GHSA 6A Semifinal Football Previews

Posted on December 1, 2019 by admin

The playoff field continues to be whittled down. Up next, we preview the 6A GHSA Football semifinals. Similar to Class 7A, there are three No. 1 seeds and one No. 2 seed that make up the field for the semifinals. There are two teams from Region 6-6A (Harrison and Allatoona), still alive and if they both win, we would have an All Cobb County final. Dacula and Richmond Hill are looking to get to the finals for the first time in school history. The matchups this week are Dacula-Harrison and Richmond Hill-Allatoona. Best of luck to all teams competing this weekend. As always, please let us know if there are any corrections. Thanks as always for reading and sharing!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Dacula Falcons have advanced to the semifinals for the second consecutive season and for the fifth time in school history. The Falcons are also 13-0 for the first time in program history. Running Back Kaleb Edwards and quarterback Jarrett Jenkins helped spearhead the victory for the Falcons. Dacula’s offense has been on a roll in the playoffs as they are averaging 49 points per game while the defense is allowing 19.6 points per game. Since September 20th, the Flacons have not scored less than 34 points in a game. A win this week would put the Falcons into the finals for the first time in school history.

 

The Harrison Hoyas are in the semifinals for the first time since 2000. The Hoyas are also 13-0 for the first time in program history. Harrison’s David Roberts rushed for two-TDs while Gavin Hall tossed a touchdown to Jay Ziglor to help lead the way for the Hoyas last week. The 28-point output was the lowest point production for the offense since early October. In the playoffs, Harrison is averaging 41.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 17 points per game. A win this week would put the Hoyas in the finals for the first time since 2000. Harrison has been our No.1 ranked team for several weeks now, but we believe Dacula is clicking on all cylinders, we like the Falcons this week by 6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Richmond Hill Wildcats are in the semifinals for the first time in school history. The Wildcats have also won 9 games for only the third time in school history. They have now won 8 games in a row. Jalen Rouse had 84 yards rushing to pace the Wildcats and has now rushed for 1,754 yards and 23-TDs on the year. Britton Williams added three field goals to help pace Richmond Hill in their win over Valdosta. In three playoff games, Richmond Hill is averaging 30.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 20 points per game. A win this week will put the Wildcats in the finals for the first time in school history.

 

Allatoona advanced to the semifinals for the first time since 2015 and the third time in school history. The Bucs have won six games in a row and in the process, recorded their second shutout of the season. Last week, quarterback Dante Marshall’s only completion went for a touchdown to Asante Das. Marcus Taylor, Dequori Garrett and Alex Wilson led the way on the ground for Allatoona as the trio combined for 235 yards and 2-TDs. Allatoona is averaging 32 points per game in the playoffs while the defense is allowing 6.6 points per game. A win this week will put Allatoona into the finals for the first time since 2015. The long road trip may take its toll on the Allatoona offense, but we like the Bucs defense. Allatoona by 3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA 7A Semifinal Football Previews

Posted on December 1, 2019 by admin

The playoff field continues to be whittled down. Today we preview the 7A GHSA Football semifinals. Three No. 1 seeds and one No. 2 seed make up the field for the semifinals. There are also two Gwinnett County schools on opposite sides of the bracket, meaning, we could potentially have an all Gwinnett County championship. But we are sure that south Georgia power, Lowndes and Cobb County’s Marietta Blue Devils will have something to say about that. Best of luck to all teams competing this weekend. As always, please let us know if there are any corrections. Thanks as always for reading and sharing!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Lowndes Vikings advanced to the semifinals for the second consecutive year as they held off Grayson at home. The Vikings are now 13-0 for the first time since 2004. Quarterback Jacurri Brown had a big game on the ground, rushing for 158 yards and 2-TDs. Brown has now rushed for 1,308 yards and 18-TDs. The Vikings defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 49 times and is led by Thomas Davis, who has 10.5 on the year. Lowndes is averaging 36.6 points per game in the playoffs while the defense is allowing 14 points per game. A win this week would put Lowndes in the finals for the first time since 2007.

