Eight Greats Around the State Week-2 Part II: More marquee matchups heading our way

Posted on August 26, 2026 by admin

Week one of the GHSA season is complete and we were treated to some great games and some surprises. This week, we will see which teams can bounce back from adversity and also see which teams can repeat the success of Week-1. This is our weekly feature that we call Eight Greats Around the State, where we look at 8 intriguing matchups across Georgia. Part II includes the following 4 matchups:

Douglas County vs Sandy Creek: Sandy Creek heads to Douglas County riding the momentum of its impressive Week 1 win over Grayson. The Tigers, meanwhile, return home looking for their first victory of the season after suffering their first opening-game loss since 2019.

Worth County vs Cairo: Worth County and Cairo both opened the season with impressive offensive performances, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup Friday night. Cairo has dominated this series historically, but after more than a decade apart, the Rams will look to turn the tables behind a balanced offense and an opportunistic defense.

Northwest vs Dalton: The two titans of Whitfield County square off Friday night as Northwest hosts Dalton in one of the area’s most anticipated rivalries. Both teams opened the season with impressive victories, but this matchup could come down to whether Northwest can protect the football and get its explosive passing game going against a Dalton defense that forced three turnovers last week.

Brooks County vs Pierce County: Two explosive offenses square off Friday night as Pierce County travels to Quitman to take on Brooks County. The Trojans showed they can still light up the scoreboard through the air, while the Bears enter the matchup after scoring 55 first-half points in their season opener.

Thank you to the Georgia Helmet Project for the artwork. You can find them here: https://www.gahelmetproject.com/ As well as the High School Football Historians Association for all of their historical data. You can find them here: https://hsfha.org/

The Skinny

The Douglas County Tigers will be back at home this week as they look to pick up their first win of the season. It was the first opening-game loss for the Tigers since 2019, and they will look to put that disappointment behind them Friday night.

Douglas County used two quarterbacks in Week 1, as Cam Anderson and Trey Byrd combined to throw for 136 yards and two touchdowns. Byrd also added a rushing touchdown. Sophomore Jeremiah Mathis caught five passes for 71 yards in the loss, while Justin Spivy added three receptions for 39 yards. Spivy and Ja’Narious Barner each rushed for 39 yards, with Barner receiving the lion’s share of the carries.

Defensively, Brandon Shannon Jr. and Kennedy Green paced the Tigers with 14 total tackles each, while Green added two tackles for loss. The opportunistic Douglas County defense also found the end zone in the defeat, returning an interception for a touchdown.

The Sandy Creek Patriots held serve at home last week, defeating Class 7A power Grayson in the opening week. Senior quarterback Caleb Hill showed his dual-threat ability, throwing for 140 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 100 yards and another touchdown.

The Patriots are still trying to fill some gaps in the ground game, so look for the workloads of Tyrann Williams and Tre Johnston to increase as the season moves forward. Freshman Brennan Williams led all Patriot receivers with five catches for 83 yards and a touchdown.

Defensively, senior linebackers Elijah Ware and J.T. Austin paced the Patriots with 11 total tackles each. The Sandy Creek defense allowed just 246 yards to a Grayson team that finished with 330 yards of total offense in Week 1.

Keys to the Game

Douglas County Tigers

  • Establish the run: Ja’Narious Barner will likely be a major part of the Tigers’ offensive game plan.
  • Protect the quarterbacks: Douglas County needs to give Cam Anderson and Trey Byrd time to make plays.
  • Create turnovers: The Tigers’ defense showed its opportunistic nature last week and will need another big play or two.
  • Limit Caleb Hill: Keeping Caleb Hill contained both through the air and on the ground will be a major challenge.

Sandy Creek Patriots

  • Protect Hill: The offensive line must give Caleb Hill a clean pocket and allow him time to make plays.
  • Create running lanes: Sandy Creek needs to establish more consistency on the ground as the season progresses.
  • Continue the defensive pressure: The Patriots need to build on their strong performance against Grayson.
  • Avoid complacency: Coming off a big win, Sandy Creek cannot afford to overlook a Douglas County team playing at home.

Prediction

Sandy Creek should enter this game with all the confidence in the world after knocking off Grayson. Their success offensively will come down to the offensive line’s ability to give Caleb Hill a clean pocket and create running lanes for the ground game.

Meanwhile, Douglas County will likely look to continue establishing the ground game with Ja’Narious Barner. Will there be a hangover for Douglas County, or will Sandy Creek be looking past the Tigers? We don’t believe either of those statements will be the case. Instead, we like the Patriots to pull off another close road victory and shock the Tigers at home.

Prediction: Sandy Creek by 4

The Skinny

The Worth County Rams used a balanced attack Friday night to outlast Brooks County. Senior quarterback Lyndon Worthy threw for 186 yards and a touchdown while adding 34 yards on four carries. The Rams’ ground game was paced by the combination of Kody Crutchfield and Kevarius Tyler. Crutchfield carried the ball 16 times for 95 yards and three touchdowns, while Tyler added 72 yards and a touchdown on just five carries.

Jaqueveon Nelson led the Rams’ receiving corps with five receptions for 99 yards and the team’s lone receiving touchdown. The Worth County secondary also made its presence felt, intercepting three passes in the victory. The Rams also recovered three fumbles on the night, showing just how opportunistic this defense can be.

The Cairo Syrupmakers defeated Thomasville on Friday night for just the fourth time in the last 10 years. The Syrupmakers jumped out to an early 22-0 lead, with La’Derrick Perkins scoring twice, including an 87-yard touchdown run that helped pace Cairo at home. Xavier Teal also added a touchdown on the ground.

Cairo held an 8-0 lead going into halftime before extending its advantage to 29 points. Thomasville added a late touchdown to account for the final margin. Defensively, Austin Hubbard came up big for the Syrupmakers, recording two sacks and six total tackles in the victory.

Keys to the Game

Worth County Rams

  • Take care of the football: Worth County’s defense created six turnovers last week, so protecting the ball will be critical.
  • Establish the run: Kody Crutchfield and Kevarius Tyler give the Rams a strong one-two punch on the ground.
  • Make plays through the air: Lyndon Worthy and Jaqueveon Nelson need to keep Cairo’s defense honest.
  • Create pressure: The Rams need to continue making big plays defensively and force Cairo into mistakes.

Cairo Syrupmakers

  • Protect the football: Cairo cannot afford to give Worth County extra possessions.
  • Get Perkins going: La’Derrick Perkins showed big-play ability last week and will be a key part of the Syrupmakers’ offense.
  • Win the turnover battle: Worth County forced several turnovers last week, making ball security a major concern.
  • Control the line of scrimmage: Cairo needs to establish itself physically on both sides of the football.

Prediction

Cairo has dominated this series, but this will be the first time these two teams have faced off in more than 10 years. Both teams showed balance on offense in Week 1, and both have a stable of very capable running backs to go along with experience at the quarterback position. Taking care of the football will be paramount in this game Friday night.

Cairo had a couple of turnovers on offense, while Worth County forced several turnovers last week. That could be the difference in what we believe will be a mild upset.

Prediction: Worth County by 4

The Skinny

Northwest Bruins

The Northwest Bruins cruised to a shutout victory over county foe Coahulla Creek last week, jumping out to a 30-0 halftime lead. Receiver Kade Mitchell picked up right where he left off last season. Mitchell is an explosive playmaker with game-breaking speed, and the Bruins showed plenty of explosiveness on offense in their Week 1 victory.

Smith Browning looked poised in his debut as the Bruins’ starting quarterback. He showed good poise in the pocket and displayed the ability to accurately deliver the football down the field. Northwest will face a much tougher test this week, however, as Dalton’s defense comes in fresh off a strong performance against Rockmart.

Dalton Catamounts

The Dalton Catamounts also got off to a hot start Friday night, defeating Rockmart at home. Caine Woods showcased his scrambling ability early in the ballgame, rushing for 78 yards on seven carries in just one half of play. Meanwhile, Bronx Stallion led the way for the Cats on the ground with 104 yards on 19 carries and two touchdowns. Stallion also led Dalton in the passing game, catching two passes for 48 yards and a touchdown.

The Dalton defense forced three turnovers in the victory, including a game-sealing 77-yard pick-six by sophomore Drayden Gazaway. Linebacker Abreham Evans led the Cats defensively with 16 total tackles, including four tackles for loss.

Keys to the Game

Northwest Bruins

  • Protect the football: Dalton forced three turnovers last week, so Northwest cannot afford to give the Cats extra possessions.
  • Get Kade Mitchell involved: The Bruins need to find ways to get Kade Mitchell in space and take advantage of his game-breaking speed.
  • Protect Smith Browning: The Bruins need to give Smith Browning enough time to find his receivers down the field.
  • Win the defensive battle: Dalton has plenty of offensive weapons, so Northwest must avoid giving up explosive plays.

