Floyd Central quarterback Ketrin Mays prepares to hand off to FC running back Bailey Evans during the Jaguars’ home opener versus Magoffin County on Friday, Aug. 29.
Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Steve LeMaster
EASTERN — Floyd Central held on to defeat Magoffin County 44-42 in its home opener on Friday, Aug. 29.Â
The Jaguars returned to the win column following a winless season in 2024. Floyd Central won for the first time since Nov. 3, 2023.Â
Trevor Hoskins registered his first win as Floyd Central head coach.Â
“I’m just happy for our players,” Hoskins said, following his team’s emotional win. “Doing the things it takes to win is hard. And it’s even harder to continue to do those things when you haven’t won. These players have been working hard and doing all the right things. I’m just happy to see them get over the hump.Â
“I’m happy to see the stands full and the support that this community gave to our team in a back-and-forth game. I thought that really helped us.”
Hoskins was quick to compliment both his players and coaching staff.
“I’m proud of our coaching staff and the job that they did to put our guys in position and even more proud of the players who made the plays they needed to make for us to win,” commented Hoskins.Â
Floyd Central and Magoffin County tested each other throughout the early-season game.
“Hats off to Coach (John) DeRossett and Magoffin County, they played an outstanding game,” added Hoskins. “Hopefully this will give our guys more confidence and be something we can build on as a program.”Â
Magoffin County scored first at the 4:24 mark of the opening quarter but Floyd Central answered and never trailed again.
The Jaguars and Hornets were tied 12-12 at the conclusion of the initial quarter.
Floyd Central entered halftime ahead 24-20.
Extending its lead, Floyd Central led 32-20 late in the third quarter and carried the same advantage into the final period.
Still, Magoffin County wouldn’t go away and nearly pulled even. Floyd Central stopped a two-point conversion to prevent Magoffin County from tying the game late.
Sophomore quarterback Ketrin Mays led Floyd Central to the win. Mays completed 18 passes for 328 yards and three touchdowns. Showing his versatility, Mays added one rushing touchdown for the Jaguars. Mays set new school records for both most passing yards in a single game and most completions in a single game.Â
Wesley Buck emerged as Floyd Central’s leading receiver, hauling in 10 receptions for 252 yards and two touchdowns. Buck set school records for both most receptions in a single game and most receiving yards in a single game.Â
As part of a productive offensive attack, Bailey Evans, Damian Cotton and Ethan Curry helped to lead Floyd central to the win.Â
Up front, Floyd Central’s offensive line turned in a solid performance.Â
Behind another productive offensive line, running back Blake Wireman led Magoffin County, rushing 22 times for 347 yards and six touchdowns.Â
Each team exited the game 1-1.Â
Floyd Central is scheduled to visit Pike County Central for its next game on Friday, Sept. 5.