Class 6A 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. Next up is Class 6A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Rome-Habersham Central, River Ridge-Kennesaw Mountain, Alcovy-Brunswick and Lee County-Tucker.

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 Rome Wolves are the No. 2 seed from Region 5 and are in the post season for the sixth consecutive year. Rome has won five straight games and all of their losses were to teams that are in the playoffs. It looks as though quarterback Reece Fountain has taken most of the snaps lately for the Wolves. The Freshman has thrown for 680 yards and 5-TDs. Through 9 games, E.J. Lacey and freshman Shaun Nelson have combined to rush for 1, 043 yards and 5-TDs. Jay Wise still leads the team in receptions, receiving yards and receiving TDs. Through nine games, linebacker Brant Wilkinson has tallied 8 sacks. Rome is averaging 23.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.1 points per game. 

The Habersham Central Raiders are the No. 3 seed from Region 8. This marks the second time in three years that the Raiders are in the post season. The Raiders have won their last three games. Habersham Central sports two thousand-yard rushers in quarterback Joshua Picket, (1,521 yards, 21-TDs) and Jackson Cloutre, (1,101 yards, 9-TDs). Picket has also thrown for 954 yards and 9-TDs. Patrick Tedder leads the team with 109 total tackles. Austin Wood has intercepted 9…yes 9 passes on the season and the team has picked off 17 all-together. Habersham Central is averaging 30.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.7 points. The Raiders have defeated one playoff team this season. That’s something that raises our eyebrows. We like Rome by 13.

The Skinny

The River Ridge Knights are the Region 7 Champions, the first in school history. The Knights are in the playoffs for the first time since 2012 and for only the second time in school history. River Ridge also set a record for number of wins in a season. River Ridge is powered by Junior running back Amehre Morrison who’s rushed for 1,549 yards and 23-TDs this season. Quarterback Carson Lathem threw for 1,260 yards and 14-TDs. The Knights also have three really good receivers in Jackson Head, Riley Caines and Andrew “Big Play” Bingham. The Knights are averaging 33 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.4 points per game. River Ridge has defeated two playoff teams this season.  

The Kennesaw Mountain Mustangs are the No. 4 seed from Region 6 and have qualified for the post season for the first time in school history. Head Coach and Kennesaw Mountain alum Caleb Carmean has done a good job guiding his team through the season and reaching this milestone. The Mustangs have won four of their last five games after dropping their first four games. In the last two weeks, the Mustangs have put up 114 points and have given up 17.  Running back T.J. Jenkins has rushed for 1,173 yards and 13.TDs. On the season, Kennesaw Mountain is averaging 30.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 22.6 points per game. We should note that the Mustangs have not defeated a playoff team this season. We think the Knights will get a big game from Morrison. River Ridge by 27.

The Skinny

The Alcovy Tigers are the No. 2 seed from Region 3. They are making their first playoff appearance since 2013. Alcovy comes into this game winners of two of their last three. Quarterback Ashton Evans has thrown for 1,086 yards and 14-TDs while Tristan Mayweather has rushed for 465 yards and 4-TDs. Mathias Height and M.J. Stroud have combined for 54 receptions and 668 yards and 10-TDs. Alcovy beat two playoff teams this season, but did not beat any teams with a winning record. 

The Brunswick Pirates are the No. 3 seed from Region 2. It’s the third time in four years that Brunswick is in the playoffs. Brunswick has won six of their last seven games. All of their three losses came to teams that are in the playoffs. Brunswick is led by quarterback K.J. Lee whose thrown for 1,727 yards and 18-TDs. Ree Simmons has rushed for 1,030 yards and 9-TDs while Tyrease Jones and Xavier Bean have combined for 71 receptions and 1,192 yards and 15-TDs. Cameron Crump leads the defense with 73 total tackles. Brunswick is averaging 29.2 points per game while the Pirates are allowing 16.9 points per game. Brunswick has defeated four playoff teams this season. Even on the road, we believe they are more battle tested than Alcovy. We like Brunswick by 17. 

The Skinny

The Lee County Trojans are the Region 1 Champion. Lee County has made the post season nine times in eleven years, including two state title victories during that span. The Trojans are winners of their last six games and have defeated seven playoff teams this season. They are averaging 35.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.4 points per game. The defense has only allowed over 17 points once this season, and that was to Lowndes back in September. 

The Tucker Tigers are the No. 4 seed from Region 4. Since 1994, Tucker has only missed the playoffs twice. During that stretch the Tigers have also won a pair of state titles. However, this season, the Tigers seemingly limped into the playoffs, losing three of their last four and being outscored 91 to 27 in their last two games. Omari Gordon and Latavius Johnson lead the Tigers rushing attack while Isaiah Raheem and Barry Manning lead the Tigers in receiving. Tucker is averaging 21.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 24 points per game. We expect Lee County to overwhelm Tucker this week. We like the Trojans by five touchdowns. 

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Class 6A 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. Next up is Class 6A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Kell-Cambridge, Buford-Douglas County, Hughes-Northside, and Glynn Academy-Grovetown.

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 Kell Longhorns are the No. 2 Seed from Region 6 and are in the post season for the 13th consecutive season. The Longhorns enter the game winners of five of their last six games. Well has defeated two playoff teams this season and is averaging 37.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.6 points per game. In their  six wins, the Longhorns are averaging 44 points per game. In their three losses, that average drops to 25 points per game.

