Outlook- After struggling through a disappointing 1-5 season in 2020, Central Hardin and coach Tim Mattingly went back to basics and had a successful 2021-year finishing with a 7-3 regular season record. After winning their first-round playoff game over Barren County, a tough loss to North Hardin in the second round ended their season, but there are still plenty of young talented athletes returning in 2022.
Offense- The offense, which struggled in 2020, moved well under Mattingly’s Wing-T attack with sophomore Zak Spurrier under center. Spurrier completed 52-of-118 passes for 874-yards and 8-TDs while running for another 756-yards and 8-TDS. With Mason Thompson gone, Spurrier and senior back Terry Brooks will be the leading returning ground gainers along with Bradyn Robbins who was sidelined with a season ending injury. With Mason Thompson and Treyvon Williams gone, senior Adam Hobbs (who caught 15-passes) will be the best returning receiver. The Offensive Line returns All Area lineman Andrew Hobbs and will feature Tyler Caudill, Brandon Barnes and Tucker Walters.
Kicking game- The kicking game will return Kase Vanblijenbursh
Defense- The defense was much better in 2021 allowing just 183-points in twelve games and Mattingly will return much of his D-Line as well with Adam Hobbs(All Area Defensive POY), Andrew Hobbs and Tucker Walters. The Linebackers will have to be revamped with LaMarion Blount returning, but the Mattingly should find replacements. Noah Payton, McKay Payton, Brandon Lee, Micheal Camenzind, Mason Gardner and Matthew Withers could fit in as well. The secondary lost Carter Robinson but should return Terry Brooks and Caden Elmore. Other possibilities will be Walker Meredith, Jaxon Engstrand and Omar Mareez. The Bruins produced 16-pass interceptions and sacked the Quarterback 25-times.
Summation- Central Hardin’s quick turnaround from a one-win season was pretty impressive and Mattingly doesn’t see any reason why they can’t continue to challenge for the district title again with North Hardin and Meade County. The ability to continue to develop quality lineman will be a key to team success.
