Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Quarterfinal Playoff Previews – Part II

Posted on November 24, 2021 by admin

We were treated to some great games in the second round of the playoffs and this week, and now we are on to the round of eight as we take a look at Eight Greats around the State. This is Part II of our Georgia High School Football Quarterfinal preview, we feature games between Benedictine-Marist, Lee County-Buford, Carrollton-Westlake and Milton-Mill 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 Benedictine Cadets advanced to the quarterfinals for the seventh time in eight years. The Cadets have reeled off 10 straight wins and have outscored their two playoff opponents 122-7. The Cadets have a balanced attack on offense throwing for 226.5 yards per game and rushing for 236.5 yards per game. Quarterback Holden Geriner has thrown for 2,538 yards and 26-TDs while Justin Thomas has rushed for 1,160 yards and 23-TDs. Geriner’s top receivers are Za’Quan Bryan and the aforementioned Thomas. Bryan has 74 receptions for 1,072 yards and 10-TDs. Holden Sapp is tops on the team in total tackles and tackles for loss and also has a team leading 5 interceptions. The Cadets have sacked opposing quarterbacks 20 times and forced 28 turnovers. 

The Marist War Eagles are in the quarterfinals for the fifth straight season and for the ninth time in ten years. The War Eagles are the defending Class 4A state champs and have won nine straight games. Their only loss was a five point defeat early in the season to Woodward Academy. Marist is averaging 40 points per game and is allowing 11. The War Eagles have shutout three of their opponents this season and in their first two playoff games have outscored the opposition 97-14.

Both Marist and Benedictine have rebounded nicely after early season setbacks. This game would have been a great state finals matchup. If Holden Sapp and the Benedictine defense can disrupt the timing of Marist’s option attack, we would like their chances. But Davis’ experience at quarterback might give the War Eagles the edge on the road. Marist by 3.

The Skinny

The Lee County Trojans are back in the quarterfinals for the fifth straight season. The Trojans escaped a valiant comeback effort from Cambridge last week to run their win streak to six games. Lee County is averaging 43.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.5. Freshman Ousmane Kromah had led the way for the Trojans offense this season at running back. He has the benefit of running behind Qae’Shon Sapp and fullback Debo Roberts. Jevell Ferguson is another one of many playmakers for this Lee County team.

The Buford Wolves are winners of eight straight games and are in the quarterfinals for the 22nd consecutive season. The Wolves are the defending state champions. Buford has not lost to a team from Georgia this season and is averaging 37.4 points per game and is allowing 7 points per game. Buford has shutout four of their opponents this season and in two playoff games, they’ve outscored their opponents 82-21. The Wolves are led on offense by running backs Victor Venn and C.J. Clinkscales and receiver Isaiah Bond. 

This game is a rematch of the 2020 state finals that Buford won in overtime. Lee County will certainly have revenge on their mind. Expect another close game down in Leesburg, but we believe Buford’s defense will help lead the Wolves to victory on the road. Buford by 3.

The Skinny

The Carrollton Trojans are into the quarterfinals for the sixth strait season. The Trojans are on a 7-game win-streak and are averaging 42.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.1. They’ve outscored their two playoff opponents 90-49. Carrollton is led on offense by dual threat quarterback M.J. Morris. He’s thrown for 2,721 yards and 31-TDs and rushed for 499 yards and 7-TDs. Morris is flanked in the backfield by Bryce Hicks who has rushed for 711 yards and 10-TDs. Receivers Takare Lipscomb, Terrell Carmichael and Ace Williamson have combined to catch 121 passes for 2,105 yards and 25-TDs. The Trojans are averaging 242.5 yards per game through the air and 178.3 yards per game on the ground.

The Westlake Lions are in the quarterfinals for the second year in a row.  The Lions have won six consecutive games entering this week. Westlake is averaging 39.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.4 points per game. They’ve scored over 50 points three times this season and have outscored their two playoff opponents 90-13. Their offense is led by quarterback Robert Johnson who has thrown for over 2,200 yards and 20-TDs. Running backs Zinah Mulbah and Jai’Den Thomas have provided a great one-two punch, combining for over 1,700 yards and 23-TDs.

Looking at the numbers, one would think this might be a shootout, but we seem to believe that this game will come down to defense. We believe Westlake’s defense is a little better…We like the Lions by 5. 

The Skinny

The Milton Eagles advanced to the  semifinals for the third time in four seasons. The Eagles have won nine straight games entering this week. This season, Milton is averaging 43 points per game while allowing 19.5 points per game. They have outscored their first two playoff opponents 83 to 35. Quarterback Devin Farrell has thrown for 1,865 and 23-TDs while Jordan McDonald leads the way on the ground with 1,181 yards rushing and  20-TDs. The Eagles have a talented group of receivers headlined by Debron Gatling, Jack Nickel and Adam Freas. The trio has combined for 99 receptions for 1,354 yards and 19-TDs. L.T. Overton and A.J. Crawford anchor a very talented defensive front. Milton’s defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 26 times and forced 24 turnovers this season. 

The Mill Creek Hawks advanced to the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. The Hawks have won three straight games entering this week. (Their only loss was to No. 1 ranked  Collins Hill in region play). Mill Creek is averaging 37.2 points per game while allowing 15.1 points per game. The Hawks are balanced on offense average 166.5 yards per game through the air and 155.6 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Hayden Clark has thrown for 1,867 yards and 17-TDs. Donovan Journey leads the team on the ground with 968 yards and 18-TDs. Journey also leads the team in receptions while Brendan Jenkins and Makhail Woods have combined to catch 47 passes for 815 yards and 10-TDs. 

Both teams are battled tested. Mill Creek’s Caleb Downs is one of the top DBs in the state. But he and the secondary will have their hands fill with a bevy of talented Milton receivers. We think a lot of points will be scored but don’t expect a runaway. Milton by 8.

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Quarterfinal Playoff Previews – Part I

Posted on November 23, 2021 by admin

We were treated to some great games in the second round of the playoffs and this week, and now we are on to the round of eight as we take a look at Eight Greats around the State. This is Part I of our Georgia High School Football Quarterfinal preview, we feature games betwee where we Irwin County-Macon County, Thomasville-Rabun County, Crisp County-Cedar Grove and Perry-Cedartown.

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 Irwin County Indians advanced to the quarterfinals for the ninth consecutive season. The Indians really have not been tested since their September 24th game against Brooks County which Irwin won by 8. They have now won 8 consecutive games on the season. Irwin has only shutout one opponent this season, and is allowing 14.4 points per game. Meanwhile their offense is averaging 40.2 points per game. They have scored more than 50 points, five times this season. 

