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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 Jm
Geoff
Matt
Jackson
James
Will 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.

I do not totally agree with not having to pass much to beat HHS. If JC gets down 14-17 points they are not going to get back in the game with long time consuming scoring drives. HHS offense is very very good this year and will be incredible come playoff time. Teams are not going to be able to keep points off the board. Time consuming drives to keep their O off the field is what you want, but if you are down you better be able to pass to try to get back in the game.
HHS will give up yardage to JC but will make them earn it in long drives, they will not give up 60-70 yard runs. JH played against HHS some what like JC and HHS had ball 7 times, 5 TD's and two unforced turnovers inside the ten. That is very efficient. If JC does not score on just about every possession, it will be tough for them to get back with no passing in 4th quarter.