Bardstown (5-7)

Head Coach - David Clark

2009 – Lost to Monroe County 49-14 in second round of Class 2A playoffs

 

By Peter W. Zubaty

Sports Editor, The Kentucky Standard

 

The 2009 season was a trying one at times for David Clark as the Bardstown coach rarely enjoyed a full complement of players.

 

But last year's bad luck could turn out to be this year's blessing.

 

Other than explosive running back Ricky Harper, “all the other key contributors sat out multiple games,” Clark said. “Because of injury, we were able to get experience in positions you usually don't have experience in.”

 

As a result, Clark will return a squad of young veterans who already have a district championship under their collective belt, which could lead to the Tigers competing for a region crown this year if everything falls into place.

 

Harper is gone, as is Deangelo Poynter, who battled an ankle injury all of 2009, leaving a big hole in the running game. Junior Jack Whitfield has been part of the backfield rotation since he was a freshman, and shows a knack for running inside the tackles, and junior C.J. Jackson will also get a lot of carries.

 

The running game will get a boost from the return of senior Keith Mattingly — out most of 2009 with a torn ACL — at fullback.

 

The Tigers lost line anchor Dominique McMakin to graduation and would-be junior Josh Koontz, a two-year starter who transferred across town to Bethlehem, where his father, Ron Koontz, will be taking over as head coach after serving more than a decade as a Bardstown assistant. Senior Taylor Mayberry and junior Jacob Ferrell anchor the offensive line. Luke Shrewsbury is the lone senior on the defensive line.

 

With the hiring of former Tiger standout James Brewer as head basketball coach comes a side benefit for the football team, as Brewer's sons Anthony and Jordan transfer from LaRue County, where they started at wideout and quarterback, respectively, as sophomores last year, and will do so for the Tigers.

 

Marcus Cosby, a sophomore, emerged as the Tigers' top receiver last year after the now-graduated J.P. Willett suffered a broken wrist that kept him out most of the year.

 

Senior Kameron Lackey and junior Tanner Culver are big playmakers in the linebacking corps.

 

The secondary figures to be a strength, with senior Ben Lyvers anchoring a speedy unit.

 

 

Bath County (2-9)

Head coach: Reed Fields

2009: Lost to Middlesboro 49-14 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Heavy losses to graduation took its toll on Bath County last year, dropping from eight wins in 2008 to just two in 2009.

 

Head coach Reed Fields must again fill some big holes with the losses of Michael Bowling and Josh Terry on offense.

 

Sophomore Clark Kissick took over at quarterback early in the season last year.

 

Sophomore Travis Walters, junior Michael Wells, and junior Hayden Schwartz are slated to return in the backfield.

 

Dalton Armitage and Jared Richards are among the top returnees on defense along with sophomore Griffin Bradley.

 

 

Caldwell County (4-7)

Head coach: David Barnes

2009: Lost to Fort Campbell 56-7 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Three straight first round playoff losses has Caldwell County chomping at the bit to end that streak in 2010.

 

The Tigers have some key people back but must compensate for heavy losses on the line.

 

Senior Blake Hodges returns at quarterback after throwing for 1,390 yards and eight touchdowns in the Franklin system.

 

Senior Brandon Sigler is a dual threat in the backfield and may even take some snaps at quarterback. Sigler rushed for 515 yards and caught 36 passes out of the backfield. However, Sigler is nursing a shoulder injury suffered in summer baseball.

 

The next three receivers past Sigler graduated, leaving junior Aggie Capps, junior Baxter Boyd, and back-up quarterback Tez Sivills the likely targets for Hodges.

 

Barnes’ biggest chore will be to develop a line from a large unit of underclassmen. Derrick Day and Tate Martin are among the starting candidates on the line.

 

With other teams in the district seeing similar heavy losses, the Tigers figure to challenge for the top spot in the district in 2010.

 

 

Carroll County (6-5)

Head coach: Mark Weedman

2009: Lost to Newport Central Catholic 63-19 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Carroll County is hoping that recent seasons of relying on underclassmen pays off this year as the Panthers look to end a streak of six years without a postseason win.

 

Senior Zach Wise rushed for nearly 1,000 yards last year and should team with Tyler Gross and Carson Butcher in the backfield. Those three combined to rush for over 1,200 yards last year.

 

Junior Trent Downs returns at quarterback but must improve on his touchdown-to-interception ratio.

 

Senior Daniel Wheeler is back in the secondary for the Panthers after leading the team in fumble recoveries in 2009.

 

Defensive end Tyler Grant and sophomore Dillon Craig also return on defense for Carroll County, who opens their season with consecutive home games with Gallatin County and Bracken County.

