Storm Warning: South Hopkins Neilan Bruce doing great things down on the farm  @ChiefSmoke10, @_CoachManning, @SylasGunn, @carlos_mason52, @HopkinsCentral, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans

December 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Neilan Bruce is among the more talked about prospects in Kentucky’s ’29 class. He plays QB, he has played WR, he has played RB, he has aligned in the slot, he plays a multitude of 2nd and 3rd level positions defensively. We believe he plays early and often next season under the “Friday Night Lights.” Enjoy this feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Brady Atwell is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @coach_chandler, @ChiefSmoke10, @BradyAtwell5,@OCath_Football, @bigassfans, @KyHighFootball

December 4, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Brady Atwell is firmly in the hunt for Kentucky’s “Mr. Football.” His uncle won the distinction in 1999 and playing at a level (Class A) which hasn’t boaster too many winners. Brady has a tough road to haul with Beechwood coming to Lexington seeking the same distinction as the Catholic club. Enjoy this feature and remember to both stop and smell the roses and #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Looking for a Mr. Football? We may have the man, right here, in Jarren Johnson from Union County! @55CoachJohns, @JarrenJohnson1_, @ChiefSmoke10, @sportingtimes, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans

December 2, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

It is getting time to vote for “Mr. Football” around Kentucky. There are plenty of candidates this year who have taken their teams to unimaginable heights. One candidate who shouldn’t be discounted nor overlooked is Union County’s Jarren Johnson. This guy here has had a “Mr. Football-type” season for the very reasons we discuss herein. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Austin Alexander is the @bigassfans Kentucky Comfort Creator of the Week @ChiefSmoke10, @minguabeefjerky, @CooperFootball, @AAlexander2025, @LemmingReport, @UNCFootball

November 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Austin Alexander is among the best ’25 footballers anywhere in the commonwealth of Kentucky. That is how one gets an offer to play Power 4 football in the ACC (University of North Carolina). Austin had a big game against Southwestern in the regionals but will have to tighten up a little bit if the Jaguars are to reach Lexington, Kentucky for the second consecutive year. Enjoy the feature and let’s keep it cool out there Kentucky!

Friday Night Fletch

Storm Warning: College programs, if you are looking for ‘plug and play’ versatility, Isaac Manning is your guy! @_CoachManning, @SylasGunn, @carlos_mason52, @HopkinsCentral, @ChiefSmoke10, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans, @UnionBulldogs, @CoachLuttrell49

November 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have focused on versatility all season long and even in the offseason leading up to the year. Isaac Manning is among the more versatile talents around western Kentucky and provides superlative value for college football programs recruiting him. He is a three-phase talent who displayed plenty of versatility in high school. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Ca$h Harney from Covington Catholic is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @HarneyCash, @ChasityHarney2, @CovCathFootball, @CovCathColonels, @bigassfans, @KyHighFootball

November 26, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We are publishing articles on days different from their usual appointments this week owing to the Thanksgiving holiday. Enjoy this particular serial, which generally appears on Wednesdays, a day early. Cash Harney has proven himself quite the athlete whether playing point guard or QB and has another year of elgibility remaining. That out to be a whole lot of fun for Norther Kentucky teams to have to face next Fall. Enjoy this feature and remember to both stop and smell the roses and #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Santee Brock is the @bigassfans Kentucky Comfort Creator of the Week @coach_chandler, @ChiefSmoke10, @minguabeefjerky, @l_santee5,

November 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Santee Brock is a guy who started the year on the sidelines but has come out into the sunshine in the latter stages of the season in a big, big way. This guy had an incredible game against Male in the second round and braces for a trip to Trinity for the Regional Championship. Enjoy the feature and let’s keep it cool out there Kentucky!

Friday Night Fletch

Storm Warning: McKnight Looks to Fulfill Considerable Promise @HopkinsCentral, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans, @KyHighFootball, @_CoachManning

November 21, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Some predictions age better than others. We wrote an article about this prospect in May of 2024. In that article we predicted this kid, who had an athletic frame and bounce, would have a “break out season.” He did just that. Join us as we crow about our innate ability to peer into the future regarding the prowess of a young player who has, once again, proven we know about what we are talking.

Friday Night Fletch.

Chase Flaherty is the Mingua Beef Jerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @EvanDennison1, @BeechwoodTigers, @tigersontheair, @beechwood_tiger, @BeechwoodA, @ChiefSmoke10, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans, @840WHAS

November 20, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Chase Flaherty is a baseball and football star at Beechwood High. Flaherty has been convincing this season as an all-state caliber running back as well as contributing on the defensive side of the football. Flaherty has this 17-time, KHSAA football champion firing on all cylinders as the season unwinds. Enjoy this feature and remember to both stop and smell the roses and #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Great Crossing Shocks duPont Manual in Playoffs

November 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The second round of the KHSAA playoffs made me glad I have stopped publishing picks. With the upsets we saw in round two, I would have looked even dumber than I actually am. None of the round two exits were any more surprising than this one. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Max Pelfry is the Big Ass Fans Kentucky Comfort Creator this Week @coach_chandler, @ChiefSmoke10, @pelfrey_max, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans, @KyHighFootball

November 15, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Max Pelfry has been “keeping it cool” around Kentucky for almost as long as Big Ass Fans. This guy has been among the best players at his position since his middle school All-Star days. His high school career has been everything we thought it would be and he would make an excellent “take” for a small college program looking to take on a next-level QB with all the skills. Enjoy the feature and let’s keep it cool out there Kentucky!

Friday Night Fletch

Storm Warning, ’24 season recapped!

November 14, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The season came to an inglorious end in Munfordville, Kentucky this past weekend. Still, there are many reasons to look forward to the program’s prospects and future success. We take a look back at the ’24 season as we slide into basketball season and football offseason training. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Austin Sperry from Breathitt High is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @bigassfans, @KyHighFootball, @AustinSperry, @BreathittFB

November 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Austin Sperry is a human highlight reel on the basketball court. He’s pretty dad-burn good at football too. He has been averaging over 30-yards a reception this season, and we are taking about a pretty good sample size (20-receptions, 7 for TDs). Enjoy this feature and remember to both stop and smell the roses and #SavorTheFlavor.

Fletcher W. Long

Jackson Stuart, from Sayre High, is the Big Ass Fans Kentucky Comfort Creator of the Week @bigassfans, @JacksonStu_13, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS

November 8, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

I know it seems this particular feature has promoted quite a few Sayre Spartans. We can assure you it isn’t intended. It is just hard to ignore a program which has just polished off a perfect regular season at 10-0 headed into the Class A KHSAA playoffs. Why is that so hard to ignore? How about because there are only seven (7) such records among the 223-programs playing football across the commonwealth and Sayre is the only perfect regular season in its classification. Enjoy the feature and let’s keep it cool out there Kentucky!

Friday Night Fletch

Storm Warning: Central Hopes to bring some inclement weather to Munfordville, KY @_CoachManning, @HopkinsCentral, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans, @griffinchad22, @HartCountyFball

November 7, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We couldn’t get a tougher draw in the first round than a Hart County squad which has proven itself an elite team, winning 23 of 24-football games, over the past two seasons. Chad Griffin is among the hottest coaches in Kentucky and on everyone’s hot board for every job which comes open. We think the Storm will acquit itself on Friday night in Munfordville better than most expect. In the end, the Storm should be loose. No one outside the team’s locker room will be picking them.

Friday Night Fletch

Braxton Jennings from Paul Blazer High is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @Tomcat_football, @Brax_Jennings, @bigassfans, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball

November 6, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Braxton Jennings is among the highest regarded and recruited ’25 prospects in the KHSAA. He is also among its better kept secrets. Jennings has led his Tomcats to a 9-1 mark, entering the 4A playoffs, and Ashland has yet to lose a game to a Kentucky high school on the year. What will they do in these upcoming playoffs? Well I can tell you this, they will be heard from, and so will Mr. Jennings.

Friday Night Fletch

Don’t forget Paul Blazer High in Ashland, KY @Tomcat_football, @Brax_Jennings, @CtackettC, @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS

November 4, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

In all of the excitement this year surrounding Boyle County’s thirty some-odd straight game winning streak, the Franklin Flyers being 10-0, and the Blue Tornado of Paducah finishing 10-0 and blowing out pretty much ever team it has played, we have sort of overlooked how good of a football team Ashland Blazer is. We have sone advice for 4A, best not overlook these guys going forward. You have been warned.

Friday Night Fletch

Kade Goodin from Collins High is the @bigassfans Kentucky Comfort Creator of the Week @KadeGoodin, @MLCTitanCoach, @drew_toennies, @cleats2whistle, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @minguabeefjerky

November 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Kade Goodin is a ’27 guy we have been following for years. You may wonder how that is even possible? If we just covered HS, it probably wouldn’t be but we get on these guys in middle school and often follow them to college. This guy is a future Saturday player at a minimum. He has plus size, length, and athleticism. He is a two sport varsity athlete, also playing point guard in basketball, which is the QB of a basketball team. He is a QB for Collins but is projected to play WR at the next level. Enjoy the feature and let’s keep it cool out there Kentucky.

Friday Night Fletch

Storm Warning: Fulton County will Pilot its ship into the Central Harbor Friday Night @_CoachManning, @HopkinsCentral, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans, @FCHSPILOTSFB, @JamesBridgesFC

October 31, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This Friday night the Pilots will guide its ship into an unfriendly port. Morton’s Gap will host this ball game which will be pivotal regarding how the Storm enters the upcoming playoffs. We need to go into the playoffs on a good note. We need to take care of business at home before going out on the road for round one. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Colt Mizuguchi, from Kentucky Country Day is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @bigassfans, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball, @KCDFootball1, @kcdfootball

October 30, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We don’t always recognize place-kickers with the frequency the position is due. So many times these place kickers win the game for the team and rarely get any kudos. This past Friday night, Kentucky Country Day beat the top-ranked 1A team in Campbellsville. The margin? Two PATs converted by today’s Protein-packed Performance, Colt Mizuguchi. Enjoy this feature and remember to both stop and smell the roses and #SavorTheFlavor.

Fletcher W. Long

GAME WEEK, no one knows that any better than Brenan Griffith @griffinchad22, @AsburyKameron, @HartCountyFball, @BrenanGriffin, @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS

October 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

When the polls get released, and the new RPI gets dropped, don’t be surprised to see Coach Chad Griffin’s Raiders from Hart County either at the very top or, certainly, around it. The team was 13-1 in 2023 and are 9-0 with a date with Campbellsville upcoming. Great coaches and great teams have great players. Brenan Griffin may be the best, raw, football player in Kentucky 3A. What would make us lay such a bold claim? Read on.

Friday Night Fletch

Parker Rudolph helped his Bearcats reach the Mountain-top! @Rudolph13Parker, @bigassfans, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KCDFootball1, @kcdfootball, @minguabeefjerky

October 28, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

What an upset this past weekend, as Kentucky Country Day over Campbellsville denied me my first perfect weekend. Oh well, 14-1; I’ll take it. Parker Rudolph had quite the night and, not only was it statistically impressive, it came against the best team in the classification. Look out for KCD, they are alway quite good but this bunch may be special.

Friday Night Fletch

Luke Pennington from Sayre High is the Big Ass Fans, Kentucky Comfort Creator of the week @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball, @lpennington_10, @DaytonFootball, @PitSayre

October 25, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Luke Pennington, a Dayton commit, has been keeping it pretty cool out there under the “Friday Night Lights.” Matter of fact, our Kentucky Comfort Creator has thrown 82-TDs the last two seasons without a single INT. He completes nearly 80% of his passing attempts making him among the most efficient QBs the high school game in Kentucky has ever seen. Enjoy the feature and let’s keep it cool out there Kentucky.

Friday Night Fletch

Armani Gregg from Dixie Heights is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @GreggArmani1, @DixieHeightsFB, @CoachPBurke, @FOX19Joe, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @bigassfans

October 23, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Armani Gregg is listed as a QB on the roster and it is where it appears he principally plays. He didn’t look like a QB running up and down the field again t the Scott Eagles this past weekend. Enjoy this look at one of the better prospects in Northern Kentucky. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Brady Johnson from Shelby Valley is the Big Ass Fans, Kentucky Comfort Creator of the week @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball, @SVCoachJohnson, @ShelbyValleyFB

October 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Brady Johnson is one, cool customer. That is why the ’26 dual threat QB is perfect for this particular award. Johnson was near flawless in Shelby Valley’s upset of Pike County Central at the Hawks Nest. What will he do this week? Won’t that be fun to learn?

