[LeeCoUKFan]

2013 WYMT Pigskin Preview: Lawrence County Bulldogs

LOUISA, Ky. (WYMT) - Despite finishing the regular season just 5-6, the Lawrence County Bulldogs found themselves playing in the second round of the Class 3A state playoffs after an upset win at Morgan County in round one.

"I figured out during that game that no matter what adversity, if we fight hard enough and claw our way to the top, we're going to come out winning," reflects senior lineman Charles Bradshaw.

With more than 2,000 rushing yards returning from last year's backfield, this year's team is aiming for a deeper run.

"We have a lot of weapons, and we have some newcomers coming up; freshmen wide receivers with a lot of speed and good hands," says Derek ferguson, a senior running back. "AJ (Cyrus), he's been working on that arm. He can throw the ball pretty good. "

"AJ (Cyrus) comes back. Ricky (Goble) comes back. We're going to run the same offense, the same defense, and I think that consistency is what's going to help us to become, where we want to get to," adds head coach Joey Cecil.

In order for that rushing attack to be efficient, it all starts up front with the line.

"We got a good line this year, and for them to be able to open up the holes for us," says A.J. Cyrus, who is entering his second season as the Bulldogs' quarterback. "When we're in the backfield and see those wide open holes just open up, it's like the gates of Heaven open up, the front doors open for you. That's a great feeling. To have them play like that every year is just something great."

"Our offensive line. They got experience. They can move people around real easy now," adds senior running back Ricky Goble.

Lawrence County last won a district title in 2009 as a member of Class 4A District 8. This year they're looking to end the drought.

"We want to try and compete for a district championship," says Michael Adams, a senior. "That's every goal, every team in the state wants to compete for that district championship. With a team like Belfry in your district, it's going to be tough, but that's where we want to be."

"They're very mentally tough. They always come to play. We just got to step up and be leaders and always come to play," says senior Cameron Little.

The Bulldogs open their season at home on August 23rd against former district opponent Boyd County.

http://www.wkyt.com/wymt/sports/sportsov...67651.html