The storied history between Middlesboro and Harlan has been one-sided over the past seven seasons. Since the two teams started playing each other regularly in 2011, the Jackets have dominated the series winning five of those meetings. The Dragons have only been able to pick up wins in 2011 (48-42) and in 2016 (25-14).

With Middlesboro coming off a disappointing loss last week to North Laurel, the Jackets will look to get back on the winning track with a road victory.

Last season was a low scoring affair between the two teams. After scoring with 22 seconds remaining on the clock, the Dragons had a chance to send the game into overtime with a two-point conversion. A timely stop by the Middlesboro defense sealed the game with the Jackets picking up a 14-12 victory.

Senior running back Corey Hariston led the Jackets in that game with 153 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries. Sebastian Wagoner racked up 15 tackles.

The Jackets will hope to pick up their second victory of the season with a win over Harlan on Friday.

Know the Dragons

Harlan is going through a slow phase early in the season. Still trying to find their footing, the Dragons have lost their first three games of the season (Floyd Central, Paintsville and Thomas Walker, Virginia).

With Kendal Brock being one of the key losses on offense, Harlan returns most of it players. One significant change from a year ago is at the quarterback position. Will Varner has taken over behind center, a spot that was occupied by Kilian Ledford last year.

The senior has thrown for 248 yards and two touchdowns on 23 completions this year. His main target has been Caleb Adkins, who has caught 16 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown.

Varner also lead the team on the ground rushing for a team-high 70 yards and one touchdown on 16 carries. Jacob Howard has tallied 55 yards on 18 carries while John Brock has 44 yards on 23 carries.