Friday Night Fletch

Storm Warning: Central to host Trigg County in Mortons Gap for pivotal, district contest @_CoachManning, @HopkinsCentral. @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans

October 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Central finds itself exactly where it was a year ago. However, this time just feels differently. The Storm pushed McLean to overtime before bowing out gracefully, 48-46, and Fort Campbell’s beating North has taught us all a little something about never quitting before the combatants even take the field. We like Central to win this game and set its ’24 record at 3-5 heading into the final two. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Jayden Woods from Clay County, is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @bigassfans, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball, @CCTigerFootball, @HCMikeSizemore

October 16, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Jayden Woods has his team sitting 5-1 with a tough remaining stretch to get to 8-1 entering the playoffs. Woods is tearing it up for the Tigers and gained 173-yards on the ground last weekend against a tough McCreary Central “Raiders” squad. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Chase Ross, Senior RB, leading his Patriots on a historic charge to victory! @acs_sports, @bgpreps, @AllenCoSchools, @ACSHPatriots, @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS

October 15, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Allen County-Scottsville (ACS) is killing it this season. The Patriots are 6-1 with a loss to Tilghman the only thing between it and a perfect record. The Patriots have beaten Glasgow, Franklin-Simpson, Logan County, and Warren East. We believe the Patriots have a nearly 90% chance of sliding into the playoffs 9-1. Won’t that be something?

Friday Night Fletch

Austin Sperry, from Breathitt High, is the Big Ass Fans, Kentucky Comfort Creator of the week @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball @AustinSperry @BreathittFB

October 11, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We are welcoming a new corporate sponsor to the family in Big Ass Fans out of Lexington, Kentucky. We imagine this article will become a regularly appearing Friday serial similar to some of the sponsored content we have before published here. Bit Ass Fans has committed itself to quality more than the mere size of its industrial sized fans. The product is backed by commitment to performance, reliability, and innovation which has been a driving force behind the company in the twenty or so years it has existed. Enjoy this feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Dylan Morris from Hancock County is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @DylanMorris2025, @WeAreHCFootball, @bigassfans @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS

October 9, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Dylan Morris is a guy tearing it up for Hancock County. Hancock County is 7-0 with a 72% chance of finishing 10-0 this regular season by our calculations. Morris had a 71% completion percentage against Webster County and threw for 417-yards and 6-TDs. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Rumors of the Eagles demise appear greatly exaggerated! @CoachDCharles, @Oakley_Watkins, @LCAathletics, @JDMLCAFootball, @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS

October 7, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

LCA came out the gate slowly this season. Of course the 2A powerhouse opened with the best high school team in Kentucky (any classification), Boyle County, then followed that up with a six-point loss to an always tough Franklin County (4A). The Eagles are 5-0 since to include wins over the defending 1A champion (Pikeville) and the defending 3A champion (Christian Academy-Louisville). As we come down the regular season homestretch, the Eagles are looking every bit the container we expected to see.

Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Well, here we go again! @_CoachManning, @HopkinsCentral. @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @minguabeefjerky, @bigassfans

October 3, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We don’t even know what to say about the Storm after its impressive “beat down” of Webster County, 29-0. Manning made some changes to the deployment of personnel both on offense and defense to put kids in better positions to succeed and succeed they did. Tonight, the Storm will travel to Dixon, KY to take on an always tough, McLean County team. How do the Storm finish the final four of the regular season? Seems like we have been here before.

Friday Night Fletch.

Will Moore, from Sayre High, is the Big Ass Fans, Kentucky Comfort Creator of the week @bigassfans, @minguabeefjerky, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball

October 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We are welcoming a new corporate sponsor to the family in Big Ass Fans out of Lexington, Kentucky. We imagine this article will become a regularly appearing Friday serial similar to some of the sponsored content we have before published here. Bit Ass Fans has committed itself to quality more than the mere size of its industrial sized fans. The product is backed by commitment to performance, reliability, and innovation which has been a driving force behind the company in the twenty or so years it has existed. Enjoy this feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Meet Bryan Jones, the King of Leitchfield, KY @bigassfans @sfitz_840whas @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @minguabeefjerky @GCHSCougarFB

October 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Bryan Jones is among the hottest young coaches in the industry Kentucky-wide. He has his Cougars playing football at an incredibly high level and looking every bit like 5A threats coming down the season’s home stretch. Enjoy this look at another one of those coaches sure to get plenty of air time this offseason as programs will jockey for coaches.

Friday Night Fletch

Brody providing ‘Cherry’ play along the Centurion front @sfitz_840whas @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @centurions_fb @THunterCantwell

September 30, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

“Cherry” is a term with which we are familiar particularly in discussing vintage automobiles. Cherry is beginning to define excellent down lineman play for the Centurion defense, or that is what it meant this past Thursday night in the big road win at Manual High. Look out for these Centurions, 3A, they are getting their playoff legs ready for the running. Can’t wait to see what they do against Central in a few weeks.

Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Central welcomes Webster County to Morton’s Gap with both squads in bad need of a win @WebCoFootball, @_CoachManning, @HopkinsCentral. @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @minguabeefjerky

September 26, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Storm get ready to welcome Webster County to Morton’s Gap. With district heavyweights Hancock and McLean on the horizon, and a loss to Union County last week, the games with Trigg and Webster are key to making the playoffs. Central is battling for that fourth chair in this musical chairs game we know as first district ball. The Storm can win this game. The Storm must win this game.

Friday Night Fletch

Jack James is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @_jackjames9 @sfitz_840whas @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @westkystar

September 25, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Jack James has set all kinds of “All Time” quarterbacking records during his time at Tilghman High in Paducah, Kentucky. This past Friday night, James was on fire. James completed 22 of his 35-passing attempts, for 309-yards passing, and 4-TDs through the air with one coming on the ground. What kind of night was it? It was a Jerky-worthy performance. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Stonebreaker is the cornerstone for a contending Indian football program @SolomonStonebr2 @adairfbcoach @KyHighFootball @sfitz_840whas @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky

September 24, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Solomon Stonebreaker is among the best WRs in 3A football. He plays for one of its better teams, for one of its better coaches, and is also one of its. better athletes and defensive backs. This guy is all-stud. When you digest the numbers and the statistics you are left with one inescapable conclusion…Solomon is the cornerstone of a well constructed program.

Friday Night Fletch.

JP Perryman from Fort Campbell, KY is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week!

September 18, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have called it the biggest upset in the KHSAA since we began covering it approximately a decade ago. We couldn’t believe it when it was reported to us thinking it almost had to have been a typo. It wasn’t a typo and JP Perryman played a pivotal role in its occurring. If this isn’t worth some of the world’s finest beef jerky, it is hard to imagine what is. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Cash Harney, from Covington Catholic, is Ca$h Money! @KyHighFootball @sfitz_840whas @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky

September 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Cash Harney is probably the most dangerous backfield threat in Northern Kentucky. The Beechwood transfer has settled into his new home and has knotted the Colonel’s record at two’s. Beechwood comes to town this Friday Night. If Cash Harney continues to be Cash Money, like he’s been, the Tigers may find the Colonels have sprung a trap. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Cinderella arrives at the Ball, Fort Campbell upends Madisonville-North Hopkins

September 16, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

It was the singular, most incredible upset in Kentucky HS football since I began covering the topic in April of 2015. If I could have bet my house on North Hopkins winning this game, I would be homeless today. Lots of Cinderellas find themselves at the Ball but very few of them have the wherewithal to actually bag the Prince. Most of the time, the Cinderellas get to the Ball and end up going home with a busboy from the catering company-still not a bad night but not the prize for which you came to the Ball. We will explain that analogy to you in the article. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Trevor Joiner from Muhlenberg County leading 5A in tackles @CountyMustangs @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @sfitz_840whas @KyHighFootball

September 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Trevor Joiner moved over from Butler County to play football at the 5A level with the Mustangs of Muhlenberg County. He has been playing with a cast on his left arm which has been recently removed. Joiner and the “other Trevor (Hardesty)” are both averaging over 5-yards a carry on offense. Look out for Josh Staples’s “Stands,” as they are getting better and better by the week.

Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Rockets landing in Morton’s Gap, Friday Night; Storm has reason for optimism

September 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Storm have a winnable game coming to the Gap but there are no off weeks for this particular edition of Hopkins County Central’s football program. Crittenden County is among the tougher customers in the 2A classification on this end of Kentucky generally and the Storm will be playing a team in as bad of a need of a “W” as are they. We will break down this matchup and some of the personnel which will factor into the outcome. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Montavin Quisenberry is proving to be the ‘little Q who could,’ and is our Protein-packed Performer of the Week. @CoachHaddix11 @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

September 11, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We call him “Q,” and we have written about him for years. What we have never said before now is he may be among the nation’s top 100 players. We know he is Kentucky’s top player in the ’25 class but, as a national prospect, we believe him to be well undervalued. The 5’9,” West Virginia commit will show the world as surely as he just showed the country’s 12th ranked, high school football team (St. Edward’s, OH). Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Kentucky’s top OG (Bo Wolford) and one of the best teams in 3A (Belfry) braces for tough road trip to even its record @wolford_bo @BelfryFootball1 @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @sfitz_840whas

September 10, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We believe Bo Wolford from Belfry is the best OG in the KHSAA. We have bad news for the rest of KY, he’s a ’26 so he’ll be back another year. Bo is 6’3,” and has slimmed to 285-pounds. He bench presses 345, squats 525, and carries a 4.0 GPA. He’s an FBU Adidas All-American. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch

The Russell County Lakers would relate, not all 0-2 records are similarly constructed @LukePopplewell0, @Frenchie564, @kinnett_wills_, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @KyHighFootball

September 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

There are some mighty good football teams standing at 0-2 around the commonwealth of Kentucky. Largely, it all depends on whom you have played. For instance, Central High (Lou.), Pikeville, and Lexington Christian Academy are all 0-2. We promise you, none of the three are “throwing in the towel.” The boys from Russell Springs, Kentucky are in the same class. They are 0-2 but have opened with two mighty tough teams and look to get off that “schneid” this evening, at home, when John Hine’s Cardinals come a’calling. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Look out North-Hopkins, you may be in for inclement weather

September 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Storm have a huge mountain to climb Friday night as it travels to Badgett Stadium, cross town, to play a red hot Maroons team from North-Hopkins. North is 2-0 and ranked the 22nd best football team in Kentucky regardless of classification. We’re not sure there has ever been a Maroon’s team more highly regarded. We will break down this matchup and some of the personnel which will factor into the outcome. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Zak Anderson from Pulaski County High is the Mingua Beef Jerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @PCHSFB, @BradyHull1, @CoachRoberts_PC, @coachtaburns @minguabeefjerky @KyHighFootball @AlPopsFootball

September 4, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Zak Anderson is a 6’5,” 195-pound athlete who is a star on both the gridiron and the hardwood. Anderson had a tremendously efficient outing this past week against Danville completing seven of eight passes, four of which were for TDs. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor.

Friday Night Fletch

Storm Warning: The Falcons invade The Gap, may not like the weather report @FC_FALCONS_FB @_CoachManning, @HopkinsCentral, @KyHighFootball

August 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Hopkins Central got off to a rocky start here in ’24. The same can be said of Fort Campbells opening loss to Clarksville NE. These two teams meet on Friday night and they both badly need to come out on top. We like Central in this contest, but they can’t make the same mistakes made against Caldwell or the result will be similar. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch

Lincoln Acree, from Graves County High, wins a second Protein-packed Performer Award from @minguabeefjerky @Lincoln_Acree @GracieAcree @Jody_Acree @coach_debo @PrepSpin @KyHighFootball

August 28, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Lincoln Acree won this award this past offseason for an incredible outing at the Rivals camp in Atlanta. Once the season commenced, the stud athlete was up to his old tricks. When you play for Graves County, a win over Mayfield doesn’t happen everyday so it should be celebrated and rewarded.