The Macon County Bulldogs are 11-0 for the seventh time in school history. They are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2018. The Macon County defense has shutout five opponents this season and is allowing 9.8 points per game. Offensively, the Bulldogs are averaging 39.9 points per game and have scored more than 50 points twice this season. The smallest margin of victory for Macon County this season was a 8 point victory over Chattahoochee County three weeks ago. 

The Bulldogs are the only team remaining from Region 5. While Irwin is one of three teams remaining in Region 2. The speaks to the strength of Region 2, We expect a defensive battle with the home-standing Indians on top by 3.   

The Skinny

The Thomasville Bulldogs advanced to the quarterfinals for the fourth time in five years. They have won seven straight entering this week. Their only loss this season was a 14 point defeat at the hands of Class 3-A Oconee County on the road. The Bulldogs are averaging 138.4 yards through the air and 193.6 yards on the ground. Quarterback Shannen White has thrown for 1,595 yards and 19-TDs while Malik Harper and Ricky Fulton have combined to rush for 1,817 yards and 25-TDs. Thomasville is averaging 30.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 14.2 points per game.

The Rabun County Wildcats have won eleven consecutive games coming into this week and advanced to the quarterfinals for the seventh consecutive season. Rabun County is averaging a whopping 50.6 points per game and allowing 12.3. In their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 119-21. Gunner Stockton has thrown for 3,974 yards and 553-TDs and has rushed for 844 yards and 14-TDs. Jaden Gibson leads the team in receiving with 80 receptions for 1,816 yards and 18-TDs. Rabun County is averaging 338 yards per game through the air and 148.8 yards per game on the ground. 

Of the teams remaining in Class 2-A, we believe Thomasville has the best shot of defeating Rabun County. But even down in the City of Roses, we believe Stockton and the Wildcats will be too much to handle. Rabun County by 14. 

The Skinny

The Crisp County Cougars dropped their first three games of the season, but since then, have reeled off nine straight victories to advance to the quarterfinals for the third straight season and for the fourth time since 2016. The Cougars are relatively balanced, averaging 139.6 yards per game on the ground and 157.9 yards per game through the air. Quarterback Jack Carter has thrown for 1,535 yards and 16-TDs while Marquise Palmer has now rushed for 1,055 yards and 15-TDs to lead the way for the Cougars on offense. Trae Walker has come on strong this season to lead the receiving corps with 42 receptions for 600 yards and 5-TDs. Crisp County is averaging 33.1 points per game while allowing 12 points per game. 

The Cedar Grove Saints have advanced to the quarterfinals for the seventh consecutive season. The Saints are averaging 45.2 points per game and allowing 12.5 points per game. After a surprising loss to Sandy Creek in the regular season finale, the Saints have bounced back to defeat their first two playoff opponents by a combined 127-10. Rashad Dubinion leads the team on the ground with 1,298 yards and 20-TDs while Jamar Graham has thrown for 1,087 and 12-TDs. Graham is one of three quarterbacks who has attempted over 40 passes for the Saints this season. Bernard Mack, Janiran Bonner and Trevon Farrell are a very formidable trio at wide receiver as they’ve combined for 98 receptions for 1,519 yards and 16-TDs. 

There are plenty of story lines in this game as Cougars Coach Miguel Patrick was the head Coach at Cedar Grove the last two seasons. This will also be the third meeting in the post-season for these two titans since 2016. Cedar Grove has a few more weapons on offense, and we believe that might be the difference this week. We like the Saints by 5 on the road. 

The Skinny

The Perry Panthers are winners of seven consecutive games and have advanced to the quarterfinals for the second consecutive season. Their 11 wins is a school record and a win this week would put the Panthers in the semifinals for only the second time in school history. Perry is averaging 35.6 points per game and allowing 9.6 points per game. They’ve shutout four teams this season. As we mentioned last week, Perry does most of their damage through the air, with quarterback Armar Gordon throwing for 2,715 yards and 29-TDs. Receiver Daequan Wright has now gone over 1,000 yards receiving and has 12 touchdown receptions. Perry’s defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 28 times and intercepted 12 passes.

The Cedartwon Bulldogs are also in the quarterfinals for the second consecutive season. The Bulldogs are winners of their last seven games. Cedartown is averaging 37.7 points per game and allowing 9.5 points per game. Unlike Perry, Cedartown does the bulk of their work on the ground, churning out 328.9 yards of offense on the ground each week. They are led by backs Harlem Diamond, C.J. Washington and Patrick Gardner. The trio has rushed for over 2,300 yards and 36-TDs. The Cedartown defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 39 times and intercepted 11 passes on the season. They will need another big performance this week if they are going to derail Perry on the road. 

Both these teams are evenly matched. Great defenses and high powered offenses. Perry certainly has an advantage playing at home, but we believe this is the week that their reliance on the pass might come back to haunt them. We like Cedartown by a two points on the road. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Second Round Playoff Previews – Part III

Posted on November 19, 2021 by admin

The first week of the Georgia High School playoffs is in the books and there were plenty of surprises. Many of our brackets have been busted and we admit, our picks of Riverwood (6A), Jefferson (4A) Rockmart (3A) certainly make us question what we were thinking when we filled out brackets last weekend. So while we lick our wounds over some of those picks, we look ahead to week two of the playoffs.

We expanded our Eight Greats Around the State to Twelve Greats Around the State this week as we give our Georgia High School Football Second Round Playoff Previews. This is Part III of III. We went heavy on the lower classifications in this segment. This preview features games between Haralson County-Northeast (Macon), Irwin County-Lincoln County, Metter-Schley County, and Washington-Wilks-Brooks County.

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 Harlason County Rebels advanced tot he second round for the first time in school history. The Rebels have now won nine straight games. Haralson County is averaging 34.3 points per game while allowing 11.2 points per game. Haralson County’s offense is powered by Clay Hyatt. Hyatt has accounted for over 2,500 yards worth of total offense and has thrown and rushed for a combined 44-TDs. Hyatt has also been a star on defense as well with well over 100 tackles. During the regular season, the Rebels defeated seven playoff teams. 

The Northeast Macon Raiders advanced to the second round for the second consecutive season. The were able to bounce back from a Week-12 loss to Lamar County. The Raiders have now won three of their last four games. Northeast is averaging 136.3 yards per game through the air and 207.8 yards per game on the ground. Running backs Tyler Terry and Kalik Evans lead the ground attack along with quarterback Travion Solomon. Solomon is a dual threat quarterback with over 1,300 yards passing and over 450 rushing yards. The Raiders are averaging 28.5 points per game while allowing 13.2.

Northeast was a mainstay in our poll until they faltered late in the season. We know they can play with top teams in Class 2-A, but having to deal with Clay Hyatt, plus the long trip to Tallappoosa might be too much to overcome. We like the Rebels by a touchdown.

