Week 12 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews Part 2 of 2

Posted on November 5, 2019 by admin

Part II of our Week-12 Cherokee County Football previews has been published. As we mentioned in Part I, this is the last week of the season. There are still two county teams still in contention in Region 6-6A. First up, the Sequoyah Chiefs host the Allatoona Buccaneers. The Chiefs can qualify for the playoffs with a win and a Creekview loss. Next up, the River Ridge Knights travel to face the Sprayberry Yellow Jackets. The Knights are out of playoff contention but can really muddy the playoff picture if they can upset the Yellow Jackets. Finally, Creekview travels to Harrison to face the Hoyas. Harrison has already wrapped up the Region title. Creekview needs a win and a Sprayberry loss to qualify for the postseason. Please make sure to get out and support these young men on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading.  Comments and discussion are always welcome!

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Sequoyah Chiefs will host the only in game played in county this Friday as they host the Allatoona Buccaneers. The Chiefs need some help to qualify for the post-season, but first they must help themselves. The Chiefs come into the game average 21 points, while the defense is allowing 18 points per game. For the Chiefs, they’ll need to establish the run game against a stingy Allatoona defense. Myles McGee and the secondary will also need to contact Bucs receiver Asante Das.

 

Meanwhile, the Allatoona Buccaneers enter this game averaging 29.6 points per game and allowing 13.7 points per game. Alex Wilson leads the way for the Bucs on the ground with 729 yards and 6-TDs. Quarterback Dante Marshall has passed for 1,367 yards and 16-TDs. The aforementioned Asante Das leads the team in receiving with 26 receptions for 855 yards and 11-TDs. The edge in special teams goes to the Bucs as senior kicker Jude Kelley is averaging over 47 yards per punt and has been perfect on PAT attempts and is 13 of 15 in field goals, with a long of 54 yards. We believe the Chiefs will certainly put up a fight on senior night, but we think Allatoona’s defense is second to only Harrison in the region. We like the Bucs by 13 this week.

 

The Skinny

 

The Sprayberry Yellow Jackets have a chance to get back to the post season for the first time since 2011 when the host the River Ridge Knights on Friday. The Yellow Jackets got a big win against Creekview last week. Damarion Owens led the way on the ground with 180 yards rushing. Interestingly enough, the Jackets are averaging 24.6 points per game, but are also allowing the same number of points.

 

The River Ridge Knights improved to 3-6 as they beat South Cobb last week 28-21. While the Knights have been eliminated from playoff contention, they can certainly play the role of spoiler as they close out their season at Sprayberry. Amehre Morrison continues to lead the county in rushing this season. The Knights will need to find a way to get him going on offense. We are sure he will get plenty of opportunities. If the Knights can’t get him going against a talented defensive front from Sprayberry, it could be a long game. We believe Sprayberry has a few more weapons on offense and that will be the difference this week. Jackets by 21.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Harrison Hoyas have clinched the No. 1 seed in Region 6-6A, even with a loss this week against Creekview. The Hoyas are outscoring their opponents 360-82 this season. Last week, David Roberts had a big game for the Hoyas rushing for over 180 yards. Harrison has scored over 35 points in all but one game this season.

 

Meanwhile the Creekview Grizzlies need a win and then some help, (mainly a Sprayberry loss), to get into the post season. Creekview is averaging 26.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.8 points per game. The Grizzlies will have to have one of their best defensive performances of the season if they are going to pull the upset. They certainly have the weapons on offense to put some points on the board. Even then, we like Harrison this week as they just have too much firepower on offense. Hoyas by 17.

 

 

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Week 12 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews Part 1 of 2

Posted on November 5, 2019 by admin

Part I of our Week 12 Cherokee County Football Previews feature the Region 4-7A matchups. This is the final week of the regular season. Our first preview features Lassiter vs. Cherokee. The Warriors missed an opportunity to compete for a region title, but a win this week at Lassiter might improve their playoff seeding, pending other results around the region. Next up, Etowah travels to Roswell to face the Hornets. The Eagles can win the region with a win and a Walton loss. Roswell can win the region outright with a victory. Our final game features the Woodstock Wolverines facing the Walton Raiders. Woodstock is looking to end their season on a high note, while Walton can win the region with a win and a Roswell loss. Please make sure to get out and support these young men on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading.  Comments and discussion are always welcome!

