The Scribe

Going back to 1950, here you go -- 14 - Henderson County 8 - Madisonville and Christian County 7 - Hopkinsville 4 - Lyon County 3 - Todd County Central 2 - Union County, UHA, Livingston Central, Trigg County, Madisonville Rosenwald 1 - Hopkins Central, Caldwell County, South Hopkins, Providence, Hopkinsville Attucks, Earlington, Dotson, Crofton, Charleston, Guthrie

Scoreless still?

Score?

For the first time in five years, there are major changes in store for the alignment of the First Region. The creation of McCracken County caused the 14 schools to be aligned closer to geographical lines. All four Paducah schools are now in the Second District, with St. Mary leaving the Third District and Community Christian exiting the Fourth. The Third and Fourth Districts will now be three-team districts meaning the regular season champ gets an automatic trip to the region tournament by virtue of being seeded into the championship game of the district. Graves County is the defending region champion and the coaches’ pick to repeat their trip to Rupp Arena, although Calloway County received a couple of first place votes in an informal poll. 1. Graves County (27-9) The Eagles rolled through the region and snapped Marshall County’s two-year title streak by knocking off Calloway County in the title game. With three starters back, the Eagles are the favorite to make a return trip to the Sweet 16. Peyton Puckett (6-3, Sr.) led the Eagles in scoring at 13.9 points a game and 5.6 rebounds, while Jake Williams (6-3, Sr.) added 11.5 points. The inside game is anchored by Zach Kimbler (6-3, Sr.), who averaged 9.8 points and grabbed 4.9 boards a contest. 6-5 Senior Eric Vogt should also see time in the paint. The Eagles have some depth in the backcourt with the return of 5-11 senior Justin Hayden (3.1 ppg.) and 6-1 junior Andrew Smith (2.7 ppg.). Terry Birdsong enters his seventh season on the bench having won five of the last six district titles. The veteran coach is skilled at developing depth which may set the Eagles apart in the region once again. 2. Calloway County (23-9) Teams will have a tough time matching up with the front line of Calloway County, who could go 6-7, 6-7, 6-8 if they choose. Senior Michael Arnett (14.5 points, 6.2 rebounds) led the Lakers in scoring last year as Calloway fell to Graves in the region title game. He will be joined by 6-7 senior Skylar Hunter, who averaged 9.5 points and 7.8 rebounds a contest. The Lakers could also throw 6-8 Tristan Crady inside to go big or for depth against foul trouble. The Laker backcourt is solid with the return of 6-4 junior Parker Adams, who scored nearly 14 points a game. 6-2 junior Connor Wagner (9.5 ppg.) and junior Wade Carter (6.8 ppg.) will join Adams in the guard rotation. The Lakers have more size than Graves, but the Eagles have the edge in the depth department. If Calloway County develops depth, they could unseat the Eagles and make the school’s second-ever trip to Rupp Arena. 3. McCracken County The winds of change blew through McCracken County and saw the closures of Lone Oak, Heath, and Reidland. Burlin Brower, who was 86-60 in five seasons at Heath, takes the reins of the new Mustang basketball program. “The kids get along great, and they are still learning how to use each other to get scoring opportunities,” Brower said. “Our guard play should be good with three guys who could be top ten in the region.” Senior Jared Burnett averaged 16.1 points for Reidland last year. Junior Caleb Stonecipher scored 11 a game for Heath, and senior Kam Chumbler scored 10 a contest for Lone Oak. Each guard brings something different to the floor for the Mustangs, which makes them a tough team to defend. Brower is expecting big seasons from two big men he coached at Heath last year – 6-3 senior Bryce Rodgers and 6-4 junior Jason Armstrong. “Bryce has the quickness and motor to be a tough match up for area post players, while Jason has the strength to become a major factor,” Brower said. It will be interesting to see how Brower uses his depth as the season wears on, especially against the bigger teams in the region. 4. St. Mary (19-14) The Vikings return one of the region’s top scorers in Patrick Hubert, who averaged 20.3 points a game while shooting 40-percent from 3-point range and 79-percent at the free throw line. Three other starters are back for Greg Overstreet’s squad. Wes Averill (4.4 ppg., 3.3 rpg.), Harrison Dickens (5.8 ppg.), and point guard Mason Vaughn (2.8 ppg.) give Overstreet some experience at the different spots on the court. The Vikings should also get some production from McCall Overstreet (2.2 ppg.), Tyler Dome (2.7 ppg.), and Ben Hopper. Overstreet, who begins his 11th season as head coach of the Vikings, points to the seven seniors on his roster and the chemistry they have as a reason why they are a top five team in the region. 5. Marshall County (26-6) The Marshals’ bid for a fourth straight district title fell short to Calloway County 54-51. The loss stuck Marshall County against a district champ in the region tournament where they were ousted by Graves County. Gus Gillespie welcomes back three starters to a squad that will be better offensively but not as deep. 6-6 senior center Austin Rentfrow is the top returning scorer at 13.9 points a game. He also averaged 8.5 rebounds a game. He will be joined on the frontline by senior Mason Wooten, who scored 5.5 points a game. The backcourt will take on a different look with the graduation of top scorers Chase Clark and Noah Steele. Sophomore D.J. Pigg and freshman Dawson Jolly will be pressed into play early as the Marshals try and solidify their backcourt. Drew Warrick and Collin Travis will join Wooten and Rentfrow on the frontline. The Marshals should be better offensively with their experience in the post and better shooting. However, they won’t be as deep a team as Marshals fans are accustomed to seeing. 6. Paducah Tilghman (12-19) Paducah Tilghman suffered through their first losing season since 2005 and saw their streak of seven straight district titles come to an end. A deep run into the football postseason also means some of Brad Stieg’s key players will be late to the hardwood once again. 5-10 guards Sayveon McEwen and Andre Strayhorn are two of the three returning starters for Tilghman. 6-3 forward Mikey Davis will join the squad once football season is over. Stieg also expects increased production from a trio of 6-2 sophomores – Jesse Dunigan, Brannon Warfield, and Devon Hart. 6-4 8th grader J.J. Reed may also work his way into the rotation early. “We will be a deeper team than last year and more versatile,” Stieg said. “We will be quick and better shooters, but our lack of size inside is a concern.” 