The Skinny

The Irwin County Indians are the two-time defending state champs and are in the second round of the state playoffs for the 9th consecutive season. The Indians are in the midst of a seven game winning streak; with their only two losses coming by a combined 5 points, both to teams in higher classifications. Offensively, the Indians are led by quarterback Cody Soliday and running back Damarkus Lundy. Soliday has thrown for 1,425 yards and 20-TDs while Lundy has rushed for 1,086 yards and 12-TDs. The Indians are averaging 39.2 points per game while allowing 13.2 points per game. 

The Lincoln County Red Devils have now won three consecutive games entering this week’s contest. They are in the second round of the playoffs for the third consecutive year. In their last three games, Lincoln County has only allowed 6 points. Expect for the Red Devils to do most of their damage on the ground as they are averaging 274.6 yards per game rushing while only passing for 68.7 yards per game. Tevin Gartrell leads the offense with 1,280 yards rushing while sophomore Semaj Jenkins has chipped in 656 yards and 7-TDs. Quarterback Trey Huff also does double duty for the Red Devils, as he leads the team on defense with 123 total tackles . Lincoln County is averaging 29.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.6.

There have not been many teams who’ve been able to slow down Irwin County over the last few years. Lincoln County certainly has the offense that can help keep the Indians at bay, but we really believe Irwin County has the pedigree to advance this week. Indians by 13.

The Skinny

Everything is better in Metter…Well, that’s what the Metter Chamber of Commerce says anyway. As far as the Metter Tigers football team, things couldn’t be better either, as they roll into the second round of the playoffs for the 3rd straight season. The Tigers are also 11-0 for the second straight season and have a combined record of 35-3 since 2019. Metter’s defense has shut out four of their opponents this season and is allowing just 10.6 points per game. Meanwhile, their offense has been outstanding, averaging 45.1 points per game. The Tigers have defeated five playoffs teams during the regular season.

The Schley County Wildcats are in the second round of the playoffs for the fourth time in five years. Their best finish in the state playoffs was a quarterfinals run in 2018. This has been the Wildcats best season, in terms of wins as they have won 10 games for the first time in school history. Schley is averaging 207.7 yards per game through the air and 170.6 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Jay Kanazawa has thrown for 2,273 yards and 27-TDs while Zayden Walker has rushed for 986 yards and 18-TDs. Jalewis Solomon leads the team in receiving with 54 receptions for 913 yards and 13-TDs. The Schley secondary has intercepted 17 passes this season.

This might be one of the top five matchups around the state this Friday. Schley County is a young team, but they are are explosive. We believe this game will be back and forth, but we do like Metter at home this week over the up and coming Wildcats. Tigers by 9.

The Skinny

The Washington-Wilkes Tigers advanced to the second round of the playoffs for the second consecutive season. The Tigers bounced back from their loss to Commerce three weeks ago and have now won in back to back weeks. Washington-Wilkes is averaging 37.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 18. The Tigers are led by quarterback Dalen Cobb, who just might be one of the top players in the state in Class-A, as he has thrown for 1,434 yards and 16-TDs and rushed for 1,182 yards and 18-TDs. Cobb is joined in the backfield by running back Jamarquez Tyson who has rushed for 1,111 yards and 16-TDs. Defensively, Jo’Vares Harden leads the team in total tackles with 112. The Tigers secondary has intercepted 11 passes on the season.

The Brooks County Trojans are in the midst of a six game winning streak. Head Coach Maurice Freeman has led the Trojans to the second round of the playoffs for 14 consecutive season. Quarterback Jamal Sanders has thrown for 1,689 yards and 23-TDs while running back Omari Arnold has rushed for 1,609 yards and 26-TDs. Willie Brown and Tremaine Demps have combined to catch 59 passes and 1,294 yards and 19-TDs. The Trojans are averaging 46.1 points per game while allowing 17.3 points. They’ve defeated four playoff teams, and their two losses were by a combined 16 points, (to Thomasville and Irwin County).

This should be a great matchup, perhaps worthy of a quarterfinal or semifinal matchup. Both teams have a very potent offense so expect the scoreboard operator to be pretty busy on Friday night. We like Brooks County to bring the hammer up to Washington this week and leave with a victory. Trojans by 5. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Second Round Playoff Previews – Part II

Posted on November 15, 2021 by admin

The first week of the Georgia High School playoffs is in the books and there were plenty of surprises. Many of our brackets have been busted and we admit, our picks of Riverwood (6A), Jefferson (4A) Rockmart (3A) certainly make us question what we were thinking when we filled out brackets last weekend. So while we lick our wounds over some of those picks, we look ahead to week two of the playoffs.

We expanded our Eight Greats Around the State to Twelve Greats Around the State this week as we give our Georgia High School Football Second Round Playoff Previews. This is Part II of III. This preview features games between Ware County-Calhoun, Cartersville-Warner Robins, Perry-Flowery Branch and Crisp County-Oconee County.

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 Ware County Gators are winners of five straight and find themselves in the second round of the playoffs for the 15th straight season. The Gators are averaging 41.3 points per game and allowing 19.2 points per game. Dual threat quarterback Thomas Castellanos has thrown for over 2,300 yards and run for over 780 yards for a combined total of 36-TDs through 10-games.  Cartervious Norton is the teams leading rusher through 10-games with 1,166 yards and 12-TDs. Receivers Jarvis Hayes and James Daniels have combined for over 65 receptions and over 1,200 receiving yards. During the regular season, Ware County faced nine teams that qualified for the post-season in their respective classes. 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets will make the five hour trip to Waycross this Friday night as these two schools are about as far away from each other as you can get here in the state of Georgia. The Jackets have made the second round for the 21st consecutive season. During that stretch they’ve won three state titles. Top players for Calhoun include quarterback Christian Lewis, Cole Speer, Gage Leonard, Payton Law and Caden Williams. Calhoun is averaging 39.6 points per game and allowing 19 points per game. Their only loss in the state of Georgia was a seven point defeat at the hands of Cartersville. 

You’d have to think the long road trip would have to take it’s toll on Calhoun. So a fast start by Ware County might do the Yellow Jackets in. Even so, we believe Calhoun will be able to go toe-to toe with Ware County. Unfortunately, for Calhoun, we believe Castellanos will out-duel Lewis. Ware by 8. 

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes are in the second round of the playoffs for the 10th consecutive seasons. This is also the eight time since 2012 that the Canes have run their record to 10-0. Cartersville is averaging 38.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.2 per game. Quarterback Jake Parker has thrown for 1,149 yards and 16-TDs. Meanwhile, Amari White leads the team in rushing for over 890 yards on the season. The Canes are averaging 133.2 yards per game through the air and 211.9 yards per game on the ground. Jake Brasfield leads the defense with 59 total tackles. The Canes have intercepted 8 passes on the season and sacked opposing quarterbacks 15 times. 