Then Cambridge Bears  are the No 3 seed from Region 7. The Bears looked like they might miss out on the playoffs early in the year, but were able to string together three straight wins to force a tiebreaker and ultimately earning their second playoff berth in school history. The Bears are led by running backs Phillip Michael Collins and Christian Isibor. The offense is averaging 24.5 points per game while the defense is averaging 22.5 points per game. Cambridge has defeated two playoff teams this season. Cambridge’s running backs could be enough to give Kell some heartburn, but we think Kell and David Mbadinga will wear down the Cambridge defense. We like the Longhorns by two touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Buford Wolves are the Region 8 Champions. Buford is also the defending Class 5A state champions and has qualified for the post season for each of the past 22 years. The Wolves only loss of the season came against 7A North Cobb. Since then, they’ve won eight straight games . The points for and against Buford is impressive; averaging 39.6 while allowing 6.4, but in their eight wins, those numbers get even better. They are averaging 42.8 points per game and allowing 3.7 per game during the win streak. Buford has defeated five playoff teams this season. 

The Douglas County Tigers are the 4 seed from Region 5. They find themselves in the playoffs for the third time in four years. Early on in the season, the Tigers won five straight games but lost three of their last five to end the season. Running back Kobe Harris helps pace the offense with 913 yards and 9-TDs. Receiver Justin Franklin has also caught 40 passes for 651 yards and 5-TDs. Shakai Woods leads the team in total tackles with 130 while Jonathan Jefferson and Joshua Robinson each have recorded 10 sacks on the season. Douglas County is averaging 22.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 11.2 points per game. The Tigers have defeated three playoff teams. Douglas County has a defense that could keep Buford in check, but we don’t believe they will reach their offensive average of 22.3. We like Buford by 24.

The Skinny

The Langston Hughes Panthers are the No. 2 seed from Region 4. For the Panthers it’s their first post season appearance in three years. Langston Hughes has won their last five games. The youthful Panthers are led by junior quarterback Xavier Smith who’s thrown for 1,022 yards, 13-TDs and rushed for 772 yards and 6-TDs. Antonio Martin Jr. has also added 515 yards and 7-TDs on the ground. Sophomore Gannon Weathersby leads the team in total tackles with 113 while Garrett Wilson leads the team with 8 sacks. The secondary has intercepted 9 passes on the season. The Panthers are averaging 32.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.5 points per game. 

The Northside Warner Robins Eagles are the No. 3 seed from Region 1. It is their 24th appearance in the past 25 season. Northside had an impressive win over Peach County Early in the season, but things went a little sideways midway through the year with games against extremely tough opponents in Warner Robins, Richmond Hill and Colquitt County. In their six losses, Northside is only averaging 7.8 points per game, yet in their four wins they are averaging 27.7 points per game. The Eagles will be facing another tough defense this week. We wouldn’t be surprised if they pull the upset, but we like Hughes by 2. 

The Skinny

The Glynn Academy Terrors are the Region 2 Champions. Glynn Academy has only missed the playoffs once since 2005. Glynn Academy has won their last five games including two shutouts. This season, the Terrors defeated four teams that have qualified for the post season. In their three losses, the Terrors are being outscored by an average score of 33.3 to 14 while the in their seven wins, the Terrors are outscoring opponents 29 to 6.1. The defense has also recorded two shutouts in the last three weeks. 

The Grovetown Warriors are the No. 4 seed from Region 3. They Warriors are in the post season for the fourth time in five years. The two wins this season match a program low for Grovetown. The Warriors are averaging 10.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 25.10 points per game. Grovetown is a little young this season and we believe going on the road to Brunswick, Georgia will be a little too much for them this week. We like Glynn Academy big this week, call it five touchdowns. 

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Class 6A 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 up is Class 6A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Valdosta – Lovejoy, Evans-Statesboro, Creekview-Sprayberry, and Carrollton-Winder-Barrow. 

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 Valdosta Wildcats will represent Region 1 as the No. 2 seed this Friday night. Since 1986, Valdosta has only missed the playoffs four times. The Wildcats have been up and down this season. They had won three straight games prior to last Friday’s game against Lee County. The Wildcats are averaging 24.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 18 points per game. Valdosta has a trio of talented wide receivers in Aalah Brown, Javonte Sherman and Tahj Sanders. Jacquez McGowan and Josh Hill lead the team in sacks with 9 and 8 respectively while Jaylin Alderman leads the team in total tackles. In their four wins, Valdosta is averaging 32.7 points per game. However, in their four losses they are averaging 16.5 points per game. 

The Lovejoy Wildcats are the No. 3 seed from Region 4. The Wildcats are in the post season for the tenth time in eleven years. Lovejoy started the season winning their first seven games but dropped two back-to-back games before closing out the season with a win over North Atlanta. Quentavious Scandrett is a big play wide receiver and safety for the Wildcats. Israel Nwokocha had 8 sacks through seven games. Lovejoy is averaging 24 points per game while the defense is allowing 14 points per game. Lovejoy has only allowed 20 or more points three times this season. Valdosta certainly cannot take Lovejoy lightly. We think Valdosta will be focused this week and like them by 12.

The Skinny

The Evans Knights are the Region Champions from Region 3. The Knights are in the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. Evans has leaned heavily on the run this season behind running back Jofranstar Graham (932 yards, 15-TDs), quarterback Kaleb Jackson (793 rushing yards, 8-TDs) and Joseph Hampton (547 yards, 6-TDs). Lleyton Lackey leads the team in receiving with 26 receptions for 407 yards and 9-TDs. Cortavious Catchings leads the team in total tackles. The Knights are winners of their last five games and are averaging 34.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.9 points per games.

The Statesboro Blue Devils are the No. 4 seed from Region 2. The Blue Devils are in the playoffs for the third consecutive season. Statesboro had one three state before falling to the eventual region champion, Glynn Academy . In their four wins, Statesboro is averaging 35.7 points per game while in their six losses, they are only averaging 8.1 points per game. Statesboro did not have a win against a team with a winning record this season. This game might be the closest 1 vs. 4 matchup in Class 6A. Close enough to believe the Blue Devils pull the upset. Statesboro by 4.