7. Mayfield (18-12) With just one returning starter, Mayfield will take on a new look when the full team hits the floor. In his 12th season as head coach, Chris Guhy knows it will usually be mid-December before he gets to see his full squad due to the dominance of the Mayfield football program. Taye Love is a quick guard who finishes well in transition and is the lone starter back from last year’s team. Marshall Bacon and Lane Kennemore also saw a considerable amount of playing time last year. The Cardinals will have a bit more size than they are accustomed to. 6-5 swingman Haley Ballard can shoot from the outside, and 6-6 Kyle Downing gives the Cardinals a strong inside presence. Jake Guhy, the quarterback on the football team, also gives Mayfield some depth at guard along with juniors Nick Felts and Dylan Reed. “We should be a good shooting team. We have several guys who can shoot the 3-pointer,” the Mayfield coach said. “We will also be able to go with good size when we need to. But we aren’t as quick and won’t be able to apply the defensive pressure that we often can.” With several key players on the football team, it may after Christmas before they get into full basketball shape. If that timetable holds up, expect the Cardinals to challenge St. Mary for the First Region All-A Classic title. 8. Murray (12-18) Murray finds itself in a situation like Mayfield – a deep football postseason run keeping key people off the hardwood. Seniors Dylan Boone and Kendrick Lee are two key people back from last year’s 12-18 squad. Sophomore Tre Hornbuckle gives the Tigers some size inside, and senior Dylan Upchurch is one of the few guards returning with much game experience. Head coach Joey Adair will look to a large and talented group of freshmen and sophomores to fill some gaps in depth as the season progresses. 9. Ballard Memorial (6-23) Like most teams in the region, Ballard Memorial returns a solid crew on their frontline. However, inexperience at the guard position may plague the Bombers early. 6-3 junior Dre Bledsoe (7.5 ppg., 3.2 ppg.) is the top returning scorer for second-year head coach Matt Botner. Junior twins Clay Newton (6-3, 6.6 ppg., 2.3 rpg.) and Cody Newton (6-2, 7.9 ppg., 3.0 rpg.) give the Bombers a scoring punch down low. Ballard must find a way to replace the 18 points a game that graduated with shooting guard Clay Chandler. Junior Lee Chandler, sophomore Keagan Cooper, and senior Trevor Langston will be called on to fill out the backcourt for Ballard Memorial, who now find themselves in a tough three-team district with Mayfield and Graves County. 10. Fulton County (6-15) Mitchell Williamson is one of two new coaches in the First Region this year. He takes over for Andrew Clinton, who won 64 games in six seasons. Williamson has four starters back from a six-win team and thinks the Pilots have a shot at surprising some people in both the First District and First Region All-A race. Senior forward Octavious averaged 11.9 points, while fellow forward Joe Holman scored eight a contest. Junior guard Steven Roberson scored 10 points a game last year and will be joined in the backcourt by freshman Davis Major. “Our defense will be intense and quick,” Williamson said. “We just have to be able to handle the pressure other teams throw at us.” 11. Carlisle County (22-10) The region’s most veteran coach will earn his paycheck this year as Brian O’Neill enters his 17th season as Carlisle head coach having to replace his top four scorers from last year’s district champion team. Gone are Marcus Burnett and Derik Elliott, who proved to be a solid 1-2 scoring punch for the Comets. O’Neill will have to work his magic with a roster full of guards and not much size. 5-10 sophomore guard Ethan Weatherspoon (4.2 ppg.) is the top returning scorer. 5-9 sophomore Noah Norsworthy averaged three points a game, and junior guard Trey Carrico are expected to see the bulk of the time in the backcourt. Sophomore Paxton Crider and 6-1 senior Chase French should also challenge for starting spots. 12. Fulton City (10-17) Fulton City lost the bulk of their scoring punch from last year in the form of Jordan Miller and Khalil Frame, who combined to average 34.2 points and 22 rebounds for coach Jimmy Long’s squad. The Bulldogs will rely on youth and quickness in 2013-14,led by returning senior guards Blake Roach and Bryan Johnson. The Bulldogs’ roster also features four freshmen who could see some considerable playing time. 13. Hickman County (15-10) Erick Blalock takes over a Hickman County program looking for their first district title since 2006. Despite graduating their top two scorers from a 15-win season, the Falcons expect senior guard Billy Speed to shoulder the scoring load. Speed averaged 14 points last year. 6-0 seniors Ryan Harpole (5.5 ppg.) and Harley Hinshaw (3.7 ppg.) lack size but give Blalock some valuable experience at the forward slot. 14. Community Christian (10-21) Perhaps the biggest loser in the region realignment was Community Christian, who jump from the Fourth District to the Second with Paducah Tilghman and McCracken County and small school St. Mary, who is usually among the favorites to win the All-A region. Head coach B.B. Kendrick enters his sixth season with some returning parts from last year’s 10-21 record. Senior Hunter Rommelman and junior Jonathon Wingfield return in the backcourt, while 6-4 junior Braden Smith and 6-1 junior Cole Smith are back on the frontline. Top Players in the First Region Patrick Hubert (St. Mary – 6-2, Senior, Guard) – One of the top scorers and deep shooting threats in the region. Also ducks inside and grabs seven rebounds a game. Michael Arnett (Calloway County – 6-7, Senior, Center) – Solid post presence who should benefit from an experienced returning backcourt. Austin Rentfrow (Marshall County – 6-6, Senior, Center) – Hard worker in the paint and runs the floor well. Peyton Puckett (Graves County – 6-3, Senior, Forward) – Puckett, who is also the quarterback of the football team, led the Eagles in scoring at 13.9 points a game and 5.6 rebounds last year. Parker Adams (Calloway County – 6-4, Junior, Guard) – The swingman can shoot outside or post up inside and cause match up problems for defenses. Skylar Hunter (Calloway County – 6-7, Senior, Forward) – Hard worker inside that could average a double-double this year. Zach Kimbler (Graves County – 6-3, Senior, Forward) – Some coaches expect Kimbler to have a break-out season for the Eagles. Jake Williams (Graves County – 6-3, Senior, Guard) – Williams should pick up more of the scoring slack in the backcourt for the Eagles this year. Caleb Stonecipher (McCracken County – 6-0, Junior, Guard) – Played at Heath last year and should benefit from the increased talent in the backcourt this year at McCracken County Jared Burnett (McCracken County – 6-0, Senior, Guard) – Led Reidland in scoring last year at nearly 16 points a game. Most Wins by Coaches at Their Current School 258 – Brian O’Neill (Carlisle County 229 – Brad Stieg (Paducah Tilghman) 220 – Gus Gillespie (Marshall County) 165 – Chris Guhy (Mayfield) 143 – Greg Overstreet (St. Mary) 142 – Terry Birdsong (Graves County) 104 – Bruce Lane (Calloway County) 86 – Burlin Brower (Heath, now McCracken County) 43 – B.B Kendrick (Community Christian) 35 – Jimmy Long (Fulton City) 23 – Joey Adair (Murray) 6 – Matt Botner (Ballard Memorial) Most First Region Titles 23 – Paducah Tilghman 8 – Graves County 7 – Marshall County 7 – Mayfield 6 – Carlisle County 3 – Murray 2 – Fulton City 1 – Calloway County 1 – Hickman County

