[Blackcat 4 Life]

To me, this should be one of the best, if not the best game in the mountains and even the state. Not only are both teams 5-0, but both have young and up and coming coaches who both played at Prestonsburg. On top of that, you have three or four kids who transferred from Prestonsburg to Betsy Layne this year, who play significant roles. I might add, one of the players messages Hager on a regular basis, with a countdown clock set to this Friday night. This has been going on since before the season started and as childish as it is, it only adds fuel to the fire. Last but not least, you have two fanbases who are hungry, and want nothing more than to beat their cross county rivals.

When I look at this game, I feel like the team who can be the most disciplined, will leave Josh Francis Field with a win. As of late, Prestonsburg has cleaned up a lot of early season miscues and Hager has these boys confident and prepared. The offense is starting to find it's identity, and the ability to throw the ball has brought on a different dynamic. Prestonsburg has more playmakers than Betsy Layne, and if they are going to win this game, they have to utilize all three in different ways. Harris, Elliott, and Patton have been a nightmare to opposing defenses, and I don't look for that to change against the Bobcats. They all bring a little something to the table and if Holbrook continues to improve, watch out! Betsy Layne may very well have the advantage up front, but Betsy Layne's offense has been predictable over the first five games. I don't think Jarrell has showed his hand, because with their schedule, he hasn't had to. If Prestonsburg can keep McCutcheon in check, I like their chances, but if they allow him to have a big game like he's capable of having, they could be in trouble. Parsons is a solid duel threat Quarterback who can hurt you in multiple ways. His arm worries me a little more than his legs this game, due to Blackcats inability to consistently defend the pass. They have shown improvements, but it's still a concern. I think both defense's have been impressive early on and they both seem to fly to the ball and have a bend but don't break mentality. Betsy Layne has shown they can be undisciplined and commit some silly penalties, which could really hurt them this game if they aren't cleaned up. It's going to be an emotional game, so I expect a few penalties on both sides. Hopefully, the officiating crew gets control of the game early, and we all get to enjoy a good clean football game. This game could go either way, but I look for Prestonsburg's discipline to win out in the end. Hail Blackcats!

Prestonsburg - 34
Betsy Layne -28