BUCKLEYS CREEK – Prestonsburg defeated its 10th opponent in as many games Friday night. The Blackcats put the finishing touches on a perfect regular-season, defeating host Pike County Central 46-20. Prestonsburg exited the regular-season 10-0.

The homestanding Hawks struggled to keep up with Prestonsburg as the Blackcats featured a balanced offensive attack. Gradually, Prestonsburg put a considerable amount of distance between itself and Pike County Central.

Senior Austin McKinney, a longtime defensive leader for the Blackcats, continued to help lead the Blackcats offensively. McKinney was the leading ballcarrier for the Blackcats, rushing 10 times for 125 yards and two touchdowns.

Prestonsburg rushed for a collective 293 yards. The Blackcats were also able to move the football through the air against the Pike County Central squad.

Josh Craynon rushed eight times for 88 yards and one touchdown as Prestonsburg prevailed in the regular-season finale and kept its perfect record intact.

Senior quarterback Michael Burchett rushed for a pair of touchdowns, compiling 43 yards through 10 carries.

Prestonsburg underclassmen Bryson Williams, Joseph Jamerson and Adam Crisp also rushed for positive yardage.

Burchett completed 8-of-12 passes for two touchdowns, amassing 125 yards along the way.

Jamerson and Tyler Hall both had one scoring reception for the Blackcats. A sophomore, Jamerson had a team-high three receptions.

The Prestonsburg defense enjoyed another balanced effort. Alex Griffith was the defensive leader for Prestonsburg. Griffith recorded a game-high 16 tackles for the undefeated Blackcats.

McKinney and Josh Stambaugh provided 11 tackles apiece while Josh Blackburn turned in eight stops. Jamerson and Max Turner each had seven tackles.

Blackcat defender Cameron Tincher posted an interception against the Pike County Central offense.

Burchett covered a fumble for the Cats.

Prestonsburg will entertain Knott County Central Friday (Nov. 6) in the opening round of the Class 2A State Playoffs. Kickoff for the Prestonsburg-Pike County Central game is set for 7:30 p.m.