GHSA Playoffs 3A Part 1 of 4

Posted on November 14, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 3A. Matchups include Cedar Grove-Fannin County, Benedictine-Monroe, Peach County-Brantley County and Calhoun-Morgan County. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Cedar Grove Saints begin their title defense this Saturday. The Saints won their third consecutive region title this season. They are on a six game win streak and have defeated four playoff teams. Cedar Grove is averaging 33 points per game while the defense is allowing 11.3. The Saints defense has shutout four out of their last five opponents.

 

The Fannin County Rebels are in the post season for the second consecutive year. Their best finish was a run to the quarterfinals in 1995. The Rebels are led by Treylyn Owensby, who has rushed for 1,350 yards and 14-TDs. Jakob Tuggle has recorded 9 sacks for the defense. Fannin is averaging 26.4 points per game while the defense is allowing the same number. Cedar Grove is poised to make another deep run this season. We like the Saints by 33 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

The Benedictine Cadets have qualified for nine consecutive playoff appearances. They have won two state titles during that stretch. The Cadets are averaging 41.7 points per game this season while the defense is allowing 20 points per game. They have defeated two playoff teams this season. Trent Broadnax has caught 38 passes for 495 yards on the season.

 

The Monroe Tornadoes are in the playoffs for the third straight season. The Tornadoes best playoff finish has been the second round, they’ve done that five times. The Tornadoes are averaging 20.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 28.1 points. Quarterback Jordan Edwards has passed for 1,426 yards and 10-TDs to lead the way on offense. Benedictine might be a little down this season, but we like them in this game by 17.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Peach County Trojans are looking to get back to the state finals for the 3rd consecutive season. This year, the Trojans won their 4th consecutive region title. The Trojans only loss was a 1-point defeat to 5A Houston County. They have defeated five playoff teams and have won seven straight games entering the post season. Peach is averaging 50 points per game while their defense is allowing 14.4. Noah Whittington and Tijah Woolfolk lead the Trojans ground game. Jaydon Gibson has passed for 1,762 yards and 20-TDs.

 

The Brantley County Herons are in the playoffs for only the 3rd time in school history. The Herons are averaging 21.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.2 points. Clifford Patton and Gavin King have combined to rush for 1,176 yards and 14-TDs for the Herons. Dawson Thomas leads the Herons with 88 total tackles. The Herons look to be moving in the right direction under Coach Geoff Cannon, but the Trojans will be too much to handle this week. We like Peach by 31.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets are making their 20th consecutive playoff appearance. The Yellow Jackets have beaten four playoff teams this season. They are averaging 33.2 points per game while the defense has only allowed 9 points per game. This is the first time since 2001 that the Yellow Jackets have not won their region. The Jackets enter this game on a six game winning streak. In this 20-year playoff run, the Jackets have only been eliminated once in the first round.

 

The Morgan County Bulldogs are in the post season for the fourth consecutive season. Morgan County is averaging 26 points per game while the defense is averaging 24.7 points per game.  Kobridgette Lumpkin and Quinton Proby lead the way for the Bulldogs on the ground. Calhoun may have taken a small step back this season, but we like them big over Morgan County this week. Yellow Jackets by 4 touchdowns.

 

 

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GHSA Playoffs 4A Part 4 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 4A. Matchups include Burke County-Americus Sumter, Sandy Creek-Denmark, Ridgeland-Madison County and Eastside-Mary Persons. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Burke County Bears won their second region title in three years and have qualified for the playoffs for thirteen consecutive seasons. Burke County is averaging 41 points per game and allowing 22.1 points. The Bears have beaten five playoff teams this season. They have been powered on offense by running backs Leon McGee and quarterback Juanya Dove.

 

Americus Sumter has reached the playoffs three times in the last four years. Their best finish has been a couple of trips to the second round. The Panthers are averaging 27.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.5 points per game. The Panthers have not beaten a playoff team this season. We like Burke County by 24 this week.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Sandy Creek Patriots have been a mainstay in the GHSA playoffs. Since 1999 the Patriots have only missed the playoffs twice. Sandy Creek beat two Region champs and four playoff teams total this season. They average 42.9 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.4 points. Brian Branch is an explosive receiver who also shines in the Patriots secondary. Sandy Creek has not lost at home this season.

