GHSA A-Private Semifinal Preview

Posted on December 16, 2020 by admin

We have reached the end of our semifinal previews as we take a look at the GHSA Class A-Private matchups. The preview features games between Wesleyan – Prince Avenue Christian and Calvary Day – Trinity Christian.

Last week we were absolutely awful with our pics, going 1-3. Congratulations to the Wesleyan Wolves, Calvary Day Cavaliers and Trinity Christian Lions on their victories! 

If we had to pick a game in this classification to attend this week, it would be the Wesleyan-Prince Avenue Christian rematch

As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Wesleyan Wolves won their seventh straight game and are in the semifinals for the second straight season and the fourth time in school history. Last week, Ryan Rose was extremely efficient completing 14 of 17 passes for 165 yards and two TDs, while Griffin Caldwell rushed for 126 yards and a touchdown as Wesleyan won on the road. Rose has now thrown for 2,074 yards and 13-TDs while Caldwell has rushed for 1,387 yards and 17-TDs. The Wolves have been relatively balanced this season averaging just over 160 yards per game through the air and 153 yards per game on the ground. In their three playoff games, Wesleyan is averaging 25 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.6.

The Prince Avenue Christian Wolverines finally got over the hump on Eagle’s Landing Christian last week as they advances to the semifinals for the fifth time in six years and the seventh time in school history. Quarterback Brock Vandagriff threw for 296 yards and 1-TD and rushed for two more to help lead the Wolverines last week. Vandagriff has thrown for 3,638 yards and 41-TDs this season and is completing 70.8% of his passes while Landon Owens has now rushed for 1,013 yards and 14-TDs. Both Logan Johnson and Zax Dyer are over 1,000 receiving yards for the Wolverines. They’ve combined for 116 receptions and 2,193 yards and 27-TDs. In their three playoff games, the Wolverines are averaging 47.6 points per game while allowing 11.3. These two teams met earlier this season with Prince Avenue winning by 26. We think the rematch will be closer, but still like Vandagriff and the Wolverines by 17.

The Skinny

The Trinity Christian Lions have advanced to the semifinals in only their third year of GHSA competition. The Lions did make it to the GISA 1-AAA Finals back in 2017. Trinity Christian got three rushing touchdowns from Tyson Wall and three passing touchdowns from David Dallas to lead the way last week. They’ve also won seven straight games entering this week. In their three playoff games, Trinity Christian is averaging 48.6 points per game while allowing 13.3 points. 

The Calvary Day Cavaliers are in the semifinals for the first time since 2014 and the fourth time in school history. Last week, freshman quarterback Jake Merklinger threw for 208 yards and 2-TDs while Greg Daniel rushed for 223 yards and 1-TD to help power the Cavaliers to victory. On the year, Mercklinger has thrown for 1,992 yards and 18-TDs while Daniel has rushed for 1,664 yards and 14-TDs. In their two playoff games, Calvary Day is averaging 20 points per game while allowing 10.5. The Cavaliers will need another solid outing from Mercklinger and Daniel on the road, but even then, we suspect Trinity Christian will be tough again at home. We like the Lions by 11.

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GHSA 2A Semifinal Preview

Posted on December 15, 2020 by admin

We now turn our attention to the Class 2A GHSA semifinals. This preview features games between Callaway – Rabun County and a rematch between Fitzgerald – Jefferson County 

Last week in our picks, we went 3-1 in Class 2A.  It was the Callaway Cavaliers getting a win last week whom we underestimated. Congratulations to the Cavs!

If we had to pick a 2A game to attend, it would be the Fitzgerald – Jefferson County rematch.

As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Callaway Cavaliers advanced to the semifinals for the fourth time in five years and for the fifth time overall. The Cavs have won five straight, (including their forfeit win in week 1), and might be playing their best at the right time. We mentioned them last week, but Demetrius Coleman and Charlie Dixon helped power the Cavs offense this season. In their two playoff games, Callaway is averaging 25 points per game while allowing an averaging of 15.

The Cavs will host the Rabun County Wildcats who are in the semifinals for the first times since 2017 and only the second time in school history. Rabun County has now won ten straight games. Quarterback Gunner Stockton has thrown for 3,021 yards and 44-TDs and rushed for 1,474 yards and 25-TDs. Sophomore Lang Windham is second on the team in rushing with 1,271 yards and 12-TDs while Adriel Clark has caught 71 passes for 1,482 yards and 27-TDs. Meanwhile, Will Turpin, Hoff Windham and Corey Keller lead the defense in total tackles. In their three playoff games, the Wildcats are averaging 32.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.3. It should be fun to watch Callaway corner Jalin Shephard matchup with Rabun receiver Adriel Clark. We believe there will be too much Gunner Stockton, but we expect it to be another thriller with the Wildcats playing on the road. We like Rabun County by 2.

