2009 Kentucky High School Football Preview - Class 3A

[The Scribe]

Adair County (4-6)

Head coach: Eric Graves

2008: Lost to Union County 20-0 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Four wins may not sound like much, but for a struggling Adair County program, those wins and the school’s first playoff appearance in four years could mark the corner-turner head coach Eric Graves has been looking for.

 

The Indians recorded two winless seasons in their last three going into last year but rebounded nicely with a 4-5 regular season record.

 

Graves has several of his playmakers back in 2009, led by running backs Tim Beard (5-11, 185, Sr.), Colton Hadley (5-8, 165, Sr.), and Kanissaai Thompson (5-9, 180, Soph.).

 

Jordan Shelton (5-10, 150, Jr.) is back at receiver, but who will throw him the football may be a big question.

 

Graves is hoping last year’s taste of success will help get the Indians to the playoffs again and bring home the school’s first-ever playoff win.

 

 

Belfry (13-1)

Head coach: Phillip Haywood

2008: Lost to Breathitt County 14-12 in the state semifinals

 

Belfry was cruising along and appeared set for a state title rematch with Central until Breathitt County knocked them off one game shy of their goal.

 

The squad that takes the field this year will look slightly different from recent Phillip Haywood teams. The Pirates return experience but not as much size as followers of their power running game are accustomed to.

 

Thomas Varney (5-11, 165, Sr.) led the Pirates in rushing with 1,373 yards and 16 touchdowns last year. He again will be the feature back in a backfield that will include Chase Maynard (5-10, 155, Sr.), Timmy Lovern (5-10, 155, Sr.), and fullback Gary Runyon (6-0, 185, Sr.).

 

Three-year starter Andrew Elkins graduated at the quarterback spot, with Tyler Williams (6-0, 180, Soph.) his likely replacement.

 

The line features the return of Cameron Tackett (5-10, 195, Soph.), Chancey Cisco (6-0, 270, Sr.), and Casey Lester (5-10, 205, Jr.).

 

While the offense may look a tad different, the defense should again be a hard-hitting group that’s short on experience.

 

Runyon and Shane Blackburn (6-2, 190, Jr.) are back at linebacker, while the secondary should consist of Lovern, Morgan Bentley (6-0, 200, Jr.), and Nathan Carroll (5-9, 155, Jr.).

 

Up front, James Hardin (6-0, 290, Jr.) should replace Randy Webb at nose tackle.

 

There are a lot of questions at Belfry this year, which should be answered with their usually tough schedule that includes Ashland, Whitley County, and Johnson Central.

 

 

Breathitt County (12-3)

Head coach: Mike Holcomb

2008: Lost to Central 40-19 in the Class 3A state championship game

 

One win away from their fourth state championship last fall, the Breathitt County Bobcats expect to make another run with seven starters back on both offense and defense, led by Mr. Football candidate Channing Fugate, who recently said he would sign with the University of Tennessee.

 

Fugate, at 6-foot-3 and 230 pounds, has a rare combination of size and speed that helped him rush for 3,052 yards and 36 touchdowns last season as the Bobcats won district and regional titles before falling to Louisville Central in the state finals.

 

Jade Haddix, a 6-0, 195-pound senior, provides an effective complement for Fugate as he completed 108 of 189 passes a year ago for 1,420 yards and 17 touchdowns, while adding 625 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground.

 

Senior wingback Zack Epperson and sophomore receiver Josh Fletcher are also expected to play key roles on offense. Senior center Jeremy Moore (5-9, 200) anchors the offensive line.

 

In addition to Haddix and Fugate in the secondary, the Bobcats will be led on defense by senior linebacker Dakota Ritchie (6-3, 210) and senior tackle Jesse Roberts (6-1, 235).

 

 

Butler County (10-2)

Head coach: Robert Tuck

2008: Lost to Union County 39-13 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Butler County put together one of the best seasons in school history but a pair of ill-timed losses ended it quicker than they were hoping.

 

A triple-overtime loss to Russellville midway through the schedule knocked them to second place in the district. Then a second round loss to Union County ended their season short of expectations.

 

With 13 starters back, the Bears are looking to advance past the second round of the playoffs for the first time in school history.

 

“Our main focus this spring is making adjustments to our offense with the loss of three-year starting quarterback Jesse Stivers, top receiver Matt Hudnall, and offensive linemen Danny Brosnan and Jeff Bratcher,” head coach Robert Tuck.

 

Replacing Stivers will be Tuck’s main chore on offense, but the rest of the unit nearly returns intact.

 

Running back Jason Byrd (5-11, 80, Sr.) ran for 1,589 yards last year and is closing in on the all-time Butler County rushing record.

 

Jake Hall (6-0, 175, Sr.) also returns in the backfield, while Cody Murphy (5-10, 170, Sr.) caught 16 passes for 296 yards and four touchdowns, and Eli Embry 5-8, 160, Sr.) hauled in 26 passes for 232 yards.

 

Clay Daughtery (6-0, 180, Sr.) and Nathan Belcher (6-3, 290, Sr.) return on the offensive line.

 

Six starters are back on defense led by linebacker Clay Daughtery who set the school record with 212 tackles last year.

 

Senior Jack Daughtery was the second leading tackler on the team from the linebacker spot.

 

Belcher, Thomas Oliver (6-4, 302, Sr.), Zach Ford (5-9, 170, Soph.), and Josh Nicewinter (6-0, 160, Sr.) also return on defense for the Bears.

 

If there is a glaring strength for the Bears it’s their depth compared to past seasons. There were 16 juniors on last year’s team – all of who saw valuable minutes during the season, Tuck said. Depth at the skill positions is also better than past years.

 

 

Casey County (2-8)

Head coach: Andy Stephens

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

Andy Stephens is hoping a scheme switch last year will pay off for his young team that is looking to end a playoff drought.

 

Not only have the Rebels missed the playoffs two straight years, but they have never won a postseason game in school history.

 

Stephens switched to a wishbone attack on offense last year, and he hopes his young team will be able to execute it with a full summer of workouts behind them.

 

Last year’s roster had 26 freshmen on it, and several of them were pushed into the fire before they may have been ready. However, many are back in 2009 and projected as starters.

 

The offense returns every starter except one from a unit that averaged just two touchdowns a game.

 

“We’re banking that our offensive line will be our strength this season,” Stephens said. “We return all five starters up front. They are a year older and had a great winter in the weight room.”

 

Coming back are center Tyler Stephens (5-11, 265, Soph.), guards Kyle Fuller (5-10, 200, Jr.) and Zack Fredrick (5-9, 185, Soph.), and tackles Trent Lee (6-0, 215, Soph.) and T.J. Asbury (6-1, 200, Sr.).