 

 

Christian Academy-Louisville (9-3)

Head coach: John Dryden

2009: Lost to Newport Central Catholic 27-7 in second round of playoffs

 

The Centurions have quietly done a nice job of building the program from the ground up.

 

This season, coach John Dryden expects to have a winning season again with some talented returning players.

 

Jacob Richter, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound quarterback, will lead the offensive attack for Christian Academy. He has a nice arm and has a few weapons to work with on offense.

 

Linemen Johnny Blount and Craig Lewellyn are both experienced and should be leaders.

 

The Centurions lost to Newport Central Catholic in the second round of the playoffs last season.

 

 

 

Corbin (10-3)

Head coach: Steve Jewell

2009: Lost to Prestonsburg 23-7 in the region championship

 

The Redhounds remain the favorite in District 8 despite losing 18 players to graduation, including running backs Caleb Watkins and Ryan Fritts, who teamed up for over 2,000 yards.

 

Senior halfback Matthew Taylor will be counted on for an even bigger role in the offense, and senior quarterback Roman Mitchell could also be given more opportunities through the air after passing for 898 yards a year ago.

 

Junior wide receiver Vin Hoover also returns, along with junior fullback Brady Foley and junior guard Nick Howington (5-9, 215).

 

Taylor and Foley, with 32 and 30 solo tackles, respectively, a year ago are back to lead the defense at linebacker, along with junior safety Mitchell Frederick and senior linebacker Saxon Okuma.

 

 

Danville (5-7)

Head coach: Sam Harp

2009: Lost to Green County 61-22 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Danville’s first losing season in 30 years didn’t set well in Admiral land. It wasn’t the seven losses that bothered most people but how they lost.

 

A 41-point loss to Somerset, blowout losses to Boyle County and Green County, and allowing a winless Fort Knox team to score 25 points against them.

 

The Danville defense gave up an uncharacteristic 31 points a game, with seven opponents topping 30 points.

 

The Admirals are looking to again be a factor in the Class 2A race with the return of 17 starters.

 

Sophomore Devonta Alcorn gave the Ads an athletic presence at quarterback, while senior Devin Lynn and junior and Patrick Brand return in the backfield.

 

Junior Marcus Brown and sophomore Devin Furlow should also see time in the backfield.

 

Up front, Danville has both size and experience returning in guard Davis Brown (6-0, 257, Sr.) and tackles Tevin Raines (6-1, 242, Sr.) and Demarcus Walton (6-0, 225, Sr.).

 

Cameron Burgess and Andrew Lasure will see time at tight end and fill in on the line as needed.

 

The defense holds the key for the Admirals’ season. The return of four starters at linebacker should help.

 

Seniors Lynn, Raines, Heath Mountjoy, and junior Rhodes Bell will anchor the defense behind a line that will include Chris Gray and Matthew Logan.

 

“Our skill level will be much better this year, and so will our offensive and defensive line play,” said veteran head coach Sam Harp. “We have fallen off the last couple of years, but the future looks good as we have some pretty good athletes in the lower classes.”

 

Harp needs just one win to reach 300 for his coaching career but will have to counter with a tough early schedule that includes Mason County, Rockcastle County, Pikeville, Somerset, and Class 4A state champion and cross-town rival Boyle County.

 

 

DeSales (11-4)

Head coach Mark Sander

2009: Lost to Fort Campbell 29-9 in the Class 2A state title game

 

Coming off one of its best seasons in school history – a loss in the Class 2-A state title game – the Colts will be trying to repeat the feat.

 

But it won’t be easy.

 

Coach Mark Sander lost the school’s all-time leading rusher Andrew Beeler, who had over 1,500 yards last season, and quarterback/kicker/all-purpose guy Ryan Johnson.

 

Senior Garrit Leicht ran for 420 yards and 10 touchdowns as a junior and should be the leader for the Colts.

 

Jeremy Lucas had three interceptions last season and will be a leader on defense, along with linemen Andrew Weigel and Nick Tassin. Junior Kameron Able will help on both sides of the ball for the Colts.

 

Sander has built a nice program in recent years and the Colts should continue their winning ways.

 

 

Fort Campbell (15-0)

Head coach: Shawn Berner

2009: Beat DeSales 29-9 to win the Class 2A state title

 

Fort Campbell reeled off the school’s first undefeated season and became the first program to run off three straight Class 2A state titles.

 

The Falcons could be considered a favorite to win their fourth straight state title but the field may have caught up to them in their bid to repeat.

 

Head coach Shawn Berner must replace a stable of athletes that include Mr. Football Antonio Andrews as well as playmakers Troy Turner, Breeon Moreno, and Darrian Crank.

