Henderson County had a tough task to open the 2026 season, facing defending Class 5A state runner-up Pulaski County on the road Friday night.
The Maroons showed why, pulling away in the second quarter on their way to a 41-16 win over the Colonels. Henderson trailed just 7-3 after the first quarter following a 22-yard field goal from Miles Pryor, but Pulaski took control from there. The Maroons scored 27 unanswered points in the second quarter to take a 34-3 advantage into halftime.
Despite the deficit, the Colonels found some success through the air in the second half.
Senior quarterback Brody Belt connected with Jackson Loveless for both Henderson touchdowns, including a 95-yard strike in the fourth quarter. The play broke the previous school record for longest touchdown pass of 93 yards, set by Duffer Duffy to Kevin Herron against Madisonville in 1995.
Belt finished 12-of-15 for 213 yards and two touchdowns, while Loveless hauled in seven passes for 167 yards and two scores.
Pulaski controlled the game on the ground, finishing with 274 rushing yards compared to just two for Henderson. The Maroons outgained the Colonels 439-215 overall. Defensively, senior Jack Dalton led Henderson with nine tackles, while junior Kieran Cole added six. Johnny Langley recorded the Colonels’ lone sack, according to WSON.
Henderson County (0-1) now turns its attention to its home opener and annual Hall of Fame game against Madisonville on Friday, Aug. 28. Kickoff at Colonel Stadium is set for 7 p.m.
Stats in article courtesy of WSON.