Friday Night Fletch.

Mr. B with the fantastic opener, rockets to the top of the linebacker list @PCCHSFootball, @NoahCreigh, @WYMT @KyHighFootball, @sfitz_840whas, @840WHAS, @AlPopsFootball

August 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We called him the best middle school football player in Kentucky last season. If the opener is an indication, we couldn’t have been any more on the money than we were with Bryson “Mr. B.” Johnson. Johnson had 16-tackles, 1.5-TFLs in the opener against a really good Somerset squad. While Perry County Central fans would have much preferred a different outcome, they still were enthused about the play of the young, freshman, LB.

Friday Night Fletch.

Max Dotson anchors the Belfry offensive front @BelfryFootball1 @G_Runyon5 @natesanger11 @minguabeefjerky @KyHighFootball

August 24, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

They have a group of people named “Dotson” around Pike County, KY (Belfry). These boys can flat out ball. We got a note from legendary head football coach, Phillip Haywood, asked us to take a look at Max Boston, his senior offensive center. We like what we saw of this 6’2,” 310 pound blocking machine. He sort of reminded us of UK’s Drake Jackson. I remember him working out pretty well. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Central still getting used to that new car smell…

August 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The final preseason tune-up bode well for the near future as the Storm went 4-0 in varsity and JV scrimmages in a three team round robin including Russellville and Ohio County. We will break down the action from that outing and see if we can’t read the tea leaves regarding the upcoming future. Enjoy this feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Deven Leclercq from Southwestern High rising to the top of the Bigs in his class @JasonFoley22 @jherron_5 @Southwestern_FB @12thSports @CoachRenoYale @CoachJanecek

August 20, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Deven Leclercq from Southwestern High is a lineman about whom we warned you this time last year. He was coming off an impressive freshman campaign and entering his sophomore season among the very best the class of ’26 had to offer. A year later, he hasn’t done anything to dampen our enthusiasm about his next level prospects. Enjoy the feature.

Friday Night Fletch.

Gray Schmittel, from North Oldham, taking versatility to the extreme @gray_schmittel, @NOHSFball, @BDRoberts20, @AlPopsFootball

August 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have been focusing on versatility this offseason. We can’t think of a more versatile specimen than a guy who successfully stars in three varsity sports. This guy is ranked among the Derby City’s very best and is already sporting an offer to play at DePauw in Indiana. We love the Monon Bell Classic. Just thought we would throw that in there. Friday Night Fletch.

Preseason scrimmages: What do they mean? What do they tell us? @KyHighFootball @AlPopsFootball

August 16, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We used to say when I was in the law game that nobody knows all the answers but that a wise man knows where the answers may be found. When I need perspective I have a text group I consult. These guys are either already in the KHSAA Hall of Fame or headed there immediately upon becoming eligible. I got a couple to weigh-in on the relative importance of preseason scrimmages and this is what the two gentlemen had to offer. Friday Night Fletch.

Scouting Report: Russellville Next Scrimmage Up Before Season Starts; Transfer Rumors[?]

August 15, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We are steamrolling into the season opener on August 23rd. There is still the matter of a scrimmage against the Russellville Panthers. The Panthers were an extremely young, inexperienced team a year ago. These guys are always athletic and the added experience should indicate a different Panther squad than the one we saw limp to a 2-9 finish in 2023. Enjoy this “scouting report.” Friday Night Fletch.

Cade Scott from Meade County is flipping the script for the Green Wave @bmofield2, @Cade_Scott06, @MeadeFB, @SportsConnectKY

August 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Cade Scott is raring to go and improve on what his teammates and he did in ’23. The Green Wave were quick out of the gate, winning five of the first six, then faded down the stretch, losing one of its last games by a solitary point to Pleasure Ridge Park (Lou.). Scott is a 6’5,” 200 pound QB who can play LB (if need be) and punts. He is also a varsity B-Baller. Outside of all that, he is rounding into one of the more sought after athletes, KY-wide, in the 2026 graduating class. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Apollo may have served notice its luck has changed @VisionQb, @PrepRedzoneKY @AlPopsFootball @drew_toennies @minguabeefjerky

August 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Well, scrimmages are in full swing. This time last year, a 4A team I had predicted would struggle tied a 5A power in a scrimmage which made the 4A coach scream all over social media that I was a complete idiot. The 4A team went 1-9, the 5A team challenged for the title at its level of play. Obviously, that scrimmage was meaningless. Well, Friday night Johnson’s Apollo squad pasted Logan County, at 4A team usually in the hunt. What does it mean? Does it mean anything? We’ll discuss. Friday Night Fletch.

RB Cortez Stone, from Central High (Louisville), is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @8gocrazzyyRB @AlPopsFootball @KyHighFootball

August 6, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This is a kid many believe may be the definitive running back in the commonwealth of Kentucky in the class of ’25. He gained close to 1,900 yards a year ago and added another couple hundred receiving. His Central team is yearly in the running for a title in its classification and we don’t believe ’24 will be any different. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Three weeks from the season opener a freshman is pushing for time, there has been some staff shake-up, and Central sees a pathway to 7-wins…

August 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Coming into the season we have a variety of news to report. First, Cajun Hayes is looking like we predicted back on May 24, 2024. He is pushing for starter’s reps and has looked fantastic, particularly after the hitting started. Central has lost some coaches. Our Morton’s Gap agent tells us he sees a pathway to seven or eight wins this regular season. Enjoy this installment. Friday Night Fletch.

Who wins 4A? Better find a storm shelter, a Blue Tornado looks like it is on the way! @pths_football, @BCRebelFootball, @FootballJCHS, @Tomcat_football, @CovCathFootball, @PCCHSFootball, @AlPopsFootball, @minguabeefjerky, @840WHAS, @sfitz_840whas

July 28, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Surely, Boyle County can’t win 4A every year. They are coming off a four-peat looking to five-peat and they have a very good chance. However, there is a leviathan building on the western-end of Kentucky and it is hungry and ready to be let loose. Enjoy this look at 4A. Friday Night Fletch.

Preseason, 2A, top-five (5) plus a pair of programs for which to keep a lookout @OCath_Football, @MHSCardinalsFB, @BeechwoodFB, @LCAEAGLESFB, @BJNFBALL, @BreathittFb, @MurrayTigerFB, @840WHAS, @AlPopFootball, @sfitz_840whas, @minguabeefjerky, @KyHighFootball

July 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We like the Aces to get back to Lexington this coming season and believe they will escape with the crown. We also believe programs like Beechwood, LCA, and Mayfield will have a bunch to say about it. Somerset is lurking around and are coming off a fine season with weaponry coming back from last season’s roster. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Preseason Top Five in 3A plus a few more @BelfryFootball1, @TriggFootball, @centurions_fb, @CHSJacketFB, @echsfb, @LexCath @AlPopFootball @840WHAS @sfitz_840whas

July 26, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Well, it is time for us to pick the 3A classification and how it will “shake out” this coming Fall. We could take the coward’s way out and pick last year’s champion, Christian Academy-Louisville, to repeat. Instead, we took the coward’s way out and picked eight-time title holder, Belfry. Enjoy. Friday Night Fletch.

Un-block-able, Kese Harris from @ColonelFootball appears to be a problem for Colonel opponents @ColonelFootball, @Treez23_, @KLanghi, @Christian_Co270, @PureGradeA, @AlPopFootball @minguabeefjerky @KyHighFootball @CoachAtchley

July 25, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Demarkese Harris stepped away from the game in ’23 for reasons for which we wouldn’t be so bold as to fathom a guess. We can tell you “Kese” is back in a big way at Christian County and no two coaches are any happier about that than head man, Ethan Atchley, and defensive coordinator, Tony “Cheese” McCombs. Look for Kese to put up monster production in the coming Fall and look for his Colonels to be a much improved outfit than the one you remember from the year prior. Enjoy the article. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: The offensive front at Central will likely lean on Mason, Crick, Brown, Miles and Scott @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @PrepRedzone @KyHighFootball

July 25, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This article here will prove “we’re out there” as much as any we have published maybe ever. Getting a handle on whom will be manning any team’s OL is a challenge. We can’t comment on all five slots, but feel confident we can predict three of the five slots. Enjoy this edition of Storm Warning. Friday Night Fletch.

Landon Yoak from East Carter is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week. @Landon_yoak @echsfb @CoachChamplin @AlPopsFootball @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

July 24, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Landon Yoak was one of Kentucky’s leaders in yards gained rushing from scrimmage a season ago. He was only a sophomore and helped lead his team to a 9-3 finish and near upset of Bell County, a 3A finalist, in the regional championship game. The Raiders lost 38-36 in overtime. Well Tim Champlin’s team looks to be loaded and ready for an even deeper run. Having the Yoak kid back for his junior season, at the pace he is setting, will be HUGE. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Defection…Top 6A RB from Simon Kenton takes his talents to Anderson HS in Ohio… @rell_turner1 @CoachEvanDreyer

July 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Players defecting hither, tither, and yon is a common occurrence and problem these days. Simon Kenton should be enjoying the benefits of having the classification’s top rusher returning. Instead, they are left to “pick up the pieces” as Turner has bolted to another school which may, or may not be, “greener pastures.” Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Desmond Richard from DeSales proves dynamite comes in smallish packages! @DeSalesColtsFB @jamesatkinson44 @a_lanham17 @840WHAS @AlPopsFootball @PrepRedZone @KyHighFootball

July 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Colts were among the more feared teams in HS football. Then, all of a sudden, they weren’t. It has been a long battle back up the ladder but St. Francis DeSales looks poised to resume its place among the Kentucky elite. Getting performances like what Desmond Richard did in ’23 has been the key. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Hopkins County Central opens at Caldwell County: How we See It! @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @PrepRedzone @KyHighFootball

July 18, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

These two teams met a year ago. It was a six-point margin in Morton’s Gap and the margin in Princeton this year figures to be even closer. This game is a real “toss up” and this article will explain that to you. The Storm needs this game badly if it wants to reach the goals set for this coming season. We can’t wait. We’re sure you are as excited as well. Friday Night Fletch.

Kace Eastridge from Campbellsville is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @EastridgeKace @840WHAS @AlPopsFootball @PrepRedZone @KyHighFootball

July 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Kace Eastridge is among the best dual threat QBs in Kentucky’s class of ’26. He is also one of Kentucky’s best baseball players at any level or any graduating year. The 6’1,” 190-pound RHP,OF plays QB on offense and LB on defense for the Eagles. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Who is set to take the 2A title in football this Fall? We like the ‘little team which could,’ the Aces from Owensboro Catholic @CroweDereon @OCath_Football @SrHighFootball @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @BradyAtwell5

July 16, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Every year we like Owensboro Catholic to challenge for a title in 2A. Every year they seem to do just that before dropping a game in a late round. Last year, the Aces had the ball, down five, with a chance to go down the field and win the title and fell just shy of the mark. We like these guys to “do it” in ’24. We are taking them to win it. Enjoy the article. Friday Night Fletch.

In Middlesboro, the path to winning football involves some French @SportsOT @berea_football @Frenchie564 @KyHighFootball @kyhighs @HLpreps @MBORO_FOOTBALL @barstoolmboro

July 14, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Larry French has built a contender in Middlesboro, Kentucky in the five years he’s been at the helm, going 54-14. The Yellow Jackets were 10-44 the five seasons before his arrival. Graduation riddled the roster somewhat; but, in the end, French is back and that has proven to offset plenty of roster defections over the years. Enjoy the article. Friday Night Fletch.

TK Kay maybe the most versatile performer in the KHSAA @AlPopsFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @The_CoachLo @HopkAthletics

July 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Triston “TK” Kay has had quite the career at Hoptown as a performer the Tigers could turn to for production whether on offense, defense, or special teams. He enters his senior year among the most versatile performers in all of the KHSAA. His head football coach swears he is among the best 50-players in all of Kentucky. We certainly would be inclined to agree from a production stand point. Enjoy the article. Friday Night Fletch.

