LOG MOUNTAIN — In a highly anticipated district matchup, two of the state’s top running backs will go head-to-head when Knox Central takes on Bell County on Friday.
Bell County’s senior running back, Daniel Thomas, is a strong contender for this season’s Mr. Football award, and his impressive stats speak for themselves.
Thomas leads the state with 1,837 rushing yards and 29 rushing touchdowns, averaging an impressive 10 yards per carry. He has also contributed on defense with 28 tackles, a sack, and two fumble recoveries, one of which resulted in a touchdown.
Not to be overshadowed, Knox Central’s senior running back, Steve Partin, has also made a significant impact on the field.
Despite missing his team’s first three games, Partin leads the state in yards per game, averaging 280 yards and 12.6 yards per attempt. He has accumulated 1,122 yards and 16 touchdowns on just 89 carries. Partin has also been a force on defense with 28 tackles and five sacks.
This game will not be solely focused on the two standout running backs.
Both teams boast a wealth of talent.
Bell County’s quarterback, Blake Burnett, has completed 20-of-34 pass attempts for 389 yards and four touchdowns. Elijah Hampton leads the Bobcats in receiving with seven catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns, while Hayden Dameron has contributed six catches for 150 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, Blake Evans leads Bell County with 60 tackles, and Dameron leads the team with six sacks.
For Knox Central, Mason Griffin has completed 42-of-79 pass attempts for 410 yards and six touchdowns. Nathan Dunn has been a reliable target with 12 receptions for a team-leading 165 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Jacob Smith has also been productive with 21 receptions for 163 yards and a score. Defensively, Donovan Smith and Cayden Collins lead the team with 40 tackles each.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 p.m., promising an exciting showdown between these talented teams.