Dalton Catamounts

  • Create turnovers: The Dalton defense was opportunistic last week and will look to carry that momentum into Friday night.
  • Establish Bronx Stallion: If Caine Woods is unable to play, Bronx Stallion could be asked to shoulder an even larger offensive workload.
  • Contain Kade Mitchell: Keeping Kade Mitchell from making explosive plays will be a major priority.
  • Control the line of scrimmage: Dalton needs to establish itself physically and prevent Northwest from getting comfortable offensively.

Prediction

The competition gets stiffer this week for Northwest, as Dalton’s defense will likely look to capitalize on turnovers once again. Will Smith Browning have enough time to complete passes to game-breaker Kade Mitchell?

Meanwhile, we do not know the status of Dalton quarterback Caine Woods after he left last week’s game early. If he is unable to go, expect a steady dose of Bronx Stallion at running back for Dalton.

Northwest has won the last two games in a series that has historically been lopsided in Dalton’s favor. These two teams combined for more than 100 points a year ago, but we don’t expect that much offense this week. We do, however, believe Northwest gets its third win in a row over Dalton.

Prediction: Northwest by 6

The Skinny

The Brooks County Trojans proved their offense can be just as prolific as ever, tallying 439 yards of total offense, including 287 yards through the air. Seniors George Lamons Jr. and Khalil Watts led the way for the Trojans’ receiving corps. Lamons hauled in nine passes for 104 yards and a touchdown, while Watts exploded for six receptions and 199 yards.

Meanwhile, Caden Cobb received the bulk of the carries on the ground, rushing for 95 yards on 15 attempts and a touchdown. Lamons also found the end zone three times on the ground, rushing for five carries and three touchdowns. Junior quarterback Jamarion Crumity threw for 228 yards and a touchdown but was also intercepted twice in the game. Defensively, linebacker Zuri Vaughn led the Trojans with seven total tackles, including a sack.

The Pierce County Bears had little trouble in their opening-week victory over Coosa Christian out of Alabama, scoring all 55 of their points in the first half. Running back Jae’Veon Williams led the way for the Bears, scoring two rushing touchdowns. He also threw a touchdown pass and returned a kickoff for another score in a dominant all-around performance.

Pierce County controlled the game from the start, as Coosa Christian never seriously threatened. For context, Coosa Christian won a state championship last season under then-head coach Rush Propst, who was let go by the program earlier this year. Several players also transferred following his departure.

Keys to the Game

Brooks County Trojans

  • Stop the run: The Trojans must find a way to slow down the Pierce County ground game and Jae’Veon Williams.
  • Protect Crumity: Jamarion Crumity showed he can make plays through the air, but Brooks County cannot afford the turnovers that hurt them last week.
  • Keep the passing game rolling: George Lamons Jr. and Khalil Watts give the Trojans explosive weapons on the outside.
  • Limit explosive plays: Pierce County has the ability to score quickly, so Brooks County must avoid giving up big plays.

Pierce County Bears

  • Establish the ground game: The Bears should lean heavily on Jae’Veon Williams and their talented rushing attack.
  • Make Brooks County one-dimensional: If Pierce County can slow down the Trojans’ passing attack, it will put the Bears in a great position.
  • Force turnovers: Jamarion Crumity threw two interceptions last week, giving the Bears an opportunity to create extra possessions.
  • Control the line of scrimmage: Winning up front will be critical against a Brooks County offense that can attack in multiple ways.

Prediction

Regardless of the blowout win by the Bears, expect Brooks County to be a much stiffer challenge this week. Junior quarterback Burrus only attempted four passes in Pierce County’s opener, but Jamarion Crumity showed that whoever is taking the snaps for Brooks County is capable of making plays through the air.

The key for Brooks County will be finding a way to stop the Pierce County ground game led by Jae’Veon Williams. That’s easier said than done. Expect plenty of fireworks in this game, but we like Pierce County’s ground game to be the difference in a close battle in Quitman.

Prediction: Pierce County by 5

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Eight Greats Around the State Week-2: More marquee matchups heading our way

Posted on August 26, 2026 by admin

Week one of the GHSA season is complete and we were treated to some great games and some surprises. This week, we will see which teams can bounce back from adversity and also see which teams can repeat the success of Week-1. This is our weekly feature that we call Eight Greats Around the State, where we look at 8 intriguing matchups across Georgia. Part I include the following 4 matchups:

Rockmart vs Cedartown: Rockmart looks to bounce back from last week’s loss to Dalton when the Yellow Jackets host a Cedartown team that opened the season with an impressive defensive performance. The Bulldogs are closing the gap, setting the stage for a much more competitive matchup than last season.

Benedictine vs Hebron Christian: Benedictine looks to erase the memory of last week’s disappointing home loss when the defending Private School champion Hebron Christian Lions come to town Friday night. The Cadets will need a much stronger defensive effort and a productive performance from quarterback Omari Burse to pull off the upset.

Blessed Trinity vs Milton: Milton will face its toughest defensive challenge of the young season when the Eagles travel to take on a Blessed Trinity defense that dominated in Week 1. The Titans boast elite talent up front, while Milton enters the matchup riding the momentum of a dramatic victory over North Cobb.

LaGrange vs Troup: Two longtime rivals meet for the 39th time Friday night when Troup County visits LaGrange. Both teams opened the season with shutout victories, setting the stage for a defensive battle that could ultimately be decided by Troup’s powerful ground game.

As always, thank you to the Georgia Helmet Project for the artwork. You can find them here: https://www.gahelmetproject.com/ As well as the High School Football Historians Association for all of their historical data. You can find them here: https://hsfha.org/

The Skinny

The Rockmart Yellow Jackets look to bounce back this week after falling to Dalton last Friday. Rockmart’s offense put up more than 480 yards in the loss, including 366 yards on the ground. Quarterback Charlie Cannon threw for 119 yards but was intercepted twice. Gavin Green was his primary target, hauling in six passes for 45 yards.

The Jackets’ ground game was led by senior J.T. Taylor, who rushed for 112 yards, while junior Cortez Wright added 110 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensively, the Jackets were strong against the pass, allowing just 93 yards and one touchdown through the air. However, the ground game proved to be the bugaboo for the Rockmart defense, as Dalton rushed for 214 yards in the victory. D.J. Kennedy led the Jackets with nine total tackles, while linebacker Everett Adams recorded six tackles, including three tackles for loss.

The Cedartown Bulldogs got their season off to a hot start in Coach Tommy Atha’s second season at the helm. The Bulldogs churned out 386 yards of total offense in their Week 1 victory and were paced by a strong ground game.

Zeke Brown carried the ball nine times for 121 yards and a touchdown, while senior running back Jakobe Dorsey added 48 yards and two touchdowns. Senior quarterback Wyatt Mosley threw for 112 yards and three touchdowns on just eight pass attempts.

Rohan Kent made the most of his opportunities, as both of his receptions went for touchdowns.

Defensively, it was the best outing for Cedartown since Coach Atha took over a year ago, as the Bulldogs allowed just seven points in the victory.

Keys to the Game

Rockmart Yellow Jackets

  • Stop the run: Rockmart must improve against the run after allowing 214 yards on the ground last week.
  • Get Cannon on track: Charlie Cannon needs to find his rhythm in the passing game and avoid the turnovers that hurt the Jackets against Dalton.
  • Continue running the football: Rockmart’s rushing attack was impressive last week, and J.T. Taylor and Cortez Wright will need to keep that production going.
  • Win the line of scrimmage: The Jackets need to control the trenches on both sides of the football.

Cedartown Bulldogs

  • Lean on the running game: With Zeke Brown and Jakobe Dorsey coming off strong performances, Cedartown should look to establish the run early.
  • Make big plays through the air: Wyatt Mosley was extremely efficient in Week 1, throwing three touchdowns on just eight attempts.
  • Force Rockmart into passing situations: The Bulldogs need to slow down the Jackets’ rushing attack and make Rockmart one-dimensional.
  • Keep the momentum: Cedartown’s defense was outstanding in Week 1 and will need another strong performance against a talented Rockmart offense.

Prediction

The Jackets’ run defense will have to improve this week, as Cedartown will likely look to capitalize on its ability to run the football. Meanwhile, look for Charlie Cannon to get the passing game back on track as the Jackets continue to get more comfortable under Coach Fendley. This game should certainly be much closer than last year’s matchup, but we do like Rockmart to bounce back this week.

Prediction: Rockmart by 8

The Skinny

The Benedictine Cadets were ambushed at home last week and will look to get back on track Friday night. The road doesn’t get any easier, as defending Private School champion Hebron Christian comes calling.

The Cadets were led on offense by Omari Burse, who accounted for three touchdowns in the defeat. Benedictine struggled to get the passing game going, as the Cadets were held to just 111 yards through the air.

