Week 0 Preview

#2 Bell County vs. Alcoa, TN

It can happen that often that you start the High School football season with two defending state champions meeting in the opening game of the opening week.  Bell County fresh off its perfect 15-0 run to the Class 4A State Title hosts Alcoa, TN, 5 time defending Class 2A State champions.  Bell County lost a lot of key starters (QB, RB, FB, WR) while Alcoa returns quite a bit.  The Bobcats will have to slow it down (Alcoa is known for its athleticism, including Randall Cobb).  Should be a fun one on Log Mountain.

Middlesboro vs. Green County

The second game in the City/County Bowl at Bell County has Middlesboro hosting Green County.  Green County is known for having a strong running game (500 yards rushing against Hazard in the season opener last season).  Middlesboro has struggled to stop the run in the past.  This will be a good test in the first game of the season.  Keep your eye on Chase Roark.  The sophomore QB has a strong arm and has a year of starting under his belt.

#10 Knox Central vs. Somerset

Game number two of the Pioneer Bowl has some intrigue in it.  Head Coach Jay Cobb left the team about a week and a half ago.  The Briar Jumpers have been gashed by strong running teams in the past.  Knox Central just so happens to have a power running game led by an experienced and good offensive line (4 returning starters).

#9 Prestonsburg vs. #4 Belfry

It’s teacher versus student as John Derossett and the Blackcats host Philip Haywood and the Belfry Pirates.  P’burg lost a lot from last years team, but they always seem to find talent in the hallways.  Belfry has been a top 4 team in the Mountains the past several years, and that shouldn’t change this season.  Good traditional matchup, especially for an opening game.

#8 Letcher Central vs. South Laurel

The Charlie Banks’ Era at LCC is over.  The Logan Johnson Era begins.  The Sophomore has high expectations placed upon him.  That happens when you’re tall and are the cousin of Tim Couch.  South Laurel is under new direction this season.  Larry Welch returns to London (former North Laurel coach) to lead the Cardinals.  We should see a much more even offensive attack.

Outside the Mountains

A pair of mountain heavy weights leave the mountains for tough opening match ups.  WhitleyCounty goes on the road to face Lexington Catholic and Johnson Central faces preseason 4A #1 Boyle County.  They are tough games, but should give them a good measuring stick for the rest of the season.