The Belfry Pirates will kick off their 2023 regular season as they travel to Breathitt County to face a very strong Bobcats squad in what should be one of the top games in the mountains this weekend.
The Pirates went through some growing pains last season after winning the 3A state title the season before. Belfry, playing its traditionally strong schedule looks to be improved this season.
Chase Varney will return at quarterback this season after starting as a freshman in 2022. Last year, Varney passed for 605 yards and 6 touchdowns while also rushing for 111 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Caden Woolum will be returning for his senior season with the Pirates to lead a balanced rushing attack. He led Belfry with 978 yards and 16 touchdowns last season. He also left his mark on defense, tallying 52 tackles and 3 interceptions.
Dre Young also returns to get some carries for the Pirates. Last season, Young 876 yards and 10 touchdowns. Young also had 59 tackles and 3 sacks on defense.
Breathitt County comes into the year after a 9-3 record last season. The Bobcats feature a high flying offense that will test the Pirate pass defense.
Austin Sperry was one of the top wide receivers in the mountains last season. He had 41 catches for 891 yards and 13 touchdown receptions for the Bobcats.
Jayden Gibson also returns after leading Breathitt County with 770 rushing yards and 8 rushing touchdowns.
Defensively, leading tackler Kory Combs returns after recording 109 tackles, including 7 tackles for a loss last season.
This will be a huge game for both teams to get the season off to a big start.
The opening kick is set for 7:30 pm on Friday at Breathitt County.