Last year, Hopkinsville was one of the more overwhelming favorites to win the region in recent memory. After a near-upset to Madisonville in the semifinals of the region, the Tigers handled Henderson County to claim the region title and advanced to the state final four. The Tigers return senior big man Jaqualis Matlock and add guard Quan Poindexter from cross-town rival Christian County. Henderson County and Madisonville both return key players to challenge Hopkinsville. The two wildcards are University Heights and Caldwell County. The Blazers will benefit from several transfers while Caldwell welcomes back Elijah Sindelar, who averaged 17.6 points and 9.4 rebounds as a freshman. 1. Hopkinsville (33-5) The Tigers used their athleticism to claim their second straight region title and made it to the final four before falling to eventual state champion Madison Central. While Hoptown will have to replace their leading scorer Jordan Majors, they return 6-5 forward Jaqualis Matlock, who averaged 14.9 points and 9.7 rebounds as a junior. He will team with 6-6 senior Jamonte Davis (6.5 ppg., 5.3 rpg.) to form one of the stronger front lines in the region. Expect senior guard Trey Edwards (10 ppg., 3 rpg.) to have a breakout season. Edwards played in the shadow of Majors last year, but came up clutch several times for the Tigers. Hoptown adds Christian County transfer Quan Poindexter to the mix after he was just ruled eligible to play by the KHSAA. The 6-5 senior averaged 13 points and five rebounds last year. A pair of seniors, Demarius Cager and Dee Henry, will give the Tigers depth in the backcourt, while freshman C.J. Henangan could break into the rotation early. The Tigers don’t have the size and depth of last year’s team, but certainly have enough to make another run at Rupp Arena. 2. Henderson County (26-6) If there is a team poised to knock off Hopkinsville from atop the region, it’s Henderson County. The Colonels return four starters for Tyler Smithhart’s squad that lost to Hoptown 59-46 in last year’s region final. “Our biggest strengths will be our experience, perimeter shooting, depth, and ability to rebound,” Smithhart said. “We have two seniors that averaged close to double digit rebounds as juniors and all of our guards have a knack for rebounding the ball and getting out in transition.” 6-3 senior Kaleb Duckworth garnered all-district and all-region honors after averaging 10 points and nine rebounds a game. Duckworth is also one of the state’s top baseball players, signing recently to play college baseball at Western Kentucky. Duckworth is joined in the post by 6-5 senior Cain Cooper, who shot 58-percent from the field while scoring nine points and grabbing seven rebounds a game. Junior D.J. Washington established himself as one of the better guards in the region after averaging nine points a game. However, his quickness and court presence shown through, handing out four assists and grabbing three steals a game. Junior David Simmons led the Colonels in scoring with 13 points and five rebounds on his way to all-region honors. Smithhart said junior Brady Norman (7 ppg.), senior Isaac Carter, and junior Bryce Crowley give the Colonels a solid rotation. “Our weaknesses include lack of overall height and at times last season, an inability to score consistently in a half court game. In addition, losing the leadership and defensive prowess of the 5 seniors we graduated will be a challenge for this year’s team,” said Smithhart. The Colonels have come up short in the region championship game eight times since their last title in 1999. If they can stay healthy and the depth proves solid, they have a good chance of unseating Hopkinsville atop the region standings. 3. Madisonville (18-13) The Maroons came within a point of upsetting Hopkinsville in the semifinals of the region tournament and return one of the top sophomores in the state. 6-1 Javion Eaves is one of three starters back for the Maroons, who won the Seventh District title in head coach Matt Beshear’s first season on the bench. Eaves averaged 7.7 points during the regular season but put on a show in the region tournament, scoring 23 points and grabbing seven rebounds in the semifinal loss to Hopkinsville. Senior guard Alex Gray (5.5 ppg.) and senior forward Ross Thomas (8.3 ppg., 6.7 rpg.) also return, while Ivonta White, who didn’t play last year, gives the Maroons added speed and quickness. Jaylen Mason (5.5 ppg.) and Albert McFarland also figure to factor in the rotation. 4. University Heights (13-13) You will definitely need to buy a game program to keep up with the changes to the Blazer roster this year. UHA opened Grant Shouse’s first season with seven straight losses before rebounding to win 13 of their last 20, including another Second Region All-A title. The Blazers will have the deepest backcourt in the region with the return of seniors Dashion Brown and Lamontas Johnson. The duo led the Blazers in scoring last year, and their quickness allows UHA to play a pressure defense. The Blazers also picked up Lyon County transfer Jordan Gary, who averaged 11 points at Lyon County as a sophomore last year, and Christian County transfer Tray Hollowell, expected to be one of the top freshmen in the state. Junior Ledonald Gray also started some last year at guard when Brown went down to injury. 6-4 senior Darrius Mumford returns to a front line bolstered with the addition of 6-7 Trigg County transfer Jonta Acree and 6-4 freshman Jaylen Sebree, who played in Christian County’s feeder program in middle school. “Our experience and depth are our strengths,” Shouse said. “But our chemistry will be a key. We all need to accept our roles and rotation.” How well the new additions mesh together will determine how far the Blazers go in the postseason and in All-A competition. The influx of transfers hasn’t gone unnoticed in the region, however, as one coach took the Blazers off their schedule when one of his players initially moved out of state but ended up at UHA. 5. Caldwell County (12-19) The biggest wildcard in the region is Caldwell County. The Tigers were expected to be a factor in the region, but a couple of players didn’t come out for the squad which left Caldwell to finish 12-19. The Tigers were still a buzzer-beater away from advancing past the first round of the region tourney. Junior Elijah Sindelar, who is well-known for his exploits on the football field as one of the state’s top quarterbacks, is back for the Tigers on the hardwood. As a freshman, Sindelar averaged 19.6 points and 7.4 points as a freshman and can play all five positions on the floor. 6-8 senior Eli Pepper gives the Tigers some inside presence. He scored 16 points and grabbed 18 rebounds in their region tourney loss to Trigg County. The Tigers will also have more speed and quickness than last year with the return of Dee Cain, Josh Young, Damonta Hopson, and Luke McCarty in the backcourt. If there is one positive from Caldwell County’s earlier-than-expected exit from the football playoffs, it’s that second-year head coach Daniel Kukahiko will get several players on the hardwood before Thanksgiving. Caldwell County also has some talent at the lower levels. After winning just 30 games the past five seasons, things appear to be on the upswing in Princeton. 6. Union County (16-14) The one school teams are always leery of playing is Union County. The Braves always have one of the better defensive teams in the state. After coaching at Ballard Memorial and moving to Union County last year, Nick Chaykowsky takes over the reins in Morganfield. His son Zack is one of four returning starters for the Braves. The younger Chaykowsky earned all-region and all-district honors after averaging 12.5 points and 3.5 assists last year. He is joined in the backcourt by Jashaud Fleming, who scored 11. 7 points and grabbed 5.5 rebounds a game. Coach Chaykowsky will also rely on seniors Czaja McGuire and Jarrell Foster, who both averaged four points a game. The Braves expect 6-3 senior Kyler Floyd, 6-6 senior Alex Strunk, and 6-4 sophomore Peyton Moshier to comprise the frontline. “Leadership and guard play will be a huge strength for our team,” Chaykowsky said. “We gave up 44 points a game last year and return our best defensive players.” Union County is helped with having eight seniors on the squad. 