 

The Denmark Danes are in the post season for the first time in the school’s short history. Quarterback Aaron McLaughlin has passed for 1,913 yards and 17-TDs. Zevian Capers has caught 39 passes for 877 yards and 10-TDs. The Danes are averaging 38.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.8 points per game. There should be a good matchup with Brian Branch going up against Capers. However, the big question will be whether or not the Danes offensive line can stop the Patriots defensive line led by Justin Beadles and Jordan Mitchell. We like the Patriots this week by 13.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Ridgeland Panthers claimed their third region title in four years. They are also in the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. The Panthers are averaging 29.7 points per game, while the defense is allowing 29.6 points per game. The Panthers are winners of their last five games coming into the playoffs. Jordan Blackwell is an explosive threat for the Panthers offense.

 

The Madison County Red Raiders are back in the playoffs for the second time in three years. The Red Raiders have never advanced past the first round of the playoffs. This season, they are averaging 18.3 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 26.1 points per game. We like the Panthers big this week at home. Ridgeland by four touchdowns.

 

 

The Skinny

The Eastside Eagles are a year removed from their best season in terms of wins in program history. Coach Hoff has the Eagles back in the post season for the fifth consecutive year. The Eagles are averaging 31.5 points per game while their defense is allowing 21.1 per game. Quarterback Noah Cook has passed for 1,648 yards and 15-TDs. As a team, the Eagles have rushed fro over 1,400 yards.

 

The Mary Persons Bulldogs are in the playoffs for the ninth consecutive season. During that stretch they have reached the semifinals twice. The Bulldogs are averaging 27 points per game while the defense is allowing 30.9 points per game. The Bulldogs have beaten three teams that qualified for the playoffs. William Stewart and Enrico Harden have combined to rush for 1,138 yards and 16-TDs. Harden has also intercepted four passes. This should be a very competitive game, but we like the Eagles at home by 4.

 

 

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GHSA Playoffs 4A Part 3 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 4A. Matchups include Carver, Columbus-Richmond Academy, Marist-Cedartown, Oconee County-Northwest Whitfield, Perry-Hampton. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Carver Columbus Tigers won their first region title since 2015. After a two-point loss in their first game of the season, the Tigers have won nine consecutive games. In all of their wins, they have scored over 30 points. They are averaging 42.9 points per game while the defense is allowing 18 points per game. Quarterback Devin Riles has passed fro 1,579 yards and 23-TDs while Khiari McCoy has rushed for 1,473 yards and 17-TDs. Ja’Cyais Credle has caught 40 passes for 580 yards and 9-TDs.

 

The Richmond Academy Musketeers have qualified for the playoffs in three consecutive seasons. They have not advanced past the second round since 1976. The Musketeers are averaging 12.7 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 18.2 points per game. Running back Rashad Williams has been led the Musketeers on offense with 612 yards and 4-TDs. We expect for Carver to win this game by four touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marist War Eagles have not missed the postseason since 1982. Last season, the War Eagles made a push all the way to the semifinals before being edged out by Cartersville. The War Eagles have beat five playoff teams this season and their only loss was a three- point overtime thriller against Blessed Trinity. Marist is averaging 36.8 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 9.5 points per game, including four shutouts. If anyone is going to slow Marist down, they will have to contain quarterback Connor Cigelske, who leads the team in rushing and passing.

 

The Cedartown Bulldogs are also a storied program in their own right. The Bulldogs are in the playoffs for the seventh time in the last nine years. The Bulldogs have beaten one team that qualified for the playoffs, but have been competitive in most of their games this season. The offense is averaging 25.1 points per game, while the defense is allowing 18.2. We believe the Bulldogs defense will keep them around, but we like the Ware Eagles to pull away late. Marist by 17.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Oconee County Warriors claimed their first region title since 2015 and have matched their best regular season win total since 2001. The Warriors are in the playoffs for the 6thconsecutive season. Quarterback Max Johnson has passed for 1,164 yards and 16-TDs, while Jimmy Boswell and Darius Norman have combined for 1,366 yards and 11-TDs on the ground. Da’shawn Elder has intercepted four passes in the secondary for the Warriors. Oconee County is averaging 30.5 points per game, while the defense is allowing 12.2 points. They have beaten seven teams that have qualified for the post season.

 

The Northwest Whitfield Bruins are in the post season for the sixth time in seven years. The Bruins are averaging 23.8 points per game and allowing 19.3 points per game. Freshman quarterback Owen Brooker has passed for 1,396 yards and 13-TDs and Gavin Ellis has rushed for 864 yards and 9-TDs. Matt Redmond has caught 49 passes for 572 yards and 5-TDs. The Bruins have beaten two playoff teams this year. If Northwest can run the ball and keep Johnson on the sideline, they should have a shot. But we like the Warriors. Oconee County by three touchdowns.

