Class 3A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 1 of 4

Posted on November 27, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. We now turn our attention to class 3A This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Appling County – Morgan County, Southeast Bulloch – Upson-Lee, North Hall – North Murray and GAC – Franklin 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 Appling County Pirates are the No. 2 seed from Region 1. The Pirates are in the post season for the fourth consecutive year. Appling County had won their first nine games before falling to region rival Pierce County last week. The Pirates have defeated five playoff teams this season. They are averaging 41.5 points per game and allowing 12.7. They have scored over thirty points five times this season.

The Morgan County Bulldogs are the No. 3 seed from Region 4. The Bulldogs are in the playoffs for the fifth straight season. Morgan County enters the playoffs on a three-game win streak. They have defeated three playoff teams this season. They are averaging 25.2 points per game while allowing 10.5 points. During their previous four appearances, Morgan County has not advanced past the first round. We believe that trend continues this week. We like the Pirates by 24. 

The Skinny

The Southeast Bulloch Yellow Jackets are the Region Champions from Region 3. The Jackets are in the playoffs for the seventh time in eight years. This was their first title since 1994. Southeast only played one region opponent due to the decision made by Savannah-Chatham Schools only playing a school system schedule. Nevertheless, the Jackets won the game that counted most and will host a playoff game Friday night. Southeast is averaging 25.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.3. They have defeated four playoff teams this year.

The Upson Lee Knights are the No. 4 seed from Region 2. The Knights are in the post-season for the fifth time in six years. Upson-Lee does most of their damage on the ground. Running back Detravious Mathis is the team’s leading rusher. Upson Lee has defeated one playoff team this season. They are averaging 24.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.8 points per game. Even though the Knights are on the road, we think they can pull the upset this week in a thriller. We like Upson-Lee by 3.

The Skinny

The North Hall Trojans are the No. 2 seed from Region 7. The Trojans are in the playoffs for the eighth time in nine years. North Hall is almost exclusively run. They have attempted 56 total passes this season. Clark Howell has been the bell-cow for the Trojans with 1,483 yards on the ground with 21-TDs. Overall, the Trojans have rushed for 2,815 yards and 33-TDs. North Hall dropped their first three games but closed out the season winning six of their last seven. They are averaging 27.7 points per game but allowing 27 points per game. 

The North Murray Mountaineers are the No. 3 seed from Region 6. North Murray is in the playoffs for the fifth straight season. North Murray has won four of their last five games entering the post season. They can also light up the scoreboard. Only once have they been held to less than 28 points. They are averaging 39.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 28.5 points per game. They have defeated one playoff team this season. We suspect this game will be high scoring. We believe that favors the Mountaineers. We like North Murray by 7. 

The Skinny

The Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans are the Region 5 Champions. Since 1995 the Spartans have only missed the playoffs twice. Greater Atlanta Christian is led by quarterback Deyon Fleming who has thrown for 1,441 yards and 18-TDs. Brooks Miller is the team’s leading receiver with 7-TDs. Greater Atlanta has defeated five playoff teams on the season. They are averaging 28.7 points per game and allowing 13 points. 

The Franklin County Lions are the No. 4 team from Region 8. The Lions are in the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Franklin County won their first five games but have gone 2-2 down the stretch. They have defeated one playoff team this season. Franklin County is averaging 27.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.4 points per game. The Lions have not had the success against the top tier teams on their schedule. For that reason, we like Greater Atlanta Christian this week by four touchdowns. 

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Class 4A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 4 of 4

Posted on November 25, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. We now turn our attention to class 4A This will be a four part series. This preview features games between LaGrange – New Hampstead, Perry – Westover, Flowery Branch – Luella and Marist – Central Carroll. 

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 LaGrange Grangers are the No. 2 Seed from Region 2 and are in the playoffs for the first time since 2014. LaGrange has won three of their last five games and have defeated one playoff team this season. LaGrange is averaging 31.4 points per game and is allowing 20.2. All of the Grangers losses this season have come against teams that have qualified for the post season. In their seven wins, LaGrange is averaging 39.1 points per game. However, in their three losses, they are only scoring 13.3.

The New Hampstead Phoenix are the No. 3 seed from Region 3. The Phoenix are in the post season for the fourth time in five years. New Hampstead won their first four games before dropping a game to Islands. They closed out the season winning their final two games. The Phoenix are scoring 39.2 points per game while allowing 10.4 points per game. They have defeated two playoff teams this season. We believe LaGrange is a little more battle tested this week and like them by 5.  

The Skinny

The Perry Panthers are the Region 4 Champions. The Panthers claimed their second region title in school history and are in the playoffs for the third straight year. Quarterback Lane Rucker has thrown for 1,636 yards and 11-TDs while Makeil Kendrick has rushed for 832 yards and 10-TDs. Daequan Wright and Curtis Head have combined to catch 78 passed for 953 yards and 9-TDs. Camerin Marshall leads the team with 110 total tackles. Perry enters the playoffs on a four-game win streak. They are averaging 23.7 points per game and allowing 17. The Panthers have defeated two playoff teams this season. 

The Westover Patriots are the No. 4 seed from Region 1. Westover is in the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The Patriots are averaging 17.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.2. While they’ve only won one game, Westover has been competitive in all of their games this season. They have not defeated a playoff team. We expect this to be the closest game between a one seed and a four seed. We still like the Panthers by a touchdown. 

