TFR GHSA Week 5 Football Poll

Posted on September 19, 2021 by admin

As we approach the midway point of the season, we still have much to be sorted out. In many areas, Region play is starting to get under way. Here is a look at our opinion on the top teams in each classification for Georgia High School Football.

Class 7A remained unchanged as all fo the top teams in action won. In Class 6A, Lee County jumps to our top spot after Buford fell to Chaminade Madonna of Florida. The Wolves are down to No. 2. Meanwhile, Douglas County and Johns Creek find themselves in the Top-10 for the first time this season at No. 9 and No. 10 respectively.

Over in Class 5A, Blessed Trinity is back in the Top-10 after back to back wins. The Titans returned a few key pieces from injury and should be a factor again as region play starts. There were no changes to the 4A poll this week as all teams in action were victorious.

Class 3A might be one of the deepest we have seen in a while. All of the teams in action won, so there were no changes in the poll, but there are a few teams knocking on the door. One of which, is the Sandy Creek Patriots. They should be a factor in a pretty deep region. In Class 2A, Thomasville fell to 3A No. 1-Oconee County, but the Bulldogs remain at No. 4 this week. Washington County is back in the poll after they finally got on the field this season over the last two weeks and are undefeated thus far.

Class A-Public has one new entrant in the poll this week; and that is Chattahoochee County. However, we believe there are several teams waiting in the wings, including the Lincoln County Red Devils, the Charlton County Indians and the Trion Bulldogs among others. Finally, the Darlington Tigers are in the poll for the first time this season at No. 10. They’ve reeled off three straight wins after a loss in Week-1.

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 5 – Part II

Posted on September 15, 2021 by admin

We have reached Week 5 of the Georgia High School Football season and region play is beginning to get under way for several teams across the state. This is part II of our Georgia High School Football Previews that we call Eight Greats Around the State. Our games this week include Heard County-Cedartown, Prince Avenue Christian-Wesleyan, West Forsyth-Mill Creek and Westminster-Sandy Creek.

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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)

The Skinny

The Heard County Braves will look to rebound after a somewhat surprising loss to Darlington last week. The Braves should figure as a contender in the Region 5-2A playoff race later this season but up first they will have to defend home turf against Cedartown. The Braves will lean on running backs Isaiah Oneal (315 yards, 4-TDs) and Antwon Carter (281 yards, 2-TDs) to help set the tone on offense.  Oneal also leads the team in receiving with 12 receptions for 168 yards and 1-TD. The defense is allowing 12.2 points per game. Chop Swint paces Heard with 36 total tackles while Jonathan Echols paces the team with 3 sacks. Overall the Braves have recorded 12 sacks this season. 

The Cedartown Bulldogs will also look to establish the run game this Friday. C.J. Washington has amassed 186 yards and 2-TDs while Patrick Gardner has added 95 yards and 2-TDs. The Bulldogs have defeated two teams from higher classifications thus far. They are allowing 5 points per game. Eli Barrow leads the team with 19 total tackles while Demarieo Sims paces the team with 4 sacks. The Bulldogs secondary has intercepted 4 passes this season. 

Which running game will get going this week. We suspect Heard County will have a difficult time tackling the 6’2” 225lb C.J. Washington. It should be close early but we like the Bulldogs by two touchdown. 

The Skinny

The Prince Avenue Christian Wolverines have reeled off three straight wins since their opening week loss. In their three wins, the Wolverines are averaging 59 points per game. Quarterback Aaron Philo has now thrown for 1,379 yards and 15 -TDs. Philo has not thrown an interception during the three game win streak. Prince Avenue is only averaging 64.5 yards on the ground each week, so expect the Wolverines air show to continue this week. Defensively, Prince Avenue is allowing 13.2 points per game, and during the win streak that number is down to 10.6 points per game. The secondary has intercepted six passes and forced 13 total turnovers through four games. 

The Wesleyan Wolves have been getting it done with defense so far this season. In their three games to date, they have not allowed more than 13 points in a single game and are allowing 6.6 points per game. The Wesleyan secondary has intercepted four passes on the season. Offensively, the Wolves have a balanced attack, averaging 154 yards per game passing and 125.3 yards per game rushing. Quarterback Jett Miller has thrown for 443 yards and 2-TDs while Will Tucker has been the workhorse on the ground with 230 yards and 2-TDs. 

While the Wesleyan defense has been really good, we don’t believe they’ve faced an offense as potent as Prince Avenue to date. The Wolverines might not score 59 points this week, but we do like them by three touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The West Forsyth Wolverines might have scored one of the biggest upsets of the season when they defeated Walton last week. Junior running back Peyton Streko had his biggest game of the young season, rushing for 267 yards and 6-TDs to lead the way in the victory. Streko has rushed for 465 yards and 8-TDs on the season. Tight end Oscar Delp continues to lead West in receiving with 19 catches for 322 yards and 3-TDs. West Forsyth is averaging a healthy 40 points per game offensively. The one chink in the armor for them this week might be their defense, as they are allowing 27 points per game, but in their last two contests, they have allowed 38 and 35 points respectively. 

The Mill Creek Hawks are off to a 3-0 start for the first time in four years. They have been impressive on both sides of the ball, averaging 39.6 points per game will the defense is allowing just 10 points per game. Junior quarterback Hayden Clark has thrown for 551 yards and 4-TDs while running back Donovan Journey has rushed for 191 yards and 5-TDs to help pace the Hawks offense. Defensively, Mill Creek has recorded 12 sacks and 13 quarterback hurries. They’ve also forced 12 turnovers to date. 

