2007 Class 4A Kentucky High School Football Preview

[The Scribe]

1. Lexington Catholic (10-2)
Head coach: Bill Letton
2006: Lost to Covington Catholic 56-49 in the 3A region title game (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22574&id=&action_name=)

By Jessica Rouse
Bluegrasspreps.com

While Lexington Catholic, ranked one of the KHSAA tops 25 scoring teams in 2006, lost three key offensive players to graduation, including the quarterback, the Knight’s spread offense will be strong, starting with their offensive line.

The offensive line returns senior tackle Sam Plomin (6’3, 295), senior center Andy Mahoney (6’4, 285), senior guard Robert Sweiterman (6’0, 245) and senior tackle Ben Hume (6’4, 245). The line also returns sophomore guard Lloyd Amos (6’2, 240) who gained experience last year against Covington Catholic.

Also returning for the Knight’s offense is star senior running back Shane Israel (5’7, 185), who had 174 attempts for 1,398 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2006.

The team rushed for 1,799 net yards last season. Israel was ranked in the KHSAA top 25 scoring leaders in 2006. While Israel will be the guy, Lexington Catholic is gaining depth at the running back position with three sophomores in Lee Ramsey, Ryne Least and Greg Raglin.

Returning starter Daniel Vogelsang (6’3, 215), a junior tight end, had 226 receiving yards last season and three touchdowns.

Returning starter Winston Guy (6’2, 195), a senior, is listed as a wide receiver for 2007, but had 2 attempts for zero yards last season.

However, Guy did average 37 yards in kick-off returns for a total of 333 yards and one touchdown last season. Guy also averaged 18 yards a punt return for 72 total yards.

Guy made an impact last season on the defensive side of the ball as well at strong safety with 33 total tackles, five sacks, three hurries and a blocked kick. Returning at the free safety spot is Will Letton (6’2, 195) had 34 total tackles last season and one interception for 41 yards.

Nick Vicini (6’3, 205), a senior, returns at outside linebacker. Vicini led the team in tackles last season with 60 total tackles, four sacks, one interception, four break-ups, one blocked kick and one fumble recovery.

Senior inside linebacker Braden Mann (6’2, 215) returns and had 34 total tackles last season, two break-ups and one caused fumble. Junior Jake Conner (6’1, 180) returns at outside linebacker and had 31 total tackles, three sacks, two interceptions (one for a touchdown) a fumble recovery and a blocked kick.

The defense returns two senior defensive ends in Andres Rodriquez (5’10, 230) and Zach Yoko (6’4, 240), Rodriquez with 26 tackles, two fumble recoveries and a caused fumble and in 2006. Yoko has 19 tackles.

Senior defensive back John Meikel (5’10, 170) returns and had 20 tackles last season with one interception for 37 yards, two fumble recoveries and three break-ups. The Knights will play a 3-5 defense this season.

Other players too watch for will be junior Kevin Ebbitt (6’3, 190) at defensive back and sophomore quarterback Nick Ward (6’0, 190).
The Lexington Catholic Knights scored 4,867 net yards last season, 1,150 more than opponents.

The head coach of Lexington Catholic is Bill Letton.

Lexington Catholic’s last state title was in 2005 under Bill Spire with a 49-21 victory over Bowling Green.

Lexington Catholic is a private school serving city of Lexington in central Kentucky. The school was formed in 1951 through the merger of St. Catherine’s Academy and Lexington Latin High, according to the school’s website.

Click here for the 2007 Lexington Catholic schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24683&action_name=)

2. Bell County (9-3)
Head coach: Dudley Hilton
2006: Lost to Rockcastle County 13-0 in the second round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?id=22470)

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Despite adding two classes and redistricting the entire state, Bell County and Rockcastle County find themselves in the same district once again, which suits head coach Dudley Hilton just fine. The placement gives his Bobcats the motivation they need to try and end a streak that has seen Rockcastle County end Bell County’s season in the playoffs four times since 2001.

With 15 starters returning to Log Mountain, Hilton and the Bobcats are looking to end that streak.

Bell County has eight starters returning to a balanced offensive attack that featured a 1,200-yard passer and rusher.

Kyle Nelson (6-2, 190, Sr.) returns under center for the Bobcats after throwing for 1,508 yards and 13 touchdowns last year. The Bobcats coaches were pleased with his development at quarterback and expect a big season from the senior.

Running back T.R. Christopher (6-0, 205, Sr.) adjusted well to the starting role and rushed for 1,233 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Juniors Spencer Greer (5-11, 175, Jr.) and Shawnta Zachery will also be key cogs to the Bell County attack.

On defense, junior linebacker Matt Simpson (5-10, 195, Jr.) is one of five starters back along with Greer and Nelson.

If Bell County is to make any noise in November, they will need their line play to get better after struggling against bigger teams last year.

Jacob King (5-11, 285, Jr.), Christian Madison (6-0, 215, Sr.), Brad Slusher (6-2, 215, Jr.), and Shawn Henderson (5-9, 205, Sr.) will be looked at to improve a line that will hold the key to their success.

Hilton enters his 32nd season as head coach and could become one of three coaches to pass 300 career wins this year. Hilton needs just seven wins to become only the second coach to reach the milestone. Belfry’s Phillip Haywood (292) and Male’s Bob Redman (288) could also reach the mark in 2007.

Click here for the 2007 Bell County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?id=24579)

3. Boyle County (6-6)
Head coach: Chris Pardue
2006: Lost to Southwestern 18-9 in the second round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22480&id=&action_name=)

Boyle County fans aren’t accustomed to six-win seasons. The last time that happened was 1993, but don’t expect it to happen again in 2007.

The young players Rebel head coach Chris Pardue used last year are now a year older and stronger as Boyle County embarks on 4A football in a new district that includes East Jessamine, West Jessamine, and former 3A nemesis Lexington Catholic.

Quarterback Bryce Perry (6-2, 170, Sr.) returns for a Rebel offense that had no trouble scoring points unless the opponent was Southwestern.

Cole Stevens (5-9, 160, Sr.) returns to the Boyle backfield, while Jacob Enlow (6-0, 175, Sr.) is back at receiver.

However, the focus this year is on the defensive side of the football where the Rebels allowed an uncharacteristic six games with 20 or more points.

Pardue was forced to start as many as seven sophomores on defense last year. He’s hoping the group – defensive ends Kameron Finchum and Jordan Walker, linebackers Ron Crutchfield, Ben Slone and Ryan Coffey, safety Jordan Aumiller, and cornerback Bret Marshall – have matured enough to become a more solid unit.

That group, along with end Zane Hilton (5-11, 230, Sr.) and Blake Robbins (5-10, 220, Sr.) should make a 180-degree turn on defense.

Of course, the Rebels will find out how much they have improved on the season’s first five games against Bowling Green, Henry Clay, Danville, Lafayette, and Lexington Catholic.

Click here for the 2007 Boyle County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24590&action_name=)


4. Franklin County (9-3)
Head coach: Dennis Ledford
2006: Lost to Lexington Catholic 44-38 in the second round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22531&id=&action_name=)

Two of Franklin County’s three losses in 2006 came to eventual 3A state champion Lexington Catholic by a total of nine points.

Despite the loss of their coach and All-State performer Kaelin Ammons, the Flyers again have high expectations thanks to a truckload of experience returning and the new district alignment that helps them in both district and possibly region play as well.

New coach Dennis Ledford, who has been a Flyer assistant the past five years, takes over a program that returns eight players who started at one time on each side of the football.

While Franklin County won’t be able to replace Ammons’ 3,211 passing and 1,276 rushing yards, he has some experience back at the skill positions.

Jacob Proctor (6-1, 165, Sr.) and Terry Metcalf (5-9, 175, Sr.) are returning in the backfield, while Deron Hicks, Gabe Jones (5-10, 160, Jr.), and Chris Hogan (6-0, 180, Sr.) return at receiver.

Senior Erik Jarboe and sophomore Sean Thompson appear the frontrunners for the quarterback job.

