Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 11 – Part I

Posted on October 27, 2021 by admin

We are down to the last two weeks of the regular season and playoff races are really starting to heat up. In this week’s GHSA Football Preview we take a look at a few games that either have region title implications, or where the right to host a home playoff game is on the line. Matchups include Jefferson vs. North Oconee, Trion vs. Mt. Zion-Carroll, Cartersville vs. Calhoun, and North Hall vs. Cherokee Bluff.

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 Jefferson Dragons have one final test before they can claim their third straight region title. The Dragons have got a lift in the backfield with Sammy Brown moving over from Commerce in the off-season. Brown has rushed for 753 yards and 11-TDs and leads the team on the year. Tre Reece is second on the team in rushing, while quarterback Malaki Starks is third, but Starks has missed the last three games. The Dragons are only averaging about two pass attempts per game, yet are outscoring their opponents 39.3 to 8. 

The North Oconee Titans are in search of their first region title since 2012. After going 1-3 in non-region play, the Titans have reeled off five straight wins but will certainly face their most difficult test as they travel to Jefferson on Friday. The Titans defense has shut out two opponents this season and is allowing 17.5 points per game while the offense is averaging 31.4 points per game. Over the last two weeks, Dominic Elder has rushed for 197 yards and 4-TDs. 

On paper, this might look like a runaway for Jefferson, but we don’t know the status for Sammy Brown or Malaki Starks. Even without their offensive workhorses, the Dragons proved the could move the ball last week. We like them again this week by 19.

The Skinny

The Trion Bulldogs will look to clinch a home field playoff game this week as the Mt. Zion Eagles of Carroll County come calling. The Bulldogs have turned things around from a season ago with most of the improvement coming on defense. They are allowing just 9.2 points per game after giving up over 30 points per game in 2020. Offensively, Rob Brown has been the go to guy for the Bulldogs. Through the first seven games, Brown has rushed for 1,024 yards and 17-TDs. Through that same span of seven games, quarterbacks Luke Eller and Kaden Smith have combined to throw for 1,000 yards and 10-TDs with Linkin Farrar as the team’s go to guy at receiver. The Bulldogs are averaging just over 140 yards per game through the air and just over 215 yards per game on the ground.

The Mt. Zion Carroll Eagles will also be looking to secure a home playoff game if they can get a win on the road. Mt. Zion had won four straight games before running up against a buzz-saw last week in region leader Bowdon. The Eagles are averaging 30.5 points per game while allowing 22.1 this season. They rely more on the run as they average just under 200 yards per game on the ground while throwing for just under 80 yards per game. Offensive leaders for the Eagles include running backs Sherrod Montgomery, Malachi Ackles and quarterback Stanley Cross. All of whom are underclassmen. 

While we have focused on offense this week, all of the pressure will be squarely on each defense to slow down these rushing attacks. We believe home field advantage is the difference this week, Trion by 3. 

The Skinny

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes are in search of their 10th region title in the past 11 seasons. The Canes are undefeated on the year and no one has been within 10 points of them since they defeated Class 7A Cherokee 24-14 back in mid-September. The Canes have relied a little more on the run this season, averaging 180.6 yards per game on the ground while throwing for 130.4 per game. Amari White and Malachi Jefffries have combined to run for 1,061 yards and 19-TDs, while Jake Parker has thrown for 1,034 yards and 13-TDs. The Cartersville offense is averaging 38.6 points per game on the year. 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets have won thiner last seven games and have not lost to a team in Georgia this season. The Jackets are averaging 43 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.5. Quarterback Christian Lewis spearheads on offense with plenty of weapons around him including Cole Speer, Gage Leonard, Peyton Law and Caden Williams among others. It will take a collective effort from all of the offensive weapons if they want to go down to Cartersville and get only their seventh win in 38 contests with Cartersville.  

Earlier in the season we suspected that Calhoun was the better team, but Cartersville has certainly hit their stride, even without some of the star power that we are used to them having. In case you did not know, this one is for a region title; and we like the Canes at home by a field goal. 

The Skinny

The North Hall Trojans have won their last five games entering this week. Yet this might be their toughest stretch of the season. The Trojans are averaging 32 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.5 points this season. It’s been almost all ground game for the Trojans as they are averaging 310 yards per game on the ground while just 28.9 yards per game through the air. Kevin Rochester leads the team with 1,101 yards and 14-TDs, while quarterback Bradford Puryear has rushed for 575 yards and 8-TDs. Jeremiah Telander leads the team in receiving and in total tackles. The Trojans have sacked opposing quarterbacks 15 times this season and forced 10 turnovers. 

Cherokee Bluff has a chance to wrap up its second consecutive region title this Friday night on the road. As we wrote last week, the Bears have been dominant on both sides of the ball averaging 48.1 points per game while allowing 7.8. Last week Cherokee Bluff eked out a 7-point win over Dawson County. It was the closest game of the season as no one had been within 30-points of them otherwise. Last week, the Bears rolled up 408 yards of offense, but were kept in check on the scoreboard.

North Hall’s ground game, might be able to help neutralize the powerful Cherokee Bluff offense. Something tells us the Bears get back on track this week. We like Cherokee Bluff by two touchdowns.