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

The Skinny

 

The Lassiter Trojans will host the Cherokee Warriors this week. It’s been a long tough season for the Trojans. They have struggled most of the year getting the young offense going. Running back Shai Valencia and Wide Receiver Matthew Grachen have provided most of the offense for the Trojans. The Trojans are averaging 5.5 points per game while opposing offenses are averaging 29.8 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, barring an upset or two, the best finish the Cherokee Warriors can have this season is the No. 3 seed. But in order to do that, they’ll need to take care of business against Lassiter this week. The Warriors are averaging 21.2 points per game this season while the defense is allowing 13.5. Cherokee is 6-1 when the defense forces a turnover. Not much more needs to be said other than we like the Warriors big this week. Cherokee by 24.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

This matchup has major playoff implications. The Roswell Hornets would win the Region with a win this week. The Hornets downed Woodstock last week, and are still the best defensive team in the region. Roswell is allowing 9.5 points per game. Offensively, the Hornets are now averaging 29.5 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, the Etowah Eagles can claim the Region title with a win and a loss by Walton. Etowah’s Dalton Miller is one of the top passers in the state and has thrown for 2,197 yards this season. Miller’s top receiver is Jackson Manns. The Eagles are averaging 29.4 points per game while their defense is allowing 25.7 points per game. We believe this could be a low scoring battle. We like the Hornets at home by a field goal.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Walton Raiders can clinch a home playoff game with a win this week. They can also win the region with a win and a Roswell loss. Last week, we said we wouldn’t be against sophomore quarterback Zak Rozsman, and he didn’t disappoint as he helped lead the Raiders to a win, tossing the game winning TD last Friday. The Walton offense is averaging 20.2 points per game, while the defense is allowing 17.6 points per game. Walton has won 8 of the last 9 games in the series.

 

Meanwhile, Woodstock can certainly play spoiler and perhaps ruin Walton’s hopes of hosting a home playoff game. The Wolverines could not get much going against Roswell last week. As we mentioned last week, the Wolverines are playing better football late in the season, but they still can’t seem to get over the hump. On the season, the Wolverines are averaging 15.8 points per game, while they are allowing 25.5 points per game. The biggest question is  whether or not the Wolverines defensive backs create problems for Rozsman and the Raiders passing game. If they can they should make this game interesting. However, we believe the Raiders are up tot the task this week. We like Walton by 14.

 

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Week 11 – GHSA High School Football Poll

Posted on November 3, 2019 by admin

Our Week-11 GHSA High School Football Poll has been published. In 7A, Lowndes got a big win against rival Colquitt County and stays at No. 1 this week. Marietta’s big win over Hillgrove drops the Hawks from our poll making room for the Milton Eagles at No. 10.

In 6A, it was Dacula getting a big win over Lanier to claim the Region 8-6A title. The Falcons are up to No. 4 this week while the loss drops the Longhorns to No. 10. In 5A, Starr’s Mill edged Riverdale Saturday night. That loss drops the Raiders from the Top-10. The Veterans War Hawks makes their debut at No. 10.

In 4A, Oconee County won the battle of Hog Mountain. The win knocks their rival North Oconee out of the Top-10. Blessed Trinity may have scored the biggest win of the week, knocking off Marist in overtime. The win moves the Titans up to No. 3 while Marist falls to No. 4. West Laurens is back in our Top 10 at No. 9 this week. They have a big showdown with Perry this week for the Region crown.

There were no new teams jumping into the 3A poll. However, Pierce County defeated Appling County in a Top-10 battle. Appling falls to No. 10 this week. In 2A the Swainsboro Tigers lost to the Jeff Davis Yellow Jackets. The loss drops the Tigers from the Top-10 while Metter makes their debut at No. 10 in the poll this week.

The Class-A Public poll remains unchanged, while in A-Private, Mount de Sales Academy is in at No. 10 after North Cobb Christian’s loss to Darlington dropped them from the poll this week.

Polls are fun and can provide for spirited and healthy conversations and debates. We welcome any and all poll feedback.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in 2019 Top - 10 Polls | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Week 11 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

Part two of our Cherokee County Football previews has been published below. There are two county teams still in contention on Region 6-6A. First up, the Sequoyah Chiefs travel to Harrison to take on one of the top teams in the state. Sequoyah needs to win out to make the playoffs. Can they shock the State and the Hoyas this week? Next up, River Ridge and South Cobb will face off as they both look to close out their season on a high note. Finally, Creekview hosts Sprayberry. The Grizzlies can clinch a playoff spot with a win this week and a Sequoyah loss. Please make sure to get out and support these young men on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading.  Comments and discussion are always welcome!

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Harrison Hoyas will host the Sequoyah Chiefs for a chance to officially secure the region title. Most of the Hoyas games have not even been close this season, with the lone scare, (a 4-point victory), coming at the hands of the Allatoona Buccaneers. The Hoyas defense has shut out two of their opponents and is only allowing 9.3 points per game. Meanwhile, their offense, led by quarterback Gavin Hall, is averaging 39.7 points per game. The Hoyas were off last week and should be well rested to defend against the Chiefs rushing attack.

