2009 Kentucky High School Football Preview - Class 1A

[The Scribe]

Allen Central (7-4)

Head coach – Jeremy Hall

2008 – Lost to Harlan 46-6 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Coming off perhaps the best season in school history, which included a 7-4 record and third-place finish in District 8, the Allen Central Rebels have lofty expectations for 2009.

 

Senior running backs Logan and Hunter Crowder return after rushing for 1,408 and 1,191 yards, respectively, a year ago with a combined 31 touchdowns. Senior halfback Justin Jackson added 611 yards rushing and six touchdowns. Senior Chris Stumbo completed three of 14 passes for 67 yards in a reserve role at quarterback last year.

 

Stumbo led the team in catches with 23, yardage with 282 and touchdown receptions with seven. Hunter Crowder added 11 catches for 207 yards. Jackson had eight catches for 199 yards and junior Mickey Parsons contributed six catches for 144 yards.

 

Top defenders returning include the Crowder twins and Cory Conn at linebacker, along with senior lineman Blake Salisbury and Stumbo at cornerback. Logan Crowder had six interceptions, and Hunter Crowder led in solo tackles with 81.

 

 

Ballard Memorial (6-6)

Head coach – Chris Cooper

2008 – Lost to Crittenden County 48-7 in the second round of the playoffs

 

The incentive for Ballard Memorial in 2009 is simple. Finish first or second in the district to avoid a ridiculous first round travel date in the playoffs.

 

Last year, the Bombers were able to overcome bus lag and knock off Caverna in the first round before falling to state semifinalist Crittenden County.

 

Head coach Chris Cooper saw the Bombers win six games for the first time since 2002. Despite losing several key skill players, Ballard Memorial returns most of their line and defense ahead of quarterback Alex Mallory.

 

The 6-3 Mallory threw for 1,685 yards and 18 touchdowns last year, but will see some new faces in the backfield behind him.

 

However, one familiar face will be his brother, fullback Will Mallory who rushed for 263 yards and three scores last year.

 

Tyler Gough (5-10, 190, Jr.) and Jimmy Hoskins (6-1, 175, Soph.) expect to have bigger roles in the offense this year.

 

Chris Jones (5-6, 155, Jr.) and Jake Wildharber (5-8, 160, Soph.) could also see time at receiver.

 

The Bombers’ strength should be up front where they return several starters on both sides of the football.

 

Cody Hoskins (6-4, 255, Sr.) anchors a line that is expected to include Ryan Buchanan (6-5, 230, Sr.), and Chris Bodell (6-2, 200, Sr.).

 

Buchanan is also the team’s leading tackler at linebacker along with Gough, who are two of seven starters back on defense.

 

As a result, Ballard Memorial has beefed up their schedule to include Lone Oak, Union County, Trigg County, and Webster County.

 

Cooper will have to sit out the opener with Lone Oak because of a KHSAA suspension for playing too many scrimmages last year.

 

 

 

Beechwood (14-1)

Head coach: Noel Rash

2008: Beat Hazard 14-7 in the Class 1A state championship game

 

After winning consecutive state titles, it’s possible that Beechwood could field a team in 2009 faster and more athletic than their predecessors.

 

While the Tigers will have a small senior class, head coach Noel Rash is expecting big things from a large and talented junior class.

 

Offensively, the Tigers boast multiple running backs that can split the workload in the backfield.

 

Joe Colosimo (6-0, 190, Sr.) ran for nearly 600 yards last year and scored 13 touchdowns.

 

Corey Schuler (5-10, 165, Sr.) and Cory Crane (5-11, 170, Jr.) should also see some carries in the backfield.

 

The offensive line is anchored by tackles Jake Maricle (6-0, 240, Sr.) and Josh Genal (6-2, 205, Jr.), and guard Austin Harvey.

 

Quarterback Matt Rigdon (6-2, 175, Sr.) was solid under center for the Tigers last year, throwing for over 1,300 yards and adding more than 800 on the ground.

 

However, Rigdon will have to find a few new targets to throw to with the graduation of their top two pass catchers from last year.

 

Beechwood’s defense should again be among the strongest in the state with the return of five starters.

 

Colosimo and Michael Porco return at linebacker, and Zac Larimore and junior Josh Genal give the Tigers bookends on the line.

 

Kody Klug (6 INTs) and Corey Schuler will be the leaders in the secondary.

 

After boasting a large line in 2007 and strong defense in 2008, Beechwood’s athletes should again carry them to the title game with little resistance.

 

 

Bellevue (7-4)

Head coach: Dave Eckstein

2008: Lost to Gallatin County 33-28 in the first round of the playoffs

 

By Kevin Bundy

 

With a solid group of skill players returning, Bellevue coach Dave Eckstein plans on having the Bellevue Tigers right in the mix of one of the toughest class A district's in the state in 2009.

 

The Tigers finished second in the district last season, ending a 7-4 campaign with a loss to Gallatin County High School in the second round of the state playoffs. Eckstein hopes Bellevue's early season schedule, beginning Aug. 29 against Holy Cross, will again help his team later in the season.

 

"Our early season schedule is challenging," he said. "We hope to use those games to prepare us to be right in the mix, like always. Our goal is always to beat Beechwood and they are always at the top of the district. We know they are never down and when they get beat, they bounce back very quickly. But, that's our goal, and this may be the year."

 

Senior running back Ricky Buckler, who rushed for more than 1,400 yards a year ago, is one of the reasons Eckstein is optimistic. Buckler leads a group of talented skill players who also include quarterback Richard Wills and wide receiver Nick Evans.

 

"A big key for us is to continue to develop the passing game," Eckstein said. "Obviously, we're going to run the ball. But, if we can throw it and catch it, it makes us much more dangerous. We've down it well at times, we just have to become more consistent."

 

Tad Dougherty and Rodney Brock are among other players, Eckstein expects big things from this season. Dougherty leads an offensive line that Eckstein said would be bigger and stronger than a year ago, though it will lack depth.

 

"We're bigger and stronger, and we have good team speed," he said. "We have lots of kids that can run, which reminds me of my first team here."

 

Eckstein said the kicking game remains a concern as August approaches, and he hopes to improve his team’s pressure on the passer. He said the Tigers will be able to play good pass defense, but are still looking to gain a better pass rush heading into the opener. He expects the non-district schedule to help his team solve it's problem areas heading into October. The Tigers play Newport, Holmes, and Scott before opening district play as well.

 

"For a school with 115 boys, that's a very challenging schedule," he said. "But it should be dividends in terms of experience gained."

 

 

Berea (8-2)

Head coach: Keenan McWhorter

2008: Did not compete in district play

 

After an impressive non-district performance last year that produced eight wins in 10 games, the Berea Pirates move into district competition and expect to challenge for a playoff berth in their first season.

 

Senior quarterback Bo Brewer and senior wide receiver Jeremy Hamilton are among the few holdovers from last year’s starting lineup.

 

Senior quarterback Bo Brewer (6-4, 190) and receivers Jeremy Hamilton (6-0, 170, Sr.) and Joseph Parker (5-10, 150, Sr.) are expected to be the playmakers on offense.

 

Senior tailback Auto Becker and sophomore fullback Curtis Payne are also expected to play key roles in the Pirates’ offense.