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Perry Panthers are in the playoffs for the second consecutive season and have matched their win total from a year ago. Perry had won four straight prior to last week’s game against West Laurens. The Panthers are averaging 22.3 points per game, while the defense is allowing 20.2 points per game. Quarterback Lane Rucker has passed for 1,2,13 yards and 9-TDs while Makeil Kendrick has rushed for 856 yards and 8-TDs.

 

Meanwhile, the Hampton Hornets are making their first playoff appearance in school  history. (Hampton started playing football in 2014). The 5 wins are a program best. The Hornets are averaging 16.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.4 points per game. Running back Untavias Varner and quarterback Jaivion Dorris lead the rushing attack for the Hornets with a combined 969 yards and 10-TDs.  We believe this could be a low scoring game, but we like Perry to advance this week. Panthers by 8.

 

 

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GHSA Playoffs 4A Part 2 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 4A. Matchups include Blessed Trinity-Troup, Cairo-Baldwin, West Laurens-Luella and North Oconee-Pickens. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Blessed Trinity Titans won their sixth region title in the last seven years. They are also the two time defending State Champion. We’ve had a chance to watch the Titans play a couple of times this season and they always seem disciplined and well-coached. Freshman running back  Justice Haynes has led the way for the offense this season with 1,210 yards and 14-TDs. Elijah Green has returned to the backfield, which has given the Titans a dynamic one-two punch at running back. Blessed Trinity is averaging 30.5 points per game on offense and allowing 15.4 points per game on defense.

 

The Troup Tigers are making their fourth consecutive playoff appearance. They are led by quarterback Kobe Hudson. Hudson can beat teams with his arm and his leg by evidence of his 1,449 yards passing, 923 yards rushing and 24 total TDs. Trey Williams has rushed for 1,415 yards and 14-TDs. As a team, Troup is averaging 33.4 points per game on offense and 25.2 points per game on defense. Their only losses have come to 4 playoff teams. Troup is an explosive team that should not be taken lightly. If the game is close, the edge probably goes to Blessed Trinity as they are 3-1 with games decided by 3 points or less. We think this is one of those games. We like the Titans by a field goal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Cairo Syrupmakers are no stranger to post season play. Since 1989, Cairo has only missed the playoffs 4 times. Cairo narrowly missed out on their second consecutive region title after losing to Carver-Columbus earlier this season. The Syrupmakers are averaging 37.4 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 13.4 points per game. Quarterback Matthew Peters has passed for 1,197 yards and 15-TDs, while Tay Solomon has rushed for 662 yards and 10-TDs. Matthew Peters has added 603 yards and 7-TDs.

 

The Baldwin Braves are making their fourth consecutive playoff appearance. The Braves had a challenging non-region schedule, but closed out their season winning four of their last five games. Offensively, the Braves are averaging 25.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.1 points. We believe Cairo has more weapons on offense in this matchup. Syrupmakers by 16.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Head Coach Kagan McClain has led the West Laurens Raiders to their first region title since 2014. The Raiders only loss this season was a one-point setback to South Effingham. They are averaging 37.2 points per game this season, while the defense has surrendered 10.1 points per game. Quarterback A.J. Mathis has passed for 2,101 yards and 21-TDs while Daniel Dorsey has rushed for 686 yards and 12-TDs. Brent Carr has caught 71 passes for 1,150 yards and 6-TDs. The best player on the field Friday night will probably be D’Eryck Jackson who has 89 total tackles and 8 sacks for the Raiders.

 

The Luella Lions are back into the playoffs for the first time since 2016. The Lions area averaging 13.1 points per game while their defense is allowing 19.8 points per game. The Lions have not defeated a playoff team this season. These two teams met back in the first round of the 2016 season. We like West Laurens this week perhaps by a similar margin to the 2016 game. Raiders by 21.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The North Oconee Titans have now made the postseason in ten of the last twelve seasons. The Titans have done most of their work through the air with quarterback Bubba Chandler leading the way. They are averaging 35.2 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 13.9 points per game.