Sequoyah’s Jaden Mitchell got going last week with two long scoring runs. Mitchell has now rushed for 721 yards and 5-TDs. Riley Gutmann and Aidan Moore have added 401 yards and 3-TDs on the ground. Miles McGee leads the Chiefs in receiving with 334 yards and 2-TDs. Defensively, Christian Kirby (48 tackles), Christian Hodgins (47 tackles) and Grant Gibson (44 tackles) lead the team in total tackles. A win by the Chiefs will keep them in playoff contention. We believe it’s possible, but unfortunately for my Chiefs, not probable. We like the Hoyas by 16.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The River Ridge Knights play their last home game of the season as they host the South Cobb Eagles. The Knights were off last week and certainly seem to be playing much better defensively. They held Sequoyah to one offensive touchdown and were on the cusp of a potential game-tying touchdown two weeks ago before an untimely turnover sealed their fate. Look for the Knights to establish Amehre Morrison on the ground. He has rushed for 737 yards and caught 26 passes for 321 yard and 5-TDs this season.

 

South Cobb closes out their season this week. It has been a tough road for the Eagles. Their schedule included 4 Top-10 teams, three of them in Region 6-6A. The Eagles are averaging 13.1 points per game, but their defense is allowing 40.4 points per game. We believe the Knights should have plenty of opportunities to get into the end zone. And we believe they will capitalize on them as well. We like River Ridge by 23.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

While there are still plenty of variables for seeding in Region 6-6A, the Creekview Grizzlies can secure a playoff berth with a win Friday against Sprayberry and a Sequoyah loss. Last time out, the Grizzlies blanked South Cobb. It was their first shutout of the season. Brody Rhodes has now passed for 1,274 yards, rushed for 395 yards and accounted for 16-TDs. Ethan Dirrim has 43 receptions for 666 yards and 12 Total TDs. The Grizzlies defense is now up to 39.5 sacks as a team. Isaac Hubert and Nick Weeks lead the way in that category with 8.5 and 7 sacks respectively.

 

The Sprayberry Yellow Jackets are looking to bounce back and further muddy the waters in the playoff race. A week after a stellar defensive performance against Dalton, the Jackets could not contain the Chiefs rushing attack. In order for Sprayberry to have a chance to knock off Creekview, they must find a way to get Josh Bush and Damarion Owens going on offense. We believe that Sprayberry will get some things going this week, but Creekview’s defense will be the difference. We like the Grizzlies by 10.

 

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Week 11 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews Part 1 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

Part one of our Cherokee County Football Previews feature the Region 4-7A matchups. Up first, Etowah hosts Lassiter as the Eagles look to bounce back after a loss two weeks ago. Lassiter can certainly play spoiler this week to the Eagles. Next up, the Cherokee Warriors travel to face the Walton Raiders. These teams are part of a four-way tie for first place the region. This game features two talented quarterbacks, Cherokee’s A.J. Swann and Walton’s Zak Rozsman. Which one of these signal callers will guide there team to victory? Finally, the Woodstock Wolverines will host the Roswell Hornets. Woodstock has been improved over the second half of the season, but can they put points on the board against a very strong Roswell defense? Please make sure to get out and support these young men on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading.  Comments and discussion are always welcome!

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Etowah Eagles host the Lassiter Trojans this week as they continue to jockey for position in Region 4-7A. Etowah was off last week and will look to regroup after a loss against Walton. The Eagles have several weapons on offense including the county’s leading passer Dalton Miller (1,971 passing yards). Miller’s top receiver is Jackson Manns (668 yards). Remington Adams, Klivert Many, and Nick Maddox are all threats in the run game. The Eagles offense is averaging 27.7 points per game, while their defense is allowing 28.1 points per game.

 

It has been a long season for the Lassiter Trojans. They really haven’t been able to get much going on offense this season. Last week, their touchdown came from special teams. The Trojans are averaging 5.3 points per game while they are surrendering 28.2 points per game. Lassiter is probably a little outmanned this week. We like Etowah by 24.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Walton Raiders host the Cherokee Warriors this Friday night. Both teams are sitting in a four-way tie for 1st place. We won’t even begin to try to breakdown the scenarios here, but we do know that a win this week would almost guaranty a home playoff game for either team. Last week, Kenny Djaha was the workhouse for Walton as he rushed for 150 yards. Djaha, Julian Bumper and K.D. Stokes have made for a formidable rushing attack for the Raiders. Quarterback Zak Rozsman had the Raiders only score last week, but he has shown in recent weeks that he can make several throws. Teagan Bierra is one of his top targets.

 

The Cherokee Warriors would more than likely claim their first region title since 2002 with a win on Friday night and at minimum, clinch a home playoff game if they win out. The Warriors were off last week after a win against county foe, Woodstock. Keith Adams, Jr. had a big game last time out as he rushed for 135 yards and 1-TD in the win. On the season, he has rushed for 709 yards and 6-TDs. We’ve said it before, but the telltale sign for a Cherokee victory has ben their ability to turn teams over. In every victory this season, they’ve forced multiple turnovers…in both losses, they’ve not forced any. The Warriors haven’t won at Walton since 2002. We expect a defensive struggle, but something tells us not to bet against Zak Rozsman. With that said…Raiders by 2.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Woodstock Wolverines got a big Region win last week as they try to keep pace with the other four teams ahead of them in the standings. This week they’ll host the Roswell Hornets in a must win game if they want to keep any playoff hopes alive. The Wolverines seemed to have turned the corner over the last four games and while they’ve gone .500 during that stretch, they’ve been competitive and had a chance to win those two games they lost. They led in both of those games at one point.

