LEXINGTON — Corbin’s “thunder and lightning” backfield duo of Jake Salmons and Micah House powered the Redhounds to their 10th middle school state championship, combining for three rushing touchdowns in a 26-8 win over Rockcastle County in the KYMSFA 8th Grade Division II State Title Game.
First-year head coach Jody Mouser, who took over the program during the summer, said the title was the perfect finish to what he called a remarkable run by his team.
“When they hand you the keys to a Cadillac, you just shine the wheels a little bit,” Mouser joked. “We have a very good team. I thought we played an outstanding game. Jake got an interception early and then punched it in. He’s the best running back in the state, and Micah is right there with him, too.
“But we couldn’t have done this without our offensive line,” Mouser added. “They played outstanding, and so did our defense. I told the kids when I took over to stick with me, stick together, and play for each other — and they did that. You could see them getting better. This is just a fun group of kids. They have a good future.”
Once Salmons scored the game’s opening touchdown following his early interception, the Redhounds seized control.
“Rockcastle has a good team,” Mouser said. “Jake’s interception set the tone, and our defense played great.”
Quarterback James Nunley also added a rushing touchdown as Corbin’s ground attack dictated the game from start to finish.
“It was really windy out there, so throwing the ball was going to be hard,” Mouser said. “Our kids just did a fantastic job. They’ve been that way all year. They cheer each other on, and that’s what it’s about.”
