2015 Football Preview

Messenger-Inquirer H Friday, August 21, 2015

High School

2015

Throwback

Owensboro Catholic QB Ray Zuberer looks to finish strong Story By Jim Pickens H Photo by Mike Clark H Messenger-Inquirer

H

e‘s a throwback to an increasingly bygone era.

Owensboro Catholic High School senior quarterback Ray Zuberer, who led the KHSAA in touchdown passes last year with an astonishing 56 in a mere 12 games, is a three-sport star who grew up the son of an accomplished coach and who puts as heavy an emphasis on his ability to lead as his ability to play football, basketball and baseball at an exceedingly high level.

Zuberer is the undisputed face of the Aces, and this is his last go-around for the green and gold.

“It’s flown by fast, it really has,” said the 6-foot, 165-pounder. “It seems like yesterday that I was a little guy looking up at (former Catholic lineman) Logan Cart on the football field and being scared to death.”

He chuckled.

“Each year,” he said, “it’s flown by faster and faster.”

And, each year, in each sport, Zuberer has performed with uncommon all-around excellence — throwing TD pass after TD pass in football, making one clutch 3-pointer after another in basketball, hitting for a high average and fielding at a high level on the baseball diamond.

And, despite the challenges that come with such a year-round work load, Zuberer has remained

appreciative of the opportunities to compete — and lead.

“I cherish every single day,” he said. “I’ve played a bunch of sports my whole life, so this is nothing really new to me. It’s become harder with each year because more expectations are put on your shoulders, but this is what I love to do. It’s been fun to move from one sport to another, it’s kept me out of trouble, it’s just been good for me all the way around.

“I’ve tried to bring a good attitude to practice and games every time I’ve stepped out there to compete. You have to have good attitude, you have to embrace it every single day, or it’s not going to work for you or the team you’re playing for. I’ve always tried to be a leader, a guy who has picked everyone up, kept everything positive.

“I’ve always believed that you can do anything you put your mind to.”

What Zuberer did on the gridiron last fall, in his first season as a varsity starting quarterback, was complete 219-of-360 passes (.608) for 3,661 yards and, yes, those 56 touchdown aerials. He also found time to rush for 198 yards and three TDs as Catholic finished 10-2 overall, falling to nemesis Murray in the second round of the Class 2-A playoffs.

“Ray’s a play-maker, a winner,” OCHS head coach John Edge said. “He’s a champion-level player in three high school sports, and that’s pretty special.

“He’s just a special athlete. He has that winning mindset you want your on-the-field leader to have.”

And the ever-confident Zuberer remains driven.

“I was pretty happy with the season I had last year, and I went into the season with a lot of confidence,” he said. “I expected to have a great year. It was a lot of fun being the quarterback of that style of offense.

“Looking back now, after studying film and seeing the mistakes I made, I know I could have done even better. I try to set the bar pretty high. This year, maybe I could throw for 60-plus touchdowns, throw for a thousand more yards.”

And yet, personal statistics mean precious little to Zuberer compared to how well the Aces perform collectively.

“It’s definitely all about the team,” he said.

“The records and stats don’t mean anything to me if we don’t win at a high level. This year, the goal is what it always is at Catholic: win the state championship. I want to help make my teammates See Throwback/Page 2

2 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015

Owensboro CAtholic

Zuberer bolsters Aces’ postseason outlook Ultimate goal remains being Class 2-A state champions

DEFENSE

By Jim Pickens

O

Messenger-Inquirer

wensboro Catholic experienced another banner football season in 2014, but yet another season-ending loss to Murray left a bitter taste in the mouth of the Aces, who, stunningly, have been eliminated from the postseason by the torturous Tigers in each of the past four seasons.

“We’ve been good, but we haven’t been good enough to get over the hump against Murray in recent years, the record shows that,” OCHS head coach John Edge said. “I know we’re tired of losing to those guys, and we’ve done everything we could do in the offseason to get bigger and stronger and better.

“This is a hard-working group of players who really understand what we’re trying to accomplish.

Everyone in camp seems to be on board, the attitude is great, and the kids are working very hard to become the best players they can be. They understand if they do that, it’s a big step toward us becoming the best team we can become.”

The ultimate goal at Owensboro Catholic never changes — the green and gold are seeking to become KHSAA Class 2-A state champions. As recent as 2010, the Aces played in the state championship game in Bowling Green, but Edge said his team’s saw must be sharpened considerably to reach that lofty plateau.

“We’re not there yet,” said Edge, whose team finished 10-2 last fall.

File photo “We’ve got to get better in Owensboro Catholic High School’s Shamari Morton carries the ball during a game in September 2014 at Steele Stadium. every area — every day, every week.”

2015 SCHEDULE

OFFENSE

Ray Zuberer, a 6-foot, 165-pound senior quarterback, leads the the Aces’ high-powered attack. Last year, Zuberer completed 219-of-360 passes for 3,661 yards and a state-best 56 touchdowns.

“Ray is outstanding back there,” Edge said.

“He’s talented, intelligent and a great competitor.

Hopefully, we can protect him a little better this season, and he won’t have to scramble as much back there.

“There’s no question, the offense starts with Ray. He’s the guy who makes us go.”

Edge insists, however, that to be their best the Aces must run the football with authority and create

Ray Zuberer

Jonathan Garner

a hard-to-predict balance that will keep opposing defenses guessing.

Jonathan Garner (5-9, 170, Sr.) is the feature back for the Aces, and Edge expects him to be multidimensional.

“He’s a solid player who will be counted on to run the football, catch the football and block well,” Edge said. “We’ll also be counting on (sophomore) Nick Blair and (freshman) Vonn Williams back there.

Both of them will see their share of action at running back.”

John Mark Boarman

Weston Jacob

Catholic’s wide receiver corps, meanwhile, includes senior Shamari Morton, junior Weston Jacob, senior Noah McCormack and junior Hayden Hartz.

“All four of these guys are capable of doing great things,” Edge said. “They all have good speed, and they all do a good job catching the football. We’ll need them to block well, too.”

