Friday Night Lights come to Whitesburg when the Shelby Valley Wildcats come to town to take on the Letcher County Central Cougars.
The Wildcats roll into the season with a new head coach after finishing 9-4 last season and look to get some revenge after a 36-26 loss last season. The Cougars were 5-6 last season and look to beat Shelby Valley once again.
The Wildcats, under first year head coach Tyler Johnson, will have to replace superstar quarterback Russ Osborne, but Brady Johnson appears to be up for the task after a strong Summer and preseason.
Leading rusher Brett Sturgill is back after gaining 744 yards rushing and 13 touchdowns. Clark Craft returns after picking up 612 yards on the ground while rushing for 10 touchdowns.
Jonah Bartley gives Shelby Valley a capable weapon in the receiving game. Bartley caught 13 passes for 265 yards and 3 touchdowns. Kolton Stamper also returns after catching 16 passes for 219 yards and 3 touchdowns.
The Cougars will look to defend their turf with sophomore quarterback Gunner Holbrook. Last season, Holbrook completed 47-of-83 passes for 768 yards, 10 touchdowns and 6 interceptions.
Quinton Williams is the team’s returning leading rusher with 362 yards and 8 touchdowns on the ground. Brett Smith returns after rushing for 304 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Smith also led the team in receptions last season with 26 for 351 yards and 5 touchdowns. Keaston Branham returns after catching 17 passes for 371 yards and 2 touchdowns.
This should be a barn burner to start the season. It’s not going to be one that you want to miss!