The Skinny

The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes advanced to the semifinals for the second time in three years and for the fourteenth time in school history. Fitzgerald went on a long road trip to Blue Ridge last week and took care of business in a big way. Mario Clark has a huge night as he accounted for four touchdowns in the victory last week. In three playoff games, Fitzgerald is averaging 47 points per game while allowing 14.6.

The Jefferson County Warriors advanced to the semifinals for the first time since 2015 and only the second time in school history. We mentioned last week that the Warriors are run heavy, to the tune of just under 250 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Aquavious Hunter leads the team with 1,064 rushing yards and 17-TDs. Meanwhile Izaiah Gaines, Ja’quine Gilmore and Kobe Heggs have combined for 1,398 yards and 19-TDs. Linebacker Nick Jordan leads the team in total tackles, sacks and tackles for loss. In their three playoff games, Jefferson County is averaging 37 points per game while allowing 20.3. Fitzgerald got the best of Jefferson County back in September by a slim margin. We expect the Warriors to be right in this game until the end, but we really like Fitzgerald at home. Canes by 7.

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GHSA 3A Semifinal Preview

Posted on December 15, 2020 by admin

Our Class 3A semifinal previews are up next. . This preview features games between Greater Atlanta Christian – Oconee County and Pierce County – Crisp County.

Last week in our picks, we went 2-2 in Class 3A. The Oconee County Warriors and Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans were winners that we underestimated in the quarterfinals. 

If we had to pick a 3A game to attend, it would be Pierce County vs. Cr County.

Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. 

As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. 

spAll helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans advanced to the semifinals for the seventh time in nine years. Quarterback Deymon Fleming has thrown for 1,750 yards and 21-TDs while also rushing for 424 yards and 6-TDs. Brooks Miller and Will Hardy have combined for 84 receptions, 1,095 yards and 16-TDs. Meanwhile, Aidan Bailey and Joseph Rose lead the Spartans in total tackles. In their three playoff games, the Spartans are averaging 33.6 points per game while allowing 6.6 points. 

The Oconee County Warriors are in the semifinals for the second straight season and for the third time in school history. Oconee County scored 21 unanswered points to beat Peach County last week. The Warriors have been steady all season on offense behind an offense line anchored by Carson Stocklinski and Jaquette Lester. Meanwhile, players like Liam Lewis and West and Whit Weeks have led the defense all season. In their three playoff games, Oconee County is averaging 31.3 points per game while allowing 9 per game. We expect the Warriors to go on the road and take care of business this week; Oconee County by 10.

The Skinny

The Pierce County Bears advanced to the semifinals for the second time in three seasons. Last week, quarterback Jermaine Brewton helped power the Bears to victory. Pierce County has won seven straight games and in those seven games only one has been decided by less than 33 points. In three playoff games, the Bears are averaging 50.6 points per game while allowing 10.6 points per game. 

The Crisp County Cougars are back in the semifinals for the second straight year and for the fifth time in school history. Crisp has used their ground game and a stingy defense to help power them this season. Marquise Palmer, A.J. Lofton and Ahmad Brown have combined to rush for 2018 yards and 18-TDs to help lead the Cougars. Meanwhile, Chris Paul Jr., Nick Mercer and Preston Lavant lead the team in total tackles. Mercer also has recorded a team high 14 sacks and J’kobe Harris’ 5 interception leads a team that has picked off 16 passes total. In their three playoff games, Crisp County is averaging 29 points per game while the defense is allowing 4.3. Crisp County has also not allowed a team to score over 14 points in a game. They’ll be hard pressed to keep that streak alive on the road this week, but we like the Cougars to prevail behind the strength of their defense; Crisp County by 6.

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GHSA 5A Semifinal Preview

Posted on December 14, 2020 by admin

We continue our GHSA Semifinal previews with Class 5A. This preview features games between Cartersville – Coffee and Warner Robins – Jones County.  

Last week in our picks, we went 1-3 in Class 5A.  Ouch! Congratulations to Warner Robins, Coffee and Cartersville for advancing. We obviously did not see that coming! 

While both of these games should be great contests, if we had to pick a 5A game to attend, it would be Cartersville vs Coffee. 

Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes went on the road and did what only one other team has managed to do this season, and that is beat Ware County. For Cartersville, it is their second semifinals appearance in three years and their 12th overall. Carlos Del Rio Wilson has thrown for over 1,150 yards and 11-TDs after transferring into Cartersville mid-season. Quante’ Jennings went over the century mark last week with a 109 yards rushing. That’s the third time he’s done that and has now rushed for 900 yards and 22-TDs. Cartersville has won seven consecutive games and in three playoff games are averaging 40.3 points per game while allowing 18.6. 

The Coffee Trojans went on the road last week and defeated Calhoun for their fifth straight win and advance to the semifinals for the second time since 2017 and only the third time in school history. Entering last week’s game, quarterback A.J. Wilkerson had thrown for 1,448 yards and 13-TDs. The Trojans were able to get a defensive score and touchdown runs from Trejan Landers and Maurice Turner to help advance. Coffee is very balanced on offense averaging just over 170 yards passing and 170 yards rushing per game this season.  In their three playoff games, the Trojans are averaging 27.3 points per game while allowing 11 points per game. Two long road trips might be tough on the Trojans. We like Cartersville at home by a touchdown.

The Skinny

The Warner Robins Demons advanced to the semifinals for the fourth straight season and for the seventeenth time in school history. It was the seventh straight win for Warner Robins, whose only loss came to Class 6-A semifinalist Lee County. The Demons are led by quarterback Jalen Addie, who has thrown for 1,634 yards and 15-TDs and rushed for 833 and 10-TDs. Meanwhile, Jahlen Rutherford and Malcolm Brown have now combined for 1,886 yards and 16-TDs. Demarcious Robinson, Ahmad Walker and Vic Burley have continued to be a problem for opposing offenses all season. In their three playoff games Warner Robins is averaging 38 points per game while the defense is allowing 14 points per game. 

The Jones County Greyhounds have won ten straight games as the find themselves in the semifinals for the second straight season and only the third time in school history. The Greyhounds racked up 302 yards on the ground in last week’s victory with Andrew Carner doing most of the damage with 234 yards and 3-TDs on 30 carries. Carner has rushed for 1,612 yards on the year with 28-TDs. Meanwhile linebacker Deon Richardson has been a tackling machine with 130 total tackles and a team leading 5 sacks. The Jones County secondary has intercepted 12 passes this season and forced 20 turnovers. In their three playoff games, the Greyhounds are averaging 29.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 15 points per game. While we are unsure of the status of Vic Burley this week, we believe the Demons have enough on defense to slow down Jones County. We like Warner Robins by 10. 

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GHSA 4A Semifinal Preview

Posted on December 14, 2020 by admin

We now turn our attention to class 4-A for our semifinal previews. This preview features games between Benedictine –Jefferson and  Bainbridge – Marist. 

Last week in our picks, we went 4-0 in Class 4A.  

If we had to pick a 4A game to attend, it would be a road trip to Bainbridge to watch the Marist defense against the Bainbridge offense.  

Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Benedictine Cadets return to the semifinals for the first time since 2016 and for the sixth time in school history. Quarterback Holden Geriner has now thrown for 2,488 yards and 23-TDs while running back LeShon Brooks has now rushed for 918 yards and 9-TDs to help power the Benedictine offense. The Cadets leading receiver, Trent Broadnax also added another receiving touchdown and special teams touchdown in last week’s victory. Broadnax has now caught 61 passes for 1,004 yards and 14 receiving TDs. In their three playoff games, the Cadets are averaging 45 points per game while allowing 20.3 points per game. 

The Jefferson Dragons advanced to the semifinals for the first time since 2016 and for the fifth time in school history. The Dragons surrendered the most points all season in last week’s victory but advance to the semifinals non the less. Quarterback Malaki Starks has rushed for 1,136 yards and 20-TDs to lead the way for the Dragons. We made mention of this last week, but the Dragons only throw the ball about four times a game. In their three playoff games, Jefferson is averaging 42.6 points per game while allowing 7.3. Not many teams have been able to corral Starks, but if Benedictine can, then we really like their chances. We just believe that’s much easier said than done. Despite the long road trip to Savannah, we believe the Dragons will have just enough to get by Benedictine this week. Jefferson by 3.

The Skinny

The Bainbridge Bearcats are back in the semifinals for the second time in three years. It’s the fifth semifinals appearance in school history for the Bearcats. Quarterback Quayde Hawkins has now thrown for 1,947 yards and 24-TDs while Rashad Broadnax has rushed for 1,368 yards and 16-TDs. Meanwhile, Braxton Johnson leads the receiving corps with 49 catches for 870 yards and 12-TDs. Bainbridge has won nine straight games and in their three playoff games are averaging 35.3 points per game while allowing 3.3 points per game. 