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TFR GHSA Week-10 High School Football Poll

Posted on October 24, 2021 by admin

This week’s GHSA Football Poll has been published. There were a handful of surprises this week, but perhaps the biggest was in Class 3-A as Monroe Area defeated previous No. 1, Oconee County. In other action in Class 7-A, Brookwood defeated Grayson while Milton knocked off rival, Roswell. The wins but both Milton and Brookwood firmly in the driver’s seat for region titles. Meanwhile in Class 6-A, Cambridge was upset by Riverwood. The loss drops the Bears from the polls and Riverwood debuts at No. 10 this week. The Class 5-A and Class 4-A poll remained unchanged.

The Cedar Grove Saints are our new No. 1 team in Class 3-A after the aforementioned Oconee County loss to Monroe Area. Carver-Atlanta finds themselves at No. 10 after defeating previously unbeaten Sandy Creek. Down in Class 2-A Jeff Davis drops from the poll after a loss to Swainsboro. That makes room for the Fannin County Rebels in at No. 10 this week for the first time this season.

Class A-Public remains unchanged while in Class A-Private, Athens Academy is back in the poll at No. 10.

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

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

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Cherokee County Football Previews – Week 10

Posted on October 20, 2021 by admin

This week in Cherokee County Football we have a couple of county rivalry games that might just help determine some playoff qualifications. All six county teams are in action as Cherokee hosts Alpharetta, Etowah hosts Woodstock in the Battle of Towne Lake, Creekview will be on the road at Chattahoochee and Sequoyah will host the River Ridge Knights in Hickory Flat.

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 Cherokee Warriors showed poise in their comeback victory over Etowah last week. Cherokee has almost certainly qualified for the post season (barring some unforeseen, but not completely out of the question things happening over the last three weeks), but now they will look to improve their seeding. Quarterback A.J. Swann leads the offense with 1,543 yards and 18-TDs. Receiver Caleb Richardson now has 6-TD receptions to his credit on the season and leads the team in receptions and receiving yards. The Warriors are averaging 23.8 points per game. Meanwhile, Kayan Simmons had a big night for Cherokee’s defense last week, especially in the second half. He’s third on the team in total tackles behind tackling machines Morgan Cox and Tyler Goddard. Last week was the best outing for the Warriors defense since Week-1. On the season, the Warriors are allowing 22.1 points per game. 

The Alpharetta Raiders return from the bye-week looking to punch their ticket to the postseason. Last time out they had their best offensive performance of the season scoring 51 points in a win over Woodstock. Quarterback Ben Guthrie has thrown for 1,362 yards and 12-TDs. The duo of speedster Matteo Carriere (32 receptions, 466 yards, 5-TDs) and Garrett Young (33 receptions, 359 yards, 3-TDs) lead Alpharetta in receiving. Alpharetta averages 206 yards per game through the air and 87.7 yards on the ground. The Raiders have sacked opposing quarterbacks 11 times and forced 7 turnovers. They are averaging 19 points per game while allowing 32. 

This game should be a gunslingers duel between Swann and Guthrie. Both secondaries will be put the test and we believe it will be a tight contest. But a healthier Adarrius Harshaw for the Warriors might be the difference. We like Cherokee by 4. 

The Skinny

The Etowah Eagles will look to pick up their first win as they host the Woodstock Wolverines in the Battle of Towne Lake. The Eagles will need to put the emotional loss of last week behind them quickly. Sophomore running back Elijah Washington rushed for 130 yards last week, bringing his season total to 408 yards and 2-TDs. He carried the ball 33 times against Cherokee. Will Curcio is the big play threat at receiver for Etowah. He notched a 71 yard TD reception for the Eagles last week. It was only their second passing touchdown of the season. Defensively, the Eagles are led by linemen Ryan Lee, Jadon Maddox, Aldon Datis and linebackers Will Pailthorpe and Alex Kirby. They are allowing 29 points per game, but last week, they only allowed 14. 

The Woodstock Wolverines will also be looking for their first win of the season as well this week. It has been a tough go of it for the Wolverines. They are averaging 9.1 points per game while allowing 43 points per game. They Wolverines will look to get things going through the air with junior quarterback Dan Comeau (1,216 yards, 5-TDs). Brady Williams leads the team in receiving with 36 receptions for 537 yards and 2-TDs while Preston Lawrence leads the Wolverines in rushing with 136 yards and 2-TDs. Woodstock is led defensively by the aforementioned Lawrence (38 tackles), Carson Gray (33 total tackles) and Benji Shackleford (39 total tackles). 

This game will certainly feature a contrast of styles with Woodstock slinging it all over the yard and Etowah grinding it out on the ground. We expect a defensive battle. Ultimately, we believe Etowah will be able to impose their will with their rushing attack in a close game. We like the Eagles by a touchdown.

The Skinny

The Chattahoochee Cougars will be looking for their first region win of the season as the Creekview Grizzlies come calling. It has been an uphill battle for the Cougars in 2021. They are only averaging 8.7 points per game while allowing 36.2. Quarterback Caleb Myers certainly does have big play capability with both his arm and his legs. He provided the only scoring last week for the Cougars on a 59 yard scramble. 

The Creekview Grizzlies will look to bounce back from last week’s loss to Riverwood. Nothing changes week in and week out for Creekview as they will look to their defense to help lead the way. On the season, Creekview is allowing 12.4 points per game. Cale Williams leads the team in total tackles with 54. Isaac Hubert leads the team with 5 sacks. The Grizzlies have forced 10 turnovers this season. Offensively, Creekview is averaging 29.7 points per game. 