The Skinny

The Creekview Grizzlies are the No. 2 Seed from Region 7. The Grizzlies are in the postseason for the second time in three years. Creekview enters week one of the playoffs on a three-game win streak. The Grizzlies are averaging 19.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.1 points per game. The offense got a boost with the return of receiver Andrew Cloy in early November. In his last two games, Cloy has made the most of his opportunities with 5 receptions for 109 yards and 3-TDs. Tyler Stephens leads the way on the ground with 863 yards and 7-TDs. Yet, the hallmark for Creekview has been their defense. As a team, the Grizzlies have recorded 42.5 sacks. Sam Minozzi leads the team with 10. Meanwhile sophomore Isaac Hubert and senior Grant Anderson lead the team in tackles for loss with 13 each. 

The Sprayberry Yellow Jackets are the No. 3 Seed from Region 6. The Yellow Jackets are in the postseason for the second consecutive season. Sprayberry sandwiched a four-game win streak in between two-two game losing skids and then closed out the regular season with a big win over South Cobb. Sprayberry has a very talented running back in Damarion Owens. (He might remind Creekview of a little bit bigger version of Amehre Morrison.) Quarterback Kyle Brown has a couple of talented receivers in Fatir Muhammad and Mustafa Hefner that can stretch the field. In Sprayberry’s five wins, the defense is only allowing 9.6 points per game while in their four losses, the defense is allowing 35 points per game. Sprayberry shouldn’t worry too much about the Grizzlies scoring 35 points this week as they’ve only done that once this week. However, we aren’t sure if Sprayberry can score over 19 on Creekview’s defense. That seems to be the magic number for Creekview. We like the Grizzlies by 5.

The Skinny

The Carrollton Trojans are the Region 5 Champions and have now qualified for the playoffs in thirty of the past thirty-one season. It’s also the second consecutive region title for Carrollton. The Trojans had won five straight games before losing a one-point game to Alexander two weeks ago. Offensively they are led by James McCauley at quarterback. He has several weapons on offense including running backs Keshawn Ridley and Christian Lett and receivers Ace Williamson and Terell Carmichael. Chaz Chambliss is the defensive leader for the Trojans and is one of the best linebackers in the country. Carrollton is averaging 33.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.5. Carrollton has defeated two playoff teams this season. 

The Winder Barrow Bulldogs are the No. 4 seed from Region 8. The Bulldogs are in the playoffs for the sixth time in seven years. They have won four of their last five games. The Bulldogs will lean heavily on running back J.C. Green, who has rushed for 1,029 yards and 9-TDs. Stewart Allen and Tre Gaudlock have combined for a 43 receptions for 715 yards and 7-TDs. Chandler Maxwell has recorded a team high 97 total tackles while Omarius Smith and Jamarious Smith have combined to record 11 interceptions. The Bulldogs have not defeated any playoff teams this season. With a strong running game, Winder Barrow has a good shot, but Carrollton’s defense should be up to the task. We like the Trojans by 20.

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Class 7A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 4 of 4

Posted on November 23, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. First up is Class 7A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Newnan – Harrison, Grayson – Tift County, North Gwinnett – Cherokee, and West Forsyth – Meadowcreek . 

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 Newnan Cougars are the No. 2 seed from Region 2. They have only missed the playoffs twice in the last 18 years. Newnan started the season 9-0 before dropping the final game by one to East Coweta. Newnan quarterback Michael Maginnis has thrown for 2,210 yards and 21-TDs. Josh Harris leads the team with 43 receptions for 744 yards and 6-TDs while Bryson Moss and Aubrey Carter have combined for 1,140 yards and 23-TDs. Steven Carter leads the team with 59 total tackles. Newnan has sacked opposing quarterbacks 22 times and intercepted 9 passes. The Cougars are averaging 36.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.9. 

The Harrison Hoyas are the No 3 seed from Region 3 and are making their fifth consecutive playoff appearance. The Hoyas won the Class 6A state title but were reclassified last season and found it tough sledding the first half of the season. Harrison has bounced back to win three of their last four games. On the season Harrison is averaging 21 points per game and allowing 18.7. However, in their last four games, they are averaging 30.2 points per game and allowing16.5. Harrison seems to have figured some things out in the second half of the season, but we expect Newnan to have too much offensively. We like the Cougars by 16. 

The Skinny

The Grayson Rams are the Region Champion for Region 4 and are making their 14th playoff appearance in 15 years. Grayson went through the regular season undefeated and outside of a scare from Mill Creek, were rarely challenged on the scoreboard. Grayson was already a threat to make a deep post season run, but then they were blessed to land transfer Jake Garcia to add to the depth at quarterback. Garcia and De’yon Cannon have combined to throw for 1,506 yards, and 14-TDs. Running back Phil Mafah is a tough customer. He’s rushed for 1,080 yards and 18-TDs and also caught 9 passes for 169 yards and 2-TDs. Jamal Haynes and Jaden Smith are the team’s leading receivers and have combined for 64 receptions, 1,162 yards and 12-TDs. Grady Bryant leads the team in total tackles with 61. Grayson has sacked opposing quarterbacks 35.5 times and have intercepted 13 balls. The Rams are averaging 40.4 points per game while allowing 10.2.

The Tift County Blue Devils are the No. 4 seed from Region 1 and are in the post season for the fourth time in six years. Tift enters the game losing their last three and is averaging 17.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 21 points per game. Tyler Parker leads the team in receiving while Chrishon Stephens leads the team in rushing. Perhaps the most imposing player for the Blue Devils is Tyre West. The junior defensive lineman is as physical as they come and leads the team with 8 sacks. Even with a player of West’s caliber, the Blue Devils have a tough row to hoe. We like Grayson by 4 touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The North Gwinnett Bulldogs are the No. 2 seed from Region 8 and are in the playoffs for the 17th time in 19 seasons. North Gwinnett has been up and down this season but enter this game winning four of their last five. Seth Anderson and Bobby Ezzard lead the team in receiving while Marcus McFarlane is the team’s leading rusher. Through nine games, Kemar Brown led the team in total tackles while Kayden McDonald led the team in tackles for loss with 27 in that same stretch. McDonald and Justin Watson were tied with 11 sacks each through nine games. Jordan Hancock helps anchor the secondary while Barrett Carter will draw a lot of attention at linebacker. The Bulldogs are averaging 27.4 points per game while allowing 11.7.