This game should show whether or not West Forsyth is a contender or a pretender. Playing at home should give them a slight advantage, especially if the “Gulo Gang” comes out in full force Friday night and really gives the Wolverines a home field advantage. But we believe Mill Creek’s defense will have the last word. Hawks by 4. 

The Skinny

The Westminster Wildcats are back in action after the bye week and will open up region play at home.  Quarterback John Collier leads the offense and he’s got a big time receiver in TE Holden Staes. Collier is joined in the backfield by junior running back Quinton Ezzard who is a physical back with really good speed. Through three games, the Wildcats are averaging 20.6 points per game while allowing 16.3 points per game.

The Sandy Creek Patriots are undefeated thus far this season and have reversed their misfortunes of last season. Sandy Creek is averaging 32 points per game while allowing 17.6 points per game. Quarterback Geimere Latimer has thrown for 749 yards and 7-TDs while Dorian Graham has rushed for 236 yards and 4-TDs. Miles Thornton leads the team in receiving with 12 receptions for 228 yards and 2-TDs. 

These two teams did not play last season and have not met in 26 years. The winner of this game will have an inside track to a home playoff game. The big question is if the Wildcats defensive backs can keep the Sandy Creek receivers at bay. We believe it will be close, but we like the Patriots by 6.

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 5 – Part I

Posted on September 15, 2021 by admin

We have reached Week 5 of the Georgia High School Football season and region play is beginning to get under way for several teams across the state. This is part I of our Georgia High School Football Previews that we call Eight Greats Around the State. Our games this week include Tift County-Irwin County; Oconee County-Thomasville; Kell-Kennesaw Mountain; and ELCA vs Blessed Trinity.

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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)

The Skinny

The Tift County Blue Devils will try to get back on track this week after falling to Appling County last week. The Blue Devils are averaging 25 points per game while allowing just 11.5 points per game. The defense is led by 5-star UGA Commit Tyre West who is an absolute disruptor along the defensive line. The Blue Devils defense has forced 13 turnovers already this season, but they will need to get the offense back on track this weekend.

Irwin County had a huge win over Wilkinson County last week. It was the second consecutive victory for the Indians. After being held to 15 points in Week-1, Irwin County has scored 115 points in their last two games. The Indians are a run heavy team averaging over 270 yards per game on the ground. Senior Marcus Edwards leads the team in carries while Demarkus Lundy leads the team in yards with 227. The Indians defense is allowing 14 points per game. 

This is a David vs. Goliath matchup in terms of classification 7A-Tift vs 1A-Irwin. But these teams are evenly matched. In Tift County’s three wins in the series, they’ve held Irwin County scoreless so perhaps we can surmise that if Tift is able to do that again this week they will win. We don’t believe that will happen this week, so that means we believe Irwin wins. Close game, but we like Irwin by 4.

The Skinny

The Ocoee County Warriors are 3-0 and seem to be carrying the same momentum they had last season into this season. Quarterback Jacob Wright has thrown for 558 yards and 8-TDs with receiver Darios Johnson (9 receptions, 217 yards, 4-TDs) and tight end Jake Johnson  ( 10 receptions, 132 yards, 1-TD), being his primary targets. Linebacker Whit Weeks leads the Warriors in total tackles with 35 while four Warrior defenders have intercepted 4 passes this season. 

The Thomasville Bulldogs will make the 4 hour trip to Watkinsville this Friday. Thomasville has played a loaded schedule which includes three teams form larger classifications and a 2020 Class-A Public finalist. Thomasville has done most of their work on the ground this season with Malik Harper and Ricky Fulton leading the way with a combined for 632 yards and 11-TDs. Alternatively, the Bulldogs are only averaging 85 yards per game through the air. Linebacker Ty Anderson leads the team in total tackles (60), tackles for loss (10) and sacks (7). As a team Thomasville has recorded 16 sacks; an average of 4 per game. 

This game could turn into a defensive battle as both teams have linebackers that can take over games. Expect the long road trip to have an impact on the Bulldogs. Oconee County should hold serve at home. Warriors by 14. 

The Skinny

The Kell Longhorns have dropped two of their first three games to open the season. The Longhorns, a perennial playoff team, are behind the eight ball a bit in the region standings after last week’s loss. Kell is averaging a respectable 21.3 points per game, but the defense is allowing 33 points per game. Offensively, running back  T.J. Felix and quarterback Davion Hampton have led the way on the ground. Through the first two games, Hampton has thrown for 381 yards and 4-TDs. If and when David Mbadinga joins them in the backfield, it could make them a very potent trio.

The Kennesaw Mountain Mustangs have already matched their win total from 2020. They have defeated two of the top teams in the region and a win this Friday would put them in the drivers seat to host a home playoff game for the first time in school history. Quarterback Cayman Prangley has thrown for 652 yards and 8-TDs while running backs Jah Welch, Chance Arthur, and Bryan Simpkins have combined for 532 yards and 6-TDs. Senior receiver Savion Riley has caught 19 passes for 362 yards and 5-TDs. The Mustangs are averaging 34.5 points per game while the defense is only allowing 12 points per game. 

Kennesaw Mountain is riding high and we believe they are the top team in this region. We like the Mustangs by 24 this week.  

The Skinny

The Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Chargers picked up their first victory of the season after facing their third team from a high classification. No one can say the Chargers are ducking competition. In last week’s victory E.L.C.A. used the ground game to chew up 211 yards on 55 attempts and found the end zone 3 times. Quarterback Charlie Gilliam has thrown for 483 yards and 2-TDs. Brandon Hood leads the ground game with 251 yards and 5-TDs including two last week. 