The Marist War Eagles advanced to the semifinals for the third time in four years with a big win over Perry last week. The War Eagles are appearing in the semifinals for the 22nd time. We’ve mentioned this before, but Marist might have one of the best offensive lines in the state anchored by Steven Nahmias, Davis McKenna and Ian Erickson. The War Eagles defense has also been really special this season allowing 3.3 points per game during the regular season. In their three playoff games Marist is averaging 36.3 points per game while allowing 2.3. The long road trip down to Bainbridge may have an effect on Marist early, but we believe the Marist defense will prove to be the difference. War Eagles by 8.

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GHSA 6A Semifinal Preview

Posted on December 13, 2020 by admin

We have made it to the semifinals of the GHSA Football Playoffs. Our second preview this week features Class 6A and games between Buford – Valdosta and Lee County – Westlake

Last week in our picks, we went 3-1 in Class 6A. Valdosta got a big road win over Carrollton which was our only incorrect pick last week. Congratulations to the Cats! 

Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The move to Class 6A has not derailed the Buford Wolves. Buford advanced to the semifinals for the thirteenth time in fourteen years and for the 24th time in school history. Victor Venn and Gabe Ervin continue to lead the way on the ground for the Wolves this season. Buford has won eleven straight games and in their three playoff games are averaging 44.6 points per game while allowing 7.3 points per game. The 15 points allowed last week were the most they’ve surrendered since week 1.

The Valdosta Wildcats are back in the semifinals for the first times since 2016. It is the thirty-third time the Wildcats have appeared in the semifinals. Last week marked the second road playoff win for Valdosta and their sixth win in their last seven games. In their three playoff games, Valdosta is averaging 44 points per game while allowing 11.6. There are 34 state titles between these two programs and both teams have won over 70% of their games in school history. Additionally, both teams have combined to win well over 1,500 games. Ironically, with all of the history, these two teams have never met previously. While Valdosta has gone on the road and won in the past two weeks, we aren’t quite sure if they can contain Ervin and Venn for Buford. It won’t be a runaway, but we like the Wolves this week. Buford by 6. 

The Skinny

So much for Lee County not being able to score on the road. After only averaging a shade over 18 points in their previous three road games this season, the Trojans exploded for 49 last week on the road to advance to the semifinals for the third time in the last four years. Caleb McDowell scored five times in the win including two on special teams to help lead the Trojans to victory. It was the ninth straight victory for the Trojans. In their three playoff games, Lee County is averaging 48.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 23 points per game. The 31 points allowed last week were the most since the loss to Lowndes back in September.

The Westlake Lions will make the trip down to Leesburg on Friday as they advanced to the semifinals for the first time since 2016. In only his second season, head Coach Bobby May has guided the Lions to 11 wins for only the second time in program history. Sophomore quarterback R.J. Johnson has thrown for over 3,000 yards while Leo Blackburn has topped 1,000 yards receiving to help lead the Lions this season. Westlake has also won nine consecutive games. In their three playoff games, Westlake is averaging 41.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.6. We believe Westlake is one of the hottest teams in the state right now, but it’s very tough to pick against the Trojans at home, where they have played extremely well this season. We like Lee County, by 5 over Westlake. 

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GHSA 7A Semifinal Preview

Posted on December 13, 2020 by admin

We have made it to the semifinal round  of the GHSA Football Playoffs. Our first preview this week features games between Collins Hill – Lowndes and Norcross –Grayson.

Last week in our picks, we went 2-2 in Class 7A. Collins Hill and Norcross were the winners we did not expect to see in the round of 8. Way to go Eagles and Blue Devils! 

Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Collins Hill Eagles are in the quarterfinals for the first times since 2010 and the third time in school history. Last week, they held off Parkview to win their eleventh game for only the second time in school history. The Eagles enter this game on a seven-game win streak. Last week they got a pick 6 from Travis Hunter and a touchdown pass by Sam Horn in the victory. Horn has now thrown for over 3,000 yards this season. In three playoff games, the Eagles are averaging 26.6 points per game while allowing 9 points per game.