 

Meanwhile, the Roswell Hornets come into this game needing a win to keep pace with Walton, Cherokee and Etowah. The Hornets scored a big overtime win last week against Walton. Roswell has used a balanced attack this season en route to averaging 27.7 points per game. Ethan Roberts has passed for 989 yards and 10-TDs, while Nnamdi Orijoke and Savion McCrary have combined for 711 yards and 11-TDs on the ground. Marquis Willis (26 receptions, 349 yards, 3-TDs) and John Copenhaver (32 receptions, 246 yards, 1-TD) lead the team in receiving. The Hornets Defense is allowing only 8.5 points per game with three shutouts. The defense has also recorded 32 sacks. Caden Bondurant is responsible for 9 of those. With Woodstock’s propensity to throw the ball, the Hornets will be looking to add to those sack numbers. Roswell’s defense is pretty darn good. And that’s why we like the Hornets this week by 16.

 

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Week – 11 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

This is Part II of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. Several games this week will help determine playoff seeding. Our first preview features the two top teams in Region 8-6A as Lanier hosts Dacula. Both teams are highly rated in Class 6A. Can Lanier breakthrough and finally get a win against the Falcons. Next up, The Battle of Hog Mountain will take place in Bogart as North Oconee hosts Oconee County for the 8-4A region title. This game features a great quarterback duel between North Oconee’s Bubba Chandler and Oconee County’s Max Johnson. In Class A Region 6, North Cobb Christian hosts the Darlington Tigers. Darlington has already secured the sub region title, but a perfect record is on the line this week. North Cobb Christian won this tilt last season; can Darlington return the favor? Finally, in Region 7-4A, Marist hosts Blessed Trinity. Blessed Trinity has had Marists’number in the series. The winner of this game will earn the region title. Can the Ware Eagles slow down the Blessed trinity dynamic duo at running back. Or will Connor Cigelske lead the War Eagles to victory?  As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Lanier Longhorns are looking for their first win over the Dacula Falcons and their first region title since 2015. Taj Barnes has led the way on the ground for the Longhorns as he’s rushed for 1,108 yards and 13-TDs. Quarterback Andrew Blackford has passed for 1,022 yards and 15-TDs. Cole Thornton has been his primary target with 25 receptions, 478 yards, and 9-TDs. The Longhorns offense is averaging 32.2 points per game while their defense is allowing 11.7 points per game. The Lanier defense has 29 sacks on the season; Phillip Webb leads the way with 10.

 

The Dacula Falcons are one of the top ranked teams in the state and with a win this week, they will almost certainly lay claim to their 4th consecutive region title. Trenton Jones and Kyle Efford have combined for 1,224 yards rushing and 16-TDs. Quarterback Jarrett Jenkins has passed for 1,395 yards and 10-TDs. Konata Mumpfield leads the team in receiving (26 receptions, 414 yards, 6-TDs) and interceptions (3). The Dacula defense is allowing 9.9 points per game. They’ve shut out four opponents and have not allowed a touchdown in 11 quarters. This game should be closer than the previous three, but we still like the Falcons by 6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The North Oconee Titans will host the Oconee County Warriors for the Region 8-4A title. The Titans are off to their best start since 2011. They are averaging 38.3 points per game this season. Entering last week’s game, Bubba Chandler has passed for over 1,300 yards. The UGA baseball commit has put up some bug numbers this season. The Titans area allowing 11.5 points per game and have one shutout to their credit.

 

Meanwhile, the Oconee County Warriors are looking for their first region title since 2015. The Warriors are averaging 28.5 points per game and are led by LSU QB commit, Max Johnson. Ben Noland and Jake Johnson are his two top receivers while Jimmy Boswell and Darius Norman are the teams leading rushers. The Oconee County Defense is allowing 12.6 points per game. We like for Bubba to outduel Max this week. Titans by 9.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Darlington Tigers have already clinched the sub-region title. The Tigers are outscoring their opponents this season 297-69. They have three shutouts to their credit. Griffin Brewster was very efficient last week completing 10 of his 12 pass attempts for 147 yards and a touchdown. Running back Kolin Rogers has rushed for over 1,000 yards on the season and has the benefit of running behind an OL anchored by Tate Ratledge and Cade Brock.