The Blessed Trinity Titans got back to their winning ways last week after dropping two straight games for the first time since 2013. In their two wins the Titans are averaging 31 points per game while in their two losses they are only averaging 15 points per game. Justice Haynes returned back to the lineup last week and one has to believe he was a big reason for the increase in point production. Haynes has rushed for 354 yards and 4-TDs in two games. He isn’t the only offensive weapon for the Titans as quarterback J.C. French provides experience as a three year starter. 

Blessed Trinity won this matchup last season by a big margin. Don’t expect another blowout. E.L.C.A. will be up to the challenge, but as long as Haynes is playing, we like Blessed Trinity. Titans by 11. 

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Cherokee County Football Previews Week-5

Posted on September 14, 2021 by admin

Week-5 of the Georgia High School Football season finds all six Cherokee County teams in Action. Region 7-6A opens up region play this week, while Region 5-7A teams continue the non-region portion of their schedule. This week Sequoyah will host Johns Creek an an early season pivotal battle for region standings. Meanwhile, over in Carersville, the Cherokee Warriors will be on the road again. Will they be able to stop their two-game skid against the talented Purple Hurricanes? The Creekview Grizzlies and Cambridge Bears will meet up over off Owens Store Road for the 10th time. Cambridge has never defeated Creekview. Is this their year?

Meanwhile down in Woodstock at Eagle Mountain, the Etowah Eagles will host the high powered North Cobb Warriors. Can Etowah’s defense answer the bell again this week? Just east of downtown Woodstock, the River Ridge Knights will host the Chattahoochee Cougars. The Knights throttled the Cougars last season. Can the Hooch return the favor. Finally, the Woodstock Wolverines host the Calhoun Yellow Jackets. Can the Wolverines slow down the Calhoun fast break offense?

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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)

This Weeks Game Streams:

Sequoyah vs. Johns Creek – http://chiefstv.org

Creekview vs. Cambridge – WLJA Radio 101.1FM or wljaradio.com

Woodstock vs. Calhoun – https://mixlr.com/calhoun-yellow-jackets/

The Skinny

The Sequoyah Chiefs are coming off the bye week looking to pick up where the left off in Week-3. The Chiefs have had some time to rest up as region play starts this week. Sequoyah is averaging and astounding 333 yards per game on the ground. They are led by backs Jackson Hancock (256 yards, 1-TD); Peyton Lucas (195 yards, 1-TD), Jack Piskorz (183 yards, 2-TDs) and quarterback Matthew Traynor (169 yards, 6-TDs). Traynor has also thrown for 197 yards and 2-TDs. Carter Sandt leads the team in total tackles while the aforementioned Hancock leads the team in interceptions, with 3. 

The Johns Creek Gladiators are coming off of a big rebound win against a top 5-A program in St. Pius. The Gladiators have not shied away from top competition this season with a challenging pre-region schedule that includes Gainesville, Carrollton and of course, St. Pius. Look for T.A.Cunningham, Thaxton Gallagher and Terrian Williams to attempt to slow down the Sequoyah ground game. Meanwhile quarterback Kyle Durham and the offense will probably need more than 14 points this week if they want to leave Hickory Flat with a victory.

This is a big game for both teams as we believe both of them have the talent to make a run at hosting a first round playoff game. This might be the toughest defensive front that Sequoyah has faced this season, but we expect the Wing-T to continue to roll. Expect a close game with Sequoyah edging Johns Creek by 4. 

The Skinny

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes are coming off of a big win last week over Creekside at home. The Canes have a balanced attack; averaging 167 passing yards and 139.7 rushing yards per game. First year starter Jake Parker has thrown for 456 yards and 5-TDs while running back Malachi Jeffries leads the offense with 136 yards and 5-TDs. Cartersville is averaging 36.6 points per game while their defense is allowing 21.6 points per game. Myles Forrestal leads the Canes in total tackles. 

The Cherokee Warriors are looking to get back into the win column after dropping two straight games. Last week the Warriors were without one of their top receivers, but quarterback A.J. Swann was able to help keep his team in the game. Swann has thrown for 675 yards and 8-TDs and has not thrown an interception in his last two games. Defensively the Warriors were able to hold the explosive Creekview Grizzlies to 21 points last week. Tyler Goddard and Morgan Cox continue to be atop the leaderboard across the state with 64 and 61 total tackles respectively. 

Stop me if you’ve heard this before, but Cherokee will need to establish the ground game this week if they are going to pull the upset on the road. Cherokee held Cartersville to 12 points last season. If they can hold them to under 14 we believe the Warriors win. Unfortunately, we believe Cartersville might be more explosive on offense this year than last. Canes by 4.

The Skinny

The Creekview Grizzlies return to the friendly confines of the Grizzly den after an impressive win over county rival Cherokee last week. If you don’t know by now, the Grizzlies defense sets the tone for this team. They are sure tacklers and consistently make opposing quarterbacks very uncomfortable. The are allowing seven points per game and only start three seniors. Meanwhile on offense, Mason Hicks continues to guide the Grizzlies at quarterback. Hicks has the ability to go deep downfield but perhaps the most underrated attribute is his ability to extend plays with has pocket awareness. He’s found a go to receiver in Tristan Summers.

