The Pirates, though, dropped its next five games on the schedule to fall to 3-7 overall and finish in the bottom of the region for the second consecutive year.
Still, that early-season success proved to be valuable for a Pike County team that was shutout of the win column in 2006.
“It was good to get those wins. It got the kids excited and it gave a boost to their confidence,” Pike County coach John McMillan said. “They now we realize we’re doing things right and we’re moving in the right direction. We’re starting to do all the right things to win football games.”
McMillan said he has high hopes for the next football season. Many of the school’s younger players participated in the junior varsity and ninth-grade team, both of which enjoyed success this season as well.
“It looks good for our future. All the guys are working to the same goal,” McMillan said.
McMillan said the biggest positive he will take from this season was the performance of the senior class.
Senior quarterback D.J. Tice threw for more than 1,300 yards, while receiver Ross Turner caught more than 40 passes this season.
“They really played their positions well this season,” McMillan said. “We needed them to be there.”
McMillan also praised the effort of senior offensive linemen Caleb Manley and Aaron Hurd.
“All those seniors, they’re going to be missed,” McMillan said.
Pike County’s offense averaged close to 22 points this season, more than double its 10.6 points per game average from 2006.
The Pirates’ defense, led by junior Rodney Story, allowed an average of 28 points, three points fewer than its 2006 average.
“We improved from last year, but we’re still a long ways from where we want to be,” McMillan said. “We just need to continue to get stronger in the weight room and play smarter on the field.”
The Pirates return to the field in May for spring practice, and McMillan said his first priority will be to fill the holes left by the departing seniors.
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