After an emotional loss last week, the Grizzlies will need to regain composure against another talented dual threat quarterback in Caleb Myers. However, we like the Grizzlies to bounce back in a big way this week. Creekview by 30. 

The Skinny

The Sequoyah Chiefs got back on track last week with a big win over Chattahoochee. The win keeps the Chiefs slim playoff hopes alive. Sequoyah is now averaging 23 points per game. Jack Piscorz went over the 100-yard mark last week, rushing for 112 yards and 2-TDs. That brings his season total to 333 yards and 4-TDs. Sequoyah’s offense is led by quarterback Matthew Traynor who has thrown for 588 yards and 6-TDs. The Chiefs are averaging 85.7 yards through the air and 249.8 yards per game on the ground. Defensively, Sequoyah is allowing 22.2 points per game. Last week was the Chiefs second best defensive outing of the season.

The River Ridge Knights held on against a very game Centennial team last week as they look to keep pace and try to get back into playoff contention. Quarterback Carson Lathem has now thrown for 1,105 yards and 10-TDs. Jackson Head leads the team in receiving with 42 receptions for 610 yards and 5-TDs. River Ridge is now averaging 28.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.8 points. The Knights have been without running back Amehre Morrison for the last two games. 

It certainly is a different look River Ridge team without the home run threat of Morrison. If he plays this week, we like River Ridge, but without him, we believe the Chiefs have the edge. Either way, this should be a much closer contest than last season. We like the Knights by 2. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 10 – Part II

Posted on October 20, 2021 by admin

Week-10 of the Georgia high school football season might be one of the biggest weeks of the regular season as there are many games that will help determine region seedings and even region titles in some cases. This is Part-II of our Georgia High School Football Previews, in which we look at eight of the more intriguing matchups across the state of Georgia. In this post, we are bullish on Class AA as we preview three of the top games in the classification. Previews include Jefferson County vs. Putnam County, Fannin County vs Chattooga, Fitzgerald vs Thomasville and a class 3-A battle as Cherokee Bluff hosts Dawson 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 Jefferson County Warriors have shaken off a slow start to win their last five games. Jefferson County has done most of their damage on the ground this season, averaging 285.6 yards per game. The Warriors have only attempted 25 passes on the year. Quarterback Keyshawn Vaughner leads the team in rushing with 668 yards and 7-TDs, while sophomore Anthony Ruff is second on the team with 311 yards and 3-TDs. The Jefferson County defense  is allowing 13.2 points per game and has sacked opposing quarterbacks 17 times while forcing 17 turnovers. 

The Putnam County War Eagles are 7-0 for the second consecutive season. The War Eagles have been white-hot on offense, averaging 42.4 points per game while allowing a paltry 7.8 points per game on defense. Putnam is averaging 148.6 yards per game through the air and 247.4 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Gerald Kilgore has thrown for 1,005 yards and 10-TDs. Running backs Cedarrion Brundage (525 yards, 8-TDs) and Ze’marion Little (488 yards, 4-TDs) lead the team in rushing. 

This is another game that should determine first and second place in the region. Jefferson County has had the Warriors number in this short-lived series. However, the Putnam offense seems to be clicking on all cylinders this season. We like the War Eagles to breakthrough this week. Putnam by 8.

The Skinny

The Fannin County Rebels have won five straight games entering this Friday’s tilt. They are averaging 33 points per game while allowing 12.1. The Rebels are averaging 162.1 yards through the air and 210.7 yards per game on the ground. Quarterbacks Seth Reece and David Mashburn have combined to throw for 1,051 yards and 12-TDs. Reece also leads the team in rushing with 626 yards and 5-TDs. Cason Owensby, Andrew Waldrop and Carson Sands lead the Rebels in total tackles with a combined 192 total tackles. The Fannin defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 12 times and have forced 19 turnovers. 

The Chattooga Indians are also in the midst of a five game win streak. They are averaging 33.4 points per game while their defense is allowing 22.7. The Indians have only attempted 30 passes this season, but are averaging 300.6 yards per game on the ground. LaShaun Lester (822 yards 9-TDs) and sophomore Nick Hester (675 yards, 11-TDs) lead the team in rushing. Zander Cook (75 total tackles) and Rowan Burdick (54 total tackles) lead the defense. Cook also has a team leading 7 sacks while the aforementioned Hester has intercepted 4 passes. 

From our vantage point, this game sets up as the de facto region title game, barring any surprise results the last two games of the season. Expect for the Fannin defense to keep this game close, but we like the Chattooga ground machine to grind out a victory. Indians by 6.

The Skinny

The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes are winners of their last three games. They are averaging 24.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 11.2 points. The Hurricanes will rely heavily on the ground game with running backs Jakorrian Paulk, Sylon Davis and even linebacker E.J. Lightsey. Quarterback Sultan Cooper is a threat through the air, but don’t expect many pass attempts for the Canes this week. Fitzgerald’s defense, led by the aforementioned Lightsey, has not allowed more than 17 points in a game all season. 