On the line, Ledford should have the services of Nick Farler (6-1, 240, Sr.), Austin Jones (5-10, 175, Sr.), Kyle Kratzer, and Willie Smither (6-0, 240, Sr.) – a unit Ledford calls the strength of the team.

On defense, Jones, Farler, Smither, and Jeremy Barnett return up front. Hogan, Metcalf, and Pat Brown will be the linebackers, and Hicks and Jones return in the secondary.

Ledford was also hopeful that some players who have been in the program in the past come back out for football this year.

The new coach has also brought former Frankfort coach Joey Thacker on as offensive coordinator this year.

The new alignment definitely favors the Flyers, who will play in a four-team district with teams that combined to win eight games last year.

“We were also able to expand our schedule and add some tough competition such as Lafayette, Woodford County, and Oldham County and still keep old rivalries such as Frankfort, East Jessamine, and Harrison County.

Click here for the 2007 Franklin County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24641&action_name=)

5. North Bullitt (7-4)
Head coach: Brett Newton
2006: Lost to Central 28-19 in the first round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22609&id=&action_name=)

North Bullitt returns a wealth of experience and appears ready to get past the first round of the playoffs for the first time in a decade.

The Eagles return eight starters on both sides of the football and feature one of the best underclassmen in the state.

The North Bullitt offense revolves around junior Dalton Cissell (5-10, 190, Jr.), who rushed for 2,143 yards and 18 touchdowns, averaging nearly nine yards a carry. With defenses keying in on the quick back, head coach Brett Newton will rely on quarterback R.D. Reynolds, who proved to be a multi-threat on the field.

Reynolds (6-2, 205, Sr.) ran for 550 yards, threw for 450 yards, and accounted for another 200 receiving. He’s also a stud on defense at linebacker where he averaged eight tackles a game last year and looks to add to his career interception total of 12.

Up front, the Eagles have an experienced line in front of Cissell and Reynolds.

Corey Dowling (6-1, 285, Sr.), Darrell Parker (6-1, 270, Sr.), and Ivan Tischendorf (6-3, 265, Jr.) all return.

Nate Hall, Brandon Daniels (6-1, 180, Sr.), and Brandon Combs (6-3, 225, Sr.) are back at receiver.

North Bullitt will try to be a stingy unit once again on defense after giving up just 11 points a game last year and showing they were solid against the run.

Daniels and Jimmy Blandford (6-4, 275, Sr.), the leading tackler at defensive end, return on defense. Daniels, who has started 32 consecutive games on defense, will lead a solid group of linebackers.

D.J. Elmore (6-1, 220, Jr.) will also play linebacker.

With eight players who have started for two or more years, North Bullitt should have the most experience in the new district. However, they have been bounced from the playoffs in the first round each of the last two years. Newton is hoping a beefed up schedule gets the Eagles ready for the postseason.

“It’s nice to play in a four-team district after spending the last four years in a district with eight and nine teams,” Newton said. “We should be poised to make a deep run in the 4A playoffs this year.”

Click here for the 2007 North Bullitt schedule
(http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24717&action_name=)

[The Scribe]

6. Rockcastle County (11-2)
Head coach: Tom Larkey
2006: Lost to Johnson Central 29-7 in the 3A region title game (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22635&id=&action_name=)

After Rockcastle County reached double-digits in wins for the sixth time in eight seasons, head coach Tom Larkey enters his 27th season with just eight starters from last year’s 11-2 squad.

The biggest loss may be realized on the line where four starters graduated, as did the Rockets’ top rusher (Dusty Miller) and receiver (Shawn Childress).

Larkey has Scott Daugherty (6-1, 285, Sr.) and Derek Thacker (6-5, 285) back to rebuild a line around.

Junior speedster Cody Mize and sophomore Dakota McFerron will likely split time in the backfield with junior Casey Hayes.

Sophomore Dustin Bishop is expected to take over the reins at quarterback. Tanner Perkins will be one of his main targets this year.

On defense, Hayes and Zach Burkhart (6-1, 185, Sr.) return at linebacker where they combined for over 100 tackles last year.

Larkey expects to plug some other holes with several other talented juniors on his roster.

While Rockcastle County’s streak of 21 straight winning seasons doesn’t appear to be in jeopardy in 2007, they will have to gel quickly in an improved district if they are to be in the postseason position that guarantees them their best shot at knocking off Bell County once again.

Click here for the 2007 Rockcastle County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24743&action_name=)


7. Bullitt East (6-4)
Head coach: Mike Settles
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22486&id=&action_name=)

A winning record overall (6-4) and in district play (5-3) still wasn’t good enough for Bullitt East to make the playoffs in 2006, ending a steak of eight straight postseason appearances for the Chargers.

With 16 returning starters and a new district alignment that guarantees a playoff berth, head coach Mike Settles is looking to again return the Chargers to their past prominence in recent years.

Bullitt East returns their starting backfield from a year ago. Tony Knox (6-0, 180, Sr.) ran for 678 yards and seven touchdowns, while Claine Risinger (6-0, 160, Jr.) added 368 yards and seven scores for a Charger offense that averaged almost 200 rushing yards a game.

Four starting linemen and a tight end are among the eight starters back on the offensive side of the football as well.

Center Michael Bozarth (6-0, 210, Jr.), tackle Zach Aubrey (6-0, 200, Sr.), and guards Phillip Rutledge (5-11, 215, Sr.), and Remy Burton (6-0, 205, Jr.) join with tight end Thomas Payne (6-1, 200, Sr.) to make an experienced front five.

Replacing graduated quarterback Travis Broughton will be a tough task for Settles, who believes senior Steven Johnson (6-0, 175) is ready to step in and not miss a beat.

Nathan Brooks (6-3, 180, Jr.) should be one of Johnson’s top targets.
Johnson will be one of nine starters back on defense, with six of the nine juniors.

The secondary features Johnson, Risinger, Curtis Logsdon (5-9, 175, Jr.), and Nate Hanson (6-0, 175, Sr.).

Chad Ferrill (5-6, 210, Sr.) and Bozarth are back at linebackers in the 4-4 defense, while Burton, Robby Curtsinger (5-11, 205, Jr.), and Matt Gootee (6-0, 220, Jr.) return on the line.

Bullitt East escapes a nine-team district comprised of mostly Louisville schools and moves into a new one that features cross-town rival North Bullitt, neighboring Larue County, and Marion County.

Click here for the 2007 Bullitt East schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24596&action_name=)

8. Valley (9-3)
Head coach: Roger Deskins
2006: Lost to Central 31-6 in the second round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22663&id=&action_name=)

Valley won nine games last year after winning nine games the previous six seasons combined.

The Vikings lost some of their top talent from last year, but the cupboard isn’t actually bare in 2007.

Junior running back Gerwin Brewer was among the team leader in receiving, and seniors Julius Denson (5-10, 185) and Donte Brownlee (5-10, 175) should be among the team leaders in offense this year.

Valley featured a small line last year, and will be a little bigger this year behind William Smith (5-8, 260, Sr.) and B-Bop Smith (5-9, 285, Sr.).

While the Vikings lost several playmakers from last year, a new district alignment should find Valley in the playoffs in consecutive seasons for the first time since 1998.

Click here for the 2007 Valley schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24772&action_name=)

9. Warren East (10-2)
Head coach: Ben Bruni
2006: Lost to Bowling Green 48-6 in the second round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22666&id=&action_name=)

By Michael “Bulldog” Drake

The Raiders of Head Coach Ben Bruni were practically a thrill a minute in 2006. They were a very exciting team to watch, as they established a single season record of ten wins at the school whose varsity program has been around since 1969.

They lost only two games all season, both to cross county rival Bowling Green High. Granted, the schedule was a little on the weak side other than BGHS and Somerset, but the ten wins and an exciting team to watch has given the players, head coach Ben Bruni, and his staff a base from which to start building some lofty goals.

Don’t bet against them…Coach Bruni played his high school football at BGHS, was a starter on the 1995 3A Champions, and knows how to build a winner from the ground up.

The team scored only its second postseason win ever over Franklin-Simpson last year, and that is another item upon which to build. 2007 promises to be another very exciting season in the northeast corner of Warren County, as the Raiders should once again be one of the main challengers in District Two of a distinctly different Class 4A.

