Cherokee County Football Previews – Week 8

Posted on October 6, 2021 by admin

We are in the midst of region play here in Cherokee County with all six county teams in action this week. We have five games to preview in this edition of Cherokee County Football Previews. First Etowah hosts Milton. Can the Eagles find a way to slow down the “Milton Express”? The Woodstock Wolverines travel to Etowah in search of their first win, while Roswell and Cherokee will lock horns to determine who might secure that second seed an an all important first round home playoff game.

In Class 6A, the Sequoyah Chiefs face the Cambridge Bears. This is almost a must win for the Chiefs. Meanwhile, the River Ridge Knights will host the Creekview Grizzlies. This game was an overtime thriller last year! Can the Grizzlies exact some revenge or will the Knights continue their stranglehold on county opponents?

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 Etowah Eagles continue their brutal regular season schedule as they host the Milton Eagles. Etowah’s defense held the explosive Roswell Hornets to just 15 points last week. It’s the second time this season the Etowah defense has answered the bell and slowed down an explosive offense this season. Until Etowah can find some success through the air, they will need to continue to play solid defense and hope for some turnovers and short fields to help get some points on the board. Etowah is averaging 4 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.

Milton Comes in as one if the top teams in the State. They’ve won four straight games and are averaging 37.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.8. Milton has stars all over the field. Quarterback Devin Farrell has thrown for 929 yards and 11-TDs. Jordan McDonald joins him in the backfield and has run for 524 yards and 5-TDs. Debron Gatling, Adam Freas and Jack Nickel have combined to catch 50 passes for 661 yards and 10-TDs. Milton has sacked opposing quarterbacks 13 times with A.J. Crawford leading the way at 6. Expect L.T. Overton to also get after Etowah this week. 

There is a huge talent disparity in this games. Etowah will really need to force a a few turnovers and find some rhythm offensively to have a chance to pull the upset. That’s possible, but not probable. We like Milton by 30.   

The Skinny

The Alpharetta Raiders are in the midst of a five game losing skid. But they have played some of the top teams in the state. All of their opponents have been ranked with the exception of Chattahoochee, whom they beat. The Raiders are averaging 13.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 36.1. Quarterback Ben Guthrie is completing 66.2% of his passes for 1,059 yards and 6-TDs. Matteo Carriere has been Guthrie’s go to receiver with 28 receptions for 305 yards and 2-TDs. The Raiders are averaging 189.5 yards per game through the are and only 77.2 yards per game on the ground. 

The Woodstock Wolverines are in search of their first win of the season. They are led on offense by quarterback Dan Comeau who has thrown for 744 yards and 2-TDs. His top receivers have been Brady Williams and Adonis Garcia who have combined for 32 receptions for 401 yards. The Wolverines are still trying to find success on the ground as they are only averaging 39.6 yards per game on the ground. Woodstock has improved offensively over the last few weeks. Preston Lawrence and Benji Shackleford lead the defense with 30 and 31 total tackles respectively. 

Both of these teams need a win in the worst way. Although it’s early in the season, we believe the loser of this team will likely be eliminated from the playoffs. Woodstock will be competitive, but Alpharetta has been a little more consistent on offense. We like the Raiders by a touchdown.  

The Skinny

The Cherokee Warriors got back into the win column and broke a 3-game skid with a big win over Woodstock last week.  Cherokee will now focus their attention to the Roswell Hornets. Cherokee got a big game last week from A.J. Swan who tossed five touchdowns in the victory. Swann has now thrown for 15-TDs and 1,135 yards in six games. Seniors Caleb Richardson, Aidan Moore and sophomore Pops Jameson have filled in nicely or the injured Adarius Harshaw. We aren’t sure if Harshaw will be back this week, but if not, Cherokee has capable receivers. The Warriors are averaging 27.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.5.

The Roswell Hornets also got back into the win column last week with a win over Etowah. They were without their starting quarterback last week, but we hope to see Robbie Roper this week in what could be a great quarterback battle. Roper remains one of the top passers in Class 7A even without playing last week. Backup quarterback K.J. Smith completed 72% of his passes in the win. The Hornets will look to running back Ryan Hill (321 yards, 5.7 per carry) to keep Cherokee honest. 

While we focused this preview on offense, it will really be up to the defenses to slow down these effective and highly rated quarterbacks. We are going to assume Roper is playing. We like Roswell by 3 if he plays. If he doesn’t, we like Cherokee by 10.

The Skinny

The Cambridge Bears look to keep pace atop the Region 7-6A standings with a win this week. The Bears defense has been one of the best in the region this season, allowing 8 points per game. They’ve recorded two shutouts on the year. Senior Quarterback Zach Harris has thrown for over 700 yards and has a one-two punch with him in the backfield with Jack Marlow and Christian Isibor who recently returned from injury. The Bears are averaging 25.2 points per game. 

The Sequoyah Chiefs will be looking to bounce back after last week’s loss to rival Creekview. The Chiefs will be looking to cash in on some of their long drives with points as they weren’t able to sustain drives last week. We know that Sequoyah is going to run the football as they are well over 1,000 yards as a team. The Chiefs are averaging 23.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 24.2 points per game. 

The Chiefs secondary will be tested this week. But we believe the real trouble for Sequoyah will be slowing down Isibor and Marlow. This is a must win game for Sequoyah to stay in the playoff hunt. We believe Cambridge’s defense is the real deal. Bears by 8.

The Skinny

The River Ridge Knights will look to get back on track this week as they will be at home for the second consecutive week. The Knights allowed the most points in a regular season game in over two years. Even with the defensive letdown last week, River Ridge is still only allowing an average of 17.6 points per game. Offensively, River Ridge is averaging 30.8 points per game. It will be imperative for the River Ridge defense to slow down Tyler Stevens this week and perhaps make Creekview one-dimensional. 

