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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GHSA 3A Quarterfinal Preview

Posted on December 8, 2020 by admin

Our Class 3A quarterfinal previews are up next. This preview features games between Greater Atlanta Christian – Appling County, Oconee County – Peach County, Pierce County – Carver, Atlanta and Crisp County – Cedar Grove.

Last week in our Class 3A picks, we went 7-1. The Carver Atlanta Panthers proved us wrong last week! Way to go Panthers! 

If we had to pick a 3A game to attend, it would be the rematch of the 2019 finals, Cedar Grove at Crisp County. But let’s be real, all of these games should be fantastic.

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 Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans advanced to the quarterfinals for the seventh time in nine years. The Spartans recorded their second shutout of the season and have now outscored their two playoff opponents 70-7. Greater Atlanta Christian got two rushing touchdowns from quarterback Deymon Flemming and two from running back Marcus Wilson in last week’s victory. This season, Flemming has thrown for 1,651 yards and 20-TDs while Aidan Baily and Joseph Rose lead the defense with 77 and 75 total tackles respectively. The Spartans are averaging 29.9 points per game on offense while allowing 11.2.

The Spartans will host the Appling County Pirates from Region 1. Appling County advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2011. Last week, the Pirates scored over 60 points for the third time this season. They are averaging 43.5 points per game while allowing 12.2. Earlier this season, we mentioned how well the Pirates swarm to the ball on defense. They will need a lot more of that this week as they make the trip up from Baxley. In their two playoff games the Pirates have outscored their opponents 103-20. Appling won’t score 60 this week, but we believe they will score just enough to get a big victory on the road. Pirates by 9.

The Skinny

The Oconee County Warriors advanced to the quarterfinals for the second straight season and are 10-0 for the first time since 2001. Oconee County has not surrendered more than 16 points in any game and on average is allowing 8.5 points per game. Defensive leaders for the Warriors include West Weeks, Justin Coleman and Liam Lewis among others. On offense the Warriors are averaging 30.8 points per game with Jake Johnson as the primary target at receiver. In their two playoff games, Oconee County has outscored their opponents 63-14.

The Warriors will host Class 3A perennial power Peach County. The Trojans advanced to the quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive season. Peach County has won nine straight games entering this week since their week-1 loss. The Trojans have not allowed more than 14 points in a game this season. Offensively they are scoring 41.4 points per game while allowing 7.5. In their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 106-7. Expecting Peach to put up 41 points on the road is probably a little outlandish, but we do believe the Trojans have enough weapons on offense to steal one this week. Peach County by 6.

The Skinny

The Pierce County Bears are back in the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. Since dropping a game to Fitzgerald, the Bears have won six straight games and recorded their fourth shutout of the season. Quarterback Jermaine Brewton and running back D.J. Bell have helped lead the offense this season. Meanwhile, Austin Jernigan and Spencer Woodcock lead the team in tackles. Pierce County is averaging 36.7 points per game while the defense is allowing only 8.9.

The Bears will host the Carver Panthers out of Atlanta. Carver is making their second quarterfinals appearance since 2017.  Jarveous Brown has eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark on the season to lead the way for the Panthers offense. Carver has won five of their last six games entering this week and have outscored their two playoff opponents 55-42. On the season, the Panthers are averaging 21.3 points per game while allowing 25.2. We expect for the Pierce County defense to cause problems for the Carver offense this week and for the Bears offense to continue to roll. We like Pierce County by 18.

The Skinny

The Crisp County Cougars are in the quarterfinals for the third time in five years. The Cougars have been almost spotless this season, with their lone loss coming at the hands of Peach County by 1. They have won five games since then and have really flexed their defensive muscle in the playoffs, outscoring their opponents by a score of 71-0. Marquise Palmer and quarterbacks AJ Lofton and Ahmad Brown help lead the way on offense for the Cougars while Chris Paul Jr., Nick Mercer and Preston Lavant lead the way for the Cougars defense. Crisp has sacked opposing quarterbacks 41 times while J’Kobe Harris leads the secondary with 9 interceptions. Crisp County is averaging 28.3 points per game overall this season while allowing 5.7.

They will host the Cedar Grove Saints who are in the quarterfinals for the sixth straight season. For those who don’t know, the Saints are the two time defending Class 3A Champions and have made it to the semifinals in each of the past five seasons. The Saints are winners of their last three games, but had to survive a scare in overtime against Rockmart last week. Cedar Grove has outscored their two playoff opponents 58-39. On the season, the Saints are averaging 33.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.5. While those numbers are really impressive, we think there might be a hitch in their giddy-up and could be ripe for an upset. We like the Cougars at home by 1. 

