East Ridge High School’s football program said goodbye this past offseason to head coach Brad Allen.
Quentin Morgan takes over the program which returns only four seniors but a large junior class, including all-purpose back C.J. Branham.
“Taking over a program comes with a lot of responsibility,” said the first-year coach. “The players have made it a smooth transition.”
East Ridge is coming off a 5-6 season, having lost in the opening round of the Class 2A playoffs to eventual champion Danville in 2017.
“We would love to get above the .500 mark,” Morgan said. “Our ultimate goal is to host a playoff game at home.”
Senior wide receiver Jacob Robinson says a positive attitude among teammates has been key thus far.
“Everyone out here is giving 100 percent,” he said. “My job as a senior is to pick the other guys up and encourage them.”
Senior lineman Blake Norman is another leader. He says working hard in the offseason has prepared him for his final year.
“A number of guys, including myself, have really put in hard work to get better,” he said.
Senior offensive lineman James Mullins says this group has made great strides this preseason.
“We’ve got some hard hitters on this football,” he said. “The positive attitude has been a strong point.”
Branham will be the “bread and butter” of East Ridge’s offense. He rushed for 819 yards and 12 touchdowns, passed for 119 yards and was on the receiving end several passes while helping lead the defense.
“He’s a solid player,” Morgan said. “He’s one of those guys that can score anytime he gets his hands on the ball.”
East Ridge opens the season Aug. 24 in the Pike County Bowl at Belfry against Phelps. Other road games include Magoffin County (Aug. 31); Leslie County (Sept. 21); Twin Valley, Va. (Oct. 5); and Shelby Valley (Oct. 19).
Home games include Jenkins (Sept. 7; Sheldon Clark (Sept. 14); Betsy Layne (Sept. 28); Prestonsburg (Oct. 12); and Knott Central (Oct. 26).