Defensively, the Cadets will have to find a way to disrupt the passing game after surrendering 258 yards through the air last week. Benedictine will need a much stronger performance on that side of the football if they hope to knock off the defending state champions.

The Hebron Christian Lions defense set the tone last week, holding their opponent to just 97 total yards, including only seven yards rushing. The Lions forced two turnovers and sacked the opposing quarterback five times in the victory.

Beau Bennett, Ryder Cole and Marley Woods led the charge, combining for 23 total tackles. Woods was especially disruptive, recording three sacks.

Meanwhile, Bennett paced the Lions offensively with 83 yards and two touchdowns. J.J. Stowers also added two touchdowns on the ground as Hebron Christian showed its ability to control the game on both sides of the football.

Keys to the Game

Benedictine Cadets

  • Shore up the run defense: The Cadets need to eliminate the big plays on the ground and force Hebron Christian to earn every yard.
  • Protect Omari Burse: Benedictine must give Omari Burse time to operate and avoid allowing the Lions’ pass rush to dictate the game.
  • Create turnovers: The Cadets need to find ways to give their offense extra possessions.
  • Get the offense rolling early: A fast start could give Benedictine the confidence it needs after last week’s disappointing loss.

Hebron Christian Lions

  • Pressure Burse: The Lions need to make Omari Burse uncomfortable in the pocket and prevent him from getting into a rhythm.
  • Continue to dominate defensively: Hebron Christian was outstanding last week and will look to carry that momentum into Friday night.
  • Establish the run: Beau Bennett and J.J. Stowers give the Lions a strong rushing attack that could put pressure on the Benedictine defense.
  • Force turnovers: If the Lions can create extra possessions, they could put themselves in position to control the game.

Prediction

Benedictine will have to have a short memory as they look to pick up their first win of the season. The great news is they don’t have to face a pass-happy attack this week. However, the Cadets will still need to shore some things up defensively, particularly against the run. Meanwhile, Hebron Christian will need to find a way to force a few turnovers and get pressure on Omari Burse to keep him uncomfortable in the pocket. The Lions look to be in midseason form defensively, and we believe they will compete. However, the long bus ride and a Benedictine team with plenty to prove could make the difference.

Prediction: Benedictine by 3

The Skinny

The Blessed Trinity Titans made quick work of Decatur last Thursday, led by an imposing defense that boasts some of the best players in the nation, namely the Jacob brothers, D.J. and Dawson.

The duo combined for five total tackles, three tackles for loss and three sacks as the Titans completely disrupted the Decatur offense. Bishop Dameron also picked off a pass, and Blessed Trinity secured its first shutout of the young season while holding Decatur to just 93 yards of total offense.

Meanwhile, M.J. Craft motored to 134 rushing yards and two touchdowns to pace the Blessed Trinity offense, including a 71-yard touchdown run.

Ty Page and Ray Luke combined to throw for 118 yards and three touchdowns while spreading the ball around to seven different receivers. The Titans showed they have plenty of weapons on both sides of the football heading into this week’s matchup.

The Milton Eagles are coming off a back-and-forth affair with North Cobb that saw the Eagles come away with a dramatic victory.

Milton was the beneficiary of a late touchdown pass from Derrick Baker to Grant Haviland, then scored the winning points on the ensuing two-point conversion to get the Eagles into the win column.

Baker threw for 192 yards, added another 83 yards on the ground and accounted for three touchdowns on the night. Sheldon Atchison led the ground game with 96 yards on 15 carries and added a touchdown.

Haviland and Deuntrey Allen each caught three passes, while Jordan Carrasquillo led the Eagles with 58 receiving yards.

Keys to the Game

Blessed Trinity Titans

  • Win the line of scrimmage: The Titans’ defensive front will need to control the trenches against a physical Milton offensive line.
  • Pressure Derrick Baker: Getting Derrick Baker uncomfortable in the pocket will be critical.
  • Get Craft going: M.J. Craft had a breakout performance last week and will look to carry that momentum into Friday night.
  • Swarm to the football: Blessed Trinity’s defense has playmakers all over the field, and its ability to rally to the football could be the difference.

Milton Eagles

  • Neutralize the Jacobs brothers: Milton must find a way to slow down D.J. Jacobs and Dawson Jacobs up front.
  • Protect Baker: The Eagles cannot allow Blessed Trinity’s pass rush to consistently put Derrick Baker under pressure.
  • Establish the run: Sheldon Atchison and the Milton rushing attack will need to keep the Titans from simply pinning their ears back.
  • Make plays in the red zone: Against a defense this talented, Milton will need to capitalize on every scoring opportunity.

Prediction

The road undoubtedly gets harder this week for the Titans, as Milton will certainly be more prolific on offense. The big question is the line of scrimmage for each team. How will Milton neutralize the attacking Blessed Trinity defense and D.J. Jacobs? But it’s not just Jacobs. The Titans swarm from everywhere on the field, and Milton will have to find a way to consistently move the football against one of the most talented defenses it will face all season.

Meanwhile, M.J. Craft had a breakout game for the Titans on offense. The question is whether he can have the same success against Blaize Battaglia and the Milton defense We believe these teams will certainly put points on the board, and look for Derrick Baker to come through in the clutch once again for Milton. He might need a little more magic on the road, but we like the Eagles to pull out a close one.

Prediction: Milton by 6

The Skinny

The LaGrange Grangers picked up an impressive win Friday night, dominating the Newnan Cougars on the road. Jadarius Render showcased his playmaking ability, recording an interception and a sack while also finding the end zone on offense with a rushing touchdown. His performance helped spark the Grangers to victory, while Deanthony Stewart added two touchdowns of his own.

The Grangers’ defense could be the developing story of this team after keeping Newnan at bay in Week 1. Robert Pipoyled the defensive effort in the victory, and LaGrange will need another strong performance on that side of the football against a Troup offense that rushed for more than 300 yards last week.

The Troup Tigers earned a shutout victory in Week 1 and did so by leaning heavily on their ground game. Javarris Warner was the workhorse for Troup, carrying the ball 25 times for 279 yards and two touchdowns. The Tigers scored six touchdowns on the ground as they controlled the game from start to finish.

Quarterback Chase Mosley completed five of 11 passes for 51 yards, while Trey Dean caught three passes for 36 yards. The Tigers’ defense was equally impressive, recording 4.5 sacks and forcing two turnovers in the shutout victory. Troup will look to carry that defensive momentum into Friday night’s rivalry matchup.

Keys to the Game

LaGrange Grangers

  • Stop Javarris Warner: Slowing down the Troup workhorse will be priority No. 1 for the Grangers.
  • Create turnovers: LaGrange made big plays defensively in Week 1 and will need to continue that trend.
  • Win third down: The Grangers need to get off the field and prevent Troup from sustaining long drives.
  • Capitalize on opportunities: LaGrange will likely have fewer possessions, making each offensive opportunity important.

Troup Tigers

  • Establish the run: With Javarris Warner coming off a 279-yard performance, Troup should look to establish the ground game early.
  • Control the line of scrimmage: The Tigers need to win the battle up front on both sides of the football.
  • Force LaGrange into passing situations: Troup’s defensive front should look to create pressure and make the Grangers one-dimensional.
  • Avoid turnovers: In a rivalry game, protecting the football could be the difference.

Prediction

Troup will look to establish the ground game on Friday, while LaGrange comes in after making several big plays defensively in Week 1. The question is whether that can continue to be a trend for the Grangers in Week 2.

If LaGrange can stop the Troup ground game, they can really make this game interesting. We believe that’s certainly possible. But we also believe the Tigers will find a way to get the ground game going when it matters most.

Prediction: Troup by 4

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TFR Georgia High School Football Rankings: Week 2: An Action Packed Week-1 shakes up the Top-10

Posted on August 23, 2026 by admin

Week 1 Summary

Most of Georgia’s top high school football teams took took to the field last week across the great state of Georgia. Some notable results included Milton’s win over North Cobb, Thomas County Central’s victory over Colquitt County, Sandy Creek’s upset of Grayson, and Toombs County’s 37-point rout of Benedictine.

As always, thank you to the Georgia Helmet Project for the artwork. You can find them here: https://www.gahelmetproject.com As well as the High School Football Historians Association for all of their historical data. You can find them here: https://hsfha.org/

Class 7A

The top of the Class 7A rankings remained unchanged this week, with No. 1 Buford and No. 2 Carrollton continuing to assert their dominance with big wins. There was significant movement at the bottom of the rankings, however, as North Cobb, Douglas County and Grayson all slipped out following losses. Taking their places are Harrison at No. 8, Norcross at No. 9 and Newton at No. 10.

