TheTimesTribune.com, Corbin, KY
CORBIN —
By John Stepp For The Times-Tribune
The Knox Central Panthers have started the season 2-0 for the first time since Wayne Mills took over as head coach. This week the Panthers will look to pick up their third straight win of the season, when they take on the Johnson Central Golden Eagles in the Appalachian Bowl at Clay County.
The Eagles will be the biggest challenge Knox Central has had so far this season, but win or lose, Mills thinks Friday’s game will help prepare his team for the district schedule, which includes Bell County and Rockcastle County.
“Johnson Central is a top five team in 5A. We have to play a really good game this week,” said Mills. “We want to keep it close to the end, and give ourselves a chance to win the game. This game is a good measuring stick for us, and will help us prepare for our district schedule.”
The Knox Central defense has been impressive so far this season, allowing just 13 points in two games. The rushing attack by Johnson Central will pose a threat to the Knox defense, led by quarterback J.K. Hall and running back J.J. Jude.
Mills said he needs to continue to get good play from his defensive line, if they plan on stopping the Eagles’ rushing attack. Mills added that safety Jamie Mills (two interceptions vs. South Laurel) has stepped up for the Panthers, and could play a big role this week.
“Our defense has done a great job for us so far. Our defensive line is probably the strongest unit we have, and we need them to keep playing that way,” said Mills. “I was really impressed with Jamie Mills last week. He’s played a real good game against South Laurel. We need a complete effort on defense this week.”
The Panthers will continue to use a balanced attack again this week. Senior running back Tyler Bailey needs a big game this week to help control the ball for Knox Central, and keep it out of their opponent’s hands. The Panthers will also need a good running game to open up their passing attack.
“We haven’t scored many points so far this season, but this is the third game of the year, and we should start seeing strides in our offense by now,” said Mills. “I didn’t feel like we were as prepared last week (against South Laurel) as we were against Clay County. We have to have a good week of practice this week in order to be firing on all cylinders.”
While the focus of every game is the performance of offense, defense and special teams, Mills said his team will need to be ready mentally for Johnson Central.
“Last week, I felt like we had one of those ugly wins,” said Mills. “This week we can’t get those silly penalties; we can’t fumble the football; we can’t do those things that kill you. You can’t keep winning being lucky. We’re going to have to go out, stay focused and perform.”
The Panthers may have a couple advantages over the Eagles this week in the fan base and the weather. Mills said the Panther fans have been coming out full force, even for the much hotter six o’clock games.
“We are 2-0 now, and our fans are traveling good right now. That is always big for us,” said Mills. “This is our third straight six o’clock game, and it is hotter than the games that start at 7:30 p.m. We should be used to the heat by now. We will take any advantage we can get.”
With a win on Friday, the Panthers will put themselves on the radar as one of the top teams in the mountains, but even with a loss, Knox Central won’t hang its season on this game.
“I don’t think anyone is giving us a real chance in this game, and that is okay,” said Mills. “We’re coming into the game with our hair hanging loose, and looking to have fun. This game does not determine anything. A win will really boost our confidence, but a loss will not end our season.”