The Skinny

The Flowery Branch Falcons are the No. 2 seed from Region 8. They are in the playoffs for the fourth straight year. Quarterback David Renard has thrown for 2,159 yards and 18-TDs. His top receivers are Connor Larson (45 receptions, 787 yards, 4-TDs) and Sal Sengson (28 receptions, 472 yards, 3-TDs.) Myles Avery and Jaizen Ellingham have combined to rush for 1,175 yards and 16-TDs on the season. The Falcons enter the post season winners of their last five games. They have defeated five playoff teams this year. 

The Luella Lions are the No. 3 seed from Region 5. The Lions are in the playoffs for the second straight season. Luella is led by running back James Jones who has rushed for 763 yards and 5-TDs. Antonio Johnson has caught 14 passes for 304 yards and 3-TDs. Luella has only thrown the ball 99 times this season. The defense has intercepted 12 passes this season and forced 21 turnovers. Luella is averaging 19.7 points per game and allowing 18.4. If they can force a few turnovers on Saturday, they should have a shot to upset Flowery Branch. We still like the Falcons chances. Flowery Branch by 14.

The Skinny

The Marist War Eagles are the Region 6 Champions. Marist has not missed the post season since 1983. The War Eagles have one of the best offensive lines in the state anchored by Steve Nahmias, Davis McKenna and Ian Erickson. But their defense has been dominant allowing just three touchdowns all season. All of those were scored in the last game of the season. They’ve shut out five of their eight opponents. They are averaging 37.2 points per game while allowing only 3.3. Marist has defeated five playoff teams this season.

The Central Carroll Lions are the No 4 seed from Region 7 and are in the playoffs for the first time since 2015. Like Marist, Central will get most of their offense from the rushing attack. They feature one of the best running backs in Class 4-A in Narada Levett. He’s rushed for 1.622 yards and 16-TDs. On defense Jayden Greene has intercepted four passes to lead the secondary. Central is averaging 29 points per game while allowing 22.5 points. They have lost two of their last three games entering the playoffs. This is a tough draw for the Lions. Marist’s defense has been tough all season and we expect nothing less from them in the playoffs. We like the War Eagles by thirty. 

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Class 4A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 3 of 4

Posted on November 25, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. We now turn our attention to class 4A This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Fayette County -North Oconee, Islands – Hardaway, and Bainbridge – Westside, Macon. It is our understanding that the Cedartown Arabia Mountain game has been canceled due to Covid and Cedartown will move on to the second round . 

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 Fayette County Tigers are the No. 2 seed from Region 5. Fayette County is in the post season for the first time since 2015. Running back Andre Wright has rushed for 909 yards and 9-TDs while Shaquille Ancrum has added 601 yards and 6-TDs. The Tigers have won four of their last five games and have defeated two playoff teams. The Tigers are averaging 21.4 points per game while allowing 10.3.

The North Oconee Titans are the No. 3 seed from Region 8. North Oconee is in the post season for the third consecutive year. In their previous two appearances, the Titans have advanced to the second round. Coming into the playoffs, North Oconee has won four of their last five games. They have defeated one playoff team this season and are averaging 31.2 points per game while allowing 25.4. If Fayette County can run the ball and control the clock, we like their chances. However, we believe this might be a higher scoring game which we believes favors North Oconee. We like the Titans by 8.

The Skinny

The Islands Sharks are the No. 2 seed from Region 3 and are in the playoffs for the first time since 2016. The Sharks also won the most games in school history and will finish with a winning record for the first time in school history. Quarterback Jadon Adams has thrown for 850 yards and 10-TDs while rushing for 413 yards and 9-TDs. Donovan Davelaar has rushed for 422 yards and 5-TDs. The defense has forced 21 turnovers this season. The Sharks are averaging 34.1 points per game while allowing only 6.8. Prior to last week, the Sharks won six straight but were derailed by Windsor Forest. 

The Hardaway Hawks are the No. 3 seed from Region 2. The Hawks are in the playoffs for the third consecutive year. They’ve only advanced beyond the first round twice in school history. Running backs Jordan Moultrie (884 yards, 9-TDs) and Kentavious Day (639 yards, 6-TDs) are the team’s top rushers Hardaway has rushed for 2,502 yards and 28 touchdowns as a team.  Meanwhile, Sayvion Fuller is the team’s leading receiver with 19 receptions for 289 yards and 3-TDs. Jakeveon Upshaw leads the team with 91 total tackles, while Mykel Williams and Javontae McGill have combined for 23.5 sacks. Hardaway had won six in a row before dropping their last two games of the season. They are averaging 35.6 points per game while allowing 11.3. we like the Hawks ability to run the ball and that’s why we pick them to upset Islands this week. Hardaway by 8. 

The Skinny

The Bainbridge Bearcats are the Region 1 Champion and are in the post season for the 18th time in 19 years. Bainbridge has won six straight games entering the playoffs. Quarterback Quayde Hawkins has thrown for 1,435 yards and 16-TDs. His top receiver this year has been Braxton Johnson with 37 receptions for 625 yards and 7-TDs. Rashad Broadnax has rushed for 948 yards and 13-TDs. Zion Bouie leads the secondary with three interceptions. Bainbridge is averaging 29.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 18 points per game. The Bearcats have defeated four playoff teams this season.

