[Diogenes]

They talk about them over in our neck of the woods. They can't hardly hide anymore, can they? They are a very good football team. It will be an uphill battle for Johnson Central.

We're ready. We have dealt with more injuries and adversity the last five weeks than I can ever recall in 25 years of watching this team. South Warren may be a better team. If so, we shake hands and say good job. Somebody has to be state runners-up. But i guarantee you: this team will NOT lay down just because you got a pretty record with lots of points. This coach almost beat the Pat Towles Highlands team. We've seen good and great. We've come back from the dead against Scott. Central is humble, but hungry. And our fans are rabid, and we WILL be there to raise our voices as one. We're not coming to take selfies and souvenirs. We're coming to hit people in the mouth. I'm sure South Warren says the same. I'd be disappointed otherwise. But never underestimate what Coach Matney can do to motivate. His speeches after games, you can hear a pin drop. Tears are in eyes. This team is so thankful for this chance, and they've dreamed of it since they knew how to dream. This little poor mountain county has waited 40 plus years for this week. I can promise, they won't waste a second. All respect to South Warren, their coach and his pedigree. But...I'm so pumped up I can't sleep, even after a 3 hour drive each way. And I know I'm not alone. We all grew up black and gold. Pride and respect.