The Cherokee Warriors are the No. 3 seed from Region 5 and are in the playoffs for the fifth time in seven years. The Warriors started the season red-hot winning their first six games including a win that halted the state’s longest win streak over Cartersville back in late September. Quarterback A.J. Swann has thrown for 2,194 yards and 21 TDs. He has a trio of talented receivers in Adarrius Harshaw (47 receptions, 814 yards, 7-TDs), Brady Bocherer (37 receptions -529 yards, 7-TDs) and Hayden Shockley (27 receptions, 377 yards, 4-TDs). Keith Adams Jr. is one of the top running backs in the state with 1,313 yards and 14-TDs. He runs behind a very talented offensive line including future D-1 linemen in Nasson Simmons and Ryan Chandley along with an unsung hero in Derrick Battle. Braesen Parker leads the defense with 126 total tackles. Cherokee is averaging 28.9 points per game while allowing 17.1. North Gwinnett should be favored in this game, but we believe the Warriors have enough talent on offense to hang with the Bulldogs and pull the upset this week. Cherokee by 2.

The Skinny

The West Forsyth Wolverines are the Region Champions from Region 6 and are making their 10th playoff appearance in the last 11 years. West enters the game winners on their last five games and are averaging 24.8 points per game while allowing 17.7 points per game. Standouts on offense for the Wolverines include running back Daba Fofana and tight end Oscar Delp. In six games, Fofana had rushed for 708 yards and 8-TDs while Delp has 43 catches for 730 yards and 9-TDs through 9 games. Kobe Haynes leads the team in total tackles with 84 while Drew Southern leads the team in solo tackles with 53. The Wolverines have intercepted 13 passes on the season. 

The Meadowcreek Mustangs are the No. 4 seed from Region 7 and are in the post season for only the second time in school history. Meadowcreek enters the game dropping three of their last four games on the season. They are averaging 25.5 points per game, but allowing 36.2 points. If West Forsyth is at full strength, we expect them to win this game handily. Even if they are not, we still like the Wolverines by 20.

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Class 7A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 3 of 4

Posted on November 23, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. First up is Class 7A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Roswell – Mill Creek, Norcross – South Forsyth, Walton – McEachern, and Colquitt County – Brookwood.

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 Roswell Hornets are the No. 2 seed from Region 5 and are in the post season for the seventh consecutive year. The Hornets started off the season red hot, but then dropped back-to-back games to North Fulton rivals before getting back on track last week. Junior quarterback Robbie Roper has had a big year for Roswell throwing for 1,859 yards and 19-TDs. Malik Willis has been his go to receiver with 43 receptions for 677 yards and 5-TDs. Yet Michael Fitzgerald ( 23 receptions, 470 yards, 7-TDs) and Shaun Spence (25 receptions, 387 yards, 5-TDs) have also had big seasons. Ryan Stephens and Ryan Hill have combined for 1,265 yards rushing and 14-TDs on the ground. Roswell is averaging 30.6 points per game while allowing 17.7.

The Mill Creek Hawks are the No. 3 seed from Region-8 and are in the post season for the seventh consecutive year. After a brutal mid-season schedule, the Hawks enter the game winners of three of their last four. Joshua Battle leads Mill Creek in rushing with 594 yards and 4-TDs on the season. The Hawks have also used a pair of quarterbacks at times in senior MJ Patterson and sophomore Hayden Clark. Emon Hill helps anchor the secondary and should be a good matchup with the Roswell passing attack. Roswell certainly has the offensive firepower to win this game, but we think Mill Creek might be a little more battle tested. Expect this game to come down to the wire. We like Roswell to edge Mill Creek by a field goal.

The Skinny

The Norcross Blue Devils are the Region 7 Champions. This will be the 15th post season appearance in 16 years for Norcross. The Blue Devils also finished off their first undefeated regular season since 2016. Both are impressive feats. Senior quarterback Mason Kaplan has thrown for 1,675 yards and 19-TDs, while a trio of running backs in Kaleb Jackson, Jahni Clarke and Michael Porter have rushed for 1,460 yards and 21-TDs. Trey Goodman leads the Norcross receiving unit with 34 receptions for 640 yards and 10-TDs. Linebacker Zakye Barker leads the team with 94 total tackles and 24 tackles for loss and 6 sacks. Norcross has forced 19 turnovers and is averaging 41.3 points per game (best in school history), while allowing only 14.1.

The South Forsyth War Eagles are the No. 4 seed from Region 6. They are in the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season. After starting the season 4-0, South dropped their next three games before rebounding two weeks ago against North Forsyth in a big way. Quarterback Kyle Durham has thrown for 1,996 yards and 22-TDs. Mitch Thompson (34 receptions, 865 yards, 10-TDs) and tight end Devin McGlockton (38 receptions, 607 yards, 8-TDs) are the team’s leading receivers. The South Forsyth secondary has intercepted 13 passes on the season led by the aforementioned Thompson. South is averaging a healthy 40 points per game on offense while allowing 26.1. This could turn into a shootout unless Norcross can really get pressure on Durham. With all that said, we like the Blue Devils this week by 16. 

The Skinny

The Walton Raiders are the No. 2 seed from Region 3 and are in the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season and have only missed the playoffs four times in the last 22 years. Walton has won three out of their last five, but the game that stands out most is the loss in the final week of the season to Marietta. Zak Rozsman and freshmen Jeremy Hecklinski have combined to throw for 2,307 yards and 14-TDs. Braylen Stokes leads the team in rushing with 612 yards and 9-TDs and Stone McKnight leads the team in receiving with 45 receptions for 782 yards and 6-TDs. Angelo Brown Jr. is tops on the team with 80 total tackles on a defense that has forced 22 turnovers. Walton is averaging 25.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 24.2 points per game this season. 