DeAndre Watkins helping to change the culture back to the Colonels of yesteryear @CoachAtchley @AlPopsFootball @ColonelFootball @ReallyTristin @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

July 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

De’André Watkins is a guy coming off his sophomore season which saw him get plenty of PT for a young guy laboring on a 6A roster. We believe the Colonels will be way more formidable in ’24 then they were at any time in ’23. Matter of fact, one doesn’t have to be too old to remember a time the Colonels were a holy terror upon the western-KY landscape. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

The Top Teams in 6A and one who should be closely monitored @FDouglassFB, @TrinityHSFB, @Ryle_Football, @BSHSfootball_, @StXTigersFB, @CountyColonels, @LMHSCoachWolfe, @KYHighFootball, @AlPopsFootball 

July 11, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This look at 6A completes our preparation for the season. We have studied rosters, gone over what is coming back, fretted over the losses, and have given an informed opinion about how all six classes will flesh out. We are ready for the season. How ready are you? Let’s get it on. Friday Night Fletch.

Carter Edwards & Storm open camp with a purpose @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @PrepRedzone @KyHighFootball

July 11, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Carter Edwards is a guy Coach Manning couldn’t stop raving about when we talked with him after practice number one, post-Dead Period. Here’s the thing, we believe he is about to be nationally ranked as a Long Snapper. Edwards has demonstrated, so far, the spirit and leadership this team will need. Enjoy this version of “Storm Warning.” Friday Night Fletch.

Easton Jessie, 3-Star QB, is our @minguabeefjerky, Protein-packed Performer of the Week @1776Bank @EastonJessie1 @adairfbcoach @840WHAS

July 10, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This kid here was easily among the better dual-threats in all of Kentucky’s ’25 graduating class at any level of play in ’23. He accounted for 27-TDs throwing and running. He will head to Toledo to play in college but will first stop off in Columbia, Kentucky to help out Coach Steve Stonebraker’s boys. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Middle School Spotlight: Christian County Middle plans to ride its Big Three to a championship @minguabeefjerky @AlPopsFootball @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @bigassfans @PrepRedzone

July 9, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

There is a well renown scout who put online that he could take the best middle school players in Georgia and beat the majority of high school teams in 23 of the 52-states. We think that estimation may be a bit modest. We believe we could take the commonwealth’s foremost Middle School stars and beat 150 of Kentucky’s 222 high school football teams. This team we are featuring today is going to be a mighty hard out come playoff time around western Kentucky. They will rely on “the Big Three (Bryson Ford, Kendrick Mainu, and Antonio Ware)” to get there. Friday Night Fletch.

The Big Boys playing for the Big Boys. The Large School (4A, 5A, & 6A), Preseason, All-State OL @minguabeefjerky @kyhighs @KyHighFootball @840WHAS @bigassfans

July 8, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We are going through and featuring a preseason all-state football team position by position. We are featuring players in the small classifications and players in the larger classifications. Today we are featuring the “Big Boys” playing for the Big Boys. This is the preseason, large school, All-State offensive linemen. Enjoy. Friday Night Fletch.

Small School, Preseason, All-State Football offensive line @bigassfans @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @kyhighs @AlPopsFootball @_Jakeryan63 @OakleyWatkins @TreforThomas54

July 6, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The season is upon us quicker than you would believe. Dead Period is over in two days and there is nothing on the other side of Dead Period apart from Seven’s tournaments, scrimmages, and openers. We are going to put together some preseason all-state groupings. We hope to get to all the position groups, but can’t promise it. Here are the Small School, Preseason, All-State offensive linemen. Enjoy, and let the arguing begin…Friday Night Fletch!

Zane Johnson is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @ZaneJohnson_3 @TrinityHSFB @Coach_AHiggins @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS

July 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Zane Johnson did the un-thinkable a year ago. He started at QB for one of the country’s premier programs against a nationally prominent schedule and led the team to its 28th title. Wow, what a mouthful! He is entering his sophomore season and he is poised to stake his claim as one of the commonwealth’s very best HS QBs at any level. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Tristin Dillard cleared for play at CCHS by KHSAA… @CoachAtchley @AlPopsFootball @ColonelFootball @ReallyTristin @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

July 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Tristin Dillard came out of Middle School ranked by most the pundits among the top three RBs in Kentucky’s 2027 graduating class. Dillard had a solid freshman season but has transferred to 6A, first district, Christian County and looks to us to be set for take off. The Colonels will be vastly improved in ’24 from the team which competed in ’23. Players like Dillard are the reason why. Enjoy the article. Friday Night Fletch.

Bryson Rowley from Raceland High is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @racelandramsfb @ramnation45 @Coach_Francis @1776Bank @840WHAS

July 3, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Bryson Rowley very quietly inserted himself in ’23 into the best football player in the Kentucky ’26 graduating class. The 6,’ 175-pounder excelled at both WR and DB for the Rams who took another shot at a 1A title, though came up a bit short. The Rams were laden with senior talent so how good will Coach Salmons crew be this Fall is anyone’s guess. But Hey! It is Raceland. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

NewsRadio 840 WHAS and KPGFootball’s Big School (Class 4A, 5A, & 6A) All-State Football Team @1776Bank @minguabeefjerky @sfitz_840whas

July 2, 2024 Fletcher Long 6

In collaboration with News Radio 840 WHAS and our show, “Friday Night Kentucky” our own Friday Night Fletch and the staff at KPGFootball were tasked with creating both a small and big school All-State Football team. This is the big school team and is comprised of players from 4A, 5A, & 6A classifications. Enjoy. Friday Night Fletch.

NewsRadio 840 WHAS and KPGFootball’s Small School (Class 1A, 2A, & 3A) All-State Football Team from 2023! @1776Bank @minguabeefjerky @HopkinsCentral

July 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 3

In collaboration with News Radio 840 WHAS and our show, “Friday Night Kentucky” our own Friday Night Fletch and the staff at KPGFootball were tasked with creating both a small and big school All-State Football team. This is the small school team and is comprised of players from 1A, 2A, & 3A classifications. Enjoy. Friday Night Fletch.

Elijah Hankins will be carrying much of the load for the Red Devils this next season @reddevilsfball @elijah_hankins @russellfball @tjmaynard54 @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

June 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Red Devils from Russell High lost a ton of production from off its 7-5 football team in ’23. They lost their leading passer, leading rusher, leading tackler, 2nd leading scorer, and 2nd leading back-end defender all in losing the one player, District POY, Ethan Pack. They lost way more than that off a team which was a couple scores from 9-3. However, let’s focus on what they return. One very valuable and versatile weapon returning is ’25’s Elijah Hankins. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Ethan Warder from Bowling Green Senior High is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @EthanWarder2 @CentreFootball @CoachSpader @KyHighFootball @minguabeefjerky

June 28, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Ethan Warder is a prospect the Centre Colonels, among many other programs, is pursuing mightily. Warder fills the stat sheets with statistics which turn around football games. We will be very surprised if the Purples don’t repeat in ’25 as 5A title holders. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

STORM WARNING: Is Isaac Manning a candidate for the small school All-State Football Team? Wouldn’t bet against him! @_CoachManning @HopkinsCentral @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @JoshGunn311

June 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Isaac Manning is a rising senior who looks poised to make a run at our end of the year, small-school (1A, 2A, & 3A) All-State football team. He is a versatile player and athlete who has the physical dimensions and speed to thrive on either side of the football or even both. Enjoy this look at the “heir-apparent” to Calil McNary on the Storm playing field this coming Fall. Friday Night Fletch.

Doc Long is the Mingua Beef Jerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @1776Bank @williammlong @kyhighs @KyHighFootball

June 26, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

There are scores of “volunteers” who selflessly give of themselves for the benefit of the middle and high school programs across Kentucky. They never get any fanfare or recognition. Well, we thought we would change that today by recognizing the incredible contributions of “Doc Long,” Hopkinsville High School’s long-standing team physician from 1976-1996. Little late in coming; but, better late than never. Friday Night Fletch!

Collins (2020) & Long (2021) are “Double-Trouble” for Breathitt Opponents…

June 25, 2024 Henry Lyon 2

The two players we are featuring together in this article are two guys who both relocated to Jackson, Kentucky (as luck would have it) during this summer. Both of their parents found employment in the area and uprooted their respective families. The Collins family has long-standing ties to Breathitt County High School as the Collins boys prior to CA Collins all played at Breathitt. The Longs had never been to Jackson, Kentucky before finding employment in the area and deciding to locate there. It has worked out swimmingly for a team which no media outlet predicted would do much in 2019 but which is absolutely killing it with considerable contribution from the two guys who have (naturally) bonded. Individually they are “CA Collins” and “William Long” but together they spell Double-Trouble for Breathitt opponents.

Christian County’s Kolbe Langhi, Aces the Eye-Test

June 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Editor’s Note: We thought we would go back to 2017 in our Dead Period Time Machine and republish this piece we first published about a hot QB playing for an even hotter HS, 5A program (Christian County Colonels). We think the Colonels will surprise some people this coming season though […]

Owensboro (Sr.) High’s Austin Gough, Class of 2021, is the Independence Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week…

June 21, 2024 Henry Lyon 0

There is no better time than the present to anoint another Independence Bank player of the week. Independence Bank is proud to sponsor a weekly article highlighting players in the areas where Independence Bank flourishes who embody the same type of revolutionary service to their respective football teams which has made Independence Bank unique and special in the banking industry. This week’s recipient is a player who didn’t suit up last week, and we believe that to be a first for this particular award. Join us next week as we designate another worthy award winner.

Dylan Branson is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @DylanBranson91 @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @WoodfordFBall @AlPopsFootball @PrepRedzoneKY

June 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 2

Not all middle school players are equally constituted. Some arrive with high school, varsity ready frames to compete immediately. We would put Dylan Branson from Woodford County in that class. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Amonti Marshall from Bardstown is ready to make the senior year count! @Amonti07 @BardstownFootb1 @TTaylor_55 @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @1776Bank @KyHighFootball

June 18, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Bardstown High can sure develop some talent. Remember Tyleeq Williams from a year ago. He gained 1,834-yards and scored 20-rushing TDs. HIs backfield mate, Amonti Marshall had quite a year too. Marshall is back in ’24 for a final tour and early indications are he may have a Tyleeq-like impact. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Jackson Whitten from Bracken County emerging as a top target for many surrounding programs @Jackson Whitten2 @Nevels_Fitness @merz_max @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

June 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

’26 DL/QB getting tons of looks and offers Jackson Whitten is a 6’3,” 245-pounder who bench presses close to three-hundred, squats close to four-hundred, and power cleans a cool two plates (225-pounds). He has a 4.2 GPA and a registered 25 on his ACT. Bottom line; what’s not to like? […]

Jarvis Strickland, from Paducah Tilghman, is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week. @CoachJohn423 @supermax100 @NCEC_Recruiting @scoop1914 @coachthomp9 @pths_football @Coachjpatton @jarvisstrick14 @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

June 14, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Today we are thrilled to reward the play of perhaps the best OL prospect we have seen play anywhere in the commonwealth since we have been doing this. We are huge Jarvis Strickland fans. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Jeremiah Groves ready to take the reins of the football program @HopkinsCentral @_CoachManning @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @MaxPreps

June 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Jeremiah Groves is a guy who couldn’t be framed out much better. He is 6’3,” north of 200-pounds, and has a versatile skill set which has lent itself well to his contributing to the team in a variety of ways. Groves scored a TD receiving, logged a “scoop and score,” was among the team leaders in tackles and sacks. Enjoy this feature about a player in Morton’s Gap who will figure prominently in the program’s success in 2024. Friday Night Fletch.