 

Junior tackle Jordan Poff (5-11, 255) and safety Parker will be leaders on defense, along with Hamilton at safety and Brewer, Becker and Payne at the linebacker spots.

 

This year, head coach Kenan McWhorter is hoping the 17 freshman and sophomores from last year develop in time to help another talented senior class.

 

 

 

Beth Haven (3-7)

2008: Did not make the playoffs

 

The school board at Beth Haven voted during the spring to permanently drop football at the school. Beth Haven won the National Association of Christian Athletes Division II eight-man national championship in 2006.

 

The Bearcats had since moved up to 11-man and played in the KHSAA. Only 16 players had signed up for the 2009 season.

 

Beth Haven was 35-65 since starting their program in 1996, including a 3-7 mark last year.

 

 

Bethlehem (3-8)

Head Coach – Stan Torzewski

2008 – Lost 44-13 at Mayfield in first round of Class 1A playoffs

 

Peter W. Zubaty

The Kentucky Standard

 

Bethlehem couldn’t have picked a worse time than 2006 to have the best season in school history. Coming off an 11-2 campaign that saw the Eagles advance to the Class 1A Region 2 championship, the tiny school in Bardstown struggled to line up like-sized opponents for the 2007-08 schedule cycle.

 

Bethlehem fought through the rugged schedule in 2007, as a large turnout of players made it easier to weather the numbers game against larger schools. It caught up to Torzewski and Co. in 2008, however, as a rash of injuries suffered in the first two weeks at Elizabethtown and Garrard County led to a forfeit — or play with only 16 players — against powerhouse Corbin in week three.

 

The Eagles figure to be better for the experience in 2009, and could be poised for a breakout year against a more manageable schedule.

 

Junior Clay Owens, when available, was a difference-maker at running back. He takes over at quarterback this season, allowing Dalton Reed to move out to the wing to make plays.

 

Luke Wimpsett was saddled with a bum ankle all year last season, but is healthy now, and looking to make up for lost time. He’ll get plenty of carries from the fullback spot. Casey Robinson and Austin Downs give Torzewski two more weapons out of the backfield.

 

Line play figures to be a strong suit for the Eagles. Joe Peake, Michael Kelley, Dylan Hughes and Matt Clark have all drawn multiple starts. Peake and Kelley have a knack for sacking the quarterback.

 

Owens, Wimpsett, Reed and Robinson make up a strong defensive backfield, but the Eagles figure to be weakest at linebacker, where stalwarts such as Owens, Jacob Whitener and Nick Galloway have graduated. Downs is the most experienced returning linebacker.

 

 

 

Betsy Layne (3-8)

Head coach: Jonathon Parsons

2008 – Lost to Hazard 49-6 in the first round of the playoffs

 

After many years of serving as a doormat for eastern Kentucky opponents, the Betsy Layne Bobcats are a team on the rise.

 

Eight starters return on both offense and defense for the Bobcats, who expect to continue improving in 2009 after tripling their win total from the previous season last fall with a 3-8 mark.

 

Returning starters on offense include quarterback Nathan Martin, halfbacks Casey Adkins and Dylan Maldonado, wide receivers Korey Jarrell, Brandon Jarrell and Austin Hall and linemen Jared Robinson and Charlie Lewis.

 

Starters back on defense include Korey Jarrell, Brandon Larrell and Landon Tackett in the secondary, Adkins and Maldonado at the ends, Hall and Robinson at linebacker and Cody Gross on the line.

 

Gregg Neely, Steven Wright and Ryan Lewis are expected to provide a boost this year on the offensive and defensive lines. Wright could also handle kicking duties.

 

“We return 100 percent of the scoring offense, so we will rely on the offense to put the points on the board,” coach Jonathan Parsons said. “The biggest weakness we have will be being young. We return a lot of underclassmen that helped us out last year. Dylan Maldonado rushed for over 1,000 yards last year as a sophomore and Casey Adkins was on pace until an injury, so we are going to capitalize on their running attack and Branston Jarrell/Korey Jarrell bringing in passes from Nathan Martin.

 

“A bright spot on defense is Austin Hall at linebacker. He was just a freshman that turned a game around. Jared Robinson, a talented player, comes back to play linebacker and defensive end depending on teams we play.”

 

Parsons likes the progress the Bobcats have made.

 

“Each year, the coaching staff gathers and makes goals,” he said. “Last year we wanted to make the playoffs. The program is in the right direction, but the coaching staff will never be pleased with the program. We all played here and will put a lot of work into the program.”

 

Competing in a district with Pikeville and Paintsville, the Bobcats aren’t ranked among the favorites but could improve on last year’s fourth-place finish in District 8.

 

“The main goal is to stay competitive try to pull off some wins and try to accomplish our goals for the season,” Parsons said. “We look at each game individually. We won’t look ahead. Every game matters.”

 

The Bobcats added Bishop Brossart and Magoffin County to their schedule.

 

“Both teams picked up are good teams, and we want to be competitive with them. Bishop Brossart a fairly new program is getting better each year. Magoffin County has a great head coach and will be well prepared for the season,” Parsons said.

 

The Bobcats have added a full junior varsity schedule and the staff added two coaches, both signs of an improving program.

 

The coaching staff includes: Adam Collins as defensive coordinator; Justin Akers as special teams coordinator/offensive line coach; Bobby Wise as running backs coach and Billy Spencer as defensive line coach

 

“All of these coaches put in a great deal of time with the team and it is greatly appreciated,” Parsons said.

 

 

Bishop Brossart (0-10)

Head coach: Matt Reinhart

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

By Kevin Bundy

 

Improvement didn't result in Bishop Brossart High School's first varsity football victory last season, but it also didn't curb the enthusiasm of second-year coach Matt Reinhart heading into 2009.

 

"I put a lot of pressure on myself last year to get that first win and the players put a lot of pressure on themselves as well," Reinhart said. "What we as a coaching staff realized after the season was we were putting the caboose ahead of the engine. Our general outlook is to build the program the right way."

 

The implementation of a middle school football program this season won't yield immediate dividends, but Reinhart thinks improvements made in the off-season conditioning program and weight room will, as the team prepares to open the season at Betsy Layne.

 

"We didn't get to have a weight program prior to last season, we've improved our team speed and strength this offseason," he said. "We've really worked hard in (the weight room). We lifted four days a week because we think we have to work harder than everybody else to catch up. If other schools lift three days a week, we wanted to lift four."

 

Reinhart expects Chris Bowman to become a force on the ground this season after moving from offensive lineman to fullback. Bowman will also play outside linebacker for the Mustangs, where he'll be joined by Kyle Rinehart and John Schack. Spencer Groeschen and David Lunn will anchor the defensive line.

 

"We should be hard to run against, Rinehart said. "Well disguise what we do defensively, but if we stay healthy we think we can force teams to change their game plans."

 

Staying healthy was something the Mustangs couldn't do in 2008. As a result, a lot of players received varsity experience, Rinehart hopes that will pay off this season. Brossart returns 19 starters, but many are still underclassmen.

 

"We do have a lot of experience returning, but that experience is still young," he said. "Instead of being freshman and sophomores, we're sophomores and juniors, but we're still young."

