[Granny Bear]

I'm not going to pretend that I understand it at all when it comes to Middlesboro.

They have a few good athletes on the team as I saw it on Friday night. Some of the play calling was a little suspect but if there are any key injuries or inexperience due to age might be a factor? Unsure.

I figured they were outmatched but how much really showed when Somerset played a lot of reserves and Middlesboro didn't have much success. I wonder if their feeder units are struggling or if just sheer numbers is a problem? A lot of times, smaller schools have so many multi sport athletes, its terribly hard to be great at any of them.

I'd love for someone in know to give some insight.

Well I am NOT in the know. But I have read and heard a lot over the past few years and have developed an opinion. You know what "they" say about opinions, don't you? nicker:
I believe Middlesboro and to an extent, Bell Co have been subjected to questionable leadership and mountain politics. I'm not sure that the athletics or even the student body has been given their proper amount of respect, funding or attention. I can speak of things like mountain politics because I have unfortunately, seen that on a first hand basis.
As a result these two traditionally rich schools have suffered. And, at least in my opinion, it will take a while to get back to where they need to be. Bell appears to have made the turn, Middlesboro is almost there but they will make it if they keep on keeping on.
This is incredibly sad to me.
I may be wrong but this is how I see it.

As far as Somerset is concerned, I would not be surprised if they went to state. They have the talent and work ethic, if the politics were left out for them, too.

This is just my opinion. I won't defend it because I'm not trying to change other's opinions.