The Lowndes Viking advanced to the semifinals for the third consecutive season. The Vikings defeated their second straight No. 1 seed and now will return to metro Atlanta for the third week in a row. In last week’s victory, dual threat quarterback Jacurri Brown ran for 118 yards rushing while Israel Mitchell added 67 yards rushing and two-TDs. Lowndes has won four straight games entering this week and in their three playoff games are averaging 28.6 points per game while allowing 8.6 points per game. The numbers say that these two teams are evenly matched. Something tells us Lowndes will try to control this game by running more than throwing. However, the third straight trip through Atlanta might finally take its toll on the Vikings. We like Collins Hill by 2. 

The Skinny

The Norcross Blue Devils advanced to the semifinals for the first time since 2013 after downing Colquitt County last week. It’s the third semifinals appearance in school history. Quarterback Mason Kaplan has thrown for 2,204 yards and 27-TDs this year while Jahni Clarke, Kaleb Jackson and Michael Porter have combined to rush for 2,294 yards and 25-TDs. Zakye Barker and Jalen Garner lead the team in total tackles with both well over 100 on the season. The Norcross defense has forced 25 turnovers this season. In their three playoff games, Norcross is averaging. 34.6 points per game while allowing 15.6.

The Grayson Rams advanced to the semifinals for the first time since 2016 and for the sixth time in school history. Grayson recorded their third shutouts in four weeks. Jake Garcia has stepped in at quarterback and in six games has thrown for 955 yards and 10-TDs. Meanwhile, Sean Downer and Joe Tayler have stepped up to fill in for Phil Mafah and both found the endzone last Friday. Grady Bryant and Jayvian Allen lead the team in total tackles while the secondary has intercepted 16 passes on the season. Allen leads the secondary with 5 of those 16 interceptions. In their three playoff games, Grayson is averaging 35.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 2 points per game. We suspect this will be the toughest test of the playoffs for Grayson, but we believe their defense will be the difference in perhaps a surprisingly close game…Rams by 7.  

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GHSA Class A-Private Quarterfinal Preview

Posted on December 10, 2020 by admin

We have reached the end of our quarterfinal previews as we take a look at the GHSA Class A-Private matchups. The preview features games between Savannah Christian – Wesleyan, Prince Avenue Christian – Eagle’s Landing Christian, George Walton Academy – Calvary Day, and Trinity Christian – Fellowship Christian.

If we had to pick a game in this classification to attend this week, it would definitely be Prince Avenue Christian vs Eagle’s Landing Christian. This game would have made a great state title matchup. 

As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Savannah Christian Raiders have advanced to the quarterfinals for the third straight season. The Region-1 champions have won seven straight games since their only setback of the season. The Raiders are averaging 35.9 points per game while allowing 18.6. Quarterback Spencer Robicheaux has thrown for over 1,900 yards and 24-TDs while George Futch has caught 45 passed for 768 yards and 11-TDs. It’s been running back by committee for the Raiders as Robicheaux, Carter Allen, Ely Brown and Jayden Hester have combined for 2,018 rushing yards and 25-TDs. Meanwhile, Peyton Cromwell leads the defense with 139 total tackles. Savannah Christian did not have a first round playoff game but defeated Pacelli by 13 last week to get to this point. 

The Region-5 champion Wesleyan Wolves will make the long road trip down to Pooler just outside of Savannah on Friday. The Wolves have advanced to the quarterfinals for the second straight season. The Wolves have won six straight games since their back to back losses back in October. Wesleyan is led offensively by quarterback Ryan Rose who has thrown for 1,909 yards and 11-TDs while Griffin Caldwell has rushed for 1,261 yards and 16-TDs. The Wolves have received a boost with the return of receiver Cooper Blauser. He and Wyatt Hodges have combined for 79 receptions, 1,126 yards and 7-TDs. Senior J.D. Chipman leads the defense with 106 tackles while Tanner Bivins has recorded 21 tackles for loss. The Wolves are averaging 25.5 points per game while allowing 15.3. In their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 54-45. Both teams are seemingly evenly matched, but we’ll go with Savannah Christian since they don’t have a 4+ hour road trip. Raiders by a touchdown.

The Skinny

Prince Avenue Christian Wolverines have advanced to the quarterfinals for the ninth time in ten years. They are racking up some outstanding numbers this season averaging over 474 yards of offense per game. Quarterback Brock Vandagriff is the straw that stirs the drink for the offense. He’s thrown for 3,342 yards and 40-TDs while Landon Owens has rushed for 895 yards and 13-TDs. Senior receivers Logan Johnson (58 receptions 1,004 yards, 17-TDs) and Zac Dyer (47 receptions, 950 yards, 9-TDs) lead the receiving corps. Davis Ridings is tops on the team in tackles with 126 total tackles and 14 tackles for loss while Chas Scoggins has intercepted five passes in the secondary. The Wolverines have outscored their two playoff opponents 105-34 and on the season are averaging 48.9 points per game while allowing 16.

The Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Chargers are the Region 2 champions and are the five time…Yes F-I-V-E time defending state champion in Class A-Private. The Chargers have done most of their damage on the ground behind running backs Josh Rogers (835 yards, 11-TDs), Brandon Hood (634 yards, 9-TDs) and quarterback Philip Massengale (654 yards, 9-TDs). The Chargers are winners of their last seven games. They have not lost to a team in Class A-Private this season and have taken on all comers. They are averaging 29.4 points per game while allowing 12.3. In their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 72-17. ELCA has owned the series but we really feel the worm has turned and believe Prince Avenue has the upper hand this week. We like the Wolverines by two touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Calvary Day Cavaliers are in the quarterfinals for the sixth time in the last eight seasons. The Cavaliers have won three straight games, not counting their first-round forfeit victory. Freshman quarterback Jake Merklinger has thrown for over 1,600 yards and 16-TDs in the regular season, while Greg Daniel has rushed for 1,173 yards and 12-TDs in the first ten games. A.J. Butts and Troy Ford are tops on the team in total tackles. Calvary Day is averaging 24.7 points per game while allowing 19.1. 

The George Walton Academy Bulldogs find themselves in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2012. They are winners of their last three games, which including an upset of Christian Heritage last week. The Bulldogs are also led by freshman quarterback Gavin Hall. He’s passed for 1,072 yards and 9-TDs and rushed for 616 yards and 8-TDs. Jack Ellerbee is the team’s leading rusher with 883 yards and 11-TDs. Laythan Folgman and Jake Whitten have also combined for 1,004 yards and 11-TDs on the ground. George Walton Academy is averaging 30.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.1 points per game. If the Bulldogs can go to Dalton and pull an upset, we believe they can do the same in Savannah this week. We like George Walton by 6.

The Skinny

The Trinity Christian Lions are in the quarterfinals for the first the first time in their three-year run as a GHSA school. (The Lions did make it all the way to the GISA 1-AAA finals in 2017 before making the move to the GHSA.) Quarterback David Dallas has thrown for 1,559 yards and 11-TDs while Tyson Wall has rushed for 946 yards and 9-TDs. Juniors Joshua Dallas and Bryce Wilcox have combined for 72 receptions, 955 yards and 7-TDs to lead the Lions receivers. Trinity Christian has won six straight games entering this week and is averaging 29.8 points per game while allowing 13 points per game. In their two playoff games they have outscored their opponents 105-13.

Fellowship Christian is in the quarterfinals for the fourth time in five years. The Paladins are averaging the most points per game in school history (49.7) while simultaneously allowing the fewest points per game in school history (10). No one has been within 22 points of them since their week one victory of Christian Heritage. Murphy Reeves is one of the top running backs in Class-A Private with 1,715 yards and 23-TDs. Eli Hildebrandt, Lawson Haigler and Josh Cole have combined for another 1,307 yards and 19-TDs. For what it’s worth, the Paladins only throw the ball about nine times a game. That won’t be a factor, we Like Fellowship big on the road this week; call it three touchdowns. 

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GHSA Class A-Public Quarterfinal Preview

Posted on December 9, 2020 by admin

Our GHSA Class A-Public quarterfinal previews are up next. We preview Metter – Warren County, Commerce – Irwin County, Lincoln County – Clinch County and Brooks County – Washington-Wilkes

If we had to pick a game in this classification to attend this week, it would definitely be Commerce vs. Irwin County.

Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share.

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Metter Tigers advanced to the quarterfinals for the second consecutive season. The Tigers had really gone unchallenged this season until their Week-1 playoff game against Turner County. Nevertheless, the Tigers have won twelve games for the third time in program history. Metter is averaging 39.5 points per game while allowing 4.7 this season. In their two playoff games, Metter has outscored their opponents 69-27.

Metter will host the Warren County Screaming Devils who are also in the quarterfinals for the second consecutive season. Warren County enters the game on a five-game win streak. They have outscored their two playoff opponents 108-34. On the season, Warren County is averaging 32.5 points per game while allowing 11.6. The Screaming Devils will need big performances from running backs Kyree Evans and Jatavion Allen to upset Metter on the road. Warren County was able to capitalize on a few special teams miscues last week. We don’t believe Metter will make those kinds of mistakes. We like the Tigers by 17 at home. 