 

The North Gwinnett Bulldogs are in the semifinals for the second time in three years. The Bulldogs have now reeled off 12 games in a row. North Gwinnett got big performances from their three offensive stars quarterback J.R. Martin, running back Devin Crosby and receiver Josh Downs. On the season, Martin has passed for over 2,100 yards and 25-TDs, Crosby has rushed for over 1,400 yards and 18-TDs while Downs has now crossed the 1,000 yard mark in receiving yards with 12 TDs. The North Gwinnett defense has not allowed more than 23 points in a game all season. They’ve also tightened up in the playoffs, allowing only 12.3 points per game. The Offense is averaging 47.6 points per game. A win this Friday would put the Bulldogs into the finals for the second time in three years. We don’t believe North Gwinnett will score 47 against Lowndes this week, but we do like them on the road. Bulldogs by 3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Parkview Panthers have advanced to the semifinals for the first time since 2004. The Panthers rode the legs of Cody Brown and Tyler Curtis last week as the two backs combined for over 300 yards and 4-TDs to defeat Archer. On the season, the duo has rushed for over 2,300 yards and 30-TDs. Parkview has now won eleven consecutive games on the season. In the playoffs, they are averaging 36.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.3 points per game. A win this week would put Parkview into the finals for the first time since 2004.

 

The Marietta Blue Devils are in the semifinals for the first time since 1994. Marietta has now won six games in a row. The Blue Devils also got a big game from their running back Kimani Vidal who rushed for 263 yards, (237 coming in the first half) to down Mill Creek last week. Vidal has now rushed for 1,429 yards and scored 22-TDs on the ground. Meanwhile, Harrison Bailey has now passed for 3,563 yards and 39-TDs. In three playoff games, Marietta is averaging 40.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.6 points per game. A win would put the Blue Devils into the finals for the first time since 1967. While we certainly believe Parkview can neutralize Marietta’s explosive offense by keeping them on the sideline with their own ground game, we believe the Blue Devils are clicking on all cylinders right now. We like Marietta by 6 on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA A-Private Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 28, 2019 by admin

Happy Thanksgiving! Our last preview takes us to the Class A-Private GHSA Football Playoffs. Only four of the top eight teams still remain. Region 5 has three teams in the quarterfinals. The biggest “Cinderella” remaining are the Mount Paran Christian Eagles, who’ve gone on the road twice and survived each time. They are the 23rd seeded team.  The matchups this week are Wesleyan-Savannah Christian, Fellowship Christian-Hebron Christian, Holy Innocents-Mount Paran Christian and Athens Academy-ELCA. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Athens Academy Spartans are in the quarterfinals for the third year in a row.  They are also undefeated for the third year in a row. The Spartans overwhelmed Brookstone last week. Their defense has been dominant this season as they have only allowed 7 points per game. The Spartans have played most of the season without standout back, Len’Neth Whitehead, but Kurt Knisley has filled in nicely in the backfield and is now over the 1,000-yard mark on the season. The Spartans are averaging 43.6 points per game. A win this week would put Athens Academy in the semifinals for the third year in a row.

 

The Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy (ELCA) Chargers are in the quarterfinals for the tenth consecutive season. The Chargers have won their last seven games. Last week, they won a shootout with Prince Avenue Christian as the two teams combined to put 119 points on the board. Keaton Mitchell and Gabe Wright both had big nights as Mitchell rushed for 226 yards and 5-TDs while Wright passed fro 269 yards and 2-TDs. On the season, Wright has passed for 1,736 yards and 22-TDs while Mitchell has rushed for 1,566 yards and 38-TDs. The 57 points allowed by the defense was the most since allowing 42 points against Holy Innocents back in September. Even with those games, the Chargers are only allowing 12.9 points per game. A win this week would put ELCA back into the semifinals for the ninth straight year. ELCA has defeated Athens Academy the last two seasons to claim the Class A-Private title. This game is worthy of a state title matchup. We think this one will be much closer than the previous two meetings, but we like the Chargers to prevail again. ELCA by 4 on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Holy Innocents Golden Bears are in the midst of a special season. They are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2013. They are 11-0 for the first time in school history. The defense has held opponents to seven points or less seven times this season. On offense, they have not scored less than 28 points in a game. The Golden Bears are averaging 40.2 points per game while the defense is allowing 9 points per game. Holy Innocents relies primarily on the run and back Michael Cox has continued to deliver week in and week out to lead the Bears rushing attack. Cox is a bruising back who rarely goes down after the initial contact. A win this week would put Holy Innocents in the semifinals for the first time in school history.

