[BellCoBobcat]

Delpont and Knuckles have a close rival in Pineville's Al Merrick. Merrick is younger brother of Bell County All-State Kicker, Monte Merrick now of Western Kentucky University. Al and Patrick used to play soccer together and have practiced together. Merrick has been in Delpont's shadow for three years in 1-A District 7. Al Merrick is 5-6 on field goals on season. Merrick was 5/6 touchbacks against Jackson County and 90% on season. All are landing in endzone. His longest kickoff was 69 yards in air with good hang time at Lynn Camp.