The team’s tight end, when the formation calls for it, is likely to be freshman Noah Todd (6-2,

DATE...........................OPPONENT................................TIME 8/21.....................................Louisville Holy Cross.................................7 8/28.....................................Daviess County............................................7 9/4.......................................at Owensboro..............................................7 9/11.....................................South Spencer.............................................7 9/18.....................................Apollo..............................................................7 9/25.....................................Butler County...............................................7 10/2.....................................at McLean County......................................7 10/9.....................................Hancock County.........................................7 10/16..................................at Todd County Central............................7 10/30..................................North Hardin................................................7

205).

Edge expects significant improvement along the line, which features senior right tackle Isaac Arnold (6-3, 270), junior right guard David Weafer (6-2, 220), senior center Luke Reynolds (5-11, 210), left guards Will Marshall (6-3, 225, Jr.) and Jayden Hall (6-5, 245, Fr.), along with junior left

tackle Max Maloney.

“This group is better,” Edge said. “They’ve paid the price in the weight room, several of them gained valuable varsity experience last year, and they’ve developed into leaders.

“The top priority is to protect Ray Zuberer, and the second is to establish a running game.”

“This is a hard-working group of players who really understand what we’re trying to accomplish. Everyone in camp seems to be on board, the attitude is great, and the kids are working very hard to become the best players they can be.

They understand if they do that, it’s a big step toward us becoming the best team we can become.”

— John Edge

Owensboro Catholic head coach

throwback

think they can, we have an opportunity to have a very special season.”

Baseball remains Zuberer’s most likely avenue to college, and the from the front page Messenger-Inquirer All-Area shortstop would prefer to sign in November. better, I want us to finally beat Murray, “I just got offered by Western and I want us to come together as a Kentucky, after being part of a team more and more each week — showcase there this summer,” Zuberer that’s how you win championships. said. “Louisville has shown some “I really believe we can be better interest — we’ll just have to see how this year. Our offensive line is greatly things work out.” improved, we have some young, But baseball, and, indeed, skilled receivers who are getting it basketball, will have to wait as football done in practice every day, we’re going takes center stage in the opening act of to be able to run the ball when we Zuberer’s senior year — the climax of need to, and our defense looks like it’s a stupendous high school career. going to be pretty solid once again.

“This is it for me, and I expect to “If things fall together for us like I have a good year in every sport I play,”

he said. “My years at Owensboro Catholic have been the most special years of my life. I’ve not only become a better athlete there, I’ve become a better person, a better Christian. It’s everything, it’s the whole package at Catholic High that makes it special.

“Coach Edge has been a life-changer for me. I can go to him with any problem, and he’s going to help me with it. He’s energetic, a real motivator, and he’s always willing to take the time to listen. That’s something I will always appreciate.”

And Aces fans will forever appreciate the accomplishments of Ray Zuberer, an old-school throwback and one of Owensboro Catholic’s best-ever all-around athletes.

Owensboro Catholic will again feature a unit that gets to the ball quickly, Edge believes.

“This is a fast, quick defense, and I like what I’ve seen from this group in the preseason,” he said. “The group flies to the football, is very aggressive, tackles well and will be athletic enough to cover the entire field.”

Up front, the Aces will go with senior left end Randall Johnson (6-0, 195), sophomore nose tackle Will Stone (6-2, 235) and Todd.

Linebackers include senior star John Mark Boarman (5-11, 215), junior Houston Riney (6-0, 180), Blair (6-2, 210), junior Bailey McKay (6-0, 205) and senior Michael Mills (5-10, 172).

“John Mark is a talented player and will be a tremendous senior leader for us,” Edge said.

“He’s improved every year because of his work ethic and his competitiveness, and he’ll be a quality on-the-field leader for this bunch.”

The Catholic secondary will feature left cornerback Motez Gray (5-10, 165) and free safety Jacob (5-10, 175), along with senior right cornerback Nolan Elder (5-10, 155).

“We’re going to be solid all the way around,” Edge said of his defenders, “and we’ve got pretty good depth in spots, some in-team competition for starting spots, which is always good.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Andrew McIntosh returns as the starting place-kicker, and Elder is slated to handle the punting chores.

“They’re a good pair,” Edge said. “We need to polish things up a little, but by the third or fourth game I expect us to be completely on track in our kicking game.”

Top kick returners include Morton, Jacob and Gray.

“They’re all breakaway threats who can either score or set us up in good field position,” Edge said, “and we’ll rotate them to keep them fresh.”

OUTLOOK

The Aces expect to once again be ranked among the state’s top 10 teams in Class 2-A and have designs on developing into a title contender by November.

“I believe this team can be as good as it’s willing to make itself over the course of a season,” Edge said. “We need to have the mindset and mentality that we want to play much more than the 10 games we are guaranteed in the regular season.

“Other than that, it’s a matter of fitting the pieces of the puzzle together as quickly as possible and giving ourselves the best chance to win each and every week.”

3 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015 Football

3

OWENSBORO

Red Devils look to remain postseason force Fallin takes over as head coach following state finals appearance

BY MARK MATHIS

O

Messenger-Inquirer

wensboro High School has a new head coach and will have a different look in some spots on the football field.

But the Red Devils, who were state runners-up in Class 4-A last season, have the same goal in mind they’ve had the last two seasons —reach the KHSAA state championship game, again.

They will be trying to accomplish that mission in Class 5-A this season. “Having come up just short, it really filled us with a drive, a fire, this offseason and into the preseason; they’re very focused,� said Jay Fallin, who took over as head coach at OHS after Joe Prince retired and moved to another head coaching job in Virginia. “The guys talk about it a lot, almost so much that we have to change the subject sometimes, remind them we can’t win the state championship in July.

We’ve got to take it one day at a time.�

OHS built a 42-21 lead over Highlands at halftime of the state championship game but ended up losing a 49-42 heartbreaker to finish a 12-3 season. The Red Devils graduated a lot of talented seniors from that team, but they return a multitude of experienced players, with nine of 11 starters back on defense. “We feel great about the returning guys,� Fallin said. “We graduated a big senior class, we knew we had a lot of guys to replace at key positions, but we knew we had a lot of talent coming back, too. So we certainly feel good about the returning talent and the depth. “We’re going to be starting very few guys who are absolute first-time starters. Almost everybody in the huddle on both sides of the ball has some experience. That’s certainly a confidence builder.�

File photo

Owensboro High School’s Jahlil Barrett tries to break free from Highlands’ James Hinkel during the 2014 Class 4-A Russell Athletic/KHSAA Commonwealth Gridiron Bowl in December 2014 at L.T. Smith Stadium in Bowling Green.

