[orisonspi]

First of all you won't see Belfry play another 2A team for fear of meeting them a few weeks later in the playoffs...any talk of Breathitt, Corbin, etc won't happen.

Also, I don't think Belfry will schedule any 1A team because with the exception of a select few (ie Beechwood, Danville, NewCath) 1A teams in general aren't able to conssitently stay on a top tier level.

The purpose Ironton serves is more than just a solid team.... Ironton is a team that on a year in year out basis Belfry is the underdog coming into the game. No offense to Pulaski SW or JC,,, but on a year in year out basis Belfry would probably be the favorite. The Pirates need a team that is a step beyond them so their weaknesses are exploited.

Secondly, when Belfry advances through the playoffs the majority of the stronger opponents are one of two styles of offenses.... either strictly pass (Breathitt, O-Cath, Etown) or strictly run (Russell, Ft. Campbell) .... thus you wanna play one of these types of teams. Ironton perfectly fit the mold of a power football team and really had us prepared for Russell as well as Pburg's physicality.

My personal opinion is that Bell County would be our best bet,,, its two top tier programs with similar styles, legendary coaches, and a rivalry renewed. Ashland is not perenially a better team than Belfry, but economically speaking it would be an excelelnt decision.

Other possible teams: Charleston Capitol (WV), Danville, Rockcastle County