[Do-double-gg]

Without Milton Wright CAL is a totally different team.

True but any team would be a different team without their star player that they built their play calling and decision making around, but if you think CAL can't match up and then some at a few spots with Belfry you might be kidding yourself. In my opinion CAL and Mayfield both would be competitive with 3A most years but CAL dominated 2A last season. They lose the Wright kid who was a super star but they may have better balance this year without him. From what I'm hearing they return a lot everywhere so common sense would make one think they will be improved. I believe 3A runs through you guys and CAL. I think it will be a very interesting match up. After seeing CAL play I'm thinking CAL has the quickest and most athletic and talented defense the Pirates will see in 2019 other then the Ohio team that I know nothing about.

[OutlawJoseyWales]

True but any team would be a different team without their star player that they built their play calling and decision making around, but if you think CAL can't match up and then some at a few spots with Belfry you might be kidding yourself. In my opinion CAL and Mayfield both would be competitive with 3A most years but CAL dominated 2A last season. They lose the Wright kid who was a super star but they may have better balance this year without him. From what I'm hearing they return a lot everywhere so common sense would make one think they will be improved. I believe 3A runs through you guys and CAL. I think it will be a very interesting match up. After seeing CAL play I'm thinking CAL has the quickest and most athletic and talented defense the Pirates will see in 2019 other then the Ohio team that I know nothing about.

No doubt Cal will be a heavy favorite to make it to Kroger Field from the west. It will be much more interesting on the eastern side of the state IMO. Ashland appears to have a pretty good squad coming into the season, Bell Co should be improved. Greenup, Russell, Lawrence Co all have hopes of improving come August. I think Belfry will be the favorite...….but....questions remain in a few areas. QB, FB,LB and CB will be fluid areas for the Pirates. Depth will also be a potential issue. Belfry has been plagued with unfortunate injuries each of the past three years. Got to hope that tend ceases to exist

[bucslover68]

Any updates?...I think it is looking more and more like a 9 game schedule for the Pirates.

[cuppett777]

Any updates?...I think it is looking more and more like a 9 game schedule for the Pirates.

I was going ask you that Buc- you have more inside than probally anyone,lol

[bucslover68]

I was going ask you that Buc- you have more inside than probally anyone,lol

No real news from my sources other than I did hear they are optimistic about getting a 10th game, but nothing specific.

[PaytoPlay]

Who is going to play Quarterback? Anyone want to take a shot at projecting the starters on both sides? (Would be appreciated)

[OutlawJoseyWales]

Who is going to play Quarterback? Anyone want to take a shot at projecting the starters on both sides? (Would be appreciated)

My guess would be Brett Coleman will take over he full time reins at the QB spot.

[jetpilot]

My guess would be Brett Coleman will take over he full time reins at the QB spot.

I think that guy will surprise some people.

[Patriot1]

I also think Coleman will be the quarterback, with Hensley back-and Bentley,Dixon that’s what makes the option football work. The question is does he let Coleman play defensively and everyone knows Haywood doesn’t like to play his quarterback both ways. Coleman was excellent at that safety spot last year and it’s hard not seeing him back there but just a thought.

[OutlawJoseyWales]

I also think Coleman will be the quarterback, with Hensley back-and Bentley,Dixon that’s what makes the option football work. The question is does he let Coleman play defensively and everyone knows Haywood doesn’t like to play his quarterback both ways. Coleman was excellent at that safety spot last year and it’s hard not seeing him back there but just a thought.

Look for Coleman to play both ways

[#55PirateFan]

This may be way off but I'll give it a shot.

Offense:
QB Brett Coleman
RB Ben Bentley
RB Issac Dixon
FB Peyton Hensley/Joe Chafin
TE Ethan Christensen
WR Isiah Birchfield
T Shawn Cochran
G Logan McCoy
C Ethan Wolford
G Cameron Hensley
T Spencer Hensley

Really strong backfield next year, one of the best in the state regardless of class, IMO. Belfry's "Achilles Heel " could quite possibly be the offensive line. For the first time in a few years the Pirate O-Line is a question mark. Only returning starter is Wolford who has played every game at Center the last two years. Cochran has a ton of experience. After that, I just dont know. And they better stay healthy! People can say what they want, I dont give a damn what studs you have in the backfield, Barry Sanders not included, if they dont have blockers then it doesnt matter. This year will depend on the offensive line.

[#55PirateFan]

Defense:
DT Mason Washington
NT Jake Baisden
DT Dylan Goff
DE Grayson Cook
DE Brad Lowe
LB Seth Mounts
LB Joe Chafin (If he plays)
DB Issac Dixon
DB Brett Coleman
DB Isiah Birchfield
DB Ben Bentley

Our secondary will be solid. I think our front 5 will be good as well. As long as they stay healthy. At LB, Mounts has proven to be a player when he is on the field. Just cant stay healthy. But when he is, potential All Stater. Same with Cook at the DE, the kid is one of the best but injuries has really hurt him over the years. But, I look for both to make a big impact their Senior year. Joe Chafin may fill the other LB spot. Chafin had a string of injuries that forced him out of football for a couple of years but they come no tougher. If he plays, he will be a playmaker. Look for Jacoby Thornsbury to rotate in on the D-Line, and maybe even start. Also, from what I'm hearing, Ethan Wolford will play short yardage and goalline defense with Thornsbury and Baisden. That middle will be stout!