 

While North Cobb Christian can’t derail the Tigers sub region title, they can derail their perfect season. Last week, the Eagles were edged by Christian Heritage on a blocked PAT. The Eagles two losses have come at a combined 7 points. Defensively, North Cobb is allowing 11.2 points per game. The big question is whether or not the Eagles can get the ground game moving against Darlington. Last week, the Eagles fumbled the ball three times, so they’ll certainly have to make ball security a priority this weekend if they are going to pull the upset. Even if North Cobb doesn’t turn it over, we still like Darlington to win this one by 10 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marist War Eagles will host the Blessed Trinity Titans this week. A War Eagle victory would secure their first region title in two years. The Marist defense has been stifling this season, allowing only 6.8 points per game. They’ve shut out four of their opponents this season. Connor Cigelske had another big game last week as he rushed for 171 yards and passed for 112 yards with 4 total TDs. The Marist defense also forced two turnovers last week in the victory.

 

The Blessed Trinity Titans are also in search of their second consecutive region title. With a win this week and next, the Titans will have done just that. Similar to the Marist, the Titans have relied heavily on the run. Freshman Justice Haynes has led the way on the ground this season. But the Titans also have a healthy Elijah Green in the backfield as well, which makes for a very dangerous combination for opposing defenses. The Titans offense is averaging 29.6 points per game while their defense is allowing only 14.7 points per game. The largest margin of victory in this series is 9 points. We think this is another defensive battle, but we like Marist by a field goal this week

 

 

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Week – 11 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 1 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

This is Part I of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. Several games this week will help determine playoff seeding. Our first preview features a big show down in Region 2-3A as the Pierce County Bears host the Appling County Pirates. Pierce is looking for their second consecutive region title, but Coach Tomberlin has the Pirates playing well. So, who’s rushing attack will reign supreme Friday night? In Region 3-5A, the Riverdale Raiders host the Starr’s Mill Panthers. The Raiders only loss is a 13-point setback to highly ranked Carrollton. But Starr’s Mill has won the last three region titles and looks like they aren’t quite ready to release their stranglehold on the region. Another big game for seeding takes place in Region 3-7A as Marietta takes on Hillgrove. Both of these teams were edged by McEachern, but a win this week by either team would help secure at least a first round home playoff game. Finally, Region 1-7A comes down to a matchup between Lowndes and Colquitt County. Since 2014 Colquitt has won the region all but one time and that was in 2017, when the Vikings claimed the Region title. Will the Packers air assault or the Vikings ground game rule the night in this matchup?  As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

We’ve been catching a little flack about our No. 1 Ranking for Pierce County. But all the Bears have done this season is win. Certainly the most difficult part of their schedule is in front of them, and the Appling County Pirates should present a stiff test. The Bears are averaging 43.2 points per game and are allowing 10.2 points per game. L.J. Newton has rushed for 665 yards and 10-TDs. Quarterback Jermaine Brewton has passed for 977 yards and 9-TDs and has added 295 yards and 4-TDs rushing.

 

The Appling County Pirates are off to their best start since 2011. Coach Rick Tomberlin has the Pirates in a position to compete for a region title if they can win their last two games. As a team, Appling County has racked up 2,284 yards rushing. Sharrod Roberts (536 yards, 7-TDs) and R.J. Conaway (465 yards, 6-TDs) lead the ground attack. Keyshawn Walker and Matthew Nails have combined for 14 receptions for 311 yards and 4-TDs. The Pirates are only allowing 10.3 points per game this season and have two shutouts. We believe Pierce survives a scare from Appling this week. Bears by 2.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Riverdale Raiders are off to another great start in region play, but this week begins a two game stretch that will determine if the Raiders can capture their first region title since 1998. Quarterback Avaun Rucker has passed for 1,063 yards and 13-TDs. His leading receiver has been Derwin Burgess with 22 receptions for 386 yards and 5-TDs. Meanwhile, Phalon Daniels (741 yards, 8-TDs) and Malik Harris (575 yards, 11-TDs) lead the Raiders ground game. As a team they’ve rushed for 1,867 yards. The defense is allowing 16.1 points per game, but perhaps most impressive are the 15 interceptions they’ve made. Sophomore Larrence George leads the team with 3 picks.

 

The Starr’s Mill Panthers have won the last three region titles, but will need to win out in order to claim their 4th consecutive title. The Panthers will look to get their ground game going this week. Kalen Sims (784 yards, 4-TDs) and Ben Bodne (646 yards, 12-TDs) lead the way for the Panthers who have rushed for 2,071 yards as a team. Starr’s Mill has only passed for 331 yards this season. The Starr’s Mill defense is allowing 12.8 points per game and has two shutouts to their credit. This game should be much closer than last hears 23-point Starr’s Mill victory…but we still like the Panthers by 8 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

As it stands right now, this game does not have region title implications, assuming McEachern remains undefeated. However, a home playoff game could be at stake when the Marietta Blue Devils host the Hillgrove Hawks this Friday. The Blue Devils have a star-studded offense that is led by quarterback Harrison Bailey (2,314 yards passing, 23-TDs), tight end Arik Gilbert (48 receptions, 925 yards 8-TDs), receiver Ricky White (46 receptions, 677 yards, 8-TDs) and running back Kimani Vidal (734 yards, 15-TDs). The defense is allowing 20.2 points per game. B.J. Ojulari leads the way on defense with 75 total tackles and 12 sacks.