The Cambridge Bears come in to their matchup with Creekview undefeated on the year. The Bears return last year’s stater at quarterback Zach Harris. The Bears will work from the spread in attempts to spread out the Grizzlies defense and create mismatches. Christian Isabor is the teams leading returning running back, but last week it was Jack Marlow with two rushing and a receiving TD. 

Cambridge has never beaten Creekview. The streak will certainly come to an end…but unless they can slow down Isaac Hubert and the Grizzlies defense it won’t be this year. We like Creekview by 12.

The Skinny

The Etowah Eagles continue to improve as they search for their first win of the season. We talked about the Eagles defense last week and they did what they needed to do last week, holding the North Forsyth offense to just 14 points. The Eagles held Patrick Corrigan to just 78 yards rushing but he was able to find pay dirt twice. Etowah will need to continue to get Elijah Washington and the ground game going. Look for the Eagles to also improve through the air this week as well.

North Cobb comes into this game winners of their last two and are playing at a high level. The Warriors are averaging 36.6 points per game and allowing 21 points per game. North Cobb is a star studded team led on offense by junior quarterback Malachi Singleton. He’s thrown for 538 yards and 6-TDs and also leads the team in rushing. Singleton has a spoil of riches at receiver included players like Reggie Givhan, Sam Mbake, and Marquise Groves-Killebrew. Defensively, Josh Josephs leads the way already recording six tackles for loss in the first two games of the season,

North Cobb just has too much talent on offense for Etowah to overcome this week. We like the Warriors by 30.  

The Skinny

The River Ridge Knights are back at home after the bye week. We can expect them to by ready to get going after their offense was somewhat limited last time out. The Knights have been balanced on offense this season averaging 134 yards passing and 157 yards passing in their three contests. Quarterback Carson Lathem is completing 64% of his passes for 393 yards and 4-TDs. Last year’s Class 6-A rushing leader, Amehre Morrison has rushed for 339 yards and 5-TDs, while Jackson Head leads the team in receiving with 10 catches for 137 yards. Linebacker Dylon Persaud leads the Ridge with 24 total tackles while Brian Bradley has been a menace for opposing offenses with a team leading 12 tackles for loss. River Ridge is averaging 35.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.3.

The Chattahoochee Cougars are replacing a lot of key pieces from last year’s squad. The Cougars broke out last week against Northview after being shutout in their first two games. Chattahoochee has used a couple of different quarterbacks this season with Caleb Myers and Garrett Glass. We believe it will be Myers getting the majority of the snaps this week. The southpaw has a strong arm and has shown that he is fleet of foot. On defense, Chase Washington and Reeko Johnson will need a big game to disrupt the River Ridge rushing attack

Chattahoochee is going to have their hands full this week with a very talented River Ridge squad. If Caleb Myers can make some plays with his feet and the defense can bottle up Amehre Morrison, then the Cougars could pull the upset. We believe it’s possible, but not probably. River Ridge by 25.

The Skinny

The Woodstock Wolverines will continue their challenging non-region schedule as they host the 5A Top-10 Calhoun Yellow Jackets. Woodstock’s defense kept them in the game last week with a pick-6 early, but the turnover bug plagued the Wolverines again last week. Woodstock is showing improvement each week, but this really is an unforgiving schedule. Defensively, the Wolverines will need to limit the explosive plays and the offense will look to finish drives with scores. 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets got back to their winning ways last week as they beat Ridgeland by 49. Quarterback Christian Lewis was a perfect 14-14 in the victory. Lewis also has some big time weapons at his disposal including Cole Speer (UGA Commit), Peyton Law a 6’7” receiver, Quin Smith another talented receiver, (and Air Force Academy commit),  and Gage Leonard (Navy commit) at running back and safety who transferred over from Christian Heritage during the off-season. Currently the Jackets are averaging 39.3 points per game and while the defense is allowing 26.6 points per game, yet prior to last week’s game, they were allowing 36.5. 

For Woodstock, they need to find a way to sustain drives. Calhoun has several weapons at their disposal on offense. If the Wolverines can run the football and force a few turnovers they might have a chance to pull off the upset. We believe that is a real long shot. We like Calhoun by four touchdowns. 

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TFR GHSA Week 4 Football Poll

Posted on September 12, 2021 by admin

Another week of Georgia High School Football is in the books. Our GHSA Poll has been updated to reflect the results of last week’s action. Class 7-A saw several surprising results, highlighted by Walton falling to West Forsyth. Marietta had a big win over Camden County and moves into the poll at No. 9 this week. Over in Class 6-A, perhaps the biggest surprise was Kennesaw Mountain backing up their win over Allatoona with a huge win over Sprayberry. Kennesaw Mountain debuts in our poll at No. 10 this week.

In Class 5-A, it was Cartersville holding serve against Creekside at home. The two teams swap places in the poll, while St. Pius drops to No. 10 after falling to 6-A Johns Creek. There were not too many surprises in 4-A, both Baldwin and Flowery Branch fell to 7-A opponents on Friday, but did not drop far in the poll. The Riverdale Raiders are in this week at No. 10 for the first time this season. Meanwhile in Class 3-A there were no changes in the rankings.

Class 2-A saw Northeast fall to Dougherty while Fitzgerald beat Dodge in a battle of top-10 teams. The loss dropped Northeast to No. 8. The Lovett Lions find themselves in at No. 9 this week. Meanwhile, the top seven spots in Class A-Public remained unchanged this week. Dublin is up a spot to No. 8 while Washington-Wilkes and Montgomery County round out the top-10 at No. 9 and No. 10 respectively. Finally, in Class-A Private, Prince Avenue Christian flexed their muscle in a big win over Holy Innocents, while Aquinas quieted first Presbyterian to make their debut at No. 9 this week.

