[Hoot Gibson]

Well I guess u look at the film and see how protection broke down and if u no football u have to be able to pass or ft Thomas will stack the box and I think they do tackle lot better than Harlan county so we do need to work on a couple things

You don't have to pass much to beat Highlands. Johnson Central has always been able to run and score on the Bluebirds. The main problem has been defending Highland's passing attack. Special team play has also been a weakness in some years. This JC team will move the ball against any team in the state.

Highlands pounds teams with "balanced" offenses almost every week. They struggle more against physical teams that run right at them. Offensively, JC just needs to be JC. This year's kicking game will be a big boost to the Golden Eagle's chances against Highlands. If they can slow down Highlands' offense, then they will have a shot at a title - if the two teams meet.

Also, Covington Catholic has been hit with a lot of injuries, but if they get healthy before the playoffs, it will take a great effort to beat them. I don't know if when and if Bir will return for the Colonels at QB, but nobody can afford to overlook them if they get him back in the lineup and have time to jell before the opening round.