346-pound senior all that we’ve defensive lineman, asked him to do and Trey Crowe and learn as a is a 6-2, 215-pound first-year starter senior who will also jumping into a new be a down lineman. offense,� Fallin There are four said. seniors starting OHS will have Zach KiShawn Vasaad at linebacker and a multiple look Gross Walker Greer four seniors in the but will be putting defensive backfield. the ball in the Gardner are good pass Gardner led OHS with hands of running backs catchers. Tavian Board is 88 tackles, and Tavian TJ James and Landon a 6-foot, 230-pound tight Board made 69 tackles Board a lot. James is a end. last season. Both return at 5-9, 175-pound senior who OHS will again be big linebacker. Quadri Tinsley rushed for 1,283 yards and and physical up front.

(5-10, 160) and Chris 18 touchdowns last season. Courtney Wright (5-10, Bartimus (5-10, 184) return 230, senior) is at guard, Board is a 5-7, 172-pound OFFENSE at linebacker. Malik Mundy and Lucas Williams is junior.

Owensboro’s offense (5-10, 186) is a junior who a 6-5, 335-pound senior “We will run the ball will have a different rotates in at linebacker. more than we throw it, but tackle. Hunter Askins is look with Zach Gross at Barrett and Walker we will be multiple,� Fallin a 6-foot, 300-pound junior quarterback. The junior return at cornerback, said. “You’ve got a running guard, and Tripp Grenier takes over for Nick Locher, back like TJ and another while James is at strong is 6-1, 300 pounds at who was a multi-year safety and Matt Bartimus running back like Landon tackle. Nate Humphrey is starter for the Devils a sophomore who will start (5-9, 167, senior) is at free Board, you want to try with a system that relied as a 6-2, 280-pound center. safety. to get them the ball. But heavily on the quarterback we’ve got a lot of athletes Overall, it would be option. difficult to find a more DEFENSE out on the edge, and we Gross is 5-foot-10, 175 experienced defensive unit OHS is very want to try and get them pounds and has a good in western Kentucky. experienced and very the ball, too.� enough arm to get the ball “They’re a group of skilled on the defensive Barrett is a 5-6, to the variety of outside side, and it would be hard veterans, most have 134-pound senior with a receivers such as KiShawn lot of speed at receiver. He to find a weak spot on that started in almost 40 Walker and Jahlil Barrett. games. They’ve seen a lot,� caught 18 passes for 373 unit. “Zach is taking Fallin said. “The biggest yards and five touchdowns Quamari Tinsley is a real snaps for the first last season. Walker is 6-1, 5-9, 283-pound junior nose thing is just the confidence time, and he’s done a they have. They’ve all 165, and GeKove Gardner guard in the 50 defense. tremendous job with been starting since they is 5-10, 180. Walker and Vasaad Greer is a 6-1,

2015 SCHEDULE DATE................... OPPONENT.......................................TIME 8/21............................at Warren Central................................................ 7 8/28............................Madisonville-North Hopkins......................... 7 9/4..............................Owensboro Catholic......................................... 7 9/11............................at Bowling Green................................................ 7 9/18............................at Daviess County............................................... 7 10/2............................Christian County................................................. 7 10/9............................Marshall County.................................................. 7 10/16.........................at Apollo................................................................. 7 10/23.........................at Graves County................................................ 7 10/30.........................Henderson County............................................ 7

were sophomores, they’re great at knowing their assignment, knowing where they need to get to.

When you know that, you can play really fast.�

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Red Devils are more than capable of scoring with either punt or kickoff returns. James, Barrett and Walker will all be involved in the return game.

Nicholas Brake is a sophomore kicker. Taking over the punting duties from Locher will be senior Dallas Barnett.

OUTLOOK

For the Red Devils

“We feel great about the returning guys. We graduated a big senior class, we knew we had a lot of guys to replace at key positions, but we knew we had a lot of talent coming back, too. So we certainly feel good about the returning talent and the depth.� — Jay Fallin

Owensboro head coach

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to advance in the 5-A playoffs, they’ll have to go through Christian County in their district and perennial powerhouse Bowling Green in their region. OHS also plays BG during the regular season.

Still, the Red Devils appear to be good enough to be a threat in 5-A if they progress throughout the season. “We’ve got a tough schedule,� Fallin said. “We’re going to play a lot of quality teams early in the season. The kids have stepped up, accepted the challenge of trying to repeat the success we’ve had in previous years, which isn’t always easy.�

4 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015

DAVIESS COUNTY

File photo

Daviess County High School’s Chase LeCroy fends off a Henderson County tackler during a game Oct. 10, 2014, at DCHS.

Panthers looking to initiate new culture

Brannon takes over program that posted 4-7 record last season

By Joseph Russell

of his passes and also added two rushing scores while tossing 12 ith first-year head coach Matt Brannon interceptions.

Bouchard admitted he at the helm, the may have forced some Daviess County High things downfield as an School football team is focused on forming a new inexperienced sophomore, but he’s more relaxed and identity in 2015. focused on making the The Panthers slipped easy plays as a junior. to 4-7 last season after “Our offensive line is going 6-5 the previous year — the program’s first great, and I’m just more winning season since 2008. comfortable with the system,” he said. “We’re They claimed victories ready to see some great over Apollo, Muhlenberg talent out there, and I County, Marshall County think we’re going to have a and Ohio County before great season.” falling to St. Xavier in the Senior Jared McEwen first round of the KHSAA returns as Bouchard’s Class 6-A state playoffs. back-up.

Though 2014 yielded DC’s revamped rushing some positive results attack will be led by a for DC, including the emergence of quarterback pair of dual threats in Adam Bouchard, Brannon seniors Chase LeCroy and his players are ready (5-9, 195) and Samuel to put the past behind Spiceson (5-11, 170). them.

Spiceson tallied 773 total “We want to set yards (472 rushing, 301 realistic expectations,” receiving) and seven said Brannon, who joined touchdowns last year, the DC staff as defensive while LeCroy accumulated coordinator in 2004.

766 yards (326 rushing, “Making a deep run in 440 receiving) and eight the playoffs is one of the scores. things we want to do. We “With those two, I really want to do things that feel like we’re going to haven’t been done here establish our run game,” before.”

Brannon said.