Mak Hoover, ATH from ‘Mighty Mayfield’ High, is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @mak_hoover @blts_network @APHatchellMHS

June 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Mak Hoover is a 6’1,” 175-pound Athlete who plays receiver/SS in football and also stars in basketball and track. In an offseason where we have focused on versatility, this has been just another fine example of this attribute. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Bardstown has a Marshall at the controls- @Amonti07 @_K_Young14 @BardstownFootb1 @Coach_Dunn_ @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @1776Bank @KyHighFootball

June 11, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Amonti Marshall is among the more versatile athletes running a 4A football team anywhere in the commonwealth of Kentucky. In’23 he threw for nearly a thousand yards (953) and ran for nearly another (862) while being a defensive leader who contributed 9-TFLs and a pair of QB-sacks. He is a 315-pound presser and squats 410. Little wonder this 3.0-GPA student would run 40-yard dashes in 4.6-seconds flat. The Tigers have been preseason picked 5th in Kentucky 4A by NationsElite. Players like Marshall will do that for a coach every time. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch

Leelen Vanover, from Madison Southern High, is (likely) the best lineman in the KHSAA in its 2027 class @Leelen75 @Drake_Jackson52 @coachpayne64 @CoachHarpMS @FBCoachWolf @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

June 10, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Leelen Vanover has been judged one of Kentucky’s top five (5) OL in the high school game we would suppose. We believe it must be an overall ranking because we can’t fathom there being four other freshmen/rising sophomore linemen in Kentucky on par with Vanover. Vanover is 6’2,” 280-pounds of grown looking and he has a 4.0 GPA. He is getting Division-1 looks right now and that attention is only going to get more common and fierce as we move along his high school career. He can play any of the five (5) upfront slots along the offensive line. Enjoy this feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Ballard just another in a long line of Wolverine football stars @Zach_Ballard54 @CoachYong41 @WHHS_Football @CoachVanderpool @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

June 8, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Zach Ballard is a long, tall drink of water who plays DE mostly now but may thicken into an extremely mobile DT before his playing days are through. He is 6’5,” 225-pound, rail thin edge rushing specialist who plays a considerable amount of time in the opponent’s offensive backfield. If he’s going to be back there that much, might as well invite him into the huddle. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Demarcus (DJ) Wilson, from Paducah Tilghman High, is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @DJWilson_24 @Jarvisstrick14 @pths_football @jimmy_mooney23 @CouchStoutUTM @coachthomp9 @coachstarks25 @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

June 7, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

DJ (Demarcus) Wilson is a three sport, varsity athlete. In addition to being a RB/LB on he football team, he wrestles and runs track. He is the type versatile athlete we have been focusing on this offseason. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Sylas will be Gunn [ing] for folks this coming Fall @JoshGunn311 @SylasGunn @_CoachManning @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @HopkinsCentral @840WHAS

June 6, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Sylas Gunn has been among the more impressive athletes to compete in Western Kentucky sports in several years. The QB, SS, FS prospect can play baseball, basketball, football, and run track. For all we know, he may take up dressage and gymnastics next. This guy is poise to have a huge season upcoming. We will be pleased to monitor it. Friday Night Fletch.

Kalen Washington is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @KalenWashington @coachhawkins1 @bryanstationfb @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

June 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This is one of Kentucky’s very finest RBs in the ’25 graduating class. They call him “Jaws,” and he is a 3-star, nationally rated prospect in Rivals and 247Sports. He’s one more thing too, he is the Protein-packed Performer of the Week. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Carson Clark is a rising sophomore we believe will heavily contribute to the bottom line this coming Fall @CarsonClark08 @CooperFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

June 4, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Not all future stars got varsity run the year prior. This is even more true of young guys on 5A finalists who were, themselves, freshmen. We have young Carson Clark to feature today. While we can’t really report on anything he did (at the varsity level) in ’23; that doesn’t mean he won’t breakout in ’24. Matter of fact, we wouldn’t bet against him. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

They call him ‘Coen’ @Coen_Taylor2 @FCFlyerFootball @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

June 3, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Jacob Taylor is one of two “Taylors” on the Flyers’ roster. The Flyers, under Head Coach, Eddie James, has been among the more stocked and successful rosters at the 4A level of play. Jacob prefers to go by “Coen” and the 5’8,” 165-pounder carries a 4.0-GPA a believes in hear over height. His 45-receptions a year ago indicate his play backs up his hashtags rather well. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Peyton Collins from North Laurel still finding his stride @peyton_collins1 @npcombine @teeroyhowell @NLJAGSFOOTBALL @athletics_nlhs @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @PrepSpin @KyHighFootball @840WHAS

June 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Sometimes a player’s maturation lags behind the player’s frame. This is often true of young bigs who take some time to agile their way into their incredibly large, tall, and long frames. Peyton Collins has a frame which commands respect. With his nearly 7-foot wingspan, 6’7″ of height, and 280-pounds of heft, this guy figures to be among the more recruited linemen in the ’26 graduating class before all is said and done. We are looking for his PT to increase substantially this coming Fall. When his “man muscles and agility” arrives, look out! Friday Night Fletch.

North Hopkins RB, Marquezz Hightower, is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @markezz_25 @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @KanyonJohnson9 @All_American_Me @840WHAS

May 31, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Hightowers have established themselves as among the first families in western KY, HS football. Marquez is no different than big brother Jariah as both proved among the very best at RB in each of their respective classes. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Lincoln Acree, from Graves County High, is setting the football-world ablaze at Rivals, Atlanta and winning the Protein-packed Performer Award from @minguabeefjerky @Lincoln_Acree @GracieAcree @Jody_Acree @coach_debo @PrepSpin @KyHighFootball

May 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Lincoln Acree is listed as an ATH on many national sites which feature recruiting. Man is he ever an athlete. Acree is a ’25 guy who can play WR or Corner at the college level. He can play at any division collegiately too. He has been featured and has before won the Independence Bank Revolutionary Player so, in winning this award today, he has been awarded the KPGFootball “hat trick.” Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Middle School Spotlight: Jett Reynolds from Bowling Green among the best athletes, KY-wide, in the 2029 class @Jett_Reynolds3 @PurplesFootball @CoachNacarius @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @1776Bank

May 28, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

There have been famous “Jet(t)s” in popular culture. There are two Bennies among the number. Elton Johns’ Bennie and the Jets and the fictional character from “The Sandlot,” Benjamin Franklin “Benny the Jet” Rodriquez. Well we have added to the list with Jett Reynolds from Bowling Green Jr. High. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Middle School Spotlight: Jaxon Wells setting the pace for the 2029s @JaxonWellsfb @NorthPulaskiFB @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

May 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Jaxon Wells is a rising 8th-grader with an uncommonly large frame. He is freakishly strong, freakishly powerful, and freakishly explosive. He is also freakishly good at football. He will be among the most talked about 8th graders in the commonwealth this next Fall as his middle school program battles and contends for its 10th title at that level of play. Enjoy this middle school spotlight on the best two-way lineman se have to offer. Friday Night Fletch.

Carter Parsons, from Betsy Layne High, leading the Bobcats toward postseason glory @Real_CP1 @BLBobcatsFB @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 25, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Carter Parsons may be the crowned jewel of our offseason effort to feature versatile high school players. Parsons is a football star and a basketball star who already holds a basketball offer which may promise to pale in comparison to the football offers he is certain to receive. Enjoy this feature about a truly unique mountain athlete. Friday Night Fletch.

Logan Smith from Calloway is the Independence Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @LSmith2026 @CoachSmithJosh @CchsTouchdown @MissyJSmith1981 @minguabeefjerky @PrepSpin @840WHAS

May 24, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Logan Smith has established himself as a Western Kentucky All-Conference caliber player. With his speed and athleticism, there is no reason to not see him become an All-State caliber player. That 3.62-GPA is All-State, All-Day! Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: How fast does KJ Hayes hit the field for the Storm? @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @PrepSpin @KyHighFootball @MaxPreps @1776Bank @_CoachManning

May 23, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

It is getting time for the now former 8th graders to report to their varsity teams. The Storm, when opening camp, will certainly have some prime timers joining them from middle school looking for PT. KJ Hayes will be one of them. As the reigning KYMSFA, Region I, Division I, Player of the Year, it wouldn’t surprise many to see this kid in the lineup early in his HS career. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Jacob Savage, 2026 LB/RB/ATH from Ryle High School, is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the week @Ryle_Football @jacobsavage2125 @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Jacob Savage is one of a bevy of superstar LB’s in the ’26 class around Kentucky. Savage is so much more than just a LBer as he is among the top RBs on his team and receivers too. In an offseason where we have focused on versatility, this Savage cat is just right in line with the type talent on whom we have been focusing this offseason. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Bullitt Central High getting a kick (or punt) out of Peyton Hester @BullittFootball @thepeytonhester @Phase3Kicking @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KohlsHighlights @KohlsKicking

May 21, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

“He’s just a punter!” That sentiment will get you beat in a football game. It will literally cost you a championship one day, we promise. Football is a three (3) phase game and each of the three phases are critical and have to superlatively executed for any team to function at a high level. There have been three punters taken in the first round of the NFL draft. Ray Guy became the first punter ever selected in the first round of a National Football League draft when the Oakland Raiders tapped him as the 23rd player chosen in 1973. Punters are important. This one we are featuring here may be the best punter in his class (’27) across the commonwealth of Kentucky. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Kinnett Wills bent on making the Lakers ‘Mighty’ once more @kinnett_wills_ @RC_MightyLakers @WJRSRadio @Frenchie564 @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @1776Bank @KyHighFootball

May 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 3

Kinnett Wills led the team in receiving, receiving yards, scoring, INTs, and IRNYs. The team will be leaning heavily on him entering the ’24 Fall. They will need his athleticism, three-phase contributions, and his moxie if they are to turn things around under first year head man, Steven French. Enjoy this feature. Friday Night Fletch!

Brady Atwell from Owensboro Catholic is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @BradyAtwell5 @WKU_Baseball @2025Legends @OCath_Football @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Brady Atwell is no stranger to fame. He also is not stranger to this award, having before winning it in August of 2023. He enters ’24 the favorite to win Mr. Football. The contents of this feature should explain that. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: If Isaac brings what he can (physically) to the athletic table, it could me a long (Mc)Knight for Storm Opponents @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @PrepSpin @KyHighFootball @MaxPreps @1776Bank @_CoachManning

May 16, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Isaac McKnight is a freshman who played 3-games as a freshman in ’23. Notwithstanding the limited run, he still registered 7-tackles, a TFL, and a QB-sack. That is phenomenal, if we are being honest. His production would rocket in ’24. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Hunner Bealmear from Ballard Memorial High is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer @BBomberfootball @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 15, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We strive to find the stars across the Commonwealth. Some of these guys are on teams which struggle. Hunter Bealmear is a versatile athlete who contributes to multiple varsity sports at his high school in Barlow, Kentucky. Honoring him is only the right thing to do. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Kris Hughes is one Bad Bunny @krishughes2026 @BJNFBall @ClayClevenger @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 14, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Kris Hughes is one bad bunny. Matter of fact, we can’t find where we have before featured him and that is somewhat alarming to us. Hughes had a tremendous sophomore season for first-year head coach Clay Clevenger and he looks to have the Briar Jumpers back on the title track, if last year’s trip to the semis, and 10-4 finish, are any indication. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Dylan Lee, one of the best athletes playing football anywhere in Kentucky, has his Raiders thinking championship @DylanLee36 @Ryle_Football @RAIDERSPORTSNKY @unionraidersfb @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @MaxPreps @840WHAS

May 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Dylan Lee just finished his sophomore year. It would be difficult to imagine anyone having a better sophomore season than what we just witnessed out of Lee. He is a sprinter on the track team, plays basketball, and was a three-way contributor to a 6A ball club which made it all the way to the regional finals in Kentucky’s largest classification of competition. What will he do as a junior? Sky is literally the limit here. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Ethan Bowling from Breathitt High is the picture of versatility…and promise! @BreathittFb @BreathittCoach @miguabeefjerky @840WHAS @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @YaBoyHolcomb @CaseyAl62171239

May 11, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Ethan Bowling has been a “high energy guy” since coming out of the middle school ranks one of the better thought of prospects in the region at that level of play. He hasn’t disappointed in high school. Bowling is a two-way star along the Breathitt fronts and plays with the zeal which has transformed him into a fan favorite. Enjoy this feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Logan Smith from Calloway County is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @LSmith2026 @CoachSmithJosh @CchsTouchdown @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 10, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Logan Smith is rounding into the prospect we all felt he would morph into when we covered him in MS. We see nothing but a bright future in store for this prospect. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Sam Clements, dual threat QB and SS from George Rogers Clark High, is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @sclements1794 @chirico_joe @MatthewPCizek @GRCHS_Football @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 8, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Sam Clements is among the more versatile, dual-threat QBs playing in the 6A classification. He had a very solid ’23 which has landed the rising senior on quite a few recruiting boards. Clements is looking forward to a very solid ’24 to polish off what has been a fine HS career under center. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