The Thomasville Bulldogs are also winners of their last three games. The only blemish on their record is a loss to Class 3-A No. 1 Oconee County. The Bulldogs are averaging 109.4 yards per game through the air and 217.1 yards on the ground. Quarterback Shannen White has thrown for 812 yards and 9-TDs while Malik Harper and Ricky Fulton have combined to rush for 1,347 yards and 20-TDs. On the season, Thomasville is averaging 29.5 points per game. The Bulldogs have recorded 31 sacks on defense with Ty Anderson leading the team with 12. They’ve also forced 15 turnovers en route to allowing 15.7 points per game. 

This game should determine the region champ, although Fitzgerald still faces a formidable opponent in Cook. The big question is whether Thomasville can stymy the Fitzgerald rushing attack. We believe they can. Bulldogs by 9.   

The Skinny

The Cherokee Bluff Bears are 7-0 for the second consecutive season and are looking to win their second consecutive region title in their short four year history. The Bears have been dominant on offense, averaging 52 points per game while the defense has been equally as stout, allowing 7 points per game. Cherokee Bluff is averaging 111 yards through the air and 268.7 yards per game on the ground. Running back Jayquan Smith has been the bell-cow for the Bears, rushing for 953 yards and 14-TDs. Meanwhile, the defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 11 times and have forced 13 turnovers. 

The Dawson County Tigers have won four consecutive games after a slow start to the season. The Tigers are averaging 192.7 points per game through the air and 124.1 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Zach Holtzclaw has thrown for 1,326 yards and 11-TDs. His main target this season is Bailey Dameron who’s caught 40 passes for 888 yards and 6-TDs. The Tigers defense is led by Kade Moledor who has recorded 62 total tackles including 4 sacks. Dawson County has recorded 16 sacks on the season and is allowing 22.2 points per game. 

Cherokee Bluff has two games left on the schedule we believe could derail their region title plans and this is one of them. If the Bears can ground the Tigers air attack, they should have a good chance of winning this game. We like their chances. Cherokee Bluff by 8.

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 10 – Part I

Posted on October 20, 2021 by admin

Week-10 of the Georgia high school football season might be one of the biggest weeks of the regular season as there are many games that will help determine region seedings and even region titles in some cases. This is Part-I of our Georgia High School Football Previews, in which we look at eight of the more intriguing matchups across the state of Georgia. In this post, we will look at one of the top Class-A matchups in region-8 as Washington-Wilkes hosts Lincoln County and three Class 7-A battles for region supremacy as Roswell hosts Milton, Brookwood hosts Grayson and Lowndes hosts Colquitt 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 Washington-Wilkes Tigers are winners of their last six games. They sport perhaps the best player in Region-8 in Dalen Cobb. Cobb is a dual threat quarterback, throwing for 800 yards and 9-TDs and rushing for 810 yards and 12-TDs. Jamarquez Tyson leads the team in rushing with 856 yards and 12-TDs. Cobb’s primary target at receiver is Quinzabian Jackson with 24 receptions for 310 yards and 4-TDs. Washington Wilkes is averaging 38.2 points per game while allowing 13.1. The defense is led by linebacker Jo’Vares Harden with 65 total tackles. The defense has forced 17 turnovers on the season. 

The Lincoln County Red Devils come into this game winners of their last two. The Red Devils are averaging 26 points per game while allowing 19. Similar to Washington-Wilkes, Lincoln County will do most of their damage on offense with the ground game. They are averaging 264.7 yards per game rushing. Tevin Garterll has been the workhorse with 831 yards and 8-TDs on the season. Trey Huff (who is also the starting quarterback) leads the defense with 78 total tackles. 

This game is part of a three game round-robin involving these two teams and their games against Commerce over the last three weeks that will decide the region champion. We expect Dalen Cobb to be the difference in this one. Washington-Wilkes by 15. 

The Skinny

The Roswell Hornets return from their bye week looking at a chance to win their first region title in three years. The Hornets are led on offense by quarterback Robbie Roper who’s thrown for 1,619 yards and 20-TDs while completing 69.7% of his passes. Ryan Hill has led the team in rushing but his status for this game is up in the air right now. In the event he cannot go, sophomore Nykahi Davenport is more than capable of carrying the load as he proved their last time out. Ethan Nation and Shaun Spence have combined to catch 53 passes for 854 yards and 8-TDs. The defense is led by the aforementioned Nation and Hill Plunkett in the secondary. The Hornets defense has intercepted 6 passes this season. 

The Milton Eagles are looking to wrap up their fourth consecutive region title. They are in the midst of a five game win streak and are averaging 39.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.7 points per game. The Eagles average 183.4 through the air and 211.1 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Devin Farrell has thrown for 1,186 yards and 15-TDs. His primary targets are Debron Gattling, Adam Freas, and tight-end Jack Nickel. The trio has combined to catch 62 passes for 848 yards and 12-TDs, while Jordan McDonald has rushed for 524 yards and 5-TDs to pace the ground game. 

This game went down to the wire last season and we expect another competitive contest between these two rivals. If Roswell can limit turnovers and find success on the ground, we like their chances. That’s easier said than done against Milton’s talent laden defense. We like the Eagles by 9.