Well that's my two cents. I may be off a spot or two but I think that's what your 2019 Pirate Lineup will kinda look like when they take the field.

[OutlawJoseyWales]

This may be way off but I'll give it a shot.

Offense:
QB Brett Coleman
RB Ben Bentley
RB Issac Dixon
FB Peyton Hensley/Joe Chafin
TE Ethan Christensen
WR Isiah Birchfield
T Shawn Cochran
G Logan McCoy
C Ethan Wolford
G Cameron Hensley
T Spencer Hensley

Really strong backfield next year, one of the best in the state regardless of class, IMO. Belfry's "Achilles Heel " could quite possibly be the offensive line. For the first time in a few years the Pirate O-Line is a question mark. Only returning starter is Wolford who has played every game at Center the last two years. Cochran has a ton of experience. After that, I just dont know. And they better stay healthy! People can say what they want, I dont give a damn what studs you have in the backfield, Barry Sanders not included, if they dont have blockers then it doesnt matter. This year will depend on the offensive line.

I think you’re spot on my friend. IMO....Belfry’s backfield will be as lethal as we’ve seen .....however....this team’s success or lack thereof will be determined up front. It’s really important for Belfry to find that elusive 10th game. The line will need plenty of reps to develop the needed cohesiveness to make a deep, deep run. I do think Logan McCoy and Cameron Hensley will be fine. They’re just gonna need in game experience. I wouldn’t bet against the Belfry staff when it comes to lineman’s development. IMO....Belfry has some of the very best line coaches in the state. Here’s hoping help his team will be blessed with good health. Depth will be an issue..... but the pieces are there to be a Kroger Field front runner.

[OutlawJoseyWales]

Defense:
DT Mason Washington
NT Jake Baisden
DT Dylan Goff
DE Grayson Cook
DE Brad Lowe
LB Seth Mounts
LB Joe Chafin (If he plays)
DB Issac Dixon
DB Brett Coleman
DB Isiah Birchfield
DB Ben Bentley

Our secondary will be solid. I think our front 5 will be good as well. As long as they stay healthy. At LB, Mounts has proven to be a player when he is on the field. Just cant stay healthy. But when he is, potential All Stater. Same with Cook at the DE, the kid is one of the best but injuries has really hurt him over the years. But, I look for both to make a big impact their Senior year. Joe Chafin may fill the other LB spot. Chafin had a string of injuries that forced him out of football for a couple of years but they come no tougher. If he plays, he will be a playmaker. Look for Jacoby Thornsbury to rotate in on the D-Line, and maybe even start. Also, from what I'm hearing, Ethan Wolford will play short yardage and goalline defense with Thornsbury and Baisden. That middle will be stout!

Well that's my two cents. I may be off a spot or two but I think that's what your 2019 Pirate Lineup will kinda look like when they take the field.

If Chafin can stay healthy ....it would be a huge plus for his squad. I wonder if Birchfield is strong enough to handle the OLB spot?? What are your thoughts on that?? Definitely has the instinct for it. If so.....I could see Peyton Hensley stepping into the defensive backfield and providing some much needed help.

[#55PirateFan]

If Chafin can stay healthy ....it would be a huge plus for his squad. I wonder if Birchfield is strong enough to handle the OLB spot?? What are your thoughts on that?? Definitely has the instinct for it. If so.....I could see Peyton Hensley stepping into the defensive backfield and providing some much needed help.

I can't see Birchfield at OLB. Tough enough, absolutely, but his size would kill him there. The LB spot opposite of Mounts was my real question mark. I put Chafin there because I just couldn't figure out anyone else. I dont think Hensley can handle both ways either, injury risk.

[#55PirateFan]

We will be dangerous if we can stay healthy. We can't afford to lose players like Hensley, Cook, and Mounts like we have in the past and make a serious run at state, we just dont have the backups like we did before to cover down for them until they got healthy.

[Belfry fan 75]

I definitely think Logan Mccoy will step in just fine. Strong kid and moves pretty good

[Warriorhawk17]

Dove and blankenship

[Patriot1]

We will be dangerous if we can stay healthy. We can't afford to lose players like Hensley, Cook, and Mounts like we have in the past and make a serious run at state, we just dont have the backups like we did before to cover down for them until they got healthy.

Nothing about your quote just wanted to congratulate your son on his offer but in my opinion they will be a lot of them before this season is over.

[#55PirateFan]

Nothing about your quote just wanted to congratulate your son on his offer but in my opinion they will be a lot of them before this season is over.

Thank you my friend, we're very proud of him.