7. Trigg County (20-9) Payton Croft is one of three new coaches in the Second Region, joining Nick Chaykowsky at Union County and Rex Booth at Hopkins County Central. Croft inherits a Wildcat squad that returns two starters from last year’s region semifinal team that lost to Henderson County 70-60. One thing Croft has done is change the work culture of his new team. An off-season weightlifting and conditioning program is expected to pay off for the Wildcats. “Our leadership has been great. The guys have brought a relentless attitude and mentality to practice on a daily basis,” said Croft, who will be joined on the bench by his father Jimmy who won Fifth District titles at Crittenden County and Livingston Central. The Wildcats welcome back sharpshooter Cole Gardner, who averaged 12.4 points and was one of the top three-point shooters in the state. Senior Corbin Estes can play either guard spot after averaging six points a game. Sophomore Demaria Nance, the younger brother Deonquez who graduated as the school’s all-time leading scorer, is expected to take over at the point guard position. The Wildcats will be helped on the frontline by 6-4 Brien Dossett, who played at Trigg County as a sophomore and at Hopkinsville last year. Luke McKenzie, who averaged 7.3 points as a sophomore but didn’t play last year, should also contribute in the post. “As a first year coach, there is always a concern for younger players having to learn a new system. So far, they have adapted well,” Croft said. 8. Christian County (15-15) This year’s preseason was little less chaotic than last year for Christian County. A coaching change made right before the start of the season saw assistant Kyle Eades move into the interim role. After a 15-15 season that saw the Colonels lose to Henderson County 63-56 in the first round of the region tournament, the interim tag was removed from Eades’ label. One of the top priorities for Eades will be to replace four starters. Senior guard Isaiah Pollard is the lone returning starter after scoring six points a game last year. 6-5 junior Devon Wharton was bothered by injuries during football season but should help provide an inside game for the Colonels. Senior DeAndre Mosby and junior A.J Tyler, who started some down the stretch last year, should see the bulk of the time in the backcourt. The Colonels lost two starters to schools inside their district. How quickly the underclassmen can step into their new roles will determine the fate of the Colonels’ season. 9. Webster County (19-14) Webster County lost 90-percent of their scoring and still won 19 games last year. Jon Newton will try and pull off a similar feat this year. The team’s three double-figure scorers graduated, leaving the Trojans with big gaps to fill. Senior forward J.D. Newton is the top returning scorer at 6.5 points and 3.4 rebounds a game. Junior guard Mason Roland (5.9 ppg.) and senior forward Madison Melton should also crack the starting lineup. The Trojans don’t have much size, which will put them at a disadvantage in a district with Henderson County and Union County. However, head coach Jon Newton has shown the ability to craft inexperience into talent by season’s end. 10. Hopkins County Central (9-22) Rex Booth takes over a Hopkins County Central program that has won just 56 games in the past five seasons and hasn’t won a region tournament game since 2009. “This team has size and athleticism. There are four or five guys over six feet than can handle and shoot the basketball and cause mismatch problems for our opponents,” Booth said. Booth is high on junior guard Shelby Myers, who added 15 pounds in the off-season. Sophomore Tyrek White will handle the point guard spot after starting at the freshman and JV level. “I feel like he could be one of the best guards in the region. He has all of the tools to be an outstanding guard over the next three years,” Booth said. Up front, 6-4 senior Reid Scott is the lone returning starter for the Storm. 6-3 senior Trevor Troutman should also break into the starting lineup. “We have to have more discipline on defense,” said Booth, who pointed out that Hopkins Central gave up more points on defense than any region team last year. “We have to help more on defense.” 11. Lyon County (15-17) Jeff Embrey begins his seventh season as Lyon County head coach as the longest-tenured coach in the region. His career mark with the Lyons is 104-73. The Lyons return three starters from last year’s district runner-up, including junior guard Jericho Wilkerson. The Lyons also welcome back guards Tyler Martin (6-1, Sr.) and Brandon White (5-9, Jr.) and 6-4 forward Zach Polston, who started a third of Lyon County’s game last year. Embrey likes the experience his team has but says their lack of size is a big concern. Freshmen Nick Gilbert and Josiah Wilkerson will likely see time in the rotation for the Lyons. 12. Fort Campbell (6-17) The revolving door at Fort Campbell means you never know who will be on the Falcon roster from one season to the next. Second-year head coach Stacey Harrell will be counting on junior Isaiah Washington to be one of the team leaders after scoring nearly nine points a game last year. Washington suffered an arm injury late in the Fort Campbell football season but should be ready to go for hoops season. Jonathon Hamilton was a nice surprise as a freshman, averaging 8.4 points for the Falcons. 13. Livingston Central (5-24) The rebuilding effort continues for Kyle Yates at Livingston Central, although the Cardinals have enough experience returning to maybe make a surprise run in the Fifth District. Leading scorer Austin Woodward returns in the backcourt along with Austin Wright. Dalton Gilbert is expected to give the Cardinals some backcourt depth. Colton Ramage and Jordan Miller return inside along with Tanner Rodgers. “We return 90-percent of our scoring and rebounding and can really shoot the basketball,” Yates said. “I’m concerned with how well we can rebound. We lost a lot of games last year because teams were stronger than us.” 14. Crittenden County (15-16) Despite returning just one starter, Crittenden County expects to have more depth than last year’s team that showed signs playing with some of the better teams in the region. Point guard Aaron Owen is the lone returning starter and leading scorer for the Rockets. “We’re a better shooting team than last year, and we have more depth,” said Denis Hodge, who is 26-36 in his third season as head coach. Landon Young and Dylan Hicks will see time in the backcourt, while Devin Belt, Noah Dickerson and Dakota Wilson will see time on the frontline. “We lost a lot of experienced players from last year, and we have several newcomers that will be asked to make an impact,” Hodge said. 15. Dawson Springs (6-25) Dawson Springs has won 24 games the past five seasons, and the rebuilding effort will continue for third-year head coach Jeff Miller. Sophomores Austin Stevens and Jeremiah Adams are expected to be the main contributors for the Panthers, who lost their top three scorers from last year’s 6-25 team. Top Players in the Second Region Jaqualis Matlock (Hopkinsville, 6-4, Sr.) – One of the top inside players in the paint last year and should be a bigger part of the offense this year. Presents a huge match up problem defensively. Trey Edwards (Hopkinsville, 6-2, Sr.) – Played in the shadow of Jordan Majors last year, but should have a breakout season this year. One of the region’s top defensive guards. Kaleb Duckworth (Henderson County, 6-3, Sr.) – Just a guy who brings his hard hat and lunch pail to the paint every game. Also one of the top baseball players in the state. Quan Poindexter (Hopkinsville, 6-5, Sr.) – The rich get richer at Hopkinsville as Poindexter brings his slashing style to a Hopkinsville offense that can showcase it. David Simmons (Henderson County, 6-3, Jr.) – Much like Duckworth, except a better scorer inside and out. Elijah Sindelar (Caldwell County, 6-4, Jr.) – Returns to the hardwood after a year off. Averaged 19 points and seven rebounds as a freshman and can play anywhere on the floor. Javieon Eaves (Madisonville, 6-1, Soph.) – Put on a show in the region tournament last year and will be expected to have a breakout season this year. Lamontas Johnson (University Heights, 5-11, Sr.) – One of the quickest guards in the region who should benefit from the influx of talent to the UHA roster. Zack Chaykowsky (Union County, 6-1. Sr.) – He plays the way you would expect a coach’s son to play. Led the Braves in scoring and assists last year. Eli Pepper (Caldwell County, 6-8, Sr.) – Pepper should benefit from the return of Sindelar and an experienced backcourt as teams can’t sag in against him. Most Wins in the Region the Last 10 Years 215 – Henderson County 192 – Hopkinsville 187 – University Heights 182 – Christian County 177 – Madisonville 169 – Trigg County 158 – Webster County 128 – Lyon County 122 – Hopkins County Central 119 – Union County 116 – Livingston Central 107 – Crittenden County 104 – Caldwell County 84 – Fort Campbell 59 – Dawson Springs Most Wins in the Region the Last 5 Years 114 – Hopkinsville 107 – Henderson County 100 – Christian County 91 – Lyon County 88 – Trigg County 84 – Madisonville 80 – Webster County 74 – University Heights 64 – Livingston Central 64 – Union County 56 – Hopkins County Central 52 – Crittenden County 30 – Caldwell County 25 – Fort Campbell 24 – Dawson Springs Most Wins at Current School 104 – Jeff Embrey (Lyon County, 6 years) 81 – Tim Haworth (Hopkinsville, 3 years) 39 – Jon Newton (Webster County, 2 years) 26 – Tyler Smithhart (Henderson County, 1 year) 26 – Denis Hodge (Crittenden County, 2 years) 17 – Jeff Miller (Dawson Springs, 3 years) 18 – Matt Beshear (Madisonville, 1 year) 15 – Kyle Eades (Christian County, 1 year) 13 – Grant Shouse (University Heights, 1 year) 12 – Daniel Kukahiko (Caldwell County, 1 year) 6 – Stacey Harrell (Fort Campbell, 1 year) 5 – Kyle Yates (Livingston Central, 1 year) Most Second Region Titles 17 – Christian County 14 – Madisonville 6 – Dawson Springs 6 – University Heights 6 – Hopkinsville 3 – Henderson County 3 – Union County 2 – Trigg County 1 – Caldwell County 1 – Hopkins County Central 1 – Livingston Central 1 – Lyon County 0 – Fort Campbell 0 – Crittenden County 0 – Webster County