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GHSA 4A Quarterfinal Preview

Posted on December 7, 2020 by admin

We now turn our attention to class 4-A for our GHSA quarterfinal previews. This preview features games between Benedictine – Riverdale, Jefferson – Carver, Columbus, Cedartown – Bainbridge and Perry – Marist. 

Last week in our picks, we went 7-1 in Class 4A. The Perry Panthers proved us wrong last week! Way to go Panthers! 

If we had to pick a 4A game to attend, it would be a road trip to Savannah to watch Benedictine square off against Riverdale. Great defense versus great offense. Should be a good one!

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 are in the quarterfinals for the seventh time in eight years. Going into last week’s game, quarterback Holden Geriner had thrown for just under 2,000 yards and 19-TDs. He leads an offense that is averaging 38.6 points per game. Defensively, Holden Sapp and Keiran Glover lead the team in total tackles. Sapp also leads the team in sacks. The Cadets are allowing 26.7 points per game. In their two playoff games, Benedictine is outscoring their opponents 87-58

The Riverdale Raiders have won six straight games and have advanced to the quarterfinal round for the first time since 1998. On the season, Riverdale is averaging 33 points per game while the defense is only allowing 8.5 points. In their two playoff games, they are outscoring their opponents 86-24. This will be the first time the Raiders will play on the road in the playoffs this season. It should be fun to see Riverdale quarterback Avaun Rucker duel with Benedictine’s Geriner. We really like Riverdale’s defense, but believe the long road trip will be tough to overcome. We’ll take Benedictine by 6.  

The Skinny

The Jefferson Dragons are making their fourth quarterfinals appearance in the last five years. Jefferson has shut out their last three opponents and are averaging 45.8 points per game on offense while only allowing 6.9 points per game. In their two playoff appearances, the Dragons have outscored their opponents 100-0. The Dragons are only attempting about 4 passes per game this season. As a team, they’ve rushed for 3,257 yards and 47-TDs. Quarterback Malaki Starks is the engine for the Dragons as he’s rushed for 1,053 yards and 17-TDs. We mentioned Starks does not throw it often, but of his 15 completions on the season, 10 have gone for touchdowns.

The Carver Columbus Tigers will travel across the state to face Jefferson on Friday night. It will be the first time the Tigers have advanced to the quarterfinals since 2013. Carver shutout Baldwin last week in a defensive battle and kept their record spotless in the process. It was the second shutout of the year for the Tigers defense which is allowing 9.9 points per game. Offensively, Carver was kept well below their season average of 38.6 points per game. In their two playoff games, Carver is outscoring their opponents 34-3. We don’t believe they can keep Jefferson to those type numbers this week. Dragons are too explosive, especially at home. We like Jefferson by 18.

The Skinny

The Cedartown Bulldogs ran wild last week on their way to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. Cedartown has now won eight straight games. It was the second shutout of the season for the Bulldogs. They are averaging 36.7 points per game while allowing 10.7 points this season. Cedartown is also run intensive on offense and is led by Harlem Diamond, C.J. Washington and Jayden Johnson. Prior to last weeks win, the trio had combined for 28 rushing TDs and over 1,700 yards. 

The Bulldogs will get a visit from the Bainbridge Bearcats who advanced to the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. Bainbridge has won eight straight games coming into this week. They are averaging 31.5 points per game on the season and allowing 15 per game. Bainbridge has outscored their two playoff opponents 85-0. They have a balanced attack behind quarterback Quayde Hawkins (1,771 yards passing 22-TDs), running back Rashad Broadnax (1,209 yards, 15-TDs) and receiver Braxton Johnson (43 receptions, 803 yards, 11-TDs). We find it highly unlikely that Bainbridge will shut out Cedartown this week, but we do like the Bearcats on the road. Bainbridge by 8.

The Skinny

The Perry Panthers find themselves in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2007. The Panthers are winners of their last six games. Quarterback Lane Rucker has now thrown for 1,943 yards and 13-TDs while Makeil Kendrick has rushed for 1,137 yards and 14-TDs. Kendrick went for a season high 195 yards and 3-TDs last week against LaGrange. On the season, Perry is averaging 25 points per game while allowing 15.6. In their two playoff games, they are outscoring their opponents 64-18.

Their opponent this week will be the Marist War Eagles. Marist rolls into the quarterfinals for the eighth time in nine years. The War Eagles earned their seventh shutout of the season and have been absolutely stifling on defense, allowing their opponents an average of 2.7 points per game. While scoring an average of 37.1 points per game. their two playoff games, Marist has outscored their two playoff opponents 73-0. We like Perry to get on the scoreboard this week, but we don’t think they can slow down the War Eagles. We like Marist by three touchdowns. 

