Johnson Central falls to Franklin County in Class 4A Semifinals

STAFF REPORT

BSN

PAINTSVILLE — After reeling off 25 straight wins, reigning state champion Johnson Central fell to Franklin County in the KHSAA Class 4A Semifinals.

Visiting Franklin County defeated Johnson Central 20-12 in the KHSAA Class 4A Semifinals at Eagle Field on Friday, Dec. 11.

Johnson Central ended its season 10-1.

Following the win, Franklin County improved to 10-1 and advanced to the KHSAA Class 4A title game.

Franklin County led 13-0 at halftime. The Flyers led 20-0 before Johnson Central answered. However, Johnson Central battled back. The Golden Eagles outscored Franklin County 12-7 in the second half prior to falling short.

Quarterback Nick Broyles led Franklin County to the win, completing 16 of 23 passes for 225 yards and two touchdowns.

Fred Farrier and Zach Claudio hauled in one touchdown pass reception apiece for the Flyers. Farrier led Franklin County in receiving, reeling in eight receptions for 103 yards and one touchdown.

Limited on the ground, Franklin County rushed 20 times for 63 yards and one touchdown. Peyton Ledford rushed for the Flyers' only touchdown in the upset win.

Jayden Mattison stopped Johnson Central's final offensive drive late in the fourth quarter, recording an interception.

Grant Rice and Dylan Preston rushed for one touchdown apiece for the Golden Eagles in the season-ending loss.

Franklin County is scheduled to face Boyle County in the KHSAA Class 4A title game at Kroger Field in Lexington at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18.