The Westside Macon Seminoles are the No. 4 seed from Region 4. Since 2006, the Seminoles have only missed the playoffs twice. Quarterback Ja’lon Miller has thrown for 1,018 yards and 8-TDs while Vanseasn Jackson  has rushed for 632 yards and 7-TDs. Takendre Coats and Quamae Adkins have combined to catch 61 passe for 867 yards and 5-TDs. Kennedy Parker leads the team with 60 total tackles and 8 sacks. Westside has won three of their last five games and is averaging 23 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.7 points per game. The Bearcats are our favorite to win this one, but we think it will be competitive for a half before Bainbridge pulls away. We like the Bainbridge by 18. 

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Class 4A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 2 of 4

Posted on November 25, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. We now turn our attention to class 4A This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Hapeville Charter – Heritage, Jefferson – Mt. Zion Jonesboro, Baldwin – Thomas County Central and Carver – Jenkins. 

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 Hapeville Charter Hornets are the No. 2 seed from Region 6. The Hornets are in the playoffs for the fifth straight year. Hapeville has won their last three games entering the playoffs. Two of their three losses have come against playoff teams and not just any teams, but state title contenders. The Hornets have not been as explosive on offense this season, averaging only 16.6 points per game while allowing 18.7. They have however defeated two playoff teams. 

The Heritage Generals are the No. 3 seed from Region 7 and are also in the playoffs for the fifth straight season. The Generals have won two of their last three games entering the playoffs. Quarterback Nick Hanson has thrown for 1,355 yards and 10-TDs while Parker McCrary has run for 553 yards and 3-TDs. Logan Lowe and Ryan Heet have combined to catch 55 passes for 709 yards and 6-TDs. Zach Brown leads the team in total tackles with 90 while Kaden Swope has intercepted four passes in the secondary. The Generals are averaging 20.3 points per game while allowing 19.8. We aren’t quite sure that Heritage has seen a defense as good as Hapeville Charters and for that reason alone, we like the Hornets by two touchdowns this week. 

The Skinny

The Jefferson Dragons are the Region 8 Champions and are in the playoffs for the 21st time in 23 years. Jefferson beat all comers this year. Their closest game was a 7-point win over Hart County. The Dragons will do most of their damage on the ground. (They’ve only attempted 41 passes this season.) Malachi Starks is dangerous under center. The Junior has rushed for 759 yards and 12-TDs through seven games. As a team, the Dragons have churned out over 2,400 yards on the ground this season. Jefferson is averaging 44.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 8.6. They have defeated five playoff teams this year and have shut out two of their last three opponents coming into this week.

The Mt. Zion Jonesboro Bulldogs are the No. 4 team from Region 5. This is their first playoff appearance since 2009. The Bulldogs enter the playoffs winners of their last two games. In those games, they’ve outscored their opponents 70-15. However, on the season the Bulldogs are averaging 15.4 points per game while allowing 21.1. Mt. Zion has not defeated a playoff team this season. This could be a long night for the Bulldogs. We like Jefferson by seven touchdowns this week.

The Skinny

The Baldwin Braves are the No. 2 seed from Region 4 and since 2002 have only missed the playoffs three times. The Braves were only able to play five games this season and were undefeated until last week’s three-point loss against Perry. Quarterback Derrick Lewis has thrown for 682 yards and 9-TDs while Micah Welch and Jeramiyah Scott have combined for 550 yards and 8-TDs on the ground. Shatavious Hogan leads the team with 274 yards receiving on 15 catches. Baldwin is averaging 32.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.2 points. They have defeated two playoff teams this season. 

The Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets are the No. 3 seed from Region 1. Thomas County Central returns to post season action after a two-year hiatus. Dondell Green and Tykeem Wallace have combined to rush for 1,033 yards and 15-TDs. Defensively, Jordan Jones has tallied 81 total tackles for the Jackets. Thomas County enters the game winning three of their last five games. They have defeated one playoff team this season and are averaging 22.1 points per game while allowing 25.6. We don’t expect this game to be high scoring, but we do believe Baldwin has enough offense to outlast Thomas County Central. Braves by 10. 

The Skinny

The Carver Tigers are the Region 2 Champions and are in the post-season for the 15th consecutive year. The Tigers went undefeated in the regular season for the first time in 10 years. Quarterback Devin Riles has thrown for 1,316 yards and 13-TDs and has also rushed for 419 yards and 9-TDs. Jamari Riley and Jaiden Credle have combined for 1,280 yards and 20-TDs. Meanwhile, William Bonilla leads the team with 30 receptions for 521 yards and 4-TDs. The Carver defense has forced 15 turnovers and recorded 32 sacks. Carver has defeated three playoff teams this season and is averaging 44 points per game while allowing only 12.

The Jenkins Warriors are the No. 4 seed from Region 3. The Warriors are in the playoffs for the fifth straight year. Jenkins enters the playoffs winners of three of their last four games. In those four wins, they are averaging 40.2 points per game while allowing only 9.2, however in their three losses, the Warriors are averaging 11.3 points per game while allowing 28 points per game. The Warriors do have some weapons offensively, but we don’t believe there’s enough to keep pace with the Tigers. Carver by three touchdowns. 

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Class 4A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 1 of 4

Posted on November 25, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. We now take a look at Class 4A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Cairo – West Laurens, Benedictine – Troup, Northwest – Stephenson and Riverdale – Cedar Shoals. 

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 Cairo Syrupmakers are the No. 2 Seed from Region 1. Cairo has only missed the playoffs twice since 1994. Cairo enters the playoffs winners of their last four games. All of their losses have come against playoff teams. The Syrup Makers are led by Tay Solomon and Kevin Speed on offense. Cairo is averaging 21.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.3. The Syrupmakers have defeated two playoff teams this year.