Warren East will begin the season in Week One hosting 6A county rival Greenwood.

In Week Two, the toughness of the new schedule starts bearing teeth as the Raiders will host Fort Campbell, and they will follow up with perennial power Bardstown the next week at Bardstown.

Week Four will see the Raiders open district play with a long-time rival, Allen County-Scottsville at Raider Stadium. The Patriots should field an improved team over last year as well.

Week Five will be a red-letter date on the Raiders’ schedule, as they visit the proud Franklin-Simpson Wildcats, and they should field perhaps the best all-around QB in the area in senior Courtney Dalcourt. It will be the second district contest of the season.

The third district game comes in Week Six as the Raiders celebrate Homecoming Night against another district team with a wide-open style of offense, Logan County.

The final district game of the 2007 season will be played at Russell County in Week Seven. Then East will host powerful Owensboro Catholic in Week Eight to end the home portion of their schedule.

After their open date in Week Nine, the Raiders will travel into Bowling Green to take on the mighty 5A Purples. The Raiders will wind up the season at Larue County in Week Eleven before heading into the playoff waters in 4A for the first time.

Coach Bruni has quite an arsenal coming back on offense, as nine starters from the most potent offense in Raider history return. The Raiders favor a balanced offense, and it showed in last year’s numbers. East ran for 2648 yards and passed for 2074 yards, a mix that can certainly keep most defenses off balance.

Last year’s leading receiver, Kyle McGuffey, graduated. But a whole stable of receivers are coming back, along with the QB to pull the trigger.

Seniors Deangelo Kirk (6-1, 165), Jon Yates (5-11, 170), and Demetric Ray (5-10, 180) make for a formidable trio with a penchant for the big play. Yates caught only eleven passes last season, but he averaged 27.5 yards per snag and scored five times, making the most of his opportunities. Kirk was a First Team All-SKY performer last season after recording 25 catches for 454 yards last season and is actively being recruited by several Division I and Division I-AA schools.

Senior QB Jordan Ellis (6-3, 175) had quite a season last year, completing 104 of 174 passes for 1792 yards and 16 scoring strikes against only four interceptions.

The fireworks aren’t the exclusive province of the passing game, as the Raiders have quite a trio of running backs coming back as well. Senior Terrance Dunn (5-9, 170) leads an impressive crew returning. He ran for 871 yards on 117 attempts and ran for 17 scoring jaunts last season, leading the team with 102 points scored.

Junior Shenard Holton (6-1, 190) is impressive as well and is being recruited by several Division I and Division I-AA schools. He toted the mail for 776 yards on only 92 attempts last year and scored 14 times.

Junior Antonious Owens (5-9, 180) contributed 482 yards and nine scores last season. These may not be the most talented in the stable of running backs, as sophomore Immanuel Robinson (6-1, 170) will compete for playing time as well. Robinson averaged 7.1 yards per tote last year as a freshman.

The biggest losses on the offense were on the front line. However, senior guard Wes Jenkins (6-1, 255) will return as a fourth year starter and is touted by Coach Bruni as a team leader.

Senior Shawn Russell (6-2, 220) also will return at the other guard position. Senior Jamie Tuliano (5-8, 220) is a transfer from Caldwell County and will probably start somewhere on the offensive line.

Coach Bruni needs to find two others to step up and claim starting spots. He says that the unit will still be physically strong, just not as tall as last year’s offensive line. Jenkins’ leadership skills will be put to the test, but he should come through.

Defense is a different story, however. Coach Bruni has only four starters coming back from last season. With the upgraded schedule for 2007, his inexperienced stop troops must grow up early. Adding to the problem is the fact that East only has 44 players on the current roster, so several players must play on both sides of the ball, and depth could be a problem.

One position on the front line shouldn’t be a problem, and that is junior Nick Pearson (5-10, 270). He will definitely be the anchor of the defensive line. The DT spots, Coach Bruni says, will be featuring different combinations of players with the size and speed commensurate with the kind of offense they will face each week. Newcomer Tuliano should figure in heavily in the mix.

Three linebackers graduated, but the players replacing them should be strong and fast. Joining returning senior Jordan Bryant (6-0, 195) will be a trio of juniors, Silas Jewell (5-9, 185), P.J. Jones (5-9, 171), and Jeremy Werner (5-10, 195). Bryant was All-SKY as a DE last year. He tied for the team sack leadership last season with nine and is the leading returning tackler with 76 total stops, 13 for losses.

Shenard Holton could also see considerable action at OLB, and Coach Bruni says that he could be an even better defensive player. Quite a tribute to a young man who generated so much excitement on the offensive side of the ball last year.

The defensive backfield should be a strength for the Raiders in the coming season. All three of last year’s starters return.

Jon Yates returns at FS and is the second leading returning tackler with 49 total tackles, and senior Katan Parker (5-10, 170) at one corner tied for second in interceptions on the team last year with three each. Yates has six career interceptions.

Senior Darius Harpool (5-9, 172) completes the trio of returnees. All three are very experienced and are very quick to the football.

Overall, winning ten ballgames in 2007 may be a bit of a reach because of the more difficult schedule and the fact that Coach Bruni sees the district being much more balanced this time. But he says that the more difficult schedule will better prepare his charges for the postseason.

True to his roots at BGHS, his eventual goal at Warren East is to have the Raiders become a challenger for state honors each year. He learned his craft under Dan Haley and Kevin Wallace, so he has had some excellent teachers. But as he says, East will not sneak up on anybody this year. All of the opponents know now that the Raiders show up to win ballgames and to establish a winning tradition.

He knows that a rash of injuries could be disastrous to the thin Raiders this year, especially up front on both sides of the ball. But the team has speed to burn this year, and not too many teams have such a collection of skill players. Even if the inexperienced defense doesn’t come along at first, the Raiders should be in the game because of the skill players. They should at least have a chance to win. And they should still be one of the better teams out west in 4A for 2007.

Click here for the 2007 Warren East schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24775&action_name=)

10. Fairdale (4-6)
Head coach: Jonathon Miller
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22524&id=&action_name=)

In his second season, Fairdale coach Jonathan Miller is excited about the potential and the improvement of his Bulldogs’ squad.

Fairdale went 4-6 last season, losing several close games, and while depth could be a problem in certain positions should be much improved this fall.

The entire backfield returns for the Bulldogs, including All-District performer and Division I prospect Jordon Mills at quarterback. He also plays linebacker and threw for 2,111 yards and rushed for 420 more last season. He accounted for 28 total touchdowns and amassed 51 tackles.

Frank Bartee ran for over 700 yards in seven games, while also recording 72 tackles from his middle linebacker spot on defense. Diante Hill will be another solid running back after injuries slowed his progression last season. Nick Davis and Rorrick Ballard are the top wide receivers.

The offensive line is anchored by mammoth tackle David Carter (6-3, 290), who is just a junior and has squatted 450 pounds 10 times.

Defensive end Brandon Trumbo is another key performer, along with returning linemen Randy Mann and Travis Perry.

Click here for the 2007 Fairdale schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24634&action_name=)
(http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24634&action_name=)

[The Scribe]

Other 4A Teams


Allen County-Scottsville (6-5)
Head coach: Brad Hood
2006: Lost to Bowling Green 49-6 in the first round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22459&id=&action_name=)

Brad Hood’s first season as Patriot head coach was deemed a success as AC-S made the playoffs for the first time since 2002.

With 13 starters back, including several skill players and the team’s entire linebacking corps, Hood is hoping to notch the school’s first postseason win since 2002.

Junior Flint Lich (5-11, 180) rushed for over 800 yards and will be the centerpiece of the Patriot offense this year.

“I feel that our strengths will rely on the shoulders of Flint,” Hood said. “He was our most productive offensive weapon last year and will be relied heavily on this year.”

Also back is sophomore quarterback Cory Cooper, who threw for over 500 yards. He will have the services of Ben Mahaney (5-10, 160, Jr.) and Allen Witcher (5-9, 155, Jr.) at receiver.