The McEachern Indians are the No. 3 seed from Region 2. The Indians are making their 12th consecutive playoff appearance. This is the first time McEachern has finished the regular season with a sub .500 record since 2007. McEachern is led by junior quarterback Bryce Archie, who has thrown for 1,037 yards and 8-TDs. Makari Bodiford and Mekhi Crawley have combined for 693 rushing yards and 11-TDs. McEachern is averaging 22.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 27.2 per game. While admittedly McEachern is struggling, we believe this is a game that they can do just enough to pull a minor upset. We like the Indians by 6.

The Skinny

The Colquitt County Packers are the Region 1 Champions and are in the post season for the 12th consecutive season. During that stretch, only once have they been eliminated as early as the second round. Colquitt County is undefeated and has dominated just about everyone they’ve faced this season. The Packers closest game was a 24-10 victory over Valdosta back in late September. Colquitt has a balanced attack on offense and averages 187 yards rushing and 187 passing per game. Xavier Williams has thrown for 1,085 yards and 11-TDs. He also leads the team in rushing with 424 yards and 5-TDs. Lemeke Brockington (17 receptions, 352 yards, 5-TDs) and Dijmon Wheeler (22 receptions, 274 yards, 8-TDs) lead the Hogs in receiving. Pershaun Fann leads the team in total tackles with 48. Colquitt has forced 9 turnovers this season. The offense is averaging 45.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.5 and has posted two shutouts.

The Brookwood Broncos are the No. 4 seed from Region 4. Brookwood is in the postseason for the fifth straight season. Brookwood started the season with six straight wins before suffering back-to-back losses. The Broncos have bounced back with two big wins to qualify for the post season. Quarterback Dylan Lonergan has thrown for 2,038 yards and 20-TDs. Alex Diggs and Jumal Prothro have combined for 867 yards and 13-TDs. The Broncos have a very formidable receiving group led by Denylon Morrissette (48 receptions for 690 yards, 7-TDs) and Sam Mbake (48 receptions, 443 yards, 5-TDs.)  Brookwood is averaging 35.2 points per game while allowing 30.8. Colquitt County probably has the worst draw of a No. 1 seed. If Brookwood quarterback Dylan Lonergran is at 100%, this could be an upset special. Expect this one to be nip and tuck, but we will go with the Packers by 5.

 

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Class 7A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 2 of 4

Posted on November 23, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. First up is Class 7A. This will be a four part series. This preview features games between Denmark – Discovery, Collins Hill – Alpharetta, Parkview – Camden County, and East Coweta – Marietta. 

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 Denmark Danes are the No. 2 seed from Region 6 and are in the playoffs for the second time in only three years of varsity competition. The Danes made the jump from Class 4A to 7A this year. Denmark is averaging 21.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.8 points per game. They are led by quarterback Aaron McLaughlin. The N.C. State commit has a big arm and at 225lbs is tough to bring down in the backfield.

The Discovery Titans are in the playoffs for the first time in school history. They are the No. 3 seed from Region 7. Their four wins on the year is a program best. The newest Gwinnet County school is in their fifth year of varsity competition. Discovery does most of their damage on the ground behind running back Richard Seay who has 1,048 yards and 9-TDs on the season. Defensively, Jibran Hawkins leads the team with 10 sacks. The Titans have forced 11 turnovers. On the season, Discovery is averaging 17.9 points per game while the defense is allowing 31.6 points per game. If Discovery can use ball control on offense to keep Denmark and McLaughlin on the sidelines, we like their chances. We think the Danes quarterback will be a little too much for Discovery this week. Denmark by 15. 

The Skinny

The Collins Hill Eagles are the No. 1 seed from Region 8 and are in the postseason for the fourth consecutive season. Entering the playoffs, the Eagles have won four straight and during that stretch, they are averaging 38.5 points per game while allowing 13 points per game. Collins Hill is led by a pair of highly rated juniors in quarterback Sam Horn (2,550 yards, 27-TDs) and receiver Travis Hunter (91 receptions, 1,219 yards, 17-TDs.) Hunter has also intercepted four passes in the secondary. James Smith leads the defense with 11 sacks. Collins Hill has forced 20 turnovers on the season. 

The Alpharetta Raiders are in the playoffs for the tenth time in the last eleven years. The Raiders are the No 4 seed from Region 5.  Alpharetta has been up and down this year. They beat a top-10 team in Roswell, but then dropped the last game of the season to a then winless Etowah team. They are averaging 22 points per game on offense and allowing 20.7 points per game. These two teams did meet earlier this season with Collins Hill winning by 8. Alpharetta is a dangerous team especially defensively with Jaden Slocum anchoring the secondary. However, we think the Eagles are finding their stride. We like Collins Hill by two touchdowns this week.

The Skinny

The Parkview Panthers are the No. 2 seed from Region 4 and are in the post season for the sixth consecutive season. Parkview has lost two of their last three games after reeling off four straight wins. Through the first 8 games of the season, the Panthers have been led by the running back duo of Cody Brown (807 yards, 7-TDs) and Tyler Curtis (614 yards, 10-TDs). Jared Brown has emerged as the team’s leading receiver with 32 receptions, 616 yards and 8-TDs through eight games. Parkview is averaging 28.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 23.1 points.