The Panthers have switched to a single-back OFFENSE zone run scheme, with Bouchard returns as the starting signal-caller additional multi-back for the Panthers after a packages for goal-line breakout campaign in situations.

2014.

“It excites me, because The 6-foot-5, 170-pound I’ll be able to touch the ball multi-sport athlete threw a lot more and help out the for 2,509 yards and 24 team,” LeCroy said. “We’re touchdowns last season. pretty excited. We’ve been He completed 55 percent practicing hard, and we’re Messenger-Inquirer

W

excited to see what we’ve been can happen this working together. year.”

It’s one big group Senior Jordan now instead of five Lee will be the individuals.” third rusher.

John Stratton DEFENSE (6-4, 190) returns Senior Luke Adam as DC’s top Baird (6-2, 205) Bouchard downfield threat will anchor the after finishing with defensive line 1,008 yards and as the Panthers nine touchdowns a will keep their year ago. McEwen 4-3 Cover 2 base and senior Darrius defense. Baird finished with 60 Jones (6-0, 155) tackles last year, will round out the and additional Panthers’ receiving Samuel contributions are group.

Spiceson expected from “I’m very Moore, Evans, excited, and I think Rhinerson and the whole team others. just has a new According mindset this year,” to Baird, DC Stratton said. “We will have to stay think we can go focused to reach in and compete its lofty goals this against anybody, Luke year. and that’s a good Baird “Expectations mindset to have. are set high,” he said. “I It’s a team-wide attitude. feel like the coaches are We have the ability, we’re pushing us pretty hard, coached well, and I think even during the winter, we can go far.” just to help us learn. I As for Stratton’s know we’ll be ready when strategy to top last we come out. We all have year’s production, his approach is simple: “More the same goal — to win games — but we have to touchdowns.” go game by game to keep The Panthers’ the momentum going.” starting offensive line Lee (5-9, 170) is a — comprised entirely of three-year starter at seniors — will be led by outside linebacker and center Dylan Rhinerson will serve as captain after (6-0, 220), who Brannon finishing with 93 tackles called “one of the best linemen in the city.” Other last season. He’ll be joined by junior Braxton Hurley, starters include Dylan who tied for a team-high Moore, Delante James, 109 stops in 2014.

Jacob Davis, and Dylan Spiceson (67 tackles) Evans. will move down from “This year, we’ve become close,” Rhinerson safety to take over middle said of the line. “Last year, linebacker duties.

“He’s the fastest kid on we weren’t very close. the team,” Brannon said This year we have that of Spiceson.

“When you chemistry together, we get along well, and all summer put that in the middle of a

“We want to make it to our regional championship, as well as compete and make some noise in our very tough district. Obviously, winning the City-County championship is weighing heavily on us too. It hasn’t happened very much for us, but that’s something we would really like to do.”

— Matt Brannon

Daviess County head coach

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2015 SCHEDULE DATE..................... OPPONENT........................................ TIME 8/21..............................at Allen County-Scottsville............................... 7 8/28..............................at Owensboro Catholic....................................... 7 9/4................................Warren East.............................................................. 7 9/11..............................at Hancock County............................................... 7 9/18..............................Owensboro.............................................................. 7 9/25..............................at McCracken County.......................................... 7 10/9..............................Muhlenberg County............................................ 7 10/16...........................Henderson County............................................... 7 10/23...........................at Ohio County....................................................... 7 10/30...........................Apollo......................................................................... 7

the offseason, Brannon expects big improvements from his squad in 2015.

“We want to make it to our regional championship, as well as compete and make some noise in our very tough district,” he said.

“Obviously, winning the City-County championship is weighing heavily on us too. It hasn’t happened very much for us, but that’s something we SPECIAL TEAMS would really like to do.”

Senior Cole Perhaps the most Monanteras, a forward on the DC boys’ soccer team, encouraging sign for the Panthers’ coaching staff will be the place-kicker, is that the players want while Cameron Ballard, to instill a new culture of who will also see time winning just as badly. on the offensive and “We want to break defensive lines, will kick tradition,” Rhinerson said. extra points.

“We just want to have a McEwen will serve as better team than what’s the team’s punter. been in the past here at Daviess County. We want OUTLOOK With a more productive to start something new.

“Daviess County run game and a special should be a great football teams group that program, and we want to progressed through start that this year.”

4-3 concept, he can cover sideline to sideline. He’s physical, too.”

Senior Gage Long will return to start at cornerback, while junior newcomers Jonathan and Jordan Powell will take over the starting safety roles. Jones, Stratton and Alec Payne, among others, will also contribute in the secondary.

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5 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015 Football

5

Apollo

Eagles seek fast start to build confidence Program has five consecutive 2-9 campaigns

By Jim Pickens

F

Messenger-Inquirer

ive consecutive 2-9 football seasons at Apollo High School notwithstanding, the senior-laden Eagles believe it’s their turn to soar in 2015.

“We’re excited about where we’re at and where we want to go — it’s been a really good preseason for us,” fourth-year Apollo head coach Dan Crume said. “We have players in our senior class who have really grown over the past three years, and they’re hungry to experience success on the football field.

“The mindset here is positive, and we have a number of quality leaders.

We’re anxious to compete as hard as we possibly can week in and week out and see what happens.”

The Eagles, who open tonight against Muhlenberg County, believe getting off to a fast start this fall will be critical to the team’s success.

“Oh, I think it’s very important for any successful team to build early momentum,” Crume said. “We’ve stumbled out of the gate the past couple of years, and that’s something we need to avoid. With some early success, this team has an opportunity to gain the type of confidence that could carry us a long way this season.”

OFFENSE

At the controls for the Eagles will be junior quarterback Brandon Alexander (6-foot, 170 pounds, Jr.), who completed 36-of-73 passes for 498 yards and seven touchdowns a year ago — splitting the signal-calling duties with Michael Rascoe.

“Brandon’s done the job in the weight room, getting bigger and stronger,” Crume said.

“He’s also proved a lot in the preseason, and he needs to continue to prove himself as we get into the season.

“He’s starting to grasp what (Apollo assistant) coach (Scotty) Vance is teaching him about the offense, and I believe he’ll continue to show improvement as the season moves along, as he gains more confidence.”