The Most Productive ’27 in the KHSAA’s 2023 Fall Season ( Leron Jackson) May Not Have Been Who You Would Have Guessed- @IroquoisHSFB @IroquoisAD @IROQUOIS_HS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @CoachKMay

May 7, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Leron Jackson played for the worst team in 5A and perhaps all of Kentucky. The Raiders played 11-games and got drilled 11-times. The Raiders “high water” mark for the year was dropping a game to Trimble County on September 22 by three TDs. That doesn’t mean Keith May doesn’t have some great players in the “hopper.” Matter of fact, Coach May may (pardon the pun) be developing ’27’s premier LB and perhaps its best player at any position. His name is Leron Jackson and he had quite the freshman season. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Rohan Taylor from Henry Clay High (Lexington) returns to attempt to negotiate out of the 7th-District cellar @HCHSDevilsFB @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @HCHS_Athletics @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 6, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Rohan Taylor returns at QB for a high school which traces its roots back to the first four-room public school built in Lexington. Taylor threw for nearly 1,000 yards and led the team in passing during a ’23 season which would experience an 0-11 work-slate with only one outcome, the 20-18 loss in the opener to Fleming County, in question. Obviously the play must improve and drastically. Is Taylor the man to lead this team through the wilderness? We think so. Enjoy this feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Waylon Abner from Breathitt reminds us of Alan Faneca (Steelers) @BreathittFb @BreathittCoach @miguabeefjerky @840WHAS @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @YaBoyHolcomb @CaseyAl62171239

May 3, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Waylon Abner is a member of one of the best units playing Kentucky football at the HS level, the “Big Blue Wave.” The “Big Blue Wave” is the OL for the Breathitt Bobcats. Sawyer Hall gets the majority of press but perhaps some of us might want to watch Waylon Abner. Abner is a ferocious pulling guard who may be the best at that discipline than any other guard or interior guy in the KHSAA. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Tyler Kautzman, from Webster County High, is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @minguabeefjerky @WebCoFootball @Wchs_Athletic @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 3, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This guys was third on the team in rushing yards, was among the leaders in scoring, and led the team in several important and critical defensive categories. In addition to all of that, he is a first-rate powerlifter and star on the varsity baseball team. This Tyler Kautzman-cat can flat play. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Cruz Cavanaugh getting ready to ‘put it all together’ in ’24 @cruz_cavanaugh5 @_CoachManning @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @HopkinsCentral @840WHAS

May 2, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We featured this guy a year ago, in June of ’23. It was our prediction he would crack the lineup sometime over his freshman season. Well, he got in a game but didn’t exactly crack the lineup. There has been some graduation attrition since then and he seems assured of getting plenty of PT over the course of his upcoming sophomore season. Enjoy this look at Central’s Cruz Cavanaugh. Friday Night Fletch.

Waryn Ebelhar from Owensboro Catholic is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @Muster_JW @EbelharWaryn @BradyAtwell5 @OCAth_Football @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

May 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have been featuring versatility this offseason. Today, we bring you a WR/CB who is also a star in basketball. Waryn Ebelhar had quite a junior season and, with the top two receivers out of eligibility, he should flourish as the top QB’s number one down field target in Kentucky’s most prolific passing offense maybe in the history of the KHSAA. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Kalen Washington can be scarier than the 1975 thriller…ask some of the defenses attempting to contain him @KalenWashington @coachhawkins1 @bryanstationfb @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 30, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

They have called Kalen Washington “Jaws” since middle school. He has terrorized the football community with the same ferocity as the great white terrorized movie screens in the mid-70s. You can almost hear the music alerting the viewer to the presence of the menace. Opposing defensive linemen can certainly commiserate as can second and third level guys. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

The Knights should be alright as long as there are some Wasiks lingering @BradyWasik @WasikJackson @CentreFootball @LexCathFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @N_Baisch42

April 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Brady Wasik is a ’26 kid whose big brother was one Hell of a QB for the Knights over his career. Centre College, probably the most prestigious small college offer a Kentucky kid can possibly fetch, has taken the older Wasik (Jackson). Can the Colonels pick up a commitment from Brady too? Here’s to hoping…Friday Night Fletch.

Sawyer Hall, Another ‘Bo Wolford-type’ in the ’26 class @SawyerHall19 @CaseyAI62171239 @BreathittFb @wolford_bo @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Sawyer Hall and Bo Wolford are universally considered among the best five or so interior OL in all of Kentucky’s ’26 class. The two of them have many similarities, all but the heights and length. Both of these guys move a considerable amount of weight in the weight room and both of them dominate defensive linemen every single snap. The two of them are good friends to boot. Enjoy the feature about Sawyer Hall. Friday Night Fletch.

Isaac Manning is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @_CoachManning @HopkinsCentral @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @JoshGunn311

April 26, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Isaac Manning figures the be “The Man” on the Storm’s roster for ’24. He was a multi-phase contributor in ’23 and has one of the more dynamic skill-sets on this end of Kentucky playing 3A football. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Zane Cook from ‘Mighty Mayfield’ is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @Zane_Cook56 @mhscoachjoe @CortBraswell @CoachJBrandon @OLBeastCoach03 @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 24, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Zane Cook reminds us of an interior OL who doubled along the defensive front and has played defensively in college at prestigious Centre College. We are talking of the two-way, All-Stater, William Long formerly from Breathitt, which was also a 2A ball club. Cook’s QB from last season, Zane Cartwright has just inked with the Colonels. This guy here is a freaking football playing Jesse. Enjoy the feature. You will be hearing much more about him before it is all said and done. Friday Night Fletch.

Braxton Blackburn promises the Betsy Layne Bobcats will challenge for 2A supremacy, particularly in the Appalachias @BraxtonBlakbu3 @BLBobcatsFB @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

April 23, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

There was a Blackburn kid who played at Paintsville High a few years back who was a fine player and a monster of a man. We have no idea of this particular Blackburn and he are related. However, we can confidently say the two of them share certain physical characteristics. This Blackburn (Braxton) is 6’3,” 275-pounds and sufficiently mobile to be a second level defender and the top returning tackler to the Bobcat defense. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Baron Hardesty, Leading the Charge(rs) Among 2026 Defenders @BECoachKendrick @BE_Chargers @hardesty_baron @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Byron Hardesty is entering the Fall the 2nd ranked DE/LB prospect in Kentucky’s 2026 KHSAA class. He plays at a program which has emerged as a top outfit in Kentucky 6A not too far removed from a KHSAA title (2022). Talent like Hardesty ensures the Chargers are finished chasing additional championships. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Brady Steward from Union County Middle brought his A-game to the Battle of the Regions @UCBraves @ucms_indians @UCHSathletics @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

April 20, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Battle of the Regions was last month and the Future Stars will be coming up this summer. This is the time of year we learn there are some middle school ballers across Kentucky doing some incredible things. Brady Steward is a ’29 QB about whom plenty will be written before his high school years have been exhausted. Enjoy this feature about one of Kentucky’s best at this grade level. Friday Night Fletch.

Simon Rickman from Murray High is the Independence Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @simon_rickman10 @MurrayTigerFB @murrayhighFB @Dickerson_Coach @1776Bank @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS

April 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Simon Rickman from Murray High is among the more accomplished defensive second level defenders in the Western Kentucky Conference (WKC). He made all conference a year ago and made All-State on the list of one of the major publications covering the commonwealth. We believe you will see him much more on offensive this coming season. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Kamran Harrison will be a junior in 2024 and there is a level of excellence expected from ‘Harrisons’ @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @PrepSpin @KyHighFootball @MaxPreps @1776Bank @_CoachManning

April 18, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Kamran Harrison is the little brother of a Storm player who fully demonstrated his wares as a varsity football player. Kamran is outstanding and versatile like big brother. He runs track, power lifts, and contributed greatly to the finished product on the field in ’23 while just a sophomore. What will he do as a junior? It just may be mind boggling. Friday Night Fletch.

Nick Osborne from Bethlehem High is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @N1ck_Osborne5 @HC_TimMattingly @BethlehemAthle1 @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Nick Osborne has taken versatility to new heights around our offices. This guy was among the leading receivers, rushers, and defenders for his football team in ’23. Osborne was the school’s leading scorer and among the leaders in FT % and rebounds in basketball. Heck, this guy is on the golf team. Is there anything he can’t do? Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Timmy Emongo is a three phase contributor on a 5A roster and a ’27 superstar @TimmyEmongo9 @ScottCoSports @cards_football @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

April 16, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Timmy Emongo may have been the best freshman in Kentucky in ’23. How many freshmen on nine-win, 5A ball clubs are among the team’s leading rushers, leading scorers, and housing both kick-returns and pick-sixes. Not too many. Enjoy this feature about a sprint champion who is stockpiling offers to play collegiate football as you read this article. Friday Night Fletch.

Devin Clayton, you heard the name first, right here! @CountyColonels @PureGradeA @CoachAtchley @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

April 15, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We pride ourselves on the ability to locate Kentucky-wide talent prior to anyone else. We are able to do this because we don’t wait on these prospects to attend our combine. We are out in Kentucky, with boots on the ground, where these guys live. Well here is a ’28 guy who has an FBS frae right now and he is still in 8th-grade. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Aiden Jesse ready to grasp his role among the former Jesse greats to have come along before him @CoachAtchley @ColonelFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Aiden Jesse come from a pipeline of receiver prospects. His dad was a star WR for the Hoptown Tigers in the 90s, his brother left Hoptown its all-time leading WR, and Aiden has been doing his thing, though sparingly, as he is just a ’26 player. There is a new Sheriff in town coaching the Colonels in head man, Ethan Athchley, and his brand of offense will produce more passing production which will result in more targets for young Jesse. If we peer into the crystal ball, and consider what the Jesses have done before him, predicting he is about to “go off” really isn’t much of a stretch. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Jeremiah Jones is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week and may be the highest regarded recruit in the KHSAA for 2025 @MurrayTigers @MurrayTigerFB @murrayhigh @MLT_Sports @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Jeremiah Jones is among the finest athletes competing in the KHSAA in his or any class. He already holds several Power 5 offers and is rated as high as 3rd, overall, among Kentucky ’25s and 580th across the country in his graduating class. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Micheal Gossett is throwing his hat in the ring for the title, “World’s Most Famous Gossett”

April 11, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Michael Gossett is a freshman RB/FB who didn’t get any varsity run in ’23 but figures to get quite a bit of PT in ’24 owing to the graduation of two-time, All-State FB, Calil McNary. Gossett, a ’27, may also put his name in nomination for the world’s most famous person named, “Gossett,” and that competition is a bit stiffer than you may realize. Enjoy this edition of “Storm Warning.”

Travis Moten from Fern Creek (Louisville) is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-performer of the Week @travismoten2025 @CoachJoshAbell @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

April 10, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Travis Moten may be the premier DL in Kentucky’s ’25 class. He had 83-tackles, 17.5-TFLs, 10.5-QB sacks, a FF, 2-FRs over his junior year and the 6’5,” DL has already been offered by EKU. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Diego Torres from Mayfield High is set to explode onto the KHSAA scene @Diego_Torres78 @APHatchelMHS @mhscoachjoe @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

April 9, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This isn’t the story of a simple friar who became the patron saint of one of the larger metropolitan areas in the state of California. Ours is a story about a simple sophomore who entrenched himself in the lineup of the most storied and successful 2A football program on the western end of Kentucky. We hope you like our story as well as the other one. Friday Night Fletch.

Xavier Burks from Fairdale High is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @CoachJoshAbell @JCPSKY @Xavierburks2007 @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS

April 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Xavier Burks is a ’25 RB who gained close to a 1,000-yards in ’23. In addition to that he was a defensive leader who was among the top tacklers, top TFL-guys, and top sack-artists. Talk about your versatility. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Charles (Dylan) Beringer hoping to make the surname famous for more than wine @beringervyds @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @HopkinsCentral @KyHighFootball

April 4, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have been focusing on versatility this offseason and Charles “Dylan” Beringer fits that bill. Beringer plays along the OL and the DL and appears to run track and cross country. He may be called upon to contribute mightily in ’24 along the varsity lines of scrimmage. Let’s see if he will be up to that challenge. Friday Night Fletch.

