The high school football season kicks off on Friday night when the Belfry Pirates welcome the Breathitt County Bobcats to the CAM.
Belfry enters the 2024 season after finishing at 8-4, including a 48-14 win over the Bobcats on the road a year ago. Breathitt County comes in after a 6-6 campaign will look to get some revenge on the Pirates’ home turf.
The Pirates’ offense will be led by junior quarterback Chase Varney. Last season, Varney completed 42-of-68 passes for 877 yards, 10 touchdowns and 1 interception.
Belfry will replace its dynamic duo of Caden Woolum and Dre Young, but there is plenty of talent returning in the backfield. Ace Caudill returns after picking up 659 yards and 9 touchdowns rushing a year ago. Jeremiah Austin will also see time in the backfield after racking up 438 yards and 4 rushing touchdowns. JB Woolum picked up 264 yards and 2 rushing touchdowns and is expected to play a huge role. Hunter Hylton will also see plenty of time in the backfield.
The Bobcats come into the season needing to replace Dillon Stacy at quarterback. That will be a huge chore since Stacy completed 107-of-173 passes for 1,567 yards, 15 touchdowns and 3 interceptions last season.
Junior Jayden Gibson was the team’s leading rusher and returns after picking up 838 yards and 12 touchdowns a year ago. Kory Combs also returns to shoulder the load in the backfield after tallying 343 yards and 8 touchdowns last year.
John Hollon should help lead the receiving corps for Breathitt County. The junior had 18 catches for 189 yards and 2 touchdowns last season.
This should be a fantastic early season clash between two powerhouse programs to get the season started. Belfry versus Breathitt County sells itself.
You don’t want to miss this one!