The Camden County Wildcats are the No. 3 seed from Region 1 and are in the playoffs for the third consecutive season. Junior quarterback Joshua Brown has thrown for 1,338 yards and 13-TDs. His top receivers are sophomore Deonte’ Cole (40 receptions, 663 yards, 7-TDs) and senior Shawn Hardy (29 receptions, 446 yards, 3-TDs). Junior linebacker Jadin Jones leads the team with 72 total tackles while Hudson Tucker has 14 sacks on the season. Both Parkview and Camden County are storied programs and no strangers to success in the playoffs. We give the nod to Parkview, as Camden has to travel a long way from the friendly confines of St. Mary’s down in Southeast Georgia. We like the Panthers by 13.

The Skinny

The East Coweta Indians are the Region Champions from Region 2. The Indians are no strangers to the post season as this will be their 23rd appearance in 24 years. East Coweta enters the game winners of their last six games. The Indians are led by running back Jayden Bolton who now stands at 1,256 yards and 13-TDs. Amariyon Moss leads the team in receiving with 39 catches for 625 yards and 8-TDs. East Coweta is averaging 33.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.3 points per game. The Indians only loss this season was to Top-10 ranked Norcross back in September. 

The Marietta Blue Devils are the Class 7-A defending State Champions. This season, the Blue Devils are the No. 4 team from Region 3. Last week, they got a big win over Walton to qualify for the playoffs. Before that game, Marietta had dropped their previous three matchups. The Blue Devils are led by Tyler Hughes at quarterback who has thrown for 2,349 yards and 24-TDs. Hughes also leads the team in rushing with 483 yards and 8-TDs. Marietta is averaging a healthy 30 points per game but allowing 36.5 points per game. Marietta’s air raid offense gives them a punchers chance, but we like East Coweta by two touchdowns this week.

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Class 7A 2020 GHSA Playoff Previews – Part 1 of 4

Posted on November 23, 2020 by admin

We are previewing all of the 2020 GHSA playoff games. First up is Class 7A. This will be a four-part series. This preview features games between Lowndes – Newton, North Cobb – Pebblebrook, Archer – Gainesville and Milton – Peachtree Ridge.

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 Lowndes Vikings have only missed the playoffs twice since 1996. During that stretch they’ve won 4 State Titles. The Vikings seemed to be an early favorite to win the title, but after a two-week layoff, they have not been as dominant. Nevertheless, the Vikings are averaging 30.3 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing a respectable 19 points per game. They are the No. 2 seed from Region 1. Offensively they are led by dual threat quarterback Jacurri Brown (1076 yards passing, 12-TDs and 770 yards rushing 12-TDs). Justin Lee has added 463 yards rushing and 5-TDs while Dominique Marshall leads the team in receiving with 553 yards and 7-TDs. Jalon Baker leads the team in total tackles with 51 while Thomas Davis leads the team in tackles for loss with 8.5. The Vikings have intercepted 10 passes on the season.

The Newton Rams are the No. 3 Seed from Region 4. The Rams are in the playoffs for the 9th consecutive season. The last four seasons they have not made it out of the first round. Newton is averaging 12.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.3 points per game. In their last three games  they are averaging 5.6 points per game while allowing 26. That’s not the trend you want to see; even against a Lowndes team that is struggling. We like the Vikings by three touchdowns on Friday night.

The Skinny

The North Cobb Warriors are making their ninth playoff appearance in ten years. The Warriors are the No. 1 seed from Region 3. They enter the game on a five-game win streak and are averaging 30.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.8 points per game. They are led by sophomore quarterback Malachi Singleton who has drawn comparisons by some to another great Cobb quarterback named Justin Fields. During their 5-game win streak, they are averaging 35.6 points per game while allowing 17.6 during that same stretch.

The Pebblebrook Falcons are making their fourth playoff appearance in the last five years. They started the season winning five of their first six but have faltered down the stretch losing three of their last four. The Falcons are averaging 26 points per game while allowing 20.7. Pebblebrook uses a spread offense attack with quarterback Craig Adams Jr. taking the snaps. He has a big arm and can beat you running as well. The Falcons should keep this game interesting for three quarters, but we like North Cobb to pull away late in this battle of Cobb County Schools. Warriors by 15.

The Skinny

The Archer Tigers are in the playoffs for the eighth consecutive season. Only twice in school history have they been eliminated in the first round. The Tigers had reeled off six straight wins before falling to Norcross last week. Archer has a very talented secondary highlighted by Edwin Mangual, Jackson McCrary and Caleb Wooden. In their six wins they are averaging 46.5 points per game and allowing 7. In their four losses, they are averaging 12.2 points per game and allowing 33.5. All of their losses were to teams that were ranked at one point in the season.

The Gainesville Red Elephants are in the playoffs for the 21st consecutive season. Gainesville is the third seed from Region 6 and comes into the game losing two of their last three. They are led up front by Cedrick Nicely. The offensive linemen is a real road grader. Quarterback Gionni Williams is a dual threat so the Archer linebackers will have to check to contain him. The Red Elephants are averaging 29.4 points per game and allowing 19.5 points. We believe Archer’s schedule has been a little tougher on the season and like the Tigers to prevail this week by two touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Milton Eagles are the No. 1 seed from Region 5 and enter this game undefeated. (They did drop a game to Cedar Grove, but the result was reversed due to a forfeit by Cedar Grove.) This is their ninth playoff appearance in ten years. The Eagles are averaging 31.2 points per game and allowing 13.2. They are led by running back Jordan McDonald on offense who possesses a combination of power and speed. The junior has rushed for 1,044 yards and 20-TDs. Defensively, most of the attention is garnered by sophomore lineman L.T. Overton who leads the team with 14 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss. 

The Peachtree Ridge Lions are the No. 4 seed from Region 8 and are in the playoffs for the first time since 2017. The Lions enter the game having dropped four of their last five contests. Peachtree Ridge is averaging 19.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 29.6 points per game. The Lions will need to make this game a defensive struggle. We don’t believe they can match Milton in a shootout. However, we believe Milton is too deep this year. We like the Eagles by four touchdowns. 