The Creekview Grizzlies were back to their winning ways as they defeated rival Sequoyah last week in convincing fashion. Creekview’s defense was dominant as usual. On the season they are allowing 7 points per game. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks nine times and forced seven turnovers. The offense had their biggest outburst in three weeks. They were efficient last week as Mason Hicks completed 92.2% of his passes with 3-TDs. Tyler Stevens continues to lead the way on the ground with 306 yards and 7-TDs. 

A win this week by both teams would help keep not only their playoff hopes alive, but also the slim chance of a region title would still remain. Can Creekview’s young offensive line hold up against an impressive defensive line? Or will River Ridge break out offensively. We think the Grizzlies defense carries them this week. Creekview by 3. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 8 – Part II

Posted on October 6, 2021 by admin

As we reach Week-8 in the GHSA Football season, region play begins to heat up for most teams and we are finding out whether teams are contenders or not. This is Part II of our Eight Greats Around the State which feature some of the top Georgia High School Football matchups across the state this week. In this edition, we preview Lowndes-Cedar Grove, Schley County-Macon County, Blessed trinity Calhoun and North Oconee Flowery Branch.

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 Lowndes Vikings will be back in the friendly confines of Martin Stadium again for the third consecutive week. The Vikings are undefeated at home this season. Dual threat quarterback Jacurri Brown leads the way with 913 yards passing and 409 yards rushing. He has accounted for 17-TDs this season. The Vikings have a balanced attack on offense, averaging 170.2 yards through the air and 173.8 on the ground. The Lowndes defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 15 times with W.C. Fulton leading the way with 7.5. As a team, Lowndes is allowing 24.3 points per game.

The Cedar Grove Saints will take their second trip of the season to South Georgia to face a 7-A opponent. The Saints have won three straight and are winners of their last three games; having shutout two of those opponents. Running back Rashad Dubinion leads the way with 627 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns. Janarin Bonner and Bernard Mack are the top receivers for Cedar Grove. We mentioned the defense earlier, they are allowing 9.2 points per game. Adonijah Green leads the team in total tackles, but know that Christen Miller and Carlton Madden will be impact players for the Saints defense. 

This is another big road test for Cedar Grove. We believe the Saints will keep it close, but we like Lowndes and their depth at home over the Class 3-A Saints. Vikings by 7.

The Skinny

The Schley County Wildcats have dominated their competition this season. We first took note of the Wildcats when they shutout Wilcox County back in early September. Offensively, Schley County is averaging 46 points per game while the defense is allowing 6.6 points per game. They shutout their first three opponents this season. Quarterback Jay Kanazawa has thrown for 862 yards and 11-TDs. Jalewis Solomon is the primary target with 26 receptions for 468 yards and 6-TDs. Meanwhile, running backs Zayden Walker and Malachi Banks have combined to rush for 968 yards and 18-TDs. The Wildcats have forced 20 turnovers this season. 

The Macon County Bulldogs have also been just as dominant as Schley County. The Bulldogs are averaging 41.6 points per game while the defense is allowing a paltry 2.8 points per game. They’ve only given up two touchdowns all season and have shutout out their other four opponents. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 29 times with Kenwan Felton leading the way with 10. The defense has forced 22 turnovers this season.  Offensively, quarterback Landon Austin has thrown for 655 yards and 11-TDs; he’s also added 7-TDs on the ground. 

Neither team’s offense has been tested like they will be on Friday night. Macon County’s defense is about as tough as they come, but we believe home field advantage for Schley will be key…Along with their explosive offense. Don’t expect a runaway. Schley County by 4.

The Skinny

Blessed Trinity has gotten back to their winning ways over the last three weeks. The Titans have run their record to 4-2 and  are now in a two game stretch that will most likely decide the region title. Blessed Trinity’s offense is averaging 26 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.3. It should be noted that in both of the Titans losses, they were without star running back Justice Haynes. In his last three games, Haynes has rushed for 689 yards and 7-TDs. 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets have won four consecutive games and have not lost to a team in the state of Georgia this season. The Jackets are averaging 44.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 20 points per game. Over the last two weeks, Quarterback Christian Lewis’ has thrown for 530 yards. Lewis has a bevy of weapons around him on offense including Gage Leonard, Cole Speer, Peyton Law and Quin Smith. 

With Justice Haynes in the lineup, Blessed Trinity is always going to have a chance to win. The biggest question is weather or not the Titans can slow down the Jackets explosive offense. We expect a shootout this week. We like Calhoun to get their first win against the Blessed Trinity. Jackets by 3.

The Skinny

The North Oconee Titans have won back to back games to run their region record to 2-0. The victories have helped the Titans keep pace with Jefferson and Cedar Shoals in the region. North Oconee is averaging 28.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 24 points per game. The Titans have been up against some stiff competition this season as their losses have come against highly rated Oconee County, Benedictine and an undefeated Cambridge team. North Oconee’s defense is allowing 24 points per game this season.

The Flowery Branch Falcons were off last week. Prior to the bye week, the Falcons had dropped two of their last three games. Now they are looking for their first region win. The Falcons are averaging 30 points per game while the defense is allowing 18 points per game. Flowery Branch’s best win this season was a 21-14 victory over St. Pius. 

The winner of this game keeps their hopes alive to host a first round playoff game. North  Oconee may be flying under the radar but we believe David Renard and Flowery Branch breaks through. Falcons by 9.

