Golden Lions Start Strong: Garrard Opens Season with 29-19 Victory Over North Bullitt

The Garrard County Golden Lions kicked off their 2025 football season in impressive fashion Friday night, defeating the North Bullitt Eagles 29-19 in the Death Valley Bowl at Lincoln County High School.

Senior quarterback Justin Parsons opened the scoring with a spectacular 32-yard rushing touchdown on the game's first drive, setting the tone for what would become a physical, ground-and-pound performance.

Parsons later added a touchdown pass to Gavin Baker in the fourth quarter that helped seal the victory for Garrard County.

The Golden Lions' success throughout the night ran through their experienced offensive line, which controlled the trenches throughout the game. Mason Agee’s dominant performance on both sides of the ball, hurtled the Lions past the Eagles.

The offensive front, featuring returners like Agee and Ethan Viands, consistently opened running lanes and gave Parsons time to operate. Running backs Lucas Whitt, RJ Blair, and sophomore Keelan Haun all contributed to a balanced ground attack.

After allowing some big plays in the first half, defensive coordinator Jeff Hester's unit made crucial halftime adjustments. The Golden Lions defense tightened significantly in the second half, with players like Syler Skeens and Gavin Baker making key stops.

North Bullitt's dynamic quarterback Micah Hoke provided the primary challenge for Garrard County's defense, scoring twice and consistently finding ways to extend plays. The Eagles' Hunter Puckett added a spectacular 85-yard kickoff return for a touchdown that kept North Bullitt in the game.

The game's turning point came in the fourth quarter when the Golden Lions recovered a fumbled punt at the North Bullitt nine-yard line. Garrard capitalized with a touchdown to extend the lead to 22-13.

After North Bullitt answered with Puckett's kickoff return touchdown, Garrard County responded with a methodical drive capped by Parsons' touchdown pass to Baker, effectively putting the game away.

The victory marks a successful debut for a Golden Lions team replacing significant offensive production from 2024's 8-4 campaign. The team graduated 1,000-yard rushers Malachi Simmons and Cam Peek, making this season's early success particularly encouraging.

Garrard County returns home next Friday to face Lawrence County in their annual bowl game at Garrard County High School. The Golden Lions will look to build on their strong season opener as they pursue another successful campaign in 2025.

The 29-19 victory showcased the physical, disciplined style of play that has become synonymous with Head Coach Spencer Crutchfield's program, setting a positive tone for the season ahead in Lancaster.