The Skinny

The Grayson Rams have will look to extend their string of three straight region titles. Grayson is averaging 22.7 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 16.3 points per game. Grayson has been run heavy this season on offense, averaging 214.5 yards on the ground. Joe Taylor (643 yards, 5-TDs), Dylan Elder (504 yards, 6-TDs) and quarterback Joseph Stone (499 yards, 4-TDs) lead the way on the ground for the Rams. On defense, Derrell Farrar and Jalen Smith lead the team with 90 total tackles each, while Mumu Bin-Wahad leads the secondary with 2 interceptions. The Rams have sacked opposing quarterbacks 17 times. 

The Brookwood Broncos have won their last three games coming into this week. The Broncos area averaging 34.1 points per game and allowing 20.5. Quarterback Dylan Lonegran has thrown for 2,031 yards and 18-TDs. His top receiver has been Alex Diggs with 39 receptions for 663 yards and 4-TDs. Diggs also leads the team in rushing with 456 yards and 7-TDs. Junior linebacker Micah McCain leads the team with 47 total tackles. The Broncos have sacked opposing quarterbacks 11 times. 

Brookwood’s Lonegran is a big time quarterback prospect but he will be tested by a very talented Grayson secondary. If Grayson can get the run game going they should be in the game late. However, we believe Lonegran passes this test. We like the Broncos by 5.  

The Skinny

The Lowndes Vikings have won four straight games entering this week’s matchup. Lowndes is averaging 34.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.8. The Vikings have a balanced attack averaging 173.3 yards per game through the air and 181.8 yards per game on the ground. Dual threat quarterback Jacurri Brown has thrown for 1,278 yards and 17-TDs while rushing for 566 yards. Chase Belcher and Jacarre Fleming have combined to rush for 832 yards and 15-TDs. Khris Thomas leads the team in receiving with 31 receptions for 457 yards and 2-TDs. 

The Colquitt County Packers have won six straight games coming into this week. They are averaging 40.5 points per game while allowing 21.6. Sophomore quarterback Neko Fann has found his stride, passing for 1,284 yards and 19-TDs. He’s joined in the backfield by Charlie Pace who’s rushed for 685 yards and 8-TDs. Sophomore receivers Ny Carr and Landen Thomas have combined to catch 41 passes for 767 yards and 15-TDs. The Packers have sacked opposing quarterbacks 22 times and forced 14 turnovers.

Both of these defenses will have their hands full this week trying to slow down explosive offenses. We believe Jacurri Brown will out-duel Neko Fann this week, but it won’t be a runaway. Lowndes by 4. 

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TFR GHSA Week-9 High School Football Poll

Posted on October 17, 2021 by admin

Week-9 is in the books and our Georgia High School Football Poll has been updated to reflect the results form this weekend. There were several top-10 matchups this week throughout most classifications. Class 7-A had North Cobb defeating Walton to get a leg up in region play. The loss drops Walton to No. 7 this week. Class 6-A also had Cambridge defeating Johns Creek in overtime. Cambridge and Johns Creek flip-flop spots in the poll this week with Cambridge at No. 8 and Johns Creek at No. 10.

Class 5-A has a new No. 1 as the Ware County Gators are back on top after beating previous No. 1 Warner Robins. In another Top-10 matchup, Cartersville beat Blessed Trinity which drops Blessed Trinity from our rankings this week. Meanwhile, Clarke Central makes their debut at No. 10. There was no change to the Class 4-A or 3-A Poll.

In Class 2-A it was Bleckley County edging Northeast Macon in a battle of Top-10 teams. Northeast drops to No. 8, otherwise the poll remains unchanged. Class A-Public remains unchanged, while First Presbyterian makes their debut at No. 10 in Class A-Private.

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

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

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 9 – Part II

Posted on October 13, 2021 by admin

This week marks the beginning of the home stretch of the Georgia High School Football season. It’s hard to believe that after this week, there will only be three weeks left in the regular season. This is Part II of our our Eight Greats Around the State. This week we highlight region games with great significance. We feature matchups between, Blessed Trinity-Cartersville; Johns Creek-Cambridge; Calvary Day-Savannah Christian; and Kennesaw Mountain-Kell.

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 Blessed Trinity Titans lost a region game for the first time in four years last week, falling to Calhoun by 5. The road isn’t any easier this week as Cartersville comes calling. The Titans are averaging 26.4 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 17.7 points per game. Justice Haynes is well over 1,000 yards rushing on the season and in his last four games he has rushed for 933 yards and 11-TDs. That’s an average of 233.2 yards per game. 

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes are undefeated through six games and have won ten consecutive regular season games dating back to last year. Quarterback Jake Parker has thrown for 750 yards and 7-TDs. Collin Fletcher has been his top receiver with 20 catches for 208 yards and 2-TDs. But don’t forget Amari White and Malachi Jeffries, who have combined for 823 yards and 15-TDs. Linebacker Myles Forristall continues to lead the team in total tackles with 35. As a team, the Canes are averaging 35.1 points per game while the defense is holding teams to 13.3 points. 

The Canes are as hot as just about any team in Class 5-A right now. Blessed Trinity is always a threat with a player like Haynes. We believe the Titans get back on track this week. It should be another tight game, but we expect another big game for Haynes and a 3 point Titan win.

The Skinny

The Johns Creek Gladiators are winners of their last four games and their only loss was to the highly ranked Carrollton Trojans. The Gladiators scoring is up from last season, averaging 34.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.6 points per game. Johns Creek posted their first shutout of the season last time out. Quarterback Kyle Durham has thrown for 867 yards and 9-TDs. His top two receivers are Joshua Thompson and Jaron Green. The duo has combined for 469 yards and 8-TDs. Meanwhile, workhorse Tylan Johnson has rushed for 772 yards and 5-TDs. Linebacker Sam Oppenheimer leads the defense with 56 total tackles. Terrian Williams leads the secondary with 2 interceptions. 