The Warner Robins Demons are the defending 5-A State champions. They’ve reached the 2nd round for the fifth consecutive season. Warner Robins has been an offensive juggernaut, averaging 470.8 yards per game on the season, (222.1 through the air and 248.7 on the ground). Quarterback Christon Lane has thrown for 2,136 yards and 27 TDs, completing just under 65% of his passes. His top receiver is Daveon Walker who has caught 49 passes for 1,035 yards and 12-TDs. Meanwhile, Malcolm Brown has rushed for 1,332 yards and 17-TDs. Senior back JaFrederick Perry has also added 647 yards and 12-TDs. 

This is the rematch from the 2020 state title game and we’d bet that Cartersville has a long memory as they were beaten soundly. They’d like nothing more than to get revenge on their home field. The Canes have just the defense to slow down Warner Robins, but we believe the Warner Robins Express will continue to roll this week. This one should be much closer though. Demons by 4.

The Skinny

The Perry Panthers advanced to the second round of the playoffs for the third consecutive season. They have now won ten games for the first time in school history. They enter their second round game on a six game win streak. Perry has shut out four of their opponents this season and the defense is allowing just 9.9 points per game. Offensively, Perry is averaging 35 points per game. The only blemish on their record was a 5-point loss to Spalding. The Panthers have done the bulk of their work through the air, averaging 239.5 yards per game, while averaging just above 90 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Armar Gordon Jr. has passed for 2,573 yards and 27-TDs, while completing 65% of his passes. Receivers Daequan Wright and Dakarai Anderson have combined to catch 95 passes for 1,621 yards and 16-TDs. Perry’s defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 24 times and forced 24 turnovers on the year. 

The Flowery Branch Falcons advance to the second round for the second straight year and for the third time in five years. The Falcons enter this week’s game on a five game win streak and went on the road to defeat Mays last week. The Falcons are averaging a healthy 31.5 points per game while allowing 17.6 points per game. During the regular season, quarterback David Renard through for 1,366 yards and 13-TDs while Myles Ivey led the team in rushing with 910 yards and 12-TDs. Jaheim Hayes and Connor Larson have combined to catch 61 passes for 879 yards and 6-TDs. 

Perry certainly has had a banner year, but we believe that their reliance on the pass will come back to haunt them at some point this post-season. Yet, we don’t believe this is that week. We like the Panthers in a surprisingly close game. Perry by 3. 

The Skinny

The Crisp County Cougars enter the second round of the playoffs on an eight game win streak. The Cougars advanced to the second round for the fifth time in six years. During their win streak, their closest game has been a 13-point victory over Peach County. The Cougars offense is averaging 33.8 points per game, while the defense is allowing 12.1. The Cougars have a balanced attack passing for 150.5 yards per game while rushing for 155.3 yards. Quarterback Jack Carter has thrown for 1,516 yards and 16-TDs, while Marquise Palmer has eclipsed the 1,000 yard mark, rushing for 1,016 and 15-TDs. Trae Walker leads the team with 41 receptions for 601 yards and 5-TDs. Junior linebacker Julian Fox leads the team in total tackles, while  C.J. Jones and Eric Ivory Jr. have combined to intercept 7-passes this season. 

The Oconee County Warriors find themselves on the road in the playoffs a little earlier than usual this season. This is the third straight season that the Warriors have advanced to the second round. They enter this weeks game winners of their last three. The Warriors are averaging 28.6 points per game while allowing 13 points per game. All of their non-region opponents qualified for the post-season in their respective classifications. So it’s suffice to say they’ve played a demanding schedule. Quarterback Jacob Wright has thrown for 1,832 yards and 18-TDs while C.J. Jones has now rushed for 1,001 yards and 12-TDs. Jake Johnson and Darius Johnson Jr. lead the team in receiving with a combined 80 receptions for 1,318 yards and 13-TDs. Linebacker Whit Weeks leads the defense with 120 total tackles. Billy Lewis and Darius Johnson have intercepted six and five passes respectively. As a team, Oconee County has picked off 15 passes and recovered 11 fumbles.

Oconee County is about as tough of a second round matchup that one could ask for. But the same can be said for Crisp County. Both teams have “been there and done that” so neither should be intimidated by the other. Another long bus ride from Watkinsville to Cordele, so we expect a slow start from Oconee County, but we believe they have enough fire power offensively to pull a minor upset this week. Warriors by 6.

Posted in 2021 Playoffs | Leave a comment

Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Second Round Playoff Previews – Part I

Posted on November 14, 2021 by admin

The first week of the Georgia High School playoffs is in the books and there were plenty of surprises. Many of our brackets have been busted and we admit, our picks of Riverwood (6A), Jefferson (4A) Rockmart (3A) certainly make us question what we were thinking when we filled out brackets last weekend. So while we lick our wounds over some of those picks, we look ahead to week two of the playoffs.

We expanded our Eight Greats Around the State to Twelve Greats Around the State this week as we give our Georgia High School Football Second Round Playoff Previews. This is Part I of III. This preview features games between Archer-Walton, North Cobb-Roswell, Northside Warner Robins-Douglas County and Kennesaw Mountain-Westlake.

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 Archer Tigers have advanced to the second round of the state playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. They extended their win streak to seven games and in the process, the Tigers continued with their defensive dominance, as they have not allowed more than seven points in a game since September 17th. Suffice to say, it all starts with defense for the Tigers. On the season, Archer is allowing 10.7 points per game while the offense is averaging 33.5. 

The Walton Raiders had a suspicious end to the season, falling to Marietta two weeks ago. However, the Raiders were able to bounce back and go on the road to Colquitt County and get a big victory as they advanced to the second round for the fifth consecutive season as well. Walton has won three of their last four games. They are averaging 35.6 points per game while the defense has allowed 27.4 points per game. Walton has only scored fewer than 31 points twice this season. The Raiders have a relatively balanced attack, averaging 194.6 yards per game through the air and 175.3 yards per game on the ground. 

We know that typically when we talk about Gwinnett County teams we marvel at their team speed. Archer is no different, especially their defense. However, Walton has just as much team speed. We aren’t particularly high on Walton’s defense, but we believe Mustafa Heffner, Sutton Smith and Braylen Stokes will help power the Raiders to another upset this week. Walton by 8. 

The Skinny

The North Cobb Warriors ran their win streak to ten straight as they had relatively little trouble with Camden County last week. After a close call with North Paulding two weeks ago, the Warriors seemed to be in great form to make a serious run in the playoffs. It’s the second straight year that the Warriors have advanced to the second round of the playoffs. During the regular season quarterback Malachi Singleton threw for 1,974 yards and 16-TDs, he also led the team in rushing with 755 yards and 17-TDs. Top receivers for the Warriors include Sam Mbake, De’Nylon Morrissette, and Reggie Givhan. North Cobb is averaging 38 points per game while allowing 13.3. 