 

The Pickens Dragons are in the playoffs for the second consecutive season and for the fifth consecutive season. The Dragons are a year removed from their first region title and return quarterback C.J. Streicher who can beat defenses with his arm and with his legs. Streicher and the Dragons are averaging 32.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.2 points per game. In this game of dueling quarterbacks, we like Chandler and the Titans. North Oconee by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA Playoffs 4A Part 1 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 4A. Matchups include Cartersville-Flowery Branch, Thomson-Hardaway, Woodward-Upson Lee, and Heritage-St. Pius. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes won their 8th consecutive region title this season and are also making their 8th consecutive appearance in the post season. The Canes are averaging 36.3 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 12.1 points per game, including two shutouts. Cartersville is led by quarterback Tee Webb who has passed for 2,198 yards and 22-TDs. His primary receivers have been Devonte Ross (36 receptions, 808 yards, 9-TDs) and Sam Phillips (41 receptions, 591 yards, 7-TDs).

 

The Flowery Branch Falcons are back in the post season for the third consecutive year. The Falcons have had to reinvent themselves after the season-ending injury to quarterback Elijah Gainey. The Falcons have used more of a rushing attack on their way to averaging 29 points per game on offense. They are led on the ground by Jaizen Ellingham (818 yards, 14-TDs) and Chandler White (573 yards, 4-TDs). The Falcons defense is allowing 12.9 points per game. The Falcons have defeated three playoff teams this season. The Hurricanes should overwhelm Flowery Branch this week; we like Cartersville by 24.

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Thomson Bulldogs will make their 10th consecutive playoff appearance this Friday night at the Brickyard. They come into the playoffs winning three of their last four games. The Bulldogs are averaging 27.4 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 22 points per game. Quarterback Taymarian Martin has passed for 725 yards, rushed for 964 yards and accounted for 14 total TDs. His top receiver has been Snoop Williams who has caught 23 passes for 334 yards and 3-TDs.

 

For the Hardaway Hawks, this will be their second consecutive playoff appearance. The Hawks are averaging 22.6 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 17 points per game. Hardaway has defeated only one teams that qualified for the playoffs. We like Thomson by a touchdown this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Woodward Academy War Eagles enter the playoffs undefeated for the first time since 2015. The War Eagles won their 5th region title in 6 years. On offense, Woodward is led by quarterback Mike Wright. Wright has passed for 1,876 yards and 26-TDs. His primary receivers are Jacorrei Turner and Ambe Caldwell. Woodward is averaging 38 points per game on offense and the defense is allowing 6.9 points per game.

 

Upson Lee returns to the post season for the 4th time in 5 years. The Knights deepest playoff run was back in 1993 when they made it to the quarterfinals. Upson Lee is averaging 19.2 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 28.4 points per game. Quarterback Jake Davis has passed for 1,321 yards and 8-TDs and Thad Webb has 33 receptions for 479 yards and 2-TDs. We believe Woodward has too many weapons and expect them to win big this week. War Eagles by four touchdowns.

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Heritage Generals are back in the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season. They are looking to get past the first round for the first time since 2016. The Generals are averaging 24.7 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 19.3 points per game. They are led on offense by quarterback Nick Hanson (1,387 yards 16-TDs), running backs Gabe Ogle (519 yards, 2-TDs) and Maddox Rose (406 yards, 3-TDs) . Zach Brown leads the defense with 89 total tackles.

 

The St. Pius Lions are making their 14th consecutive playoff appearance. The Lions lost a lot of production to graduation last season. They are averaging 14.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.7 points per game. The Lions have beaten three playoff teams this season. We won’t ever count out Coach Standard and the Lions, but we like Heritage at home this week by a touchdown.

 

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GHSA Playoffs 5A Part 4 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 5A. Matchups include Starr’s Mill- Harris County, Columbia-Kell, Riverwood-Loganville and Dutchtown-Statesboro. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Coach Chad Phillips has led the Starr’s Mill Panthers to their fourth consecutive region title and 6th consecutive playoff appearance. The Panthers are winners of their last five games. The Panthers are averaging 28.2 points per game, while the defense is allowing 17.1 points. The Panthers won’t throw it much if at all. Running backs Kalen Sims (1,034 yards, 8-TDs) and Ben Bodne (812 yards, 14-TDs) have helped pace the Panthers to 2,687 yards rushing as a team.