 

 

Bracken County (0-10)

Head coach: Andrew McIntosh

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

Former Pendleton County assistant Andrew McIntosh takes over a Bracken County team looking for some stability.

 

The Polar Bears didn’t win a game last year and saw head coach Chuck Faust resign midway through the season.

 

With their coaching situation apparently stable, Bracken County will look to make a dent in a tough district.

 

Last year’s roster had 23 freshman and sophomores, and one of McIntosh’s main goals will be to develop the young talent and keep them on the field.

 

Quarterback Matt Purcell (6-2, 180, Soph.) has some skill people to work with in running backs Bryan Denton (5-8, 160, Soph.) and Kenny Baker (5-8, 170, Jr.) and receiver Kaine Brumley (5-8, 160, Jr.).

 

There were no seniors on last year’s roster.

Edited August 5, 2009 by The Scribe

[The Scribe]

Campbellsville (4-7)

Head coach: Jason Chappell

2008: Lost to Fairview 24-13 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Jason Chappell takes over at Campbellsville after three years at South Laurel and inherits a team that brings back seven starters on both offense and defense. The Eagles were 4-7 last year and fell to Fairview in the first round of the playoffs.

 

Campbellsville is led by 6-3, 245-pound senior tailback Thomas Downs, who is being looked at by several Division I schools. Downs rushed for 925 yards on 114 carries a year ago and scored seven touchdowns.

 

Aaron Schwoebel, a 6-foot-7 senior quarterback, passed for 809 yards and eight touchdowns a year ago. Senior wing back Bryton Taylor had 230 yards rushing and 118 yards receiving last season.

 

The Campbellsville line will feature senior tackle Donovan Pittman (6-1, 220) and senior center Clay Hooper (6-0, 235).

 

 

Caverna (5-6)

Head coach: Nick Stephens

2008: Lost to Ballard Memorial 48-15 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Caverna’s five wins were the most in four years, and several starters back in key places has the Colonels aiming for their first winning season since 2004.

 

Brett Davidson (6-1, 170, Sr.) and Jordan Rice (5-8, 165, Jr.) split time at quarterback last year, with Davidson a threat to play anywhere on the field.

 

Sophomore Dearrick Lindsey (5-11, 190) rushed for 646 yards and six touchdowns last year.

 

Caverna has more starters back on the defensive side of the football where they allowed two touchdowns or less in six of their 11 games.

 

A.J. Denton (5-9, 225, Sr.), Eric Denton (5-11, 255, Soph.), and Kelly Gibson (5-10, 250, Jr.) solidify a defensive line that allowed just 107 rushing yards a game last year.

 

Davidson is back in the secondary where he picked off five passes last year and is joined by Patrick Bennett (6-0, 160, Sr.).

 

Forrest Hurd (5-8, 160, Soph.) had a breakout season at linebacker as a freshman but will be surrounded by new faces in the middle this year.

 

 

Clinton County (1-10)

Head coach: Jamie Miller

2008: Lost to Raceland 61-12 in the first round of the playoffs

 

In just their fourth season of existence, Clinton County will have their third coach in as many seasons.

 

Jamie Miller comes to Albany after high school stops at Bearden and Farragut (Tenn.) and assistant coaching jobs at Cumberland University and West Virginia Tech.

 

The new coach will have several starters back in his first season.

 

Quarterback Brent Durham (6-3, 180, Sr.) had a balanced stat sheet, with 1,239 rushing yards and 1,264 passing yards. He accounted for 19 touchdowns and is reportedly being recruited by Division I schools.

 

Brandon Durham (6-3, 180, Sr.) is his brother’s favorite target, hauling in 38 passes and ranking second among Class A receivers in yards per game with 819 yards in 10 games.

 

Jacob Guthrie (5-11, 165, Sr.) and Neli Conner (6-0, 150, Soph.) are expected to see larger roles in the Clinton County offense, who bring back nine starters on both offense and defense.

 

Conner is a leader on defense at his outside linebacker position. Vincent, Guthrie and Brandon Durham start in the Clinton secondary.

 

Linebacker Matt Staton (5-10, 170, Jr.) and defensive end Ben Huddleston (6-1, 170, Jr.) will also be counted on to lead a defense that must improve after giving up 46 points a game last year.

 

 

Crittenden County (10-4)

Head coach: Al Starnes

2008: Lost to Beechwood 34-0 in the state semifinals

 

The stars aligned themselves right for Crittenden County last year as the Rockets nearly duplicated their magical state title run of 1985.

 

After knocking off perennial 1A power Mayfield for the second time during the season, the magic carpet ride came to an end against eventual state champion Beechwood.

 

2009 represents a good news/bad news scenario for Al Starnes’ club.

 

The good news? The Rockets only lose four players from last year’s team.

 

The bad news? Those four players were major components of their success last year and will be hard to replace this year.

 

Back to lead the Rockets is all-everything quarterback J.D. Gray (5-9, 170, Sr.), who rushed for nearly 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns and threw for over 900 yards and 10 scores.

 

With 1,400-yard rusher Rodney Robertson lost to graduation, the Rockets are looking for someone to step in and fill that void. Brian Berry (5-9, 165, Jr.) can be used in the backfield and at receiver, where he caught 10 passes for 180 yards. Andrew Freeman (5-10, 185, Jr.) may also see some carries there.

 

While the Rockets don’t throw too much, both their leading receivers graduated.

 

Crittenden County should be stout up front with all of their linemen expected to return.

 

Jacob Long (5-11, 190, Jr.), Aaron Berry (5-11, 245, Sr.), Dylan Clark (6-0, 190, Jr.), Terry Werne (5-10, 165, Jr.), and Dyllan Thornton (5-6, 170, Sr.) could all see action on both sides of the football.

 

Gray, Berry, and Freeman all return at linebacker and in the secondary for the Rockets, who have one of the better kickers in Class A in J.R. Adams.

 

Crittenden County scored their first-ever wins over Mayfield last year and appear ready to make another run through the western half of the state again in 2009 with a softer schedule that is minus last year’s playoff contenders Calloway County and Lone Oak among others.

 

 

 

Dayton (2-9)

Head coach: Zach Deaton

2008: Lost to Frankfort 49-0 in the first round of the playoffs

 

By Kevin Bundy

 

Dayton High School suffered through some growing pains during last season's 2-9 campaign, but coach Zach Deaton expects that experience to bring big things back to the Greendevils program this year.

 

"Two years ago, we had a team that finished the regular season ranked eighth in the state, and this year we have a team that wants to top that," Deaton said. "We have great leadership on this football team. These kids just love football. They live it, breathe it, and eat it."

 

The Greendevils return 18 starters and 13 seniors this season. A strong offensive line led by Anthony Cadel, Christian LeWallen, and A.J. Skedel are among that group. James Sullivan will play fullback and nose guard again this year and Derrick Buchanan returns at tailback and outside linebacker. Connor Lewis will be the team's primary receiving threat.

 

He'll be catching balls from a new quarterback this season as Patrick Schwierjohann replaces the Justin Sherlock behind center. Sherlock was one of class A's best athletes a year ago, but his graduation doesn't worry Deaton too much.

 

"Justin was a great player for us, but this is Patrick's senior year and it's his time to shine," Deaton said. "He was a great quarterback last year, and he'll do the job throwing the ball for us this year."

