Hancock County opened the 2025 season with a statement win Friday night, defeating John Hardin 42-28 at home.
The Hornets, coming off a three-loss campaign last year, built an early cushion and fended off multiple Bulldog rallies behind a balanced offensive attack.
After a pair of early scores, quarterback Brady Eubanks connected with Cooper Jones late in the first half for a touchdown to extend Hancock’s lead to 29-7. After John Hardin cut the deficit with a short rushing score and two-point conversion, the Hornets answered quickly. Kaplan Helms powered into the end zone with 29 seconds left before halftime, sending Hancock into the break ahead 35-15.
The Bulldogs made it a two-possession game midway through the third quarter, but Hancock responded again. Running back Kyle Anderson crossed the goal line with 11:50 left in the fourth, giving the Hornets a 42-21 lead. John Hardin managed one more score with 7:48 remaining, but the Hornets’ defense held firm the rest of the way.
Head coach Bobby Eubanks said he was proud of the way his team handled opening night.
“The kids came out and battled for four quarters,” Eubanks said. “We jumped on them early and were able to keep their ground game in front of us. I am proud of our guys for playing a complete game. John Hardin is a solid football team.”
He credited special teams for playing a major role in the victory.
“We came out with good energy, and special teams was a big factor,” Eubanks said. “We caused a safety on a punt block. Cooper Jones had some big returns, and kicker Anthony Dubon did a great job on kickoffs to keep it away from their returners.”
Looking ahead, Eubanks said execution will be the focus.
“We have to clean up some execution mistakes for next week, but overall I was very pleased with our effort in Week 1,” he said.
Hancock County (1-0) will host rival Breckinridge County next week.
Unofficial stats
- Brady Eubanks — 10-for-17 passing, 187 yards, 2 TDs; 52 rushing yards
- Kyle Anderson — 12 carries, 62 yards, 3 rushing TDs
- Kalab Helms — 7 carries, 54 yards, 1 TD
- Cooper Jones — 5 receptions, 67 yards, 1 TD
- Graham Shearn — 3 receptions, 94 yards, 1 TD