Up front, the Patriots return center Tyler Willoughby (5-10, 220, Sr.) and tackle Tyler Arterburn (6-1, 260, Jr.).

“We’ll have at least three new starters but should be better overall as a unit as the year goes forward,” Hood noted.

On defense, linebackers Sam Fowler (5-10, 165, Sr.) and Corey Shockley (6-1, 160, Sr.) both return, as does Taylor Berry (6-1, 175, Sr.), who led the team in tackles last year, including 21 stops behind the line of scrimmage.

In the secondary, senior Logan Russell is the lone starter back after picking off two passes last year.

Hood said Lich would move from linebacker to defensive end and would be joined on the line by senior Jonathon Crowe and John Ed Taylor (5-10, 220, Sr.) in the 4-4 scheme.

Also expected to see time on defense are junior linebacker Jake Marr, junior lineman Travis England, and junior linebacker Devin Calhoun.

Hood said building depth at receiver and defensive back was one of the top priorities heading into the new season.

Click here for the 2007 Allen County-Scottsville schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24568&action_name=)


Atherton (0-10)
Head coach: Matt Brown
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22462&id=&action_name=)

Atherton heads into the 2007 football season with the second longest losing streak in the state at 27 games.

However, new district alignment and new assistant coaches has second-year head coach Matt Brown exited about ending the losing streak and making the playoffs for the first time in the school’s history. The biggest change people will see is the 2007 Rebel schedule.

“We left a nine-team district and enter one with only five teams, which allows us to schedule six non-district games and pick up teams the same size as us,” Brown said.

Atherton’s 2006 opponents combined to win 53 games. Their 2007 opponents won 40, which bodes well for the Rebels to get into the win column.

On the field, Brown has 17 starters returning, including nine on defense.
Linebackers Stuart Madison (5-11, 190, Sr.), Jason Withrow (5-11, 205, 205), Corey Grant (5-11, 225, Sr.), and Chris Ladege (5-11, 170) all return and will be joined by linemen Nathan Johnson (6-0, 300, Sr.) and T.J. Burrus (6-0, 195, Sr.).

The secondary will have Cedric Doby (5-9, 150, Sr.), Chris Ellis (5-11, 165, Jr.), and Ethan Foster (5-10, 150, Sr.) back.

Brown said Darrell Mason will run the defense and get help from recent staff addition Jason Stallard, who coached under former Moore head coach Jay Fulmer at Western before following him to Florida.

“They have brought in an aggressive defensive scheme to greatly improve our efficiency and attitude on defense,” Brown said.

Atherton will need something new on offense as well after scoring just three touchdowns in 10 games last year.

Cloud returns at quarterback, with Doby and Ladege in the backfield. Madison, who played some quarterback last year, will play tight end, and Johnson, Withrow, Grant, and Burrus give the Rebels an undersized but athletic line. However, Reggie Brown (6-0, 300, Jr.) and Jonathon Gaither (6-0, 275, Jr.) could play themselves into a starting role up front.

“I think our offensive and defensive lines should be much improved this year with more experience and depth on both sides,” said Brown, who added the Rebels will play on a new Bermuda surface at Kleier Stadium this year. “I am excited to see how things work out this season.”

Click here for the 2007 Atherton schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24571&action_name=)

Bourbon County (0-10)
Head coach: Rick Massie
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22477&id=&action_name=)

In just a decade’s time, Bourbon County has gone from a state champion to owners of the state’s longest losing streak at 33 games.

Rick Massie enters his second season as Colonel head coach with promising numbers and a new district.

Quarterback Taylor Barnes was the straw that stirred Bourbon’s drink on offense after combining for nearly 700 all-purpose yards last year.

Matt Wigglesworth, Thomas Denninghoff, and senior Jordan Massie, who had 234 receiving yards and two touchdowns, also return for the Colonel offense, while Nate McComb returns on defense.

Massie has been pleased with the spring and summer turnout of his club, especially in the weight room. The Colonel faithful is hoping the interest there results in some wins to send the senior class out with.

Click here for the 2007 Bourbon County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24587&action_name=)

Boyd County (4-7)
Head coach: Lee Evans
2006: Lost to Johnson Central 50-6 in the first round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22479&id=&action_name=)

District realignment has made Boyd County the favorite to win their new district that also includes Rowan County, Lawrence County, and Greenup County.

Second-year head coach Lee Evans has several starters back on offense, including junior quarterback Zac Wilson and senior running back Gatlin Barker, who will again be the focal point of opposing defenses.

Zach Miller and Ryan Crisp will also get some carries in the backfield, while Crisp will anchor the Lion defense from his linebacker positions.

The biggest key for Evans will be to find some replacements on the offense and defensive lines following the graduation of an experienced line.

Click here for the 2007 Boyd County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24589&action_name=)


Breckinridge County (0-10)
Head coach: Walt Hildenbrandt
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22483&id=&action_name=)

Injuries decimated a Breckinridge County team that didn’t win a game in 2006, causing them to forfeit a district game with Bowling Green late in the season.

Those injuries saw a lot of young players be forced into starting roles, with several of those players expected to start full time in 2007.

The Tigers have 12 starters returning for head coach Walt Hildenbrandt, who begins his 22nd season leading Breckinridge County.

Chase Colyer (6-0, 195, Jr.) and Tate Glasscock (5-9, 156, Soph.) will battle for the starting job at quarterback, although both will likely start on offense.

Andy Rollier (5-8, 144, Sr.) and Clint Board (5-8, 131, Soph.) are back at receiver, and Zach Sherwood (5-7, 150, Sr.) is back in the Tiger backfield.

Up front, Brad Norwood (5-7, 226, Jr.) and A.J. Anthony (5-9, 232, Sr.) return on an offensive line charged with the task of giving the quarterback time top run the offense.

Five starters return on defense, led by Anthony, Dan Vessel (5-9, 197, Sr.), Isaac Sosh (5-9, 225, Sr.), and Tyler Bruington (6-0, 238, Soph.) on the line. However, Sosh and Vessel are already nursing injuries and could their playing time early in the season affected.

Board returns in the secondary and should be joined by Deron Critchelow (5-9, 141, Soph.) and Patrick Edmonds (5-7, 131, Soph.).

Realignment was kind to Breckinridge County in terms of opponents and travel. The Tigers’ longest trip to play a district game this year is equal to their shortest trip last year as Louisville schools Western, Fairdale, Valley, and Atherton appear as district opponents for Breckinridge County.

Click here for the 2007 Breckinridge County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24593&action_name=)


Calloway County (4-7)
Head coach: Josh McKeel
2006: Lost to Paducah Tilghman 42-18 in the first round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22490&id=&action_name=)

On paper, Calloway County was one of the big winners from the district realignment handed down by the KHSAA.

The Lakers lose Paducah Tilghman, Hopkinsville, and Madisonville and pick up Lone Oak and a Muhlenberg North team that was winless last year.
Third-year head coach Josh McKeel has 11 returning starters, including one of the top sophomores in the state.

Tyrell Willis (6-2, 230) starts at both running back and defensive end after averaging over 10 yards a carry last year behind Trey Travis. McKeel expects Willis to be a larger part of the Laker offense this year.

Travis (5-6, 170, Sr.) is a shifty back that hits the hole well and rushed for 827 yards and six scores last year.

Casey Brockman (6-2, 180, Jr.) is expected to start the season at quarterback for the Lakers, who should have Chris Dobbins (5-8, 144, Jr.), C.J. Dial (6-1, 184, Jr.), and George Garner (6-0, 183, Jr.) lining up at receiver.

On the line, guards Grant Barrow (5-10, 203, Sr.) and Levi Scarborough (5-10, 195, Sr.) and tackle Grant Williams (6-5, 237, Soph.) return.

Scarborough is one of four starters back for McKeel on defense at his linebacker spot. Tackle Bill Cornett (6-3, 278, Sr.) and Willis return on the line, while Shawn Jenkins (5-10, 155, Sr.) is back in the secondary.

Jordan Gillum (5-10, 147, Sr.), John Garland (6-0, 170, Jr.), and Logan Banks (5-7, 184, Soph.) should also see considerable playing time for the Lakers this year.