The West Laurens Raiders are the No. 3 seed from Region 4. The Raiders are in the post season for the sixth time in seven years. In those appearances, they have at least advanced to the second round. In eight games, quarterback Bradley Wilson has thrown for 1,106 yards and 8-TDs while running back Cordarrian Hickman has rushed for 706 yards and 10-TDs. Jacob Holsey leads the team with 81 total tackles while Caden Snell has intercepted five passes in the secondary. West Laurens has defeated two playoff teams this season and is averaging 22.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.8. We believe West Laurens will have just enough on offense to pull off a minor upset and win on the road. Raiders by 4.

The Skinny

The Benedictine Cadets are the Region 3 Champions. They are in the playoffs for the tenth straight season. Benedictine won the region title this year by an odd circumstance. The Savannah area schools in their region opted out of a regular region schedule. So the GHSA awarded Benedictine the title since they had no control over the decision by the Savannah Chatham School System. Nevertheless, the Cadets have defeated four playoff teams this season. Holden Geriner has thrown for 1,694 yards and 17-TDs. Trent Broadnax is his leading receiver with 687 yards and 11-TDs while Justin Thomas has caught 25 passes for 508 yards and 5-TDs. Holden Sapp leads the defense with 77 total tackles and 8.5 sacks. Benedictine is averaging 37.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 26.1

The Troup Tigers are the No. 4 Seed from Region 2. Troup is in the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. The Tigers had won six consecutive games before losing to Carver on a questionable officiating call last week. Freshman quarterback Teo Todd has thrown for 680 yards and 5-TDs and rushed for 1,392 yards and 11-TDs. Anthony Ferguson has added 714 yards and 6-TDs on the ground as well. The Tigers are averaging 29.9 points per game this season while the defense is allowing 14.8 points per game. Troup has defeated one playoff team this season. The biggest question we have will be whether or not Benedictine shows signs of rust after not playing a game in almost a month. If Troup can jump on them early, we like their chances, but ultimately, we expect the Cadets to win by a touchdown.

The Skinny

The Northwest Whitfield Bruins are the No. 2 Seed from Region 7. Northwest is in the post season for the seventh time in eight years. The Bruins have advanced to the second round only once during that span. Northwest enters the game winners of their last three games. Quarterback Owen Brooker has thrown for 2,107 yards and 18-TDs. His top two receivers are Ray Morrison ( 42 receptions 835 yards, 9-TDs) and Matt Redmond ( 47 receptions 684 yards, 7-TDs). Adrian Reyes has added 653 yards on the ground. Redmond ha also intercepted 5 passes in the secondary. The Bruins have defeated three playoff teams and are averaging 29.7 points per game while allowing 23.4

The Stephenson Jaguars are the No. 3 seed from Region 3. Stephenson in the playoffs for the 21stconsecutive season. The Jaguars  opened up their season winning their first four games, but have since dropped their last two. Their defense has been the story, allowing 8.1 points per game and shutting out two of their opponents this season. The defense is led by linebacker Tommy Smith. Meanwhile look for offensive linemen Giovanni Agbo and George Jackson to help set the tone for the Stephenson ground game. The Jaguars have defeated one playoff team, but we believe they have the defense to go on the road and pull off an upset. Jaguars by 6.

The Skinny

The Riverdale Raiders are the Champions from Region 5. Riverdale is making their fourth playoff appearance in five years. In that stretch, they have not advanced past the 1st round. The Raiders come into this game winners of their last four games. More impressively than that is the fact that they have shut out all of those opponents. The Raiders have defeated two playoff teams this season and are averaging 30.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 7.6 points per game. 

The Cedar Shoals Jaguars are the No. 4 seed from Region 8. The Jaguars are making their fourth straight playoff appearance and have advanced to the second round in each of the past two seasons. They are led offensively by running back Jerdavian Colbert (626 yards, 5-TDs). Colbert is also the team’s top receiver with 16 receptions for 224 yards and 1-TD.  Linebacker Teryone Campbell is tops on the team with 57 total tackles. Cedar Shoals has won two of their last five games and have not defeated a playoff team this season. The Jaguars are averaging 13 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.8. We think Avaun Rucker and Riverdale will advance this week. Raiders by 24.

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Class 5A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 4 of 4

Posted on November 24, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. This post will end our class 5A preview. This preview features games between Griffin – Jonesboro, Jones County – Wayne County, Eastside – Southwest DeKalb and New Manchester-Hiram. 

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 Griffin Bears are the No. 2 Seed from Region 2. Griffin has only missed the playoffs once since 1996. The Bears have won five of their last six games coming into the playoffs. Coach Reid has used several players at key positions this year. Combined, the Bears quarterbacks have thrown for 1,194 yards and 9-TDs. Through nine games, Jordan Favors led the team with 426 yards and 4-TDs. Donovan Westmoreland leads the team in total tackles, tackles for loss and sacks. The Bears are averaging 19.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.9 points per game. The Bears have defeated two playoff teams this season.

The Jonesboro Cardinals are the No. 3 seed from Region 3 and are in the playoffs for the fifth time in six years. Jonesboro won their first six games but dropped two games back-to-back before closing out the season with a win. Jonesboro’s two losses were by a combined 14 points. The Cardinals are averaging 20.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 8.8 points per game. Jonesboro has shutout three of their opponents this season and have defeated one playoff team. This might be one of the most competitive games in the first round of Class 5A. We think Griffin will edge Jonesboro this week by 4. 