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 8 – Part I

Posted on October 6, 2021 by admin

As we reach Week-8 in the GHSA Football season, region play begins to heat up for most teams and we are finding out whether teams are contenders or not. This is Part I of our Eight Greats Around the State which feature some of the top Georgia High School Football matchups across the state this week. In this edition, we look at four games that some might view as de facto region championships when it is all said and done. Games previewed in this edition include Athens Christian-Prince Avenue Christian, Peach County-Crisp County, Coffee-Ware County, and Hart 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 Athens Academy Spartans will look to get back to their winning ways this week after a loss a week ago. Prior to last Friday, the Spartans had won four straight games. Athens Academy is averaging 33.1 points per game while allowing 27.6 points per game. In their four wins, the Spartans are averaging 47.5 points per game. However, in their two losses, they are averaging 4.5 points per game. 

The Prince Avenue Christian Wolverines have reeled off five straight wins after falling to Calvary Day on the road in Week-1. The Wolverines are averaging 43.5 points per game. Sophomore quarterback Aaron Philo has now thrown for 1,904 yards and 21-TDs. The Wolverines are averaging 340 yards through the air and a sparse 69.2 yards per game on the ground. The Wolverines defense has forced 19 turnovers this season. They are allowing 11.5 points per game. 

Prince Avenue won this game by a wide margin last season. But hat was when Brock Vandagriff was playing quarterback. While the Wolverines don’t have Vandagriff, Aaron Philo should provide plenty of offense to get a win and take charge in region 8 A-Private. We like the Wolverines by four touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Peach County Trojans have won three street games and look to be poised to make another state title run. The Trojans have shut out their last two opponents on the season and are allowing 16 points per game. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 21 times already. Thirteen different Trojans have recorded a sack this season. The Peach County offense is averaging 38.6 points per game as they’ve put up big offensive numbers the last two weeks. Quarterback Christian Martin has thrown for 527 yards and 8-TDs and has also rushed for 201 yards and 2-TDs. 

The Crisp County Cougars have also won three straight games since starting region play. The Cougars are averaging 24.6 points per game and the defense  is allowing 15.1 points per game. Crisp County quarterbacks Jack Carter and Ahmad Brown have combined for 718 yards and 7-TDs. Marquise Palmer leads the team in rushing with 447 yards and 5-TDs. The aforementioned Brown and Trae Walker lead the team in receiving. Senior defensive back Eric Ivory Jr. leads the team with three interceptions.

These teams played a tight game last season and we believe this will be just as competitive. Peach County is a little more explosive on offense this season than Crisp and that’s why we like the Trojans at home. Peach by 10.

The Skinny

The Coffee Trojans are 6-0 for the second time in four years. While one of those wins was by forfeit, the Trojans have been dominating most of their competition. Coffee is averaging 33.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 7.6 points per game. The Trojans are doing it with a balanced attack on offense, averaging 173.4 points through the air and 169 yards per game on the ground. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 18 times. Brandon High leads the team with 6 sacks. 

The Ware County Gators will look to get back in the win column after a loss their last time out. The Gators are averaging 45.8 points per game. It has been the Thomas Castellanos show again this year as he’s passed for 1,300 yards and 12-TDs and rushed for 405 yards and 7-TDs. Cartevious Norton leads the Gators on the ground with 708 yards and 6-TDs. Ware has been balanced on offense as well with 263.6 yards through the air and 259.8 yards on the ground. 

It appears that both of these teams will be chasing Warner Robins, so a win here would go a long way in helping to at least secure a first round home playoff game. We like Coffee’s defense, but don’t believe Coffee’s offense will keep pace this week. Ware by 7.

The Skinny

Hart County is in the midst of a three way tie for first place in Region 8-3A. The Bulldogs recorded their first shutout of the season last week. Overall, they are averaging 50.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.8 points per game. The Bulldogs are 6-0 for the first time since 2014. J.L. Lackey has been a touchdown machine for the Bulldogs. Expect them to lean on Lackey in hopes that he can have another multi-touchdown game.

The Oconee County Warriors will continue their region title defense on the road in Hartsville. The Warriors are off to a 6-0 start for the second consecutive season. Oconee County is almost mirroring their offensive production from a season ago, averaging 28.8 points per game. Quarterback Jacob Wright has thrown for over 1,000 yards and 13-TDs on the season while running back C.J. Jones has rushed for 600 yards and 6-TDs. Jake Johnson and Darius Johnson Jr. lead the Warriors in receiving.

Hart County’s offense has been downright dominant this season, but they haven’t faced a defense as strong as Oconee’s this season. Playing at home should give the Bulldogs some momentum, but we like the road Warriors by 4.

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TFR GHSA Week-7 High School Football Poll

Posted on October 3, 2021 by admin

Another week of high school football is in the books here in the great state of Georgia. There was some shake up in our Georgia High School Football poll this week, but the top teams in each classification remained the same. Both Class 7A and 5A remained unchanged this week. In Class 6A, Langston Hughes jumps to No. 3 with a big win over region and neighborhood rival Westlake. Meanwhile, Johns Creek is back in the poll at No. 10 this week.

The Perry Panthers suffered their first loss on the year on Friday, falling to Spalding. That drops the Panthers to No. 8 in our Class 4A poll. In Class 3A, it was the Pierce County Bears falling to Rabun County at home. The Bears are down to No. 5 this week. Class 2A remained relatively unchanged. Northeast Macon beat Washington County by 4 in a battle of Top-10 teams. The loss drops Washington County to No. 10 this week.

The top 9 in Class A-Public remained unchanged this week. Wilcox County finds themselves back in the top-10 at No. 10 this week. Meanwhile, Trinity Christian defeated E.L.C.A. in a battle of Class A-Private top five teams. The loss drops E.L.C.A to No. 4 this week while St. Anne-Pacelli makes their debut appearance in our poll at No. 10 this week.