“We are strong at the skill positions but don’t have a lot of depth on the line,” McKeel said. “I still think we are a better team than we were last year, even though our numbers are on the low side for 4A football.”

Click here for the 2007 Calloway County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24600&action_name=)


East Jessamine (8-3)
Head coach: Mike Bowlin
2006: Lost to Franklin County 41-13 in the first round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22516&id=&action_name=)

The post-Hagler era begins at East Jessamine following the graduation of the talented brother combination.

However, Jaguar head coach Mike Bowlin was done no favors with the new alignment that keeps Lexington Catholic and added Boyle County to his district.

“Six state championships and one runner-up have come from our district in the past eight years,” Bowlin noted. “We had a tough time finding local teams that we felt like we could match up with, and now we’re just hoping to survive our brutal district schedule.”

The Jaguars return three linemen on both sides of the football. Tackle Michael Thom (5-11, 275, Sr.), guard Isaiah Powell, and guard Justin Burger (5-10, 200, Jr.) return on the defense line, while David Orear (6-4, 230, Sr.) will join Powell and Thom on the defensive line.

Bowlin is ready to turn the keys to the Jaguar offense over to sophomore Zach Cantrell, who started a couple of games late in the season last year.
“He's got a big time arm and is a real competitor,” Bowlin said. “If he can make better decisions with his pass, then we'll definitely be able to add a new dimension to our offense.”

Matt Whitely (6-2, 205, Sr.) returns in the backfield after rushing for almost 300 yards and three TDs last year.

Juniors Cody Risner and Quincy Richard will also see time in a backfield that Bowlin calls “experienced with big-time potential.”

“Quincy sees the field well and catches the ball extremely well too. We're looking for him to have a break out season and be highly recruited his senior year,” the coach said.

Senior John Drury and Orear could become big targets for Cantrell at receiver.

Defensively, Cantrell and Damion Napier headline a linebacking corps that Bowlin says must get better after what he saw during spring workouts.

Realignment didn’t help East Jessamine, who will have to get better as a defensive unit in order to survive the new alignment.

Click here for the 2007 East Jessamine schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24626&action_name=)

[The Scribe]

Franklin-Simpson (5-6)
Head coach: Tim Schlosser
2006: Lost to Warren East 28-21 in the first round of the 3A playo (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22532&id=&action_name=)ffs

Rebuilding seasons don’t come along too often at Franklin-Simpson – a program that has won 73 games in the past decade. But that’s what 2006 turned out to be after the Wildcats saw their streak of 13 consecutive winning seasons come to an end.

Despite losing 14 seniors, the Wildcats return some talent and experience at the skill positions.

Courtney Dalcourt (6-0, 190, Jr.) shook off a rough start to the season and settled in to throw for 819 yards and run for 1,011 more. The lanky quarterback accounted for 17 touchdowns on offense.

Senior Jereece Payne (6-0, 170) and sophomore Patrick Flippin (6-0, 175) are also back for Schlosser’s offense.

Payne rushed for 766 yards and nine touchdowns, while Flippin added 456 yards and six scores.

Zack Herrington (5-10, 160, Jr.) and Jim Murphee (6-6, 175, Jr.) return at receiver.

The Wildcats only have two starters back on the line – Dustin Jones (6-0, 225, Jr.) and Josh Atkins (5-10, 225, Jr.).

Schlosser will have more holes to plug on defense than offense after losing four of his five linemen from last year.

Matt Martin (6-1, 185, Sr.) and Murphee return at defensive end, and Herrington and Dalcourt are back in the secondary.

The linebackers will include Braxton Dyer (6-1, 175, Sr.) and Corey Jones (5-10, 170, Sr.).

If the Wildcats can get some solid play on their lines, they should challenge Warren East for the district title.

Click here for the 2007 Franklin-Simpson schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24642&action_name=)


Greenup County (3-7)
Head coach: Mike Sammons
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22543&id=&action_name=)

Expectations are high at Greenup County, where the new alignment mixed with the return of 17 starters has the Musketeers looking for their first winning season since 2002.

The numbers have increased for head coach Mike Sammons, who enters his third season with almost twice as many players as when he started.

Offensively, the Musketeers must find some consistency. They scored 130 points in their first five games and 33 points in their final five.

Senior running back T.J. Stephenson (5-7, 150, Sr.) led Greenup with over 500 rushing yards. He’ll be joined in the backfield by senior Corey Justice (5-9, 170, Sr.).

Senior Kyle Bush (5-10, 185returns at end for junior quarterback Eric Craft (6-1, 175), who threw for nearly 400 yards last year.

On the line, the Musketeers have a wealth of experience returning in Stewart Abrams (6-1, 270), Scott Fore (6-1, 240), Jason Meenach (5-11, 220), P.J. Ratcliff (6-2, 270), and Brent Yates (6-1, 210) – all seniors.

Seven starters return on defense, led by linebackers Bush, Joe Bob Greenslate, and Drew Hannah.

Yates and Caleb Newberry return on the line.

Sammons and Greenup County have taken their licks with mostly underclassmen the past few years, but a large number of juniors and seniors on this year’s roster have the Musketeer faithful hoping for a quick turnaround this year.

Click here for the 2007 Greenup County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24653&action_name=)


Harrison County (5-6)
Head coach: Ray Graham
2006: Lost to Lexington Catholic 55-7 in the first round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22547&id=&action_name=)

After a rebuilding season in 2006 that saw just eight seniors graduate, Harrison County is looking to again challenge for the district title thanks to an experienced line and a new alignment.

The biggest beneficiary of the experience returning up front will be junior quarterback Van Issac, who threw for 1,045 yards and ran for 1,065 yards in his first season under center.

Isaac will work behind Chris Young (6-0, 235, Sr.), Clifton Schneider (6-5, 290, Sr.), and T.J. Moore (6-0, 255, Sr.).

Mighty-mite Jared Sharp (5-4, 195, Sr.) returns to play fullback and linebacker for the ‘Breds. He will be joined on defense by Malcolm Thomas and Darius Ray.

Harrison County will rekindle their district rivalry with Franklin County and will be joined in the new alignment by Pendleton County and Bourbon County, who were a combined 3-17 last year.

2007 will mark the final year for Ingles Stadium, which dates back to the 1940s. The stadium will be razed at season’s end to make way for a new $5 million sports complex that will include a 4,800 seat football stadium.

Click here for the 2007 Harrison County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24657&action_name=)


Hopkins County Central (1-9)
Head coach: Rick Snodgrass
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22559&id=&action_name=)

The rebuilding continues for the Hopkins County Central Storm, but don’t expect another one-win season from the school in Morton’s Gap.

Head coach Rick Snodgrass has 17 starters coming back and will have the luxury of playing his line on only one side of the football.

Brad Saddler (5-10, 210, Sr.), Johnathon Grant (6-1, 225, Jr.), and Jimmie Martin (5-11, 255, Sr.) all return on the offensive line, while Dustin Grant (5-11, 220, Jr.), Cody Summers (6-4, 285, Soph.), Austin Pryor (6-3, 275, Sr.), and Denzeil Arrington (6-0, 190, Jr.) are back on the D-line.

The Storm also return most of their skill positions except quarterback. Ethan Utley (6-1, 170, Sr.) could have the inside track on the starter’s job and should have a nice supporting cast.

Troydale Rorer (6-0, 190, Jr.) rushed for 552 yards and three touchdowns last year. He’ll be joined in the backfield by Jacob Powell (5-11, 180, Jr.).

Kelsey Bowman (6-0, 180, Jr.) caught a team-high 34 passes for 333 yards and two scores, and Travis Watts (5-11, 195, Jr.) returns at tight end.

Defense is where the Storm must see major improvement after giving up 31 points and 247 rushing yards a game.

Click here for the 2007 Hopkins Central schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24668&action_name=)


Knox Central (6-5)
Head coach: Wayne Mills
2006: Lost to Bell County 35-13 in the first round of the 3A playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22568&id=&action_name=)

With the high school football season just a few months away, Knox Central head coach Wayne Mills is preparing his team for the road ahead.

