Despite two surprising regular-season losses to Calloway County and Logan County in 2020, the Hopkinsville Tigers rebounded to knock off both the Lakers and the Cougars in the playoffs on the way to a 4A state semifinal showing. Now, after the loss of sixteen seniors from a year ago, the Tigers look to continue last season’s momentum and a strong performance over the summer in a bid for another deep postseason run.
After the blowout loss to eventual state champion Boyle County ended the Tigers’ season, four seniors moved on to the next level. Reece Jesse earned 2nd-Team All-State honors on his way to the University of Louisville, joining Tahj Manning, Donyea Welch, and Ventrail Baker in joining the college ranks.
Jesse led the Tigers in catches, yards, and receiving touchdowns on the way to school records in all three categories. Baker was second in carries, rushing yards and touchdowns, while also leading the defense with 37 tackles, five for loss. In addition, Ryan Myers moved on to play college baseball after being second on the team in catches and yards.
Welch and Manning leave big holes on the defensive side, after combining for 47 tackles, nine for loss, with six sacks. All-WKC selection Alijah Watts will be playing basketball in college after chipping in 13 tackles with two forced fumbles and a recovery.
Leading the charge in 2021 for the Tigers is All-WKC 1st Team and All-State Honorable Mention defensive back Daisjaun Mercer. The junior had three interceptions and 20 tackles, but also had a big impact on the offensive side. He carried the ball 16 times for 146 yards and a score, while also making ten catches for just under 200 yards and three TDs.
Senior quarterback Treyvon Jefferson is back under center after posting 81 completions on 169 attempts with 16 touchdowns, eight interceptions, and 1,476 yards. He also rushed 25 times for 75 yards and two scores on the way to All-WKC recognition.
Sharing the backfield with Jefferson is senior running back Jayden Dillard. He was another All-WKC selection after carrying the ball a team-high 125 times for just under 600 yards and seven touchdowns, while also making nine catches with one TD.
The Tigers also enjoy the luxury of a very reliable K/P in Zach Moss. As a freshman, he was 30/34 on PATs and knocked down his only field goal attempt.
A trio of seniors will be looking to expand their impact on the defensive side. David Boswell was third on the team with 23 tackles, three for loss, with a pair of sacks and an interception. Jaiden Metcalfe made 22 tackles as a junior, and Emmanuel Cheatham brings big play potential after making ten tackles with and pick and a 95-yard return TD.
Senior Kensington Cabiness looks to be in line to contribute as a receiver based on this summer’s 7-on-7 play. Junior Trushaun Matt and senior Kemaure Mumford turned heads on the defensive side, helping the Tigers to a Best of the West 7-on-7 title.
Up first for Hopkinsville is a visit from Louisville Ballard in week one. The Tigers have won their last two openers since South Warren left the Stadium of Champions with a 49-17 win in 2018.
