Bell County’s struggle to defeat Corbin continued last week when the Bobcats missed out on a chance to host a playoff game during their 42-8 loss to the Hounds. This week, Bell County will have a chance to finish third in the district when they travel to Jackson County.

In the two years since the Generals moved to District 8, the Bobcats have made easy work of them with lopsided victories. In 2015, Bell handed Jackson a 48-8 loss. During last year’s high scoring affair, the Bobcats outpointed the Generals, 68-44.

This year’s edition of the game will once again be for third place in the district. The winner of this game will likely head to Breathitt County while the loser heads to Powell County.

A trip to Morgan County could also be in the cards for either team depending on how Friday’s game between Morgan County and Powell County ends.

Know the Generals

Jackson County’s problems on the football field continued this season with the Generals winning only two games at this point in the year. The team handed Berea a much expected lopsided defeat and earned a 26-12 district victory over McCreary Central last week.

It was dual-threat quarterback Isiah Baker that help push the Generals to a win over McCreary. Baker has been one of the leaders offensively for Jackson all year. He has thrown for 768 yards and five touchdowns while also tossing 10 interceptions.

On the ground, Baker has tallied 230 yards and six touchdowns. Tommy Thompson has been the junior’s main target in the passing game hauling in nine receptions for 235 yards and two touchdowns. Andy Bryant has brought in 194 yards and a touchdown on nine receptions.

Jackson County’s ground game — headed by Dylan Martin — has tallied 1,138 yards on the season. Martin has rushed for 431 yards and two touchdowns this year. Shawn Browning rounds out the duo with 307 yards and two touchdowns.

Rushing defense will be a concern for the Generals as they go up against a run-heavy Bell County offense. Jackson has allowed 1,513 yards on the ground this season. Jeff Issaacs has a team-high 76 tackles this year. Browning and Derek Dunn help lead the team in tackles with 60 apiece.

Reach Anthony Cloud at 606-302-9090 or on Twitter @AnthonyCloudMDN