Apollo’s feature running back will be Bryson Morris, a 5-11, 180-pound senior who rushed 33 times for 211 yards and three touchdowns in limited duty last fall. Corey Satterfield, Nic Brooks and Brent Willis will also see duty.

“We’re expecting big things from Bryson,” Crume said. “He’s capable of helping us in a lot of ways.

The Eagles will showcase a veteran line consisting of seniors Cole Crume (6-3, 230), Dylan Clark (6-5, 260) and Matt Wedding (6-0, 195), along with juniors Logan Eans (5-11, 265) and Adam Hertzler (5-10, 225), plus hard-charging sophomore Jared Gibbs (6-1, 240).

File photo

Apollo High School’s Michael Rascoe carries the ball during a game Oct. 17, 2014, at Apollo’s Eagle Stadium.

The receiving DEFENSE corps is led by Apollo Rates Lewis, who surrendered a caught 37 passes whopping 477 for 643 yards and points last fall, but nine touchdowns Crume believes last fall. Rascoe the Eagles will be will move from QB much more stingy Brandon to slot back-tight this time around.

Alexander end, and Wan’ye “We’ve got a lot Cain will also be of hard-working an aerial target for guys on defense Alexander. who have worked Red-zone very hard to production is at become bigger, the top of the list stronger, faster, regarding Apollo’s better,” Crume points of emphasis said. “This bunch Bryson on offense. has a chance to Morris “In a lot of get after it pretty games last year we good.” moved the football The Eagles’ up and down the front four will field between the consist of end 20-yard lines, but Willis, tackle Clark, we had a lot of tackle Crume and trouble getting end Hunter Wilson, into the end zone,” a 5-10, 165-pound Cole Crume said. “The Crume senior. Crume focus throughout expects heavy the summer, throughout rotation. the preseason has been to “We have some better finish this season. depth this year, and that’s “One of the things going to be key for us,” he that could help us this said. “We’ll be able to keep year is our balance. We guys pretty fresh up front were very run-oriented and still have an effective last season, but with unit on the field.”

Brandon’s improvement, A host of players will I believe we’ll be a lot see action at linebacker, more balanced and, thus, including Crume, a lot less predictable on sophomore Gatlin offense.

Humphrey (6-2, 210), “I really like the look of senior Tyler Mills (5-9, this attack.”

165), Hertzel, Morris,

sophomore Brooks (5-10, 155) and senior Keaton Teasley (5-9, 165).

The secondary will include senior Cain (5-8, 145), senior Noah Lanham (6-0, 155), sophomore Preston Peters (5-10, 140), junior Satterfield (5-10, 165) and senior Nathan Pearl (5-9, 165), as well as the multidimensional Rascoe.

2015 SCHEDULE DATE............................OPPONENT...............................TIME 8/21...................................... Muhlenberg County................................7 8/28...................................... South Warren..............................................7 9/4........................................ at Logan County........................................7 9/11...................................... Butler County.............................................7 9/18...................................... at Owensboro Catholic..........................7 9/25...................................... Graves County............................................7 10/9...................................... at Christian County..................................7 10/16................................... Owensboro..................................................7 10/23................................... at Marshall County...................................7 10/30................................... at Daviess County.....................................7

SPECIAL TEAMS

Wes Knott is set to handle the Eagles’ place-kicking duties, but any one of three or four candidates could emerge as the first-string punter.

Apollo figures to have some explosive speed in its return game, which will feature breakaway threats Morris, Lewis and Cain.

“Special teams is one of the areas of performance that can be the difference between winning and losing, and we’re putting a lot of emphasis on it this

year,” Crume said. “It’s a critical part of the game, and we want to absolutely be as sharp as we can be in every phase of special teams play.”

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“This team has prepared themselves well, and we’re ready to go. We’ve got a challenging schedule, and we’re going to have to be sharp right out of the gate, but this team’s mindset is very strong and determined.”

— Dan Crume

Apollo head coach

OUTLOOK

Crume insists the Class 5-A Eagles believe they can turn things around this fall.

“This team has prepared themselves well, and we’re ready to go,” he said. “We’ve got

a challenging schedule, and we’re going to have to be sharp right out of the gate, but this team’s mindset is very strong and determined.

“We’d love to get off to a fast start. That would do wonders for our confidence, and it would be exciting for our program and our school. We’ve been building, building, building, and we’re all hoping this can be the season we break through.”

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6 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015

Hancock County

Hornets will rely on experience up front Long-time assistant Eubanks takes over as head coach

Guard Austin Fuqua is a 5-10, 250-pound sophomore who will be a first-year starter after senior Ethan Powers broke a leg in practice a week ago. Powers was a three-year starter and a captain.

“I pulled the offensive line in and talked to them about they’ve

BY MARK MATHIS all got to step up,” Eubanks said.

Messenger-Inquirer “It doesn’t matter who is playing ancock County finished 5-6 what position, we’ve all got to get it done.” last season, but it wasn’t With some shuffling on the really close to where the offensive line, Justin Smith Hornets wanted to be.

“We had a lot of expectations moved to center. The 5-10, 235-pound senior had been last year, but we lost some mainly working on defense. games we should have won,” “He was more than willing to said Bobby Eubanks, the step in,” Eubanks said. “He was first-year head coach of the asking us to print off copies of Hornets who had been an plays right there for him to study.” assistant for several seasons.

Walker Hoheimer is another Hancock County graduated a three-year starter, and the 5-11, sizable senior class that carried the weight of those expectations, 235-pounder will be at guard.

“If I need something done I and Eubanks is hoping the Hornets can ride an experienced can tell him ‘I need you to go talk to the guys,’ ” Eubanks said. offensive and defensive line to Keaton McCollam is a 5-10, greater success.

235-pound senior who will be at “Our strength is offensive tackle. line and defensive line, they’re Koert Morris graduated at the leaders on our team, and quarterback, and filling his spot we’re going to lean heavily on them to get us where we want to will be Tyler Kratzer, a 6-foot, 180-pound junior who was a go,” Eubanks said. receiver last season. Hancock County will run a Wing-T OFFENSE formation and throw some play A young player could be the action passes out of it. big anchor for that offensive With the Wing-T, the Hornets line. Hancock County is expecting big things from Coby will use a deep group of running backs.

Kircharr, a 6-foot-3, 270-pound tackle who started as a See Hornets/Page 8 freshman last year.