The Skinny

The Jones County Greyhounds are the No. 1 team from Region 4. The Greyhounds are in the playoffs for the eighth time in nine years. The Greyhounds have turned their season around after losing to two of the top teams from the top classification. They enter the playoffs on a seven-game win streak and are averaging 36.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 22.9 points. Andrew Carner has rushed for 1,097 yards and 21-TDs while Maleek Wooten has caught 39 passes for 570 yards and 8-TDs. Deon Richardson leads the team with 89 total tackles. The Greyhounds have defeated three playoff teams. 

The Wayne County Yellow Jackets are the No. 4 Seed from Region 1. The Yellow Jackets are in the playoffs for the ninth consecutive year. Wayne County is averaging 15.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 24.9 points per game. Wayne County has defeated one playoff team this season. Coming into the playoffs, Wayne County has lost three of their last four games. Wayne County should be able to keep the game close, but we like Jones County to pull away late. Greyhounds by 13.

The Skinny

The Eastside Eagles are the No. 2 seed from Region 2. The Eagles are in the playoffs for the fifth straight year and for the tenth time in thirteen years. Eastside has won their last four games and were two points away from winning a region title.  Dallas Johns has helped pace the offense with 1,139 yards and 6-TDs. Meanwhile Saabir Berrian leads the team with 19 receptions and 433 yards and 3-TDs. Grayson Malcom leads the defense with 74 total tackles. The Eagles are averaging 29.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.5 points per game. 

The Southwest DeKalb Panthers are the No. 3 seed from Region 5. The Panthers are in the post season for the fifth consecutive season. Southwest has won three of their last four games. Heading into the playoffs. As a team Southwest has rushed for 1,246 yards while Armond Davis has caught 17 passes for 392 yards and 4-TDs. The defense has recorded 23 sacks and 11 turnovers. Southwest is averaging 24.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.8. Southwest has defeated one playoff team this season. Even though they are trending up, we like Eastside at home by 11.

The Skinny

The New Manchester Jaguars are the Region Champion from Region 6. The Jags are in the post season for only the second time in school history and claimed their first region title this season. The Jaguars have won their last three games and have defeated three playoff teams. Quarterback Rico Jones has thrown for 1,212 yards and 12-TDs. Horatio Felds (42 receptions, 828 yards, 7-TDs) and Malik Laurent (41 receptions, 590 yards, 8-TDs) lead the team in receiving. Robert Iverson leads the team with 85 total tackles and 10 tackles for loss. The Jags are averaging 26.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.8 points per game. 

The Hiram Hornets are the No. 4 team from Region 7. The Hornets are in the post season for the second consecutive season. The Hornets only win of the season was an important one is at vaulted them into the playoffs. Hiram is averaging 19.4 points per game while allowing 34.2 points. Hiram is led on offense by Jirah Douglas who has rushed for 80 yards and 10-TDs and Dijon McKissack, who leads the team with 27 receptions for 383 yards and 4-TDs. The Hornets and Jaguars met up earlier this season with the Jaguars winning in a big way. We think this game will be slightly closer, but we like New Manchester to win again by 20. 

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Class 5A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 3 of 4

Posted on November 24, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. We continue on with the Class 5A previews. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Decatur – Greenbrier, Blessed Trinity – Chapel Hill, Woodward – Whitewater and Warner Robins – Union Grove. 

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 Decatur Bulldogs are the No. 2 seed from Region 5. The Bulldogs are in the post season for the second consecutive season. Decatur won six straight games before losing to St. Pius in the de facto region title game. Through six games, Marquis Hood led the team in rushing with 455 yards and 6-TDs. Hood also leads the team with 6 sacks on defense. Senior safety Sam Mahany has intercepted seven passes on the season. Decatur is averaging 29.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.4 points per game. The Bulldogs have defeated three playoff teams this season.

The Greenbrier Wolfpack are the No. 3 seed from Region 8. The Wolfpack is in the post season for the third consecutive season. Greenbrier has never made it past the first round.  Quarterback Brooks Pangle has thrown for 2,298 yards and 28-TDs. Brayden Collett (51 receptions, 957 yards, 17-TDs) and Malik Leverett (53 receptions, 560 yards, 7-TDs) are the top receivers. Beau Shugarts leads the defense with 105 total tackles and 9 sacks. The Wolfpack are averaging 27.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.5 points. Greenbrier has defeated three playoff teams. Sam Mahany should have several opportunities to add to his interception totals this week, but could this be the year that the Wolfpack break through. This one is a toss-up, so we will go with the home team by a field goal.

The Skinny

The Blessed Trinity Titans are the Region Champion from Region 7. The Titans are in the post season for the 10th straight year. They have won the previous three Class 4A state title games. Blessed Trinity has shut out their last three opponents and their closest game was a 14-point win over Calhoun. Sophomore Justice Haynes is the engine that makes the Titans go. Through his first four games of the season, he already racked up 858 yards and 12-TDs. The Titans have also benefited with the addition of quarterback J.C. French to the offense this season. Blessed Trinity is averaging 45.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 11.1 points. 