The Cambridge Bears are 5-0 for the first time in school history. Last week, the Bears recorded their third shutout of the season. The Bears are averaging 25.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 6.4 points per game. Quarterback Zach Harris has thrown for 1,011 yards and 8-TDs. Christian Isibor made his return to the lineup last week going over 100-yards. Isibor has rushed for 333 yards and 3-TDs on the season. Will Taylor has been the home run threat on offense for the Bears at receiver. 

Cambridge’s defense is undersized, but is fast and disciplined. Johns Creek might be the fastest team the Bears have faced this season. We believe Johns Creek’s speed will be the difference this week. We like the Gladiator by 4 in a low scoring game. 

The Skinny

The Calvary Day Cavaliers are off to their best start since 2016 when they one their last region title. They are averaging 33.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 11.7 points per game. Quarterback Jake Merklinger has thrown for 1,413 yards and 13-TDs. Freshman running back Donovan Johnson has rushed for 736 yards and 6-TDs on the year. Mercklinger’s top two receivers are a pair of sophomores in Caden Arnold and tight end Michael Smith. The duo has combined for 623 yards and 8-TDs. Sophomore linebacker A.J. Butts leads the team in total tackles. The Cavaliers have sacked opposing quarterbacks 13.5 times and forced 16 turnovers. 

The Savannah Christian Raiders have won three of their last four games. They are averaging 25.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.8 points per game. Quarterback Paulus Zittrauer has thrown for 822 yards and 6-TDs. George Futch is the leading receiver with 28 receptions for 489 yards and 6-TDs. But the Raiders have tended to be more of a run team. They are averaging 210 yards per game on the ground with 13 different backs recording carries on the year. Carter Allen leads the way with 268 yards and 5-TDs. Defensive lineman Caleb Womble has recorded 6 sacks on the season while Peyton Cromwell leads the team in total tackles.

Savannah Christian represents what we believe is the most difficult challenge for Calvary Day in region play. Merklinger has been outstanding. If the Cavaliers can block Caleb Womble, we believe their offense can get in rhythm. We like Calvary Day by 14. 

The Skinny

The Kennesaw Mountain Mustangs looked like they were well on their way to a region title before the unthinkable happened last week. The Mustangs will have to regroup after their loss to South Cobb as the Pope Greyhounds come calling. Kennesaw Mountain will look to get the air attack back in rhythm as they were held to 57 yards through the air last week. On the season quarterback Cayman Prangley has thrown for 1,055 yards and 13-TDs. Savion Riley and Jailon Taylor lead the Mustangs in receiving with a combined 28 receptions for 704 yards and 10-TDs. Linebacker Evan Voltaire leads the defense with 63 total tackles including 9 tackles for loss. Kennesaw Mountain has sacked opposing quarterbacks 13 times and forced 13 turnovers. The Mustangs are averaging 31.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 11.2 points per game.

The Pope Greyhounds are on a four game win streak entering Friday nights contest. The Greyhounds are averaging 27.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.6 points per game. Pope is averaging 171.7 yards per game through the air and 194.3 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Patrick Lowe has thrown for 988 yards and 7-TDs. Cam Bleshoy has been his primary target, catching 27 passes for 376 yards and 4-TDs. Phillip Sims is tops on the team in rushing with 531 yards and 8-TDs. Pope has forced 10 turnovers this season and sacked opposing quarterbacks 12 times. Senior linebacker Adam Jump has accounted for 9 of those sacks. 

Some of the luster of this game was diminished after Kennesaw Mountain lost last week. However, if they can bounce back, they could still secure a region title. Don’t expect for Pope to just lie down. We expect a nip and tuck ballgame but like the Mustangs by 4. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 9 – Part I

Posted on October 13, 2021 by admin

This week marks the beginning of the home stretch of the Georgia High School Football season. It’s hard to believe that after this week, there will only be three weeks left in the regular season. This is Part I of our our Eight Greats Around the State. This week we highlight region games with great significance. We feature matchups between, Walton-North Cobb; Bleckley County-Northeast; Ware County-Warner Robins; and Troup-Carver Columbus.

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 Walton Raiders will be looking for their third straight victory as they host North Cobb on Friday night. The Raiders have a balanced attack, averaging 137.2 yards per game through the air and 121 yards per game on the ground. Walton will use two quarterbacks with Zak Rozsman and Jeremy Hecklnksi. The tandem has combined for 915 yards and 8-TDs. Sutton Smith and Braylen Stokes also provide a potent 1-2 punch at running back for the Raiders. Walton is averaging 37.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 28 points per game. 

North Cobb is in the midst of a five game win streak. Since their opening week loss, they have not scored fewer than 40 points in a game. Junior quarterback Malachi Singleton has thrown for 1,345 yards and 15-TDs. He has also not thrown an interception all season. Singleton also leads the team in rushing with 446 yards on the ground. De’ Nylon Morrissette, Sam Mbake, and Reggie Givhan are the top receivers for the Warriors. North Cobb is averaging 39 points per game while the defense is allowing 16 points per game. 