With Bell County and Rockcastle expected to fight it out for a district crown, Mills said his team will have its work cut out for it in 2007 if it hopes to compete.

Despite the challenges ahead, Mills said he thinks his team will be ready. “This is going to be a season where we can make some noise if we want to,” Mills said. “Of course, bell County and Rockcastle County are at the top of the list in the district, but they aren’t unbeatable.

“I think Bell County can make a real run at the state title and Rockcastle always has history on its side,” he added. “But like I said, I fell like this is a team that can really have a say in what happens and hopefully we’ll be able to do that”

When it comes to returning players, Mills and company have a strong nucleus of juniors and seniors to build upon, but said he will also need some underclassmen to step up and make plays as well.

The Panthers’ season may hinge on the play of running back Brandon Tolliver and quarterback Cory Smith.

Tolliver rushed for 1,169 yards in 2006 as a junior, and Mills said he expected even more this season.

“Brandon had a real good year for us last year, and he will have to repeat that and even more this season,” Mills said. “The good thing is, I think Brandon learned a lot from last season and his performance from a year ago will go a long way in his maturity on the field.”

When it comes to the quarterback position, Mills said he feels more than comfortable with the return of Cory Smith.

As a sophomore, Smith threw for over 1,100 yards in what Mills called a “run oriented offense”.

Considering the success Smith had, Mills said is not afraid to throw the ball a little more this year and expects his offense to be a little more mixed up than in years passed.

“Any time you have kids that can catch the ball and a guy that can get the ball to them, it obviously adds to your offensive options,” Mills said. “We have some guys than catch the ball this year, as opposed to really just one threat last year in Jordan Ellenburg, so that gives Smith more options and more confidence in the pocket.

“Add the fact Tolliver will be poised to improve on last year’s effort, and you have a good combination on offense,” he added. “I really think if these guys stay healthy, we can score some points and play some good football as a team.”

On the defensive side of things, Mills said he looks for the same intensity and quality of play as he does on offense.

With the return of a trio of third year starters, Mills said things may be tough for opposing offenses.

“We have three guys in Kyle Hammons, Justin Mullins and Andy Broughton who will make a lot of plays for us,” Mills said. “These guys have started for two years, and to be honest, they are more like men than high school kids on the football field.

“They have been through some wars on the field and their experience should anchor our defense,” he added.

With plenty of time left to prepare for the season, Mills said his team will continue to get better and try to improve in the right places.

“We have some stuff coming up that will give us a chance to make me improvements,” he said. “We will see some local teams and gauge what we need to do by what we see against them.

“All we can do is get ready for the season and that’s what we’ll do,” he added.

Click here for the 2007 Knox Central schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24677&action_name=)


LaRue County (10-3)
Head coach: Rodney Armes
2006: Lost to Mercer County 56-14 in the 2A region title game (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22570&id=&action_name=)

By Josh Claywell
The (Elizabethtown) News-Enterprise

The LaRue County Hawks don’t have a lot of starters back from last year, but they’re banking on the returning experience from a squad that finished 10-3.

LaRue County graduated 21 seniors off last year’s team that lost in the semifinals of the state playoffs to eventual Class 2-A state champion Mercer County, but has 17 seniors this year.

“We’d like to have 20, but that’s a decent number,” longtime LaRue County coach Rodney Armes said. “We’re pretty tickled with 17.”

After spending most of his career on the JV squad behind other quarterbacks, it’s time for senior Alan Vass to lead the Hawks under center.

Vass takes over for Chris Singleton, who threw for 1,722 yards and 23 touchdowns.

“He had a great JV season last year,” Armes said. “He’s strong, a great leader and he’s finally getting his chance.”

The one difference between Singleton and Vass is that Vass is more of a pocket passes and won’t be as apt to scramble as much.

“He’s just not as mobile as Chris was,” Armes said. “But we still have high hopes for him. He has really good arm strength and he’s got good vision.”

Armes doesn’t have a preference over whether his quarterback is a scrambler or not.

“The kind of quarterback I’d like to have is the kind that wins games,” Armes said.

Junior Travis Crim and sophomore Lucas Chaudoin will serve as backups to Vass.

At running back, Armes will have to replace the graduated Justin Thurman, who rushed for 1,618 yards and 18 last year.

But the Hawks have a host of running backs that will try and fill the void left behind by Thurman, who also owns the school record for career receptions (84), receiving yards (1,536), touchdown receptions (18) and is second on the school’s all-time rushing list behind Jordan Newton (3,498).

Seniors Travis Hayes, Jake Highbaugh and Ethan Huff, along with a few underclassmen, will take over in the backfield.

“For the first time, we’ve got an interesting scenario at running back in that we’ve got about six guys that are about the same,” Armes said. “They are practically clones of each other. We’re going to have a running back by committee. Right now, they’re all about the same. It’s very different than what we’ve had in the past.”

The Hawks will also have to replace leading wide receiver Evan Smith. In 13 games, Smith caught 33 passes for 671 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Seniors Corey Salsman, Anthony Huff and Justin Saettel and newcomers Aaron Mayfield and Caleb Cobb will try and fill that void.

“Hopefully the can all block well and open holes for our backs because I think we’re going to more run-oriented,” Armes said. “I’m just looking for guys who can block and give us a catch when we need it.”

Other returnees are: senior Quentin Cobb at offensive/defensive tackle, senior Scott Davenport at lineman, senior Josh Davis at fullback/middle linebacker, senior Ryan Carter at center, juniors Jay Eastridge and Eric Patterson at offensive line and Brell Key and Reggie Lock at linebacker.

“This has been a really fun group to coach,” Armes said. “They’ve got a great attitude. I think it’s going to be a great year.”

LaRue County opens the season Aug. 24 against Fort Knox in the U.S. Army National Guard Bowl at North Hardin.

Click here for the 2007 LaRue County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24679&action_name=)


Lawrence County (2-8)
Head coach: Billy Goldsmith
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22571&id=&action_name=)

Lawrence County has had three straight losing seasons for the first time in over 20 years, but don’t expect that number to reach four in 2007.

The Bulldogs have several key players returning on both sides of the football, and head coach Billy Goldsmith is starting to have something at Lawrence County he hasn’t had before – depth.

Cody Roberts (975 yards, 10 TDs) and Morgan Roberts (573 yards, 4 TDs) return in the backfield for the Bulldogs. Sophomore Boone Goldsmith threw for 291 yards in five games before suffering a season-ending injury. He is expected to be ready to begin the 2007 season healthy.

Junior Mark Fitzpatrick, who filled in a quarterback last year, is expected to again be involved in the offense in some capacity as will senior Jeff Cyrus.

Tyler Hinton is one of the experienced linemen Goldsmith will have at his disposal, hoping he will fill the void on the line left by the graduation of Kyle Carter.

The Bulldogs will have to survive a tough early stretch of games, including games with Belfry, Sheldon Clark, and Prestonsburg.

Click here for the 2007 Lawrence County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24680&action_name=)


Logan County (1-9)
Head coach: Lee Proctor
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22578&id=&action_name=)

Lee Proctor knew 2006 was going to be a rebuilding year, but I don’t think he envisioned a 1-9 record – the worst since 2002.

The Logan County head coach is faced with the task of replacing several of his skill players, but will have an experienced line to put in front of them.

Chris Dixon (6-0, 220,Sr.), Cody Martin (6-1, 215, Sr.), Scott Craig (6-1, 275, Sr.), Drew Neel (6-0, 225, Sr.), Anthony Stevens (5-9, 195, Sr.), and Ben Thompson, (6-0, 260, Jr.) should return up front for the Cougars.

Luke Simmons returns at linebacker for Logan County, who has been hard hit by graduation each of the past two years.

Click here for the 2007 Logan County schedule (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24687&action_name=)


Lone Oak (5-5)
Head coach: Jack Haskins
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22579&id=&action_name=)

Lone Oak coach Jack Haskins has coached high-profile quarterbacks before, having played a role in developing two eventual Mr. Football winners in Pookie Jones (1989, Calloway County) and Billy Jack Haskins (1992, Paducah Tilghman).