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GHSA 5A Quarterfinal Preview

Posted on December 7, 2020 by admin

We continue our GHSA Quarterfinal previews with Class 5A. This preview features games between Ware County – Cartersville, Calhoun – Coffee, Blessed Trinity – Warner Robins and Jones County – Eastside.  

Last week in our picks, we went 7-1 in Class 5A. Coffee was brewing last week, but we missed it. Way to go Trojans!

If we had to pick a 5A game to attend…wow…you couldn’t go wrong with any of them; but we’d attend Blessed trinity-Warner Robins. As it matches the No. 1 and No. 2 teams from our poll.

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 Ware County Gators advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2016 and has now won four consecutive games. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos threw for 326 yards and 3-TDs and also rushed for another 3-TDs in the victory. Castellanos has now thrown for 2,622 yards and 22-TDs and rushed for 824 yards and 21-TDs. The Gators are averaging 36 points per game while allowing 16.3 points per game and have outscored their two opponents in the playoffs 73-25.

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes advanced to the quarterfinals for the third straight season and for the seventh time in nine years. Since losing their only game of the season back in early October, they have won six straight. Quante’ Jennings had a big night for the Canes with 157 yards rushing and 3-TDs. He has now rushed for 791 yards and 19-TDs on the season. The Canes are averaging 37.5 points per game and allowing 10.6. Both teams have a common opponent in Creekside. Cartersville beat them by 3 while Ware County won by 24 last week. We believe there will be fireworks by both teams this week, but like the Gators by five. 

The Skinny

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets advanced to the quarterfinals for the twelfth time in thirteen years with their 19-point win over Clarke Central last Friday. Calhoun will be at home for the first time in three weeks. The Jackets are averaging 34.5 points per game on the season while the defense is allowing 17.9 points. In their two playoff games, they are outscoring their opponents 79-35. 

Calhoun will host the No. 3 seed from Region 1, the Coffee Trojan. Coffee is in the quarterfinals for the fifth straight season. They have now won four straight games since losing to Ware County back in October. Last week, quarterback A.J. Wilkerson threw for 116 yards and a touchdown and also rushed for another score while Maurice Turner rushed for 142 yards to help lead the way on offense. The Trojans are averaging 33 points per game while allowing 12.1. In the playoffs, they’ve outscored their opponents 55-16. If they can keep this game low scoring, we like their chances with their defense. But something tells us that Calhoun may have other plans. We like the Jackets at home by 4.

The Skinny

The Blessed Trinity Titans are in the quarterfinals for the eight consecutive season. Blessed Trinity has not seriously been challenged on the scoreboard since their game against Calhoun back in October. The Titans recorded their fourth shutout of the season. Justice Haynes had another big game on offense for the Titans who are averaging 45.8 points per game while allowing 10.1. In two playoff games, Blessed Trinity has outscored their opponents 93-14.

The Warner Robins Demons will travel to Roswell this week to face Blessed Trinity. The Demons are making their fourth straight quarterfinals appearance. Prior to last week’s game, running backs Malcolm Brown and Jalen Rutherford had combined for 1,597 and 14-TDs. Warner Robins has reeled off six straight wins since dropping a game to Lee County back in October. On the season, Warner Robins is averaging 36.1 points per game and allowing 12.6 points. If we could have drawn things up, this would have been our state title match-up. It should be fun to watch the Warner Robins defensive line led by Vic Burley go up against a very sound Blessed Trinity line led by Ty Furnish. And the three running backs, Haynes for the Titans and Brown and Rutherford for the Demons. It should be a dandy. The only edge we can really find is that Blessed Trinity is playing at home. That’s enough for us to believe the Titans will win this one by 5. 

The Skinny

The Jones County Greyhounds have been red hot since the start of October, reeling off nine straight wins and have found themselves in the quarterfinals for the fourth time in five years. Quarterback John Alan Richter has thrown for 1,780 yards and 16-TDs while Andrew Carner has been steady all season rushing for 1,378 yards and 25-TDs. Last week, he rushed for over 200-yards for the second time this season. Jones County is averaging 35.5 points per game while allowing 13.2. In their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 61-38. 

The Eastside Eagles will make the trip down to Gray after knocking off Region-6 Champion, New Manchester last week. The Eagles advanced to the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. Eastside has won six straight games. During that stretch, the defense has only allowed 17 points total. On the season, Eastside is surrendering 11 points per game. Junior running back Dallas Johnson has been the bell-cow for the Eagles offense with 1,376 yards and 8-TDs, while Sincere Johnson has chipped in another 10-TDs on the ground. The Eagles are averaging 27.7 points per game. In their two playoff games, they have outscored their opponents 40-7. We believe this will be a tightly contested battle, but like the home team here. Greyhounds by 7.

