[EKUAlum05]

I didn't realize that they returned so much size as a team. How do you think a bigger Bourbon squad compares with their speed this year?

I think it will be a great game if Pope comes back 100%. If Bourbon is one dimensional versus Belfry and the Pirates can tee off on the run then the Colonels will be in trouble. Belfry has struggled with mobile QB's and teams who can run out of the spread when the Pirates are honoring the passing game. When Belfry is able to contract their defense and play man on the outside then you are playing into their strength.

Pope hurt Belfry last year while the Pirates utterly made Hopkins a non-factor. This Belfry team is nowhere near that level defensively yet. Offensively Belfry is scary good at times. They have had numerous injuries this year that have thrown their timing off, but this backfield is deep, talented, and experienced. The OL is not to the level of that group last year, but they aren't far off and continue to improve. Belfry has had some bouts of being brain dead on offense, but when they are focused they have looked unbelievable at times. Taylor is very dangerous at WR as well.

If Pope is 100% I think you see a very entertaining game and if Belfry has those mental lapses on offense then I could see Bourbon winning. If Pope doesn't come back then Bourbon better hope Belfry puts the ball on the turf or their young QB filling in finds an accurate passing game.