Haskins, the architect of Lone Oak’s four-year ascension from perennial doormat to competitive program, puts Corey Robinson in the same category.

“He’s comparable to those guys, in terms of ability,” Haskins said. “He’s a very accurate passer and he’s a better athlete than people think. He can run and he throws on the run really well.

“Corey doesn’t have the background and experience of those guys because he’s only in his third year as a quarterback — he was a receiver as a freshman, and we moved him to quarterback the next spring. But he’s going to be a good college quarterback.”

Robinson (6-3, 195), who threw for 2,658 yards and 29 touchdowns as a junior, is drawing interest from Division I-A and I-AA programs and is the primary reason the Purple Flash (5-5 last season) are expected to battle Calloway County for the District 1 championship.

But Haskins sees the development of the offensive line as critical to the Flash’s chances at making a postseason run.

“Everything hinges on the line,” Haskins said. “We could be good up front, better than we’ve been since I’ve been here, but we haven’t been very good the last two years. We have size, but size doesn’t do much unless you have good feet.”

Lone Oak went exclusively to a spread attack after having trouble establishing the running game early last season. The entire line returns and is bolstered by the presence of transfer Dre Duncan (5-10, 280) who played at Elizabethtown last season. He moved in when his father, former Elizabethtown assistant coach Steve Duncan, was brought in as Lone Oak’s new defensive coordinator.

“He moves very well for his size and he’s going to help us a lot,” Haskins said of Duncan, who will start at center and defensive tackle.

John Carr (6-3, 255) and Chase Fox (6-7, 310), who started at tackle last season, have moved inside to guard. Jeff Prescott (6-3, 275), Nick Tavernaro and Kyler Branham have the inside track at the tackle spots.
John Pierce (6-3, 225) has moved from tight end to running back and will share time in the backfield with Corey Hobbs.

Jamarielle Brown (6-3, 165), a junior speedster that caught 59 passes for 876 yards and nine TDs, is the big-play threat among the receiver corps.

Daniel Edwards and Travis Hickman are reliable receivers that can also go deep, and Haskins uses Tad Porter as a possession receiver. Logan Francis also figures into the mix, as Robinson has shown the ability to utilize all of his targets.

Linebacker Mickey Tucker (5-4, 170) is the backbone of a defense that needs to show significant improvement against the run. Hobbs and sophomore Chayton Holland will start alongside Tucker.

Duncan, Prescott and 240-pound John Myre will see time on the line, as will Branham, Austin Clark and Tommy Wilson. Edwards is a three-year starter at cornerback and Hickman returns at free safety.

Haskins has a 17-player senior class, his largest since he’s been at Lone Oak, and that also fuels the optimism surrounding the program.

“These guys started in the program when I did, and they’ve stuck with it,” Haskins said. “With the numbers we have now, we feel like we’re starting to build a program here, not just putting a team out there and trying to scramble to win some games.”

Click here for the 2007 Lone Oak schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24688&action_name=)

[The Scribe]

Madison Southern (4-6)
Head coach: Doug Carter
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22583&id=&action_name=)

Madison Southern missed the playoffs for the second time in three years but don’t expect the trend to continue in 2007.

The Eagles have 15 starters coming back for head coach Doug Carter, who was forced to go to a youth movement last year after losing 15 starters from 2005.

Senior quarterback Zach McGuire was impressive in his first season as the starting quarterback, throwing for 2,066 yards and 27 touchdowns.

He will have a pair of offensive weapons to work with in 2007. Sophomore Rico Brown caught 21 passes for 351 yards and three scores. Zach Short (5-11, 155, Jr.) and Brandon Baker (5-9, 160, Sr.) also figure to factor in the offense more in 2007.

The Eagles will benefit from the return of an experienced line that includes Jacob Carter (6-1, 240, Sr.), Colby Marshall (5-11, 225, Jr.), Aaron Baker (6-0, 285, Sr.), and Jose Gonzalez (6-2, 260, Sr.).

The Eagles still have to find a way to get past Bell County and Rockcastle County in a slimmed down district with just five teams compared to seven last year. As a result, Madison Southern was able to schedule cross-county rival Madison Central in the second week of the season.

Click here for the 2007 Madison Southern schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24692&action_name=)


Marion County (6-5)
Head coach: Jeff Robbins
2006: Lost to Boyle County 27-15 in the first round of the 3A playoffs. (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22587&id=&action_name=)

Has Marion County finally turned the corner in football? We’ll find out in 2007.

The Knights lost four important seniors from last year’s team that posted the school’s first winning record in 11 years but return everyone else.

Head coach Jeff Robbins will have a roster filled with seniors and sophomores, which should give him more depth this year.

“We are in a unique situation this year. We will see a lot of the same faces as this year, but those faces will be backed up by young guys with not a lot of varsity experience,” Robbins said.

Marion County lost playmakers Josh Buck and Adam Blair to graduation but return eight starters from last year. Robbins projects his starting linemen to be the strength of his offensive unit.

Tackles T.J. Albertson and Kyle Dorrah, center David Whitlock, and guards Jonathon Garrett and Alex Mattingly all return up front for the Knights.

Fullback Jake Thompson and running back Elliot Hazelwood return in the backfield, but Robbins must find a quarterback to replace Blair.

Tight end Mitchell Lancaster and receiver Cody Peterson are also back.
Defensively, the Knights return six starters from a unit that set a school record for fewest points allowed in a season (108).

Thompson, Mattingly, and Chan Railey are on the line, Hazelwood and Quan Calhoun at the linebackers, and Cody Peterson, who picked off three passes last year, returns at the corner.

However, Robbins will be looking for some contributions early from new players on the defensive line and in the secondary.

The new realignment didn’t have much effect on Marion County, who lost Boyle County and Southwestern but pick up Bullitt East, North Bullitt, and Larue County.

“It didn’t affect us much. It did make it more difficult to schedule some games, but we were also able to rekindle an old rivalry with Nelson County.”

Click here for the 2007 Marion County schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24696&action_name=)


McCreary Central (5-5)
Head coach: Clinton Gay
2006: Did not compete in district play (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22591&id=&action_name=)

Since beginning a football program in 1987, McCreary County has played independent of district play more times than they have been eligible for the postseason. The new alignment has the Raiders back in district play with Knox Central, Rockcastle County, Madison Southern, and Bell County. Not exactly Christmas morning in Whitley City.

However, the man who began the Raider football program 20 years ago thinks McCreary County has an outside chance at the school’s first-ever trip to the postseason.

“We have some speed, some size, some experience, and some playmakers. We should be a good football team,” said head coach Clinton Gay, who guided the Raiders to a 5-5 mark last year.

McCreary County has seven starters back on offense led by B.J. Duncan (6-2, 217), who led the team in rushing last year. Quarterback Chris Hale (6-0, 175), tight end Zack Roark (6-0, 180), and receiver Anthony Musgrove (5-11, 185) also return and will be play behind a line that includes Rusty Neal (5-11, 240), Tanen Rose (6-0, 210), and Terrance Snyder (5-10, 230).

On defense, the Raiders return a strong secondary led by the speedy Aaron Watts (6-2, 180), Musgrove, and Hale.
Duncan, Roe, and Roark provide a solid core at linebacker, and Matt Cowan (6-2, 190) and Travis Siler (5-9, 230) are back on the line.

Gay is also expecting running backs John Wright (5-10, 175) and Chris Perkins (5-8, 165) and tight end Larry Tucker (6-1, 190) to make an impact on the field this year.

Click here for the 2007 McCreary County schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24700&action_name=)


Muhlenberg North (0-10)
Head coach: Shane Sams
2006: Did not compete in district play (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22602&id=&action_name=)

For a program that has lost 39 of their last 40 games, head coach Shane Sams is optimistic when it comes to 2007.

“It was a transitional year in 2006. We removed the negativity from the program, and we convinced a lot of kids to come out and play football, doubling the size of our team,” the second-year coach said. “We improved our fundamentals, and our kids got to spend a year in our offense and defense and learn the basics of the game.”