I think Murray tanked their game plan in the October meeting, knowing they would get another shot at Caldwell. You don't want to be unbeaten and play Murray in the playoffs. 2013 - Caldwell County 12-0 -- Murray wins 27-14 2012 - Owensboro Catholic 11-0 -- Murray wins 29-22 in 2 OT 2011 - Owensboro Catholic 12-0 - Murray wins 17-14

Final

South Warren has a game-winning field goal hit the upright. Tilghman hosts Wayne County next week

So the one year Trinity and St. X loses early, Simon Kenton follows suit

Matt Elam left this game with a knee injury

Final - Bulldogs move on

Pulaski up 32-22 after 3Q

Final

29-14 Butler

Still 21-6 Owensboro

Belfry up 43-0

Anybody have a complete list for each district? The coaches' association website hasn't been updated in two years.

Central Hardin to the region title game for the first time since 1997

There were no real surprises in the first round of the playoffs in the western end of the state. In fact, the brackets held to form with a few near upsets, but out of 24 first round games in this end of the state, 16 had running clocks by game’s end. There should be fewer running clocks and more questions answered in the second round. Class 1A Mayfield and Russellville each had easy first round wins. Mayfield should have another easy week, and the Panthers should take care of business against Bethlehem although it could be closer than some predict. Russellville (9-2) took care of business early, scoring the game’s first minute and going on to hammer Kentucky Country Day 55-6. The win avenged a second round loss to the Bearcats last year. The Panthers shined on special teams, returning both a punt and blocked punt for a score. Russellville travels to face Bethlehem (9-1), who crushed Fulton City 56-12 last week. The Eagles’ lone loss was to Paris back on Oct. 4, and a win would move them into the region title game for the first time since 2006. Russellville is 2-0 all-time vs. Bethlehem. As expected, Mayfield (10-1) had no trouble with Caverna in the opener, holding the Colonels to -26 rushing yards and returning two interceptions for touchdowns. The Cardinals will host Louisville Holy Cross (6-5), who scored two touchdowns in the game’s first two minutes and returned two blocked punts for scores in their 62-0 win over Fulton County. Mayfield has never lost to Holy Cross in four career playoffs meetings, including 38-14 last year. Look for Mayfield and Russellville to meet for a second time this year. Class 2A Both top seeds in Class 2 were dominant in their first round playoff wins. Caldwell County (11-0) held Hancock County to less than 100 yards of offense in their 55-6 opening round win. Junior quarterback Elijah Sindelar completed 9-of-13 passes for 249 yards and four touchdowns. Union County (9-2) also put together a dominant defensive effort in their 42-7 win over Ballard Memorial, holding the Bombers to 76 total yards. Jarrell Foster ran for 178 yards and two scores, and Heath O’Nan added 173 yards and a touchdown. Union County only attempted one pass in the game. The Tigers and Braves met back in August, with Caldwell County coming away with a 57-20 win. Caldwell held Union to eight rushing yards in the game, with Union quarterback Davis Joiner completing just 17-of-44 passes for 276 yards. On the other hand, the Union defense held Sindelar to 12-of-24 passing and picked off the Tiger quarterback twice. Caldwell County was hampered by 178 penalty yards in the first contest. Union County is looking to advance to the region title game for the first time since they went to the state semifinals in 2008 Caldwell County would be making consecutive region title appearances for the first time in school history with a win. For the fourth straight season, Murray and Owensboro Catholic meet in the postseason. The Tigers won last year’s game 29-22 in double overtime, handing OCath their only loss of the season. Two years ago, Murray knocked off OCath 17-14 in overtime. In 2010, the Aces handed Murray their only loss of the year, winning 29-22. Indications are this year’s matchup will be another classic. Murray (7-4) beat Butler County 38-12 with Dylan Boone accounting for three touchdowns – one each throwing, rushing, and with a pick six. Owensboro Catholic (9-2) hammered Crittenden County 50-7 as Aces’ quarterback Houston Hartz was 18-of-21 passing for 358 yards and seven touchdowns to six different receivers. Owensboro Catholic only had 81 rushing yards against the Rockets and will have to do better on the ground against Murray. However, Murray must improve their pass defense, which has been suspect at times this year. Look for a Caldwell County-Owensboro Catholic showdown next week. Class 3A Both Paducah Tilghman and South Warren posted easy first round wins as their expected showdown for the region title is just a week away. Tilghman (6-5) raced out to a 34-0 halftime lead over Adair County on their way to a 41-7 win. D.J. Sherrill ran for 115 yards and three scores, and Darius Spivey-Nunn caught two touchdowns as the Tornado had 227 total yards and held Adair County to 88. Tilghman will host Monroe County, who overcame a pair of 14-point deficits to escape with a 35-34 win over Trigg County. Monroe County used a 12-play, 76-yard drive to score with 34 seconds left and then added the two-point conversion for the win. Carlton Huff rushed for 143 yards and scored the game-winner as the Falcons rushed for 295 yards in the game. Sophomore Lincoln Arnett threw for 186 yards and added 45 on the ground. Tilghman looks to avenge last year’s 28-20 loss to Monroe in the second round. On the other side of the bracket, South Warren (10-1) was their usual dominant defensive self in their 49-7 win over Webster County, holding the Trojans to just 64 yards rushing. For the season, the Spartans give up just 53 yards and 3.2 points a game. Jay Eblen ran for three scores and passed for two more in the win. Sparty will face a Fort Campbell squad they beat 24-7 last year. The Falcons (5-6) were impressive in a 48-7 opening round win over Edmonson County, rolling up 465 yards of offense. Triston Luke ran for 158 yards and three touchdowns, and Christian Berry added 93 yards and a score. It will be interesting to see if South Warren can contain the Falcon running backs, especially when Fort Campbell inserts Jonathon Jethroe at quarterback. Class 4A Owensboro (8-3) rolled to a 48-6 first round win over Breckinridge County as quarterback Nick Loucher ran for two touchdowns and threw for three more. The Red Devil defense also held Breckinridge County to -17 yards on the ground. They will face a Warren East team that welcomed one player back and lost another key player for the season. The Raiders (7-4) beat Calloway County in the opener as quarterback Austin Pagel returned from an injury that sidelined him since the first game of the season. However, running back Eli Brown is likely done for the year with a knee injury. Warren East knocked off Owensboro 14-7 last year on their way to the state semifinals. The Red Devils are gunning for their first region title berth since 2008. Franklin-Simpson (7-4) carries a five-game winning streak into their home game with Madisonville this week. The Wildcats have outscored their opponents 220-35 during the streak. The Wildcats hammered Hopkins County Central 50-0, holding the Storm to 20 yards of offense. Quarterback Colton Hurt completed 6-of-7 passes for 90 yards and two touchdowns, and Isaiah Hall added 94 yards rushing and a score. Meanwhile, Madisonville won a first round game for the third straight year for the first time in school history. The Maroons (6-5) got three touchdowns from Ryan Bowman as they hammered Allen County-Scottsville 52-28. Class 5A Bowling Green has won 40 straight games. The last team to beat them was Christian County in 2010. The teams square off again in Bowing Green Friday. The Colonels (5-6) would need a titanic effort to beat the Purples on their home field. Christian County did just enough to beat Barren County in a first round game 26-12 last week. Meanwhile, the Purples (10-0) were busy hammering Apollo 49-7. Christian County is hoping a tough schedule down the stretch will prepare them for Bowling Green. Graves County (9-2) had a tougher than expected game with Greenwood, before pulling away 56-42. Cody Crider rushed for 191 yards and three touchdowns, giving him 1,700 yards and 22 TDs for the season. Peyton Puckett added 197 passing yards and two more scores. Graves will host Warren Central, who is coached by former Eagles head man Mike Rogers. The Dragons (6-5) got three rushing and one receiving touchdown from Rondell Green in their 48-10 first round win over Hopkinsville. Graves County has never advanced to the region title game, and they are 0-6 all-time vs. Warren Central in the postseason. Class 6A McCracken County (9-2) made quick work of winless Boone County in the first round, jumping out to a 42-0 halftime lead and coasting to a 55-10 win. While the offense gets most of the pub for the Mustangs, it was their defense that limited Boone County to five rushing yards in the game. Jordan Troutman rushed for 140 yards on just nine carries and two scores for the Mustangs. McCracken County will host Central Hardin (10-1), who buried Daviess County 48-0 in the first round behind a balanced offense and a defense that held the Panthers to 103 total yards. Central Hardin advanced to the region championship game in both 1991 and 1997 but have won just three of 10 playoff games in the past 16 years. When Henderson County (9-2) and Meade County (9-2) meet in Brandenburg, it may come down to who scores first. Henderson allows just 19 points a game (16 if you take away the loss to McCracken County), and Meade gives up just 9.3 points. Richard Carter threw for 228 yards and three touchdowns for Henderson in their 55-13 win over Muhlenberg County. Meade County has won five straight games and will be looking to reach their first region title game since 2007.

