The Panthers are the 2nd-highest ranked team in EK right now.

The Bluegrasspreps.com Preseason Poll has Pikeville #4 in Class A & Sheldon Clark #8 in Class 3A (with district rival Belfry at #3). Also, Bell Co. is #2 in 4A, Middlesboro #9 in 2A and Cumberland & Hazard #9 & #10 in A (if you didn't know, Ky. went to 6 classes this year).