 

The Falcons must also overcome the loss of offensive coordinator Mike Marciano and assistant coach Scott Lowe who took coaching jobs in Clarksville, Tennessee.

 

The biggest step toward repeating will be replacing Andrews at quarterback. The Mr. Football winner accounted for over 3,200 yards of offense and 57 touchdowns.

 

Senior lefty Luke Reynolds and junior Aaron Hills should compete for the starting job. Reynolds is more of a drop-back passer while Hills is more of a scrambler.

 

Berner could opt to use Hills out of the backfield and Reynolds at quarterback. Senior T.J. Tucker is another back who should see his offensive role expanded.

 

One player expected to have a bigger role in the offense was senior Tre Powell, who had five returns for touchdowns last year in addition to catching 17 TD passes. However, Powell injured his knee at an offseason combine and will likely not be available until late in the regular season.

 

The Falcons lost several starters on the line but were able to cultivate depth due to their multiple blowout wins last year.

 

Seniors Conor McVickar, and Kyle Clements and junior Brady Jorstad all started at times last year. Sophomore Koty Hix could also challenge for a starting spot on the line.

 

The Falcons lost some playmakers on defense but return some size up front with Jorstad, McVickar, and Jeff Garner.

 

Senior Dakota Januchowski was among the team leaders in tackles at the linebacker spot. Tucker and Reynolds should also see time at linebacker for the Falcons, who must also find a way to replace Powell and three other starters in the secondary.

 

Fort Campbell has won 20 straight games and 42 of their last 43 dating back three seasons. But the Falcons are going to have to get some major contributions from a group of newcomers if they are to make it to Bowling Green in December.

 

 

Fort Knox (3-8)

Head coach: Brandon Combs

2009: Lost to Green County 56-7 in the first round of the playoffs

 

By Josh Claywell

The Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

 

After going 1-43 in their last 44 games, the Fort Knox Eagles were ready for a change. But following an 0-6 start last season, things didn't appear to be any different on post.

 

Then came word that the Eagles were going to receive a forfeit win over Shawnee, originally a 35-14 loss to extend their losing streak to 38 games. The streak, officially, was over. But the Eagles still didn't have an actual win to their credit.

 

After losses to district rivals Washington County and Danville, that changed Oct. 23 against visiting Bardstown. Fort Knox picked up its first win with a 27-17 victory on post, and followed that up with a 35-18 win over Hart County for its first winning streak since 2003.

 

"I felt that we finally started to turn the corner," third-year Fort Knox coach Brandon Combs said. "Once the team finally got a little confidence in them they did real well toward the end of the year. I hope we can continue what we built on.

 

"Our players are ready to break out of this rut that we have been in for some time," he added. "These guys are ready to compete instead of being the doormat."

 

With their top two running backs and the heart of soul of the defense returning, the Eagles have the pieces in place to improve on last year.

 

Junior Quensie Brown and senior Frank Richardson return in the backfield, while senior Detrick Cooper returns as the anchor of the defense at middle linebacker.

 

"Detrick was the cornerstone of our defense toward the end of the year last year when the team turned it on," Combs said. "He was the main reason for that. He is a head hunter and loves to punish whoever he attempts to tackle."

 

Brown and Richardson split time at running back, with Brown getting most of the carries.

 

"Quensie is a tough runner that is also super fast who will be a great running back for us this year," Combs said. "When he really got going on offense, he was hard to stop. He is one of those players you love to watch to play because he plays with a lot of heart. He is one of those guys when it's fourth-and-one you know you can count on to get the first down.

 

"Frank showed a lot of potential last year," he added. "I look for him to have a stellar year for us this year."

 

Senior Lance Lane is another returnee who Combs said could move to quarterback after being a receiver last year.

 

"Lance will play a key role as a leader on the team this year," Combs said.

 

The Eagles didn't lose much to graduation or transfers, but they do have to replace two key starters in quarterback Scott Hubner and place kicker Emmy Raney.

 

Fort Knox lost three other players to graduation, and Combs said a few new players moved in.

 

"Spring ball went well and we had a great turnout," he said. "The players worked really hard, and team morale is really high."

 

 

Glasgow (5-6)

Head coach: Rick Wood

2009: Lost to Danville 49-35 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Glasgow rebounded from the program’s first-ever winless season in 2008 to win five games last year.

 

With many key playmakers back for head coach Rick Wood, the Scotties expect to post the program’s first winning season since 2007. Only eight seniors were lost to graduation.

 

Senior Tavion Parrish (803 yards) and junior quarterback Parker Cash (606 yards) were the rushing leaders last year, while Cash also threw for 1,100 yards and seven touchdowns.