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

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

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

Cherokee County Football Previews – Week 7

Posted on September 29, 2021 by admin

Welcome back to our Cherokee County High School Football Previews. After a week off for fall break, all six Cherokee County teams are back in action this week. First the Woodstock Wolverines host the Cherokee Warriors. Have the Wolverines dialed in a formula that might shock the county this season or will the Warriors get back on track? The Etowah Eagles travel to Roswell on Friday night. Will the Eagles defense wreak havoc this week or will Roswell’s passing game rule the day? Down in Woodstock, the River Ridge Knights will host the Riverwood Raiders. Riverwood gave the Ridge all they could handle last season. Will they pull the upset or will the Knights hold serve at home. Finally, the Creekview Grizzlies host rival Sequoyah. The Grizzlies have owned this series but the Chiefs are primed for a big game. Who will have bragging rights in the battle of East Cherokee?

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 Woodstock Wolverines return from the bye week in search of their first win of the season. Woodstock has not had an easy non-region schedule. They young Wolverines are averaging 7.4 points per game while allowing 40.4 points per game. It’s evident the Wolverines are looking to find their stride this season. Look for Woodstock to continue to work to establish the run this week.

The Cherokee Warriors are also looking to reverse their fortunes as they are in the midst of a 3-game skid. Cherokee will looking to get their offense clicking after they have been held to no more than 14 points in each of their last three games. Quarterback A.J. Swann has thrown for 858 yards and 10-TDs. Caleb Richardson has been a welcome addition to the receiving corps, leading the team with 12 receptions for 224 yards and 3-TDs. Tyler Goddard leads the team in total tackles with 73. As a team the Warriors are allowing 20.6 points per game. 

Both teams would like to get off to a fast start in the region and a win this week will go a long way. Cherokee is a little deeper and a little more talented this season. We believe the Warriors will get the run game going this week. Cherokee by four touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Roswell Hornets will look to bounce back after they took one on the chin last week against the Walton Raiders. Going into last week’s game, quarterback Robbie Roper was leading Class 7-A in passing yards, but in injury early an the game sidelined him for most of the contest. If Roper can’t go this week, expect them to turn to sophomore K.J. Smith. Whoever takes the snaps this week will look to get the ball to four talented receivers, Ethan Nation (21 receptions, 350 yards, 4-TDs), Shaun Spence (20 receptions, 362 yards, 3-TDs), Ethan Crite (14 receptions, 335 yards, 5-TDs) and tight end Zeke Moore (12 receptions, 179 yards, 3-TDs). Roswell’s defense is allowing 20.4 points per game. 

The Etowah Eagles are looking to continue improvement coming off the bye week. The Eagles were shut out in their last two outings, so Coach Kemper will be looking to dial in the right combination to get points on the board this week. All eyes will be on the defense as they look to slow down Roswell’s air raid offense. The defense have allowed 30 points per game this season, but they’ve faced a few extremely potent offenses. Look for the offense to try and get Elijah Washington going on the ground to keep Roswell’s offense on the sidelines.

Roswell is a dangerous team even if Roper can’t go. Etowah will need to force a turnover or two and perhaps get a special teams score to keep it close this week. We believe it’s possible but not probably. We like the Hornets by four touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The River Ridge Knights might be a little off their torrid offensive pace from a year ago, but their record is still unblemished through two games. The Knights are about as balanced as you can get on offense, averaging 161.3 yards through the air and 163.5 yards per game on the ground. Carson Lathem has thrown for 606 yards and 6-TDs. While Amhere Morrison has rushed for 486 yards and 6-TDs. Jackson Head continues to pace the receivers with 16 receptions for 248 yards. Perhaps the biggest improvement for River Ridge has been on defense as they are allowing 11 points per game through four games. That’s nine points better than last year’s defense through the same four game stretch. 

The Riverwood Raiders got off to a fast start this season, winning their first four games before getting derailed last week at Johns Creek. Last year, as region play began, the Raiders offense seemed to bog down a bit. On the season, they are averaging 34.6 points per game, while scoring just below that in two region games, (32 ppg). The Raiders will lean on senior quarterback Avery Smith. He has a couple of speedy receivers in Levi Linowes and Tim Dorce that can certainly challenge the River Ridge secondary; so we will see if Smith has time in the pocket to take advantage of some mismatches. 

Don’t expect Riverwood to be intimidated by River Ridge’s potent offense. They gave the Knights a scare last season, and we expect this game to be just as competitive. We believe the home field advantage is the difference maker this week. Knights by 3. 

The Skinny

The Creekview Grizzlies host neighborhood rival Sequoyah this week. The Grizzlies have owned the series and look to run their streak to four straight wins. Creekview will look to get back on track this week on offense as they were shut out for the first time since 2017. Expect the Grizzlies to get running back Tyler Stevens involved early and often. Stevens leads the team with 186 yards and 6-TDs and has also caught 14 passes for 128 yards and 2-TDs. Tristan Summers leads the team in receiving with 18 catches for 199 yards and 1-TD. Creekview’s hallmark has been their defense. They are allowing 7 points per game. 

The Sequoyah Chiefs will also be looking to bounce back from their loss their last time out. The Chiefs area averaging 296.8 yards per game on the ground and have had 12 different players carry the ball this season. Jackson Hancock (276 yards, 2-TDs), Peyton Lucas (238 yards, 1-TD), and Matthew Traynor (233 yards, 7-TDs) lead the way on the ground. The Chiefs have been without Jack Piskorz over the last two games and it remains to be seen if he will be available after the bye week. The Chiefs defense is allowing 22.5 points per game, but the secondary has intercepted 7 passes on the season. 