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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Posted in 2021 TFR GHSA Rankings | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 4 – Part II

Posted on September 8, 2021 by admin

Welcome to Part-2 of our Eight Greats Across the State – Week-4 of our Georgia High School Football Previews. As mentioned in Part-1 there is a fabulous slate of games on tap all across the state. First up, we look at the battle of Warner Robins as the Warner Robins Demons face the Northside Eagles. Warner Robins offense has been outstanding this far, but will the Eagles have enough to slow them down? Down in Southwest Georgia, the Thomasville Bulldogs will host the Bainbridge Bearcats. Both offenses rely heavily on the run, so the big question is which offense will get the run game rolling this week?

Up in Northwest Georgia, the Rome Wolves will face the Collins Hill Eagles. The Eagles come into Baron Stadium flying high, but will the Rome defense put an end to that on Friday? Finally down in Leesburg, the Lee County Trojans will host the Lowndes Vikings. Expect the scoreboard operator to be very busy this Friday night

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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)

The Skinny

The Warner Robins Demons offense picked up where they left off last season. In their first two games, they are averaging 49 points per game. They are doing it with a balanced attack, averaging 266 yards through the air and 284 yards on the ground. Quarterback Christon Lane has thrown for 436 yards and 4-TDs, while Malcolm Brown has rushed for 340 yards and 5-TDs through two games. Receivers Deuce Petty and Daveon Walker have combined for 18 receptions, 413 yards and 4-TDs. 

The Northside Eagles are 3-0 for the first time since 2016. The Demons have down much of their work defensively, allowing 10.5 points per game through two games. The Eagles have used a combination of quarterbacks Cameron Brown and Damien Dee to help power the offense to an average of 38 points per game.  

Warner Robins has a high powered offense. But don’t sell their defense short either. The Demons should have plenty on the defensive side of the ball to keep Northside in check. We like Warner Robins by 16.

The Skinny

The Thomasville Bulldogs are off to a 3-0 start for the first time since 2017. Through three games, Thomasville is averaging 30.3 points per game while their defense is allowing 23 points per game. Running backs Malik Harper (43 carries; 270 yards, 6-TDs), Ricky Fulton (42 carries; 142 yards, 1-TD) and quarterback Shannen White (31 carries; 114 yards, 2-TDs) help power the Thomasville offense. White has also thrown for 340 yards and 2-TDs. Linebacker Ty Anderson leads the Bulldogs with 43 total tackles including 8 for loss and 5 sacks. Thomasville has recorded 11 sacks on the season.

The Bainbridge Bearcats will be back in action this week after having last week off due to a forfeit by Valdosta. Bainbridge was held to 21 rushing yards in their first game of the season, so expect for a more concerted effort this week from Zion Bouie, Dontavious Broadnax and the rest of the Bearcats offense. A.J. Grant has emerged as a reliable target in the Bainbridge passing attack with 5 receptions for 54 yards and a touchdown. 

Thomasville looks to have a good identity in their ground game early in the season. But we expect that Bainbridge will be a little more polished after the impromptu bye week. We like the Bearcats ground game to get rolling this week. Bainbridge by 9.

The Skinny

The Rome Wolves had another dominant defensive performance this past week as they held Cherokee to 134 yards of total offense and just one touchdown last week. The defense is led upfront by Stephylan Green, Jyrine Griffin and Martel Height in the secondary. Meanwhile sophomore quarterback Reece Fountain has thrown for 339 yards and 3-TDs. The Wolves are deep at running back as well, with 4-backs having at least 12 carries. Last week it was bruising back Camron Fleminster helping set the tone for the Rome ground game.

The Collins Hill Eagles have been explosive on offense as most people around the state have expected. The combination of Travis Hunter and Sam Horn is so difficult to contain. Horn has passed for 456 yards and 3-TDs, with Hunter leading the receivers with 17 catches for 260 yards and 2-TDs. Cam Pedro has also added 10 receptions for 111 yards and a touchdown. The Eagles have already recorded 19 sacks on the season with Jaylen George leading the way with 6. Travis Hunter has also recorded an interception as he also patrols the secondary.

It should be fun to watch Rome’s Height and Collins Hill’s Hunter do battle on both sides of the ball this Friday. If Rome’s front four can get pressure on Horn, then the Wolves should be in this game at the end. We just believe Collins Hill is too deep and too explosive. Eagles by 14.

The Skinny

After a narrow three point win in Week-1, the Lee County Trojans have reeled off 124 points in two games while the defense hasn’t allowed a score over that same span. Last week the Trojans gave up a paltry 28 yards of offense to East Ridge, FL. The Defense is led by linebacker Jaron Willis and Quavion Carter. Chris Martin seems to be settling in for the Trojans at quarterback while Julius McClellan and Ousmane Kromah pace the Trojans backfield. They have the benefit of running behind Qae’shon Sapp and fullback Debo Roberts. 

The Lowndes Viking won a shootout last week against one of the top teams in Florida’s second highest classification. Jacurri Brown threw for 166 yards and 3-TDs  while Jacarre Fleming and Chase Belcher combined for 243 yards rushing and 4-TDs. On the season, Brown has passed for 523 yards and 8-TDs along with a team leading 277 yards rushing. Chris Thomas leads the team in receiving with 15 receptions for 281 yards and 2-TDs. The Vikings defense has recorded 9.5 sacks on the season with W.C. Fulton leading the way with 4.