The Roswell Hornets had a big win last week over Meadowcreek to run their win streak to three games and advance to the second round of the playoffs for the third straight season. Last week, quarterback Robbie Roper set the schools single season passing touchdown record (33). Roper has thrown for 2,437 yards and is second on the team in rushing with 358 yards and 3-TDs. Shaun Spence, Ehtan Nation, and Ethan Crite have been the top wide receivers for the Hornets, having combined to catch 103 passes for 1,183 yards and 22-TDs. Roswell is averaging 37.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.4 points per game. 

If there was a team that could derail North Cobb, Roswell certainly has the offensive firepower to do it. This could be a high scoring game, but look for North Cobb to have a little more in the tank to outlast a feisty Roswell team. North Cobb by 11. 

The Skinny

The Northside Warner Robins Eagles advanced to the second round of the state playoffs for the first time since 2018. They are winners of four of their last five games and are averaging 26.1 points per game while allowing 20.7 points per game. Outside of a forfeit win over Howard, all of their wins came against playoff teams. Well, Howard is the only team that Northside played that did not qualify for the post-season. Last week’s 32 point victory was the fourth time they’d defeated a time by at least 32 points. 

The Douglas county Tigers broke a two game losing streak with their seven point upset victory over Riverwood. (A team we had tabbed to make it to the finals.) Douglas County advanced to the second round of the state tournament for the first time since 2017. Sophomore quarterback Sire Hardaway has thrown for 1,538 yards and 11-TDs. His top receivers are a pair of juniors in Monte Gooden and Hilton Alexandra, Jr. The duo has combined for 97 receptions for 1,281 yards and 9-TDs. The Tigers area averaging 30.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.7 points per game.

A Douglas County win would advance the Tigers to the quarterfinals for the first time since 1988. They’ve played in one of the toughest regions in the state. But we know that Northside will not go quietly into the night. We like the Eagles at home this week in a lower scoring defensive battle. Northside by 6. 

The Skinny

The Kennesaw Mountain Mustangs advanced to the second round of the playoffs for the first time in school history. The Mustangs have reeled off four straight wins and are averaging 34 points per game while allowing 11.1. The 21 points allowed last week matched a game high that the defense allowed this season. The Mustangs are averaging 179.1 yards per game through the air and 155.5 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Cayman Prangley has thrown for 1,882 yards and 24-TDs while Jah Welch leads the team in rushing with 694 yards and 8-TDs. Savion Riley is Prangley’s primary target as he has caught 34 passes for 606 yards and 7-TDs, but Jailen Taylor has been a big play receiver for the Mustangs with 18 receptions for 700 yards and 10-TDs. 

The Westlake Lions advanced to the second round of the state playoffs for the second year in a row and for the sixth time in eight seasons. It was the fifth straight win for the Lions as well as their fifth 30+ point victory of the season. Westlake is averaging 38.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.6 points per game. During the regular season, quarterback R.J. Johnson threw for 2,025 yards and 20-TDs while Jai’Den Thomas and Zinah Mulbah had combined to rush for 1,192 yards and 13-TDs. The Lions are averaging 208.6 yards per game through the air and 173.2 yards per game on the ground. 

We haven’t talked much about defense in this preview, but Westlake’s Gannon Weathersby could be key in this game. He is one of the top defensive players in Class 6-A. This will be the toughest defense that Kennesaw Mountain faces this season and we believe Westlake’s defense will prevail. We like the Lions by 10.

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TFR Class A-Public – GHSA Playoff Preview – Week-1

Posted on November 13, 2021 by admin

The GHSA Playoffs got under way on Friday night and now, Class A – Public gets under way on Saturday. The past few seasons, we have attempted to preview every playoff game. This season we are taking a bit of a different approach. We will give you our overall thoughts on each classification and then preview two of the top games for each classification. For our Class A-Public GHSA Playoff Preview we highlight the Trion vs. Social Circle and Georgia Military College vs Manchester games.

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)

Tale of the Tape

Defending Champion: Irwin County

Current No. 1: Metter (TFR)/ Irwin County (GHSFD)

Best 1st Round Game:  Trion vs. Social Circle

Longest Playoff Drought:   Crawford County (1999)

Week 1 Upset Alert: GMC, Warren County

Final Four Predictions:   Macon County; Trion; Metter; Brooks County

Sleeper:  Chattahoochee County

The Brooks County Trojans are our pick to win the Class A-Public title, but it will be a perilous path for them if they do take the crown. There are several contenders in Class A-Public outside of Brooks County, including Macon County, Irwin County, Metter, Bowdon, Chattahoochee County, Schley County and Washington-Wilkes. A few of the top players in the classification including Dalen Cobb of Washington-Wilkes, Rob Brown of Trion, Omari-Arnold of Brooks County and Kenwan Felton of Macon County among many others.

Potential big matchups down the line include Lincoln County-Irwin County, Irwin County-Macon County, Bowdon-Metter and Brooks County-Washngon-Wilkes. Our sleeper is Chattahoochee County. We really like Region 5 and wouldn’t be surprised if they have two teams find their way into the final four. 

The Skinny

The Trion Bulldogs are back in the playoffs after a one year hiatus. Since 1996 the Bulldogs have only missed the playoffs five times. Trion enters post-season play on a five game win streak. They’re averaging 41.4 points per game and allowing 10.9. They are on pace to become the top scoring team in school history. Trion is led by running back Rob Brown who has made the most of his senior season, rushing for 2002 yards and 32-TDs. He’s also caught 12 passes for 125 yards and 2-TDs. As you can imagine, Trion relies heavily on the run, averaging 271.1 yards per game on the ground and 121.8 yards per game through the air. Linkin Farrar and Nathan Willingham lead the team in receiving. Defensively, Brantley Willbanks leads the team in total tackles and sacks. Trion has intercepted 15 passes this year with linebacker Clay Chesley leading the way with 3. 

The Social Circle Redskins are in the post season for the second consecutive season. Their six wins this season were the most since 2006. The Redskins enter the postseason winners of their last three games. They are averaging 25.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.3 points per game. Social Circle has two victories over playoff teams this season. Unlike Trion, expect the Redskins to air it out on Saturday. They are averaging 210.1 yards per game through the air and 88.7 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Logan Cross has thrown for 2,054 yards and 21-TDs. His top receivers are K.J. Reid, DaShon Hyman and Mason Moore. Linebacker Tucker Cleary leads the Redskins defense with 108 total tackles. It’s a defense that has also intercepted 13 passes, with the aforementioned Reid leading the team with 7. 

