[Hoot Gibson]

I think that people need to understand that Johnson Central would be ranked No. 1 in 4A, even if the realignment had not taken Highlands, Covington Catholic, Boyle County, and Lexington Catholic out of the class. The Golden Eagles had an outstanding defensive team last season. They have a three year starter at QB (one season as a freshman for Sheldon Clark), several key offensive players, and some very talented young backs as well.

Although I see JC as a big favorite to win another district title, if Ashland manages to upset them, then I think that the Tomcats would have a great shot at the state title. I don't really understand the quibbling over what constitutes a mountain team. If Pulaski is a mountain team, then so are Ashland and other teams in the tri-state area. Anybody who has had to fly into the airport across the Big Sandy river and knows that the mountains (or, if you prefer large hills) in the general area make landing a little bit scary.

I am not saying that South Warren will not win the 4A title, but like EKUAlum05 observed, SW nevr managed to reach the state 3A finals and were eliminated from the playoffs last season by a Central team that also failed to take home the title. Johnson Central was better than South Warren last season and I don't think that they returned any more talent than JC did.

I would not count Highlands and Covington Catholic out in 5A, but Pulaski County has an excellent shot at a title this season. Belfry has a solid chance of repeating but the addition of Boyle and Lexington Catholic to 3A ensures that the Pirates will not have an easy path to the title.