 

As Dayton prepares for its season opener Aug. 29 against Pendleton County High School, Deaton said the team is focusing on the little things it takes to make them a special football team. The team is fundamentally sound he said, which allows the coaches to focus more on the details.

 

"Just things like finishing the play, staying with a block, knowing your assignment," he said. "Doing the little things that turn a four-yard gain into a 40 or 50-yard gain."

 

That's a far cry from a year ago, when the team had only four seniors and Deaton's staff was pacing the young Greendevils through baby steps. The experienced gained in 2008 should have the city excited about this season, he said.

 

"(The city) can expect a great football team that will represent them very well," Deaton said. "This is a great football town and these kids want very much to win for this city. I know it gets said a lot, but this is a special group of seniors that really are willing to do whatever it takes to be successful."

 

 

Eminence (8-3)

Head coach: Steve Frommeyer

2008: Lost to Ludlow 35-20 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Eminence will try and replace all-everything Ed Berry, the standout receiver that was one of four Warriors to graduate.

 

Veteran head coach Steve Frommeyer has some key people along with a large junior class that he hopes can bring the Warriors a first round playoff game.

 

Quarterback Dre Banta (6-0, 195, Jr.) completed exactly 50-percent of his passes and threw as many touchdowns (12) as interceptions (12) in addition to 1,196 yards.

 

Junior tailback T.J. Cooper (5-10, 170) ran for nearly 1,400 yards and 17 touchdowns in leading the Warrior ground game.

 

Fullback Brad Day (5-11, 230, Jr.) also returns at linebacker for a defensive unit that gave up just 84 rushing yards a game last year.

 

Linebacker Brad Tapia, defensive end Chad Tapia, and defensive tackle Jacobi Moore (5-9, 215, Jr.) also return on defense.

 

Frommeyer expects newcomers Brad and Byron Foree to make an impact at linebacker this year.

 

He’s hoping the newcomers and a large junior class can help with the normal depth issues a small roster can bring.

 

 

Evangel Christian (0-7)

Head coach: Dave Thomas

2008: Did not compete in playoffs

 

Evangel lost all seven games last season, including a pair to North Hardin Christian, and it’s unsure how many games are scheduled for this fall.

 

While Thomas had less than 20 players on the roster last season, there were only two seniors listed among those players. So, there are a few returnees.

 

But its clear numbers and dedication will still be a problem.

 

 

Fairview (8-4)

Head coach: Nathan McPeek

2008: Lost to Raceland 40-20 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Fairview brings a talented and experienced running game to the table in 2009, but who is going to hand off the football is one of the biggest questions head coach Nathan Peek has to answer.

 

The versatile Matt Jones graduated after accounting for over 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns last year out of the spread wing-T attack.

 

The backfield has no such questions with the return of seniors T.J Shelton (5-9, 170) and Drew Boyd (5-10, 200). Shelton ran for over 900 yards and 12 touchdowns, while Boyd added 650 yards and 10 scores.

 

McPeek feels like the offensive line will be one of the strengths of his team, led by Jacob Bradley (6-0, 210, Sr.) and Chase Fannin (6-1, 225, Sr.).

 

The Eagles also have a solid nucleus returning on defense, led by the just mentioned Bradley and Fannin. Boyd returns at linebacker, and Shelton and Tyler Gilbert (6-5, 190, Sr. – 4 INTs) return in the secondary.

 

McPeek also expects Chris Littlejohn (5-10, 155, Soph.) and Ryan Webb (5-10, 190, Soph.) to crack the lineup somewhere.

 

“We are heading in the right direction with our offseason program improving and the kids working hard. I see bright things for our program,” McPeek said.

 

 

Frankfort (11-2)

Head coach: Craig Foley

2008: Lost to Beechwood 42-14 in the region championship

 

By Josh Claywell

The Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

 

The Frankfort Panthers were two games away from a trip to Papa John's Cardinal Stadium last year, and that's the goal for the Panthers once again.

 

Frankfort, which finished 11-2 and lost to eventual Class A state champ Beechwood, returns a host of athletes ready to get the Panthers to Louisville in December.

 

Back to lead the offense is prolific running back Quan Weaver, a senior who rushed for 1,178 yards and 11 touchdowns through nine games last season. Weaver, who transferred from Georgia in 2006, has verballed to the University of Louisville.

 

Also back are Dwight Tillman, Aaron Hall, Jeff and Jesse Dunmire, Kyle Eskue and Tyler Mattison.

 

But the Panthers also have to replace a bevy of athletes: Keri Metcalf, who was named The Frankfort State Journal Senior Athlete of the Year; Will Smith; Michael Rawlings; and Andrew Grider.

 

"Those guys will be the hardest to replace," veteran Frankfort coach Craig Foley said.

 

As the season draws closer, Foley hopes to see his team improve on the passing game. Foley said the Panthers would try to throw the ball more this year, something Frankfort hasn't been known for in recent seasons.

 

On defense, Frankfort runs a 3-3 stack defense that "uses speed to get after people," according to Foley.

 

Frankfort, which is off in Week 1, opens the season at home against Paris on Aug. 28.

 

 

 

Fulton City (3-7)

Head coach: Wayne Lohaus

2008: Lost to Louisville Holy Cross 35-14 in the first round of the playoffs

 

A season after winning nine games and getting their first playoff win in 40 years, Fulton City returned to Earth a bit last year with a 3-7 mark.

 

Talented quarterback Aaron Wilson has graduated, but senior running back Jacquise Lockett (6-1, 200) expects to take over the playmaker role for the Bulldogs after rushing for over 1,000 yards last year.

 

Demarquis Young (6-0, 165, Sr.) should battle for the quarterback vacancy, and Rondell Bransford (5-8, 160, Jr.) could be a backfield candidate after scoring a touchdown in limited action last year.

 

Lerinzo Ruiz (5-9, 190, Jr.) and Quinton Tribble (6-0, 205, Sr.) are expected to return on the line.

 

 

Fulton County (1-9)

Head coach: James Bridges

2008: Did not make the playoffs

 

Fulton County was one of the few Class 1A football teams to miss the playoffs in 2008, ending a streak of three straight appearances.

 

The Pilots have some size and speed returning for head coach James Bridges. How much remains to be seen.

 

Shun Udley (6-5, 205, Sr.) was used at several positions last year and will likely play quarterback if speedy sophomore Ledevin Fair (5-10, 160) has a breakthrough season.

 

Eric McClure (6-0, 165, Sr.), Billy Workman (6-0, 160, Jr.), and Victor King (6-0, 190, Sr.) are expected to fit into the offense somewhere.

 

Kadarius Bransford (6-2, 325, Sr.) and Bobby Mayo (6-1, 285, Soph.) gives the offense a large pair of bookends to run behind.

 

 

 

Gallatin County (6-6)

Head coach: Tim Browning

2008: Lost to Frankfort 49-8 in the second round of the playoffs

 

After winning seven games in 2007, Gallatin County followed it up in 2008 by shocking Bellevue for the school’s first-ever playoff win.

 

Head coach Tim Browning has several of the pieces back in 2009 despite graduating 25-percent of last year’s roster.

 

Multi-dimensional quarterback Jesse Florence is gone, which leaves a big hole on the offensive side.