 

The Rebels’ wishbone attack is led by quarterback Will Hatter (5-10, 155, Soph), with fullback Cody Roy (5-10, 180, Soph.) and running back Corey Roy (5-8, 150, Soph.) also returning to the mix.

 

The receivers are Casey Cochran (5-11, 160, Sr.) and tight end James Burton (6-3, 205, Soph.).

 

Seven starters return as part of Casey County’s 5-2 defense, led by linemen Cody Roy, Trent Lee, and Tyrus Bragg (5-9, 260, Soph.).

 

Stephens said junior Travis Crowe returns to the team after sitting out last year and will help at tackle.

 

“Our depth is better (this year), but we will still going to rely heavily on young players and inexperienced players. Our roster will have around 50 players, but 35 of those will be freshmen and sophomores,” Stephens said. “We feel like they’re turning a corner as far as realizing the commitment it takes for us to be successful.”

 

 

Central (11-3)

Head coach: Ty Scroggins

2008: Beat Breathitt County 40-19 to win the state championship

 

After winning two consecutive Class 3A state titles, Central High School and coach Ty Scroggins are back for more with another loaded deck.

 

The Yellowjackets will again face a brutal early-season schedule, but they have two of the top college prospects in the state and a ton of other talent.

 

Central should again be one of the favorites to claim the state title and some coaches think the Yellowjackets could be even better than the past two seasons.

 

The top returnee is All-State linebacker Tim Patterson.

 

The 6-foot-5, 230-pound Patterson is rated as the No. 31 outside linebacker in the nation by Rivals.com and has also helped Central to back-to-back regional titles in basketball. He’s a superior athlete with 4.65 40-yard dash speed.

 

As a junior, Patterson played on the same defense as University of Kentucky signees Ridge Wilson and Mister Cobble and still tallied 95 tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, two sacks and two interceptions.

 

Also back on defense for Central will be linebacker/end Michael Lewis and cornerbacks Stephan Robinson and Diaz Bolden.

 

Robinson, who has been ranked as high as the state’s No. 2 college prospect, is also a big-time wide receiver prospect for the major Division I colleges.

 

As a junior, Robinson made 34 catches for 644 yards and 10 TDs.

Bolden ran for 667 yards and six TDs, while quarterback Chris King is back after throwing for 898 yards and 14 TDs and rushing for 939 yards and eight more scores.

 

Sophomore Anthony Wales also had more than 400 total yards of offense and five TDs as a freshman and will be a major weapon this season.

 

Kendrick Wilson, Chris Pugh and Josh Puckett are three starting offensive linemen returning from last year’s team for the Yellowjackets.

Edited July 30, 2009 by The Scribe

[The Scribe]

East Ridge (1-9)

Head coach: Brad Allen

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

Wins have been few and far between for East Ridge in their short history, which includes no postseason appearances.

 

Head coach Brad Allen has enough experience returning against a favorable schedule to notch a few wins in 2009.

 

Bryan Casey (6-0, 180, Jr.) is back at quarterback, while Tyler Brown (5-10, 210, Sr.) and Dalton Lewis (5-7, 180, Jr.) return in the backfield.

 

The Warriors have some beef up front with Wes Ray (6-4, 320, Sr.), Keith May (5-9, 210, Sr.), and Brent Belcher (5-9, 210, Soph.).

 

Linebacker Tyler Ratliff (6-2, 200, Jr.) was impressive on defense last year.

 

 

Edmonson County (8-5)

Head coach: Kyle Pierce

2008: Lost to Union County 39-23 in the region championship game

 

Edmonson County made it to the region title game for the first time in 11 years before falling to upstart Union County.

 

Head coach Kyle Pierce comes into the 2009 season knowing his defense will be ahead of the offense thanks to eight starters back on that side of the football.

 

The base 3-4 defense is led by nose tackle Steven Caudill (6-1, 270, Sr.) who is getting several college looks.

 

Tackles Chris Reeves and Justin Watt also return on the line for the Wildcats.

 

Three of the four linebackers should help lead the offense – they are Casey Sowders, Josh Bunnell, and Cody Tennison.

 

Aaron Duncan and Jarad Bagshaw return in the secondary.

 

The big question for Edmonson County will come on the offensive side of the football as they look to replace 2,000-yard rusher Zach Vincent.

 

Matt Caudill and Dean Jenkins should join Sherman Keown in the backfield.

 

Keown is the leading returning rusher with over 250 yards last year.

 

Josh Milam appears to be the quarterback, replacing Brent Smith who accounted for over 1,600 yards of offense last year.

 

The Wildcats are in pretty good shape on the offensive line with the expected return of center Erick Espinoza, guard Timmy Jaggers, and tackle Jacob Irwin.

 

Despite the losses on offense, Pierce is hoping a revamped schedule will prepare his squad for another long playoff run.

 

The Wildcats added Class 2A Monroe County to their schedule along with Class 4A McCreary Central. Also on the slate is former Class 2A region rival Hancock County.

 

 

Elizabethtown (7-5)

Head coach: Brad Todd

2007: Lost to Central 28-14 in the second round of the playoffs

 

By JOSH CLAYWELL

The Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

 

Third-year Elizabethtown coach Brad Todd has to replace three of the most prolific athletes to ever don the old gold and purple.

 

Gone from the team are quarterback Michael Thomas and wideouts Chris Gohman and Trevor Deneen, who accounted for more than half (52 percent) of the Panthers' scoring last season.

 

Also gone is running back Cody Withers, who amassed 736 yards and 12 touch-downs on 118 carries.

 

"You can't go in there and replace Michael. He just brought so many things to the team, and it's that way at a lot of spots," Todd said. "I don't think well be at the same level. Well probably have some ups and downs. Being young and inexperienced, you'll have some of that. We're going to have high expectations."

 

Thomas threw for 3,899 yards and 47 touchdowns a year ago. He completed 61.4 percent of his passes (254-of-414), and his two favorite targets were Gohman and Deneen, who accounted for 2,795 yards and 38 TDs on 157 catches.

 

So, how do you replace that type of production?

 

"You can't. Those kids had a lot of experience and we've definitely got a ways to go to get back to that level again," Todd said.

 

That's where the 7-on-7 passing leagues come in, Todd said.

 

Elizabethtown, 10-3 last season and fell to eventual Class 3-A state champ Louisville Central in the state quarterfinals, has used the summer passing leagues to its benefit.

