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STANFORD — Lincoln County can end a tough season on a high note, while Garrard County can build some momentum heading into the playoffs when the two rivals meet here in Friday’s regular season finale.

“We can go out a winner this Friday and bring some much needed momentum into the off season,” Lincoln coach Mike Settles said. “It is obvious we are still in the rebuilding process and have a long way to go, but the effort that our kids showed last Friday goes a long way to get us in the direction we need to go. A win Friday would help continue to build the foundation for the future.“

Garrard (4-5) got by Casey County 28-26 last week to lock up second place in its Class AAA district and secure a home playoff game next week against Powell County. But Garrard coach Mark Scenters doesn’t want his team to end the season with a loss to its rivals.

“A win over our 5-A rivals would be a great springboard into the home playoff game,” he said. “It has been a few years since Garrard has beaten Lincoln, and that is a motivating factor. We have to match and exceed the intensity that Lincoln County will bring into this game.”

Settles said Garrard’s offense, which averages 27 points and 260 yards per game, concerns him because it can beat you in different ways.

Tyler Ray leads the team in rushing (565 yards, three touchdowns), receiving (24 catches, 289 yards, 4 TDs) and has three kickoffs and a punt return for a touchdown.

“Tyler Ray is a player that can take over a game. His ability to make things happen with his speed and quickness,” Settles said.

But, he added, stopping Ray alone isn’t enough.

Fred Hayes has 428 yards and six touchdowns rushing, and has nine catches for 133 yards and a score. Cory Wilson has rushed for 550 yards and six touchdowns. Quarterback Billy Abney has thrown for 564 yards and five touchdowns.

“Garrard County has several other athletic players, and their quarterback, Billy Abney, is going to be a great player,” Settles said. “Coach Scenters and his staff does a nice job of putting their best players in positions to make plays.”

But Garrard is giving up 277 yards rushing per game, so Settles is hoping his team can control the ball and keep Garrard’s offense off the field.

“Offensive ball control is important for both teams in this game. We cannot turn the ball over and expect to win. If we can establish the running game and pass when we want to, then we will be successful,” Settles said.

To do that, the Patriots (1-8) need a big game from sophomore Deon Shannon, who had 115 yards and two touchdowns last week against South Laurel. He has 315 yards and three touchdowns rushing this season. Matt Carrier leads Lincoln with 391 yards and five scores.

“Everyone across the state will know who Deon Shannon is by the time he is a senior. He does things that you cannot coach. His ability to see the field and make defenders miss are signs of a good back,” Settles said.

“Shannon is a very explosive runner and has breakaway ability. Carrier had a couple nice runs against Mercer and we can't forget that Julian Calhoun could line up in the backfield at any time,” Scenters said. “He can be explosive. Also we can't overlook the job that the (Austin) Hinds kid has done since he moved into the quarterback spot. He does several things well, including running the option.

“I think depth could be a reason as to why Lincoln has not had the success against schools their size, but their first team players are as good as any team we have faced this year outside of Anderson County.”

Garrard County at Lincoln County
7:30 p.m. Friday, Stanford

* RADIO/WEBCAST:
WPBK-FM (102.9) live
WRNZ-FM (105.1) at 10 p.m.
www.wpbkfm.com
www.hometownlive.net

* RECORDS
Golden Lions: 4-5
Patriots: 1-8

* LAST MEETING (2008): Lincoln County 40-20

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