 

The Harris County Tigers  have now made it three consecutive playoff appearances. Harris County is a little more balanced on offense. Sophomore quarterback Cooper Corey has passed for 1,204 yards and 15-TDs, while Xavier Richmond has rushed for 716 yards and 5-TDs. Talique Williams (44 receptions, 658 yards, 9-TDs) and Ja’Rell Smith (38 receptions, 548 yards, 5-TDs) lead the Tigers receiving corps. Harris County is certainly battle tested playing in Region-1, but we think Starr’s Mill ground game will be tough to slow down. We like the Panthers by 13.

 

The Skinny

 

The Columbia Eagles dropped their first five games before winning four straight. They sport one of the best linemen in the state in Nazir Stackhouse. Columbia played a competitive non-region schedule. The Eagles area averaging 26.9 points per game while their defense is allowing 21.7 points per game. The Eagles have not advanced past the first round of the playoffs since 1997.

 

The Kell Longhorns are no strangers to the post-season. Since they began region play in 2004, the Longhorns have only missed the post season three times. The Longhorns are averaging 31.6 points per game, while the defense has allowed 10.6 points per game. Kell’s only two losses came at the hands of two of the top teams in Class 5A. We like the Longhorns chances this week on the road. Kell by 13.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Riverwood Raiders went undefeated for the first time in school history and also claimed their first region title. They have now qualified for the post season in three out of the last four years. The Raiders are averaging 29 points per game while the defense has only allowed 9.2 points per game. The Raiders have a balanced attack on offense and are led by quarterback Avery Smith (1,402 yards, 15-TDs) and running back Quinterio Lawson (603 yards, 6-TDs). Austin Simmons has caught 29 passes for 739 yards and 8-TDs. The Raiders have sacked opposing quarterbacks 74 times with Jonathan Brown and Kuntrevious Forbes leading the way with 19 sacks each.

 

The Loganville Red Devils are back in the playoffs for the fourth time in five years. Last year, as a number four seed, the Red Devils shocked Southwest DeKalb in the first round. This season, Loganville is averaging 20.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.4 points per game. Quarterback Tanner Greene has passed for 1,487 yards and 11-TDs this season. We like Riverwood in this matchup by three touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Dutchtown Bulldogs are in the playoffs for the third consecutive season and for the fourth time in school history. Last season, Dutchtown matched their best finish, advancing to the Quarterfinals. The Bulldogs are averaging 29.8 points per game while the defense has been very stingy, allowing only 10.8 points per game. They’ve shutout their last two opponents and have not given up a score in 10 quarters.

 

The Statesboro Blue Devils have made it back to the post season for the second consecutive season. The Blue Devils are averaging 23 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.2 points per game. They have won their last two games and have defeated three playoff teams this season. With that said, we still think the Dutchtown defense will hold the Blue Devils at bay. Dutchtown by 20.

 

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GHSA Playoffs 5A Part 3 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 5A. Matchups include Warner Robins-Jonesboro, Rome-Lithonia, Clarke Central-Lithia Springs, and Wayne County-Stockbridge. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Warner Robins Demons are our No. 1 ranked team entering the post season. The Demons only loss this season came at the hands of 7A power, Colquitt County. Warner Robins has now won three consecutive region titles and have qualified for the playoffs in each of the last nine years. Warner Robins is averaging 34.3 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 14.6 points per game. Quarterback Jalen Addie has passed for 1,875 yards and 20-TDs while Jalen Rutherford has rushed for 806 yards and 3-TDs. Receiver Marcayl Jones has caught 32 passes for 634 yards and 2-TDs.

 

The Jonesboro Cardinals have won their last two games to make it back to the playoffs for the fourth time in five years. The Cardinals are averaging 22.5 points per game while their defense is allowing 22.9 points per game. We believe the Cardinals will be outmanned this week by Warner Robins. We like the Demons by 30 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Rome Wolves are back in the post season for the fifth consecutive season. Rome most recently won back-to-back state titles in 2016 and 2017. The Wolves are averaging 39.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.8 points per game, including three shutouts. The Wolves have won six consecutive games coming into the playoffs and are led by running backs Ahlijah Blackwell (1,231 yards, 18-TDs) and E.J. Burks (721 yards, 16-TDs)

 