Creekview has dominated this rivalry since its inception and have not lost to Sequoyah since 2017. Coincidentally, that was also the last time the Grizzlies lost back to back home games, and as we mentioned earlier, it was the last time the Grizzlies were shut out. If Sequoyah takes care of the ball, they have a pretty good chance…Give is the Chiefs by 2. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 7 – Part II

Posted on September 29, 2021 by admin

Week-7 marks the beginning of the second half of the GHSA regular season. It also ushers in region play for many teams around the state. There are several key matchups this week that will go a long way in determining playoff seeding. This is Part II of our Eight Greats Around the State Georgia High School Football Preview. Join us as we preview a few of the more intriguing matchups across the state of Georgia this weekend.

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 Stephens County Indians are off to their first 5-0 start since 2007 when they went undefeated and made a run to the second round of the state tournament. The Indians are averaging 31.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.8 points per game. Quarterback Ben Stowe has thrown for 960 yards and 8-TDs. Stowe has also rushed for 182 yards and 5-TDs. Cam’ron Lacy is the team’s leading receiver with 16 receptions for 524 yards and 6-TDs. Stephens County has forced 13 turnovers this season and are led by Bryson Trimier and his 69 total tackles on the season.

The Monroe Area Purple Hurricanes are 5-0 for the first time in three years. They’ve shut out two of their opponents this season and are allowing 4.25 points per game. Last week, Monroe Area rolled up 639 yards if total offense. The Canes are a run heavy team, but we’d say quarterback Salatian Straughter is more of a dual threat quarterback as he’s thrown for 544 yards and 7-TDs while rushing for 596 yards and 6-TDs. Alan Jones leads the team in rushing with 722 yards and 5-TDs. 

This is a critical game in what looks like one of the toughest regions in Class 3-A with four teams currently sitting at 5-0. While the winner of this game won’t guaranty a spot in the post season, they would position themselves to host a home playoff game. Stephens County has rebounded and looks to be back, but we like Monroe Area even on the road. Canes by 5. 

The Skinny

The Carrollton Trojans will look to bounce back after falling to Rome on the road last week. They will be in the friendly confines of Grisham Stadium on Friday as South Paulding comes calling. Quarterback M.J. Morris has thrown for 1,363 yards and 18-TDs with only one interception. Terrell Carmicheal (14 receptions, 433 yards, 6-TDs) and Takare Lipscomb (18 receptions, 398 yards, 4-TDs) help lead the way on offense. The Trojans are averaging 44.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.6

The South Paulding Spartans are winners of three straight games. They are averaging 39.6 points per game. Quarterback Kasen Weisman has thrown for 1,134 yards and 9-TDs while running back Jamarion Wilcox has rushed for 579 yards and 10-TDs. The Spartans are averaging 39.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 35.8 points per game. 

This is a must win game for Carrollton if they want to host a first round playoff game while South Paulding could really set themselves up for a run at a region title with a win. If Carrollton has a hangover, expect for South Paulding to ready to pounce. We believe Carrollton bounces back. Trojans by 7.

The Skinny

The Westlake Lions begin their quest for their eighth consecutive region title this Friday night. The Lions only blemish is a 7-point defeat to Creekside. Robert Johnson has thrown for 834 yards and 6-TDs while running back Jai’Den Thomas has rushed for 456 yards and 5-TDs. Cayden Lee is tops on the team in receiving with 20 catches for 325 yards and 2-TDs. Gannon Weathersby leads the defense in tackles and in sacks. As a team the, Lions are allowing 15.4 points per game and have held their last two opponents to just six points each. 

The Langston Hughes Panthers have won four straight games with their only loss being a one point defeat to Class 7-A Newton. The Panthers defense has been pretty stout allowing 5.4 points per game with two shutouts on the season. They’ve forced nine turnovers and sacked opposing quarterbacks seven times. Linebacker Michael Watson leads the team in total tackles. Meanwhile, the offense is averaging 27.8 points per game behind the strength of sophomore quarterback Prentiss Noland (660 yards, 9-TDs) and running back Antonio Martin Jr, (307 yards, 2-TDs). 

While this is the first region game for both teams, we believe this game will decide the regions champion. Not that there is any need for additional hype to this game, but best believe the Panthers will be geared up to face their former teammate, Gannon Weathersby, who made the move to Westlake in the offseason. We like the Lions to crack the code of the Langston Hughes defense this week. Westlake by 4. 

The Skinny

After having their first two games canceled this season, the Washington County Golden Hawks have won three straight and look to stop a two game skid against region rival Northeast Macon. The Golden Hawks are averaging a healthy 37 points per game while the defense is allowing 22.3 points per game. Expect for the War Hawks to do most of their damage on the ground on the legs of Dontavius “D.J.” Braswell and Tylik Gilmore. All of the teams that Washington County has defeated have winning records to this point in the season. 

The Northeast Macon Raiders are looking to win their first region title since 2009. The Raiders are averaging 27.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 11 points per game. Expect for Northeast to favor the ground game this week on the strength of Tyler Terry (389 yards, 2-TDs) and Kalik Evans (361 yards, 7-TDs). But the Raiders aren’t one-dimensional; quarterback Travion Solomon has thrown for 549 yards and 2-TDs. Omarion Ottiman leads Northeast with 16 receptions for 266 yards and 1-TD. DB D’Icey Hopkins leads the Raiders in tackles and in sacks. Expect him to wreak havoc all over the field on Friday night.

The War Hawks seem to be improving week in and week out and the offensive output makes us believe they can break their two game skid against Northeast. Something tells us  that they War Hawks will hold serve at home this week. We like Washington County by 4. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 7 – Part I

Posted on September 29, 2021 by admin

Week-7 marks the beginning of the second half of the GHSA regular season. It also ushers in region play for many teams around the state. There are several key matchups this week that will go a long way in determining playoff seeding. This is Part I of our Eight Greats Around the State Georgia High School Football Preview. Join us as we preview a few of the more intriguing matchups across the state of Georgia this weekend.

