[Panther Thunder]

I believe, from my homework, that the 1956 game was a direct result of Corbin getting the nod over Pikeville as the 1955 “mythical” State Champion. Without a playoff to determine a winner, most took to the polls or ratings to determine a state champion. In fact, from my understanding, Pikeville decided to claim the 1955 title as well, which, without a playoff, why not?

The 1955 Panthers would go 11-0, outscoring opponents 345-34 on the season. The closest contest of the year was a 13-12 victory against Prestonsburg. Pikeville defeated Harlan 28-7 in the Big Sandy Bowl at Paintsville in a matchup of two unbeatens. Corbin defeated Newport 27-21 in the Recreation Bowl. Pikeville’s booster said “We would like to meet Corbin for the state championship- we’ll play the Redhounds any place they desire.” Morehead’s Chamber of Commerce planned to host the “Strawberry Bowl” on December 3rd to let the two teams battle it out in conjunction with the Kentucky Mountain Strawberry Growers Association (no, really). Pikeville had agreed to the matchup and Corbin was in serious negotiations to take part.

However, the KHSAA did not allow the game to take place (even with an ask for a special allowance) as it was not scheduled prior to October 1st. (Fun fact: Henderson also claimed the title in 1955 with a 10-0 record)

Pikeville in 1956, after the departure of one of the best coaches in PHS History, Clayton Powers, did not have the same caliber team, but went 8-2-1 against a much tougher schedule that included Lafayette, Belfry, Raceland, Prestonsburg, Paintsville, Fleming, Paducah Tilghman (1st game in PT’s new stadium: imagine that trip in 1956), and Corbin.