[bucslover68]

Since I started the thread, let me weigh in. Belfry is hands down the better program if you look strictly at head to head results. A twelve game winning streak has them squarely in the lead in that category. The overall argument, however, is a lot closer and if you are scoring it like a boxing match based on percentages, lets say, I would score it 51-49. Taking off my red-colored glasses I can make an argument for both programs to be on the side that is 51 pct.
Pikeville claims the title 51-49 based on...The magical three year run and 4/5 state championship appearances. Their 6 championship game appearances since 72 are not bad at all.
HP makes a great point on the "mountain impact" of the PHS dynasty during that time.
Other factors...Hillard Howard...Overall numbers would be close to Haywood if he had stayed at PHS.
Factors that prevent PHS from winning this argument greater than 51-49 IMO....Their highs have been very high, but their lows have been very low..Pikeville shouldn't lose to the likes of South Floyd or Fleming-Neon and barely escape Allen Central...They haven't been back to state since 1991... They have had several opportunities, but IMO, only the 94, 99' and 00 teams were real contenders...Pikeville has a good fan base, but it is not great...It is very fickle, as are some Belfry fans. PHS fans have many years supported the program very well during the high years and very lukewarm during the low years.

Belfry wins the the argument based on...9 championship game appearances and 2 championships since 1979...Haywood...no further explanation necessary...the ability to compete with some of the state's best programs...The most noticeable example would be the 5 game history with Highlands...2-3 all-time...unfortunately no games since 1990 but winners of 2 out the the last 3 and the only loss an OT loss, 21-14 on the road in the state semis in 89...the lows have not been near as low..Belfry was average at best during the 90s, but they have never had many bad losses like Pikeville and the run they have had in the recent ten year stretch has only been matched by Lynch East Main....The fan base is big and supports unconditionally and loves to travel...They do have a segment that is fickle and impatient, but most good programs do...HP makes a good point about PHS breaking the Golden Triangle dominance. Belfry initiated that in 1979 with a 14-8 win at Highlands that proved a mountain 3A team could complete and beat the best KY public school program of all-time.
In conclusion, for myself, it is a relative toss-up...I think PHS fans weigh way too heavy on a short stretch of time when PHS was dominant. That takes away nothing from what they accomplished during that time, but a certain amount of weight has to be given to a program as a whole...It will be much better for local football fans and for statewide perception if PHS can get back to state and consistently start competing with/ beating Belfry.