Lee’s defense has had a great run of two straight shutouts, but we believe that streak comes to an end this week. As a matter of fact, we expect this one to be a shootout. We like Lowndes in a close but high scoring game. Vikings by 6.

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 4 – Part I

Posted on September 8, 2021 by admin

We enter the second quarter of the Georgia High School Football season with another slate of great games. Here are our Eight Greats Around the State for their week. First up the Prince Avenue Christian Wolverines hosts the Holy Innocents’ Bears. The Wolverines will look to keep rolling through the air, while the Bears will try to control the ground and the clock with the triple option who will prevail? Next up in a clash of titans, the Cartersville Purple Hurricanes will host the Creekside Seminoles. Can the Seminoles get another big win and slay another giant this week or will Cartersville hold serve at home?

Down in Cordele, the Crips County Cougars and E.L.C.A. Chargers will tangle as oddly enough, both teams are in search of their first win on the season. Finally, down in Eastman, Dodge County hosts Fitzgerald in a Class-2A top-100 matchup. Dodge County is riding the hot hand of freshman quarterback Duke Johnson, but will Fitzgerald’s defense but an end to their run?

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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)

The Skinny

After an opening round defeat at the hands of upstart Calvary Day, Prince Avenue Christian has rolled up some really big offensive numbers of the past two weeks. Despite being g held to 13 points in Week-1, the Wolverines are averaging 47 points per game this season. Quarterback Aaron Philo, (who is just a sophomore), has already thrown for 1,115 yards and 11-TDs. He has seemingly picked up where his predecessor, (Brock Vandagriff) left off. Bailey Stockton, Ethan Christian and Elijah DeWitt have been his man targets, combining for 42 receptions, 780 yards and 9-TDs. 

The Holy Innocents Bears have also been impressive in their own right. In their two games this season, the Bears are averaging 43 points per game and while the defense has already recorded a shutout. Holy Innocents is led by running backs Jacobi Murray and Drew Bomar. The two backs seem to work well in the triple option attack for Holy Innocents. Murray is a load to bring down at 240lbs and is a punishing runner. Holy Innocents won’t pass much, but they do have a budding star in Zach Jackson at receiver. 

This game will be a big contrast in styles. If it’s low scoring, we like Holy Innocents; if it’s a shootout we lake Prince Avenue. We’ll take Prince Avenue by 13.

The Skinny

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes seem to have not missed a beat from last year’s run to the finals. Quarterback Jake Parker has completed 62.5% of his passes while backs Malachi Jeffries and Khristian Lando have been getting the lion’s share of the carries, combining for 211 yards and 7-TDs. Collin Fletcher and Brynen Wilkins lead the Canes in receiving with 14 receptions for 223 yards and 2-TDs. 

The Creekside Giant Killers…aka the Creekside Seminoles come off of impressive wins defeating the reigning 7A stare champ Grayson in week one. And then to prove it wasn’t a fluke  the beat 6A semifinalist Westlake last week in a thrilling ballgame. Quarterback Nyqua Lett leads the offense as he’s demonstrated an ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs. While Lett was impressive perhaps even more impressive was the Creekside secondary that recorded 10 pass break ups last Friday night. That should come as no surprise as they boast two of the top defensive backs in the state in Roderick McCrary and Dainsus Miller. 

Weinman Stadium is a tough place to play with the Canes winning 49 consecutive home regular season games dating back to November 4th, 2011. We don’t expect for Creekside to be intimidated. We like the Noles by 6.

The Skinny

The Crisp County Cougars will be looking for their first win of the season. The road doesn’t get any easier this week with one of the toughest Class A-Private schools in the state coming to Cordele this Friday. The Cougars have a relatively balanced attack. Last week, it was Ahmad Brown taking snaps under center. Senior Marquis Palmer is the bell cow for this offense with 144 yards on 26 carries and a touchdown. Kevon Merrell continues to lead Crisp in total tackles.

The ELCA Chargers are also in search of their first win of the season. Similar to Crisp they have faced tough competition from higher classifications in their first two games. Quarterback Charlie Gilliam has thrown for 442 yards and 2-TDs. R.J. Johnson and Jacque Holley are the teams leading receivers with a combined 12 catches for 276 yards and 2-TDs. ELCA had done most of their damage through the air this season, averaging 221 yards per game through the air. 

Since joining the GHSA in 2004 ELCA has only started the season 0-3 once. This will be another tough test for the Chargers. If Crisp County can get Palmer going in the run game, it could be another long night for ELCA. This game should be much closer than last season’s 20-point margin of victory. We like ELCA by 4. 

The Skinny

The Dodge County Indians are 3-0 for the first time since 2018 and they are getting it done with  a freshman quarterback. Duke Johnson has thrown for 364 yards and 4-TDs and has added 154 yards and 3-TDs on the ground. Demron Gordon is Dodge’s overall leading rusher while Jalon Jaynes less the Indians in receiving. The Indians defense is allowing 9.6 points per game. 

The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes had a little easier time this past weekend as they downed Turner County. Look for Fitzgerald to continue to use the ground game with the duo of Jakorrian Paulk and Sylon Davis while Sultan Cooper continues to get comfortable at quarterback. E.J. Lightsey leads a defense that is allowing 13.5 points per game. 

This game could be a low scoring defensive battle with both teams looking to control the tempo on the ground. Dodge County looks to have something working with the freshman quarterback. We believe they’ll do just enough to outlast Fitzgerald this Friday. Indians by 4.