Monroe County is going to have a tough time running against Tilghman. Trigg's run defense has been porous at times this year. If Tilghman watches last night's game film, I expect them to throw the ball a lot, which wouldn't make any sense to me given what they have in the backfield. But that's the beauty of Tilghman. You never know what they are going to do. I think Tilghman wins because their defense will keep Arnett from getting wide on them, something Trigg couldn't stop. Plus, you have to factor in the road trip as well. Should be a good game though

Gutsy call to go for two points, but the way Monroe was running the football, it was the right call. Little things matter in the playoffs. Trigg jumped offsides on the 2pt conversion which made it an easier than normal run. Then the UC penalty after the conversation meant the final play was a 38-yard pass attempt for Trigg to win instead of a 40-yard FG try for the win. Trigg's kicker made one from 42 yards last week. Good luck to the Falcons next week at Tilghman

Trigg County has to stop the run and get Monroe off the field on third down. Trigg's secondary has gotten better but is still prone to giving up long passes on third down. Special teams will also hold a key to the game. I didn't feel good about going to Monroe two years ago. I didn't feel good about going to South Warren last year. I feel better about the trip to Tompkinsville this year, but Trigg has to play from ahead. If they fall behind early, it may be another early exit.

When the curtain falls in Bowling Green next month, there is a good chance that three state championship trophies will make their way back to western Kentucky. The wildcard is the new McCracken County High School, which will have home field advantage throughout the Class 6A playoffs and presents an unknown for their opponents. Like McCracken County, the other contenders for the state title will have home field advantage, which will be a major factor in how far they advance. Class 1A Mayfield (9-1) saw their 23-game winning streak snapped in the final week of the season to Class 2A number one Caldwell County. The setback isn’t expected to derail the title hopes of the Cardinals, who should cruise to easy wins in the first two rounds of the playoffs. Mayfield hasn’t lost a first round playoff game since 1975 and have won four straight region titles. The Cardinals are led by Jake Guhy, who has put up solid numbers in his senior season. Running back Stuart Mills has proved to be a legitimate go-to guy on the ground, while receiver Deion Jackson is a threat to score through the air and on special teams. The big advantage for the Cardinals is the talent gap in the first two rounds of the playoffs that will allow them to rest any inured starters in advance of a possible region title showdown with Russellville. Caverna (2-8) just wrapped up the program’s ninth consecutive losing season and have won four games the past three seasons. The Colonels have never won a postseason game outside of 8-man football. Mayfield won last year’s playoff match up 56-6. Mayfield would likely face Louisville Holy Cross (5-5) in the second round at War Memorial Stadium. The Cougars won four straight games before a tough district loss to Bethlehem 35-28. They were shut out by Bardstown 42-0 last week. Last year, Mayfield overcame a sluggish start to beat Holy Cross 38-14, ending the Cougars’ season for the third straight year. Russellville (8-2) won eight straight games to start the season for the first time since 1984 but ended the regular season with losses to Mayfield and South Warren. Quarterback Barrett Croslin left the South Warren loss with a leg injury but is expected to be ready to play this week. Backup quarterback and second-leading rusher Tacorian Darden also didn’t play in the South Warren game. Interestingly, Russellville advanced to the region title game three times in the four years they played up in Class 3A. They haven’t played for a 1A region title since 1994. The Panthers would like to exact some revenge on Kentucky Country Day (5-5), who bounced them from the postseason 27-12 last year. However, the Panthers have to guard against a possible trap game in the second round when they will play at Bethlehem in advance of a showdown with Mayfield in the region championship. Bethlehem (9-1) has flown under the radar of many with a two-point loss to Paris the only blemish on their record. If Russellville is healthy, they should be able to overcome the long road trip in the second round and advance to a region title game for the fourth time in six years, setting up another showdown with Mayfield in the region title game. Russellville is 0-2 all-time vs. Mayfield in the playoffs with first round losses in 1996 and 2000. Class 2A Caldwell County (10-0) capped off an unbeaten regular season with an impressive 48-41 win over Mayfield last week. The Tigers had already secured home field advantage throughout the playoffs, but keep in mind; the Tigers had to win on the road at DeSales in the state semifinals last year. Tiger opponents will have to slow down an up-tempo Caldwell offense led by junior quarterback Elijah Sindelar, who passed 8,000 career yards passing in the win over Mayfield. Sindelar already owns school records for completions (541), passing attempts (882), yardage (8,203) and passing touchdowns (86). For the season, Sindelar has thrown for 2,549 yards with 35 touchdowns and just five interceptions. Caldwell will host Hancock County (2-8) in the first round, a team they have never lost to in four career meetings. The Tigers could see Union County (8-2) in the second round. The Tigers beat the Braves 57-20 in the Crittenden County bowl game back on Aug. 31. Sindelar didn’t have one of his better games against the Braves, completing just 12-of-24 passes for 171 yards. He also threw two of his five interceptions this year in that game. Union County should get past a Ballard Memorial team in the first round that lost three of their last five games after a 5-0 start. The Bombers can score (38 ppg.) but have struggled to stop good teams defensively, giving up 51 points a game in their three losses. Murray (6-4) is a two seed but won’t have much of an advantage against a solid Butler County team whose three losses were to ranked teams. Butler County has stiffened up on defense, allowing just 22 points the last four weeks. Murray must find a way to contain the two-quarterback system of Butler County. Jimmy Burns has thrown for 933 yards and seven touchdowns, while Bryce Shanklin has thrown for 857 yards and nine touchdowns and added 478 yards and 10 scores despite being dinged up at times this season. If Murray’s ball control offense can keep Butler’s offense off the field, they should advance. After not winning a playoff game from 1991-2007, Butler County has won three of their last eight postseason games. On the other hand, Murray has won nine of their last 13 playoff games. Friday will be the first postseason game between the two schools. Owensboro Catholic (8-2) should have no problem with Crittenden County in the opener. That could set up yet another classic showdown with Murray, the team their postseason fate has been linked to the past three seasons. The Tigers won last year’s game 29-22 in double overtime, handing OCath their only loss of the season. Murray also won the 2011 region title game 17-14 in overtime. In 2010, it was Owensboro Catholic who handed Murray their only loss of the season in the region title game. Caldwell County beat Murray 42-13 on Oct.18. If the Aces come to Princeton for the region title three weeks deep, there