 

Bryce Carlton (5-10, 150, Sr.) is expected to replace Florence at quarterback, while Shaughn Williamson (5-9, 160, Sr.) should get the lion’s share of the carries in the backfield with the graduation of Damien Mains.

 

The Wildcats should have several key people back on defense, including linebackers Josh Edmonson (5-11, 210, Sr.) and Nate Brown (5-10, 180, Sr.).

 

Mason McCarty (5-9, 190, Sr.), Zach Whitehead (5-8, 160, Jr.), and Anthony Stewart (6-1, 180, Jr.) should bolster the defensive line.

 

In just their fourth season of football, Browning feels like the program is taking the proper strides to be competitive year in and year out. He said their football field is getting lights, and a new field house will be completed in a couple of years.

 

 

Harlan (3-9)

Head coach: J.B. Donahue

2008: Lost to Pikeville 27-7 in the second round of the playoffs

 

After a pair of down seasons, including a 3-9 finish last year, the Harlan Green Dragons expect to move back into contention for a district title with a senior-dominated squad returning.

 

A trio of seniors — Andrew Link, Kenny Pennington and Ben Cornett —should provide headaches for opposing defenses and ease the growing pains for freshman quarterback Ty Saragas, who will compete with senior Aaron Carr for the starting job.

 

Senior guard James Hill (6-1, 230) and senior tackle Evan Dugger (5-11, 235) are back to lead an experienced offensive front that improved as the 2008 season progressed and played a big role in the Dragons’ playoff win over Allen Central.

 

“We’ve got a big senior class, and we expect a lot of good leadership,” Harlan coach J.B. Donahue said. “I think our strong point may be line play. We have a lot of linemen coming back, which enables us to do what we like to do.”

 

The offensive line is also expected to include junior center Zach Allen, senior guard Tanner Smith and senior tackle Brad Day. Senior Kody Johnson is back at tight end with senior Eric Robinson and sophomore Vince Bianchi sharing time at wide receiver.

 

The defense will include Brad Coots at nose guard, Allen and Dugger at the tackles, Hill and freshman Dalton Overbay at the ends and Pennington and sophomore Christian Turbyfill at linebacker. The secondary will feature Robinson and Carr at the corners and Cornett and Bianchi at the safeties.

[The Scribe]

Hazard (11-4)

Head coach: Mark Dixon

2008: Lost to Beechwood 14-7 in the Class A state championship game

 

Hazard remains the top team in District 7 of Class A after coasting to district and regional titles last year before falling 14-7 to Beechwood in the state finals.

 

Graduation hit Hazard hard as replacements will be needed for several key players, including quarterback Tyler Olinger and running backs Greg Adams and Michael Campbell.

 

Defense will have to play a bigger role this year if the Bulldogs are to remain the top Class A team in the mountains with a unit featuring senior linebackers Forest Smith and Mikael Campbell, cornerback Alex Hall, tackle Aaron Moore and end Allan Fugate.

 

Moore, a 5-10, 225-pound senior guard, and Fugate, a 6-4, 250-pound senior tackle, will anchor the offensive line.

 

 

Louisville Holy Cross (7-5)

Head coach: Mike Fletcher

2008: Lost to Mayfield 24-7 in second round of playoffs

 

Holy Cross has been one of the most consistent teams in 1A in recent years and now turns the reins of the program over to veteran coach Mike Fletcher.

 

The 61-year-old Fletcher has coached football for 33 years in Jefferson County schools, including 16 years as a head coach. He was statewide Coach of the Year in 1985 when he was coaching at Fairdale.

 

With Holy Cross, Fletcher takes over a program that has talent and good numbers. There are only 130 boys in the school but 55 are in the football program.

 

The Cougars will rely mainly on the running game, including a lot of veer and power sweep offensive sets. The top offensive players in the fold are quarterback Devin Brown, wide receiver Mike McCoy, tight end Austin Harlow and running backs Jesse Keen, Cameron Scott and Matt Hans.

 

Harlow, Hans and Scott will serve as the Cougars’ solid crop of linebackers, while Wes Strange and T.J. Pollard are among the top linemen.

 

Fletcher has been a teacher at Holy Cross for eight years but was an assistant at the school for only the first three seasons. He was the head coach at Fairdale from 1984-91 – winning 71 games – and at Valley from ’93-2000 – winning 44 games.

 

 

 

Jenkins (2-9)

Head coach: Larry Maggard

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

 

Former Letcher Central assistant Larry Maggard takes over the continuing rebuilding project at Jenkins, which finished 2-9 a year ago after posting a 6-5 mark the previous year, its best performance in at least a decade.

 

Graduation hit Jenkins hard as senior lineman Jacob Hicks (6-2, 250) and senior quarterback Matt Gross are the only Cavaliers returning with extensive varsity experience.

 

A trio of sophomores, center Chadrick Fleming (5-10, 230), and guards Justin Bentley (5-9, 185) and Austin Bentley (5-9, 185), will play key roles on the offensive front.

 

 

Kentucky Country Day (2-9)

Head coach: Tim Green

2008: Lost to Crittenden County 47-0 in first round of playoffs

 

The Bearcats lost their final eight games a year ago and again will be young this season, but coach Tim Green said his team will be more athletic.

 

Tight end Martin Resinger is one of the best at his position in the Louisville-area, while offensive lineman Mac Etoch and Paul Peters are back.

 

Wide receiver Will Smith caught 25 passes last season, while Chris Kessler hauled in more than a dozen. Running back Ryan Scinta ran 21 times for 130 yards.

 

On defense, the leading tackler returning is sophomore linebackers Scinta and Chase Bennett and junior defensive end David Giesel.

 

Green will employ a powerful staff that includes several former college players. Among those on the staff will be ex-University of Louisville and NFL quarterback Dave Ragone, former Louisville Fire head coach Tommy Johnson and ex-U of L players Tony Stallings and Justin Rascotti.

 

 

Lexington Christian (10-4)

Head coach: Paul Rains

2008: Lost to Hazard 28-21 in the Class A semifinals

 

By JOSH CLAYWELL

The Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

 

After finishing in the final four in the 1A playoffs last season, Lexington Christian coach Paul Rains and his coaching staff have revamped the defense for the Eagles.

 

Lexington Christian, coming off a 10-4 campaign after falling to Hazard in the state semifinals, has switched to a 3-5-3 defense.

 

"Spring ball was spent installing the new defense," Lexington Christian assistant coach Curtis Cotton said. "We had several key athletes out playing baseball."

 

Linebackers Tyler Townsend and Evan Barnette, both of whom anchored the defense, are gone from last season.

 

Cotton said it hasn't been easy to replace the duo.

 

"There are returning players with some starting experience already stepping up to fill their shoes," Cotton said. "The biggest question of the offseason is who will fill in as the emotional leader of the defense that was held by Townsend."

 

Senior linemen Bo Baker and Chase Fairchild along with senior linebacker Neil Whitman are among eight returning starters on defense. Senior cornerback Drew Walls, who has 19 career interceptions, is also back.

Cotton said Whitman has the potential to "become the best LB the school has ever had."

 

While the team is still adjusting to its new defense, the offense is in good hands as the Eagles return senior quarterback Lucas Witt, senior running back Domonique Hayden and senior wideout Brandon Burdette. The trio is among seven returning starters on offense.

