[Hoot Gibson]

Congratulations to Boyle County on another state championship. I disagree with those who say that the difference in the game was Boyle County's line. The difference in the game was Cole Lanter. Boyle County's defensive line may have outplayed JC's defensive line, but both played an excellent game. The play on which Lanter ran down McCoart from behind on a long run showed the difference in the game in a nutshell. I don't think that JC could have done a better job covering Lanter, but his presence in the game opened up opportunities for the rest of Boyle's offense and he still managed to break big plays of his own. Gillis also played a great game, as one would expect a great QB with his experience to do.

IMO, the absence of Mason Lawson from JC's offense and from their defense was also a big factor in last night's game. Lawson was rushing for 145 yards per game when he was lost for the season and was averaging 12.5 yards per carry. Lawson was also a key player in JC's defensive secondary. 

Johnson Central's defense feeds on the offense's ability to sustain long drives when necessary and Boyle County's ability to force two JC punts in the first quarter was a huge factor in the game. Against most opponents, JC's offensive line softened defenses pretty quickly and allowed the Golden Eagle backfield to dominate but with Boyle County's speed, especially Lanter and Zeismer, that never happened last night. Having Lawson available last night would have made the game much more competitive but injuries are a part of the game. Sometimes, your team suffers key injuries and sometimes they impact your opponent more. Hopefully, Lawson will return 100% next season to what should be one of the most explosive Johnson Central backfields in school history and the Golden Eagles will get a rematch with Boyle County.

I want to thank interim coach, Steve Trimble, and his staff for doing an outstanding job under very difficult circumstances this season. Coach Matney would be proud of the way that you worked together to allow his players to enjoy another very successful season and learn the lessons that only being part of cohesive teams can teach.