Class 6A

Thomas County Central began its title defense in impressive fashion with a big win over Class 7A Colquitt County. Meanwhile, Gainesville dropped three spots following its loss to Class 7A No. 1 Buford. The biggest win of the week in Class 6A belonged to Milton, which defeated Class 7A North Cobb. The Eagles move up two spots to No. 4 this week to No. 4.

Class 5A

Cartersville held serve this week, shutting out Hiram and remaining our No. 1 team in Class 5A. Marist gutted out a win over 6A Woodward Academy and moves up to No. 2. There were also a couple of surprising results that shook up the rankings. Benedictine suffered a stunning 37-point loss to Class 3A Toombs County, causing the Cadets to tumble all the way to No. 8. Meanwhile, Central Carrollton also suffered a surprising loss, falling to 2A Heard County by 22 points. The loss knocks Central Carrollton out of the rankings and opens the door for Cass, which enters at No. 10 after defeating Flowery Branch.

Class 4A

Sandy Creek, the defending Class 3A champion, stunned Class 7A Grayson, defeating the Rams 21-13 in one of the biggest upsets of the weekend. North Hall was the only team in the Class 4A Top 10 to suffer a loss this week, falling to Greater Atlanta Christian. The Trojans tumble all the way to No. 9 following the defeat.

Class 3A

Morgan County takes over the top spot in Class 3A after No. 1 Carver-Columbus fell to Douglass, 28-7. Hot on the Bulldogs’ heels are the other Bulldogs from Toombs County, who pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the weekend by defeating Class 5A Benedictine by 37 points.

Class 2A

Heard County sent a message with its impressive win over Central Carrollton, pulling off another major upset across the state. The Braves move into the No. 1 spot this week after Thomasville suffered a loss to Cairo.

Class A

Lincoln County is perched atop Class A this week following a seven-point victory over Grovetown. Bowdon slips to No. 2 after falling to Class 2A Bremen. Mitchell County and Irwin County make their way into the rankings this week at No. 9 and No. 10, respectively.

Class 4A-2A Private

The Top 5 remained unchanged this week, with Hebron Christian holding on to the No. 1 spot. Savannah Christian won the only matchup featuring two Top-10 private-school opponents, defeating Athens Academy. The loss drops the Spartans to No. 10 after they opened the season ranked No. 6.

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Eight Greats Around the State Week-1: The Wait Is Over Part II

Posted on August 19, 2026 by admin

The GHSA Football season gets kicked off in earnest this week with a handful of games on Wednesday and Thrusday and a full slate on Friday night into Saturday. We had an apetizer last week as the Dave Hunter – Corky Kell Classic kicked off the season in the Benz. This is Part 2 of our feature, Eight Greats Around the state.

Woodward Academy vs Marist:Two Atlanta-area powerhouses meet in a matchup featuring teams coming off deep playoff runs and plenty of questions to answer. Woodward Academy advanced to the quarterfinals last season, while Marist reached the state semifinals. Both teams return talented players along the line of scrimmage, but Woodward appears to have the advantage at quarterback heading into this matchup.

Benedictine vs Toombs County: Two teams coming off state championship game appearances meet in what should be one of the most entertaining matchups of the week. Benedictine and Toombs County both return plenty of talent from their 2025 runs, but both will also be breaking in key pieces. The Cadets have a new quarterback to settle in, while Toombs County enters a new classification with an experienced offense ready to make another deep playoff run.

Calhoun vs Jefferson: Two programs with recent deep playoff experience meet in a matchup that could come down to which team adjusts fastest. Calhoun returns a veteran quarterback and plenty of offensive firepower but must replace significant production on defense. Jefferson enters the season coming off a state runner-up finish and will turn to a new quarterback while relying on an experienced stable of running backs.

Milton vs North Cobb: Milton and North Cobb meet in a matchup that already had plenty of intrigue before adding one of the biggest storylines of the week. The Eagles welcome back quarterback Derrick Baker after an injury ended his 2025 season in the opener, while North Cobb will turn to former Milton quarterback Ben Halevi. Both teams return plenty of experience, setting up what should be a tightly contested matchup.

As always, thank you to the Georgia Helmet Project for the artwork. You can find them here: https://www.gahelmetproject.com/As well as the High School Football Historians Association for all of their historical data. You can find them here:https://hsfha.org/

The Woodward Academy War Eagles are coming off a run to the quarterfinals last year and are looking for similar success in 2026. The War Eagles averaged 32.6 points per game a season ago and at one point reeled off nine straight wins before being derailed in the quarterfinals.

Woodward returns its starting quarterback, Ryan Harrigan, who threw for more than 2,000 yards last season. Harrigan will have some new targets to work with, however, as the War Eagles lose their top four receiving targets from a year ago.

Woodward does return its top running back in Princeton Woods, who ran for 640 yards on 123 carries and led the team with 10 rushing touchdowns. Woods also caught 14 passes for 156 yards out of the backfield, giving the War Eagles a versatile weapon to complement Harrigan.

Woodward’s strength might be its defense, particularly along the defensive line. The War Eagles return three All-Region performers in Myles Tate, Tory Clark, and Jack Wilson. Elijah Lyles also returns as the team’s leading tackler and is primed for another standout season.

The Marist War Eagles will be replacing plenty of talent themselves after making a run to the semifinals a year ago. The strength for Marist should once again be along the line of scrimmage, where Cooper Martenson and Hayes Remsbergwill anchor the unit.

The Marist offense is traditionally run-heavy and will likely lean on Hudson Kalb, regardless of who takes the snaps for the War Eagles when game time arrives. Defensively, Owen Hare and Lucas Rosser return to anchor the unit, along with linebacker Jack Weeks.

Marist also returns All-State kicker Tyler Baradel, who could prove to be a difference-maker if this game comes down to a few critical possessions.

Keys to the Game

Woodward Academy War Eagles

  • Protect Harrigan: With the top four receivers from last season gone, Ryan Harrigan will need time to develop chemistry with his new targets.
  • Feed Woods: Princeton Woods gives Woodward a proven weapon in both the running and passing games. Establishing him early could take pressure off Harrigan.
  • Win at the line of scrimmage: Myles Tate, Tory Clark, and Jack Wilson give Woodward plenty of experience up front. They will need to control Marist’s physical rushing attack.
  • Create pressure: Elijah Lyles and the War Eagles defense will need to force Marist into passing situations and make the quarterback position a factor.

Marist War Eagles

  • Run the football: Marist’s best path to victory may be controlling the clock and keeping the Woodward offense on the sideline.
  • Protect the quarterback: With questions still surrounding who will take the snaps, Cooper Martenson and Hayes Remsberg will be critical in keeping pressure away from the Marist quarterback.
  • Limit Woods: Princeton Woods is one of Woodward’s most versatile weapons. Marist cannot allow him to consistently create explosive plays.
  • Win the special teams battle: Tyler Baradel gives Marist a proven weapon in the kicking game. In what could be a close matchup, his leg could be the difference.

This should be another physical matchup between two programs that expect to make deep playoff runs. Marist has the ability to shorten the game and make Woodward work for every possession, but the War Eagles appear to have fewer questions to answer heading into the season.

Woodward Academy is certainly more settled at the quarterback position, while Marist is still searching for answers under center. We expect Marist to keep this game close with its ability to run the football and control the clock.

Woodward’s stability at quarterback and its experienced defense give the War Eagles the slight advantage.

Prediction: Woodward Academy by 6

The Benedictine Cadets enter the season coming off a run to the state championship game. The Cadets will have plenty of shoes to fill, perhaps none more important than at quarterback. Benedictine will turn to Omari Burse, who was efficient in limited action last season.

Burse will have a strong supporting cast around him. Eron Mallard returns as one of the state’s top big-play receivers after hauling in 32 receptions for 657 yards and nine touchdowns last season. Joining Burse in the backfield will be 1,000-yard rusher Stanley Smart, giving the new starting quarterback plenty of experience around him. The offensive line also features Noah Brainard and Collyn Ward.

Defensively, the Cadets will look to Isaac Scott to anchor the defensive line and help lead a unit that will be tested by a talented Toombs County offense.

The Toombs County Bulldogs are also coming off a run to the state championship game in 2025. The Bulldogs return a host of talent as they move up to Class 3A this season.

Quarterback Joseph Owens returns after throwing for more than 2,400 yards last season. His receiving corps remains largely intact, with Nick Carroll returning after catching 46 passes for 722 yards and seven touchdowns and Brandon Stevens coming back after recording 25 receptions for 506 yards and four touchdowns.

The Bulldogs will have some production to replace in the running game, but Donterrius Mincey, Zay Walton, and Alex Scott are expected to lead the rushing attack.

Toombs County’s defense has been one of the program’s biggest strengths in recent years. The Bulldogs allowed just 13.6 points per game last season, marking the third consecutive season they held opponents below 14 points per game. Jamarcus Johnson is a load along the defensive line, while Hayden Bullard also returns to wreak havoc up front.