could be over 800 passing yards in the game between Elijah Sindelar and Houston Hartz, who has thrown for 2,873 yards and 33 touchdowns. Owensboro Catholic has won four of the five career postseason meetings with Caldwell County. Class 3A Fans in this bracket are pretty much forgoing the first two rounds of the playoffs and looking ahead to a potential region showdown between Paducah Tilghman and South Warren. There isn’t a team outside of Louisville and northern Kentucky that has played a tougher schedule than Tilghman, whose five losses were to Evansville Reitz, Mayfield, Graves County, Highlands, and Henderson County. The Tornado also handed McCracken County one of their two losses this year and breezed through the district by outscoring their opponents 116-19. Tilghman (5-5) should have no trouble with Adair County (4-6) in the first round. The Indians lost to Tilghman 57-14 in last year’s first round and have never won a playoff game in seven career appearances. The best first round game should be in Tompkinsville where Trigg County (5-5) plays at Monroe County (7-3) for the second time in three seasons. Trigg will be looking to snap a four-game postseason losing streak that has seen them score just 34 points in the four games. The Wildcats will have to stop the balanced Monroe rushing attack that features four running backs with over 75 carries. South Warren (9-1) has shut out six of their ten opponents and allowed just 25 points for the entire season. Webster County (1-9) averages 11 points a game on offense and is struggling through a nine-game losing streak. The Spartans would likely see Fort Campbell (4-6) in the second round. The Falcons have the playmakers to score but not the size and depth up front to sustain it for an entire game. Tristan Luke has been bothered by a nagging leg injury and has still rushed for 1,120 yards. But the Falcons have struggled defensively, giving up 33 points and 363 yards of offense a game. Tilghman would host a likely showdown with South Warren. The Spartans fell in last year’s region title game to Monroe County. Tilghman saw a streak of four straight appearances in the region title game end last year. Tilghman has the size and speed to match South Warren. They also have the running backs who can power and speed their way to yards, something other teams who have played South Warren have struggled with. If Tilghman brings their ‘A’ game, they should beat South Warren and win their fifth regional title in a decade. Class 4A Owensboro (7-3) is far and away the favorite to win this region, helped by hosting the playoffs as long as they win. The Red Devils have to shake off a tough loss to Henderson County in the regular season finale that saw them lose an 11-point lead with five minutes left. They should have no trouble with Breckinridge County (1-9), who picked up their first win of the season last week over Class 2A Hancock County. Breckinridge County lost to Owensboro last year 56-0 and hasn’t won a playoff game since 2000. Warren East brings a 6-4 record into their first round game with Calloway County (5-5). The Raiders have won three straight games heading into the postseason, while the Lakers have won five games against teams that have won seven games. The Raiders should have no trouble getting their fourth consecutive win. Topping Owensboro in the second round will be a tougher challenge. The unknown of the bracket is Madisonville. The Maroons (5-5) have adjusted to the loss of the quarterback T.J. Phaup to injury and have won three of four down the stretch. They host an Allen County-Scottsville team headed in the other direction. The Patriots (4-6) ended the season with three straight losses. Madisonville averages 30 points a game offensively, while ACS gives up 30. Madisonville won last year’s first round match up 21-6. Franklin-Simpson (6-4) was impressive in district wins over Warren East and Allen County-Scottsville which landed them the top seed in the district. They host a Hopkins County Central team that has lost 25 straight games and hasn’t won a playoff game in a decade. The Wildcats should carry a five-game winning streak into their second round home game with Madisonville. Class 5A It’s Bowling Green’s region. Let’s just go ahead and skip to Class 6A But seriously. Bowling Green carries a 39-game winning streak into the postseason. Their last loss came to Christian County in 2010. The Purples (10-0) are the overwhelming favorite not only to win the region, but win their third straight Class 5A state title. Unless they make a stunning postseason run, Christian County (4-6) is looking at their first losing season since 2001. The Colonels have been bothered by injuries, most notably to standout safety Devon Wharton who is gone for the season. Wharton had three interceptions in six games, with two of those returned for a touchdown. The Colonels should get past Barren County (4-6) in the first round. In fact, Christian County has ended Barren County’s last four postseason appearances. The Trojans only have one career playoff win, that coming in 1992. They will try and snap a 13-game playoff losing streak Friday. Graves County (8-2) is district champs for the second straight season, and they get to avoid Bowling Green for the first two rounds. The Eagles open with an inconsistent Greenwood team that finished 3-7 and failed to score double figures in half their games. Graves County will be looking to advance to the region title game for the first time in school history. The team that knocked Graves County out of the postseason last year, Warren Central, hosts Hopkinsville in the first round. The Dragons (5-5) finished the season strong, winning five of seven. Their only losses were to number ones Highlands and Bowling Green. They face Hopkinsville (4-6), who is looking for the school’s longest postseason drought in 20 years. Hoptown’s last postseason win was in 2008. Warren Central won last year’s first round game with Hopkinsville 67-7. Class 6A One of the main criticisms of six class football is the travel distance in first round playoff games. Need proof? Ask Boone County how they feel. The Rebels (0-10) will drive 300 miles to face Class 6A newcomer McCracken County. Boone will then likely travel the 300 miles back to Florence with their first winless season in a long time. The Rebels are one of four 0-10 teams that will get to play in a postseason game this year. The Mustangs (8-2) enter the postseason winners of eight straight games and are averaging 45 points a game behind the play of sophomore quarterback Zyaire Hughes. As long as McCracken County wins, they get to play at home. However, they could face a tougher than expected second round game with Central Hardin. The Bruins’ only loss came to Meade County, and their slate features impressive wins over Collins, Madisonville, and Bullitt East. Central Hardin (9-1) faces Daviess County (6-4) in the first round. Muhlenberg County (6-4) has wrapped up the program’s first-ever winning season. Their reward is a first round game at Henderson County (8-2), whose only losses are to ranked teams McCracken County and Covington Catholic. Meade County (8-2) has flown under the 6A radar for most of the season. Their two losses came to John Hardin and Male. The Green Wave give up just nine points a game and have allowed 19 points in their current four-game winning streak. Their task will be to stop a Marshall County team that has a record of 1-9 but is averaging 31 points a game on offense the past three weeks. Don’t be surprised to see Meade County sneak out of this region and advance to the state semifinals.

