It’s that time again, folks.
The crystal ball comes out, the sparks fly, and the nerves crank up a notch as Bell County and Corbin march into the Final Four with everything on the line.
Both teams have been fantastic all season…but this week is where good seasons either become legendary — or come to an end.
Let’s get to pickin’.
Class 3A • State Semifinal
Bell County at Christian Academy–Louisville
What do you say about CAL that hasn’t already been said?
The Centurions enter on:
• 20 straight wins
• 18 straight playoff wins
• 3 straight state titles
They reload. They dominate. They’re a machine.
And yes — they’re the best team Bell County has seen this season.
But don’t think for a second that the Bobcats are rolling into Louisville just to sightsee. Dudley Hilton lives for games like this. His teams don’t panic, don’t back down, and never shy away from a challenge.
The formula is simple:
Control the ball.
Avoid turnovers.
Make CAL uncomfortable by keeping that offense on the sideline.
If Bell County can shorten the game, they’ve got a real chance to shock the state.
My heart? Bobcats.
My head? A very good CAL team.
Fear ‘Les’ Forecast: CAL 30, Bell County 18
Class 4A • State Semifinal
Corbin at Boyle County
Last week, Corbin made me look like a genius.
Picking them over Highlands wasn’t trendy, but the Redhounds didn’t care — they just lined up and handled business.
Now the road gets nastier.
A trip to Boyle County.
A battle with the Rebels.
A reunion with former Corbin coach Justin Haddix, who knows the Redhounds better than most.
Boyle is loaded. Again.
Their win over CovCath was impressive, and they look every bit the part of a title contender.
But don’t overlook what’s happening in Corbin.
Since starting 3-3, the Redhounds have won seven straight and have quietly turned into one of the most complete teams in Class 4A.
Luke Salmon deserves major credit — this group has bought in and hasn’t blinked.
Corbin’s path to an upset is clear:
• Win time of possession
• Stay disciplined
• Zero turnovers
• Survive the first 10 minutes
If the Redhounds can weather Boyle County’s early punch, the pressure flips — fast.
And once that happens?
Well…that’s when things get fun.
Fear ‘Les’ Forecast: Corbin 28, Boyle County 27
