The Belfry Pirates (10-2) and Russell Red Devils (9-3) have quite the extensive playoff history. Another chapter to their playoff rivalry will be added when Russell invades Haywood Stadium on Friday night with the opportunity to advance to the semifinals on the line.
The Pirates, coached by the legendary Philip Haywood, are coming off a 21-13 win over Rockcastle County in a second round playoff match up last week.
Belfry will have quarterback Chase Varney running the offense. Varney has completed 71-of-121 passes for 1,192 yards, 12 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. He also has 30 carries for 181 yards and 7 touchdowns.
JJ Austin leads the strong Pirate rushing attack with 1,368 yards and 14 touchdowns on 178 carries. JB Woolum has 73 carries for 801 yards and 16 touchdowns. He also has 24 catches for 369 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Defensively, Hunter Hylton and Keaton Deskins leads Belfry with 109 and 106 tackles respectively.
Russell, coached by TJ Maynard, enters the contest after knocking off Lloyd Memorial, 21-20, in the second round of the playoffs.
The Red Devils have Elijah Hankins at quarterback. This season, Hankins has completed 74-of-135 passes for 1,493 yards, 20 touchdowns and 6 interceptions.
Cayden Pennington is Hankins’ top target with 27 catches for 645 yards and 9 touchdowns.
Defensively, Wyatt Hudson leads the Red Devils with 91 tackles so far this season.
This is a showdown with a lot on the line. Come on out to Haywood Stadium to see an old playoff rivalry renewed!