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Cherokee County Football Previews Week-4

Posted on September 8, 2021 by admin

Week-4 of the Georgia High School football season is upon us. Here is a look at the Cherokee County Football previews for this week. First up, the Etowah Eagles travel to North Forsyth. Last week, Etowah’s defense looked much improved but will they have a repeat performance and slow down an explosive North Forsyth offense? Next, Woodstock will travel to Smyrna to face Campbell. The Wolverines are looking to get their first victory, but Campbell is not the pushover they have been in recent years. Will this be the breakout week for Woodstock? Finally, Cherokee will host Creekview. So far the Grizzlies have bullied their way to victory over the county’s other 7-A schools. Will Cherokee put an end to the Grizzlies recent run or are the Grizzlies for real?

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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)

The North Forsyth Raiders are coming off of a big win last week against Dalton. The Raiders racked up 438 yards on the ground last week with a pair of rushers going over the 100-yard mark. Quarterback Drew Aucoin threw for 123 yards and rushed for 160 to lead the way last week. Patrick Corrigan also added 130 yards and 2-TDs in the big victory. Garett Achilles is the teams current receiving leader with 155 yards and 1-TD. Corrigan is also the teams leading tackler.  

The Etowah Eagles are looking to change their fortunes as the go on the road this week. Etowah’s defense was very impressive last week, holding the explosive River Ridge Knights to just 22 points. Perhaps more impressive is that they were able to keep the Class 6-A leading rusher from last season in check for most of the game. For Etowah to have repeat success, they will need another big game from their front seven. Ryan Lee, Jaiden Maddox, Billy Hendrix, Will Pailthorpe and Alex Kirby were all instrumental in really stuffing the run game a week ago. Offensively, the Eagles might have something working sophomore Elijah Washington. He seems to get stronger the more they feed him the ball.

We said this last week about Etowah, and believe it applies again this week. Ball control and sustained drives will be the key for their success. For North Forsyth, another big game from Aucoin could mean another big victory. Etowah’s offense improves this week, but North Forsyth prevails. Raiders by 17.

The Skinny

The Campbell Spartans are 2-0 for the first time since 2015. Their two wins to date already match their win total from last season. So it certainly can be surmised that the Spartans are playing with a lot of confidence. Quarterback Luke Marble has thrown for 445 and 4-TDs in two games. Running back Jomouri Phillips has continued to prove he can be a feature back for the Spartans as well. The 56 points scored last week are the most Campbell has scored since 2005.  

Woodstock comes into this game looking to continue to find their stride on offense. The Wolverines were shut out for the second time this season last week. Much of the Wolverines success this week will depend on how long quarterback Dan Comeau will have to throw. As we have mentioned in prior weeks, he has some weapons on the outside (Adonis Garcia, Nick Rule, Brady Williams, Alex Hendricks), but the big question is will the Wolverines be able to have success on the ground. 

Both teams will probably air the ball out this week and test the opposing secondaries. The edge might be with Campbell and their advantage on the ground. Woodstock should show some marked improvement this week, but we like the Spartans, Campbell by 6. 

The Cherokee Warriors will be in the friendly confines of Tommy Baker Field for the first time this season. Cherokee is coming off of a difficult game against one of the best defenses in the state. The Warriors were only able to muster 7 points against Rome with the bright spot being Caleb Richardson’s long touchdown reception. Cherokee’s defense performed relatively well, despite the scoreboard as they kept the explosive plays for Rome in check. 

The week off two weeks ago did not have any ill-effect on the Creekview Grizzlies as they picked up where they left off. The Grizzlies have now outscored their first two opponents 90-7. Last week, Tyler Stevens found pay dirt 4 times while the “Gang Green” defense only allowed 33 yards of total offense. (That’s downright dominant!) Perhaps even more impressive than the 33 yards of offense is the five turnovers that the defense forced. The Creekview Grizzlies just aren’t going to beat themselves. 

This week is definitely a step up in competition for Creekview as Cherokee has a much more potent offense than the Grizzlies first two opponents. If the Warriors can establish Zi Johnson on the ground and find a way to neutralize Issac Hubert, then Cherokee could come out on top. Something tells us that the Grizzlies are the real deal this season. This one won’t be a run away, but we like Creekview by 6.

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TFR GHSA Week 3 Football Poll

Posted on September 5, 2021 by admin

Week three brought some big surprises across the state in all classifications. Our Week-3 GHSA Football Poll reflects some of those surprises. In Class 7-A, there was no change in the poll as all teams playing won. Meanwhile in 6A it was Westlake falling to the Creekside “Giant Killer” Seminoles by seven. The loss drops Westlake one spot this week while the Creekview Grizzlies make their debut at No. 10 after their second rout of a Class 7-A opponent.

Over in Class 5-A, it was Creekside with another big win as we mention previously. However, the Seminoles did not move up because of the impressive wins of Ware County and Woodward Academy. Decatur had a huge win over G.A.C. while it was St. Pius downing Blessed Trinity to enter the poll at No. 9 for the first time this season. Meanwhile, Griffin is back in at No. 10 this week. In the Class 4-A poll, Marist drops one spot after their loss to Woodward. The Stephenson Jaguars make their debut this week at No. 9.

Down in Class 3-A, Crisp County drops out of the poll after their loss to Class 4-A Perry. Monroe Area takes their place at No. 10 this week, but watch out for Stephens County and a host of other teams vying for a spot in the poll. Over in Class 2-A, Dodge County had a big come from behind win over Class 4-A West Laurens which propelled the Indians to a 3-0 record on the season. The win also propelled them into the Top-10 after Vidalia dropped out of the poll this week.