[WhomTheBellTolls]

if belfry doesn’t have a10 game schedule will that hurt them come rankings at the end?

[FoSho]

True but any team would be a different team without their star player that they built their play calling and decision making around, but if you think CAL can't match up and then some at a few spots with Belfry you might be kidding yourself. In my opinion CAL and Mayfield both would be competitive with 3A most years but CAL dominated 2A last season. They lose the Wright kid who was a super star but they may have better balance this year without him. From what I'm hearing they return a lot everywhere so common sense would make one think they will be improved. I believe 3A runs through you guys and CAL. I think it will be a very interesting match up. After seeing CAL play I'm thinking CAL has the quickest and most athletic and talented defense the Pirates will see in 2019 other then the Ohio team that I know nothing about.

Wright was their speed on the outside. With him gone that changes quite a bit. They will be much more one deminsional imo and won't have the "take it to the house" threat. They will ground and pound.

I'll let you know what I think of CAL after we play them @ home in week 5.

[Briar jumper bd]

FYI....SW Pulaski is a decent team but they lost a lot with graduation and will be no match for Belfry (nor would they have been last season). More importantly they lost HC Larry French who they will not be able replace. They will take a step back imo.

Belfry by 35.

Belfry is the favorite but I strongly disagree with SW is taking a step back. Foley is doing an outstanding job in off season preparation. SW weight program has been horrendous. Numbers are going to be around 80 kids. He’s visiting each feeder school and investing time into youth programs. I know Larry and even coached for him the first year at SW and you can’t beat him but for whatever reason that fire did not seem to be there anymore. Larry has forgot more about coaching than I will know but coach Foley from what I’ve seem is the right guy to replace him and I believe is going to shock many people who do not know him. You will not out work him! Belfry is the considerable favorite and my youngest son is going to get a taste of Belfry football and it will be good for him. No one is more physical every down than Belfry from what I’ve seen and I love and respect it. I believe how SW competes will be essential to the rest of their season. I love what’s going on at SW and I respect the heck outa Belfry football and their fans. You’re only as good as the competition you play and Belfry is a dang good competitor.

[#55PirateFan]

Dang, looks like Belfry is not going to be getting that all important 10th game! This is really going to hurt the Pirates, IMO.

[OutlawJoseyWales]

Belfry is the favorite but I strongly disagree with SW is taking a step back. Foley is doing an outstanding job in off season preparation. SW weight program has been horrendous. Numbers are going to be around 80 kids. He’s visiting each feeder school and investing time into youth programs. I know Larry and even coached for him the first year at SW and you can’t beat him but for whatever reason that fire did not seem to be there anymore. Larry has forgot more about coaching than I will know but coach Foley from what I’ve seem is the right guy to replace him and I believe is going to shock many people who do not know him. You will not out work him! Belfry is the considerable favorite and my youngest son is going to get a taste of Belfry football and it will be good for him. No one is more physical every down than Belfry from what I’ve seen and I love and respect it. I believe how SW competes will be essential to the rest of their season. I love what’s going on at SW and I respect the heck outa Belfry football and their fans. You’re only as good as the competition you play and Belfry is a dang good competitor.

Belfry is just one of several quality teams lining up to fight for the 3A title. Anyone who thinks otherwise is simply uninformed. Cal, DeSales, Ashland and others are not simply gonna lie down for The Pirates. Fortunately.....the Belfry kids know that. They understand the hard work, sacrifice and dedication it’s gonna take to make it to Kroger Field. Should be exciting.

[Patriot1]

Dang, looks like Belfry is not going to be getting that all important 10th game! This is really going to hurt the Pirates, IMO.

That’s ashame they can’t get that 10th game especially for the seniors. You are right it might hurt with the new playoff system with the seeding format but I am not sure because I have no idea how it’s going to work.

[#55PirateFan]

That’s ashame they can’t get that 10th game especially for the seniors. You are right it might hurt with the new playoff system with the seeding format but I am not sure because I have no idea how it’s going to work.

Nobody knows exactly how it's going to work my friend. Not even sure if KHSAA knows! Lol

[OutlawJoseyWales]

Dang, looks like Belfry is not going to be getting that all important 10th game! This is really going to hurt the Pirates, IMO.

Yep....from what I was told the other day, that 10th game isn’t gonna happen. Belfry has reached out to some of the biggest and formidable programs out there in Kentucky and West Virginia and, unfortunately, no takers.

[bucslover68]

Yep....from what I was told the other day, that 10th game isn’t gonna happen. Belfry has reached out to some of the biggest and formidable programs out there in Kentucky and West Virginia and, unfortunately, no takers.

Could be a blessing in disguise. Would we prefer to play a 10th game? Sure. But a week to practice, possibly rest some nicks and bruises, and fine tune some things is not a bad thing IMO. I think it is better than just playing anyone to fill out the schedule.

[jetpilot]

Hopefully with this new ratings system it won't cause Belfry to be on the road at some point in the playoffs when they could have been at home with a full schedule...