The eyes of Kentucky Class 1A football are focused deep in the hills of eastern Kentucky.
Pikeville, which finished 11-3 overall and state runners-up one year ago, are primed to make a run at a fifth state championship when the season kick offs Aug. 23 against Bardstown at Hillard Howard Field.
“Early on we are going to hang our hat on the defense,” Pikeville head coach Chris McNamee said. “We have worked hard in the off-season to prepare for this year.”
The Panthers return six defensive standouts, including senior Jon Collum. Senior lineman Matt Compton will anchor the offense line while senior wide receivers Jackson Hensley and Seth Pugh will be threats to score on any play.
Following the opener against Bardstown, the Panthers will face Mingo Central in the 35th annual Pike County Bowl on Aug. 31. Other home games include Raceland (Sept. 13), Phelps (Oct. 11) and Ridgeview, Va. (Nov. 1).
Road games will include Paintsville (Sept. 6), Belfry (Sept. 20), Lawrence County (Sept. 27), Hazard (Oct. 18) and Jenkins (Oct. 25).
Date Opponent Site
Aug. 24 Bardstown Home
Aug. 31 Mingo Central Pike County Bowl
Sept. 6 Paintsville Away
Sept. 13 Raceland Home
Sept. 20 Belfry Away
Sept. 27 Lawrence County Away
Oct. 4 Open
Oct. 11 Phelps Home
Oct. 18 Hazard Away
Oct. 25 Jenkins Away
Nov. 1 Ridgeview, Va. Home