 

Witt has passed for 6,841 yards and 76 touchdowns in his career, while Hayden has rushed for 5,524 yards and 87 scores and Burdette has recorded 100 catches for 1,733 yards and 23 TDs.

 

With that leadership, Cotton feels the Eagles can get back to the state championship game for the first time since 2007.

 

"We will be a top-five team again this year against a very tough schedule," Cotton said. "We have a puncher's chance of winning the whole thing. Tradition never graduates."

 

 

Ludlow (5-7)

Head coach: Rick Hornsby

2008: Lost to Beechwood 54-0 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Ludlow improved by two wins in 2008 but was hit hard by graduation.

 

Senior quarterback Zach Stegemoller is the main offensive threat returning after throwing for 796 yards and rushing for 388. However, his accuracy must improve after throwing for twice as many interceptions (23) as touchdowns (11).

 

Senior Jacob Ashcraft is expected to earn a starting job in the backfield, and senior Chris MacKay returns at tight end.

 

Up front, seniors Drew Rice and Justin Carlotta anchor a line that has mainly sophomores returning.

 

The Panthers have altered their 2009 schedule to include more schools their size, which should help them with depth and development until the district portion of the slate begins.

 

 

 

Lynn Camp (4-7)

Head coach: David Mitchell

2008: Lost to Lexington Christian 62-8 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Early-season injuries derailed Lynn Camp’s hopes of a big season in 2008 as the Wildcats finished 4-7 and fell to Lexington Christian in the first round of the playoffs.

 

David Mitchell, back for his 32nd season as coach, expects to be strong up front with 6-6, 290-pound senior tackle Brad Bargo, 6-0, 240-pound senior guard Brandon Disney and 5-10, 235-pound junior guard Dalton Lanham returning.

 

Seniors Tyrone Person and Wesley Steele and sophomore Dylan Napier will share the ball-carrying responsibilities. Person ran for 1,045 yards after moving into the starting lineup following injuries to Sidney Wagner and Steele, who ran for 206 yards in limited duty.

 

 

Mayfield (7-6)

Head coach: Joe Morris

2008: Lost to Crittenden County 26-13 in the region title game

 

Two consecutive seasons without reaching the state semifinals is a feeling Mayfield football fans aren’t accustomed to experiencing, but this year’s team is a source of optimism.

 

Again, the Cardinals will have speed and athleticism that few small-school teams can match, and with all hands on deck, a spot in the final four is expected by the team’s devoted fans.

 

“I think our offense is ahead of the defense,” coach Joe Morris said. “We’ve got a lot of speed and weapons.”

 

Quarterback Luke Guhy (6-2, 155) was solid as a sophomore and will be the distributor. “He’s put on about 15 pounds, he’s more of a leader and he has a better knowledge of the offense,” Morris said. “He did a good job for us last year and we think he’ll be better.”

 

Tailback Tyrese Murrell (5-8, 165) has been the centerpiece of the offense for a couple of years, and he’s a workhorse back in spite of his small stature.

 

This year, the Cardinals will have the luxury of spelling him from time to time with junior Decole Noonan (5-6, 170), who showed some explosiveness as a freshman but missed last season for academic and disciplinary reasons.

 

And both backs can line up as wideouts when Mayfield wants to spread the field.

 

“One of our biggest problems last year was that we didn’t have much depth behind Tyrese,” Morris said. “He’s such a big part of what we’re doing on both sides of the field, but we couldn’t rest him very much. (Noonan) solves part of that problem because we know what he’s capable of giving us.”

 

Xavier Shelton (6-2, 185) and Javarius Richardson (6-1, 190) return at receiver, and Mayfield will have an experienced line led by tackle Jantzen Jones (6-3, 265), Hunter Kingston (6-2, 245) and Taylor Sullivan (6-0, 230).

 

Defensively, the Cardinals will have plenty of speed on the field with Murrell, a four-year starter at cornerback, and Richardson heading the secondary. Morris also likes what he’s seen from speedy William Higginson (5-9, 155) and newcomer Hector Oronia (5-11, 160).

 

The linebacker corps could be young and talented alongside holdover Matthew Schulz (5-11, 185). Sophomore Shain Ross (5-11, 170) is expected to start with highly-touted freshman Jonathan Jackson (6-0, 175).

 

Kingston, Jones and Kevin Noonan (5-8, 280) anchor the defensive line. Junior Marc Wynstra will handle the punting and placekicking duties.

 

 

Nicholas County (3-7)

Head coach: Robert Hopkins

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

A major rebuilding project appears on the horizon for Robert Hopkins and the Nicholas County Bluejackets, who missed the playoffs last year and haven’t won a postseason game since 2000.

 

The first priority is to replace 16 seniors from last year’s squad.

 

Some of the building blocks are expected to include quarterback Zack Lemons (6-2, 200, Sr.) and running backs Caleb Pope (6-0, 160, Soph.) and Logan White (5-10, 210, Sr.).

 

 

North Hardin Christian (2-3)

Head coach: Paige Hardin

2008: Did not compete in district play

 

By JOSH CLAYWELL

The Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

 

Last year was a season of change and growing pains for the North Hardin Christian Falcons.

 

The small private school in Radcliff began making the transition to the KHSAA two years ago and also started a football team.

 

Year one saw the Falcons be successful in a Tennessee-based Christian school organization. Year two found them playing KHSAA schools Caverna, Louisville Evangel and Eminence.

 

North Hardin Christian also played an eight-man schedule, something coach Paige Hardin said he wasn't as prepared for as he thought.

 

"We experimented last year with playing both eight-man and 11-man,” Hardin said. "We learned that it's hard to transition. The difference is in the philosophy. In eight-man, the responsibilities are different than in 11-man. We didn't feel that worked well."

 

Hardin is trying to get the KHSAA to reform an eight-man league, something he said would be beneficial to his school.

 

"Last year was tough. Any time we were in an eight-man situation, we were competitive in every game," Hardin said. "I just did not realize the difference in the two."

 

The Falcons return nearly everyone from last season, but have to replace some key players at skill positions.

 

Most notably, North Hardin Christian will have to find replacements for twin brothers Justin (running back) and Quintin Jones (wide receiver).

 

"This year, we obviously lost some key players. But we've got some guys coming in that we're excited about," Hardin said. "We've had several guys come in, and we're kind of waiting to see ourselves how things will work out.

 

"Most of our losses were in the running back position and wide receiver," Hardin added. "We're just going to have to get together and work things out. It is a wait and see right now, but we've got some good athletes on the team."

 

 

Paintsville (6-6)

Head coach: Jason Kinner

2008: Lost to Hazard 56-14 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Two straight 6-6 campaigns have the Paintsville Tigers and second-year coach Jason Kinner hungry for a return to their position as one of the top teams in Region 4 of Class A.

 

“We are making strides in the right direction,” Kinner said. “We must continue to take advantage of the weight room and continue to improve our team speed. We are making progress every day and have the tools to be a very good football team.

 

“I think the 2009 Tigers will compete for a district title with Pikeville and possibly a regional title with Hazard and Pikeville.”

 

The Tigers plan to continue running a spread offense and 3-3 stack on defense.