 

Kyle Todd, the coach's son, takes over for Thomas. Todd, whose brother Chris plays at Auburn University and guided the Panthers to the Class 2-A state championship game in 2003, saw limited action behind Thomas last season. Todd, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound sophomore, completed 18-of-21 passes for 207 yards and three TDs.

 

Brad Todd said his son is ready to take over the reigns.

 

"We'll find out. He's done well," Todd said. "Mentally he really knows the game. He just needs to get stronger to make all the throws and be able to take the punishment over the course of the season."

 

Todd has three wideouts - juniors Mitchell Henry and Clayton Patton and sophomore Devante Clarkson - ready to step in and fill the void left by Gohman and Deneen.

 

Todd said Henry, who was the team's third-leading receiver last year with 358 yards and three TDs, is the most improved player.

 

"If you had to name one person, I'd say Mitchell Henry. To be honest, he's gotten faster and he changes direction better than he did. I think he's going to be a force to be reckoned with," Todd said.

 

Clarkson will take over at Gohman's spot as the 'Y' receiver, while Patton re-places Deneen at the 'X' receiver.

 

"Devante is going to be a good receiver. He's got good speed and good hands, and he's a good route runner," Todd said. "Clayton has been with us for a few years now. He's got good height and good speed, and I think he's gotten much stronger in the weight room."

 

Todd said Kyle Todd blossomed in the passing leagues. And after sitting a year behind Thomas, the younger Todd is ready to make a name for himself at Elizabethtown.

 

"He's kind of his own self," Brad Todd said. "He's developed a good work ethic. He's doing all the right things. The only thing for him is getting bigger and stronger."

 

 

Estill County (11-2)

Head coach: Mike Jones

2008: Lost to Breathitt County 39-7 in the region championship

 

It will be almost like starting over for the Estill County Engineers, who must replace 10 starters on offense and eight on defense from a squad that only twice last year, both times to 3A state runner-up Breathitt County.

 

With standout running backs Ben Benedict and Justin Covey graduating, the Engineers will need a big season from junior wingback Kenton Roberts, who rushed for 739 yards and 10 touchdowns and had a team-high three interceptions last season.

 

Junior Cade Berryman is expected to take over at quarterback with junior fullback Tyler Cole and sophomore running backs Randy Davidson and Logan Mize taking on bigger roles. Senior guard Daniel McDonald (6-0, 225) and sophomore tackle Dalton Riddle (6-3, 300) will lead the offensive line.

 

 

Fleming County (1-9)

Head coach: Gene Peterson

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

The slide continued for the Fleming County Panthers in 2008 as they fell from 4-7 to 1-9 and missed the postseason for the first time in a decade.

 

The Panthers will shift from District 6 to District 7 in the latest realignment, getting away from 3A power Breathitt County. Fleming will compete with Lewis County, Mason County, Russell and West Carter in its new district.

 

Improving a defense that allowed over 35 points a game will be the first order of business for coach Gene Peterson.

 

If they can stay healthy, the Panthers should be better with eight starters back on both offense and defense, led by senior quarterback/cornerback Preston Dugan, senior center Steven Mitchell (6-3, 330), senior tight end/defensive end Ryan Jackson and senior wide receiver/cornerback Josh Gray, who was a second-team all-state punter last year with an average of over 45 yards per kick.

 

Junior halfback/receiver/safety Chip Clark and senior tailback Anthony Earlywine, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, are also expected to play key roles.

 

 

Garrard County (4-7)

Head coach: Mark Scenters

2008: Lost to Breathitt County 28-13 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Garrard County lost half their starters to graduation off a squad that gave eventual state finalist Breathitt County a tough first round playoff game before losing 28-13.

 

Among the five starters back are Tyler Ray, who expects to have a larger role in the multiple run and shoot offense after hauling in over 700 yards of passes last year. Who is going to throw him the football could be a question for head coach Mark Scenters, who expects Billy Abney to get a shot.

 

Zach Hounshell is back at receiver where he caught 30 passes for over 400 yards. Fred Hayes is the top returning rusher with over 600 yards.

John Shoemaker and Brandon Smith return on the line.

 

Scenters thinks his defensive unit will be stronger this year.

 

“We should have good depth in the secondary and at linebacker,” he said.

Ray (six INTs) and Hays are back in the secondary, and Hounshell and Austin Napier return at linebacker.

 

Scenters points out some of the defensive depth will come from a talented but young portion of his roster.

 

“Our seniors are talented, but 65-percent of our roster are sophomores and freshmen. We need to continue to build and increase the number of contributors on the field,” he said.

 

 

Hart County (4-6)

Head coach: Tim Nichols

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

In six-class format, four wins is usually enough to earn a postseason berth. Unfortunately for Hart County, none of those four wins came in district play, and the Raiders missed the playoffs for the third time in four seasons.

 

But with just two seniors graduated off the team, the Raiders appear poised to get back to the postseason and try and win the school’s first-ever postseason game.

 

Quarterback Austin Green (6-0, 176, Jr.) threw for 1,715 yards, but must improve his accuracy. He was picked off 24 times compared to just 12 touchdown tosses. He also added 331 rushing yards and eight touchdowns.

 

Justin Thornton (5-10, 175, Sr.) ran for 512 yards, and Hunter Smith (5-10, 200, Jr.) added 335 yards rushing.

 

Jeremiah Staples (5-10, 155, Sr.) led the receivers last year with 40 catches for 605 yards and five touchdowns. Tyler Jones (5-9, 155, Sr.) added 17 catches for 172 yards.

 

 

Henry County (6-5)

Head coach: Chris Engstrand

2008: Lost to Central 48-0 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Henry County head coach Chris Engstrand is hoping the addition of some veteran head coaches to his staff will help get the Wildcats back to the region title game, where they lost to Paducah Tilghman two years ago.

 

Former Franklin County skipper Dennis Ledford has been brought in to coach the defense, and former Beth Haven coach Matt Wright will be the linebackers coach. Beth Haven disbanded their program earlier this year.

 

Former Trinity standout Cliff Dawson is the new offensive line and strength coach.

 

“I think our offseason additions to the coaching staff have put us back in the thick of things (in the region),” Engstrand said.

 

As far as personnel go, quarterback Luke Magness is back to run the spread offense for the Wildcats after throwing for nearly 2,000 yards and 26 touchdowns. He added over 470 yards rushing.

 

Lance Timberlake also returns in the backfield after totaling nearly 250 rushing yards and could be joined by Pete Baldwin, who was injured most of last year.

 

Up front, Chris Price, who Engstrand calls a “Division-I recruit”, anchors the line. Darien Ingram and Joe Fraze also return on the line.