Lithonia has now qualified for the playoffs for four times in the last six seasons. Lithonia is averaging 25.1 poitns per game, while the defense is allowing 20 points per game. Dvont’e Slaton and Demetrius Taylor have led the way on offense for Lithonia. Rome might not be the team they were the last three seasons, but we expect them to make another deep run. Wolves by 30.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Clarke Central might as well have changed their name from the Gladiators to the “Giant Slayers” after upsetting Buford last week to claim the Region 8 title. The Gladiators won their first region title since 2011 and have qualified for four consecutive playoff berths. The Gladiators have won three consecutive games heading into the playoffs. They are averaging 33 points per game while the defense is allowing 25.2 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, the Lithia Springs Lions are in the post season for the first time since 1981. The Lions qualified for the playoffs be winning a Round Robin play-in tournament. The Lions are averaging 22.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.4 points per game. The Lithia Springs defense will need to come up big this week in order for them to advance. However, we believe Clarke will control the pace of play. Gladiators by 16.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Wayne County Yellow Jackets were denied their third consecutive region title last week when they fell to Ware County. The Yellow Jackets have now made eight consecutive playoff appearances. The Yellow Jackets are averaging 29 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 21.7 points per game.

 

The Stockbridge Tigers have now qualified for ten consecutive playoff appearances. Prior to 2010, the Tigers had only qualified for the post season once, in 1983. While the Tigers might not have the household names we were used to in the last few seasons, they’ve still managed to average a respectable 27.1 points per game, while the defense is allowing 18.8 points per game. This is definitely one of the more intriguing matchups in the 5A playoffs, we’ll take Stockbridge on the road, by 4.

 

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GHSA Playoffs 5A Part 2 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 5A. Matchups include Carrollton-Arabia Mountain, Veterans-Riverdale, Ware County-Ola, and Carver, Buford-Decatur. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Carrollton Trojans claimed their first region title since 2011 and qualified for the playoffs for the 5th consecutive season. The Trojans have advanced to the quarterfinals in the past three seasons. Carrollton is averaging 40.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.5 points per game. Quarterback Myles Morris has passed for 1,977 yards and 14-TDs. Brandon Marenco (623 yards, 3-TDs) and Mecose Todd (457 yards, 10-TDs) lead a stable of backs that have rushed for over 2,000 yards this season. The Trojans have recorded 75.5 sacks this season. Chaz Chambliss and Robert Johnson Jr. have 15 each while Kevin Swint has chipped in 12.5 sacks.

 

Arabia Mountain is in the postseason for the 4th consecutive year. The Rams have struggled to score many points in most of their games this season. The Rams are averaging 8.5 points per game this season, while the defense is allowing 25.  We expect Carrollton to win big this week. Trojans by five touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Veterans Warhawks earned the second seed in a challenging Region-1. This is the Warhawks sixth post-season appearance in the last seven years. Veterans is averaging 232 rushing yards per game and is led by Lebron Fields and his 921 yards and 8-TDs. Julian Barnes has chipped in 767 yards and 2-TDs. The Warhawks are averaging 23.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.4 points per game.

 

The Riverdale Raiders had strung together five consecutive wins at one point during the season. However, they ran up against perennial powers Starr’s Mill and Griffin to end the season. The Raiders have not made it past the 1st round of the playoffs since 2001. Running backs Phalon Daniels (896 yards, 10-TDs) and Malik Harris (602 yards, 12-TDs) pace the Raiders offense. The Raiders secondary has intercepted 16 passes this season. Riverdale is averaging 35.3 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 21.8 points per game. We believe this is the year that the Raiders get back to the second round of the playoffs. Riverdale by 6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Ware County Gators won their first region title since 2016 after drilling Wayne County last week. The Gators have won their last four games. They are averaging 26.1 points per game, while the defense is allowing 19.7 points per game. Sophomore quarterback Thomas Castellanos leads the Gators in rushing (800 yards, 15TDs) and passing (767 yards, 6-TDs).

 

The Ola Mustangs have qualified for the playoffs for only the second time in school history. Ola is averaging 28 points per game, while the defense is allowing 20 points per game. Quarterback Hunter Kautz leads the team in passing (1,460 yards, 13-TDs) and rushing (980 yards, 16-TDs). Defensively, Devin Lee has recorded 12.5 sacks. Ola’s three losses are by a combined 20 points to three of the top 15 team’s in the state. We really like the Mustang’s chances, but our gut tells us Ware by 4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Buford Wolves are in the playoffs for the 26th time in 28 years. The narrowly missed out on their 6th consecutive region title when they were upended by Clarke Central last week. The Wolves are averaging 36.5 points per game this season while the defense is allowing 14.5 points per game. Elijah Turner and Gabe Ervin Jr. lead the Wolves rushing attack.