 

Key players returning for Paintsville include running back/outside linebacker Nehemiah Doderer, lineman Seth Rice, quarterback Dyllon Brown, linemen Cory Sexton, Tyler Spriggs and Mason Castle and receiver/linebacker Brett Reynolds.

 

“Our offensive line should be our strength this season,” Kinner said. “The entire crew returns. We lost a lot of skill to graduation and will have some trouble replacing several of those guys.

 

Running back Trent Burchett could be the most improved of the Tigers.

“Trent averaged over 150 yards a game rushing in junior varsity and should make an immediate impact at the varsity level,” Kinner said.

 

 

Paris (3-8)

Head coach: J.J. Everage

2008: Lost to Williamsburg 50-6 in the first round of the playoffs

 

J.J. Everage is trying to restore the tradition at Paris that saw the school win three state titles from 1973-82. The Greyhounds have won just one playoff game since 1998 (2001).

 

There are some pieces there for Everage to put a competitive team on the field in 2009 and end their playoff drought. The addition of Class 1A powers Frankfort and Hazard to the Greyhound schedule should help them later in the season.

 

Cody Dumphord (5-10, 180, Sr.) has the potential to be one of the best linebackers in the state and anchors a defense that must improve from allowing 33 points a game last year.

 

Cody Maggard (6-3, 190, Sr.) threw for over 800 yards in a ground-oriented offense last year. Tiion Thomas has graduated, and that opens the door for several people to challenge for backfield starting slots.

 

Everage is hoping the return of at least 12 seniors helps mold his squad into a playoff challenger in November.

 

 

 

Phelps (2-8)

Head coach: Jesse Peck

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

Led by senior running back Steven Dotson, who rushed for 579 yards and had five catches for 32 yards last year, the Phelps Hornets expect to improve on a 2-8 mark from 2008.

 

Sophomore Josh Blankenship is back after completing 12 of 20 passes last year in a part-time role at quarterback.

 

Senior Brennan Smith is back to lead the defense after picking off three passes and recording 25 solo tackles and 16 assists last year. Dotson added 13 solo tackles and 35 assists.

 

Seniors Chase Rayburn, Matt Lester and Aaron Biliter and junior Tyler Honaker also ranked among the team leaders in tackles in 2008.

 

 

Pikeville (7-6)

Head coach: Ben Howard

2008: Lost to Hazard 41-14 in the region championship

 

Despite an uncharacteristic 7-6 record a year ago and a loss to Hazard in the Region 4 finals, the Pikeville Panthers have lofty goals in their first season under the leadership of coach Ben Howard, the son of eastern Kentucky coaching legend Hillard Howard, who led the program to three state titles in the 1980s.

 

“Pikeville High School’s goal is always to win a state championship, Howard said. “If we do not reach that goal, than we have not had the type of season we wanted to. I have told the kids though that if you want to be the last team standing, then you have to outwork everyone else.”

 

Howard says the Panthers “will run a wide open offense out of the spread formation, and on defense we are going to run a 4-2.”

 

A big season is expected from senior quarterback Blake Branham (6-2, 185) , who threw for approximately 800 yards last season in an offense built around star running back Daniel Harmon.

 

“During our spring and during our seven on seven competitions our quarterback has looked extremely good. He has picked up the offense very quick and is always looking to get better,” Howard said. “His brother, Matt, broke all the passing record at the school in this type of offense and will be coaching Blake at the quarterback position.”

 

Senior J.R. Robinson and junior Ross McCoy, who combined for 400 yards rushing last year, will also play bigger roles in the backfield. Returning of the offensive line are seniors Justin Mullins and Jared Anderson and junior Ben Staggs.

 

“Our strength should be our offensive line. They are the most experienced unit with three seniors looking to start right now and a junior. The other spot will most likely be filled with a sophomore or junior. Senior Jared Anderson (6-3, 255), who squatted 560 pounds this offseason, and senior Justin Mullins (6-6, 280) are both getting looks from some Division 1 schools.”

 

Sophomore Randy Maynard returns as the tight end.

 

“I think we have one of the best tight end/slot receivers around in Randy Maynard,” Howard said. “He is only a sophomore, but he plays offense and defense like a senior. He has good speed (around a 4.7 40) and great hands. However, his route running is what has separated him from the rest of the kids so far. He knows how to get open.”

 

Returning starters on defense include Staggs, Anderson and senior Dusty Khoshreza on the defensive line. McCoy, Maynard and Robinson are back in the linebacking corps. Sophomore Gavin Miller and junior Taylor Ratliff return in the secondary.

 

Howard has been impressed by Clark Keene, who sat out the last two seasons.

 

“During seven on seven competitions, he has been the most consistent receiver along with Maynard,” Howard said. “He will play an H back, which is running back who doubles as a receiver. He is extremely fast and has unbelievable hands. Our receivers our young but have also looked good early on. They consist of Gavin Miller, who is a sophomore and probably our fastest overall kid and twin brothers Jared and Josh Tackett. Both of them are about 6-2 and have great hands. Taylor Ratliff (a junior) will be our go to go more than likely and also runs very well and catches the ball really well.

 

“I also feel like we got three very good running backs in Ross McCoy, J.R. Robinson and Clark Keene. McCoy and Robinson are both squatting around 500 pounds and benching close to 300, so I feel like physically they are both going to be tough to take down. Clark Keene is as gifted as any running back I have ever coached based on what I saw in the spring and in seven on seven competitions. He has amazing hips and is only going to get better as the season goes on.”

 

Howard says his schedule is very challenging with non-district games against Covington Holy Cross, Boyle County, Belfry, Sheldon Clark and Prestonsburg.

 

“Throw in a tough district schedule which includes Paintsville and two very improved teams Allen Central and Betsy Layne, and I think it is as tough a schedule as you will see for a Class A team,” he said.

 

“If we stay healthy, I think we can be pretty good by the end of the season. We play an extremely tough non- district schedule though, and our district has improved drastically over the past couple of years. Our coaching staff and our kids feel like the district and region are wide open and that we can win both of them if we play the type of football the we are capable of.”

 

The addition of former Pikeville and Pike Central coach Chris McNamee to the staff should also help, according to Howard.

 

“I feel like I got an early Christmas present when I got Chris McNamee to come over as a defensive coordinator,” he said. “He will be a great asset to our team and for me in my first year as a head coach.”

[The Scribe]

Pineville (3-8)

Head coach: Bart Elam

2008: Lost to Paintsville 14-11 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Nine starters are back on both sides of the line for a senior-dominated Pineville squad that expects to push Harlan for a home playoff game after posting a 3-8 mark a year.

 

Receiver A.Y. Evans, quarterback Mark Combs and fullback Alvin Smith are among the seniors being counted on for big seasons from coach Bart Elam.

 

Evans had 18 catches for 209 yards last year, and Combs completed 82 of 157 passes for 1,053 yards and six touchdowns.

 

Junior tailback Cody Hendrickson could provide the big-play threat the Lions lacked last year after missing the season due to a knee injury.

 

Juniors Eric Raby, with 17 receptions last year, and Brandon Hollingsworth, with 10, will provide a pair of experienced receiving threats.

 

The Pineville line will feature senior guards Cody Bingham (5-10, 200) and Jamie Lawson (6-4, 330) and senior tackles Tim Hubbard (6-2, 260) and Jon Widener (6-2, 230).

