[jetpilot]

Finally got to go watch a practice. Looked like 40 varsity and 22-25 JH. Both squads pass the eye test. Was told some players weren't there for various reasons.

Pikeville will be ok. They might have more weapons than they have had in awhile. Skill players are super talented and back 7 are as well. Several who can house it. Like Belichick has said it's all about if they can get good line play.

Jr High looked great. Lots of speed and offense is already fast and crisp. Amazing practice and awesome they have 25 players after last year's huge 8th grade class.

Pikeville isn't going away. I hate what ifs but if they had Ferguson boys and Muncy they would dominate Class A again. If those holes can be filled look out.

[Big Five-0-]

If not mistaken there was 22 8th graders on that squad last season, so it looks like three more have been added. Not that three is that much in number but could be three quality players that can be developed into the varsity. Pikeville is going to have some stud skill players for sure. Just hope that line can come along as needed.

---

If not mistaken there was 22 8th graders on that squad last season, so it looks like three more have been added. Not that three is that much in number but could be three quality players that can be developed into the varsity. Pikeville is going to have some stud skill players for sure. Just hope that line can come along as needed.

Clarification: That's 7th and 8th graders, not just freshmen. Still not bad for that number to move up.

[ArmChairHC]

What’s the Pikeville line looking like?

[Belichick]

What’s the Pikeville line looking like?

Not seen any action to give an informed opinion. No big man challenges with their 7on7s and of course no scrimmages yet.  They have a few returning players with starting or playing experience and rumor of a possible transfer. Few freshmen will be good for them down the line but I can see scenarios where some could be forced into some action this season. Pikeville won’t be going away this season despite the players who departed. I hate to use the phrase “may surprise some people” but a lot of people are down on their chances this season. I wouldn’t bury them yet. I still don’t think we know after their scrimmages but Week 1 will let you know a lot about Pikeville.  They play CAL in Louisville.

I like the young group they have coming up.  Grades 7-9 are pretty solid. Looks like another run coming for them.

[ArmChairHC]

Pikeville may have lost a good bit, but they have been VERY good in the feeder program the last 3-4 years. The incoming Frosh won a state title in 8th and either won it in when in 7th or came close I can’t remember. So they will be poised to go on a run soon. This year I can see them playing the role of Raceland last year. Everyone expects a rebuild but in all honesty…it’s more of a reload than many think.

[RAM-A-DEVIL]

Don’t you mean everybody else’s feeder programs.

[Micro-Brew]

Pot meet kettle

[jetpilot]

Pikeville may have lost a good bit, but they have been VERY good in the feeder program the last 3-4 years. The incoming Frosh won a state title in 8th and either won it in when in 7th or came close I can’t remember. So they will be poised to go on a run soon. This year I can see them playing the role of Raceland last year. Everyone expects a rebuild but in all honesty…it’s more of a reload than many think.

Pretty sure current 8th won 6th grade championship in '23. Bunch of  excellent classes going through.

[jetpilot]

Don’t you mean everybody else’s feeder programs.

That's funny. Pikeville's little league program is second to none.

[RAM-A-DEVIL]

I had to take a shot. Things are getting boring.

[bac2369]

I had to take a shot. Things are getting boring.

You should have posted about them Pikeville Short Buses Driving by Ram Stadium during football practice hours. I know you told me not to tell but I just can’t help it.

[jetpilot]

Actually the short buses had to be diverted to Hazard since the Bulldogs cracked the top 5 and Pikeville fell out of the top 10 in the off season

[bac2369]

Actually the short buses had to be diverted to Hazard since the Bulldogs cracked the top 5 and Pikeville fell out of the top 10 in the off season

Heck I thought those said Pineville…. Gonna have to get some glasses. But Pikeville sure hasn’t dropped off the top 10. Sandbagging a bit. They not even outta the top 5.

[VoR_58]

Eager to watch this Pikeville team and if this young OL/DL can step up quick and be men out there.