 

The Decatur Bulldogs are in the post season for the first time since 2005. Decatur had won three straight before losing last week to Carver. The Bulldogs are averaging 24.8 points per game on offense while the defense is only allowing 13.3 points per game. Buford should have too many weapons for Decatur. We like the Wolves by 4 touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA Playoffs 5A Part 1 of 4

Posted on November 13, 2019 by admin

Today we continue with our GHSA Football Playoff previews as we look at Class 5A. Matchups include Southwest DeKalb-Hiram, Griffin-Bainbridge, Jones County-South Effingham, and Carver, Atlanta-Cedar Shoals. Please let us know if there are any errors. As always, thanks for reading! Best of luck to all teams competing this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Southwest DeKalb Panthers claimed their second consecutive region title this season. They are in the post season for the 4th consecutive year. The Panthers only loss came at the hands of Class 6A Stephenson. The Panthers outscored their opponents 338-117 this season. Quarterback Rion White has passed for over 1,400 yards on the year. His leading receivers are Aquil Muhammed, Tommy Wright, and Robert Grady. Through 9 games, the Southwest defense had forced 27 turnovers. John Grant has recorded 14 sacks this season and is one the team leaders in total tackles.

 

Meanwhile, the Hiram Hornets qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2010. Jalen Townser has rushed for 832 yards and 6-TDs while Dylan Stockunas leads the Hornets in receiving with 25 receptions for 651 yards and 4-TDs. Hiram is averaging 22.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.1 points per game. Hiram has lost their last three games, although, those were against 3 teams ranked in the top-10 in Class 5A. We like Southwest’s defense this week. Panthers by 8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Griffin Bears have only missed the playoffs once since 1996. This season, the team’s only setback was a 3-point loss to Starr’s Mill. The Bears are averaging 39.5 points per game, while the defense is allowing 11.7 points per game. The Bears have gotten plenty of offense from quarterback Darshaveious Foster (2,046 yards, 23-TDs) and Alijah King (1,177 yards, 20-TDs). Jamoi Mayes has caught 45 passes for 611 yards and 7-TDs.

 

The Bainbridge Bearcats seemingly came out of nowhere last season to win the state title. This season, the Bearcats are the No. 3 seed in Region-1. Bainbridge is averaging 28.9 points per game, while the defense is allowing 14.1 points per game. Quarterback Quayde Hawkins has passed for 1,763 yards and 16-TDs and Rashad Broadnax has rushed for 915 yards and 11-TDs. Deyon Bouie (28 receptions, 510 yards, 6-TDs) and Braxton Johnson (39 receptions, 534 yards, 4-TDs) lead the Bainbridge receivers. The Bearcats defense has recorded 24 sacks and intercepted 10 passes. Call us crazy, but we like Bainbridge on the road this week by 6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Jones County Greyhounds looked impressive all season until they were upset last Friday by Stockbridge. The game had no bearing on the region seeding however. The Greyhounds are averaging 33.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.8 points per game. Quarterback Hunter Costlow has passed for 2,352 yards and 25-TDs. His top receivers are Jontavis Robertson (46 receptions, 861 Yards, 7-TDs) and Maleek Wooten ( 44 receptions, 756 yards, 11-TDs). Andrew Carner has added 909 yards rushing and 7-TDs.

 

South Effingham is in the playoffs for the third time in the last four years. The Mustangs best finish was a run to the quarterfinals in 2012. The Mustangs did have success scoring this season, offensively, they averaged 37.8 points per game, while the defense allowed 33.3 points per game. They are led by quarterback Taylor Jackson (1,900 yards passing, 22-TDs) running back Rocko Griffin (829 yards, 15-TDs) and receivers Noah Hoang (26 receptions, 634 yards, 11-TDs) and Zachary Taylor (40 receptions, 656 yards, 5-TDs). The Mustangs have dropped their last three games. That’s not a great trend heading into the postseason. We suspect plenty of points will be scored in this game, but we like Jones County by two touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Carver Atlanta Panthers have been up and down this season. With the exception of their game against Lithia Springs, they’ve won the games we thought they should. The Panthers area averaging 28.5 points per game on offense and allowing 13.8 points on defense. Running back Jo’quavious Marks fuels the Panthers offense with over 1,700 yards rushing and 23-TDs. Marks has rushed for over 200 yards in five games this season.