Sawyer Hall is the Mingua Beef Jerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @SawyerHall19 @BreathittFb @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

April 3, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Those of us who follow this sport, KHSAA football, have been hearing about the Sawyer Hall-types for years. These guys come up from the middle school ranks being talked about as “plug-in and play” guys. That is what Hall has been. He may be one of those again in college, we shall see. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Keagan Maher aiming higher, bent on excellence, in it for the team @KeaganMaher @danrmaher @CooperFootball @AustinSchaffer2 @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

April 2, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We don’t run across athletes at the high school level who run 4.43-second, 40-yard dashes, 4.01-second pro-agility shuttles, or 6.72-second, three-cone drills. We certainly don’t see too many 37-inch verticals and 9.1-feet broad jumps out of 5’8″ sophomores. When this type dynamic athleticism is encountered it should be featured. So, here you go. Friday Night Fletch.

Ethan Pittman demonstrating excellent line play in football is a family tradition @Noah_Pittman55 @EthanPittman52 @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 30, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Those Pittman brothers from Monticello, Kentucky sure are tough customers. Big brother Noah, ’24, just signed to play college ball with the University of the Cumberlands and Ethan just finished his sophomore season as a two-way stalwart for Coach Tyler Guffey’s Cardinals. Enjoy this look at another Pittman headed somewhere on a ride for college when this HS eligibility exhausts. Friday Night Fletch.

Colton Veltkamp, ’25 WR/LB, from South Warren is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @ColtonVeltkamp @Coach_Helton @DavisMerritt @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @WarrenCoSchools @SouthWarrenFB

March 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This prospect has a brother named Caden who showed in Western KY’s bowl game, a year ago, he was nothing at which to sneeze. That particular Veltkamp looks to be headed to the portal, or maybe has already shipped out; we don’t know, we cover the high school game. This Veltkamp is a freaking football player and plenty versatile. He will challenge for “Mr. Football” next season and will likely be the district, region, and maybe even classification’s “Player of the Year.” Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Jamey Lee Patterson from Lexington Christian Academy is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @1776Bank @jleepatt25 @CoachDCharles @Oakley_Watkins @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

March 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have been featuring versatility this offseason and we have one for you hear. This guy plays LB,G in football as a two-way guy, wrestles, and is a middle infielder, third-baseman, outfielder, right-handed pitcher on the varsity baseball team. He also is a member of the 1,000-pound club in the weight room and all of this while having just completed his sophomore season on Kentucky’s deepest roster. If there was ever anyone deserving of some beef jerky, this guy would have to be it. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Prospects vs. “Friday Nighters;” Josiah Hope from North Hardin is quite a prospect- @AthleticsNHHS @JosiahHope6 @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @840WHAS

March 26, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Josiah Hope played on a roster which “officially” posted a 1-10 in ’23 notwithstanding its having two “Power Fives” in its lineup. Well, most of the “Ls” were actually “Ws” turned by forfeit for self-reported violations, so don’t cry for North Hardin quite yet. Either way, the Trojans boast another top-flight, in-KY guy that the “big boys” are clamoring to impress and recruit. This feature will help you understand what makes a player a prospect and not just an outstanding Friday Nighter. Friday Night Fletch.

Landon Walton has plenty of size, power, strength and versatility @LandonWalton71 @CoachFields01 @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

March 25, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Line play can be hard to evaluate. When evaluating linemen, as the offensive variety really don’t have much in the way of statistics beyond “games played” and “pancakes” (if the team keeps such a statistic and not all do), one often has to look for characteristics of line dominance in making a decision regarding who to offer. Strength, power, feet agility, balance, speed, spacial quickness, hand quickness, punching power are all examples of characteristics sought. Enjoy this look at an under the radar lineman programs would do well to research thoroughly. Friday Night Fletch.

Will THEREALMALIK [Butler], please stand up! @Malikbutler23 @FSFootball @FSHSathletics @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 23, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Malik Butler’s handle on Twitter is “THEREALMALIK.” Anyone who was a fan of syndicated game shows, or shows they may be old enough to remember in primetime, should remember the television show, “To Tell the Truth.” Well Franklin-Simpson’s Malik Butler is the truth and he is here to tell it. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletcher.

Kanyon Johnson is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week. @all_ameerican_me @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @KanyonJohnson9

March 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Kanyon Johnson is an athlete playing football in the KHSAA to whom people ascribe almost mythical feats of athleticism. We have seen him perform some of these feats and can attest to the truth comprising the legend. Still, this guy is a “hard take” if you’re coaching college football in or around the Bluegrass. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Mason Stephens from Letcher County is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @CoachMikeHarris @LarryPerrin @RecruitTheHerd @MasonS3324 @LCCougarSports @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 20, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have been featuring versatility this offseason. It is also time to step away from the seniors graduating this semester and focus on the younger talent coming down the pipeline. Today, we focus on one of the mountain’s better ‘27s in Letcher County’s Mason Stephens. Stephens is a defensive back third guy who figures to play more and more this coming season split out wide on offense. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Christian County’s Coach Atchley plucks assistant from off the Trinity Shamrock staff @ToddGreenwell2 @ColonelFootball @CoachAtchley @Minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball

March 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Colonels continue to amass a coaching staff which is the marvel of many around the western part of Kentucky. Coach Greenwell will be using technology to improve individual, team, and staff performance. He’s been doing it at Trinity High and they seem to be doing alright. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Chances the Bulldogs ever suffer through another year as perplexing as 2023? Not likely, with Gavin Johnson in the lineup- @Gjohnson1418 @coach_chandler @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 18, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Football is just different in the Appalachia Mountains. First of all, football is the primary sport in that part of Kentucky and doesn’t pay “second fiddle” to basketball. They also routinely produce Gavin Johnson types who are ready to contribute early in their careers. Enjoy this feature about one of Kentucky’s better ’27 prospects. Friday Night Fletch.

Brooks Kerwin at LCA is our @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Year @BrooksKerwin55 @Oakley_Watkins @CoachDCharles @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

March 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Brooks Kerwin is the total package. He is 6’3,” 275-pounds with a 4.33 GPA and a 26 on his ACT. Kerwin is a can’t miss prospect and has started every game for the previous two years in a pass-heavy offense without allowing a single sack. He is relentless, polished, athletic, and our Mingua Beef Jerky Protein-packed Performer. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Breaking News Story: CCHS brings back Greg Abren; Atchley continues commitment to adding former Colonels to staff @ColonelFootball @CoachAtchley @ThinLizzy_ @840WHAS @1776Bank @minguabeefjerky @Christian_Co270

March 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Coach Atchley continues to add to his staff at Christian County as the two area high schools march toward consolidation. The new Colonel head man appears bent on bring back on staff coaches from the not too distant past who remember what a championship caliber program resembles. Getting back Greg Abren goes a way towards bring back the program’s swag. Friday Night Fletch.

The rich get richer… @CroweDereon @OCath_Football @SrHighFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 12, 2024 Fletcher Long 2

When last we heard, Catholic was going to have the Devil of a time holding on to its Mr. Football candidate at QB, Brady Atwell. It appears Owensboro Catholic has weathered the storm there. Truthfully, they did a little better than just weather that storm. They have added some big-time 2nd level talent from nearby Owensboro Senior High, Dereon Crowe. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Zach Jordan using his length and great feet to create outside running lanes and protect his QB… @ZachJordan2026 @BgBadBoyz @PurplesFootball @KyHighFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 9, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Zach Jordan is among the most impressive OL in Kentucky in the ’26 graduating class. He has a long, thin frame which can easily add bulk without impacting his movement. He played all year along a front which facilitated one of Kentucky’s premier offensive attacks. This guy has a championship ring on his finger right now. Who knows what the future holds? Friday Night Fletch.

Jamarion Gardner is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @RVKFootball @Coach_MikeB @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS

March 8, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Russellville is a program we are accustomed to watching thrive. It wasn’t too many years ago the Panthers were taking Pikeville to the wire in the 1A title game on Kroger Field on the campus of UK. The Panthers limped through a tough season but showed some promise as young players filled spots one usually see filled by young guys. Bodes well for the future. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Mr. Jones and me; [C]ounting [C]rows until the 2024 season finally arrives @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

March 7, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

The Counting Crows recorded a huge hit entitled “Mr. Jones” in 1993. We wonder if Jaiden Jones has ever heard the song. It is about two guys with dreams and how they can realize those dreams. Jaiden Jones dreams of running out under the Friday Night Lights. Time to make those dreams a reality. Friday Night Fletch.

Bo Wolford, ’26 OL from Belfry High, is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @wolford_bo @BelfryFootball1 @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 6, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Bo Wolford in one of the best offensive linemen in the commonwealth of Kentucky playing HS football today. The 6’3,” 280-pounder bench presses three plates, squats 500-pounds and moves meat around a football field like a bull dozer. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Alexander Daniel (Zander) is Walking Tall in Nicholasville, Kentucky @eastjagsFB @minguabeefjerky @KyHighFootball @MaxPreps @1776Bank @840WHAS

March 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Alexander Daniel is similarly shaped as the famous sheriff from Selmer, Tennessee named Bufford Pusser. Pusser was 6’6,” and Daniel is only (presently) 6’3,” but there is nothing to say Daniel’s frame won’t equal or even exceed that of the former McNairy County sheriff and subject of the 1973 feature film, “Walking Tall.” Both of these men Walk mighty tall for sure. Enjoy this feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Kahmani Bush from Trigg County a versatile athlete looking to land- @Kahmanikhari @CoachEzell45 @TriggFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball @CentreFootball

March 4, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Recruiting for the small college programs is far from over at this point. Because of that, we fear there are some programs overlooking some bone fide athletic talent through the commonwealth still on the “available” list. Kahmani Bush would certainly qualify. Here is a chance for a difference making late addition to any program’s recruiting list. You’ll thank me later. Friday Night Fletch.

Aden Bolden is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @MCHSCoach @AdenBolden @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @MaxPreps @KyHighFootball

March 1, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Aden Bolden is a prime example why there is some superior coaching going on in Calhoun, Kentucky. Bolden is a ’26 kid who is plenty athletic and outstandingly versatile and productive. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Players like Mattox Allen readying for their shot @HopkinsCentral @_CoachManning @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @1776Bank

February 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

This guy has a Hudl page but no highlights. Doing an exhaustive search for him online we came away with nothing. This guy needs a feature just to give him some online identity. We hear Mattox Allen is a good-looking athlete with plenty of skill set to find the field over the course of his sophomore season. Enjoy this look at another fine football player on the Hopkins County Central roster. Friday Night Fletch.

Daugherty returns as an Ace in the hole for 2024 and is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the week @1776Bank @840WHAS @ECHS_Wildcats

February 28, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have been featuring versatility this offseason. No one is any more versatile than Edmondson County’s Ace Daugherty. This guy long snaps and plays primary positions very well too. How many long-snappers are also the fourth leading rusher, or among the club leader in tackles, TFLs, and QB-sacks? Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Vazzana is a ’25 RB about to take flight @jeffrey_vazzana @centurions_fb @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

February 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Grantland Rice once extolled the virtues of four Notre Dame football players he dubbed “The Four Horsemen.” Christian Academy had its own four horsemen in ’23 and they rode them to the title. Two of the four are walking the graduation stage leaving the other two behind. One of those will be RB, Jeffrey Vazzana, and he will be very good next season. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Trevy Barber is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @purplesfootball @CoachSpader @BarberTrevy @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS

February 23, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Trevy Barber is the most productive player at his position anywhere throughout the commonwealth of Kentucky. He was a sophomore in ’23 but that didn’t stop him from registering 84-catches, 16-of which went for TDs, for over a thousand yards (1,189). Get this, the kid also housed a kick. What a jewel for this or any roster. Enjoy this look at this superior WR/ATH in the 5A classification and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Dalton Matney from Johnson Central is an apple which didn’t fall far from its tree… @dalton_matney21 @JCAthletics_ @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball

February 20, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

We have noticed kids of sports stars often star in the same sport and, many times, to an even greater degree. Dalton Matney is a rising junior coming off a fantastic sophomore year who looks poised to come into his own. However, he is the son of the late, great Jim Matney and those are hard shoes to attempt to fill. Coach would be very proud of how his son has competed and comported himself to this point. Enjoy the feature.

