After another week of hectic KHSAA postseason action, we are set for the third round of the playoffs. Three teams advanced from the local area, Bowling Green, Franklin-Simpson, and South Warren. Glasgow, Warren Central, Warren East and Monroe County all lost in the second round. The three teams that advanced to this point have been exceedingly successful, but they face much tougher tests this week.
Class 3A
South Warren vs. Paducah Tilghman
For yet another game, the South Warren Spartans’ defense held their opponent to under 20 points. Last week’s 48-16 win over Fort Campbell marked the most points that SWHS had allowed all season, but their offense showed out. Quarterback Jay Eblen ran for 214 yards and four touchdowns in the win. His running ability will need to be on display this week as the Spartans travel to play at Paducah Tilghman this Friday. The Blue Tornado have won six straight games, a streak that includes a 49-6 win over Monroe County last week. The thrasing of the 8-4 Monroe County proved that PTHS is one of the hottest teams in the state. The key to South Warren being able to win against the Blue Tornado will be running the ball. Paducah Tilghman has a solid run defense, and South Warren relies on their ability to keep the ball on the ground.
The Spartans will need to be able to run, as they have not been able to pass the ball successfully. Eblen went 0/2 with an interception last week, and has not had to pass much in 2013. Either way, Paducah Tilghman has the ability to hold back an offense. In their six game win streak, the Blue Tornado are yet to allow double figures from their opponent. South Warren’s defense may be even more impressive, allowing only 48 points all season. This game has the potential to be low scoing, as both of these teams have top defenses.
Class 4A
Franklin-Simpson vs. Owensboro
The 2013 season has been fantastic for the Franklin-Simpson Wildcats, but it is far from over. FSHS has won six straight games, and won their district for the first time since 2011. The 8-4 Wildcats travel to Owensboro High School in the third round to take on the Red Devils. This week’s game will be the most difficult test for FSHS in this year’s postseason. Owensboro has beaten teams severely this season, defeating each opponent by 18 or more in all of their nine wins. Their defensive line has been the anchor of the team’s defense in 2013. Led by Christian Woods and Logan Blue, the Red Devils have been shutdown in this year’s playoffs. OHS held Warren East’s potent rush offense to only 90 yards on the ground last week.The Red Devils may have a hard time stopping Franklin-Simpson’s pass offense, as they surrendered 179 yards from a struggling Warren East air attack. FSHS has tight end Joseph Hawkins to lead the way for their passing game, and he will need to have a big game to help his team to victory. Owensboro has had a great season, and their defense has been the key to their nine wins. They will need to do the same to beat FSHS this Friday.
Class 5A
Bowling Green vs. Graves County
The number one team in the state will continue their march to a third straight state title on the road against Graves County. The Bowling Green Purples beat Christian County 48-7 last week to continue their now 41-game winning streak. BGHS has had a secret weapon so far in the playoffs, his name is Blake Pillow. In the playoffs, Pillow has four total touchdowns and 161 total offensive yards. Along with Pillow, Mr. Football candidate Nacarius Fant has been unstoppable. Against Christian County, Fant had five catches for 154 yards and two touchdowns.
The Purples’ offense should have their way against Graves County. The Eagles allowed 42 points to Greenwood, and 27 points to Warren Central so far in the playoffs. GCHS has found a way to win their first two postseason through their offense. The 10-2 Eagles have a balanced offensive attack. Through Cory Crider on the ground, and Peyton Puckett through the air. Bowling Green’s defense has allowed 14 points all postseason, and they should be able to do the same this week against Graves County.
