Corbin to open season again Pikeville in ’22 Pigskin Classic

Corbin Football’s 2022 schedule is now complete as the Redhounds will face defending Class A champion Pikeville to open the season in the Cumberland Falls Pigskin Classic.

Corbin Football Coach Tom Greer said the contract was signed Monday to have the Panthers come to Campbell Field for the game on Aug. 19.

“It is a great opportunity for us to go up against the defending state champions,” Greer said of facing Pikeville noting it will improve the Redhounds’ RPI.

The Panthers finished the season with a 14-2 record that included playoff wins over Phelps, Hazard, Williamsburg, Raceland and Russellville.

Pikeville defeated Russellville at Kroger Field on Dec. 3, 30-27 to claim the state title.

Among the players returning for the Panthers in 2022 will be running back Blake Birchfield, wide receiver Wade Hensley, along with Devin DeRossett and Luke Ray on the defensive side.

Birchifeld was the primary offensive weapon for Pikeville, running for 202 yards and five touchdowns against Williamsburg and 183 yards and two touchdowns in the state championship.

Hensley was the primary receiving option, catching five passes for 74 yards and two touchdowns against Williamsburg and two passes for 66 yards and a touchdown against Russellville.

DeRossett and Ray led the Panthers in tackles in the win over Russellville.

Greer said previously that the remainder of the schedule would feature the same opponents as 2021.

Corbin will host Whitley County, Pulaski County, Knox Central, Lincoln County and Campbell County, Kentucky.

The Redhounds will travel to Franklin County, Somerset, Simon Kenton and Wayne County.

Greer said the second game in the Pigskin Classic will feature a rematch between Williamsburg and Oneida, Tennessee.

Greer said the agreement with Pikeville is only for 2022 and does not include Corbin playing at Pikeville in 2023.