H

2015 SCHEDULE DATE..................................OPPONENT................................................. TIME 8/21..............................................Grayson County................................................................7 8/28..............................................at Union County................................................................7 9/4................................................at Ohio County..................................................................7 9/11..............................................Daviess County..................................................................7 9/18..............................................at Muhlenberg County..................................................7 9/25..............................................Todd County Central.......................................................7 10/2..............................................at Butler County................................................................7 10/9..............................................at Owensboro Catholic..................................................7 10/23...........................................McLean County.................................................................7 10/30...........................................Breckinridge County.......................................................7

Greg Eans/Messenger-Inquirer

Hancock County High School running back Andrew Anderson runs the ball during practice Aug. 11 at the school in Hawesville.

Ohio County

Eagles seeking to remedy last season’s woes Program trying to bounce back from 0-10 campaign

he said. “Our focus is to continue to improve every time we step in a classroom or on a field.”

OFFENSE

Sophomore Heath Simmons steps in at

By Joseph Russell quarterback after seeing Messenger-Inquirer brief action last season.

The 6-foot-3, 180-pound hio County High signal-caller played in five School struggled last games, completing 6-of-8 year under first-year attempts for 47 yards with coach Jody Ashby, but one touchdown and one the Eagles have plans to interception. remedy that in 2015.

Though Morris — the Ashby, now with a team’s leading rusher year of experience under a year ago — is gone, his belt, lost starting Simmons will look to quarterback Nate Morris to graduation but returns a help increase the Eagles’ balanced group of athletes scoring output from the 13.8 points per game they that will look to bounce averaged in 2014. back from last season’s Freshman Caleb 0-10 performance.

Kennedy is another The Eagles had a few quarterback. chances for victories, as Senior Brice Phelps they opened last season with a narrow 14-13 defeat returns as a jack-of-alltrades for the Eagles. to Muhlenberg County Phelps, a 5-11, before later falling 50-48 to 165-pounder, rushed Apollo in overtime. Ohio for 351 yards and two County then closed the season with a 33-22 loss to touchdowns last season, in addition to the team-best Daviess County.

63 passes he hauled in After several months for 654 yards and seven of preparation, Ashby scores. He’ll see time at said he’s encouraged by running back and wide his team’s work ethic and receiver, to go along with efforts to get better in quarterback and defensive 2015. duties.

“We had a good Also expected to help offseason and summer,”

O

2015 SCHEDULE DATE....................... OPPONENT...................................TIME 8/21.................................Calloway County.............................................7 8/28.................................McLean County...............................................7 9/4...................................Hancock County.............................................7 9/11.................................at Grayson County.........................................7 9/18.................................Breckinridge County.....................................7 9/25.................................at Henderson County...................................7 10/2.................................at McCracken County...................................7 10/16..............................Muhlenberg County.....................................7 10/23..............................Daviess County................................................7 10/30..............................at Butler County..............................................7

Ohio County High School’s Chris Thompson performs a drill during practice Aug. 11 at the school in Hartford.

Photo by Mike Clark, Messenger-Inquirer

with the run game is senior Colbren Inglis (6-1, 190), who rushed for 117 yards and a touchdown last season. Others expected to contribute include senior Alex Hunt (5-10, 188), junior Jacob Richards (5-8, 165) and sophomore Travis Unsel.

In addition to Phelps, wide receivers for Ohio County will include Noah Miller (5-9, 180), who caught 17 passes for 164 yards and three TDs last year, as well as senior Max Leisure (5-9, 157), who hauled in one pass for an 8-yard TD. Junior Chris Thompson (6-0, 145) will also see action.

On the offensive line, See Eagles/Page 8

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7 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015 Football

7

Mclean County

Cougars looking to improve consistency Big freshman class adds depth, with 48 players on roster

175-pound senior, is the leading returning rusher for the Cougars with 447 yards.

He has some legitimate quickness in the hybrid Wing-T offense. Brycen Parker is a 5-9, 175-pound senior fullback who was injured last season. Parker and Jacob Rickard (5-9, 175, senior) will be splitting time at fullback.

Jordan Revlett will return as quarterback for his senior season to run the offense, which also includes some jet and rocket sweeps and some belly series.

“We also forsee being able to put in Trevor Turley at quarterback as well,” Wagner said. “He’s a pretty good athlete, and we would like to put him in to run some Wing-T schemes.”

McLean County returns one side of its offensive line, seniors Kyle Patton (5-9, 210) and Houston Mason (5-11, 225).

“They’re quick and can run all of our pulling schemes fairly well,” Wagner said.

Center Colby Cline is a 5-10, 215-pound junior. The right side of the line has two juniors, Alex Webb (5-11, 195) and Elisha Knight (6-1, 185).

The Cougars throw very little out of their offensive sets.

BY MARK MATHIS

M

Messenger-Inquirer

cLean County got rolling early last season, winning four of its first five games.

Once Class 2-A, District 2 play began, the schedule and some execution shortfalls caught up with the Cougars.

“Besides the Owensboro Catholic game, we were in every game,” McLean County coach Zach Wagner said.

“We had a fumble here, a blown passing assignment there. I still have bad dreams about Hancock County. We still haven’t been able to put together a full game.”

Catholic dropped McLean County 60-7, and the Cougars lost a tight 13-6 decision to Hancock County during a four-game losing streak. The Cougars finished 5-5 with a 54-6 win over Webster County to close the season.

This is Wagner’s third season at McLean County, and he is thinking that with a little luck and some consistency on both sides of the ball, the Cougars could climb above .500 this season.

“It’s the same offense, the same defense, we’ve got more kids this year, they’re coaching their peers up,” Wagner said.

“Kids are responding well to hard coaching. The first year if got on them, they broke. Now, they’re correcting their own mistakes.”

The Cougars have 48 players out, including 18 freshmen.

DEFENSE

The Cougars will employ a 3-5-3 defensive setup because they don’t have an abundance of experienced size on the line.

Rickard is the nose guard.

“He is small but quick and like a little wrestler type,” Wagner said. “He will command double teams because he’s so quick.”