 

Senior Michael Bradley accounted for nearly 400 yards of offense and is one of Cash’s top targets.

 

Juniors Lajuan Smith and Hunter Bowles combined for 36 catches and 550 yards.

 

Glasgow lost only four linemen to graduation and will be turning to a large junior class to get the job done in the trenches.

 

Wood has a track record of turning around programs quickly. His teams at Edmonson County and Warren Central made quick ascensions up the playoff ladder. With the numbers he has returning as Glasgow this year, don’t be surprised to see the Scotties advance through the postseason this year as like in days of old.

 

 

Green County (9-4)

Head coach: Mike Griffiths

2009: Lost to Monroe County 39-14 in the region championship game

 

By Josh Claywell

The Elizabethtown News-Enterprise

 

One-half of one of the most prolific backfield tandems in the state last season returns for Green County, which went 9-4 and lost to rival Monroe County in the Class 2A quarterfinals.

 

Junior running back Chavis McDermott, who rushed for 1,734 yards and 17 touchdowns on 194 carries, is one of the top returnees for the Dragons.

 

That's the good news for Coach Mike Griffiths. The bad news is the Dragons have a lot to replace from last year as well.

 

Gone are twins Ricky and Rocky Garrett, quarterbacks John Stone and Tyler Jones, and receivers Jason Shofner and Cody Gupton.

 

Ricky Garrett was the team's second-leading rusher (1,044 yards and 18 TDs), Gupton was the team's second-leading receiver (10 catches, 200 yards, 2 TDs) and Stone threw for 1,075 yards and 10 TDs on 58-of-146 passing.

 

Green County must also replace several linemen in Rocky Garrett, Marty Hammons, Tyler Clifton, Cole Tucker, Keith Bryant and Jacob Herbert, and linebackers Jake Walker and Shofner.

 

The Dragons got off to a quick start last year, going 3-0 with wins over Middlesboro, Taylor County and Butler County. A thrilling 28-27 loss to longtime rival LaRue County, however, seemed to send their season into a downward spiral as the Dragons went 6-4 over their final 10 games.

 

Hancock County (7-5)

Head coach: Chris Morris

2009: Lost to Murray 43-7 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Hancock County appeared to turn the corner a bit in 2009 with their first winning season and playoff win in five years. The season also included a win over district rival Owensboro Catholic.

 

Despite losing top offensive threat Josh Newton to graduation, the Hornets have much of their offense returning, including running backs Luke Case and Eric Doyle, who combined for over 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns.

 

Senior Matt Rapp took over at quarterback and handled the offense well, throwing for 800 yards and seven touchdowns.

 

Tight end Tyler Marvel joins Case as the top receiving targets for Rapp.

 

Senior Jon McCormick anchors a line that saw drastic improvement last year.

 

Heath (4-7)

Head coach: Cory Tilford

2009: Lost to Hancock County 53-23 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Heath lost their do-everything player Tra Tharp to graduation and must rally their team around a new cast of contributors in 2010.

 

Junior Jarrett Rice and senior Kyle Vannerson should see a larger role in the offense this year, with either likely to replace Tharp at quarterback.

 

Cody Rittenberry, Tyler Dunker, Ben Gill, and Thomas Banter give the Pirates and sizable and experienced line on both sides of the football.

 

The biggest asset Heath will have to replace is their speed from last year, especially in the secondary.

 

 

Holy Cross (6-6)

Head coach: Bruce Kozerski

2009: Lost to DeSales 28-20 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Holy Cross never quite could put everything together last season but still took 2A runner-up DeSales down to the wire in the playoffs.

 

This year, the Indians expect to rebuild after most of their offense graduated.

 

Senior Jerry Arlinghaus played some quarterback last year and appears to have the inside track at the job this year. However, the backfield behind him will be all new faces.

 

Eric Walker and Josh Jasper both return at receiver although one or both could move to the backfield. Those two combined for 28 catches last year.

 

Chad and Kyle Fuller are slated to return on defense along with Kyle Knauf and Adam Kozerski.

 

While Holy Cross appears to be rebuilding in 2010, the Indians should still be in good position for a first round home playoff game come November.

 

Knott Central (1-10)

Head coach: Tom Searcy

2009: Lost to Prestonsburg 56-8 in the first round of the playoffs

 

After Jay Cobb decided against a return to Knott Central to take the job at Campbellsville, Tom Searcy was the next choice to inherit the rebuilding job in Hindman.

 

Knott lost 14 seniors to graduation, making an immediate turnaround difficult. Junior quarterback Wes Huff and senior halfback Seth Hall return to power the Knott offense.