 

On defense, Ledford will have eight starters back from a unit that started the season with four consecutive shutouts but gave up 42 points a game in their final four games against tougher competition.

 

Linebacker Erick Butler, who missed all of last season with a back injury, is getting some Division-I looks and will be joined by Timberlake and Trevor Raisor in the Wildcat LB corps.

 

Dylan Doll, Zach Rahm, and Darien Ingram return on the line, with Magness and Hartledge back in the secondary.

 

“We were disappointed by our finish last season. Injuries were huge for us, and we had seven starters injured at one point. We have a very good bunch of kids and just have to stay healthy and have the ball bounce our way a time or two,” Engstrand said.

 

 

Jackson County (2-8)

Head coach: Arthur Carter

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

The revolving door of coaches continues at Jackson County where Arthur Carter becomes the third coach in the four-year history of the program.

 

However, there is guarded optimism for the Generals. Carter comes to Jackson County from Bell County, where he was an assistant under Dudley Hilton, who has a nice legacy of seeing former assistants turn programs around at their new stops.

 

Despite graduating a large senior class, Carter has some key components returning from last year’s 2-8 squad.

 

Quarterback Joe Campos (5-10, 160, Jr.), running back Brandon McQueen (5-8, 170, Sr.), and receiver Blake House (5-11, 190, Sr.) give Carter a nice foundation on offense.

 

Evan Lakes (5-8, 230, Sr.) and Caleb Gilbert (6-4, 220, Jr.) are expected to return on the line.

 

The Generals have won seven games in their previous three seasons, but have lost 10 straight district games – something Carter would like to change this year and see Jackson County make their first-ever playoff appearance in their short history.

 

 

Lewis County (1-9)

Head coach: Josh Hughes

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

Things didn’t go the way Josh Hughes had hoped in his first season as head coach at Lewis County. The Lions struggled on offense, averaging just eight points a game, and picked up a win over winless Bracken County in the final game of the season.

 

Hughes is hoping a large sophomore class can fill some holes and become contributors or else it will be another long season in Vanceburg.

[The Scribe]

Magoffin County (5-6)

Head coach: Chester McCoy

2008: Lost to Mason County 68-12 in the first round of the playoffs

 

As the newest member of District 6 in 3A, the Magoffin County Hornets could make noise quickly with an improving program that returns seven starters on both offense and defense from a 5-6 team that fell to Mason County in the first round of the playoffs.

 

Senior running back Jostan Helton is back after rushing for 1,265 yards and scoring 23 touchdowns last season. Junior quarterback Dylan Keeton passed for 686 yards and 10 touchdowns.

 

Senior linebacker Zach Litton, junior linebacker Montana Bailey and junior lineman Richie Gray (5-9, 220) are back to lead the defense. Bailey had 97 tackles in only nine games. Litton was not far behind with 94. Gray added 38 tackles and a pair of fumble recoveries while also playing a key role on the offensive front.

 

Mason County (9-3)

Head coach: David Buchanan

2008: Lost to Sheldon Clark 26-20 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Mason County had another solid season in 2008, winning at least seven games for the ninth time in 10 seasons.

 

In a region with teams who have the potential to put up big offensive numbers, David Buchanan is glad to have eight starters back on defense for Royals in 2009.

 

Nathan Hardin (5-10, 200, Sr.), Tobias Jackson (5-10, 220, Sr.), Alex Newton (6-0, 210, Jr.), and Tyler Black all return on the defensive line.

Josh Harris (6-0, 185, Soph.), who had 58 tackles last year, is back at linebacker along with Josh Huron (5-10, 190, Sr.) and Akeem Jackson (5-11, 185, Sr.).

 

Although the defense appears more set than the offense, the Royals do return quarterback Neal Pawsat (6-3, 200, Jr.), who completed 60-percent of his passes for 1,680 yards and 16 touchdowns last year.

 

Jordan Gilbert (5-11, 175, Jr.) caught 26 passes for 446 yards, and Malcolm Jones (6-3, 190, Sr.) and Brad Lang (6-3, 185, Sr.) should see some of Pawsat’s throws come their way.

 

Josh Harris, who averaged over 25 yards a return on special teams, and Josh Huron are expected to start in the backfield.

 

Up front, center Lee Sutton (6-0, 210, Sr.) and guard Kirk Sweeney (5-10, 210, Sr.) return.

 

Buchanan said the Royals had a strong spring both in practice and in the weight room that he hopes translates into results on the field.

 

 

McLean County (5-6)

Head coach: Marshall Enoch

2008: Lost to Edmonson County 27-10 in the first round of the playoffs

 

After consecutive 5-6 seasons, McLean County is hoping the return of some key playmakers can get them past the first round of the playoffs for the first time in 16 years.

 

Senior Spencer Phillips ran for over 1,000 yards and a dozen touchdowns last year and is the feature back in the Cougar I-formation offense.

 

Losing quarterback Miles Puckett to graduation is a tough blow, but C.J. Howard (5-10, 160, Sr.) appears to have the inside track to replace him under center.

 

Troy Woodburn (5-8, 180, Sr.) and Derrick Hardin (6-1, 170, Jr.) return in the backfield.

 

On the line, Nolan Wells (5-8, 220, Sr.), Michael Burden (6-0, 230, Sr.), and Logan Degraef (5-9, 230, Sr.) are all expected back.

 

Woodburn and Hardin make a nice linebacking tandem on defense, while Phillips and Chris Patton (5-8, 160, Jr.) are back at corner.

 

With the increased expectations this year, head coach Marshall Enoch has beefed up the McLean County schedule to include Owensboro Catholic, Allen County-Scottsville, Crittenden County, and Daviess County.

 

 

Moore (0-10)

Head coach: Robert Johnson

2008: Lost to North Oldham 56-13 in playoffs first round

 

Things don’t look too pretty again for the Mustangs.

 

Moore has lost 14 games, including several blowouts like the 76-0 loss to Central last season, and there’s not a lot of experience returning.

 

Moore coach Robert Johnson only had six seniors on last year’s roster but had to use a lot of freshmen and sophomores and those players are still inexperienced. Sophomore Mekale McKay was an all-district performer last season as a freshman.

 

It should be a long season for the Mustangs, who scored just 112 points and allowed 493 in 10 games last season.

 

 

North Oldham (10-2)

Head coach: Billy Martin

2008: Lost to Elizabethtown 42-28 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Mike Montgomery

Pegasus Sports Network

 

Three years ago, Billy Martin left Henry County High School, where he had turned the Wildcats into a district contender and took over at district rival North Oldham, which was in its fourth year of existence and had won just seven total games in its three seasons of play.