Logan Vaught is a sophomore defensive tackle at 5-10, 190. Colton Johnson is File photo one of those freshmen who will McLean County High School defensive back Trevor Turley, right, leaps to make an interception during a get an early chance to be in the game Sept. 12, 2014, in Calhoun. rotation at 6-1, 195. Mason is listed as a backup at one of the “That’s up a little bit,” Wagner the part. The freshmen linemen ready game-speed wise.” defensive said of the overall numbers. “It’s outweigh a lot of the varsity. possible (the freshmen could Probably by mid-year some will OFFENSE See Cougars/Page 8 contribute). Physically they look get the opportunity. They’re not Hayden Smith, a 5-foot-10,

Muhlenberg County

Photo by Mike Clark, Messenger-Inquirer

Muhlenberg County High School’s John Gilbert does a tackling drill during practice Aug. 11 at MCHS’s west campus in Greenville.

Mustangs focused on taking big step forward Squad finished 4-7 last year after opening season with three straight wins

By Joseph Russell

W

Messenger-Inquirer

ith a wealth of experience returning to the Mustangs, coach Hays Browning expects the Muhlenberg County High School football program to take a big step forward in 2015.

The Mustangs opened last season with three straight wins before dropping seven of their next eight games, including a loss to Bryan Station in the first round of the KHSAA Class 6-A playoffs.

Muhlenberg County finished 4-7 in Browning’s first year as coach, but he sees plenty of potential for improvement this season — if his players continue to fight for it.

“We want to translate how hard they’ve worked in the offseason in the

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weight room and in conditioning to the football field,” Browning said. “These guys have learned how to work and push themselves, and now it’s time to see that translate to Friday nights.

“We’re harping on them constantly — can you consistently show up and give us your best effort? When they do, we have the talent to be a dangerous team.”

OFFENSE

Junior Hunter Combs will return as the starting quarterback after throwing for 720 yards with seven touchdowns and eight interceptions last season. The 5-foot-9, 185-pound dual threat did most of his damage on the ground, however, as he rushed for 747 yards and seven scores.

“He started as a sophomore, so he’s got a lot of experience,” Browning said.

“We’re looking for him to step up in his leadership role on offense. He’s had a great summer just getting the details down. He’s our general on that side of the ball — a threat to run and pass — and people have to prepare for him.”

See Mustangs/Page 8

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8 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 21, 2015

linebacker types and tr y to use that to our advantage,” Wagner said.

The defensive backfield could stand out with Turley leading at safety. The 5-11, 145-pound junior led the area with five interceptions and he also was in on 22 tackles.

“We will move him around some,” Wagner said.

mustangs From Page 7

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DATE..................................OPPONENT............................................................ TIME 8/21..............................................at Apollo............................................................................................. 7 8/28..............................................at Logan County............................................................................. 7 9/4................................................Hopkins County Central.............................................................. 7 9/11..............................................at McLean County.......................................................................... 7 9/18..............................................Hancock County............................................................................. 7 10/2..............................................Henderson County........................................................................ 7 10/9..............................................at Daviess County........................................................................... 7 10/16...........................................at Ohio County................................................................................ 7 10/23...........................................McCracken County........................................................................ 7 10/30...........................................Grayson County.............................................................................. 7

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When the ball’s in the air, they can go make a play on it. We’ll rotate guys in to try to keep them fresh.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Franklin will be the team’s place-kicker after hitting three extra points last year, and Combs will be the punter.

White, Drake and Johnson will handle kick and punt returns.

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OUTLOOK

After capturing a school-record six wins two years ago, Browning said his seniors have goals to eclipse that number in 2015.

“We’ve talked to the kids, especially the seniors, about how we’ve got some momentum in the program,” he said. “The seniors talk about going out with the most wins in a season, and we’re trying to improve every day and every week.”

Though the team slipped to 4-7 last season, Browning added, he thinks the program is headed in the right direction.

“We’re just building each year, just trying to do what we do and keep getting better,” he said, noting that he feels more comfortable entering his second year at the helm. “The first year, your head is spinning with trying to lay the foundation. Year two should be a lot more focusing on the football aspect. Even with our record last year, we think we’ve improved the program, and we’re ready to keep working.”

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“They’re all strong, physical kids,” Browning said. “We’re tr ying to make five block three with our block-eaters up front. So far, we’re really proud of the way those guys have worked and come along.”

Inside linebackers will be Snyder and fellow senior Eli Doss. Snyder, a three-year starter, tallied 39 tackles and two interceptions last year, while Doss had nine tackles and recovered two fumbles.

“Both of those guys come back with a lot of experience,” Browning said. “Snyder has played more snaps — he started some games when he was a freshman. We’ll look for him to be our leader on defense.

Eli Doss is an old-school type linebacker, he’ll hit anything that shows up.”

Senior Hunter Bruce (5-11, 175) and junior Terrell Wilson (6-1, 184) will round out the outside linebacker positions. Both finished with 14 tackles a year ago, and Bruce snagged one interception.

White (24 tackles, three interceptions) and Drake (13 tackles, two interceptions) will return as leaders of the Mustangs’ secondary. They’ll also be joined

by Franklin (32 tackles), Johnson (24 tackles) and Combs (34 tackles, one interception, one fumble recovery).

“We’ve got a few guys back there going both ways,” Browning said of his defensive backs. “They’re just really athletic, so we try to put them in positions to make plays.

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Senior Brandon Payne, junior Billy Mallory and sophomore Kamerin Hall will start on the line in Muhlenberg’s 3-4 defense.

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SPECIAL TEAMS

McLean County’s kicker is Kirsten Ayer, who is on the girls’ soccer team. Offensive guard Kyle Patton has emerged as the team’s best punter.

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The Mustangs will continue to employ a one- and two-back shotgun offense, which will give Combs plenty of options.

Senior Hunter Snyder (6-3, 198) will back up Combs.

Senior Logan Franklin (5-10, 198) and junior Demond Johnson will split carries at running back.

Franklin rushed for 278 yards and two touchdowns last year, and Johnson added 179 yards and a score as a pair of reserves.

“They both rotated in and got several reps last year,” Browning said. “Logan will get you tough yards and has enough speed to be dangerous. Demond looks to run you over, and he’s got some speed as well.”

Seniors Raeton White and Kobe Drake will lead the Mustangs’ receivers. White (5-11, 172) caught 18 passes for 406 yards and four TDs last year, while Drake (6-0, 165) had 95 yards and three scores.

Senior Alec Winters (6-2, 185) will provide a big target across the middle, and senior Jojo Peay will also be key.