Keys to the Game

Benedictine Cadets

  • Get Burse comfortable: Omari Burse doesn’t need to do everything himself, but the Cadets need him to settle in quickly against an experienced Toombs defense.
  • Establish Smart: Stanley Smart gives Benedictine a proven 1,000-yard rusher. If the Cadets can run effectively, it will take pressure off Burse.
  • Get Mallard the football: Eron Mallard is a proven big-play threat. Benedictine needs to find ways to get him opportunities in space.
  • Win the line of scrimmage: Noah Brainard, Collyn Ward, and Isaac Scott will be critical in a physical matchup against Toombs County’s front.

Toombs County Bulldogs

  • Let Owens attack: Joseph Owens returns with plenty of experience and needs to take advantage of a Benedictine defense breaking in some new pieces.
  • Feed the receivers: Nick Carroll and Brandon Stevens give Owens two experienced targets who can stretch the Cadets’ secondary.
  • Find production on the ground: Mincey, Walton, and Scott will need to help replace last year’s rushing production and keep the offense balanced.
  • Win the defensive front: Jamarcus Johnson and Hayden Bullard need to make life difficult for Burse and prevent Benedictine from establishing its ground game.

This should be one of the better games on the schedule, with both teams bringing championship-level experience and plenty of returning talent. Toombs County may have the more experienced offense, but Benedictine’s ability to run the football gives the Cadets the slight edge in what could be a high-scoring affair. How quickly Burse can take command of the Benedictine offense will certainly dictate the Cadets’ success Friday night.

Prediction: Benedictine by 6

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets enter the 2026 season looking to build off their playoff run a season ago. The Jackets were hit hard by graduation, especially on defense. Calhoun recorded three shutouts last season and allowed opponents just over 15 points per game.

Drew Huff and Hudson Chadwick will be counted on to lead the defense. Huff recorded 75 total tackles and six tackles for loss last season, while Chadwick finished with 35 tackles and two tackles for loss.

The Jackets should be just as prolific offensively as they were a year ago. Quarterback Trace Hawkins returns after throwing for 2,442 yards, 24 touchdowns and just three interceptions. Chadwick also returns at running back after rushing for 1,009 yards and 16 touchdowns. Isaiah Nalls added 421 rushing yards and five touchdowns, while Tony Reidcontributed 412 yards and three touchdowns.

Nalls has also proven to be a dangerous weapon out of the backfield, catching 14 passes for 147 yards last season. With Hawkins and several key skill players returning, Calhoun should once again have one of the more dangerous offenses in their region.

The Jefferson Dragons are coming off a state runner-up finish in 2025. The Dragons will lean on a new signal caller as Boone Horn takes over at quarterback. Horn saw limited action last season, completing 11 of 18 passes for 187 yards and a touchdown.

While the quarterback position is new, Jefferson has plenty of experience in the backfield. C.J. Hayes, Max Brown, and Eli Primm all return, with the trio combining for 1,603 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns last season.

Defensively, the Dragons will rely on Brown, Dylan Berardinelli, Jacob Berardinelli, and Primm to set the tone. Shyne Parham will lead the secondary after tying for the team lead with three interceptions last season.

Keys to the Game

Calhoun Yellow Jackets

  • Stop the run: Drew Huff and Hudson Chadwick will have to lead a defense that faces one of the state’s deepest backfields.
  • Keep Hawkins in control: Trace Hawkins was outstanding last season, and Calhoun needs another efficient performance from its veteran quarterback.
  • Establish the ground game: Chadwick, Nalls, and Reid give Calhoun plenty of options. If the Jackets can run effectively, it will take pressure off Hawkins.
  • Avoid defensive fatigue: Jefferson’s ground game is built to control the clock. Calhoun needs to get off the field and avoid allowing long, time-consuming drives.

Jefferson Dragons

  • Protect Horn: Boone Horn has limited varsity experience, so Jefferson needs to avoid putting the young quarterback in obvious passing situations.
  • Feed the backfield: C.J. Hayes, Max Brown, and Eli Primm give Jefferson three proven options. The Dragons should lean on that experience early.
  • Slow down Calhoun’s rushing attack: Brown, Dylan Berardinelli, Jacob Berardinelli, and Primm will need to control the line of scrimmage and keep Calhoun from establishing its ground game.
  • Create turnovers: Shyne Parham and the Jefferson secondary should look for opportunities to make Hawkins uncomfortable and create extra possessions.

This should be a physical matchup between two teams with legitimate playoff aspirations. Calhoun has the more experienced quarterback and plenty of offensive weapons, but Jefferson’s depth in the backfield gives the Dragons a major advantage in what should be a battle at the line of scrimmage.

The Dragons may have some questions at quarterback, but we believe their defense and running game will be enough to overcome them.

Prediction: Jefferson by 6

The Milton Eagles had a relatively early exit from the playoffs last season after winning back-to-back state championships. The Eagles lost highly touted quarterback Derrick Baker in the first game of the season, but Baker is back and healthy and will lead an offense that churned out more than 359 yards per game last season.

Baker will have a couple of big-time targets at receiver, including Jordan Carrasquillo, who caught 33 passes for 586 yards and seven touchdowns, and tight end Grant Haviland, who added 24 receptions for 343 yards and four touchdowns.

Sheldon Atchison also returns at running back after finishing second on the team with 522 rushing yards and four touchdowns last season. Atchison is a physical runner who has shown the ability to break arm tackles and create yards after contact.

Defensively, Blaize Battaglia returns as the team’s leading tackler after recording 121 total tackles, including 8.5 tackles for loss. Christian Hunter and Roman Tumminia return as key pieces along the defensive front.

The North Cobb Warriors closed out their 2025 season with a run to the second round of the playoffs. The Warriors return one of the top junior running backs in the state in Zach Belyeu, who rushed for 1,244 yards and 25 touchdowns while splitting time with Quevy Echols, who has since graduated.

North Cobb will have a new signal caller this season, and ironically, it will be Ben Halevi, who led Milton last year after Baker went down. Halevi was an All-Region performer who threw for 1,541 yards, 19 touchdowns and just two interceptions last season.

Halevi will have the luxury of throwing to Micah Billingsley, who led the Warriors with 62 receptions for 693 yards and six touchdowns last year. Expect Iago Guimaraes to also take another step forward in the receiving game.

Defensively, C.J. Williams will anchor the defensive line, while linebackers Jayden Harris and Jayden Hamlette return as the team’s top tacklers from a year ago. Trey Shaw and Marcus Singleton provide plenty of experience in the secondary for Coach Queen’s defense.

Keys to the Game

Milton Eagles

  • Protect Baker: After losing Derrick Baker in last year’s opener, keeping the quarterback upright will be priority No. 1 against a talented North Cobb defense.
  • Establish Atchison: Sheldon Atchison gives Milton a physical presence in the running game. A strong performance from him would keep pressure off Baker.
  • Win the matchup outside: Jordan Carrasquillo and Grant Haviland give Baker two proven targets. Milton needs to take advantage of those weapons.
  • Contain Belyeu: Blaize Battaglia and the Milton defense must find a way to slow Zach Belyeu, who is capable of taking over a game.

North Cobb Warriors

  • Let Halevi settle in: Ben Halevi knows the Milton system and has proven he can run an offense. Keeping him comfortable early will be critical.
  • Feed Belyeu: Zach Belyeu is one of the most dangerous running backs in the state. North Cobb needs to establish him early and often.
  • Protect Halevi: Milton has enough talent up front to make life difficult for the quarterback. C.J. Williams and the North Cobb offensive line will need to keep pressure away from Halevi.
  • Win the turnover battle: With two experienced teams and plenty of offensive firepower, an extra possession could be the difference in a three-point game.

This game was already a big-time matchup, but the storyline of Halevi facing his former team adds another layer of intrigue. Both teams have plenty of experience on both sides of the football, so this could come down to the battle at the line of scrimmage.

Most importantly, protecting the quarterback will be critical. We believe Halevi picks up where he left off for North Cobb, but Milton and Baker find a way to close out the Warriors in a tightly contested game.

Prediction: Milton by 3

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Eight Greats Around the State Week-1: The Wait Is Over Part I

Posted on August 19, 2026 by admin

The GHSA Football season gets kicked off in earnest this week with a handful of games on Wednesday and Thrusday and a full slate on Friday night into Saturday. We had an apetizer last week as the Dave Hunter – Corky Kell Classic kicked off the season in the Benz. This is Part 1 of our feature, Eight Greats Around the state.