 

Defensive leaders include junior middle linebacker Jared Watkins, junior cornerback Jarred Waddles and sophomore tackle Eric King.

 

 

Leslie County (3-8)

Head coach: Eddie Melton

2009: Lost to Shelby Valley 41-0 in the first round of the playoffs

 

With Corbin and Middlesboro dominating District 8 in recent years, the Eagles appear destined to stay in third place even though a strong junior class could help them push a rebuilding Middlesboro squad.

 

Returning starters include junior quarterback Troy Napier (1,443 yards passing a year ago), junior wide receiver/linebacker John Brewer, junior wide receiver Austin Collett and junior tailback Chris Maggard.

 

Blake Bray, a sophomore linebacker, is a leader on defense, along with Morgan and Brewer.

 

 

Lloyd Memorial (4-7)

Head coach: Roy Lucas Jr.

2009: Lost to Christian Academy-Louisville 55-29 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Lloyd Memorial hasn’t had a winning season in six years. Head coach Roy Lucas Jr. is looking to his underclassmen to try and end that streak in 2010.

 

Graduation took its toll on several key positions, but Lucas has some young talent ready to step in and produce.

 

Sophomores Dexter and Dillon Stewart should see a large piece of the Juggernaut offensive pie this year – Dexter at quarterback and Dillon at running back.

 

Jon Danks and Anthony Tolle are the top returning receivers on the team and should get help from Quentin Nunn.

 

On defense, the above listed along with linemen Shawn Goans and Corey Marsh return for a Lloyd Memorial unit that must improve after giving up 37 points a game last year.

 

 

Metcalfe County (4-7)

Head coach: Larry Harbison

2009: Lost to Bardstown 19-0 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Injuries and defections caused a promising season to end in a second straight 4-7 campaign for Metcalfe County. However, the bulk of the team returns for veteran head coach Larry Harbison in 2010, with the Hornets expected to make the district race interesting.

 

Senior Jesse Jones ran for over 600 yards and five touchdowns last year, while senior Luke Saunders could either see time in the backfield or at quarterback.

 

Seniors Lincoln Bell and Matt Blythe are the main receiving targets returning for Metcalfe.

 

But their strength will be up front with the return of several starters on both sides, including Cody Harper, Cameron Lane, Collin Crumpton, and Travis Harper.

 

If the unit sticks together and continues to improve, the Hornets could surprise some people come playoff time.

 

Middlesboro (4-8)

Head coach: Randy Frazier

2009: Lost to Prestonsburg 61-20 in the second round of the playoffs

 

The Yellow Jackets have fallen on hard times of late and former Cumberland coach Randy Frazier, an assistant coach at neighboring Bell County the last several years, was selected to take over the program from former Middlesboro and University of Kentucky lineman Ken Roark.

 

Junior Chase Roark returns at quarterback. Senior linebacker Jon Mikel Evans is back to lead the defense.

 

Also returning are senior center Deven Akers, senior halfback Cody Smith, senior tailback Josh Delouer and senior kicker Patrick Knuckles.

 

Monroe County (10-4)

Head coach: John Petett

2009: Lost to Fort Campbell 30-16 in the state semifinals

 

If not for Fort Campbell, a different set of Falcons would have been playing for the state title the past two years.

 

Monroe County has seen their last two seasons end with two-touchdown losses to Fort Campbell in the state semifinals.

 

With most of their offense returning in 2010, this could be the year that Monroe County finally makes it to the title game.

 

Despite losing All-State receiver Neil Wilson to graduation, the Falcons return just about everybody else, including senior running back Tanner Kendall, who ran for over 1,000 yards and six touchdowns.

 

Senior Dillon Vickery added 539 yards and eight scores.

 

Sophomores Chad Wilson and Taylor Witty may also see some carries this year in what will be a balanced Monroe County attack.

 

Senior quarterback Jackson Arnett took over the reins last year and produced 1,400 passing yards and 21 touchdowns to go with 250 rushing yards and eight more touchdowns.

 

His main targets will be Wilson, Kendall, and senior Trent Tooley.

 

The Falcons also appear to be solid up front with the return of three starting linemen.

 

However, Monroe County has a few more pieces to replace on defense with the loss of several linebackers and linemen.

 

Kendall and Jacob London return in the secondary, and Stephan Bell returns on the line for the Falcons.

 

Monroe County is seeing a high volume of players coming through the program, and that is translating to success on the field. Despite an improved region, look for the Falcons to make a strong bid for Bowling Green in December.