[jetpilot]

Eager to watch this Pikeville team and if this young OL/DL can step up quick and be men out there.

Same!

[Patriot1]

The key to Pikeville will be at the line of scrimmage which it is in most cases and with their schedule they may get embarrassed some  from CAL Johnson Central and Belfry because of those teams definitely have strong lines then you add the biggest strongest and fastest line in all of Kentucky it’s gong to be a test now Jet can you name the last one?

[ArmChairHC]

I think the tale of the tape is if Pikeville can remain healthy through the regular season schedule of death. Toughest schedule in 1A imo. This Pikeville team will look different than the last 4 maybe even 5 teams (hell maybe more). While Justice, Anderson, and a few others are by no means small, nor are they by any stretch slow, I don’t see a Anthony, Pugh, Birchfield, Lockhart, or Wright (even though the younger Wright will likely be in that category before his HS days are done) on the roster this year. QB play will be a lot different, more of an athelete back there than his last two predecessors. You don’t have the speed and power combo you had with Pugh, Birchfield, or Anthony. While Hager is good, I don’t think he is a Lockhart. This team to me reminds me of Pughs sophomore class. Lots of young talent that will without question, but with this schedule, do they have the depth to weather injuries on top of a possible developmental learning curve that comes with young players. Especially upfront. Raceland saw that when they had Highlands and LCA on the schedule. There’s plenty of talent, but how much that talent will be ready remains to be seen.

---

I think the tale of the tape is if Pikeville can remain healthy through the regular season schedule of death. Toughest schedule in 1A imo. This Pikeville team will look different than the last 4 maybe even 5 teams (hell maybe more). While Justice, Anderson, and a few others are by no means small, nor are they by any stretch slow, I don’t see a Anthony, Pugh, Birchfield, Lockhart, or Wright (even though the younger Wright will likely be in that category before his HS days are done) on the roster this year. QB play will be a lot different, more of an athelete back there than his last two predecessors. You don’t have the speed and power combo you had with Pugh, Birchfield, or Anthony. While Hager is good, I don’t think he is a Lockhart. This team to me reminds me of Pughs sophomore class. Lots of young talent that will without question, but with this schedule, do they have the depth to weather injuries on top of a possible developmental learning curve that comes with young players. Especially upfront. Raceland saw that when they had Highlands and LCA on the schedule. There’s plenty of talent, but how much that talent will be ready remains to be seen.

---

I think the tale of the tape is if Pikeville can remain healthy through the regular season schedule of death. Toughest schedule in 1A imo. This Pikeville team will look different than the last 4 maybe even 5 teams (hell maybe more). While Justice, Anderson, and a few others are by no means small, nor are they by any stretch slow, I don’t see a Anthony, Pugh, Birchfield, Lockhart, or Wright (even though the younger Wright will likely be in that category before his HS days are done) on the roster this year. QB play will be a lot different, more of an athelete back there than his last two predecessors. You don’t have the speed and power combo you had with Pugh, Birchfield, or Anthony. While Hager is good, I don’t think he is a Lockhart. This team to me reminds me of Pughs sophomore class. Lots of young talent that will without question, but with this schedule, do they have the depth to weather injuries on top of a possible developmental learning curve that comes with young players. Especially upfront. Raceland saw that when they had Highlands and LCA on the schedule. There’s plenty of talent, but how much that talent will be ready remains to be seen.

[jetpilot]

Don't know why you think Hager isn't Lockhart but I think you will be proven wrong and possibly very wrong.

[jetpilot]

The key to Pikeville will be at the line of scrimmage which it is in most cases and with their schedule they may get embarrassed some  from CAL Johnson Central and Belfry because of those teams definitely have strong lines then you add the biggest strongest and fastest line in all of Kentucky it’s gong to be a test now Jet can you name the last one?