Rome vs Carrollton: Rome opens the Bill Stewart era Friday night with a challenging matchup against a loaded Carrollton team. The Wolves return enough talent to make some noise this season, led by playmakers on both sides of the ball, but they will have their hands full against a Trojans squad loaded with depth and talent. C.J. Cypher leads a Carrollton offense surrounded by weapons, while the Trojans also boast plenty of playmakers defensively. 

Douglass vs Carver: Two of Georgia’s top Class 3A & 4A programs square off in what could be one of the most intriguing games of Week 1. Douglas is coming off a quarterfinal appearance and returns plenty of offensive firepower, while Carver enters the season as the defending 3A state champion. Both teams lost significant talent to graduation and transfers, but both appear capable of making another deep playoff run.

Trion vs Gordon-Lee: One of Georgia’s oldest high school football rivalries takes center stage Friday night as Trion and Gordon Lee renew a series that dates back to 1933. The Bulldogs have been a postseason fixture in recent years, while the Trojans are coming off the best season in program history. With both teams replacing significant production, this year’s rivalry could come down to which team adjusts the quickest.

Sandy Creek vs Grayson: The Patriots enter the matchup with plenty of returning talent, led by quarterback Caleb Hill, while Grayson will look to rebound after a disappointing opening week loss to North Gwinnett. With both teams looking to establish their identity early in the season, this one could come down to which team is able to control the line of scrimmage and avoid costly mistakes.

As always, thank you to the Georgia Helmet Project for the artwork. You can find them here: https://www.gahelmetproject.com/#google_vignette As well as the High School Football Historians Association for all of their historical data. You can find them here: https://hsfha.org/

The Bill Stewart era of Rome football begins Friday night as the Wolves face one of the state’s most talented teams in the Carrollton Trojans. Rome will be replacing several key pieces from a squad that made a run all the way to the state semifinals last season, but there is still plenty of talent returning to the field.

The defensive line should be a strength for the Wolves, with A’zyuis Adams and Jy’Quice McCrary anchoring the unit. Tylan Simpson will likely play both ways, providing experience at receiver and in the secondary alongside Greg Evans. Offensively, the Wolves will likely turn to Zayden Winston at quarterback. When Rome looks to go to the air, Winstonwill lean on Simpson and Kaiden Waters.

Meanwhile, the Carrollton Trojans may be as deep as they have ever been. They also have another highly touted young quarterback in C.J. Cypher. Cypher threw for 2,178 yards and 26 touchdowns while splitting time last season. Zach Watts will join Cypher in the backfield after putting up impressive numbers as a freshman at Carver-Columbus. Keaires Miller at tight end and Rontre Welch will provide Cypher with experienced targets in the passing game.

Defensively, the Trojans have playmakers all over the field. Junior Jamir Lee may be the best of the bunch along the line of scrimmage. Kamari Butler leads the linebacking corps, while Tyler Boyd patrols the secondary and looks to build on his first-team All-Region sophomore season.

Keys to the Game

Rome Wolves

  • Win the line of scrimmage: Adams, McCrary, and the Rome defensive front must find a way to disrupt Carrollton’s offensive rhythm.
  • Protect the football: Winston cannot give Carrollton extra possessions or short fields against a team with this much offensive firepower.
  • Create explosive plays: Rome will need Simpson, Waters, and its other skill players to take advantage of opportunities in the passing game.
  • Hang around early: Avoiding early mistakes and keeping the game close through halftime could give the Wolves confidence and put some pressure on the favored Trojans.

Carrollton Trojans

  • Establish the run: Watts and the ground game can help Carrollton create balance and keep Rome’s defense from focusing solely on Cypher.
  • Let Cypher settle in: A strong running game and quick, high-percentage throws could allow the young quarterback to find his rhythm early.
  • Control Rome’s playmakers: Carrollton must prevent Simpson, Waters, and the Wolves’ other skill players from creating explosive plays.
  • Use the depth advantage: The Trojans are loaded on both sides of the football and should look to wear Rome down as the game progresses.

This Rome team will be really good, and really soon. Teams may want to get the Wolves while they can. Rome is a proud program, and Stewart’s group will compete.

Carrollton, however, is built to compete for a state championship right now. The Trojans simply have too much talent and depth for Rome to keep this one close.

Prediction: Carrollton by 24

The Douglass Astros are coming off a season in which they advanced to the quarterfinals. Jahlil Roderique is poised to take over full time as the starting quarterback. As he continues to get settled into the position, Douglass welcomes back a pair of backs the offense can rely on. Jecori Anderson and Janarius Gooden combined for 1,266 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns last season. Zalen Green returns as the team’s leading receiver after catching 28 passes for 288 yards and three touchdowns. Defensively, John Amofah and Prince Cooper will lead the charge for the Astros.

The Carver Tigers enter the season as the defending Class 3A state champions. While the Panthers lose their leading running back to graduation and one of the state’s top young backs to a transfer, they do return a talented quarterback in Sebastian Heard. The sophomore threw for 1,715 yards, 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions last season. T.J. Woodson, who caught 14 passes for 335 yards and seven touchdowns, and Marte Sears, who had 15 receptions for 211 yards and two touchdowns, return as the team’s leading receivers.

Defensively, Jaedon Taylor returns as one of the top defenders in Class 3A. He spearheads a defense that allowed just 5.5 points per game and recorded eight shutouts last season. Daijon Daniels and Kingston Brown also return as two of the Panthers’ top defensive playmakers.

This may be one of the best matchups in the state, regardless of classification. It’s hard to believe that both of these teams lost so much talent to transfers this offseason and still appear capable of making deep playoff runs.

For Douglas, Roderique will have his hands full navigating the Carver defense. The Astros may be best served by leaning heavily on Anderson and Gooden and using their talented backfield to try to wear down the Panthers defense. That’s easier said than done against a unit that was one of the best in the state last season.

Keys to the Game

Douglass Astros

  • Lean on the running game: Anderson and Gooden give Douglas a proven combination in the backfield. Keeping the ball on the ground could take pressure off Roderique and help control the game.
  • Protect Roderique: The first-year full-time starter will face a major test against one of the state’s best defenses. Douglas needs to keep him out of obvious passing situations.
  • Create explosive plays: Green will need to make the most of his opportunities and give Douglas a way to stretch the Carver defense vertically.
  • Keep Carver off the scoreboard: The Astros cannot afford to get into a shootout with a Carver defense that allowed just 5.5 points per game last season.

Carver Tigers

  • Protect Heard: Heard returns with valuable experience, but Douglass will look to make the sophomore quarterback uncomfortable. Giving him time to work with Woodson and Sears will be critical.
  • Find a new identity in the running game: With significant production gone from the backfield, Carver will need to establish a reliable ground game to complement Heard.
  • Let the defense lead: Taylor, Daniels, and Brown are among the Panthers’ top defensive playmakers. If they can control the line of scrimmage, Carver will be in a strong position.
  • Avoid the big play: Douglas has enough offensive talent to change the game quickly. Carver’s defense must force the Astros to sustain long drives.

This is a game that could come down to the final few possessions. Douglass has enough talent to challenge the defending state champions, but Carver’s experience and defensive strength give the Panthers a slight advantage.

Prediction: Carver by 6

The Trion Bulldogs have not missed the postseason in consecutive seasons since 1989 and have now made the playoffs in each of the last five seasons. The Bulldogs return All-Region quarterback Linc Allen, who threw for 1,340 yards and 15 touchdowns with 13 interceptions last season. Most of his receiving corps from a year ago will need to be replaced, but Dawson Crane returns after catching 19 passes for 187 yards and a touchdown.

Versatile running back Landon Kimball will also be a key piece of the Trion offense. Kimball caught 11 passes for 231 yards and four touchdowns while adding 597 rushing yards and six touchdowns on the ground. Defensively, Hudson Thomas and linebacker Coleman Lee will be counted on to lead a unit that will need to improve if the Bulldogs hope to make a playoff run beyond the first round.

The Gordon Lee Trojans are coming off one of the best seasons in school history, advancing to the quarterfinals and collecting a program-record 12 victories. The Trojans will have to replace much of their offensive production from last season. Braxton Daniel is set to take over at quarterback, while Logan Price looks to build on a season in which he rushed 12 times for 80 yards.

Daniel will also be counted on defensively, as he is the team’s leading returning tackler. Sean Harms-Benafel returns along the defensive line after recording 37 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss and five sacks last season. The Trojans will need players like Daniel and Harms-Benafel to help carry a defense that will be tested by Trion’s experienced backfield.

There may be more intriguing matchups on the Week 1 schedule, but we wanted to make sure we covered one of the state’s oldest rivalries. These teams have been playing each other since 1933 and have only failed to meet during World War II.

Gordon Lee’s senior-laden team from a year ago was exactly what the doctor ordered to end the Trojans’ losing skid against Trion. This year, however, the Bulldogs appear to have the edge in the backfield and at receiver. We believe that will be enough to swing the momentum back in Trion’s direction.