The winner of this game will be in the driver’s seat for the Region title. The Raiders have enough talent and team speed to compete with the Warriors. However, we believe North Cobb is deeper at the skill positions. We like North Cobb by a touchdown on the road.  

The Skinny

The Bleckley County Royals are 6-0 for the first time since 1991. The Royals will have their biggest tests of the season over their next two games. Quarterback Eli Mullis has thrown for 772 yards and 7-TDs. But the bulk of the Royals offense comes by way of the rushing attack. The Royals are averaging 180.3 yards per game on the ground and are led by junior Jahvon Butler, who has rushed for 897 yards and 9-TDs. Bleckley is averaging 26 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.5 points per game. 

The Northeast Macon Raiders have won three straight games coming into Friday’s game. The Raiders are averaging 30.8 points per game while the defense is allowing. 12.1 points per game. The Raiders offense is averaging 397.8 yards of offense per game. The majority of that comes by way of the run game with Tyler Terry and Kalik Evans combining for 1,179 and 15-TDs. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 9 times and forced 8 turnovers. 

Bleckley has been outstanding during their run, but we believe that Northeast’s defense will keep the Royals at bay. We like Northeast by 8 on the road.  

The Skinny

The Ware County Gators bounced back from their loss to Benedictine with a resounding victory over Coffee last week. The challenge is just as stiff this week as they host the Warner Robins Demons. Statistically, the Gators are about as balanced as you can get, averaging 258.7 yards per game in the air and 258.7 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Thomas Castellanos has thrown for 1,534 yards and 14-TDs while Cartevious Norton paces the Gators on the ground with 832 yards and 8-TDs. Ware is averaging 44 points per game on offense and 20.3 points per game on the ground. 

The Warner Robins Demons were off last week, but they will be looking to continue their mastery of the 2021 season. The Demons have won 15 straight games dating back to last season. This season, they are averaging 54.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 22.3 points per game. Quarterback Christon Lane has thrown for 1,393 yards and 18-TDs , completing 65% of his passes. Running back Malcolm Brown has rushed for 892 yards and 13-TDs, while Daveon Walker has caught 33 passes for 681 yards and 7-TDs. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 16 times and forced 13 turnovers. 

We expect for the scoreboard operator will be extremely busy this Friday night down in Waycross. Home field advantage should help the Gators a little, but we expect the Demons offense to overwhelm Ware County this week. Demons by 17.

The Skinny

The Troup Tigers have won their last five games and have pitched two consecutive shutouts. They are averaging 34.2 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 17.5 points per game. Troup has racked up yards on the ground, averaging 301.4 yards. Running backs T.J. Mitchell and Javari Fannin have combined for 1,347 yards and 12-TDs. Dwartney Wortham leads the team in receiving with 29 catches for 502 yards and 7-TDs. 

The Carver Tigers have also won their last five games just like Troup. Carver is averaging 316.8 yards per game on the ground. But they aren’t a one trick pony as quarterback Devin Riles has thrown for 881 yards and 6-TDs. Jaiden Credle has been the workhorse for Carver with 978 yards and 12-TDs. The Carver defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 20 times this season with Cameron Crowell leading the way with 6. Carver is averring 34.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.6 points per game. 

Troup represents seemingly the biggest challenge left on Carver’s schedule. Both teams can put points on the board, but we believe Carver is a little more explosive and balanced. We like Carver by 9.

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Cherokee County Football Previews – Week 9

Posted on October 12, 2021 by admin

It’s hard to believe that we are entering the final quarter of the regular season of high school football in the state of Georgia. This week, five Cherokee County teams are in action and we will preview the four games, involving the five teams in this edition of Cherokee County Football Previews.

First up the County’s oldest rivalry game takes place as Cherokee hosts Etowah. Will the Warriors get back on track, or will the Eagles spoil the homecoming festivities at Tommy Baker Field? Next up, Sequoyah hosts Chattahoochee. Both of these teams need a region win to stay alive for a post season spot. Meanwhile, The River Ridge Knights travel to Centennial as these two teams look to keep pace in the playoff race. Can River Ridge bounce back or will Centennial shock Region-7? Finally, the Creekview Grizzles take their show in the road and will face a talented Riverwood Raiders squad. Will the Grizzlies defense dominate again?

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 Cherokee Warriors are back at home this week as they can clinch a payoff spot with a win over rival Etowah. Cherokee will be looking to get back on track after being blitzed by Roswell a week ago. The Warriors will need to shore up the run defense as their opponent will rely heavily on the ground game. Cherokee’s defense is allowing 23.4 points per game and the 41 allowed last week was the most all season. Offensively, the Warriors are averaging 25.2 points per game. Quarterback A.J. Swann has thrown for 1,026 yards and 11 TD-s. 

The Etowah Eagles are still in search of their first win of the season. It won’t be easier this week as they travel to Canton. Elijah Washington scored on a pair of touchdown runs to help pace the Eagles on offense last week. The 14 points scored against Milton are the most the Etowah has scored in a game all season. They are averaging 5.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 31.5.