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GHSA 7A Quarterfinal Preview

Posted on December 6, 2020 by admin

We have made it to the quarterfinals of the GHSA Football Playoffs. Our first preview this week features games between Milton – Lowndes, Collins Hill – Parkview, Norcross – Colquitt County and Grayson – West Forsyth. 

Last week in our picks, we went 6-2 in Class 7A. West Forsyth and Parkview were the winners we did not expect to see in the round of 8. Way to go Wolverines and Panthers! 

If we had to pick a 7A game to attend, it would definitely be Milton-Lowndes. But all four of these games should be great contests.

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 Milton Eagles are back in the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. The Eagles got another 100-yard game from junior running back Jordan McDonald to help advance last week. McDonald has now rushed for 1,241 yards and 23-TDs this season. Milton has been held to under 20 points only three times this season. They are averaging 31.1 points per game while allowing 12.9. 

The Lowndes Vikings will pay a visit to Milton this week as they advanced to the quarterfinals for the fourth time in five years. Lowndes got past a stubborn North Cobb team last week. Jacurri Brown scored two touchdowns in the win, but was held to 42 yards passing and 81 yards rushing. On the season, Brown has now thrown for 1,296 yards and rushed for 926 yards. Lowndes is now averaging 30.6 points per game while allowing 16.5. The back-to-back long road trips should start to take a toll on the Vikings, but if Milton does not have Farrell this week at quarterback, Lowndes can really key in on slowing down Jordan McDonald. That’s going to be easier said than done, but nevertheless, we like the Vikings by 8. 

The Skinny

The Collins Hill Eagles are on to the quarterfinals for the first time in five years as they beat Denmark last week. The Eagles have now won six consecutive games. Quarterback Sam Horn has now thrown for 2,975 yards and 34-TDs to lead an offense that is averaging 31.2 points per game. Meanwhile, James Smith leads the Eagles defense with 146 total tackles and 50 tackles for loss and 14 sacks. Collins Hill is surrendering 15.8 points per game this season.

The Parkview Panthers will come calling for Collins Hill on Friday night as they advanced to the quarterfinals for the third time in four years. Parkview has a formidable 1-2 duo at running back in Cody Brown and Tyler Curtis, but it was sophomore quarterback Colin Houck who tossed 4-TD passes last week to lead the way for Parkview. The Panthers are now averaging 29.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.7. We believe the running game will be crucial for Parkview this week. We did not mention Travis Hunter for Collins Hill earlier, but we understand he was a little banged up last week. If he returns at full strength this week, we like the Eagle’s chances. Yet, we are going to go with the Parkview ground machine. Panthers by 6.

The Skinny

The Norcross Blue Devils are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2013, when they won their last state title. Norcross has answered the bell week in and week out. Offensively, they’ve scored 40 or more points in all but four of their games this season. Quarterback Mason Kaplan has now thrown for over 2,100 yards and 26-TDs. Last week however it was running back Jahni Clarke who carried the load for the Norcross with over 200 yards rushing and 3-TDs. Norcross is averaging 41.6 points per game while their defense has not allowing over 21 points in a game this season, holding opponents to an average of 15 points per game. 

The Region -1 champion Colquitt County Packers will pay Norcross a visit on Friday. They advanced to the quarterfinal round for the eleventh time in twelve years. The Packers had a big night defensively last week and will need the secondary to step up again this Friday. The packers are holding opposing teams to 9.8 points per game this season and in their first two playoff games at home, allowed only 15 total points and just one touchdown. We’ve noticed Xavier Williams missing from the box score recently. If he is unable to play this week, that certainly does give a small advantage to Norcross…But perhaps not enough. Packers by 4 on the road. 

The Skinny

The Grayson Rams are back in the quarterfinals for the third straight season and the fifth time in six years. Grayson is outscoring their opponents by an average of 39.7 to 8.9 on the season. In two playoff games, it’s an average of 36.5 to 3. Grayson will need to find more fluidity on offense with the absence of running back Phil Mafah. There are enough weapons on offense for Grayson, but they will need to be more-crisp this week.

They will host the West Forsyth Wolverines who are making their second quarterfinals appearance in school history. West edged out North Gwinnett in a defensive battle last week. It was the seventh win in a row for the Wolverines. West Forsyth is averaging 25.3 points per game and allowing 17.2. For what it’s worth, Mill Creek was the common opponent between the two teams, Grayson bet them by 7 while West Forsyth lost by 3. Coach Dave Svehla always seems to have his teams playing at their peak at playoff time. We believe the Wolverines will be in the game, but Grayson finds a way this week. Rams by 13.

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