 

 

 

Raceland (12-1)

Head Coach: Randy Vanderhoof

2008: Lost to Lexington Christian 27-20 in the region championship

 

Raceland will once again be in a heated battle with Lexington Christian for the District Championship.

 

In 2006, Raceland defeated LCA for the District championship. A year later

in 2007, LCA beat Raceland by two points to earn the District championship.

 

And in 2008, Raceland won the District title just to lose to LCA in the regional championship game.

 

2009 will be no different. Expect a battle between these two teams for the number one seed in the playoffs.

 

Raceland is coming off of its best record in school history that saw 12 consecutive victories, a District Championship, an Eastern Kentucky Conference Championship, and a trip to the Regional Championship game.

 

It will be a task to replace a senior laden team, but due to many lopsided games in 2008, many underclassmen received valuable playing time that will pay off quick in 2009.

 

On offense, Raceland will be looking for a new quarterback. Luckily, they have three options -- last year’s backup Tyler Farley (6’0”, 190, Jr), who proved that he could lead the team in the second round of the playoffs when he became the starter.

 

The second option will be Marcus Reed (5’11”, 150, So), who saw limited time last year, but has tremendous athletic ability.

 

Option three is transfer Mason Rister (5’11, 185, Jr), who has strength, speed, and ability.

 

No matter which one becomes the starting quarterback, expect to see two or three of them on the field at the same time.

 

The back with the most experience will be Cody Kelley (5’11”, 200, Sr), a solid downhill runner with power.

 

The rest of the backfield could be a committee. Transfer Jeremy Barr (5’11”, 200, Sr) could provide the one-two punch for Raceland.

 

Other options include Michael Litteral (5’8”, 170, Jr), who has great speed and saw quality playing time last year until he was injured.

 

Ralph Burchett (5’8”, 145, Jr) has great speed and got quality playing experience last year. Dillon Skaggs (5’9, 180, Sr) showed real promise in 2008.

 

No matter what combination is used, Raceland should be deep at the running back position.

 

Bobby McKee (6’0”, 180, Sr) should be the primary target for the starting quarterback. McKee showed his ability last season while starting as a junior.

 

Joining him at receiver position could be Loren Huffman (5’9”, 145, Sr), who started most of 2008 and will bring more experience to receiving corps.

 

The other receiver position will be up for grabs by Sam Hieneman (5’8”, 135, Jr), Patrick Hamilton (5’9, 140, Sr), Daniel Jones (5’8”, 140, Sr), and Johnny Shearer (5’10, 140, Sr).

 

The offensive line should once again be a strong point for Raceland with returning starters Cody Grant (6’1”, 245, Sr), Rocky Jobe (6’0, 260, Sr), and Eddie Compton (6’0, 200, Sr). Joining them could be Austin Johnson (6’3, 250, Jr) and Brian Caudill (6’1”, 240, So).

 

On defense, Raceland will be returning Kelley at linebacker. Look for Barr to earn one of the linebacker spots as well. Michael Litteral will probably fill the other outside linebacker spot.

 

In the defensive backfield, look for Jones and Huffman to play the corners, with McKee at the safety. All saw time as a starter last season.

 

The defensive line will see returning starters with Grant, Compton, and Jobe. Johnson and Caudill could also see significant playing time.

 

Raceland will not have the experience in 2009 that they had in 2008, but don’t expect a let down in playing ability or talent. Raceland will gain experience over the early season and will end up competing with LCA in the playoffs once again.

 

 

South Floyd (1-9)

Head coach: Jody Hall

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

Reversing a 1-9 performance from a year ago won’t be easy for the South Floyd Raiders, who lost several top players to graduation. Seniors accounted for 28 of the Raiders’ touchdowns last year as senior David Slone and junior Mitch Johnson are the only players scheduled to return who reached the end zone in 2008. Johnson rushed for 137 yards on 29 carries a year ago.

 

Sophomore quarterback Tyler Moore completed 25 of 69 passes for 570 yards and five touchdowns last year. Slone had seven catches for 172 yards and one touchdown.

 

Sophomore Gordon Hall is the only other player back with a varsity catch last year.

 

 

 

Trimble County (4-7)

Head coach: Chris Collins

2008: Lost to Beechwood 42-6 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Chris Collins comes to Trimble County from Atherton and takes over a program that made significant strides under former coach Johnny Poynter, who took the Bourbon County job.

 

While Collins will have to replace the graduated Larry Sullivan at quarterback, he does have several other key people back on offense.

 

“We’re going to run a modified Wing-T out of the shotgun. Everyone we have coming back played some role on the offense, and we need everybody to make an impact for us,” Collins said.

 

Michael Edens (5-10, 160, Sr.) is the top rusher coming back after running for 406 yards and a touchdown last year.

 

Blake Renfro (6-2, 170, Sr.) is back at receiver after catching 33 passes for 649 yards and four touchdowns. Edens also caught 14 passes for 193 yards out of the backfield.

 

Skiler Alexander (5-10, 160, Soph.), Stewart Barnes (6-2, 170, Soph.), and Jordan Blanton (5-8, 130, Jr.) should also see time at either receiver or in the backfield.

 

Up front, C.J. Oberhausen (5-8, 160, Sr.), Joe West (5-10, 195, Sr.), Cody Webster (6-1, 185, Sr.), and Dallas Stucker (5-8, 175, Jr.) return for an undersized but quick line.

 

Collins said he plans to run a base 4-3 defense, with Blanton and Edens (86 tackles) back at linebacker.

 

“I want to build off the success of the previous coach. The players know how to win, and now it’s time to expect to win every game,” said Collins. “We definitely plan on being in the playoffs and winning several playoff games.”

 

 

 

Walton-Verona (4-6)

Head coach: Jeff Barth

2008: Did not compete in district play

 

Fresh off their first season of varsity play, Walton-Verona steps into district play with high expectations.

 

Former Highlands player Jeff Barth, who coached at the middle school level last year, was named the new head coach of the Bearcats in the spring.

Barth has some playmakers returning for his first season on the sidelines, including quarterback Cameron Reynolds (6-5, 170, Sr.).

 

Jordan Perdue (6-0, 200, Jr.) and Zach MacAdams (6-0, 200, Soph.) are returning in the backfield.

 

Walton-Verona should see the return of 13 of their 18 linemen who dressed last year, with several of them part of a senior class that could total 15 players.

 

 

 

Williamsburg (10-2)

Head coach: Jimmy Herron

2008: Lost to Lexington Christian 69-48 in the second round of the playoffs

 

With several key ingredients returning from one of the top passing offenses in Class A, the Williamsburg Yellow Jackets are favored to repeat as District 6 champs after posting a 10-2 record last year.

 

Ryan Moses, a 6-foot-3, 185-pound senior, passed for 2,809 yards and 35 touchdowns last season. Daniel Pettit, a 6-4, 230-pound senior tight end, had 517 yards receiving, and senior wide receiver Dusty Brown added 422 receiving yards.

 

Junior running back Chris Lowrie and sophomore receiver Jarred Barton are expected to complement the big three, while senior nose guard Jeremy Collins (6-0, 250) is back to lead the defense after recording 56 tackles last year.