IDK P1 but reading the Class A threads it looks like a tie between Raceland and Hazard 

[jetpilot]

Don't know why you think Hager isn't Lockhart but I think you will be proven wrong and possibly very wrong.

Maybe you meant the Hensleys.

[Patriot1]

I think the tale of the tape is if Pikeville can remain healthy through the regular season schedule of death. Toughest schedule in 1A imo. This Pikeville team will look different than the last 4 maybe even 5 teams (hell maybe more). While Justice, Anderson, and a few others are by no means small, nor are they by any stretch slow, I don’t see a Anthony, Pugh, Birchfield, Lockhart, or Wright (even though the younger Wright will likely be in that category before his HS days are done) on the roster this year. QB play will be a lot different, more of an athelete back there than his last two predecessors. You don’t have the speed and power combo you had with Pugh, Birchfield, or Anthony. While Hager is good, I don’t think he is a Lockhart. This team to me reminds me of Pughs sophomore class. Lots of young talent that will without question, but with this schedule, do they have the depth to weather injuries on top of a possible developmental learning curve that comes with young players. Especially upfront. Raceland saw that when they had Highlands and LCA on the schedule. There’s plenty of talent, but how much that talent will be ready remains to be seen.

---

I think the tale of the tape is if Pikeville can remain healthy through the regular season schedule of death. Toughest schedule in 1A imo. This Pikeville team will look different than the last 4 maybe even 5 teams (hell maybe more). While Justice, Anderson, and a few others are by no means small, nor are they by any stretch slow, I don’t see a Anthony, Pugh, Birchfield, Lockhart, or Wright (even though the younger Wright will likely be in that category before his HS days are done) on the roster this year. QB play will be a lot different, more of an athelete back there than his last two predecessors. You don’t have the speed and power combo you had with Pugh, Birchfield, or Anthony. While Hager is good, I don’t think he is a Lockhart. This team to me reminds me of Pughs sophomore class. Lots of young talent that will without question, but with this schedule, do they have the depth to weather injuries on top of a possible developmental learning curve that comes with young players. Especially upfront. Raceland saw that when they had Highlands and LCA on the schedule. There’s plenty of talent, but how much that talent will be ready remains to be seen.

---

I think the tale of the tape is if Pikeville can remain healthy through the regular season schedule of death. Toughest schedule in 1A imo. This Pikeville team will look different than the last 4 maybe even 5 teams (hell maybe more). While Justice, Anderson, and a few others are by no means small, nor are they by any stretch slow, I don’t see a Anthony, Pugh, Birchfield, Lockhart, or Wright (even though the younger Wright will likely be in that category before his HS days are done) on the roster this year. QB play will be a lot different, more of an athelete back there than his last two predecessors. You don’t have the speed and power combo you had with Pugh, Birchfield, or Anthony. While Hager is good, I don’t think he is a Lockhart. This team to me reminds me of Pughs sophomore class. Lots of young talent that will without question, but with this schedule, do they have the depth to weather injuries on top of a possible developmental learning curve that comes with young players. Especially upfront. Raceland saw that when they had Highlands and LCA on the schedule. There’s plenty of talent, but how much that talent will be ready remains to be seen.

I don’t think speed is going to be the problem I think they will have team speed as good as anyone or better but what worries me is up front with all the young players and if they can keep the quarterback clean they will be trouble for anyone in 1A but something we have to wait and see

[bac2369]

The key to Pikeville will be at the line of scrimmage which it is in most cases and with their schedule they may get embarrassed some  from CAL Johnson Central and Belfry because of those teams definitely have strong lines then you add the biggest strongest and fastest line in all of Kentucky it’s gong to be a test now Jet can you name the last one?

IDK P1 but reading the Class A threads it looks like a tie between Raceland and Hazard  :)

I sure hope you’re right… but I’ve been waiting for two teams from the same district to play each other for the title. I think we could have had that a few years back but some jack weasel wanted to make the the first two rounds playing teams from the same district. Hopefully that never comes back to play ever.