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 Pierce County Bears come into this week winners of four straight games and have recorded three shutouts. The Bears are averaging 25.2 points per game while the stingy defense has allowed 6.6 points per game. Pierce will look to continue to establish their ground game as they are averaging 195.4 yards per game on the ground while averaging just 44.2 yards per game through the air. Expect the Bears to turn to Danarius Johnson, Donelius Johnson and Dayton Baker to continue to lead the ground game. We mentioned the stingy defense earlier. They’ve forced 9 turnovers and sacked opposing quarterbacks 21 times this season. Knox Bennett leads the team with 5 sacks. 

The Rabun County Wildcats will make the five and a half our trek down to Blackshear on Friday for the matchup between two of the top teams in Class 2-A and 3-A. The Wildcats are also winners of four consecutive games. They have been busy beating three out of state teams over the past three weeks. The Wildcats are averaging 50.4 points per game, (despite being held to 13 points against Jefferson in Week-1) Their defense is allowing a respectable 14.2 points per game. Quarterback Gunner Stockton leads the Wildcats in passing (1,628 yards, 22-TDs) and rushing (324 yards, 5-TDs). Top receivers for the Wildcats include Jaden Gibson (24 receptions, 668 yards, 6-TDs), Ethan Clarke (18 receptions, 360 yards, 4-TDs) and Baxley O’brien (13 receptions, 189 yards, 4-TDs).

As stout as Pierce County’s defense has been, they haven’t faced a quarterback like Gunner Stockton yet this season. The long road trip may cause the Wildcats to get off to a slow start, but we think Stockton will shake that off and get a big win on the road. Wildcats by 14.

The Skinny

The Burke County Bears are in the midst of a string of seven consecutive games to close out the season. The Bears opened region play last week with a big win. This week the will host non region foe Benedictine. Most of Burke’s offense has come by way of the ground game, averaging 285 yards per game. Tiger Williams (336 yards, 5-TDs), Charlie Dorsey (202 yards, 2-TDs) and quarterback Marshall Flowers (175 yards, 4-TDs) lead the team in rushing. Flowers has also thrown for 294 yards and 1-TD. The Bears are allowing 20.3 points per game on the season. As an interesting side note, non of the Bears opponents have winning records to this point in the season.

The Benedictine Cadets got a huge win last week as they out-dueled Ware County. Holden Geriner threw for 440 yards and 3-TDs. Geriner has now gone of the 1,000 yard passing mark with 1,212 yards and 10-TDs. Justin Thomas is on pace for a 1,000 yard season with 505 yards and 6-TDs through five games while Za’Quan Bryan has caught 39 passes for 579 yards and 6-TDs. The Cadets defense has forced eight turnovers, including three interceptions by Holden Sapp. 

After a big win last week, can the Cadets avoid a letdown as they go on the road? We believe that Geriner will be too tough for Burke County to tame this week. Benedictine by 13.

The Skinny

Don’t be fooled by Eagle’s Landing Christian’s record. The Chargers have loaded their schedule with top competition in Class 5A and Class 3A. E.L.C.A. is averaging 182 yards through the air and 147.5 yards on the ground. Quarterback Charlie Gilliam has thrown for 728 yards and 3-TDs. Junior receiver Jacque Holley has caught 14 passes for 273 yards and 1-TD while sophomore Brandon Hood has 392 yards and 6-TDs. The Chargers are averaging 21 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.7 points per game.

The Trinity Christian Lions are on a torrid offensive pace this season. They are averaging 55.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 8.8 points per game. The Lions have not scored any less than 51 points in a game through their five game run. They are averaging 275 yards through the air and 151 yards per game on the ground. The Lions have five receivers with 14 or more receptions this season; meaning quarterback David Dallas has plenty of options. Dallas has thrown for 1,233 yards and 18-TDs. He’s completing 78% of his passes.The passing game is complemented  by Dominick Cosper whose rushed for 491 yards and 11-TDs. 

This is a heavyweight matchup between two Class-A Private teams that could meet up in late November or early December in the playoffs. E.L.C.A. has been battle tested, but Trinity has a few more weapons on offense. We don’t believe Trinity will score 50 this week, but we like them by 9.

The Skinny

Calvary Day is off to their third 5-0 start in four years. The Cavaliers have been getting it done both offensively, (averaging 32.3 points per game), and defensively, (allowing 12.6 points per game.) Quarterback Jake Merklinger has passed for 1,167 yards and 8-TDs. He’s completing 73% of his passes this season. Freshman Donovan Johnson is the team’s leading rusher with 636 yards and 5-TDs, averaging 7.6 yards per carry. Sophomore Michael Smith leads the team in receiving with 16 receptions for 311 yards. Linebacker A.J. Butts leads the Cavaliers in tackles. Calvary’s secondary has already recorded 8 interceptions on the season. 

The Stratford Academy Eagles are also off to a hot start as they are 4-0 for the second time in as many seasons. It could be argued that the Eagles schedule has not been as tough as Calvary’’s but the Eagle’s hav won most of their games handily. They are averring 39.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 12 points per game. Expect for the Eagles to utilize the Wing-T to chew up yards and the ground and chew up time on the clock. 

Stratford’s offense can make this game interesting. If it’s low scoring , we like their chances. But we believe Mercklinger will get things going through the air. Calvary Day by 11.

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TFR GHSA Week 6 High School Football Poll

Posted on September 26, 2021 by admin

Just when we thought we had a good idea about the balance of power in each classification, we get a wake up call on Friday night. This past weekend in high school football was no different. Our Top-10 Georgia High School Football Poll reflects some of those results this week.

The Brookwood Broncos crack our Top-10 for the first time this season after their impressive win at Marietta on the road. Grayson dropped a couple of spots after their loss to Mill Creek. Meanwhile, Collins Hill seems to be the only sure thing this season as the Eagles remain atop Class 7A after recording their third straight shutout. Class 6A was turned upside down with losses by Lee County and Carrollton. The Buford Wolves are back at No. 1 while Carrollton falls to No. 10 and Rome is back in this week at No. 8.