 

The Hillgrove Hawks were perhaps robbed of a go-ahead touchdown against McEachern early in October, but there is no time to cry over spilled milk. Outside of the McEachern game, the Hawks have dominated most of their opponents, save for an overtime win against a gritty Etowah team. Hillgrove is averaging 33.6 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 13.2 points per game. Even with two high scoring offenses, we believe points will be at a premium this week. We like the Blue Devils at home by a field goal.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Lowndes will host Colquitt County with the Region 1-7A title on the line. Lowndes has dominated their opponents this season outscoring them 368-71. Their closest margin of victory was 24 points. Most of the Vikings offense comes by way of the ground game, as they’ve rushed for 2,478 yards as a team. Sophomore quarterback Jacurri Brown leads the team in passing (715 yards 5-TDs) and rushing (901 yards 11-TDs). Israel Mitchell, Justin Lee and Gary Osby have combined to rush for 1,325 yards and 24-TDs. The Lowndes defense has racked up 31.5 sacks, led by Thomas Davis with 7; meanwhile the secondary has intercepted 9 passes this season.

The Colquitt County Packers only blemish was a one-point loss to Valdosta back in mid-September. The Packers are a little more balanced than the Vikings, but definitely have leaned more on the passing game. Jaycee Harden has thrown for 2,504 yards and 32-TDs. His leading receivers are Lemeke Brockington (38 receptions, 695 yards, 11-TDs), Tyler Walker (37 receptions, 485 yards, 3-TDs), and Tahj Sanders (31 receptions, 493 yards, 7-TDs). Daijun Edwards leads the team in rushing with 777 yards and 9-TDs.  The Packers defense is allowing 12.2 points per game. We believe this will be a back and forth battle, and much closer than last years game, but we like Lowndes to edge the Packers by a touchdown.

 

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Week 10 – GHSA High School Football Poll

Posted on October 27, 2019 by admin

Our Week-10 GHSA High School Football Poll has been published. In 7A, Lowndes continues to roll as they downed Camden County 45-13. The loss drops Camden out of the poll and makes room for Mill Creek at No. 10 this week.

In 6A,  the Lee County Trojans won in an overtime shootout against Valdosta 53-50. The two swapped places in the poll as Lee jumps to No. 2 while Valdosta falls to No. 3. Meanwhile, the Mays Raiders got a big win over Region foe South Paulding 28-7. South Paulding drops from the rankings with the loss making way for the Stephenson Jaguars at No. 10.

In 5A Bainbridge was downed by No. 1 Warner Robins. The loss drops the Bearcats from our poll this week. Their loss also made way for undefeated Riverwood, who comes in at No. 10. This week.  In 4A, most teams held serve, with the exception of Flowery Branch. The Falcons could not solve the Marist triple option this past Friday night. The loss drops the Falcons from the Top-10 and makes way for the undefeated North Oconee Titans at No. 10.

There were no changes to the 3A poll. In 2A the Swainsboro Tigers beat Vidalia 21-9. That loss by Vidalia drops them from the poll this week and the Thomasville Bulldogs return to the Top-10 for the first time in several weeks. The Bulldogs have bounced back from a slow start and have put themselves in great positions to claim a region championship.

In Class A-Public, Bowdon fell to Darlington. That loss drops the Red Devils to No. 10 this week. In a top-5 matchup, the Irwin County Indians shutout the Wilcox County Patriots to retain sole possession of the region lead. The loss dropped the Patriots to No. 6 this week. In Class A-Private, Christian Heritage edged North Cobb Christian 21-20. Christian Heritage remains at No. 6 while North Cobb Christian falls to No. 10. Otherwise, there were no substantive changes to the poll.

Polls are fun and can provide for spirited and healthy conversations and debates. We welcome any and all poll feedback.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Week – 10 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 24, 2019 by admin

This is Part II of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. As we mentioned in Part-I, a lot is at stake this week as the region picture starts to become clearer as we enter the final stretch of the regular season. Our first preview features Irwin County versus Wilcox County. The Indians have not lost a regular season region game since 2016. The Patriots are a formidable opponent, but can they derail the Indians perfect season?  In Region 2-2A, Kade Youmans, the defending region player of the year, leads the Swainsboro Tigers into Vidalia with a chance to get one step closer to repeating as region champs. But don’t expect the Indians to just lay down for Swainsboro. Vidalia has a pretty stingy defense, but will it be enough this week? The Marist War Eagles go on the road to take on Flowery Branch. The War Eagles are in the middle of a 3 game gauntlet in which they face the top teams in the region. They will have their hands full with the Flowery Branch rushing attack. But can the Falcons defense keep the War Eagles in check? Finally, the Jefferson Dragons are looking to stay in sole possession of 1st place in Region 8-3A. Monroe Area got the best of Jefferson last season, but the Dragons are red hot and don’t show any signs of slowing down. Will the Dragons get revenge this week? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 


 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Irwin County and Wilcox County face off for the 28th  time this Friday night down in Ocilla. This series has been one of streaks and currently Irwin County has a six game win streak over Wilcox. The Indians might boast one of the best backfields in the state. Players such as Kam Ward, Gabriel Benyard and Garland Benyard have picked up the slack during DJ Lundy’s absence. However, with the return of Lundy, this group is looking like a team of destiny. The defense has only surrendered 22 points all season, with three shutouts. That’s an average of 3.6 points per game. Yikes!!!