Morgan County (2-9)

Head coach: Brian Turner

2009: Lost to Corbin 40-6 in the first round of the playoffs

 

It’s another season of rebuilding in West Liberty as head coach Brian Turner seeks to replace much if his offense from last year’s team that averaged over 280 rushing yards a game.

 

Sophomore quarterback Larrin Collins is one of the few starters back at the skill positions for the Cougars, who lost their top three rushers to graduation.

 

Sophomore Joe Holbrook and junior Kerrick Kidd should see more carries this year for Morgan County, who also returns top receiver Ryan Flannery.

 

Up front, Jamie Ferguson, Dustin Brewer, and Jeff Smith should give the Cougars a mix of size and experience.

 

After losing 22 of their previous 23 games, a two-win season was a slight step up last year. Turner is hoping his team takes a few more positive steps in 2010.

 

 

Murray (12-1)

Head coach: Steve Duncan

2009: Lost to Fort Campbell 28-21 in the region championship game

 

After years of proving themselves as a Class 1A power, Murray is beginning to make some noise in Class 2A.

 

The Tigers saw their unbeaten season end with a last-second loss to eventual state champion Fort Campbell in the region title game.

 

Head coach Steve Duncan has several key components back from that team to make another strong postseason run.

 

While the Tigers lost 1,500 yard rusher and Murray State signee Brandon Wicks to graduation, they have a good mix of size and speed returning in the backfield to compensate.

 

Powerful running back Matt Deese is the team’s leading returning rusher, while Christian Duncan and Kendall Deese could see time in both the backfield and at quarterback. Deese is the passer of the two, while Duncan is more of a running quarterback.

 

Ian Heskett and Shickill Davis should also see time in the backfield for the Tigers.

 

The Tigers’ strength will be up front with the return of Anthony Banderas (6-2, 250, Sr.), Robbie Jones (5-10, 230, Sr.), and Robert Olive (6-3, 250, Sr.).

 

Duncan and Matt Deese anchor the defense although the Tigers will have several holes to fill in the secondary.

 

Murray is the favorite to win their district and could have enough to get past Fort Campbell in the region should they meet again in the postseason.

 

 

Newport (2-9)

Head coach: Nick Rice

2009: Lost to DeSales 55-8 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Newport took a step back in the win column last year with a 2-9 campaign, which culminated with their third straight losing season.

 

With 17 starters back, the Wildcats looked primed to end that streak and advance past the first round of the playoffs for the first time since 2006.

 

Quarterback Demetri Brown put together a solid year in 2009, throwing for over 1,200 yards and rushing for 700 more. His 24 touchdowns led the team.

 

Also returning in the backfield are Quin McDay, Melvin Calhoun, and Donald Watson, who combined to rush for over 600 yards and six touchdowns.

 

Sophomore Daylin Garland should also see time in the backfield for the Wildcats.

 

Brandon Carter caught 27 passes last year, five for touchdowns. McDay added 14 catches out of the backfield for a pair of scores. Brandon Brown has been moved to tight end to help the receiving corps. Also helping at receiver should be Highlands transfer Andrew Merrill.

 

Up front, the Wildcats return seniors Jamie Waechter, Dinikko Waller, and Fred Denton – all starters last year. Head coach Nick Rice is also high on newcomer Bradley Messer on the line.

 

More importantly, Newport returns eight starters on a defensive unit that must improve from giving up 31 points and 270 rushing yards a game.

 

Seniors Justin Roberts, Daryl Lynch, and Brandon Brown return on the line, while Demtri Brown and Jacob Whaley are back at linebacker.

 

The secondary returns intact, with McDay, Rob Washington, Brandon Carter, and Dionte Glenn combining to pick off six passes last year.

 

“The strength of our team will again be our skilled positions. If all goes well, we should have speed in the positions where it’s needed,” Rice said, adding, “We have the talent to make a run for the district title.”

 

 

Newport Central Catholic (7-6)

Head coach: Bob Schneider

2009: Lost to DeSales 23-10 in the region title game

 

For the first time since Lyndon Johnson was in the White House, there is a new head coach roaming the sidelines for Newport Central Catholic.

 

Bob Schneider stepped down after 44 seasons, which saw him win 345 games and three state championships.

 

Former NCC player and assistant coach Eddie Eviston was tapped to succeed Schneider, and the new coach doesn’t plan to do much different.

 

Most of the coaching staff will remain in place, Eviston said.

Only five starters return on offense for the ‘Breds, led by quarterback Brady Hightchew and running back Chris Kelly.

 

Hightchew completed 58-percent of his passes for 944 yards and ran for 1,100 more.

 

Making the coaching transition smoother is the return of Kelly, who ran for 1,857 yards and 27 touchdowns in the NCC spread attack.

