After a 2024 season filled with both growing pains and flashes of promise, the Taylor County Cardinals are heading into the 2025 campaign with a renewed sense of purpose. Last year, the Cardinals closed the regular season with a 6-5 record, capped off by a first-round playoff loss to Letcher County Central. But that record only tells part of the story.
The season opened on a tough note with lopsided losses to Woodford County (54-14) and Bardstown (27-0), forcing the team to regroup early. However, Taylor County responded with resilience. They rattled off two consecutive wins over Elizabethtown (41-29) and LaRue County (28-7), showcasing their offensive potential and defensive grit.
There were more hurdles, including a tough road loss to powerhouse Boyle County (48-0) and a disappointing defeat at Russell County (35-19). But key victories over Wayne County (21-15), North Laurel (20-7), Lincoln County (36-10), and a dominant shutout of Green County (43-0) revealed a team that was finding its identity and gaining confidence.
Still, the playoff exit — a 37-0 loss at the hands of Letcher County Central — left a sour taste and plenty of motivation.
Back at full strength, Rex Parkey has looked sharp this preseason. With him leading a veteran squad, the Cardinals have plenty to feel good about as the new season approaches.
While there’s plenty of excitement about the upcoming season, Taylor County will also have to overcome the loss of several key seniors who played significant roles last year. Standouts like Jaquon Coulter, Alex Moreia, Brenton Newton, Wyatt Nolley, and Keenan Shively have graduated, leaving behind big shoes to fill on both sides of the ball. Their leadership and production were instrumental in the team’s success, and replacing their presence will be one of the early challenges this fall.
This fall, Taylor County returns with a core group of experienced players and a coaching staff determined to take the next step. Expect the Cardinals to lean heavily on the lessons learned from last year’s rollercoaster season. Improved consistency, especially on defense, and better starts against tough opponents will be key focuses.
The 2025 schedule will again test Taylor County early, but with depth developing on both sides of the ball and a group of emerging leaders in the locker room, there’s reason to believe the Cardinals can turn last season’s struggles into this year’s success.