This is certainly a game with two contrasting styles. Social Circle does play in one of the more challenging regions in Class A-Public. However, it’s a long trip from Social Circle up to northwest Georgia. We believe a steady dose of Rob Brown will probably keep Social Circle’s offense on the sideline. We like Trion by 9.

The Skinny

The Georgia Military College (GMC) Bulldogs had their first 10-win season since 1934. The head coach of the ’34 team was non other than legendary University of Georgia Coach, Wally Butts. The Bulldogs have reached the state tournament for the second year in a row. They are averaging 34.7 points per game while the defense is allowing just over 5 points per game. The GMC defense has shut out three opponents and has not allowed more than 12 points in a game this season. Offensively, they do most of their damage on the ground, averaging 118.5 yards per game rushing while passing for just above 65 yards per game. Through eight games, Jesse Washington has rushed for 989 yards and 8-TDs for the Bulldogs. Trey Woods, Caleb Bush and Rance Williams lead the team in receiving. 

The Manchester Blue Devils are in the post-season for the seventh consecutive season. Since 1994, they have only missed the playoffs six times. Manchester closed out their season winning only one of their last three, but those two losses were to Macon and Schley County, both top-10 ranked teams in Class-A Public. The Blue Devils are averaging 25.4 points per game while allowing 14.5 points per game. Their defense has shutout two opponents this season. They have defeated one playoff team this season, but don’t take that lightly. The team they beat was Haralson County; who won Region 5-AA. 

GMC has had a great season with ten straight wins for the first time in school history. Yet, as we look at their schedule, we aren’t sure if they’ve played the same caliber of opponents that Manchester has. We believe Manchester is more physical and has more team speed and we like them in the upset this week. Manchester by two touchdowns. 

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TFR Class 2A – GHSA Playoff Preview – Week-1

Posted on November 11, 2021 by admin

The GHSA Playoffs get under way on Friday night. The past few seasons, we have attempted to preview every playoff game. This season we are taking a bit of a different approach. We will give you our overall thoughts on each classification and then preview two of the top games for each classification. For our Class 2A – GHSA Playoff Preview we highlight the Fannin vs. Bremen and Dade County vs Heard County games.

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)

Tale of the Tape

Defending Champion: Callaway

Current No. 1: Rabun County

Best 1st Round Game: Dade County vs. Heard County

Longest Playoff Drought:   East Laurens (2012)

Week 1 Upset Alert:  Fannin County, Elbert County, Westside Augusta, Dade County  

Final Four Predictions:  Haralson County, Fitzgerald, Callaway, Rabun County

Sleeper: Putnam County

Rabun County is our pick to finally break through and take home the title this season. They are led by Gunner Stockton who already owns a couple of state passing records. The Wildcats have come up short the last few seasons, but Stockton and the boys from Tiger seem to have all the pieces in place in 2021. Haralson County also has a do it all quarterback in Clay Hyatt, who we believe will help power the Rebels into the final four this season. Thomasville probably has the most unfortunate draw, as we believe a Thomasville-Rabun County state title game would have been ideal. If the seeds hold to form, those two teams will meet in the quarterfinals. 

We know it’s difficult for us to choose a region champ as a sleeper, but Putnam County doesn’t necessarily have the “pedigree” of the Fitzgeralds and Thomasvilles of the world. The War Eagles however have got things working under coach Shaun Pope. We won’t be shocked to see them playing in December. Potential great matchups down the line include Haralson County-Swainsboro, Fitzgerald-Putnam County and Bleckly County-Callaway. 

The Skinny

Coach Chad Cheatham has guided the Fannin County Rebels to the post-season for four consecutive seasons. The Rebels won their second consecutive region crown this year as they closed out the season on an 8-game winning streak. The only loss for the Rebels this season was a “curious” 32-point loss to Sonoraville. Fannin County is led by Seth Reece, who has accounted for 1,785 yards of total offense for the Rebels, including 21 total -TDs. Reece is the team’s leading rusher and passer. The Rebels do lean more run on offense and are averaging 233.2 yards per game on the ground while passing for 130.6 yards. Cason Owensby and Andrew Waldrep lead Fannin in total tackles this season. The Rebels secondary has intercepted 10 passes on the year. Fannin is averaging 33.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 11.6. The Rebels have defeated five playoff teams this season. 

The Bremen Blue Devils are in the playoffs for the eighth consecutive season. Since 1996, Bremen has only missed the playoffs three times. The Blue Devils come into this game losing four out of their last five games. They are averaging 27.5 points per game and allowing. 26.7 points per game. Bremen is led be quarterback Christian Burks. Burks throws a good deep ball and is also extremely crafty and can elude even the most persistent of defenders turning sure losses into positive plays. Don’t be surprised to see the wildcat formation with Blake Matthews taking snaps. Mathews is a patient runner and does a good job of finding seams in tight quarters. Bremen had defeated three playoff teams this season. 

We believe this game will be a shoot out, but can Bremen find any way to slow down Seth Reece? This might be the closest 1 vs. 4 seed in Class 2-A. But we believe Fannin will come out victorious. Rebels by 11.

The Skinny

The Dade County Wolverines advanced to the post-season for the first time since 2015 and for only the 5th time in school history. The team’s seven wins during the regular season was also their best showing since 2013. Dade is averaging 29.3 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 16 points per game. The Wolverines rely heavily on the run, averaging 208.4 yards per game on the ground and 122.6 yards per game through the air. Quarterback Brody Cooper has thrown for 1,153 yards and 8-TDs and has completed 70% of his passes. His top receivers are Brodie Swader and Zeke Wheeler.; both with 29 receptions on the season. Meanwhile Cayden Cooper and Cody Williams have combined to rush for 1,585 yards and 19-TDs. The aforementioned Cody Williams leads the team with 85 total tackles. Dade County has defeated four playoff teams this season. 

The Heard County Braves are in the playoffs for the 17th straight season and have only missed the playoffs once since 2000. The Braves are 2-2 in their last four games. Heard County is averaging 189.1 yards per game on the ground and 63.9 yards per game through the air. Isaiah Oneal leads the team  with 700 yards rushing and 9-TDs. Oneal also is one of the to receivers on the team with 16 receptions for 246 yards and a touchdown. The Braves have defeated four playoff teams, including a win over Region-6 No. 1 South Atlanta. All five of their losses have been to playoff teams. Heard County is averaging 18.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.4 points per game. 

This should be a fun matchup. Dade is a little more balanced on offense so that may gave them an edge. Brody Cooper’s passing efficiency also gives the Wolverines an edge. However, Heard County has played a very challenging schedule that has prepared them for a playoff run. Something tells us that Heard County has just enough success on the ground to steal a win up in Trenton this week. Braves by 1.