 

Jake Cain and Brian Doyle also give the ‘Breds some offensive weapons at receiver, where they combined to catch 40 passes for over 500 yards.

 

Eviston believes that Dylan Hayes and Mason Myers will help in the backfield, while Nick Woltermann will add depth at receiver.

 

Eviston’s biggest chore will be on the line where Jake Giesler is the lone starter returning. The new coach is hoping for quick contributions from Brady Thacker, Ross Bikenhauer, and Evan Morse.

 

NCC appears in good shape defensively with the return of eight starters.

 

Giesler, Logan Martin, and Jack Gruenschlaeger will make up three of the four linemen in the 4-4 defense, with Morse and Thacker competing for a starting spot.

 

Doyle had a team-high eight interceptions in the secondary but is the lone starter returning there.

 

Kelly, Cain, Brennan Daunt, and Kyle Tallon all return in the linebacking corps for the ‘Breds, who look to improve their defensive numbers after allowing 22 points and nearly 300 yards of offense last year.

 

“Our skill positions on both sides should be our strength,” Eviston said. “We will have to replace a solid senior class whose strength was seen on the line.”

 

NCC has added Aiken, Ohio to the schedule and dropped Simon Kenton for the 2010 slate.

 

“Just like in years' past, we will have some larger school teams to battle early with a few 6A and 5A opponents before we get into our district play. This schedule will allow us to see where we stand and what adjustments we must make to contend for a district title,” Eviston said.

 

 

Owen County (3-8)

Head coach: Adam Fowler

2009: Lost to Covington Holy Cross 48-10 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Owen County improved by one game in 2009, and another three-win season could again be on the horizon for the Rebels.

 

Several key players graduated from last year’s squad, but senior Joseph Wood and junior Cody McDaniel return in the backfield. McDaniel split time at quarterback with senior Luis Sanchez last year.

 

Brandon Rainey returns at linebacker, while Collin Trammell, McDaniel, and Sanchez return in the secondary for Owen County.

 

 

Owensboro Catholic (3-8)

Head coach: John Edge

2009: Lost to Trigg County 41-14 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Owensboro Catholic suffered through the program’s first 3-8 season since 2000, which was also the last time the Aces failed to make it past the first round of the playoffs.

 

OCath’s defense was extremely porous at times last year, giving up 34 points a game.

 

However, the return of 10 starters on defense has the Aces expecting a quick turnaround on that side of the football.

 

Sophomores Logan Cart and Steven Hall, senior Alex Thompson, and Ron Hogg all return as part of the Aces’ 4-2-5 defensive look.

 

Linebackers Paul Lopez, Zach Swift, and Ben Wathen all saw time in the starting lineup last year, as did Isaac Hardesty, Alec Bahnick, and Peyton Booth in the secondary.

 

Head coach John Edge said he expects Joey McIntosh and Derek Raley to see time on the line with Austin Wood settling in at outside linebacker.

 

The potent Owensboro Catholic offense still has some firepower left although they will likely turn the keys to the engine over Isaac Hardesty.

 

Junior Russell Hayden approached 1,000 yards last year and is one of the fastest backs in the state with the football. Chris Vessels should join Hayden in the backfield.

 

The success of the Aces’ offense relies in the receivers in the Franklin offense, with Ryan Hogg expected to join returning starter Ryan Hogg at wide out.

 

“Our line is very young on both sides of the football but very talented. Our weakness will be our lack of depth and lack of experience at defensive back and quarterback,” Edge said.

 

The Aces were forced to start a lot of underclassmen last year and the results were mixed at times.

 

“I realize we were very young, but 3-8 doesn’t cut it. We have worked very hard this winter and spring, and we have to continue to do so all season,” Edge said.

 

 

Prestonsburg (13-1)

Head coach: John Derossett

2009: Lost to DeSales 33-28 in the state semifinals

 

Prestonsburg was one game away from their first state championship appearance in eight years before late heroics by DeSales spoiled their unbeaten run.

 

A return trip to the state semifinals seems unlikely in 2010 given the graduation losses suffered by the Blackcats, but you can never count them out.

 

Much of the offense is gone, but there are still some pieces returning to the puzzle for veteran head coach John Derossett.

 

Junior Joseph Jamerson and sophomore Bryson Williams expect to move into starting roles in the backfield, while Kain Collins may see time at fullback.

 

Prestonsburg lost one of the school’s best quarterbacks in Michael Burchett, who threw for over 3,000 yards last year.

 

Junior Adam Crisp, who saw minimal time in mop up duty last year, appears to be the favorite for the starting job this year.

 

Jamerson was also the team’s leading receiver last year with over 50 catches for nearly 1,000 yards.