The Chapel Hill Panther are the No. 4 seed from Region 6. The Panthers are in the post season for third time in five years. The Panthers are led by running backs Michael Perkins (608 yards, 3-TDs) and Rudolph Paul, (682 yards, 5-TDs). Keyshawn Buckley is the team’s leading receiver with 23 receptions for 421 yards and 5-TDs. Zechariah White leads the team with 101 total tackles and Derrick Von Hubbard leads the team with 8 sacks. Chapel Hill is allowing 24.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.1 points per game. We have a feeling that the Chapel Hill Panthers will be chasing Justice Haynes a lot on Friday. We like the Titans by six touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Woodward Academy War Eagles are the No. 2 Seed from Region 3. Woodward Academy is in the post season for the 13th consecutive season. Woodward started off the year dropping their first three games, but bounced back to win six straight games before falling to Creekside in the season finale. Damari Alston leads the way on offense with 1,223 yards and 19-TDs. Alston is also the team’s leading receiver with 16 receptions for 196 yards and a touchdown. Errington Truesdell leads the defense with 76 total tackles and 14 tackles for loss. Truesdell is also tied for the team led for interceptions, (3). Woodward Academy is averaging 25.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.2 points per game.

The Whitewater Wildcats are the No. 3 seed from Region 2 and are in the post season for the third time in five years. Whitewater has won four of their last five games and have defeated one playoff team this season. Whitewater has done most of their damage on the ground this year. Dalton Bonner and Adeoluwa Erinle have combined for 910 yards and 7-TDs. Ty Marshall leads the team with 93 total tackles while T.J. Hill leads the team with 9 sacks. Whitewater is averaging 21.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.6 points per game. We believe Damari Alston will be too much to contain for Whitewater. We like Woodward by 13.

The Skinny

The Warner Robins Demons are the Region Champion from Region 1. The Demons are in the post season for the tenth straight season. Warner Robins has made it to the finals in each of the past three seasons. Warner Robins only loss this year was to Class 6A No. 1 Lee County. Quarterback Jalen Addie has thrown for 1,326 yards and 12-TDs while also adding 575 yards and 8-TDs rushing.  Running backs Malcolm Brown (705 yards, 6-TDs) and Jahlen Rutherford (693 yards, 6-TDs) lead the way on the ground for Warner Robbins. Demarcious Robinson leads the team in total tackles while Vic Burley leads the team in sacks with 9. Warner Robins is averaging 35.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.8 points per game. Warner Robins has defeated six playoff teams this season.

The Union Grove Wolverines are the No. 4 seed from Region 4. The Wolverines are in the playoffs for the first time since 2012. The Wolverines are winners of their last four games. Union Grove is averaging 27.6 points per game while allowing 21 points per game. They have not defeated a playoff team this season. We think this game could get out of hand early. We like the Demons by six touchdowns.    

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Class 5A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 2 of 4

Posted on November 24, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. We know look at Class 5A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Lithia Springs – Calhoun, Clarke Central – M.L. King, Ola-Coffee, and Starr’s Mill – Mundy’s Mill. 

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

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

The Skinny

The Lithia Springs Lions are the No. 2 seed from Region 6. They are also in the playoffs for the second consecutive season and only the second time in school history. Sophomore quarterback Ja’que Hart has thrown for 1,335 yards and 13-TDs while Lydell Daniel leads the team in rushing with 515 yards and 5-TDs. Javon Jennings leads the team in total tackles with 72 while Taye Seymore is close behind with 69. The Lions have defeated one playoff team this season and has won their final two games to close out the season. They are averaging 22.7 points per game and allowing 29.4 points per game. 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets are the No. 3 seed from Region 7 and are in the playoffs for the 21st consecutive season. Calhoun enters the game going 3-2 over their last five games, but those two losses where to two of the best teams in the 5A classification. The Jackets are averaging 33.6 points per game while allowing 18 points per game. Calhoun is led by running back Jerrian Hames, quarterback Christian Lewis and wide receiver Will Seamons. Even though the Jackets are on the road, we believe they are battle tested and should outlast the Lions. We like Calhoun by 20 this week. 

The Skinny

The Clarke Central Gladiators are the Region Champions from Region 8. The Gladiators are in the post season for the fifth consecutive season. The previous two years they advanced all the way to the quarterfinals. Quarterback William Robinson has thrown for 1,657 yards and 12-TDs. Running backs William Richardson and Felix Brady Jr. have combined for 1,059 yards rushing and 17-TDs while Jairus Mack leads the team with 29 receptions for 721 yards and 4-TDs. Jaavan Mack is tied with Tyreon Millsap for the team’s lead in interceptions with 4. The Gladiators have won six straight games and have defeated three playoff teams. 

The M.L. King Lions are the No. 4 seed from Region 5. The Lions are in the post season for the second straight year. M.L. King is averaging 19.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 22.7 points. The Lions have not defeated a playoff team this season. In their two wins, M.L. King has scored 48 points; they were held to 14 points or less in their five losses. We don’t think those numbers bode well traveling to Athens to face the Gladiators. We like Clarke Central by four touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Ola Mustangs are the No. 2 seed from Region 4. Ola is in the post season for the second consecutive season. This only the third time they’ve been to the post season since they started playing football in 2006. The Mustangs started off red hot winning their first six games before falling to Jones County by three. They’ve rebounded to win their last three games. The Mustangs average 287.5 yards per game on the ground and are led by Micah Bell (1,175 yards, 14-TDs) and quarterback Jake Hall (845 yards, 13-TDs). While the Mustangs won’t throw it much, sophomore Jaden Barnes has caught 31 passes for 342 yards and 4-TDs. Chris Ramos leads the team in total tackles with 66 while Devin Lee leads the team with 8 sacks. Ola is averaging 38.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.6 points per game. 