 

The school’s third head football coach, he was greeted by less than 30 players, including just two seniors – one a part-time soccer player – a middle school football field with no press box, and a tiny coaching staff.

 

After an initial 0-10 campaign in 2006, some may have doubted the wisdom of his move.

 

Any doubts are gone as the 2009 season approaches. Martin will have a large 3A roster of over 70 players at his disposal in 2009, including a dozen seniors, while starting the school’s first full season in its swank new football facilities.

 

Ten starters return from last year’s district champs, and veteran defensive coach Irv Hoffman leaves Louisville St. X to join the North staff as defensive coordinator. No longer content with a few wins, the fans’ expectations are high in Goshen.

 

That’s what back-to-back winning seasons of 8-4 in 2007 and 10-2 last year will do for you. Last year’s mark included the school’s first-ever victory over a ranked team and it’s first district title, as the ‘Stangs went undefeated against district foes Henry County, Spencer County, and Western Hills.

 

The Mustangs finished in the Bluegrasspreps top 10 in Class 3A, and ranked in the top 10 points scored, rushing yards per game, defensive points allowed, and rushing yardage allowed per game.

 

North’s season ended only when Elizabethtown scored two touchdowns in the final five minutes of their second round playoff game to eliminate a banged-up Mustang team.

 

Martin acknowledges how much easier winning has become after two successful seasons.

 

“The last two years have really helped the numbers. When I got here, kids didn’t want to play. Now, we’re looking to get 25 kids per class – or more.”

 

There are some big shoes to fill for North. Gone are thirteen seniors who experienced both the pain of a winless season and the thrill of a district title.

 

Andrew Tuller (800 yards rushing / 550 yards receiving / 17 total TDs), a four-year starter who leaves with a boatload of school records, is gone to play ball at Centre College. Tuller, an all-district and all-state performer, led the team in rushing yards, scoring, pass receptions, and interceptions last season, while playing on offense, defense, and special teams. He caught 120 career passes at NOHS in a run-dominated offense.

 

Another key loss is two-time all-district offensive lineman Spencer Gooch, who anchored the offensive line and is walking on as the long-snapper at Murray State this fall.

 

Quarterback Chase Maddox (1,096 yards passing / 241 rushing / 22 total touchdowns), fullback Matt Alward (680 yards rushing / 9 TDs), and leading receiver Tyler Geers all must be replaced, but Martin believes the 2009 team may actually be deeper at the offensive skill positions.

 

Junior Austin Peterson is the likely heir apparent at quarterback, and Martin compares him favorably to Maddox in athleticism, skill sets, and knowledge of the game.

 

Peterson will have a pair of experienced senior running backs to hand off to in the Mustangs’ wing-Toffense, Jakob Manor (384 yards / 7 TDs in 2008) and Jarrett Link (523 yards / 3 TDs). A lot of eyes will be on Zach Evans, a speedy sophomore running back hampered by injuries in 2008, who runs a 4.4 forty.

 

Martin, however, will likely employ the running-back-by-committee approach, which has been the Mustangs’ trademark under his tutelage. Juniors Chris Streicher, Austin and Cody Crawley all figure to get some carries, and all are similar “scat-back” type running backs with good speed.

 

The Mustangs don’t throw much to the wideouts, but they return two experienced receivers in seniors John Askin and Brad Norris. Both caught just four passes in 2008, but know the offense and should easily step into the role occupied by Tyler Geers, who caught 14 passes for nearly 300 yards in 2008.

 

The O-Line figures to be a team strength, and virtually every expected starter on the offensive line is drawing interest from the college coaches.

 

The center of the line features returning starters Zach LaGrange (senior, 6’3”, 290) at center and seniors Alex Miller (6’1”, 245) and Ryan Anderson (6’0”, 225) at guard. Miller is “…the strongest kid I’ve ever coached…he’s ‘army strong’ ” according to Martin.

 

Micah Watson, a 6’1” 290 pound senior, will occupy one of the two tackle spots. Watson is the “undisputed” leader of the team. The line will try to pave the way for the Mustangs to duplicate their success on the ground in 2008, when they averaged nearly 240 yards rushing per game.

 

The biggest changes will come on defense. Seven starters are gone, and new defensive coordinator Irv Hoffman will move the team to a 4-3 look with multiple fronts. Miller, LaGrange, and Watson will probably at least start the year on the defensive line as well as the offensive line, although the team may look to eventually get to the platoon system they were able to employ in ’08.

 

At linebacker, gone is Tyler Geers, who led the team in tackles the last two seasons, racking up nearly 200 total tackles during that span. Ryan Anderson - #2 in tackles in 2008 with over 90 total tackles - will likely start at middle linebacker, with Askin, sophomore Cameron Renaud (6’0” 170) and Streicher taking turns joining him. Martin expects big things from the linebacking corps; all can run the 40-yard dash in 4.5 – 4.8 seconds.

 

Many of the running backs and receivers will rotate in the defensive backfield, which projects to be one of the deepest areas of the Mustang defense.

 

Martin thinks this year’s team has the potential to be better than last year’s, but he recognizes that a critical ingredient will be how well the newcomers come together as a unit.

 

“They can be as good or better than last year’s team,” he commented. “We could have easily gone 8-4 (instead of 10-2) last year, but I thought our experience was the difference. Last year’s bunch seemed to be on the same page.”

 

 

 

Paducah Tilghman (2-8)

Head coach: Randy Wyatt

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

No team in any class was more of a disappointment last fall than Paducah Tilghman, which went from losing to state champion Central on a last-second field goal in the state semifinals to a 2-8 record and missing the playoffs altogether for the first time since 1984.

 

That’s in the past, vows second-year coach Randy Wyatt.

 

“We don’t bring it up, ever. It’s over. I don’t talk about last year to anybody,” Wyatt said. “We’ve checked the attitudes and egos at the door, and that goes from the top down.”

 

Even more disconcerting was how the wheels fell off after an encouraging beginning — Tilghman lost 22-15 to eventual Class 5A state runner-up Christian County in the season opener, losing the ball on a fourth-quarter fumble while driving for a potential game-tying touchdown.

 

And even with things as bad as they were, the Tornado was beaten in overtime by the same Union County team that reached the semifinals. A forfeit loss to Webster County (for the use an academically ineligible player) and a rash of injuries that contributed to a shocking late-season defeat at Muhlenberg South cost Tilghman a playoff berth.

 

There is plenty of uncertainty about the upcoming campaign, but again, Tilghman has the speed and athletes to make a run deep into the playoffs.