 

The Wilcox County Patriots represent the biggest test for Irwin County left in the season. The Patriots come into the  game with only one loss, a 6-point setback to Clinch County. (A game that Wilcox lead by 12 points at one point.) They are led by Desmond Tisdol, who makes just as many plays on offense as he does on defense. Quarterback Noah Hollingsworth is not a one trick pony, as he can beat the defense with his arm and his legs making the Patriots much more challenging to gameplan for. The Patriots are allowing 9 points per game themselves with four shutouts to their credit. We definitely expect this game to be closer than last year’s matchup. But we think Irwin County is just too deep. We like the Indians by two touchdowns at home.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Swainsboro Tigers and Vidalia Indians will meet for the 74th time this Friday night. The teams first met back in 1925. Last year, the Tigers edged the Indians and claimed their first region title since 2010. Vidalia dropped their first game of the season to 3A Appling County, but since then has won six straight. They are averaging 25.4 points per game on offense and allowing 13.4 points per game on defense.

 

The Swainsboro Tigers are also riding high coming into this week. The only blemish on their record was a Week-3 setback to Dublin. In the 5 games since that loss, Swainsboro has outscored their opponents 194-26. Swainsboro has been pretty balanced on offense this season. Kade Youmans has passed for 1,186 yards and 17-TDs, while the team has rushed for almost 1,200 yards on the season. The Tigers are averaging 34.8 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 10.7 points. We have a feeling this game will be low scoring with two stingy defenses going toe to toe. We like Swainsboro to edge Vidalia this week by 4, perhaps with some late game heroics by the defending region player of the year.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marist War Eagles will travel to Flowery Branch to take on the Flowery Branch Falcons. This might be one of the toughest regions in Class AAAA with the likes of these two teams, Blessed Trinity and Denmark sitting atop the region. Flowery Branch was edged last week in overtime by Blessed Trinity. We have mentioned before how the Falcons have had to reinvent themselves after losing starting quarterback Elijah Gainey in the scrimmage back in August. The Falcons boast one of the best defenses in the region, allowing only 9.7 points per game, while averaging 33.1 points per game on offense. Jaizen Ellingham has been the bellcow for the offense, rushing for over 670 yards and 12-TDs.

 

Meanwhile the War Eagles are again looking like a serious contender for the state title this season. Under coach Allen Chadwick, the War Eagles have not missed the postseason. Connor Cigelske led the way again in last week’s victory with 121 yards passing, 135 yards rushing and 1-TD. Lincoln Parker added two rushing TDs as well along with 73 rushing yards. The Marist defense is allowing only 7.7 points per game with 3 shutouts to their credit. Last week, they kept the high-flying Denmark Danes in check and even scored a defensive touchdown. That’s enough to convince us that Marist should win this game convincingly. We like the War Eagles by 17.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Jefferson Dragons are looking for their first region title in 3 years. Standing in their way is last season’s region champ, the Monroe Area Hurricanes. The Canes dropped a region game to Morgan County, so this is a must win for them to force a three-way tie atop the region. They are lead by dual threat quarterback Selation Straughter Jr. who has passed for 1,141 yards, rushed for 621 yards and accounted for 13-TDs. Danarius Hendricks leads the Canes in receiving with 30 receptions for 446 yards. Monroe Area is averaging just over 28 points per game, while the defense is allowing only 12.8 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, the Jefferson Dragons seem like a team on a mission. After falling to 4A Oconee County in week one by 1-point, the Dragons have reeled off six straight wins. Only one of those has been close. ( A 5-point victory over Hart County.) In region play, the Dragons are averaging 54.7 points per game, while their defense is allowing only 12 points per game. The Dragons have done most of their damage on the ground. Malaki Starks leads the team in rushing with 436 yards and 5-TDs, but quarterback Colby Clark has also rushed for 434 yards, passed for 373 and has accounted for 17-TDs. As a team, the Dragons have rushed for over 2,400 yards. We believe Monroe Area will get points on the board this week, but not enough to outscore Jefferson. We like the Dragons by 13.