Class 5A also saw their top team, the Ware County Gators, fall to Class 4A Benedictine. That paved the way for Warner Robins to claim the top spot as they beat Lee County, who was at the time the No. 1 team in Class 6A. Meanwhile in Class 4A, Flowery Branch and Cedartown fell a couple of spots to No. 7 and No 8. respectively after their losses last week.

Class 3A remained unchanged as all of the Top-10 teams that played won their matchups this week. Over in Class 2A, Rabun County and Callaway flip-flop again at the top spot. Callaway fell to Class 4A Thomas County Central, that drops them one spot to No. 2 this week. The South Atlanta Hornets makes their first appearance in the top-10 this season as they moved to 3-1 after their win over Pace Academy on Friday.

In Class A-Public, things remained relatively unchanged this week. Of note, the Charlton County Indians are in the Top-10 for the first time this season as they run their record to 5-0 after an overtime win over rival Clinch County. Class A-Private also got a bit of a shakeup as Athens Academy is back in the Top-10 after a 5 week hiatus while Tattnall Square cracks into the poll after a big win over previously ranked Aquinas.

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 6 – Part II

Posted on September 22, 2021 by admin

As we mentioned in Part I, this week marks the official midway point of the season for high school football in Georgia. While region play has started to get under way some teams are still in the non-region schedule, which sets up some intriguing matchups. Today, we take a look at Eight Greats Around the State in Georgia High school Football this week. Part II features matchups between Rome and Carrollton, Walton and Roswell, Warner Robins and Lee County, and Calhoun and 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 Rome Wolves find themselves in a relatively unusual situation as they are 0-1 to start region play. After winning their first two games of the season, Rome was given up 34 points in consecutive weeks to fall to 2-2 on the year. Statistically, the Wolves are averaging 20.5 points per game and allowing 20.5 points per game. Certainly the points per game they are allowing is skewed because of Collins Hill, but I doubt many people believed they’d surrender that many points to South Paulding last week. There is a plethora of talent on both sides of the ball for the Wolves, but can they get Martel Height involved on offense this week?

The Carrollton Trojans have a chance to really separate themselves from the pack with a victory over Rome. Early in the season, the Trojans appear to be clicking on all cylinders. The offense is averaging 48.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.7. Quarterback M.J. Morris is completing 73.6% of his passes for 1,057 yards and 17-TDs with just one interception in 72 pass attempts. Top receivers for the Trojans include Takere Lipscomb (15 receptions, 331 yards, 4-TDs), Terrell Carmichael (10 receptions, 341 yards, 5-TDs) and Ace Williamson (13 receptions, 183 yards, 4-TDs)

In their prior seven meetings between the two schools, Rome wins when they score 45 points or more in the game. It hasn’t been the same story for Carrollton, but if they can hold Rome to under three touchdowns, we like their chances. Expect a bounce back performance by the Wolves, but we like the Trojans by 10 on the road. 

The Skinny

The Walton Raiders are back in action after the bye week. The last time out, the Raiders were upset by West Forsyth. While we didn’t expect that result, this Walton team is still a formidable and dangerous opponent. The Raiders sport two talented quarterbacks in Zak Rozsman and Jeremy Hecklinski. They are surrounded by playmakers like Sutton Smith and Mustafa Hefner. Walton is averaging 34.3 points per game while their defense is allowing 28.6 points per game. 

The Roswell Hornets will come calling on Friday night and they’ll bring with them an offense that is averaging 42.7 points per game.  The Hornets are led by senior quarterback Robbie Roper who has thrown for 1,425 yards and 19-TDs and is completing 73.5% of his passes. (Roper leads Class 7A in passing yards.) Ethan Nation, Shaun Spence and Ethan Crite lead the Hornets in receiving; combining for 41 receptions for 885 yards and 12-TDs. Roswell’s defense is allowing 17.7 points per game. Hill Plunkett sports a team leading 3 interceptions on the young season. 

We expect a bounce back game from Walton and we won’t be surprised if this game is high scoring in the low 40s for both teams. Is Roswell for real this season? We think so. Hornets by a slim 2 point margin on the road. 

The Skinny

The Warner Robins Demons have not had any problems putting points on the board this season. They enter this matchup averaging 49 points per game. Offensively, they are led by running back Malcolm Brown who has rushed for 549 yards and 9-TDs. Quarterback Christon Lane has also stepped in nicely this season and through four games has thrown for 762 yards and 10-TDs. The Demons defense is allowing 17.5 points per game. They’ve forced eight turnovers and have sacked opposing quarterbacks 9 times on the year. 

The Lee County Trojans have also not had any issues scoring points this season, as they are averaging 47.5 points per game. Three times this season, the Trojans have scored more than 60 points. They have a potent 1-2 punch at running back with Julis McLellan and freshman Ousmane Kromah. Lee County’s defense has been recorded two shutouts on the season and is allowing 11.4 points per game. 

While both of these offenses have been pretty stellar, we believe it will be the defense’s time to shine. We don’t expect either team will get to their scoring average this week. Lee County might be a little deeper and that should be the difference this week, even on the road. Trojans by 6.

The Skinny

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets went on the road and continued their winning ways down in Cherokee County last week. It was back to back weeks that the Jackets have crossed the 50 point threshold. In his last two games, quarterback Christian Lewis is now 21 for 21 with 438 yards and 8-TDs. Expect for Cole Speer, Quin Smith, Peyton Law and Gage Leonard to get involved early and often for the Calhoun offense. Calhoun is averaging 43.5 points per game on offense this season while the defense is allowing 24 points per game. 