The Skinny

The Commerce Tigers have advanced to the quarterfinals for the fifth time in seven years. The Tigers have won nine consecutive games and, in the playoffs, have outscored their opponents 80-34. Commerce freshman running back Sammy Brown has stepped up in a big way this season for the Tigers. Expect him to be a big part of the game plan on Friday night. On the Season Commerce is averaging 36.5 points per game while allowing 15.

The Tigers will get a visit from the defending Class A -Public state champion Irwin County Indians. Irwin County has advanced to the quarterfinals for the eighth straight season. The Indians have won three straight since a late season loss to rival Clinch County. Sophomore quarterback Casey Soliday has thrown for 1,497 yards and 18-TDs while Kam Ward has done most of the damage on the ground rushing for 798 yards and 14-TDs. Irwin County has outscored their two playoff opponents 55-7 and, on the season, they are averaging 31.2 points per game while allowing 10.9. Our biggest question is whether or not the young Irwin County quarterback can handle the pressure of a road playoff game. It’s tough to pick against the defending champs, and this might be a bold prediction, but we believe that Commerce will do just enough to hold serve at home. Tigers by 5.

The Skinny

The Lincoln County Red Devils advanced to the quarterfinals for the second consecutive season. Tevin Gartrell has lead the way for the Red Devils at running back with 787 yards and 9-TDs while Caleb Willis has caught 31 passes for 430 yards and 6-TDs. Willis also leads the defense with three interceptions. As a team, the Red Devils have intercepted 13 passes this season. In their two playoff games, Lincoln County has outscored their opponents 57-19. The Red Devils are averaging 22.6 points a game and allowing 17.

Clinch County will make the trip to Lincolnton this week in their seventh quarterfinals appearances in the last eight years. Clinch has won four straight games entering this week and has outscored their opponents 37-23. Clinch County is averaging 23.7 points per game while allowing 17.9. Expect Clinch County to feed Lincoln County a steady dose of Tyler Morehead. If Morehead has a big night, we believe Clinch has a great shot at winning on the road. But we believe the Red Devils can counter with their stable of backs. We like the home team Red Devils by a two this week in a tightly contested game. 

The Skinny

The Brooks County Trojans have advanced to the quarterfinals for the ninth time in thirteen seasons. Brooks County enters the game on a seven-game win streak and since their only loss they’ve outscored their opponents by an average score of 47-5. Quarterback Ni’Tavion Burrus has thrown for 1,716 yards and 21-TDs while Omari Arnold has rushed for 1,180 yards and 17-TDs to help propel the Trojans offense. Meanwhile on defense Camron Priest leads the team with 87 total tackles and J’Shawn Baker has recorded 19.5 sacks. As a team, Brooks is averaging 39.6 points per game while allowing 12.2. In their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 77-7.

The Washington-Wilkes Tigers will make the trip down to Quitman for the first time since 2014. The Tigers advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2005. Washington-Wilkes has won three straight games entering this week’s tilt and is averaging 37.2 points per game while allowing 10.3. Quarterback Dalen Cobb has thrown for 1,241 yards and 14-TDs and has added 582 yards and 11-TDs rushing. Zaikious Jackson leads the team in rushing with 729 yards and 13-TDs. As a team, the Tigers have rushed for 2,339 yards and 35-TDs. Corey Danner and Quinshawn Hearst lead the team with 68 and 66 total tackles respectively. The Tigers have outscored their two playoff opponents 75-35. Brooks County might have the best defense Washington-Wilkes has seen all season. We think it will be the difference on Friday night. Trojans by 13.

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GHSA 2A Quarterfinal Preview

Posted on December 8, 2020 by admin

We now turn our attention to the Class 2A GHSA quarterfinals. This preview features games between Callaway – Thomasville, Rabun County – Bleckley County, Fannin County – Fitzgerald and Jefferson County – Bremen.

Last week in our picks, we went 8-0 in Class 2A.  

If we had to pick a 2A game to attend, it would be Callaway and Thomasville.

As always, thanks for reading. Please feel free to comment and share. Best of luck to all of the teams competing on Friday night. 

All helmet images are courtesy of the Georgia High School Helmet Project. To see all of their work, please visit: http://www.gahelmetproject.com

The Skinny

The Callaway Cavaliers for the fifth consecutive season. Entering this week, the Cavs have won four consecutive games (including the Week-1 playoff forfeit over Banks County.) Last week, Callaway survived a tough Lovett team to get to this point of the season. Quarterback Demetrius Coleman has been steady for the Cavs all season while running back Charlie Dixon is a load to bring down. The Cavs are averaging 26.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.8 points per game.