 

Junior quarterback Sam Cox (6-3,175), who shined in some late-season action, should have plenty of speedy skill-position players with which to share the ball.

 

Senior DeRay Edmonds (5-9, 200) and juniors Rashad Brown (5-7, 155) and Justin Williams (5-6, 190) will share time in the backfield, with Brown sometimes taking a direct snap in the Tornado’s “Wildcat” formation.

 

Brown can also line up as a wideout along with seniors Denzel Powell (6-2, 185) and Randy Burbage (5-11, 160) and junior Josh Forrest (6-4, 205), who is one of the state’s top basketball players and was coaxed into coming out for the football squad for the first time since middle school.

Wyatt is high on Cox, who he said is the leader the offense needs. “The other kids gravitate to him,” Wyatt said, “and he can make all the throws. He kind of reminds me of Hunter (Cantwell) with his personality and work ethic.

 

“We should be able to really extend the defense all over the field. You can’t key on one back or one receiver. We’ve got five guys that can make big plays if we get them the ball in open space.”

 

The offensive line, hard hit by injuries late last season, was also hit hard by graduation. Senior tackle Kirk Sanderson (6-4, 285) is recovered from a knee injury that sidelined him for the last few games, but he is the only real experienced returnee. Mason Malone (5-11, 255) gets the nod at center with John Meza (6-0, 225) and DeShawn Jackson (6-2, 250) expected to contribute.

 

“The rest of those guys are juniors and sophomores, but they’re tough, hardnosed players,” Wyatt said. “They have the potential to be pretty good.”

 

Defensively, the anticipated return of senior linebacker Jim Hank (5-10, 190) could be a big boost. Hank, a starter since the first game of his freshman year, missed most of last season because of ankle and hip injuries, although Wyatt said Hank is still battling some hip issues.

Junior Charles Cooper (5-7, 185) is back at linebacker, and senior Brandon Hamilton (6-1, 220) will start there after spending last season as a tackle.

 

Up front, Meza could be at nose tackle with Edmonds and Jackson at end.

Kris Jackson (5-11, 170) started at cornerback as a sophomore but didn’t play last season, and Wyatt said he could be used as a “Wildcat” quarterback. Powell and sophomore J.D. Harmon (6-0, 175) return at safety.

 

Tilghman imported veteran defensive coordinator Larry Shanks from Graves County in what amounted to a coaching swap — former coordinator Brad Lawson, who came from Mayfield last year, relocated to Graves.

 

“Our motto is ‘Keep it Simple, Stupid.’ I think last year, we were thinking too much on defense and we didn’t let our athletes be athletes,” Wyatt said. “I think the new defense is starting to click with these guys.”

 

 

Pike County Central (4-7)

Head coach: John Chapman

2008: Lost to Russell 41-14 in the first round of the playoffs

 

John Chapman takes over a Pike County Central team that has won four games each of the past two seasons. And for Chapman, the cupboard isn’t bare with the departure of just three seniors from last year’s squad.

 

That has the Hawks looking for an improved record and the school’s first playoff win.

 

Aaron McGuire (5-10, 175, Sr.) returns at quarterback and should have the services of running backs Michael Chandler (5-9, 155, Soph.), Justin Smith (5-10, 220, Soph.), and Cody Meade (5-10, 180, Sr.).

 

Brandon Boyd (5-8, 145, Sr.) and Jordan Taylor (6-0, 160, Sr.) should make good throwing targets for McGuire and are part of a senior class that could number as many as 15.

 

 

Powell County (6-5)

Head coach: Tony Burchett

2008: Lost to Taylor County 29-24 in the first round of the playoffs

 

After a couple of seasons of steady improvement, the Powell County Pirates will go through another transition at the top as Mike Whitaker left to join the coaching staff at Letcher Central.

 

The Pirates doubled their win total a year ago at 6-5 and could build on that momentum if junior tailback Jesse Rose continues to improve after rushing for 1,072 yards last fall, but if Rose leaves as rumored the Powell offense will have to rebuild.

 

The Powell offense will also feature junior fullback Kevin Wasson and senior guard Quinton VanCleve. Seven starters return on defense, led by Rose and Wasson at linebacker, junior Steve Faulkner at end and senior cornerback Tim Hardy.

[The Scribe]

Russell (7-5)

Head coach: Ivan McGlone

2008: Lost to Belfry 42-0 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Russell failed to reach double digits in wins for the first time since 2001 and was unceremoniously bounced from the second round of the playoffs for the first time since that same ’01 season.

 

The same could happen again in 2009, but you had better get your licks in against an inexperienced Red Devil team early in the season. Veteran Ivan McGlone has shown in the past that inexperience isn’t an issue with Russell teams come postseason time.

 

But the Devils do have some voids to fill on both sides of the football.

Will Rice (5-9, 165, Sr.) ran for over 500 yards last year and is a three-year starters. He should get help in the backfield from converted lineman Travis Jones (6-1, 210, Sr.) and Jesse White (5-10, 175, Sr.).

 

Brandon Sparks (6-0, 175, Sr.) appears to be the favorite to take over the quarterback job from A.J. Cordle, who graduated with over 1,000 yards of total offense.

 

Three-year starter Kamron Smith (5-8, 205, Sr.) anchors an inexperienced offensive line that has the potential to be good by season’s end.

 

Defensively, McGlone knows his squad has to improve of they are to be a postseason factor this year. In their seven wins, Russell gave up 12 points a game. They allowed 33 a game in their five losses.

 

Rice, Smith, and Steven Stapleton (5-10, 180, Sr.) headline a linebacking corps that will be called upon to be playmakers throughout the season.

 

Spencer Hutchinson (6-0, 210, Sr.) and Travis Jones return on the defensive line, while Max Rogers (6-1, 180, Sr.) leads the secondary.

 

Russell also took a hit in the special teams area with the graduation of kicker Jason Dolly.

 

Tradition rich programs like Russell always seem to find a way to reload instead of rebuild. However, that theory may be put to the test in a region expected to again be strong.

 

 

Russellville (9-3)

Head coach: John Myers

2008: Lost to Edmonson County 35-13 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Russellville was hoping the move to Class 3A would result in less travel and longer postseason runs. So far, the travel part has been true.

 

After advancing to the region title game in 2007, the Panthers were dropped in the second round by an upstart Edmonson County team they had beaten handily earlier in the year.

 

With that loss still stinging the Russellville coaches and fans, head coach John Myers is hoping a beefed up schedule will pay dividends in the postseason.

 

The Panthers have non-district games with larger schools Franklin-Simpson, Warren Central, Warren East, Marshall County, and Hopkinsville.

