[Pantherfan59]

My evaluation of Knox:
O-Line: Knox loses 3 starters at this spot: Center, and then the other two played anywhere from left tackle to right tackle. Wherever they were needed. This is the biggest question mark for them. Depth and inexperience could become an issue.

Backfield: Knox has a stable of running backs. Not sure if Mills will play this year, but if he doesn't, Knox will be fine. The QB will be same as last year, and should be much improved with the offense under his belt. Also, they'll have the same full back and power back.

Receivers: this spot gets tricky. 2 starting receivers are gone, leaving holes. I feel as if they will be fine, but no one will know for sure until football camp. (Anyone can do good at 7on7).

Overall prediction for offense: this group will struggle with the pass, but will be able to run. I expect the passing to pick up during district. Hopefully it can be balanced. Knox is always way too predictable.

Defense

DLine: this will be a very strong spot for the panthers. No starters are leaving.

linebackers: this group loses no starters either. all will be seniors next year.

Secondary: yikes. Jermel Carton was an excellent addition to the team as a freshman, and will help a lot, but losing Barger was a major blow to the secondary. Teams can throw on Knox, this is no secret. This will be the only weak spot for the panthers on defense.

Overall prediction for defense: this group will definitely carry the load for the panthers all year. Highly doubt anyone will be able to run the ball on them, because last year Knox had one of the better run defenses in the state. Teams will beat Knox by throwing the ball.


Schedule prediction: 6-4 or 7-3. Losses to Louisville central, southwest Pulaski, Henry clay and Corbin. Pulaski is the game that decides the 6-4 or 7-3.


This post was way too long.


With this schedule, Knox could very well go 6-4 or even 5-5 and compete for a state title. I applaud Scott Russell for scheduling the big boys. teams around here just won't cut it anymore. (Besides maybe hazard if you wanna call that "around here" and of course Harlan county and Corbin).