The Thomasville Bulldogs will travel up to LaGrange to play for a spot in the semifinals. This will be the third time in four years that Thomasville has appeared in the quarterfinals. Ronnie Baker has led Thomasville with 1,894 yards passing and 20-TDs and has also added 722 yards and 11-TDs on the ground. Ricky Fulton leads the team in rushing with 730 yards and 13-TDs. Ty Anderson leads the defense with 113 total tackles. Thomasville has also forced 37 turnovers this season. They are averaging 34 points per game and allowing 16.7 this season and in their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 86-20. We don’t expect a Thomasville blow out this week, but we do like the visiting Bulldogs over Callaway in what looks like a tightly contested ballgame on paper. Thomasville by 4.

The Skinny

The Rabun County Wildcats are in the quarterfinals for the sixth consecutive season. The Wildcats have won nine straight games and have outscored their two playoff opponents by a score of 70-7. Gunner Stockton has thrown for 2,842 yards and 43-TDs and has rushed for 1,276 yards and 22-TDs. Lang Windham has also rushed for 1,233 yards and 12-TDs. Adriel Clark continues to have an outstanding senior season as he has caught 63 passes for 1,393 yards and 27-TDs, which ties the state record for receiving TDs in a season. Will Turpin has notched a team high 109 total tackles to lead the defense, while Sutton Jones has intercepted four passes in the secondary. Rabun County is averaging 48 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.

The Bleckley County Royals are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2006 as they went on the road last week and defeated Early County. Coming into last weeks game, Dominic Sasser has thrown for 1,653 yards and 21-TDs while Jahvon Butler has rushed for over 1,000 yards. Jaden Mobley has also had a breakout season at receiver leading the team with over 700 yards and 10-TDs. We can’t talk Bleckley County football without mentioning one of the best players in the country in offensive lineman Amarius Mims as he anchors the Royals at the line of scrimmage. Prior to the playoffs, Bleckley County had dropped two straight games, but have rebounded to outscore their two playoff opponents 97-22. On the season, the Royals are averaging 35.4 points per game while allowing 19.4. They might need to score a few more than 35 to keep pace with Rabun County. Even then, we like the Wildcats by 17 at home. 

The Skinny

The Fannin County Rebels find themselves in the quarterfinals for the first time since 1995. The Rebels are led on offense by dual threat quarterback Luke Holloway. He’s thrown for 1,848 yards and 26-TDs and rushed for 780 yards and 9-TDs. Holloway has only been intercepted twice in 203 pass attempts. Jalen Ingram and Cohutta Hyde lead the team in receiving with a combined 57 receptions for 1,236 yards and 22-TDs. Micah O’Neal and Cason Owensby lead the defense in total tackles with 96 and 94 respectively. The Rebels have sacked opposing quarterbacks 30 times and intercepted 15 passes in the secondary. They are averaging 39.7 points per game on the year while allowing 11.8. In the playoffs, they have outscored their opponents 49-35.

The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes are in the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. The Canes are 11-0 for the first time since 2009. Fitzgerald is averaging 35.6 points per game while allowing 12.4 points per game. In their two playoff games, they’ve outscored their opponents 93-30. Fitzgerald has defeated ten playoff teams this season. We think they will make it eleven this week. We like Fitzgerald by two touchdowns on the road.

The Skinny

The Jefferson County Warriors are in the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. We’ve mentioned before that the Warriors are a run heavy team and only attempt about 8 passes per game. As a team, Jefferson County has amassed over 2,600 and 41-TDs on the ground this season. When Jefferson County does throw it, Mike Murray has been the primary target with 486 yards and 4-TDs on the year. Aquavious Hunter and Kobe Heggs lead the secondary with four interceptions each. Jefferson County is averaging 36.4 points per game while allowing 17.4 points per game. They have outscored their two playoff opponents 78-51.

The Bremen Blue Devils are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2011. Bremen is averaging 27.8 points per game while allowing 20.3 points per game. The Blue Devils have won three straight games coming into this week’s game. In their two playoff games, Bremen has outscored their opponents 70-27. Word around Region 5 is that Bremen specializes in stopping the run, so that makes this a battle of strength on strength. We don’t believe the Blue Devils will be intimidated by playing on the road, but we do like the Warriors at home this week in a close game. Jefferson County by 6. 

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