Next up for the Centurions, Colin Daniels @ColinHd2007 @centurions_fb @THunterCantwell @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

February 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

How does a high school program such as 2X defending 3A champion, CAL, replace a QB with over 4,000-yards passing in ’23 and 55-TDs against only 7-picks? How about with a 6’5,” 210 pound rising junior who is a varsity athlete in both football and basketball (just like a taller version of Hodge)! Yeah, that’ll do it. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

New CCHS Coach, Ethan Atchley, will NOT find the cupboard barren, not while there are some [Jimmarion] Byrd[s] flying around @CoachAtchley @ColonelFootball @1776Bank @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS

February 17, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

We attended the Atchley presser. He is an impressive guy and will turn that program around lickety-split. He has some material left over around whom to build. One of those “Dude” is a “Byrd.” Jimmarion Byrd is a ’26 guy who has plus size, plus athleticism, and plus hostility and feel for the game. Jimmarion plays angrily, like anyone would want from a LB/Edge guy. Enjoy the feature and get ready for the Atchley Show. Friday Night Fletch.

Steve Smith, ’25 QB from Central High, is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week @CoachDantzler @Steve2mith @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky

February 16, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Louisville’s Central High enjoys yearly consideration among the best teams in football at its level of play. QBs like Steve Smith coming off strong junior campaigns has a lot to do with that. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Jeremiah Groves will springboard a fine sophomore season into a huge Junior year @HopkinsCentral @_CoachManning @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @MaxPreps @PrepSpin @logan_rodgers_ @840WHAS

February 15, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We have been covering the Hopkins County Central this offseason. Frankly, it is a fun cover. For starters, they are among the more up and coming programs in the 3A classification on the western end of Kentucky. Secondly, the Storm compete in an ultra competitive district stocked with good teams and high profile coaches and players. Enjoy this look at a young player we believe will factor mightily in the Storm’s prospects this coming Fall. Friday Night Fletch.

Kadence Price is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @All_American_Me @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

February 14, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Kadence Price is a big, big boy and the son of a grown man who played at WKU himself back in the day. This is Chris Price’s son and even a cursory look at the kid reveals quite a resemblance. Young Price was the runner-up in the 250-pound weight class this past weekend at the 41st Kentucky HS Powerlifting Championships. If that isn’t worth some beef jerky we dare say we don’t know what is. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Camden [James] is just another in a long line of notable people named “Burke” @CamdenBurke77 @Coach_Couch_MC @Coachwb3 @C_Chap_SC @tm_squared @MCentral_FB @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

February 13, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

’26 OL proving among the best in ’26 class Camden James Burke is 6’3,” and weighs 275-pounds. He got eight (8) games of run on the varsity as a sophomore playing 6A football and was derailed (by injury) from playing even more. Burke was among the club leaders in “pancake” […]

Drew Johnson from Owensboro (Senior High) is from a winning pedigree and has a proven record of success stemming generations… @EliHampton11 @SrHighFootball @TrevorDeLacey @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

February 10, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Pedigree may not mean everything when it comes to football but it isn’t meaningless either. We see this with the inordinate amount of former players’ sons and coaches’ sons who go on to star at the various levels of football competition from HS to the NFL. Coming from generations of people accustomed to winning at life pay dividends too, HS coaches tell us. Enjoy this feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Trevor DeLacey from Owensboro (Senior) High is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week (again) @TrevorDeLacey @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky

February 9, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Trevor is a QB prospect that “QB-Hit List” believes has it all. The nationally circulated QB evaluator touts DeLacey’s accuracy, arm strength, release, his ability to throw on the run, his footwork, his ability to play with poise, and his pocket presence. Trevor has top-shelf decision making and throws the deep ball with tremendous touch. Enjoy this look at this superior QB in the 5A classification and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: McDaniel Ready to Lead the Defense- @Michael60053670 @_Elite3 @Coach_Lovely @_CoachManning @evans02_mike @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @KyHighFootball @PrepSpin @MaxPreps @840WHAS

February 8, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Michael McDaniel is a player we have before featured. He is a ’25 prospect who had an enviable frame and good length (6’1,” 195-pounds). He is a versatile athlete who also plays varsity basketball. He fits with our practice this offseason of featuring versatile athletes who are multi-phase contributors or who play a variety of varsity sports. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Austyn is laying down the Law[less] and winning the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer along the way. @austynlawless @BJNFBall @ClayClevenger @18_hatcher @drew_toennies @1776Bank @840WHAS

February 7, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Austyn Lawless is one of ’27s most prolific performers. How many freshmen linebackers can boast of registering more than 100-tackles, 16-TFLs, and 6-sacks while carrying a 4.0 GPA. We wouldn’t think the number would be very big if we are being honest. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch.

Khalil White promises sunnier skies are on the Lincoln County horizon @khalilwhiteee @KyHighFootball @KYEXPOSURE @12thSports @LCFB_Recruiting

February 6, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Khalil White is a ’25 DE/TE with the frame colleges like to see. He is 6’3,” 200-pounds with plenty of length and the frame to add quite a bit of “good weight” this offseason. White has seen most of his action of defense but that could well change over the course of his senior season depending on what the Patriots need. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

The name, Spacek, often equals talent and hard work @AshbySpacek @drew_toennies @mhscoachjoe @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS

February 5, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We expect a champions effort out of anyone representing Mayfield High and particularly if that person is named “Spacek.” There is a lot in a name we have come to believe. Ashby Spacek, ’25 center/tackle, will enter his senior campaign one of the more reliable, gifted, and physically imposing interior OL guys in the KHSAA. Let’s see if he lives up to the name. We are sure he will. Friday Night Fletch.

Dalton Gambrel is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the Week @DaltonGambrel3 @1776Bank @840WHAS @EminenceFball

January 31, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Dalton Gambrel is a ’24 guy who contributed mightily to his team’s bottom line in ’23. He was rewarded by being Honorably Mentioned on the Courier-Journal’s All-State Football team. This guy was also a fine defender and contributed on special teams in addition to what he did at receiver. Enjoy this feature and and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor of the country’s very finest beef jerky products. Friday Night Fletch.

Breaking News Story: Christian County High Makes Statement Hire in Ethan Atchley

January 30, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Ethan Atchley is known throughout Kentucky as a program builder and a football coaching savant. Now he is known as Christian County High’s new football coach. Atchley brings a proven track record of developing college ready talent, winning and competing for championships, and building programs, which have been struggling, to commonwealth-wide prominence. This is a home-run hire for the Colonels. Friday Night Fletch.

Hold this Tiger! Gage Chapman from Murray High promises big future performance. @Chapman42071 @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @MurrayTigerFB

January 29, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Gage Chapman is a ’27 kid who is getting it done in the weight room. However, it needs to translate to the field and we saw glimpses of it doing just that in ’23. I will be perfectly honest here; I am a little surprised this kid didn’t play more over the course of the ’23 season. Every time his number was called, he did something great. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Tanner is looking for the [W]right time to get back into football @Tanner_Gage22 @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

January 27, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Tanner Wright is a guy who has been out of football, according to him, for a year. Guess what, he misses it. Football is a game one can only play when young. While Tanner is still young, he has decided to get back into a game he thinks he may have quit too early. Enjoy this feature. If you’re a college program looking to add some quality help at RB, call his number listed on his “X” page. Friday Night Fletch.

Davon Rudolph looking for programs who want this Smoke! Rudolph is the Independence Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week… @Davon_Rudolph9 @_thomas_jenkins @Coach_RJG @CoachPalmer @Coach_Jay53 @Coach_Snuggs @1776Bank @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS

January 26, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Davon Rudolph isn’t just nicknamed “Smoke,” he’s the truth. Rudolph was Ballard High’s Nickel/OLB and man; was he productive in ’23. He’s looking for a college home and that search should NOT require too much. Enjoy this feature and don’t forget to get by your local Independence Bank and discover why and how our people, financial products, and services have started a revolution in the Kentucky banking industry. Friday Night Fletch.

Storm Warning: Clayton Scott may be appearing from thin air in the middle of the offensive front for The Storm in 2024- @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @PennyrileP

January 25, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Hopkins County Central is serious about publicizing the talent on its roster. That is why we have been engaged to write these articles. This young man here is an example of the young roster talent being developed in Morton’s Gap. This is a program headed in the right direction. Enjoy this feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Michael Curry from The Big A Train (Atherton) is the @minguabeefjerky Protein-packed Performer of the week- @courierjournal @MichealCurryJr @CoachNinoDBE323 @AthertonFootbal #KnowAGuyWhenUSee1 @840WHAS

January 24, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Michael Curry Jr. only played in seven (7) games in ’23 but he really played in those seven. He gained 1,124-yards on 134-carries, for 8.4 ypc, with 17-rushing TDs. He is a 3.8 student with a very bright future. Enjoythis feature and don’t forget to #SavorTheFlavor. Friday Night Fletch

DeMarkus ‘D.J.’ Wilson a 3-sport problem for future Tilghman opponents @DJWilson_24pt @coachthomp9 @pths_football @840WHAS @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

January 23, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

Paducah Tilghman is loaded with athletes. With Kentucky’s top-rated Track & Field program, they are also loaded with speed. D.J. Wilson is one of the class of ’26’s top guys in the offensive backfield. Already a thousand yard rusher in his sophomore season, Paducah fans are excited about what this young man may develop into being. We think he is headed for a position among the more recruited athletes in his graduating class. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Kelson McKinney from Green County one of the better all-around football players in Kentucky @KelsonMckinney4 @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @green_county @ColtPhelps1

January 22, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

It is hard to imagine any one football player meaning as much to his team’s bottom line as Kelson McKinney did over the course of his high school career. McKinney was the team’s leading rusher, leading scorer, was a scoring threat on special teams and on defense where he was tied for the lead in “pick-sixes.” We are coming close to the end of our coverage for the Kentucky class of ’24 but we couldn’t leave the topic without an article about this guy. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Alexander the Great[er]! @AAlexander2025 @LemmingReport @Vol_Football @840WHAS @UKFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank

January 20, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We call him “Alexander the Great” and he may not have an empire stretching from the Balkans to the modern-day Pakistan, but the original Alexander didn’t register 19-QB sacks in a single season or wrack up over 1,000-yards receiving. Who was greater? Well, right now one of the Alexanders is still writing his life’s story. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.

Parker Friedman (2025) from duPont Manual is the @1776Bank Revolutionary Player of the Week- @minguabeefjerky @840WHAS @sports_cj @friedman_parker @ManualAthletics @duPontFootball

January 19, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We believe in the special teams at KPGFootball and at Independence Bank. It is one-third of a football game and deserves to be highlight like the other two phases. This guy here was our all-state kicker. Enjoy the feature and get on by your local Independence Bank and enjoy the people, product, and services which have revolutionized the Kentucky banking industry! Friday Night Fletch.

Bonus Coverage: @CentreFootball sets sights on Nashville’s JT Robbins… @_NCSathletics @williammlong @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @_Elite3

January 18, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

We feature out of Kentucky talent when that talent is being recruited to Kentucky college programs. Hey, we are fans of the colleges and universities fielding football teams across Kentucky, as are our advertisers, so why not? This kid here is high on the Centre wish list and already holds numerous offers at prestigious schools for his services. Can the Colonels land this guy? We hope so.

Storm Warning: Opponents better look out for that ‘Crick’ in their collective necks- @HopkinsCentral @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @PennyrileP

January 18, 2024 Fletcher Long 0

The Storm have been dad-burn effective running the football of late. One reason is the bruising, All-State FB the team has enjoyed over the last four years. Another is having young linemen coming through the pipe line like ’25’s Hayden Crick. Enjoy this look at a kid who should anchor ’24’s offensive front. Friday Night Fletch.

Tyson Martin, a 2026 RB/LB, leading his classification in several statistical classifications @TysonMartin246 @CavernaFootball @minguabeefjerky @1776Bank @840WHAS @KyHighFootball

January 15, 2024 Fletcher Long 1

Tyson Martin from Horse Cave, Kentucky is an example of a growing trend across the Bluegrass of high school football stars making significant contributions in all three phases of a football game. The 6’1,” 190-pounder led his classification in rushing this past season and contributed mightily in every phase to include the 3.5 GPA he logged in the classroom. Enjoy the feature. Friday Night Fletch.