 

“It’s a much more difficult schedule, but we return four players on the line and 80-percent of our total offensive output from last year,” Myers said.

 

In all, 14 starters – seven on each side of the football – are back for the Panthers.

 

D.J. Quarles (6-0, 175, Jr.) took over the starting quarterback job and didn’t relinquish it, leading the option-oriented attack to over 31 points a game.

 

Damien Elam (5-9, 175, Jr.) and Devonta Bryant (6-0, 170, Jr.) return in the backfield and highlight a small but talented junior class.

 

The four starters back on the offensive line are tight end Dudley Bouldin (5-9, 200, Sr.), guard Darrin Murphy (6-1, 190, Sr.), tackle Josh Cates 6-1, 210, Sr.), and center Alex Hardin (5-11, 225, Sr.). Josh Vysa (5-8, 175, Jr.) could also see some time on the line.

 

Defensively, the Panthers were hit hard by graduation at the linebacker position, which is a key component of Myers’ 4-4 scheme.

 

Bouldin is the lone starter back, but Myers is looking to Layton Bush (6-0, 160, Jr.) and junior Travez Hampton to step into the linebacker position and contribute immediately.

 

The Panthers are solid in the secondary where starters Elam, Bryant, and Victor Hampton (6-0, 140, Jr.) all return.

 

Murphy and Kevin Temple (5-10, 170, Jr.) are back at defensive end, and Cates starts on the defensive line.

 

Because Russellville is a 1A-size school playing up in class, the health of the team will be the main key to their success.

 

The Panthers will celebrate their 70th season at historic Rhea Stadium, which is undergoing some cosmetic improvements. Myers is also excited about the construction of a new multi-purpose/multi-sport indoor practice facility with locker rooms.

 

 

Shawnee (6-5)

Head coach: Ravon Patterson

2008: Lost 40-6 to Central in second round of the playoffs

 

Ravon Patterson has completed one huge step - he’s returning.

 

After going through five coaches in four years, Patterson is back for his second season to try and give the Golden Eagles some consistency.

 

Shawnee had won just 13 games since the 2000 season and claimed almost half of that total in Patterson’s first season – so there is some hope.

 

Lineman Michael Jaggers was an all-district performer as a junior and is back as a leader on both sides of the ball.

 

 

Sheldon Clark (10-3)

Head coach: Shawn Hager

2008: Lost to Belfry 35-8 in the region championship game

 

In order to make a long postseason run, Sheldon Clark knows they have to get past the likes of Belfry, who has ended the Cardinals’ season three of the last four years.

 

Head coach Shawn Hager may have just enough coming back to end that streak and advance past the Pirates in the postseason for the first time in 11 years.

 

Despite the loss of 1,000-yard rusher Ryan Kelly, the Cardinals have several playmakers returning on the offensive side of the football.

 

Matt Slone (5-6, 150, Sr.), and Avery Ray (5-7, 165, Jr.) will be expected to fill some of the void left by Kelly, while Kristian Skyles 5-7, 160, Soph.) and Mikie Moore (6-1, 160, Jr.) will likely see plenty of time in the backfield.

 

Quarterback Austin Stepp (5-11, 180, Jr.) returns to run the offense, and while the Cardinals don’t throw a lot, Casey Delong (5-11, 165, Sr.) makes a good target.

 

Defensively, Sheldon Clark appears to be in good shape with the return of Jeffrey Mullins (5-9, 175, Sr.) and B.J. Jarrell (5-10, 160, Soph.) at linebacker, and Channing Smith (6-1, 250, Jr.), Bradley Stafford (5-9, 200, Sr.), and Chris Slone (6-3, 250, Jr.) on the line.

 

Cody Slone (5-11, 165, Sr.) and Kelly Hayes (5-9, 170, Jr.) return in the secondary.

 

With Belfry expecting to rebuild some this year, 2009 could be the year Sheldon Clark finally gets past their postseason nemesis.

 

 

Somerset (5-6)

Head coach: Jay Cobb

2008: Lost to Estill County 31-6 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Losing records at Somerset are rare. After last year’s 5-6 campaign, the Briar Jumpers will be looking to avoid consecutive losing seasons for the first time since 1996.

 

Given what Jay Cobb has returning in 2009, look for the Jumpers to turn things around this year.

 

The only real question they have is at quarterback, where Eric Manning (5-11, 165, Jr.) appears to have the inside track over junior Taylor Spears.

 

The top three rushers for Somerset return, led by Derrick Jackson (5-10, 180, Jr.), who ran for 761 yards in nine games.

 

Thomas Boyle (5-9, 190, Sr.) added 334 yards in six games, and senior Josh Troxtle added 303 yards.

 

The Briar Jumpers also return their top three receivers from last year – junior J.P. Henderlight (29 rec., 567 yards), sophomore Strom Wilson (31 rec., 505 yards), and senior Hunter Nelson (34 rec., 455 yards).

 

It’s up front where Somerset may have an advantage with the return of four starters.

 

Junior Clayton Stringer, center Jake Williams (5-9, 175, Sr.), Andrew Salmons (6-0, 265, Sr.), and senior Billy Roberts give Somerset an experienced line to help break in their inexperienced quarterback.

 

If the Jumpers are to make another long run in the postseason, they will have to improve a defense that gave up over 30 points a game in six of their 11 games last year.

 

Ottie and Eric Manning are back in the secondary, while Jake Anderson anchors the defensive line.

 

Boyle and Derrick Jackson are the linebackers.

 

The defensive side of the football will determine Somerset’s fate this year and could help set up the Jumper offense for a big season.

 

 

Spencer County (4-7)

Head coach: Wes Napper

2008: Lost to Shawnee 32-19 in the first round of the playoffs

 

In starting their fifth season of varsity football, Spencer County has shown steady improvement and reached new milestones each year. Last season, the Bears hosted a playoff game for the first time, losing to Shawnee in the first round.

 

A new coach and a ton of returning starters have the Spencer County faithful expecting new milestones in 2009.

 

Wes Napper takes over as head coach and welcomes back nearly 20 starters from last year’s 4-7 squad.

 

Junior Erico Smith makes the move to quarterback from running back, where he rushed for 645 yards and seven touchdowns. Napper expects to use Smith in a multidimensional offensive scheme based on the option.

 

Senior Cameron Smith ran for 1,524 yards and 11 touchdowns last year and will again be the centerpiece of the Bears offense.

 

Junior Kevin Hume is the fullback, and senior Steven Ashley starts at receiver.

