[cat86]

Very cold night in Louisville...

2 things made the difference in this game: Turnovers and DeSales depth and numbers.

Prestonsburg was -2 in the takeaway category tonight. That has been rare for this season. Couple of early picks and a fumble to start the second half. With Prestonsburg's defensive philosophy, takeaways are imperative. Just didn't happen tonight.

DeSales just simply had more bodies and quality depth to throw at the Blackcats. I believe they rotated at least 9 different defensive backs throughout the game. They have a few players that play both ways, but have alot that don't, too. In the third quarter, the Blackcats really began to tire, and it was obvious that DeSales was the much fresher team. Prestonsburg really only rotates about 15 players for any meaningful minutes, and most of them play both ways. The big city depth, size, and speed made the difference.

Tonight was the first night that Prestonsburg's quickness on the Offensive and Defensive lines was matched by an opposing team. When you add in the fact that DeSales was much bigger sizewise than the Cats, it makes it tough for your O and D lines.

DeSales is a very, very good team. They have alot of size, alot of quickness, tons of speed, and alot of depth. I hope they win it all. I commented about the fans before from our game 2 years ago with them, and the same held true tonight. I spoke to some fans before and after the game, and they were first rate. Very complimentary, very classy, and again, a pleasure to compete against. It sure would be nice to face them at home one year.

Positives for Prestonsburg: Offensively, when Michael had time to throw, he was great as usual. DeSales brought alot of pressure from different places. They went to a nickel package alot, and blitzed alot of people from different angles, which made it tough to block them all.

Defensively, Prestonsburg had moments of excellent play. The turnovers all led to DeSales points, so if you take those away, the game gets real intersting. There was a stretch in the second quarter where Prestonsburg LB Alex Griffith dominated the field. I think he made 6 consecutive tackles on one DeSales possesion. However, as the game wore on, and as our defensive players got worn down by playing both ways, DeSales size and numbers simply made the difference.

Tought loss for the Blackcats, but everyone needs to step back from the ledge and think about some things. First, NO ONE expected this kind of year from the Cats. The Seniors are to be commended. They simply refused to lose in alot of games this year, and their leadership and grit was contagious. Could anyone in their right mind have expected an undefeated regular season from this little squad of around 30 players? Undefeated District and Regional championships are an amazing feat for this team. The players are all to be praised for their effort, heart, grit, and leadership. And, the coaches need to be applauded too. I can't remember any staff that did a better job of coaching up their players than this staff.

I am a Pburg alum, and played on some pretty dang good teams back in the 80's. However, I am more pleased with this team than any that I ever played on. They were so fun to watch. They played with alot of heart, never quit or layed down, and played some excellent football.

The Seniors will be missed, but they have laid a foundation for excellence that hopefully will be built upon, improved on, and perfected until Prestonsburg FINALLY brings home a state championship.

Great year, guys. I salute you, and pray nothing but good things for you as you go forth from here.