The Coffee Trojans are the No. 3 seed from Region 1. Coffee is in the post season for the seventh straight year. Quarterback A.J. Wilkerson has thrown for 1,187 yards and 12-TDs. A.J. Franklin leads the team in rushing with 428 yards and 6-TDs. Maurice Turner is the team’s leading receiver with 558 yards and 4-TDs. Anthony Gaskin leads the team in total tackles with 84. Coffee is averaging 34.2 points per game while allowing 13.1. Coffee has defeated four playoff teams this season. We don’t think either team will score over thirty points this week, but unfortunately for Ola, we believe Coffee will be brewing. We like the Trojans by 6.

The Skinny

The Starr’s Mill Panthers are the Region Champion from Region 2. The Panthers are in the post season for the seventh straight season. Since losing an overtime game to East Coweta in Week-1, the Panthers have won eight straight games. The Panthers are averaging 23.2 points per game while the defense has been dominant, allowing 6.5 points per game including four shutouts. They Panthers have racked up 2,475 team rushing yards and are led by Devin Barnett and Brandon Mathis. Safety Cole Bishop helps to anchor the dominating Panthers defense.

The Mundy’s Mill Tigers are the No. 4 seed from Region 3. The Panthers are in the post season for the second time in three years. Mundy’s Mill  quarterback Dajuan Springer has thrown for 1,086 yards and 12-TDs. His two top receivers are Antoine Green (31 receptions 576 yards, 4-TDs) and Cameron Barnes (29 receptions, 348 yards, 4-TDs). Running back Jaylan Grant has tallied 546 yards and 3-TDs on the season. Corey Barnes leads the team with 113 total tackles. Mundy’s Mill has won three of their last five games and have defeated one playoff team this season. We expect for Starr’s Mill and their rushing attack to ground up plenty of yards this week. Panthers by 30.

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Class 5A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 1 of 4

Posted on November 24, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. Next we will preview Class 5A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Ware County – Dutchtown, Creekside – Harris County, Cartersville – Jackson and St. Pius – Loganville. 

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 are the No. 2 seed from Region 1. The Gators have only missed the post season once since 1999. Ware County won their first six games before falling to Warner Robins. The Gators finished the season winning their last two games. This season the Gators have defeated seven playoff teams. Quarterback Thomas Castellanos has thrown for 2,169 yards and 18-TDs and has also rushed for 744 yards and 17-TDs. Raiden Kennedy, Jerry Wilkins and James Daniels have combined for 53 receptions for 1,065 yards and 11-TDs. Ware County is averaging 36 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.2

The Dutchtown Bulldogs are the No. 3 seed from Region 4. Dutchtown is in the post season for the fourth consecutive year. The Bulldogs had won five consecutive games before dropping their finale to Jones County. Dutchtown is averaging 19.2 points per game and allowing 12.3. However in their six wins, that average jumps to 28.8 points per game. The Bulldogs have defeated one playoff team this season. Dutchtown’s defense should keep this close for a half, but Castellanos will be too much to handle. We like the Gators by 28.

The Skinny

The Creekside Seminoles are the Region Champions from Region 3. The Seminoles are in the playoffs for the third straight year. Creekside enters the post season on a six-game win streak. Their only losses were to two highly ranked teams in Westlake and Cartersville. The Seminoles have rushed for 2,371 yards on the season and are led by Kamauri Davis (908 yards, 4-TDs). Freshmen safety Roderrick McCrary leads the defense with 74 total tackles while Denard Flowers leads the team with 11 sacks. The defense has intercepted 10 passes and forced a total of 22 turnovers this year. The Seminoles are averaging 27 points per game while the defense is allowing 14.8 points per game. 

Harris County is the No. 4 seed from Region 2. The Tigers are in the post season for the fourth straight year. Harris county has lost their last two games entering the playoffs. Quarterback Cooper Corey has thrown for 1,199 yards and 11-TDs and also run for 462 yards and 5-TDs. Meanwhile K.D. Hutchinson has rushed for 619 yards and 6-TDs. Malachi Youmans and Wilbur Ramos lead the team in total tackles with 95 and 92 respectively. In their six wins, Harris County is averaging 27.6 points per game but in their four losses they are only averaging 11.5 points. Harris County is going up against a pretty stingy defense. We don’t think Creekside will blow out Harris County, but we do think they have enough offense to get the victory. Creekside by 14.

The Skinny

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes are the No. 2 Seed from Region 7 and are in the post season for the ninth consecutive season. During that stretch, the Purple Hurricanes have won two state titles. Cartersville had their regular season winning streak snapped in early in October, but have since bounced back to win four straight games. Cartersville is led by quarterbacks Stratton Tripp and Carlos del Rio Wilson. The two have combined to pass for 1,951 yards and 18-TDs. Running back Quante’ Jennings has rushed for 611 yards and 13-TDs. Sam Phillips ( 51 receptions, 656 yards, 5-TDs) and Devonta Ross (27 receptions, 619 yards, 5-TDs) are the team’s leading receivers. Safety Evan Slocum leads the team in total tackles while Sam Philips has intercepted 4 passes this season. The Cartersville secondary has intercepted 13 passes. The Canes are averaging 36.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.2

The Maynard Jackson Jaguars are the No. 3 Seed from Region 6. The Jaguars are in the post season for the fifth time in seven years. Quarterback Raveon Moore leads the team in passing and rushing with 937 yards through the air  and 10-TDs and 502 rushing yards and 5-TDs on the ground. Jeremiah Rowe leads the team with 15 receptions and 419 yards. Maynard Jackson has won their last three games entering the post season. They are averaging 17.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 24.4 points. Cartersville should have too many horses this week for Maynard Jackson to keep pace. We like the Canes by five touchdowns.