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Georgia High School Football Poll – Week 12

Posted on November 22, 2020 by admin

Despite all of the obstacles that teams faced week in and week out, we have made it to the end of the 2020 high school football season in Georgia. A big thank you to all of the teams and communities for allowing us to get this far. Our final regular season Georgia High School Football poll is listed below.

Best of luck to all of the teams competing in the state tournament over the upcoming weeks!

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

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Week 12 – Eight Greats Around the State (Georgia High School Football Previews) – Part 2

Posted on November 19, 2020 by admin

We have made it to the final week of the Georgia High School Football regular season schedule. All of the games that we are previewing this week in our Eight Greats Across the State will feature teams competing for a region title. Without any further ado, here is Part 2 of our Georgia High School Football previews.

First up, the Cherokee Warriors find themselves in a position to win a region title for the first time since 2002. This game features two of the better junior running backs in the state. Will it be Cherokee and Keith Adams Jr. asserting their will or will Jordan McDonald and the Milton Eagles run wild again this week? Next up, the Buford Wolves will look to dethrone the reigning Region 8-6A champions on Friday night. Which rushing attack will have the upper hand in this matchup?

The East Coweta Indians and Newnan Cougars have been on a crash course all season. It’s been 19 years since the Indians have won a region title while Newnan will be playing for their first region title in 11 years. Finally, the Wesleyan Wolves will host Mt. Vernon Presbyterian on Friday night. Wesleyan has never lost to Mt. Vernon, but can the Wolves slow down the Mustangs pass happy 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 Cherokee Warriors can claim their first region title since 2002 with a win on Friday night against Milton. The Warriors have been led by athree-headed monster on offense led by quarterback A.J. Swann (1,757 yards, 18-TDs), running back Keith Adams, Jr. (1,246 yards, 14-TDs), and receiver Adarrius Harshaw, (658 yards and 6-TDs). Brady Bocherer and Hayden Shockley have also combined for 52 receptions for 718 yards and 10-TDs. The Warriors have forced 17 turnovers this season and are allowing 14.4 points per game. Braesen Parker has been all over the field with a team high 112 total tackles. 

The Milton Eagles are looking for their third consecutive region title this Friday night if they can win on the road. Last week, Jordan McDonald led the way with 204 yards on just 13 carries and also scored a game high 4-TDs. The junior running back is now up to 785 yards and 16-TDs on the season. Quarterback Devin Farrell has completed 65.8% of his passes for 1,418 yards and 12-TDs and has only thrown one interception this season. Freshmen Debron Gattling and junior Adam Freas lead the team in receiving with a combined 35 receptions for 508 yards and 3-TDs. Twelve different receivers have caught passes for the Eagles this season. Milton is allowing 11.2 points per game. Sophomore sensation L.T. Overton has a team high 24.5 tackles for loss on the season to go along with 12 sacks. This should be a physical contest with two well coached, athletic teams. We like Cherokee to keep it close, but believe that Milton and Overton will do just enough to slow down the Warriors. Milton by 4.

The Skinny

The Buford Wolves have won seven consecutive games since their week-1 loss to North Cobb. During that stretch, the Wolves defense has shutout three opponents and is only allowing 4.2 points per game. As a matter of fact, the Wolves have only allowed 58 points all season. Meanwhile, the offense is averaging 40.2 points per game for the season.

The Dacula Falcons had to hold off Central Gwinett’s upset bid last week for a chance to play for their 5th consecutive region title. The Falcons themselves are winners of their last six games. Their two losses both comae at the hands of 7A programs. The offense has been powered by running back Kyle Efford this season. Dacula is averaging 35.7 points per game while the defense is allowing 18.7 points per game. Efford is a great talent for the Falcons, but Buford has a few more weapons. We like the Wolves by 10.

The Skinny

The East Coweta Indians are looking for their first region title since 2001. The Indians have reeled off 5 consecutive wins including an overtime victory over Collins Hill earlier this season. Running back Jayden Bolton leads the team with 1,110 yards and 12-TDs while Trey Bowles has rushed for 497 yards and 8-TDs. Amariyon Moss is the leading receiver with 33 receptions for 569 yards and 7-TDs. The Indians area averaging 34.5 points per game while allowing 19.6 points on defense. Chase Lewis leads the team in total tackles (91) and tackles for loss (13). East Coweta has recorded 19.5 sacks on the season.

The Newnan Cougars can win their first region title since 2009 with a win this Friday night. That was also the last time the Cougars were 9-0.  If East Coweta leans a little more to the run, the Newnan Cougars are the converse, as they lean a little more on the passing game. Quarterback Michael Maginnis has thrown for 1,895 tards and 18-TDs with only one interception. Josh Harris (35 receptions, 649 yards, 4-TDs) and Reid Brass (21 receptions, 464 yards, 8-TDs) lead the Cougars in receiving. Meanwhile it has been Bryson Moss (607 yards, 15-TDs) and Aubrey Carter (448 yards, 7-TDs) leading the way for the rushing attack. The Cougars are averaging 38 points per game and allowing 15.7 points per game. Newnan has been red hot, but we like East Coweta at home this week. Indians by 4.

The Skinny

The Wesleyan Wolves will be looking for their first region title in 11 years. The Wolves are winners of their last three games with their only two losses coming to two of the top teams in Class A-Private. Quarterback Ryan Rose has thrown for 1,532 yards and 9-TDs. His top receiver this season has been Wyatt Hodges (33 receptions, 565 yards, 1-TD) while junior running back Griffin Caldwell has rushed for 906 yards and 10-TDs. J.D. Chipman leads the team in total tackles while Tanner Bivins leads the team in tackles for loss with 16. 

The Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Mustangs are also winners of their last three games. The Mustangs have never won a region title in program history, but this season they hope to change their fortunes. Blake Kytle is the leading passer in Class A with 2,219 yards passing and 21-TDs. His top receiver is Andrew Douglas, who’s caught 49 passes for 952 yards and 8-TDs. In their last three games, Mt. Vernon Presbyterian is averaging 51.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 5.6 points in that same stretch. Mt. Vernon has never beaten Wesleyan, but with Kytle having such a great season, we believe this just might be the year. We like Mt. Vernon in an upset on the road. Mustangs by 7.

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Week 12 – Eight Greats Around the State (Georgia High School Football Previews) – Part 1

Posted on November 18, 2020 by admin

We have made it to the final week of the Georgia High School Football regular season schedule. All of the games that we are previewing this week in our Eight Greats Across the State will feature teams competing for a region title. Without any further ado, here is Part 1 of our Georgia High School Football previews.

First up, St. Pius and Decatur will tangle in Atlanta. Can the youth of Decatur slow down the St. Pius Rushing attack and bring home the first Region title in 16 years? Next up in Dalton, the Christian Heritage Lions will host the North Cobb Christian Eagles. Both teams will be vying for their first region title in school history. Can the Lions slow down the Eagles Wing-T attack?

Next, in Montezuma, the Macon County Bulldogs host the red hot Chattahoochee County Panthers. The Panthers are looking for their first region title in school history, while the Bulldogs are seeking their first region title in four years. Finally, the Appling County Pirates host the Pierce County Bears. This will be the third time these two teams will meet with region supremacy on the line. Pierce County has gotten the best of Appling the last two years. Is this the year that the tide turns for the Pirates?

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 St. Pius Lions are in search of their 8th region title in 12 years. The only setback for Pius this season was a three-point loss to Westminster. The Lions are averaging 34.8 points per game this season while the defense is allowing 14.3 points per game. There’s not a ton flashy about St. Pius, but they do play with a blue-collar mentality. Since starting region play, the Lions have not allowed an opponent more than 18 points in a single game and are surrendering 11.4 points per game.

 The Decatur Bulldogs have not gotten off to a start like this since 2003 and have not won a region title since 2004. Yet, these Bulldogs look like they have different intentions come Friday night. Decatur is averaging 32.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 11 points per game. The Bulldogs are statistically led by a few talented underclassmen, sophomore quarterback Harrison Hannah (675 yards, 9-TDs), sophomore running back Marquis Hood (455 yards, 6-TDs) and junior wide receiver Mehki Lloyd (8 receptions, 253 yards, 3-TDs.) Hood is also the team’s leader in sacks with 5, while senior safety Sam Mahany has intercepted seven passes on the season. Decatur has not beaten St. Pius since 1993. We think this will be the closest they’ve been, but we still like Pius by a touchdown. 

The Skinny

The Christian Heritage Lions have won their last six games and are on the cusp of claiming their first region title. The Lions are led on offense by a trio of juniors and one senior. Junior quarterback Christian Thomas has thrown for 1,160 yards and 11-TDs. Meanwhile, juniors Solomon Locke and Gage Leonard have combined for 1,155 yards and 14-TDs and senior receiver Evan Lester has caught 28 passes for 603 yards and 5-TDs. Linebacker Ben Hermann has is tops on the team with 77 total tackles. The Lions are allowing 14.8 points per game on the season.

The North Cobb Christian Eagles have won their last three games, and their opponent this week, they are looking for the first region title in school history. The Eagles are averaging 33.6 points per game in the Wing-T offense. But North Cobb Christian is not a one-trick pony in this offense. They’ve shown this season that their running backs are excellent receivers as well. Meanwhile, the defense is allowing 15.8 points per game. We thought the long road trip might have some toll on North Cobb Christian, but they weren’t impacted by a long trip to Rome a few weeks ago. We believe North Cobb gets the victory on the road. Eagles by 3.

The Skinny

The Macon County Bulldogs are looking for their first region title since 2016, when they won the Class A state title. The Bulldogs enter the game winners of four straight, with their only blemish coming at the hands of Class AA Toombs County by a field goal. Quarterback Jakalen Williams has thrown for 1,130 yards and 15-TDs while Davion Clark and Branden Cochran have combined for 985 yards and 17-TDs on the ground. Meanwhile, Jaden Hayes and Marcus Sanders have combined for 39 receptions for 785 yards and 12-TDs. Shelquavius Byse and Kenwan Felton are tops on the team in total tackles. Felton also leads the team in sacks with 8. 

The Chattahoochee County Panthers are 8-0 for the first time in school history. They are also in search of their first region title in the schools 14-year history. Save for a 6-0 shutout victory over Marion County, the Panthers have not been challenged as of late. Chattahoochee County is averaging 32 points per game while the defense is allowing 5.7 points per game with three shutouts. That’s impressive no matter what classification that you play in. But we believe the Bulldogs are a little more talented this season and we like the fact that their playing at home. That should be enough to give Macon County a slight edge. Bulldogs by 5.

The Skinny

The Appling County Pirates will be looking for their first region title since 2013 with a victory on Friday night. The last two seasons, the Pirates have come up short against Pierce County. Appling County is averaging 44.4 points per game on offense while the defense is only allowing 10.5 points per game. The Pirates defense has been flying all over the field all season and expect more of that attacking style defense. Darris Smith has been tough to block for most teams all season. Expect to see him try to wreak havoc in the Pierce County backfield.

The Pierce County Bears are in search of their third consecutive region title. Pierce is averaging 34.3 points per game while the defense is allowing a paltry 7.8 points. Quarterback Jermain Brewton is completing just under 70% of his passes for 1,051 yards and 17-TDs. Sophomore running back D.J. Bell has rushed for 850 yards and 8-TDs. Spencer Woodcock leads the defense in total tackles while Seth Foster leads the team in tackles for loss, with 22. The Bears have recorded 31 sacks and 8 interceptions. We expect both defenses to shine this week, but we believe the third time is a charm for Appling. We like the Pirates by 2.

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