Beech Tree News Network

MORGANTOWN— Butler County is set to host Franklin-Simpson for its next Class 3A, District 2 matchup on Friday, Sept. 22.

The Bears and Wildcats are newfound rivals.

Unfamiliar foes, Butler County and Franklin-Simpson did not meet during the 2022 high school football season.

Butler County is 1-4 overall and 0-1 in Class 3A, District 2. Butler County will enter the upcoming Class 3A, District 2 matchup looking to halt a four-game losing skid. The Bears have suffered four straight losses to Webster County, Warren Central, Grayson County and Hart County after beating Russellville in a season opener.

Head coach Brandon Embry guides the Bears. Quarterback Garrett Phelps and athlete Gage Beasley are combing to lead Butler County offensively in the 2023 high school football season. Phelps leads Butler County in passing while Beasley ranks as the Bears' top rusher and receiver.

Franklin-Simpson is 5-0 overall and 1-0 in Class 3A, District 2. The Wildcats have notched wins over Christian County, Warren Central, Allen County-Scottsville, Adair County and Russellville.

Head coach Max Chaney guides the Wildcats. Franklin-Simpson is excelling on the ground. The Wildcats have rushed 181 times for 1,348 yards and 20 touchdowns. Pacing Franklin-Simpson on the ground, Gavin Dickerson has rushed 46 times for 343 yards and seven TDs.

Butler County has regular season games remaining versus Franklin-Simpson, Bethlehem, Adair County, Glasgow and Ohio County.

Following the Kentucky High School Athletic Association's realignment, Butler County, Franklin-Simpson, Adair County, Glasgow and Hart County comprise Class 3A, District 2.

Kickoff for the Butler County-Franklin-Simpson game is set for 7 p.m.