The Cedartown Bulldogs are 3-0 for the first time since 2017. The Bulldogs are certainly run-oriented, averaging 244.7 yards per game on the ground in the young season. They sport a 28 point per game average offensively, but have really lit up the scoreboard in their last two outings. Running backs C.J. Washington, Harlem Diamond and Patrick Gardner lead a stable of backs. Thirteen Cederatown offensive players have logged at least one carry this season. Meanwhile, the Cedartown defense his been very good this season. They are allowing 3.3 points per game. Demarieo Sims leads the defense with five sacks. Overall, Cedartown has sacked opposing quarterbacks 12 times and have intercepted 5 passes in the secondary. 

This is a classic battle of offense versus defense as these old rivals square off. Shockingly enough, Cedartown has been one of those teams that has had Calhoun’s number in the past. We don’t expect the Jackets to put up huge numbers this week, but we like Calhoun to hold serve at home. Jackets by 10.

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews – Week 6 – Part I

Posted on September 22, 2021 by admin

Believe it or not, we are halfway through the regular season of high school football here in Georgia. While region play has started to get under way some teams are still in the non-region schedule, which sets up some intriguing matchups. Today, we take a look at Eight Greats Around the State in Georgia High school Football this week. Part I features matchups between Benedictine and Ware County, Collins Hill and East Coweta, Pierce County and Fitzgerald, and Irwin County and 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 Benedictine Cadets will be back at home and will be looking for their third straight victory. In their two victories on the season they are averaging 49.5 points per game while allowing 12 points per game. Overall the Cadets are averaging 37.2 points per game while allowing 24.7 points per game. Quarterback Holden Geriner has thrown for 764 yards and 7-TDs through four games. The Cadets have a balanced attack, averaging 203.3 yards per game through the air and 228.3 yards on the ground. 

The Ware County Gators will also bring a balanced attack into Savannah this week as they average 270 yards through the air while gaining 248.3 per game on the ground. Quarterback Thomas Castellanos is completing 65.7% of his passes for 1,062 yards and 10-TDs, while Cartevious Norton leads the team on the ground with 535 yards and 4-TDs.  As a team, the Gators are averaging 46.7 points per game while allowing 17.5 points per game this season.

In their 63 years of existence, the Ware County Gators have never lost a game when scoring more than 40 points. Holden Geriner and the Cadets will present a great test, especially playing at home, but we expect for Ware to cross the 40 point threshold again this week. Ware by 8.

The Skinny

The Collins Hill Eagles have one of the most electric players in Georgia this season, but their defense has been pretty good as well. Since yielding 22 points to Greenville Christian, MS. They have shut out their last two opponents and on the season are averaging 37.2 points per game. Quarterback Sam Horn leads the way with 1,023 yards and 10-TDs and is completing 69.7% of his passes. Travis Hunter has caught 32 passes for 553 yards and 4-TDs. The aforementioned defense has been downright menacing, recorded 32 sacks and 46 QB hurries while forcing 8 turnovers.

The East Coweta Indians may have been flying under the radar for some this season. The Indians are winners of their last 11 regular season games, including a 24-17 overtime win over Collins Hill last season. Through five games, the Indians are averaging 37 points per game while allowing just 7.4, including three shutouts. East Coweta is led by quarterback Daniel Shoch (650 yards, 6-TDs) ,while backs Trey Bowles (305 yards, 5-TDs)  and D.J. Reid (230 yards, 5-TDs) help pace the offense. Kaleb Harris and the Indians secondary has intercepted 9 passes already this season. 

While East Coweta has been pretty good this season, we don’t believe they’ve faced an offense as potent as Collins Hill. We like the Eagles to avenge last season’s loss. Collins Hill by 13.

The Skinny

The defending Class 3A champion Pierce County Bears are winners of their last three games. Their only loss thus far is to Class 6A Brunswick by a touchdown. Pierce County is run heavy on offense, churning out around 200 yards per game this season. Quarterback Dayton Baker and running backs Donelius Johnson and Danarius Johnson have combined for 529 rushing yards and 8-TDs. 8 backs have carried the ball this season for the Bears. On defense, Pierce County has recorded 9 turnovers and 20 sacks and is allowing 8.2 points per game. 

The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes have won 13 consecutive regular season games. The Canes are averaging 24 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 11.5 points per game. Denorris Goodwin has taken over at quarterback for Fitzgerald but expect them to be a run first team. Coach Pruitt has used a variety of creative formations to keep opposing defenses off balance. 

This game might be one of the shortest games around the state with two predominate run offenses. While Fitzgerald has been battle tested, we like Pierce County at home in Blackshear. Bears by 5.

The Skinny

The Irwin County Indians come into this game with a .500 record but are still one of the top teams in Class A-Public. The Indians are averaging 36 points per game and allowing 15 points per game. There two losses are by a combined 5 points to Class 7A Tift County and 2A Fitzgerald. The Indians do most of their damage on the ground on offense. Marcus Edwards, Shane Marshall, Damarcus Lundy, and Matthew Payne have been the primary backs for Irwin County. 

The Brooks County Trojans have won their last two games by wide margins. The Trojans are averaging 39.6 points per game While allowing 20.6 points per game. Omari Arnold leads the team in rushing with 311 yards and 4-TDs. But the Trojans aren’t just a one-trick pony. Quarterback Jamal Sanders has thrown for 649 yards and 9-TDs with WIllie Brown as his primary target. He’s hauled in 13 receptions for 303 yards and 2-TDs. 

While this is just the region opener for both teams, the winner would likely have an inside track to the Region-2 crown. We believe the scoreboard operator will by busy in Ocilla on Friday night. We like Irwin’s bevy of backs to be the difference on Friday. Irwin County by 4.  

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