Perhaps the least experienced group is the offensive line, comprised of senior Taylor Griffin, juniors Logen Bumgardner and Brian Mason and sophomores Cameron Gonzalez and Logan Conway.

“They’re inexperienced, so we’re pushing them hard in practice every day just to get them to understand schemes and get more physical,” Browning said.

“Everything starts up front, and we’ve seen a lot of improvement since early August. They keep getting better.”

Seniors Jacob Baldwin (5-8, 155) and Daron Burroughs (5-11, 175) will be at the cornerback spots.

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OUTLOOK

McLean County could have made the playoffs with some better execution against a couple of teams last season.

“We definitely want to continue to be competitive,” Wagner said. “Against better competition we get gun shy still. We led Union at the half. We played with Butler County. The playoffs are absolutely a goal. It hasn’t been done here in awhile. You always need a little luck.

One or two injuries would decimate us.”

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tackle spots, and Matthew Ball is another backup at tackle.

The standup ends are Dakota Patton, a 5-8, 175-pound junior, and Parker.

Revlett was a standout at linebacker for McLean County last season, getting in on 61 tackles.

The 5-10, 145-pounder is generally around the football.

“He also had several knockdowns and an interception,” Wagner said.

Smith and Jacob Enoch, a 5-8 , 155-pound junior, will suit up at outside linebacker. Knight is also a linebacker.

“We want quick

DATE.........................OPPONENT.....................................TIME 8/21.................................. Breckinridge County.......................................7 8/28.................................. at Ohio County..................................................7 9/4.................................... Crittenden County...........................................7 9/11.................................. Muhlenberg County........................................7 9/18.................................. at Hopkins County Central...........................7 10/2.................................. Owensboro Catholic.......................................7 10/9.................................. at Todd County Central..................................7 10/16............................... Butler County.....................................................7 10/23............................... at Hancock County..........................................7 10/30............................... at Webster County...........................................7

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Me

From Page 7

2015 SCHEDULE

The main return players will be Burroughs, Smith and Turley.

“If they catch a seam, they could get some yards,” Wagner said.

READ sse E

cougars

SPECIAL TEAMS

Stevens returns after booting

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DEFENSE

Hoping to improve from the 46.8

OUTLOOK

The Eagles open 2015 with three consecutive home games, starting with tonight’s matchup against Calloway County.

With new KHSAA alignments made throughout the state during the offseason, Ohio County will now compete in Class 6-A after playing in 5-A since 2011. Other teams in the Eagles’ district include Daviess County, Henderson County, McCracken County and Muhlenberg County.

Ashby didn’t mention specific win or loss totals he’d like to achieve this season, but his goals for the team are clear. “(We want to be) fundamentally sound and play with great effort,” he said. “The expectation for this season is to continue our pursuit of ‘Max Q.’ “

OUTLOOK

The Hornets hope to get going early on the way to a solid, successful season.

“The goal is to come out and win the games we’re supposed to win,” Eubanks said. “We’ve told them we can do what we want to do, having the group that we have coming back, the core group of linemen and the skill kids.”

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seven extra points last season.

McCord Thomas, also the goalkeeper for the boys’ soccer team, is listed as the team’s lone punter.

READ sse E

eagles

points per game they allowed in 2014, Phelps will once again look to lead the Eagles’ defense after leading the team with 59 tackles and From Page 6 three interceptions as a defensive back last season. the Eagles lost a wealth of Up front, Ohio County will experience with the graduation of depend on Brown (46 tackles), Luke Shaffer, Treyez Saulsberry Casteel (14 tackles) and Frady (10 and Cheyton Pendley, but Ashby tackles) to help eat space in the said he expects big things from Eagles’ 4-3 base defense. senior center Jesse Brown (6-1, Returning to lead the linebackers 280), junior tackle Jacob Frady (6-0, will be Hunt and Miller, who 230) and sophomore tackle Blaine finished last year with 45 and 27 Casteel (6-4, 262). tackles, respectively.

Other offensive linemen for Phelps will pace the secondary the Eagles include seniors Jaron with help from Inglis, who tallied Ferguson (6-5, 245) and Cameron 52 tackles and an interception in Hines (6-0, 212), as well as 2014. Sophomore Seth Stevens sophomores Dylan Alsman and Robert Zunun and freshmen Colton finished last year with 24 tackles as a defensive back.

Holland and Jonah Wisnewski.

Ashby said other big Ashby said Ohio County will contributions will need to come continue to use multiple offensive formations in order to keep defenses from Unsel, Richards, Leisure, Thompson and Simmons. guessing.

READ sse E

“We’ve got six kids who can really carry the ball,” Eubanks said. “They’re pushing each other in practice, and that’s an awesome thing to watch.”

Among those runners is Tanner Singleton, a 5-9, 155-pound sophomore, fullback Garrett Hedden, a 6-foot, 205-pound senior,

punter, as is Kircharr.

“Beaver has no experience at punter, but he was out there kicking by himself and hitting it, so we’re working with him, trying to get his steps down,” Eubanks said.

The returners will be Smith and Singleton.

“They can make cuts and make people miss,” Eubanks said.

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From Page 6

a 6-1, 225-pound sophomore. sophomore, will also be at linebacker.

DEFENSE Beaver and Sutton will The Hornets will work be at cornerback. Sutton out of a 4-4 defensive was a Messenger-Inquirer alignment.

All-Area second team pick.

Hoheimer and Kircharr Tanner Singleton, a 5-9, will play at defensive end.

155-pound sophomore, will Herndon and three-year be at safety. starter Smith will be the defensive tackles.

SPECIAL TEAMS Hedden is back at Tyler Johnson will do the linebacker after suffering kicking after handling extra a concussion last season. points and kickoffs last Smith, Gray and Nole season.

Alstad, a 6-foot, 160-pound Beaver is working at

READ sse E

hornets

and Tristian Sutton, a 6-foot, 185-pound junior. Also in the backfield rotation will be Jake Smith, a 5-10, 180-pound junior, Andrew Anderson, 5-8, 160-pound junior, and Gage Gray, a 5-10, 200-pound sophomore.

On the outside to catch passes will be Corey Beaver, a 6-3, 165-pound senior, and Michael Scott, a 5-8, 160-pound senior. Clay Herndon is a 6-2, 265-pound senior who is at tight end, along with Cameron White,

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