On paper this looks like an almost sure fire win for the Warriors. But we’d advise Cherokee not to look past the Etowah. The Warriors have been a little inconsistent this season. However, we believe Coach Shaw will have his Warriors refocused. Cherokee by three touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Sequoyah Chiefs will be back at home this week after a road trip to Cambridge left the Chiefs winless in region play. It is a must win game for Sequoyah if they want to keep any hopes of post-season play alive. Sequoyah was held scoreless last week and is in the midst of a 3-game skid. Sequoyah is averaging 19.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 24.8. 

The Chattahoochee Cougars are also in search of their first region win and like the Chiefs, this is a must win game if they want to keep any playoff hopes alive. Chattahoochee is also on a 3-game skid and were shutout their last time out. The Cougars are averaging 9 points per game, but allowing 35 points per game on defense. For them to have success this week, they will have to be disciplined against Sequoyah’s Wing-T. Chase Washington and Reeko Johnson will be key along the defensive front this week for Chattahoochee. If they can help disrupt the run game, the Cougars could get a big road win.

Both teams are reeling and looking to find some footing in the second half of region play. We don’t expect a shutout from either defense, but we believe the Chiefs offense can have some success this week. Sequoyah by three touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Centennial Knights are coming off their bye week looking for their second region win of the season, hoping to keep pace with the top region teams. The Knights have used two quarterbacks this season, Tyler Laskaris and Carter Wit. The duo has combined for 438 yards and 4-TDs. Wit also leads the team in rushing with 486 yards and 2-TDs. Sophomore Nathan Webster is second on the team in rushing with 329 yards and 2-TDs. Centennial is averaging 13.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 25.1 points per game. 

The River Ridge Knights will look to get back on track and stop their two game skid. The Knights have been without their homerun threat in the backfield, Amehre Morrison, the last two weeks and we don’t know his status for Friday night. Tyler Carter and Gabe Bolden have shown ability in spots. Carson Lathem has thrown for 940 yards and 8-TDs on the year while Jackson Head and Andrew Bingham have been key receivers for the Knights this season. River Ridge is averaging 28.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 21 points per game. 

Both teams need this game to keep their playoff hopes alive. Centennial is improved from a year ago, but even if Morrison does not play, River Ridge has enough weapons to win on the road. Knights by 17.

The Skinny

The Riverwood Raiders had an extra week to prepare for this week’s matchup as they were off last week. Quarterback Avery Smith is having a big senior season, throwing for 1,831 yards and 18-TDs. He’s also completing 65% of his passes. Smith also leads the Raiders in rushing with 544 yards and 4-TDs. The senior signal caller has plenty of weapons surrounding him including receivers Tim Dorce (26 receptions, 419 yards, 5-TDs), Levi Linowes (19 receptions, 442 yards, 5-TDs), and Zach Cigelske (20 receptions, 438 yards, 5-TDs). Riverwood is averaging an astonishing 503 yards of total offense per game. On the defensive side of the ball, Burke Cigelski also leads the team in tackles.

The Creekview Grizzlies will roll into Sandy Springs looking for their third straight win over Riverwood. Last week, the Grizzlies defense was dominant in the second half as they cruised past River Ridge, holding the Knights scoreless after halftime. Creekview is averaging 30 points per game and we must admit, the Grizzlies have really opened up the playbook this season. Senior quarterback Mason Hicks has been effective under center, throwing for 890 yards and 12-TDs. Tyler Stevens has also been steady on the ground with 437 yards and 8-TDs. Stevens has also caught 20 passes out of the backfield.  

We really like the Grizzlies defense. There is nothing “gummy” about these Bears! But Avery Smith may be the most athletic quarterback they’ve faced all season. We don’t see any way that Riverwood gets close to 500 yards of total offense. But we believe Smith does enough to edge the Grizzlies at home. Raiders by 2.

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TFR GHSA Week-8 High School Football Poll

Posted on October 10, 2021 by admin

Our GHSA High School Football poll has been released. There were some interesting outcomes over the weekend. Two games that really got our attention were Pebblebrook beating East Coweta and South Cobb defeating Kennesaw Mountain. While the top team in each classification stayed the same, there was some shakeup down the line in each classification this week.

In Class 7A, Roswell makes their debut in our poll after beating Cherokee soundly. They replace East Coweta at No. 10. Class 6A sees the South Paulding Spartans and the Cambridge Bears make their debut at No. 9 and No. 10 respectively. Meanwhile, two of the Top-10 teams in class 5A lost this weekend, but they stay ranked this week. Coffee falls to No. 9 while Blessed Trinity stays at No. 10 this week.

Over in Class 4A, the Spalding Jaguars make their debut in the Top-10 at No. 8. They were off this week but scored a big win over Perry two weeks ago. The North Oconee Titans are in at No. 10 after defeating Flowery Branch on Friday. While, in Class 3A, Cedar Grove fell to Class 7-A Lowndes by a touchdown. However, the Saints remain at No. 2 this week. Sandy Creek makes there debut at No. 9, while Crisp County got an impressive win over Peach County to re-enter the poll at No. 10.

Haralson County scored a huge win over Callaway in Class 2-A. That win has Haralson at No. 8 this week while Callaway drops to No. 10. Down in Class-A Public, Macon County got a big win over Schley County in a Top-10 matchup. The loss dropped Schley to No. 9 this week, while Emmanuel County Institute is in at No. 10 this week. Finally, in Class A-Private, the carousel at the bottom of the poll continues to go round and round. This time, it’s Stratford Academy coming in at No. 10.

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

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

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