 

 

 

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Week – 10 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 1 of 2

Posted on October 23, 2019 by admin

This is Part I of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. A lot is at stake this week as region pictures start to become clearer as we enter the final stretch of the regular season. Our first preview features a clash of titans in Region 1-6A as Valdosta hosts Lee County. These two teams have won the last 3 state titles in class 6-A. Will the Wildcats avenge last year’s drubbing at the hands of Lee County? In Region 5-6A, the Mays Raiders host upstart South Paulding. The Spartans have come from out of nowhere this season to challenge for a region title. Will their aerial assault give the Raiders secondary trouble this week? In a rematch of the 5-A state title game, Bainbridge hosts Warner Robins. The Bearcats have dropped their last two games and things don’t look so peachy with Warner Robins coming to town. Can the Bearcats stop the bleeding with a big win this week? Finally, in Region 2-4A, Mary Persons hosts West Laurens. The West Laurens Raiders look to be a serious contender for the region title this year. But we know Mary Persons won’t go quietly into the night. Is this the Raiders year? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Valdosta and Lee County will tangle this week in a game that should determine the Region 1-6A title. Last season, Lee earned their only win in the series with a resounding 63-7 beat down of the Wildcats. The Trojans had been humming along early until a shocking loss to 3A Peach County. Lee County is still averaging 38.1 points per game while their defense has recorded three shutouts and is allowing only 9.2 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, the Valdosta Wildcats are looking not only to avenge last season’s loss, but also get a stranglehold on the region title. The Cats last won the region title in 2016. Consequently, that year, they also won the state title. Valdosta is averaging 40 points per game while their defense is allowing 18.5 points per game. This game features two of the top quarterbacks in 6A in Lee County’s Kyle Toole and Valdosta’s Tate Rodemaker. The game has all the makings of a knock down, drag out brawl. We like the Cats to win this week. Valdosta by 4.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

While there is still a lot to be decided in Region 5-6A, the winner of the Mays-South Paulding game might just secure the region title. Since their week-1 loss to Kell by 5 points, the Mays Raiders have been on a tear; reeling off six consecutive victories. While the Raiders are average a healthy 29.5 points per game, it has been the defense who has stymied most of their opponents, allowing only 11.7 points per game. Weapons on offense for the Raiders include senior receiver Zaire Thornton and senior running back Tyree Nelson.

 

Meanwhile, South Paulding, who had gone through some growing pains over the last three seasons finds themselves in the thick of a race for the region title. The Spartans have done most of their damage through the air this season. Quarterback Austin Seymour has passed for over 1,800 yards and 23-TDs. His top two receivers are receiver Parker Self (61 receptions, 982 yards, 12-TDs) and tight end Miles Campbell (34 receptions, 405 yards, 7-TDs). Together, this trio has helped power South Paulding’s offense to average 36.5 points per game. We think this game should be a back and forth battle. We like Mays to edge South Paulding by 2.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Bainbridge Bearcats started off the season red hot, but have dropped their last two games. This week, they will host the Warner Robins Demons in a rematch of the 2018 state title. Bainbridge has been pretty stout on defense, allowing 13.1 points per game. Quayde Hawkins has passed for 1,125 yards and 9-TDs while Rashad Broadnax has rushed for 718 yards and 8-TDs. Deyon Bouie continues to lead the secondary with 3 interceptions this season as a sophomore.

 

While a win this week by Warner Robins won’t necessarily avenge last season’s state title game, it will move the Demons one step closer to a region title. Warner Robins is averaging 33.5 points per game. They are led by junior quarterback Jalen Addie (1,383 passing yards, 16-TDs), junior running back Jalen Rutherford (660 rushing yards, 3-TDs) and senior wide receiver Marcayl Jones (25 receptions, 474 yards, 2-TDs). The Demons defense is only allowing 13.5 points per game. We don’t believe that the Demons will get to 33 points this week, but we do like them over the Bearcats. Warner Robins by 9.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

For the last four years, the Region 2-4A title has gone through Mary Persons. The Bulldogs have not lost a region game since 2014. This season they are still undefeated in the region, but have a serious challenger in the West Laurens Raiders. The Bulldogs are averaging 28.7 points per game, but their defense is allowing 28.2 points per game. William Stewart leads the way at running back with 541 yards and 6-TDs, while quarterbacks Malikk Harris and Logan Hickman have combined to pass for 816 yards and 10-TDs.

 

If you were wondering when the last time Mary Persons lost a region game, it was in fact to West Laurens on November 7, 2014. A win by the Raiders this week will not guaranty a region title, but it will certainly boost confidence over the last two weeks. Quarterback A.J. Mathis has passed for 1,425 yards and 14-TDs while Brent Car has caught 51 passes for 807 yards. D’Eryck Jackson leads the team in total tackles with 62 and has 5 sacks. As a team, West Laurens has tallied 36 sacks on the year. Daniel Dorsey leads the secondary with 4 interceptions. West Laurens is averaging 36.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.1 points. We think this game will be close and we don’t expect for West to score 36 points, but we do like them by a touchdown this week on the road.

 

 

 

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