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TFR Cherokee County – GHSA Playoff Preview – Week-1

Posted on November 10, 2021 by admin

We have reached the second season as the GHSA Football Playoffs begin this weekend. There are two Cherokee County schools that have qualified for the post season. The Cherokee Warriors will be on the road taking on the Norcross Blue Devils. while the Creekview Grizzlies will go on the road to Carrollton and face the Carrollton Trojans on Saturday. Both Cherokee County teams do have a path to victory this week, but both Norcross and Carrollton are storied programs so we expect uphill battles this week. Previews of both games are below.

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 Norcross Blue Devils are in the playoffs for the sixteenth time in seventeen years under head coach Keith Maloof. The Blue Devils have won two state titles during that span. Norcross had won six straight games before falling last week to Archer. They’ve defeated three playoff teams this season and are averaging 27.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 12 points per game. They’ve only allowed 25 total points in region play. Norcross is relatively balanced on offense, averaging just under 130 yards per game through the air and 150 yards per game on the ground. Quarterbacks A.J. Watkins and Javan Brown have combined to throw for 1,118 yards and 14-TDs prior to last week’s regular season finale. Christian Williams leads the team in rushing while Nakai Poole is the leading receiver for the Devils. Zakye Baker has been a menace on defense along with Jeremiah Willis. Baker leads the team in total tackles while Willis leads Norcross in sacks. 

The Cherokee Warriors are in the post season for the sixth time in eight years. Cherokee closed out the season winning three of their last five. The Warriors have defeated two playoff teams this season and are averaging 23.6 points per game while allowing 24.4 points per game. They are led by quarterback A.J. Swann has thrown for 1,856 yards and 20-TDs. Adarrius Harshaw (29 receptions, 329, 4-TDs) and Caleb Richardson (26 receptions, 355, 6-TDs) have been Swann’s primary targets on the year. Cherokee has been pass heavy on offense, throwing for just under 200 yards per game while rushing for just under 75. Defensively, the Warriors are led by Tyler Goddard who leads the team in total tackles, sack leader Javon Hobson and Toby Thompson, who leads the team in tackles for loss. 

We believe Cherokee’s defense can keep them in this game, but the big test will be if Cherokee’s offense can move the ball against a very sound Norcross defense. Cherokee will get points on the board, but we like Norcross by 6 in a low scoring game. 

The Skinny

Since 1990, the Carrollton Trojans have only missed the playoffs one time. That’s an outstanding run of 30 out of the lat 31 season in which the Trojans were in the playoffs. They are winners of their last five games and are averaging 42.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.9 points per game. The Trojans have scored 35 or ore points in eight of their games this season. Quarterback M.J. Morris has thrown for 2,458 yards and 28-TDs. His top receivers are Ace Williamson (33 receptions, 503 yards, 6-TDs) Terrell Carmichael (29 receptions, 659 yards, 9-TDs) and Takare Lipscomb (42 receptions, 708 yards, 7-TDs). Sophomore running Bryce Hicks leads the teams in rushing with 604 yards and 9-TDs. The Trojans defense has intercepted 10 passes this season with Amare Hall leading the secondary with 5 to his own credit. Carrollton has defeated five playoff teams this season.

The Creekview Grizzlies are in the post season for the third time in four years. Creekview has won their lat three games and their two losses this season have come by a combined 14 points. The Grizzlies defense has recorded three shutouts this season. They are averaging 32.6 points per game and allowing 10.7 points per game. Quarterback Mason Hicks has now thrown for 1,515 yards and 22-TDs. He’s also rushed for 534 yards and 4-TDs. Tyler Stevens has been the workhorse win the backfield grinding out 761 yards and 9-TDs averaging 5.1 yards per carry. The versatile Stevens has also caught 33 passes for 341 yards and 5-TDs. Tristan Summers is having a banner senior year for the Grizzlies as he has caught 35 passes for 521 yards and 6-TDs. The Creekview defense has shutout three opponents on the year. They have defeated two playoff teams this season. 

Creekview is not going to blow you away getting off the bus, but they won’t be intimidated by the history and lore of Carrollton or Grisham Stadium. They play sound defense which will most definitely keep them in the game. Playing at home this week is a big advantage for the Trojans. While being at home for is nice for Carrollton, the real big advantage might be the Carrollton receivers We like the Trojans by 8.

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TFR Class 3A – GHSA Playoff Preview – Week-1

Posted on November 10, 2021 by admin

The GHSA Playoffs get under way on Friday night. The past few seasons, we have attempted to preview every playoff game. This season we are taking a bit of a different approach. We will give you our overall thoughts on each classification and then preview two of the top games for each classification. For our Class 3A – GHSA Playoff Preview we highlight the Ringgold vs. Hart County and Southeast Bulloch vs Long County games.

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)

Tale of the Tape

Defending Champion: Pierce County

Current No. 1: Pierce County (TFR)/ Monroe Area (GHSFD)

Best 1st Round Game: Ringgold-Hart County

Longest Playoff Drought:  Long County (First Appearance)

Week 1 Upset Alert: Southest Bulloch, Ringgold, Dawson County, Carver-Atlanta  

Final Four Predictions: Cedar Grove, Thomson, Monroe Area, Rockmart

Sleepers: Sandy Creek and North Hall

We like Cedar Grove to bounce back from last week’s loss to Sandy Creek and get on the right foot and win the state title. This might be one of the most wide open classifications from top to bottom. There are several great first round games including Rockmart-Stephens County, Dawson County-Sandy Creek, and Adairsville-Oconee County. Great down the line games include Crisp County-Oconee County, Hart County-Thomson, and Monroe Area-Sandy Creek.

We won’t be totally surprised to see a Cedar Grove vs Sandy Creek rematch in the state title game, but that’s not our projected matchup. The defending champions, Pierce County might feel slighted as we believe they are in one of the tougher brackets with Monroe-Area, Peach County and Sandy Creek. We believe Rockmart has the best path to the final four, but it’s certainly not automatic. As we mentioned before, this classification is really wide open so we wouldn’t be shocked to see a dark horse or two in the mix at the end.

The Skinny

The Ringgold Tigers are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2018. The Tigers have had one of their best seasons since their semifinal run in 2013. Ringgold had won nine straight games before falling to Rockmart last week in the de facto region title game The Tigers are averaging 38 points per game while the defense is allowing just 11.1 points per game. Kori Dumas is the work horse for the Ringgold offense. They’ve defeated two playoff teams this year. 

The Hart County Bulldogs will make the trip from Northeast Georgi this week. The Bulldogs are in the post season for the fifth straight season and since 1993, they’ve only missed the playoffs twice. Hart County is 2-2 in their last four games. Similar to Ringgold, Hart County has a work horse in the backfield as J.L. Lackey has punished defenders when he gets to the second level. Nori Moore has also been a great change of pace running back for Hart County. The Bulldogs have defeated four playoff teams this season.