Keys to the Game

Trion Bulldogs

  • Let Kimball carry the load: Landon Kimball gives Trion a proven threat both running and receiving. Getting him involved early could help the Bulldogs control the game.
  • Protect Allen: Linc Allen returns with valuable experience, but Trion needs to avoid turnovers and give him favorable situations as the Bulldogs replace several receivers.
  • Find new playmakers at receiver: Dawson Crane is the most experienced returning target, and Trion will need its new receivers to step up around him.
  • Improve defensively: Hudson Thomas and Coleman Lee will lead a defense that needs to make enough stops to allow the Bulldogs’ offensive talent to decide the game.

Gordon Lee Trojans

  • Find offensive production: With much of last year’s production gone, Braxton Daniel and Logan Price will need to help establish a new identity for the Trojans.
  • Make Daniel’s experience count: Daniel is the team’s leading returning tackler and will have to be a leader on both sides of the ball.
  • Pressure Allen: Sean Harms-Benafel and the Gordon Lee defensive front need to make Allen uncomfortable and prevent him from finding a rhythm.
  • Win the rivalry’s momentum: Gordon Lee ended Trion’s recent dominance last season. The Trojans will need to avoid allowing the Bulldogs to regain control of the rivalry.

This rivalry has produced plenty of memorable games over the years, and this year’s matchup should be another physical battle. Gordon Lee is coming off a historic season, but Trion appears to have more returning firepower at the skill positions.

The Bulldogs have the edge in the backfield and at receiver, and we believe that will be enough to put them back on top in one of Georgia’s oldest rivalries.

Prediction: Trion by 13

The Sandy Creek Patriots begin their 2026 campaign with perhaps one of the toughest two-game stretches for any team in Class 4A. The defending Class 3A state champions welcome back quarterback Caleb Hill, who passed for more than 2,600 yards a season ago. Hill will return two of his top receivers as Khaylin Stevenson and Rylan White begin their senior campaigns. The duo combined for 61 catches, 651 yards and three touchdowns last season.

Perhaps the biggest hole to fill is that of Amari Latimer, who is now taking reps in a West Virginia Mountaineers jersey. Omari Jackson will look to help fill the void left by Latimer’s departure.

Defensively, the Patriots return plenty of talent, including Corey Hadley and Nathan Holston in the secondary, along with J.T. Austin and Noah Reid along the defensive front. Sandy Creek’s defense recorded 33 sacks and forced 19 turnovers last season, and that unit will once again be a major strength for the Patriots.

The Grayson Rams will look to bounce back after getting ambushed by North Gwinnett in Week 1. Quarterback Deuce Smith put up big numbers despite the loss, throwing for 304 yards and three touchdowns. His primary target was Saif Bin-Wahad, who hauled in eight passes for 154 yards and a touchdown.

The Rams struggled to move the ball on the ground, managing just 26 total rushing yards. Statistically, the defense was not as bad as the final score might have indicated. Grayson held North Gwinnett to fewer than 100 rushing yards and 189 yards through the air. However, the defense was repeatedly put in difficult situations because of short fields, leaving the Rams’ defenders on their heels for much of the night.

We expect a bounce-back performance from Grayson this week. The biggest question is whether the Rams can get the ground game going. Sandy Creek, meanwhile, will have to continue developing its offensive identity without a proven back to pair with Hill.

We believe the Patriots will stay with the Rams for three quarters, but Grayson has enough offensive firepower to close out a tightly contested game in the fourth quarter.

Keys to the Game

Sandy Creek Patriots

  • Establish the passing game: Caleb Hill returns with plenty of experience, and getting Stevenson and Whiteinvolved early will be important.
  • Replace Latimer’s production: Omari Jackson and the rest of the Patriots’ running game must find a way to replace the production left behind by Amari Latimer.
  • Create turnovers: Sandy Creek’s defense was opportunistic last season, and Hadley, Holston, Austin, and Reidwill need to create problems for the Grayson offense.
  • Avoid giving Grayson short fields: The Patriots cannot afford to give the Rams extra possessions or easy scoring opportunities.

Grayson Rams

  • Get the ground game going: After managing only 26 rushing yards in Week 1, Grayson needs to establish some balance and take pressure off Deuce Smith.
  • Let Smith attack: Smith showed he can produce through the air. Getting him into a rhythm with Saif Bin-Wahadcould give the Rams a major advantage.
  • Finish drives: Grayson moved the ball through the air against North Gwinnett but struggled to consistently turn opportunities into points. The Rams need touchdowns instead of field goals or stalled drives.
  • Stay off the field defensively: The defense cannot continue defending short fields. If Grayson can force Sandy Creek to drive the length of the field, the Rams should have opportunities to make stops.

Sandy Creek has enough returning talent to make this a difficult game for Grayson, particularly with Hill leading the offense and a defense that has proven capable of creating turnovers.

Still, we expect Grayson to respond after its Week 1 setback. If the Rams can find some production on the ground and Smith continues to make plays through the air, they should have enough to pull away late.

Prediction: Grayson by 4

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GHSA Football Rankings: Our Pre-Season/Week-1 Top-1o in the state of Geogia

Posted on August 16, 2026 by admin

This week, we release our T0p-10 in each classifiaction for Georgia High School Football. As we do each season, we will update our rankings each Sunday. As you all know by now, the GHSA has gone to the PSR rating system to determine post season participants and seeding. That means every game really does count as we enter the 2026 season.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing the artwork. You can find their work here: www.gahelmetproject.com

We would also like to thank the work from the folks at the High School Football Historians Asosciation. You can find their work here: https://hsfha.org/w/Special:GA

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Week 12 TFR GHSA Rankings: Final Whistle as GHSA Regular Season Closes with Region Titles and Playoff Momentum

Posted on November 2, 2025 by admin

The GHSA regular season has come to a close, and the playoff picture is taking shape across Georgia. With region titles secured, rivalries renewed, and a few surprise shakeups in the final poll, the final week of regular-season action didn’t disappoint. From Carrollton’s dominant Region 2-6A title to Sequoyah’s long-awaited championship moment, teams statewide are building momentum for what promises to be an exciting postseason.

Class 6A

The top four teams in Class 6A took care of business, but there was plenty of movement behind them. Valdosta knocked off previous No. 5 Lowndes in the Winnersville Classic, sending Lowndes down three spots to No. 8 while Valdosta climbs to No. 7. Carrollton cruised past Douglas County to claim the Region 2-6A crown, dropping the Tigers to No. 10. Marietta’s brief stay in the Top-10 ended after a loss to North Paulding, opening the door for Harrison, who debuts at No. 9.

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Class 5A

Houston County secured a key win over Lee County, locking up the No. 2 seed in Region 2 and avoiding an early playoff trip to Metro Atlanta. Lee County slides to No. 9 after the loss. In another marquee matchup, Roswell edged longtime rival Milton, climbing to No. 3 while Milton falls to No. 8. And in one of the state’s best feel-good stories, Sequoyah claimed its first region title since 2003 with a 31–14 road win over rival Creekview.

Class 4A

No surprises at the top, as North Oconee, Creekside, and Central-Carroll all capped off perfect regular seasons with Halloween-week victories. In a Top-10 showdown, Cambridge edged Blessed Trinity, flipping their positions in the poll — Cambridge rises to No. 8 while Blessed Trinity drops to No. 9.

Class 3A

Sandy Creek rallied from an early deficit to defeat Troup and capture the Region 2-AAA title, completing its first undefeated regular season since 2013. Troup falls to No. 7. North Hall also finished unbeaten for the first time since 2007 after topping Dawson County. Meanwhile, West Laurens made history — earning its first region crown since 2017 and its first-ever undefeated regular season by defeating Westside Augusta.

Class 2A

Two Top-10 matchups shook up the standings this week. Morgan County beat Callaway, while Rockmart took down North Murray — sending Callaway and North Murray to No. 9 and No. 10 respectively. Appling County continued its remarkable turnaround, winning its sixth straight game and the region title after starting 1–3. The Pirates climb to No. 6.

Class A – Division I

The top eight teams held steady, but there was movement at the back of the rankings. Fitzgerald took down Jeff Davis in a Top-10 clash, knocking Jeff Davis from the poll and making room for Lamar County at No. 10. The Trojans finished undefeated for the first time since 2013 and earned their third region crown in four years. Also notable: Gordon Leecaptured its first region title since 1978, holding strong at No. 8.

Class A – Division II

Screven County edged Emanuel County Institute (ECI) by a single point to claim the region championship and remain one of only five unbeaten teams in Class A-DII. Screven rises to No. 6, while ECI drops to No. 9.