Sams and the Stars will have to replace Scotty Wells, who accounted for 75-percent of the team’s offense last year. Despite the program’s record during his career, Wells was able to sign a scholarship to Campbellsville.

Coming back for the Stars are ten starters from last year’s team, including quarterback Chad Martino (6-0, 175, Sr.) and fullback Chris Dunning (5-1, 245, Jr.).

Sams is high on freshman running back David Hocker (5-10, 170), who averaged over 300 rushing yards per game at the middle school level.

The Stars will feature an offensive line that averages 288 pounds across, which should give Martino and Hocker time to find the holes.

Taylor Hendricks (6-1, 270, Jr.), Dakota Payne (5-10, 350, Jr.), and Josh Mundy (6-0, 330, Soph.) should will be the starters with Casey Bourne (5-10, 240, Soph.), Justin Nannie (6-2, 270, Fr.), and Aaron Schroader (6-1, 240, Fr.) splitting time on the line.

On defense, the Stars have a solid group of linebackers returning, led by Dunning, Lucas Oliver (6-0, 185, Sr.), Stephan Tuttle (5-8, 180, Sr.), and Lashon Leonard (6-2, 190, Jr.).

Sams and his coaching staff are working hard to turn around a football program at a school known for its basketball. He had 24 players on the roster at the beginning of last year and now has 24 freshmen playing a 10-game schedule this year.

The Stars are also competing in district play for the first time since the 2000 season.

“Our kids have never experienced a playoffs game, so this will be a new experience for us. We are guaranteed a playoff game every year, and that’s an extra week of football every season,” said Sams.

Perhaps the best sign of a turnaround at Muhlenberg North is the schedule. The Stars will have 10 JV games and 10 freshmen games this year. Last year, they played one JV game and no freshmen games.

“Our program has really turned a corner since I took over. The attitude is incredibly positive. We have eliminated all negative influences. The administration and community have really bought into my philosophy and support the program,” Sams said.

Click here for the 2007 Muhlenberg North schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24710&action_name=)

Pendleton County (3-7)
Head coach: Lee Teegarden
2006: Did not compete in district play (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22622&id=&action_name=)

After losing six of their first seven games to start the 2006 season, Pendleton County rallied to win two of their last three in Lee Teegarden’s first season as head coach.

The Wildcats still have some building to do in 2007 and will look to junior quarterback Matt Daugherty and senior lineman Kyle Pettit to be team leaders.

Regardless of the outcome, the Wildcats will make the playoffs for the first time. They also find themselves in the same district as Bourbon County, who has lost 33 straight games, meaning a district win may not be out of the question.

Click here for the 2007 Pendleton County schedule
(http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24730&action_name=)

Rowan County (2-8)
Head coach: Bill Baldridge
2006: Did not compete in district play (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22636&id=&action_name=)

With the task of rebuilding from the ground up still not finished, Rowan County finds themselves in better position than the same time last year when the Vikings lost their coach and leading rusher to a transfer in a span of weeks.

Veteran coach Bill Baldridge has a ton of starters back from last year’s 2-8, and with the KHSAA realignment, the Vikings will make their first playoff appearance since 1998.

Baldridge will have the nucleus of his offense returning, which includes Kyler Wright (5-11, 170, Sr.), who rushed for 512 yards and two touchdowns last year and led the Vikings with 21 catches for 200 yards.
Sophomore quarterback T.J. Chin threw for 740 yards and ran for 319 more, accounting for 10 touchdowns in all.

Jacob Ball (5-11, 175, Sr.) and Eddie Young (6-3, 175, Sr.), who caught 13 passes for 221 yards, could prove to become more offensive targets for the Vikings.

Up front, the return of Josh Voight (6-4, 260), B.G. Poe (6-2, 205, Sr.), Josh Hinton (6-0, 225, Sr.), and Josh Gregory (6-2, 270, Sr.) gives the Vikings a boost heading into their new district.

Rowan County hasn’t had a winning season in Morehead since 1998, but the Vikings are hopeful the experience they have returning will be enough to end the streak and win a district game or two.

Click here for the 2007 Rowan County schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24745&action_name=)


Russell County (4-6)
Head coach: Bill Sharp
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22638&id=&action_name=)

Russell County won their first four games in 2006 and then collapsed, losing their last six-in-a-row and posting an 0-5 district mark.

Realignment wasn’t very kind to the Lakers, who join a district with Warren East, Franklin-Simpson, Logan County, and Allen County-Scottsville.

Head coach Bill Sharp knew 2006 was going to be a rebuilding year but three district losses by a single touchdown is something he would like to reverse this year with a more experienced group.

Timmy Coffey (6-0, 195, Sr.) led the Lakers with 1,001 rushing yards and nine touchdowns.

Junior Byron Ellis (5-11, 180) threw for 1,136 yards and nine touchdowns in his first season as the starting quarterback.

David Wooldrige (6-0, 195, Sr.) is the top returning receiver after hauling in 16 passes for 289 yards and two scores.

Derek High (6-2, 250, Sr.) anchors a line that should include Heath Tarter (5-11, 230, Sr.) and Zac Coffey (5-10, 190, Sr.).

Click here for the 2007 Russell County schedule
(http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24747&action_name=)
West Jessamine (1-9)
Head coach: Wayne Stevens
2006: Missed the playoffs (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22671&id=&action_name=)

Injuries and inconsistency took its toll on West Jessamine last year as the Colts missed the playoffs for the third time in four years.

Head coach Wayne Stevens lost 12 seniors to graduation, but many of them were injured at some point last year, meaning several underclassmen got more playing than they thought they would in the preseason.

Zach Johnson (5-9, 190, Sr.) and Aaron Mann (6-1, 220, Jr.) return on the line and could be joined by David Sader (5-9, 230, Soph.), Cody Peel (6-2, 185, Jr.), and Tyler Collins (5-8, 185, Jr.).

Donovan Dickerson (5-8, 160, Sr.) is expected to move to quarterback and will benefit from the return of running back Alex Hughes (5-11, 90, Sr.), who rushed for 546 yards in eight games last year.

On defense, linebackers Caleb Coulliette (6-0, 165, Soph.) and Guilian Blanton (5-10, 165, Sr.) return to a unit that gave up points and yards in droves last year. The improvement on the defensive side of the football will tell how much improvement shows in wins and losses this year.

Click here for the 2007 West Jessamine schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24780&action_name=)


Western (10-2)
Head coach: Doug Preston
2006: Lost to Larue County 28-26 in the second round of the 2A playoffs (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb6?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=22673&id=&action_name=)

The Warriors had one of the best rushing teams in the state last season behind the two-headed monster that was Justin Collins and Ronnie Darden.

Collins led the Louisville-area in rushing but both have gradated, leaving Western coach Doug Preston with a number of holes to fill on offense.

But Preston is excited about the new season and the potential as the Warriors jump from Class 2A to Class 4A in the new state realignment.

Perhaps the best player returning for Western is two-year starter Delandre Woods, a 6-foot-1, 170-pound safety/wide receiver. He runs a 4.5 40-yard dash and led the Warriors with seven interceptions last season.

Junior Kenny McElroy (5-10, 200) will be among the top candidates to run the ball. He’s a three-year starter at linebacker. Junior Marquis Bucker and senior Joe Cardine are two other players who will carry the ball. Buckner is also a three-year starter on defense, while Cardine runs a 4.4 40-yard dash.

But there’s more talent in the fold at Western.

Tight end Dominique Patterson, linemen Rob Bales and Murrel Baker, safety Demontre Hayden, tight end/linebacker Dominique Young and lineman Raquan Adams are other multi-year starters returning.

Junior Devin High will play outside linebacker and might be the quarterback.

Western also has some youngsters that will help on the field, while Preston notes the line will be a key strength this season.

The Warriors should win 10-plus games again this season, as long as they can get through some inexperienced moments in the first few weeks.

Click here for the 2007 Western schedule (http://http://scoreboard.12dt.com/scoreboard/bluegrasspreps/kyfb07?source=bluegrasspreps&did=&tid=24782&action_name=)