The Skinny

The St. Pius Lions are the Region Champions from Region 5. The Lions have only missed the post season one time since 2002. The Lions enter the post season on a six-game winning streak. Their only loss was a three-point setback to Westminster back in early October. The Lions are averaging 34.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.7 points per game. St. Pius has defeated five playoff teams this season.  

The Loganville Red Devils are the No. 4 seed from Region 8. The Red Devils are in the post season for the fifth time in six years. Quarterback Tanner Greene has thrown for 1,486 yards and 9-TDs. Brandon Thornton leads the defense with 97 total tackles. The Red Devils defense has forced 14 turnovers this season. Loganville has won three of their last four games. They have defeated one playoff team this season. We expect for St. Pius and their run heavy attack to be more than enough to get by Loganville. Lions by 24. 

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Class 6A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 4 of 4

Posted on November 24, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. Next up is Class 6A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Richmond Hill – Lakeside-Evans, Westlake – Houston County, Dacula – Alexander, and Allatoona-Johns Creek . 

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 Richmond Hill Wildcats are the No. 2 seed in Region 2. It is the seventh trip to the postseason in the past nine years. The Wildcats looked to be well on their way to another region title until they were upset by Glynn Academy in early November. Nevertheless, the Wildcats have defeated five playoff teams this season. Running back Ashaud Roberson has rushed for 1,407 yards and 15-TDs. Quarterback Tyler Coleman has thrown for 1,423 yards and 11-TDs. John Mastrorilli leads the team in total tackles with 67 while Nathan Vickers has recorded 9 sacks. The defense has recorded eight turnovers and is allowing 14.2 points per game while the offense is averaging 35.6 points per game. 

The Lakeside Evans Panthers are the No. 3 seed from Region 3. Lakeside is in the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year and have only advanced to the second round once in school history. Quarterback Gavin Wright leads the team in rushing and passing while Zalon Hawes is the team’s leading receiver. Lakeside is averaging 8.9 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.2 points per game those numbers aren’t necessarily a recipe for success in the playoffs. We like Richmond Hill be six touchdowns.

The Skinny

The Westlake Lions are the Region 4 Champions. Westlake has now qualified for the post season for the eight straight season. Westlake has won six consecutive games and have really exploded on offense over the last several weeks. Sophomore quarterback R.J. Johnson has thrown for 2,334 yards and 17-TDs. Zinah Mulbah and Corzavius Smart have combined to rush for 1,295 yards and 17-TDs. Meanwhile, receivers Dacari Collins and Leo Blackburn have combined for 72 receptions, 1,376 yards receiving and 12-TDs. Westlake is averaging 40.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.8 points per game. 

The Houston County Bears are the No. 4 seed from Region 1. The Bears are in the post season for the second consecutive season. In their previous three playoff appearances, they’ve advanced all the way to the quarterfinals. Houston County is led by running back Tyler Williams and Simeon Askew. Jayson Hodges, Hunter Rizer and Jayleem Santos lead the team in total tackles. The Bears have dropped their last three games which isn’t the trend you want coming into the playoffs. They have defeated four playoff teams this season and for what it’s worth, we believe they play in one of the toughest regions in Class 6A. We believe this game will be closer than most might anticipate. We like Westlake to win a surprisingly close game by a touchdown. 

The Skinny

The Dacula Falcons are the No. 2 seed from Region 8. Since 2004, the Falcons have only missed the postseason four times. In the previous two seasons, the Falcons have advanced all the way to the semifinals. The Falcons had won six straight games before falling to Buford last week.  The Dacula offense is powered by running back Kyle Efford. At 6’1 225, Efford is a power back and he is also a menace to opposing offenses when he lines up at linebacker. The Falcons are averaging 31.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.5 points per game. 

The Alexander Cougars are the No. 3 seed from Region 5. This is the Cougars seventh playoff appearance in eight years. Alexander has wins over three playoff teams including a big victory of region champion Carrollton. Quarterback Donovan Hoskins leads the team in rushing and passing yardage. Wesley Smith is the team’s leader in total tackles. Alexander is averaging 27.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.5 points per game. Alexander’s defense should keep this game close, but we expect Dacula to wear down Alexander and win a close game down the stretch. We like Dacula by 3.

The Skinny

The Allatoona Buccaneers are the Region 6 Champions. The Bucs have made the playoffs for 11 consecutive seasons and since the school opened have only missed the playoffs in their first two season of varsity competition. Sophomore running back Jayden Ponder has rushed for 958 yards and 5-TDs. Ty Thompson leads the team with 7 sacks while the defense has forced 23 turnovers. Allatoona has also shut out three of their opponents. The Bucs have defeated four playoff teams this season and are averaging 30 points per game while allowing a paltry 7.8 points per game.

The Johns Creek Gladiators are the No. 4 team from Region 7. The Gladiators have reached the post season for the fourth time in five years. Dylan Parr leads the team in rushing while Ethan Story, Brandon Palmer and Coln Raad are the top receivers. Defensively, Cole Nelson and Tank Pritchett lead the team in total tackles. Johns Creek has lost two of their last three games this season. The Gladiators are averaging 19.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.6 points per game. Our gut tells us that this could be a low scoring affair. We believe Allatoona is a little more potent on offense and expect them to win this one by 10. 

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