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JOHN MIDDLETON

Sports Editor

The Harlan Green Dragons will attempt to secure a signature victory heading into the postseason as they travel to Corbin today. The Green Dragons have picked up district wins in the last two weeks, but a victory over the Redhounds would be even more impressive.

“If we can play well and come out with a win it would be a hug stepping stone going into the playoffs,” said Harlan coach J.B. Donahue. “This would be a big statement for them. Harlan has not beat them in a while, so it would be a big statement to beat somebody that we haven’t beat in a long time.”

For Corbin, Matt Jewell is tops on offense with 682 yards and nine touchdowns on 123 carries, while Jake Coppock has added 311 yards and two touchdowns on 59 carries. Four other players have rushed for over 100 yards on the season, and the Redhounds are averaging 236 yards per game on the ground.

“They use a lot of formations. They run a lot of power football and trap with it. They are going to throw a lot of formations at us, so getting lined up properly will be a big key,” Donahue said. “Defensively, I think we have been sharper at getting lined up well. We have been gap sound and tackle well this week.”

The Dragons have featured a balanced attack on their way to piling up 89 points in the last two weeks.

“I think we are starting to create that balance that we are looking for. We have to try to maintain the balance of running and throwing,” Donahue said. “We have to stay committed to the running game, and Ty and the receivers need to maintain balance in the passing game. I think having that dual-threat will be a big key for us.”

Much like Harlan, Jewell said Friday’s contest will provide an opportunity to build momentum heading into the postseason.

“We’ve talked to the kids all week about the fact that you want to run or sprint in to the playoffs as opposed to just backing in,” Jewell said. “I always liked it when there was a lot riding on this last game of the season and where it was a pride game, but there’s not a lot riding on this game.”

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.