Highlands Overpowers Dixie Heights

2009 Playoff Week Two: Highlands 49 Dixie Heights 0
Kentucky Class 5A Playoffs - Round Two
Date/Time: Friday, November 13 at 7:00PM
Location: Highlands

Fort Thomas Highlands hosted Dixie Heights in the second round of the Class 5A state playoffs, and routed the visiting Colonels 49-0. Multi-purpose specialist Will Bardo set the tone for the game, returning the opening kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown. Running back Austin Collinsworth returned to action after missing the past few weeks with an injury; he rushed for 77 yards on 11 carries, registering a touchdown for the 'Birds. Running back Tyler Fennell was the leading rusher for Highlands. He amassed 87 yards and a rushing touchdown. Quarterback Patrick Towles completed 50% of his passing attempts in the contest, throwing for 213 yards and 2 touchdowns; both touchdown passes were to wide receiver John Drennen.

Highlands led 36-0 at halftime. Highlands' defense pitched a shutout for the second time this year. Highlands allowed only 172 yards of offense, while gaining 489 yards of total offense in the game. Dixie Heights entered the game with a record of 5-6 in 2009.

On Friday, November 20 at 7:30PM, Highlands will play Johnson Central in the Kentucky Class 5A Regional Final. The game will be played at Highlands. Johnson Central has a 2009 record of 8-4. They advanced to the third round of the state playoffs after beating Covington Catholic 51-32. The Golden Eagles currently have an 8-game winning streak heading into this playoff contest. This game is a rematch of last year's regional final game, which Highlands won 35-21 at Johnson Central en route to a state championship.

To-date:
- Highlands' 2009 varsity record: 12-0
- Highlands' 2009 JV record: 7-2 (season complete)
- Highlands' 2009 freshman record: 7-2 (season complete)