[Big Five-0-]

Pikeville, as we know starts the season off with a bang going up against a strong 3-a state champion Cal team. This game looks to be a typical "David against Goliath "and of course it will be at Cal. As opposing as Cal will be, we also know that the Panthers wont just lay down to any football team. Just hope there's no injuries after that game or to any team this early in the season. Cal lost some good players, from graduation, but will still be strong at almost every position. 
Qb1 will narrow down to two different prospects in the Burke kid and the Phieipher ? kid. They've got a good staple of running backs and a strong line once again. On        D, linebackers look strong as well as the secondary. Imo, even if they had heavier losses to graduation it would still be a huge challenge to Pikeville  due to the long travel time and going up against a traditional  3-A power at their place. Just hope the Panthers play like its a championship game, and NO injuries.

[bac2369]

Pikeville, as we know starts the season off with a bang going up against a strong 3-a state champion Cal team. This game looks to be a typical "David against Goliath "and of course it will be at Cal. As opposing as Cal will be, we also know that the Panthers wont just lay down to any football team. Just hope there's no injuries after that game or to any team this early in the season. Cal lost some good players, from graduation, but will still be strong at almost every position. 
Qb1 will narrow down to two different prospects in the Burke kid and the Phieipher ? kid. They've got a good staple of running backs and a strong line once again. On        D, linebackers look strong as well as the secondary. Imo, even if they had heavier losses to graduation it would still be a huge challenge to Pikeville  due to the long travel time and going up against a traditional  3-A power at their place. Just hope the Panthers play like its a championship game, and NO injuries.

Very tough opening game and CAL has several kids with D-1 offers. The 3rd kid in that quarterback battle is the kid who supposedly transferred to Paris.

[bac2369]

I see it’s midnight practice time…

[bac2369]

Midnight Practice at Pikeville.

[ArmChairHC]

Correction…Lockhart was special but he was not who I was trying to think of. It was the Hensley kid.

[Big Five-0-]

Pikeville, as we know starts the season off with a bang going up against a strong 3-a state champion Cal team. This game looks to be a typical "David against Goliath "and of course it will be at Cal. As opposing as Cal will be, we also know that the Panthers wont just lay down to any football team. Just hope there's no injuries after that game or to any team this early in the season. Cal lost some good players, from graduation, but will still be strong at almost every position. 
Qb1 will narrow down to two different prospects in the Burke kid and the Phieipher ? kid. They've got a good staple of running backs and a strong line once again. On        D, linebackers look strong as well as the secondary. Imo, even if they had heavier losses to graduation it would still be a huge challenge to Pikeville  due to the long travel time and going up against a traditional  3-A power at their place. Just hope the Panthers play like its a championship game, and NO injuries.

Very tough opening game and CAL has several kids with D-1 offers. The 3rd kid in that quarterback battle is the kid who supposedly transferred to Paris.

Thats right. Paris, according to what i hear is getting a pretty good Qb. I think last season's Cal team had anywhere from 5 - 7 D-1 commits.

[Belichick]

Jackson Hensley was one of if not the best WR Pikeville has ever had. His younger brother and Lockhart also very good in recent years but they were not Jackson. If Hager plays in the realm of those guys, he should have a great season. He passes the eye test and has some speed. Was breaking out last season before his injury. He looks bigger and faster this year for sure. 4.4s aren’t common. Panthers have good team speed. Several players that can cause problems for the other team. I am starting to like their chances a little more. There is a better vibe around that program than last season. First half of schedule will be a very hard way to grow up but if they don’t get the injury bug of last year and can stomach a few early losses, Pikeville will be a contender in 1A in the playoffs.

[ArmChairHC]

Doesn’t matter what Raceland, Pikeville, and Hazard have, JP. Doesn’t matter what Cville and KCD have Paris is building a machine again all of a sudden after everyone left and came back and left again, now more people have come back or come in.