Class 3A – Private

In a clash of giants, Hebron Christian rolled past Prince Avenue 43–6 in a rematch of the 2024 state title game. Prince Avenue slips one spot to No. 3, while Fellowship Christian moves up to No. 2 behind top-ranked Hebron. Savannah Christian also slides a spot after a loss to Toombs County, and Whitefield Academy remains at No. 9 despite a loss to Fellowship.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

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TFR Georgia High School Football Rankings: Week 11 – Marietta Crashes the Class 6A Top-10 as Region Races Hit the Home Stretch

Posted on October 26, 2025 by admin

The final week of the GHSA regular season is here, and the playoff picture is heating up fast. Teams across Georgia are making their last pushes for region titles and postseason positioning. Marietta made the biggest statement of the week, storming into the Class 6A Top-10 after five straight wins, while Thomas County Central, Roswell, and Kell all tightened their grip on region races as the chase for playoff seeding hits its peak. Here is our take on the Top-10 in each classification.

Class 6A

The Top-9 teams in Class 6A all took care of business, each winning by at least two scores. Hillgrove dropped from the rankings after a loss to Harrison, opening the door for one of the hottest teams in Class 6A — the Marietta Blue Devils. After a slow start, Marietta has caught fire, reeling off five straight wins and moving within one victory of its first region title in 20 years. The Blue Devils debut at No. 10 this week.

Class 5A

Thomas County Central picked up a crucial win over Houston County to strengthen its claim to the Region 1 title. The loss sends the Bears tumbling from No. 4 to No. 8, though they still have a chance to host a playoff game when they face Lee County this week. In another Top-10 clash, Roswell outlasted Gainesville, and can clinch the region outright with a win over Milton on Friday. Gainesville slips to No. 5, while Roswell climbs to No. 4.

Class 4A

Kell made a move this week after defeating Cambridge — the two teams swapped spots in the rankings, with Kell up to No. 7 and Cambridge down to No. 9. Kell also laid a claim to the Region title with the victory. Meanwhile, Ware County was upset by Warner Robins and dropped out of the Top-10 entirely. That opened the door for Eastside, which reenters the rankings at No. 10 after closing its season with a win over Cedar Shoals.

Class 3A

Cairo was the big winner in Class 3A, earning a key Region 1 victory over Peach County. The Syrupmakers have now won seven straight and can secure the region title with a win over Westover this week. Cairo climbs to No. 7, while Peach County drops to No. 9. Sandy Creek and Troup both rolled to wins, setting up a massive Region 2 title showdown this Friday in LaGrange Between the Tigers and Patriots.

Class 2A

There were no major surprises in Class 2A, as all Top-10 teams earned wins. However, this coming Friday promises plenty of excitement with two Top-10 matchups that will decide region titles: Morgan County hosts Callaway for the Region 2 crown, while Rockmart welcomes North Murray for the Region 7 championship.

Class A – Division I

In the week’s only Top-10 matchup, Worth County took down Jeff Davis 26–14. Meanwhile, Swainsboro fell to Class 3A-A Private Top-10 program Savannah Christian, causing Swainsboro to slide to No. 10. Fitzgerald continues its late-season surge, jumping to No. 5, while Jeff Davis remains at No. 9 entering the final week of play.

Class A – Division II

It was business as usual in Class A Division II, with all Top-10 teams notching wins and no changes in the rankings this week.

Class 3A – Private

Lovett suffered another setback, falling to Class 2A No. 6 Carver (Atlanta) and dropping to No. 10. Whitefield Academy moves up to No. 9. The rest of the rankings remain unchanged. This week, all eyes turn to Region 8-AA, where No. 1 Hebron Christian hosts No. 2 Prince Avenue Christian in a showdown that could preview the private school state championship matchup later this year.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

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TFR Georgia High School Football Rankings: Week 10 – McEachern Rolls, Pierce County Stumbles as Teams Head Into Season’s Final Stretch

Posted on October 19, 2025 by admin

Week 10 of the GHSA football season brought a mix of predictability and pivotal results across the classifications. McEachern made a statement in Class 6A with a decisive Top-10 win, while Pierce County’s surprising loss in 2A shook up that poll. Elsewhere, top-ranked teams across most divisions held firm, setting the stage for crucial late-season matchups that will determine playoff positioning and region championships. Here are some notable results in each classification.

Class 6A

In the only Top-10 matchup of the week, the McEachern Indians earned a convincing 21-point victory over Hillgrove. The win puts McEachern in strong position to host a playoff game and potentially secure a region title with wins in their final two matchups—both against teams they’ll be heavily favored to beat. Hillgrove remains at No. 10 despite the loss, while the rest of the Top-10 teams in action were victorious.

Class 5A

There were no major surprises in Class 5A this week. Lovejoy dropped out of the Top-10 after a 10-point loss to Newnan, making room for Woodward Academy to re-enter the rankings at No. 10. All other ranked teams in Class 5A picked up wins.

Class 4A

No changes this week in Class 4A. Top-ranked North Oconee and No. 2 Creekside were both off, while No. 4 Benedictine impressed with a 75-point outburst against Wayne County. Every other ranked team in action also notched victories.

Class 3A

The Troup Tigers triumphed over rival LaGrange in a key region showdown, moving up to No. 6 in the rankings while LaGrange slips two spots to No. 8. Troup faces Spalding next before a likely region title clash against Sandy Creek. The rest of the Top-10 teams took care of business this week.

Class 2A

There was one notable upset in Class 2A, as Crisp County handed Pierce County a surprising loss. Unranked Appling County now leads the region at 2-0 and will face Pierce in two weeks to close the regular season. Pierce falls four spots to No. 8, while all other Top-10 teams earned wins.

Class A – Division I

Nine of the Top-10 teams in Class A Division I were victorious. Bleckley County fell out of the rankings after a 23-point loss to No. 7 Dublin, opening the door for Fitzgerald to rejoin the poll. The Purple Hurricanes earned a win over Berrien and also own a victory over ranked Thomasville.

Class A – Division II

It was business as usual in Class A Division II, as all ranked teams won their games. No changes were made to the Top-10 this week.

Class 3A – Private

Whitefield Academy enters the rankings for the first time this season after defeating previous No. 10 Landmark Christian. Meanwhile, Lovett drops three spots following a 21-point loss to Hapeville Charter.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

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TFR Georgia High School Football Rankings: Week 9 GHSA Rankings Shakeups, Surprises, and Statement Wins

Posted on October 12, 2025 by admin

Week 9 of the GHSA football season delivered a mix of dominance and drama across the classifications. While several top teams coasted through region play with decisive wins, others were pushed to the brink — and a few highly ranked programs saw their playoff hopes take a hit. From Gainesville’s statement win in Class 5A to major upsets in Class A Division I, this week’s rankings saw both stability at the top and fresh faces breaking into the mix.

Class 6A
There were no Top-10 matchups this week in Georgia’s largest classification. All nine ranked teams in action rolled to convincing wins, while No. 6 North Gwinnett enjoyed a bye. With everyone holding serve, the Class 6A Top-10 remains unchanged heading into next week.

Class 5A
The Gainesville Red Elephants claimed a key Region 7 victory over Milton, moving up two spots to No. 5. Milton slides three spots to No. 6 after the loss. Meanwhile, Brunswick was upset by Statesboro, knocking the Pirates out of the rankings entirely. That loss opens the door for Lovejoy, who makes their season debut at No. 10.

Class 4A
No changes in Class 4A this week. Top-ranked North Oconee survived a major scare from Eastside-Covington, pulling out a one-point win to stay unbeaten. Every other ranked team either took care of business or had the week off, leaving the Top-10 intact.

Class 3A
It was a clean sweep in Class 3A as all nine ranked teams in action notched victories. Among those winners were rivals LaGrange and Troup, who will meet next week in what should be a pivotal region showdown with major playoff implications.

Class 2A 

Top-ranked Carver-Columbus survived a tough road test at Sumter County, escaping with a one-point win. Despite the loss, Sumter County holds steady at No. 5 after pushing the defending champs to the brink. All other ranked teams in Class 2A picked up wins to maintain their positions.

Class A – Division I
There was plenty of shakeup in Division I as Oglethorpe County stunned Rabun County, and Fitzgerald edged Thomasville in another thriller. Thomasville drops three spots to No. 6, while Rabun County falls out of the Top-10 entirely. Bleckley County enters the rankings for the first time this season at No. 10.

Class A – Division II The lone Top-10 matchup in Division II saw Clinch County win a hard-fought 6–0 defensive battle over Brooks County. Clinch remains at No. 3, while Brooks slips one spot to No. 5.

Class 3A – Private
There was notable movement in the private school rankings as Aquinas, Greater Atlanta Christian, and Holy Innocents’ all suffered losses. Aquinas drops out of the Top-10, while GAC slides to No. 8 and Holy Innocents’ falls to No. 9. Landmark Christian makes its first appearance of the season, debuting at No. 10.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

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