This is certainly our pick for best first round game in Class 3-A. The Tigers have had a great season and home field advantage should help keep this close, but if J.L. Lackey is healthy, we like Hart County’s chances. Bulldogs by 7.

The Skinny

The Southeast Bulloch Yellow Jackets have advanced to the playoffs for the eighth time in the last nine years. Southeast Bulloch is averaging 32.9 points per game and allowing 9.5 points per game. This is one of the best scoring defenses in the regular season since 1982. The Yellow Jackets are averaging 107.2 yards per game through the air and 215.9 yards per game on the ground. The ground game is powered by Khristian Clark (548 yards, 10-TDs), A.J. Johnson (520 yards, 6-TDs), Tyler Griffin (478 yards, 7-TDs) and Tradon McBride (438 yards, 6-TDs). Griffin also leads the team in receiving with 23 receptions for 544 yards and 5-TDs. Jontavious Scott and Kyon Taylor are tops on the team in total tackles. The Yellow Jackets have defeated five playoff teams this season.

The Long County Blue Tide have advanced to playoffs for the first time in school history. Their five wins on the season matchups  school best. The Blue Tide are averaging 21.6 points per game while allowing 29.6 points per game. Long County is led on offense by sophomore running back Ahmari Douglas. Through the first nine games of the season, Douglas has rushed for 993 yards and 9-TDs. There is nothing fancy about the Long County offense. They line up with a full-house backfield and will try to wear down opposing defenses. In the first 9 games, Long County only attempted 22 passes. This is the first trip to the playoffs for the Blue Tide.

A win this week would advance Southeast Bulloch to the second round for the first time since 1974; and of course, a Long County win would represent the first post-season victory in school history. This might be one of the fastest played games across the state as both teams rely heavily on the ground. If the Blue Tide can keep the Southeast Bulloch offense on the sideline we like their chances. Something tells us to take Coach Pfiester and the upstart Blue Tide…So we will. Upset special..Long County by 2.

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TFR Class 4A – GHSA Playoff Preview – Week-1

Posted on November 9, 2021 by admin

The GHSA Playoffs get under way on Friday night. The past few seasons, we have attempted to preview every playoff game. This season we are taking a bit of a different approach. We will give you our overall thoughts on each classification and then preview two of the top games for each classification. For our Class 4A – GHSA Playoff Preview we highlight the Troup vs. Spalding and Mays vs. Flowery Branch games.

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)

Tale of the Tape

Defending Champion: Marist

Current No. 1: Carver-Columbus (TFR)/ Marist (GHSFD)

Best 1st Round Game: Spalding vs. Troup

Longest Playoff Drought:  Spalding 2017

Week 1 Upset Alert: Mays, Northwest Whitfield, Troup, Luella, Jenkins  

Final Four Predictions: Jefferson, Cedartown, Benedictine, North Oconee

Sleeper: Flowery Branch

Our pick for state champion in Class AAAA is the Jefferson Dragons. A lot of that is based on the assumption that both Malaki Starks and Sammy Brown are healthy for the Dragons. If the seeds hold in the first round, the Dragons will get a stiff test from Carver Columbus and Jaden Credle. We really believe the winner of that game will hoist the trophy in the end. Last year the Dragons got the best of Carver in the quarterfinals up in Jefferson. Expect for the Tigers to be ready for a dose of revenge. Benedictine has been on of the hottest teams as of late entering the playoffs. The Cadets have a potential quarterfinal matchup with Marist. Another hot team entering the playoffs is Region 8 champ North Oconee. We like the Titans chances of making a run to the semifinals. 

Other potential matchups down the line include Cedartown-Perry and Cedartown-Jefferson. One team not getting a whole lot of respect is the Bainbridge Bearcats. They are the No. 1 seed from Region-1 and have won a state title within the last four years. Our sleeper is Flowery Branch. The Falcons may be the best No. 3 seed in this bracket.

The Skinny

The Troup Tigers are in the post season for the sixth consecutive season. Troup has won 6 out of their last 7 games on the field, (and 7 of their last 8 including the forfeit win over Jordan last week). The Tigers are averaging 30.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.2 points per game. Since taking over as head coach in 2015, coach Tanner Glisson’s teams have averaged less than 30 points per game only twice. The Tigers are averaging a whopping 434 yards of total offense per game, with 132.9 coming through the air and 301.4 per game on the ground. Sophomore running backs Javari Fannin and T.J. Mitchell lead the fast break offense in rushing, while Dwartney Wortham is the team’s leading receiver. The Tigers have defeated three playoff teams this season. 

The Spalding Jaguars are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2017. The Jaguars won their last two games of the season. Spalding did beat region champ Perry back on October first, but faltered against Baldwin three weeks ago. The Jaguars are averaging 29.5 points per game and allowing 20.4. Quarterback Joe Braswell has thrown for 1,276 yards and 10-TDs while Nazir Berry has rushed for 1,010 yards and 16-TDs. Berry, Jaque Miller, and Jordan Jester have combined to catch 71 passes for 1,210 yards and 6-TDs. Spalding has defeated four playoff teams this season.

This Spalding team is tough to figure out. We know that it’s not a team to be taken lightly in the playoffs. Troup has not advanced past the first round since 2018. We believe they advance this week on the strength of the sophomore tandem at running back. Tigers by 9.

The Skinny

The Mays Raiders have only missed the post-season four times since 2002. Their three wins this season tie their lowest win total during that span. Mays enters the playoffs dropping their last two games. They area averaging 15.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 33.5 points per game. Most of those points were yielded against top-10 ranked Marist and other playoff teams from higher classifications. The Raiders are an intriguing team, because they have talented players all over the field. Quarterback Quintavius Johnson is tough to bring down in the backfield and is a dual threat quarterback. He has two capable receivers in Saulamon Evans and Jaqurion Wiggles. Almonte Duncan is one of the team’s leaders on defense. 

The Flowery Branch Falcons are in the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. The Falcons are winners of their last four games and are averaging 31.4 points per game while allowing 16.6. They have defeated three playoff teams this season. The Falcons do most of their damage on the ground, averaging just over 200 yards per game rushing while passing for just under 130 yards per game. Statistical leaders for the Falcons through 9 games are quarterback David Renaud (1,156 yards, 10-TDs), running back Myles Ivey (859 yards, 9-TDs) and receivers Jaheim Haynes (26 receptions, 391 yards, 2-TDs) and Connor Larson (29 receptions, 347 yards, 2-TDs). 

While Mays’ record doesn’t intimidate anyone, we believe that this is a team that can be competitive in the first round of the playoffs. However, the Falcons are battle tested and because they have a propensity to score more points than the Raiders, we like Flowery Branch by 13. 

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