 

Up front, Spencer County is hoping their experienced line will mean big offensive numbers for the playmakers. Jeremiah Smith (6-2, 250, Sr.), Jacob Snider (5-11, 200, Sr.), David Cross (5-11, 200, Sr.), Andy Christian (6-2, 280, Jr.), Josh Castor (6-3, 235, Jr.), Austin Cook (6-2, 270, Jr.) give the Bears a formidable front six.

 

For Spencer County to make any noise in the postseason, they will need a strong season from their defensive unit.

 

Cameron and Erico Smith, Ashley, and Tyler Calvert are back in the secondary, but Napper says the linebackers must develop quicker than any other position.

 

David Cross is the lone returning starter at linebacker. Kevin Hume and Michael Wessels will join Cross at linebacker.

 

Napper, a Spencer County native, said he is ready to roll up his sleeves and turn the Bears program into a constant winner, despite their young age.

 

As far as I can remember, Spencer County has always been put on the back burner in the topic of statewide athletics. I want to change that perception,” he said. “I have learned a great deal from the community, and now I want to give back by building a program that the community can be proud of.”

 

 

Taylor County (8-4)

Head coach: Rodney Turpin

2008: Lost to Estill County 73-28 in the second round of the playoffs

 

By JOSH CLAYWELL

The Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

 

With just three starters back on offense, the Taylor County Cardinals are going through some major changes.

 

The Cardinals, coming off an 8-4 campaign, must replace their top running back, top wide receiver and top offensive linemen, but coach Rodney Turpin is still optimistic.

 

"Losing offensive weapons such as tailback Chris Thomas and wide receiver Leonard Macon will be hard to replace," Turpin said. "And the defense lost the entire secondary."

 

Thomas led the Cardinals with 1,313 yard and 14 touchdowns on the ground, while Macon was the team's leading receiver with 986 yards and 16 TDs on 50 catches.

 

Macon was also Taylor County's second-leading rusher, amassing 648 yards and six scores on 56 carries.

 

The good news for the Cardinals? They return quarterback Lance Turpin, a

6-foot-2, 210-pound senior who threw for 2,067 yards and 32 TDs last

season.

 

Turpin, who completed 50 percent of his passes (114-for-228) and was only picked off 12 times, will feel a lot like University of Florida quarterback Tim Tebow as the Cardinals have changed to an offense which Rodney Turpin says will better suit his team.

 

"We return Lance Turpin, which will give way to an offense a lot like that of Florida," Turpin said.

 

On defense, the Cardinals return six starters from a squad that allowed more than 18 points in every game.

 

Senior middle linebacker Andy Hunt (6-0, 220) is back to anchor the defense, which will run out of the 5-3 and 4-4 schemes.

 

 

Union County (8-6)

Head coach: Steve Carter

2008: Lost to Central 49-21 in the Class 3A semifinals

 

Union County got hot at the right time, took advantage of some 3A powers failing to live up to their promise, and used a strong running attack to advance to the state semifinals for the first time in over 30 years.

 

Nick Eckert left the program to return to Indiana for an assistant coach job there. Former Crittenden County assistant coach Steve Carter inherits a team that has several of their offensive stars returning.

 

Speedy junior Devin Foster rushed for over 1,000 yards last year and will be the main cog in the Braves offense.

 

Senior Justin Price joins Foster in the backfield behind senior quarterback Jordan Robison, who steadily improved as a game manager as the season progressed.

 

Junior Nathan Belt is among the starters returning on the line and is part of a large and talented junior class.

 

 

 

Wayne County (7-4)

Head coach: Shawn Thompson

2008: Lost to Harlan County 38-21 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Wayne County has righted the ship, having won seven games in four straight seasons. That total seems attainable in 2009 with Shawn Thompson welcoming back several starters from last year’s team.

 

Senior D.J. Hall ran for 1,286 yards and a team-high 20 touchdowns, while senior quarterback Zack Stevenson passed for 1,300 yards and added 600 more rushing.

 

Senior running back Tyree Jackson and senior receiver Eric Rhule also figure to factor in the Cardinal offense.

 

Wayne County has several starters back on defense and should be stout up front with the return of linemen Jacob Gregory, Jon Coffey, and Tyler Pace.

 

 

Webster County (3-7)

Head coach: Matt Kettler

2008: Lost to Russellville 41-6 in the first round of the playoffs

 

At 25, Matt Kettler becomes one of the youngest head coaches in the state.

 

He also steps into one of the most difficult coaching jobs in the state.

 

Webster County hasn’t had a winning season since 2002. They finished last season with 22 players. A field house that saw construction begin six years ago still isn’t finished. And Webster County’s school district does not provide transportation to any sporting event, citing financial issues.

 

Yet Kettler believes the Webster County program can compete on a regular basis.

 

Senior Trevor Warren moved to the backfield midway through last year and became Webster’s main offensive threat running the football.

 

But the abundance of young players on the roster could mean another long season in Dixon for the first year head coach.

 

 

West Carter (4-7)

Head coach: Kevin Brown

2008: Lost to Belfry 48-27 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Injuries forced West Carter to use a running back by committee last year. The good news for 2009 is the experience each brings to the table.

 

Juniors Danny Kline and Josh Cundiff and sophomores MacKenzie McGlone and Caleb Whitt saw most of the carries last year and should compete for the football.

 

Either Harison Bond or Josh Ackerman will be under center for the Comets, who also welcome back split ends Tyler Price and Cody Stamper.

 

 

Western Hills (6-5)

Head coach: Don Miller

2008: Lost to Elizabethtown 62-23 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Western Hills managed their first winning season in eight years despite a blowout loss in the first round of the playoffs. With just four seniors lost to graduation, the Wolverines are expecting greater things in 2009.

 

Quarterback Dylan Curry (6-6, 220, Sr.) has committed to Louisville after throwing for 1,562 yards and 10 touchdowns last year. The loss of his top two receivers shouldn’t hurt Curry’s numbers.

 

Justin Wright (5-11, 190, Sr.) caught 29 passes out of the backfield for 214 yards. He also had a team-high 611 rushing yards and seven touchdowns.

 

Tight end Cody Hecker (6-0, 215, Sr.) added 21 catches for 227 yards.

Up front, Bubba Weber (6-4, 290, Sr.) and William Riddle (6-3, 286, Sr.) are two of the four starters returning.

 

After giving up 63 points in their playoff loss to Elizabethtown, it’s obvious the Wolverines need to tighten down on defense. The return of eight starters should help with the improvement.

 

Linebacker Arie Slone (6-2, 210, Jr.) is the leading returning tackler for Western Hills, who could be one of the surprise teams in Class 3A this year.

Edited July 30, 2009 by The Scribe