 

While the Blackcats have heavy losses at the skill positions, they are in better shape up front with the return of seniors Trevor Stovall and Alex Griffith, and junior Alex Garner.

 

Griffith at linebacker and Jamerson at safety were among the team team’s leading tacklers last year.

 

Nathan Slone and Wes Robinson are a couple of other starters back on defense for Prestonsburg, who open their season Aug. 20 at Belfry.

 

 

Reidland (4-6)

Head coach: Jon Hedges

2008: Missed the playoffs

 

Reidland’s four wins in 2009 were as many as the last three seasons combined, but it still wasn’t enough to make the playoffs.

 

With consolidation looming in the next year or two, the Greyhounds are hoping to make some noise in the final days of the school’s program.

 

Junior Josh Herndon appears set to take over at quarterback, with senior Carlos Rayburn and junior Collin Spink returning in the backfield.

 

Ethan Hobbs and Cody Sullivan return on the line, and Garrett Himzman is back at linebacker.

 

Second-year head coach Jon Hedges has the program headed in the right direction, albeit for the short time the program is in existence.

 

 

Shelby Valley (8-4)

Head coach: Jeff Norman

2009: Lost to Corbin 44-27 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Shelby Valley has now won playoff games in consecutive seasons for the first time, and the 2009 season saw them win eight games for the first time in a decade.

 

However, the Wildcats were hit hard by graduation and saw most of their offense walk out the door on graduation night.

 

Lucas Fields and Logan Lucas are a few of the players returning who saw limited time on offense last year, while junior Zack Norman appears set to take over at quarterback after seeing action in seven games last year.

 

Rusty Roberts is one of the few starters back on defense for the Wildcats, who lost 16 seniors to graduation.

 

 

Todd County Central (0-11)

Head coach: Bryan Jones

2008: Lost to Trigg County 45-14 the first round of the playoffs

 

Todd County’s football program has fallen on hard times, winning just 16 games in the last decade. The Rebels have turned to 26-year-old Bryan Jones to try and turn around the football fortunes in Elkton.

 

Jones was an assistant coach last year in Florida and served as a football intern at the University of Florida.

 

Quarterback Jeffery Boards and receiver D.J. Burgos are among the starters slated to return for the Rebels, who only lost two linemen to graduation.

 

“The two biggest obstacles are participation and dedication. The kids don’t want to be a part of a program that has been losing, and the ones who do participate don’t want to always put in 100-percent because they assume they will get the same result whether they work hard or put in little effort,” Jones said. “The challenge is what led me to take the job.”

 

 

Trigg County (7-5)

Head coach: Shannon Burcham

2009: Lost to Fort Campbell 41-7 in the second round of the playoffs

 

Trigg’s County sandwiched a season in between losses to a pair of state champions. They opened with a loss to Tennessee Class 1A state champ Union City and finished with a loss to Kentucky 2A champion Fort Campbell.

 

In between, they won seven of 10 games, including a six-game winning streak.

 

The Wildcats were able to run the football better than expected, having three backs with over 600 yards. One of those – fullback Akeem Wilson – returns in the backfield for the Wildcats in 2010.

 

Also back is senior quarterback Andrew Stewart, who threw for over 700 yards and could be a bigger part of the rushing attack this year.

 

Hakeem Tyler and Toddrick Wilson should also see more time in the backfield this year.

 

Nick Watkins led the Wildcats in catches last year and returns in the Wildcat receiving corps.

 

Trigg County lost several All-Conference linemen but do return seniors Chris McKenzie and Dimas Cmela and junior Nick Wright.

 

Jaron Gilbert and Deondre Wilson return in the secondary, while both Wilsons and Stewart return on defense.

 

The Wildcats are always able to put speed on the field, but the key to the season will be how much talented size they can put in the trenches.

 

 

Washington County (3-8)

Head coach: Mark Perry

2009: Lost to Monroe County 42-7 in the first round of the playoffs

 

Washington County hasn’t had a winning season in four years, and it has been a baker’s dozen since the Commanders have won a playoff game.

 

Both streaks could end this year with the return of several key starters from last year’s 3-8 team.

 

One position that will see a new face is quarterback where junior Trae Abell appears ready to step into the starting role.

 

Quan Turner returns in the backfield after rushing for over 1,100 yards and catching 14 passes. Also back are senior Ben Simmons and junior Kyle Curtsinger, who combined to catch 50 passes and four touchdowns.

 

Simms and Conner Riney are back in the secondary, and linebacker Tyler Coulter led the team in tackles.

 

If a talented junior class makes contributions across the field this year, look for Washington County to turn things around.

ttt