Yes. And there may be a new number one or two....

The Class 2A playoff race appears to be top-heavy with only a handful of teams having a legitimate shot to bring home the championship trophy. Making matters tough is the fact the 2013 playoff road will likely run through the home fields of last year’s finalists – Caldwell County and Newport Central Catholic. Region 1 Top-ranked Caldwell County (10-0) is the prohibitive favorite to come out of the west, helped by the fact they will get to play at home through the first four rounds of the playoffs. Caldwell has won 10 straight playoff games dating back to last year and 11 of their last 12. The Tigers capped off the regular season with an impressive 48-41 win over Class 1A power Mayfield, rolling up over 600 yards of offense. Most of the chatter surrounding Caldwell County is centered around junior quarterback Elijah Sindelar and junior back Jalyn Boyd. However, Sindelar throws to a much underrated receiving corps that does not have a main target. Five different receivers have 20 or more catches in the Tiger offense that averages over 50 points a game. If there is a chink in the Caldwell County armor, it may be their defense. The Tigers give up 20 points a game, including 146 yards per game through the air. The Tigers should have no trouble in the first two rounds of the playoffs, facing Hancock County (2-8) and a likely second round game with Union County (8-2), who they beat 57-20 back in the second week of the season. However, it should be said that Union County has improved throughout the season, winning eight of their final nine games. Their only loss in that span was a one-point district loss to Owensboro Catholic. If Union gets past high-scoring Ballard Memorial in the first round, they would accomplish just the school’s fifth 9-win season in 50 seasons of Union County football. Owensboro Catholic (8-2) and Murray (6-4) are the favorites to claim first round victories, although Murray has the toughest opening round game. Butler County (7-3) has three losses to ranked teams and gives up just 15 points a game. Despite the long road trip from Morgantown, don’t be surprised if the Bears pull off the first round upset. REGION PREDICTION – Caldwell County 45 Owensboro Catholic 31 Region 2 This will be the most exciting region to watch with four teams, given the right circumstance, having a shot at coming out standing tall. DeSales (9-1) and Christian Academy-Louisville (9-1) are the favorites to meet for the region title. DeSales has the more powerful offense (48 ppg.), while CAL has the stingier defense (8.9 PA). In their first matchup CAL won 27-24, DeSales ran for over 250 yards but couldn’t stop the Centurions’ passing attack as Nathan Christmas threw for 214 yards and four touchdowns. Because they play opposite a three-team district, CAL gets a first-round bye and will play the winner the Bardstown-Green County contest. If CAL wins that game to advance to the region final, they would tie a school record for wins set by the 2002 team. Bardstown (8-2) may be the best three seed in the smaller classes thanks to district losses to DeSales and CAL. The Tigers enter the postseason on a four-game shutout streak and blanked Green County (5-5) 26-0 back in the opening week of the season. The wildcard in this region is Glasgow (9-1), whose only loss was to Somerset. The Scotties feature a balanced offensive attack led by running back Marquez Trigg. Glasgow has allowed just 27 points the last four games and should have no trouble with Washington County (4-6) in the first round. Glasgow would like another shot at DeSales in the second round of the playoffs. The Colts came away with an odd 10-2 win over the Scotties last year on their way to the state semifinals. A second round win by Glasgow would mean another home game in the third round. REGION PREDICTION – Christian Academy-Louisville 21 DeSales 20 Region 3 Just go ahead and send the region trophy to Newport Central Catholic. Gallatin County (8-2) and Walton-Verona (8-2) would like to think they have a shot to knock off the ‘Breds in the playoffs, but it just isn’t happening. After stumbling to a 1-4 start and losing four games to larger teams that have a combined record of 27-13, NCC (6-4) has rallied to win their final four games capped off with a 34-31 win over rival Beechwood. Newport (5-5) and Gallatin County are playing good football down the stretch and should meet in the second round. Walton-Verona (8-2) could be a team to watch but it is hard to get a read on them because of their soft schedule. Like we said before, just send the region trophy to Newport Central Catholic. There’s nothing to see here. Please disperse. REGION PREDICTION – Newport Central Catholic 48 Newport 7 Region 4 Call this the ‘Forrest Gump Bracket’ because, like a box of chocolates, you just don’t know what you are going to get. Middlesboro (8-2) is the top seed and they get to host in the first two rounds. But this is a region that saw Middlesboro beat Danville (5-5), who beat Somerset (5-4), who beat Middlesboro. And then you have Prestonsburg (5-5), the other top seed, who beat Betsy Layne, who is 9-1 but beat nobody during the season. If Middlesboro wants to make a deep run, their defense must get better. The Jackets give up 22 points a game and allowed an incredible 77 points in a loss to Class 1A Pikeville. Somerset is Jekyl-Hyde at best but should benefit by entering the postseason off a bye week despite a first-round game at Betsy Layne. The Bobcats didn’t play a postseason game until 2008 and have lost all four of previous postseason games. Prestonsburg should have the easiest path to the region finals with a first round game against Lexington Christian (1-9) and a likely second round game with an inconsistent Danville team. You can pretty much put the top four teams in hat and draw out a region champion. Here goes…. REGION PREDICTION – Somerset 35 Prestonsburg 26 STATE SEMIFINALS – Caldwell County 42 Christian Academy-Louisville 33 Newport Central Catholic 27 Somerset 7 CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION – Caldwell County 48 Newport Central Catholic 42