 

The Cedar Shoals Jaguars are winners of their last three games and have now qualified for the post season for three consecutive seasons. The Jaguars are averaging 28.3 points per game, while their defense is allowing 20.8 points per game. The Jaguars offense is led by running back Jerdavian Colbert (1,157 yards, 12-TDs) and quarterback Jaylan Rusher (892 passing yards, 523 rushing yards, 18 total-TDs). We like Marks and the Panthers in a competitive game. Carver by 6.

 

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GHSA Playoffs 6A Part 4 of 4

Posted on November 12, 2019 by admin

We continue our previews of the first round of the GHSA Football playoffs. In this edition, our Class 6A previews feature Morrow-Brunswick, Evans-Houston County, South Paulding-North Atlanta and Harrison-Winder Barrow. As always, thank you for reading. Please feel free to share and let us know if there are any errors. Best of luck to all teams competing in the playoffs.

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Morrow Mustangs are back in the playoffs for the first time since 1998. Morrow is averaging 24.9 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 20.3 points per game. Morrow has beaten two playoff teams this season. The Mustangs enter the playoffs on a four game winning streak.

 

Meanwhile, the Brunswick Pirates will make the trip to Metro-Atlanta to face Morrow. Brunswick is averaging 24.9 points per game while their defense is allowing 22.7 points per game. Quarterback Anthony Mountain has passed for 1,672 yards and 11-TDs. Chuckobe Hill has rushed for 969 yards and 8-TDs. The Pirates have beaten two teams that qualified for the playoffs this season. This game is a toss-up in our mind, so we will go with Morrow by 1.

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Evans Knights won their second region title in three years and qualified for the post season for the fourth consecutive year. The Knights averaged 22.4 points per game on offense while allowing 15 points per game on defense. They enter this game on a 5-game winning streak. The Knights have done most of their damage on the ground. Jofranstar Graham leads the team with 737 yards and 9-TDs. As a team, the Knights have rushed for over 2,048 yards.

 

Meanwhile, the Houston County Bears are back in the playoffs for the first time in four seasons. The Bears broke a 5-game losing streak last week with a 21-16 win over Northside, Warner Robins. One of their wins earlier this season was against 3A power, Peach County. The Bears are averaging 23.9 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.7 points per game. Quarterback Max Rigby has passed for 1,812 yards and 12-TDs to lead the way for the Bears offense. Generally we believe that Region-1 is the toughest in the state. We think they may be a little down this year, but we still like Houston County to upset Evans by a touchdown on the road.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The South Paulding Spartans are back in the post season for the first time since 2015 and for the fourth time in school history.  This season, South Paulding averaged 30.4 points per game on offense and allowed 22.2 points per game on defense. Quarterback Austin Seymour has passed for 2,369 yards and 26-TDs. Thomas Marshall and Julian Beris have combined to rush for 1,358 yards and 13-TDs. Parker Self is the team’s leading receiver with 1,223 yards and 14-TDs.

 

North Atlanta is back in the playoffs for the first time since 1996 and only the third time in school history. The Warriors are averaging 30.1 points per game, while the defense is allowing 21.6 points per game. They come into this game winners of their last three games. T.K. Mack has rushed for 2,001 yards and 22-TDs on the season for North Atlanta. Tre’ Mason has also caught 26 passes for 515 yards and 4-TDs. We expect to for South Paulding to get a steady dose of Mack. But we think the Spartans will dictate the pace of play. We Like South Paulding by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

The Harrison Hoyas claimed their second region title in three years en route to qualifying for their 4th consecutive playoff appearance. Save for a 4-point victory over Allatoona, the Hoyas dominated their competition this season. They averaged 40.7 points per game while only allowing 9.2 points per game. Quarterback Gavin Hall has several weapons at his disposal including receivers Jay Ziglor, Marques Owens and Mason Babay. Meanwhile, David Roberts leads the Hoyas ground attack.

 

Winder-Barrow has qualified for the post-season for the 4th time in 5 years. The Bulldogs have faced eight playoff teams on their schedule They are averaging 25.8 points per game on offense, while allowing 32.7 points per game on defense. Jhaydon Sullivan has passed for 1,288 yards, 9-TDs while also rushing for over 700 yards on the season and an additional 13-TDs. J.C. Green has rushed for over 800 yards and added 8-TDs. Brett Landis has caught 47 passes for 790 yards and 5-TDs. At the end of the day, we believe Winder Barrow is outmatched this week. We like Harrison by 5 touchdowns.

 

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