Perhaps the biggest surprise in Class A-Public was Schley County’s shutout victory over Wilcox County. The win catapults the Wildcats in at No. 6 this week. Finally, in Class A-Private, it was Trinity Christian all over Fellowship Christian in a battle of Top-10 teams. Trinity really looks like a wrecking crew this season and might be difficult to find a team that can outscore them!

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 3 – Part II

Posted on September 1, 2021 by admin

Believe it or not after this Friday, we will be done with one quarter of the GHSA regular season schedule. Here is part two of our GHSA Football Previews we call Eight Greats Around the State.

First up in Marietta, both Marietta and McEachern will be looking to get back in the win column. Two big time quarterbacks square off in this matchup in McEachern’s Bryce Archie and Marietta’s Tyler Hughes. Who will have the hot hand on Friday night? Down in Fairburn, the Creekside Seminoles will host Westlake. The Seminoles shocked the state in their Week-1 victory over Grayson, but Westlake is one of the hottest team’s in the state. Does Westlake keep rolling or is Creekside a real giant killer?

Meanwhile in Cordele, the Crisp County Cougars will host the Perry Panthers. Crisp lost a lot of talent from last year’s team while Perry’s stock has steadily been rising. Will Crisp have enough to get their first win or will they be overpowered by Perry? Finally, it’s a battle of War Eagles as Marist hosts Woodward Academy. Marist’s defense limited Blessed Trinity to under 200 yards of offense last week. Will they be able to keep Damari Alston and the Woodward ground game in check as well?

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

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

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)

The Marietta Blue Devils will get back on the field after a bye week. Marietta got a big game from quarterback Tyler Hughes who threw for 302 yards and 4-TDs. Cameron Overton was the beneficiary of many of those passes as he caught 7 passes for 160 yards and a touchdown. On defense, it was Emmanuel Olaitan who helped pace the defense with 10 total tackles including 3 tackles for loss. 

The McEachern Indians will try to bounce back after being held to seven points last week. Quarterback Bryce Archie was limited to 115 yards passing in the loss. On the season he has thrown for 296 yards and 3-TDs. Archie has a big play threat on offense in Kaleb Webb who has caught 12 passes for 182 yards. ( He was held to just 36 yards receiving last week.) The Indians also have a one-two punch at running back with Makari Bodiford (123 yards, 2-TDs) and Peja Womack (122 yards, 1-TD). 

We believe this game should be a shoot-out with two offenses that can put up some points. Marietta has not beaten McEachern at home since 2005…We believe that streaks comes to an end on Friday. Blue Devils by 3. 

The Creekside Seminoles were off last week after shocking the state with a win over the defending Class 7-A Champions Grayson. Creekside quarterback Nyqua Lett was efficient in the victory, completing 63% of his passes for 88 yards and 2-TDs. Perhaps the biggest story however was the Seminoles defense as they limited the Grayson offense to 169 total yards. Linebacker Vincent Hill led the team with 16 total tackles including five for loss. Creekside recorded six sacks in the game last week and also forced three turnovers.

The Westlake Lions went on the road last week and put an end to Colquitt’s 23 game home winning streak. While R.J. Johnson was steady last week (67% completions, 203 yards passing, 1 rushing TD), the combination of running backs Joshua Taylor and Jai’den Thomas combined for 125 yards and two TDs. The Westlake defense also forced three turnovers in the victory. 

From the outside looking in, this might be a defensive struggle as both teams have shown they can fly around the field on defense. Westlake looks to be a little more explosive on offense, and in our opinion, that gives them a slight edge. We like the visiting Lions by a touchdown.

The Skinny

The Crisp County Cougars will look to get back on track this week after falling last week in their opener. The Cougars lost a lot of talent on defense off of last years team but do have future stars in Amir Dwight, Ke’von Merrell and Barry Walker. On offense, look for the Cougars to rely on the legs of Marquise Palmer again this week as he helps with the transition of new starting quarterback Jack Carter.

The Perry Panthers had a big opening week as they took down Houston County. Quarterback Armar Gordon went off in Week-1 as he threw for 302 yards and 3-TDs. Receiver Daequan Wright caught four passes for 108 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile it was running back by committee for Perry in Week-1 as seven backs combined to run for 165 yards and 2-TDs. 

Expect for the Crisp defense to be a little more stingy this week against Perry, but the Panthers have too many weapons on offense. We like Perry by 10 this week. 

The Marist War Eagles opened up their 2021 season with an impressive victory over Blessed Trinity Last week. Andrew Mannelly led the way with 94 yards rushing in the victory. He can be a real weapon for the ground oriented attack as he’s a bruising back that also can run away from defenders in the open field. Marist was dominant on defense keeping Blessed Trinity in check for most of the game and allowing less than 200 yards of total offense.

The Woodward Academy War Eagles are coming off of a big victory of their own, shutting out Hapeville Charter. Damari Alston leads the War Eagles on the ground with 183 yards and 3-TDs, although he was limited to 27 yards last week. Alston is also tied with the team lead in receiving with C.J. Burton. (Both with six receptions for a combined 160 yards.) The Woodward defense has been pretty good through two games allowing only 14 points.

The big questions is will Woodward have enough on defense to slow down the Marist run game. We believe it’s close early, but expect for Mannelly and Marist to grind out another win this week. Marist by 13.

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