 

The Mount Paran Christian Eagles are in the quarterfinals for the sixth time in seven years. The Eagles are winners of their last four games. Both of their playoff wins have been close games, with a combined margin of victory of 5 points. Quarterback Niko Vangarelli has shown the ability to beat teams with his arm and with his legs, extending plays while keeping his eyes down the field. The Eagles are now averaging 28.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.6 points per game. A win this week would put Mt. Paran back into the semifinals for the second time in three years. We like the Golden Bears this week at home. Just too much Michael Cox…Holy Innocents by 14.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

 

The Fellowship Christian Paladins have advanced to the quarterfinals for the fourth time in five years. The Paladins are 11-0 for the second time in school history. Last week they recorded their third shutout of the season. Fellowship Christian’s defense is only allowing 10.4 points per game this season. As a team, the Paladins have rushed for over 3,800 yards. They are led by Murphy Reeves, with 1,425 yards and 15-TDs. Jayven Hall (700 yards, 11-TDs) and Josh Cole (644 yards, 13-TDs) have also been great compliments to Reeves in the backfield. A win this week would put the Paladins in the semifinals for the second time in four years.

 

The Hebron Christian Lions are in the quarterfinal round for the first time in school history. The Lions have now won two games in a row after losing two Athens Academy in consecutive weeks to close out their regular season. The Lions defense has buckled down in those two playoff games and is only allowing 6.5 points per game. On the year, Hebron Christian is allowing 20.8 points per game. The teams that Hebron Christian lost to this season are all still alive in the playoffs. A win this week would put the Lions into the semifinals for the first time in school history. We like Fellowship Christian by 3 this week at home.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Wesleyan Wolves are in the quarterfinals for the second time in four years. The Wolves have won 10 games for the first time since 2010. They are also winners of their last six games entering this Friday. Sophomore quarterback J.C. French has now passed for 2,282 yards and 27-TDs on the season. Fellow sophomore Cooper Blauser leads the team in receptions (58) and receiving yards (829) while Micah Smith leads the team in receiving TDs with 12. The Wolves are outscoring their opponents 69-41 in the playoffs. A win this week would advance Wesleyan into the semifinals for the first time since 2010.

 

The Savannah Christian Raiders are back into the quarterfinals for the second year in a row. Savannah Christian won their last four games and got revenge on rival Savannah Country Day last week to advance. The Raiders offense attack is tilted a little more towards the run, as Marquell Brown has rushed for 1,205 yards and 12-TDs to lead the way for a team that’s run for over 2,300 yards on the season. Quarterback Spencer Robicheaux has now thrown for 1,415 yards and 8-TDs. In two playoff games, the Raiders are averaging 33 points per game while allowing 17.5 points per game. A win this week would put Savannah Christian back into the semifinals for the second year in a row. We like Wesleyan at home this week by 8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA A-Public Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 27, 2019 by admin

We now look at the quarterfinal round in the Class A-Public GHSA Football Playoffs. Six of the top seven seeds are still alive. The biggest “Cinderella” remaining is Warren County, who entered the post season as the 21st seeded team. The matchups this week are Mitchell County-Pelham, Marion County-Lincoln County, Clinch County-Warren County and Irwin County-Manchester. This week, our prayers go out to Garland Benyard of Irwin County who has played a big role on both sides of the ball for the Indians this season. He is recovering from an accident that occurred earlier this week. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Mitchell County Eagles are in the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. The Eagles have won 10 in a row entering this week. Last week, James Thomas provided most of the offense, rushing for 246 yards and 4-TDs in the Eagles victory. The defense also showed up big holding an opponent to 7 points or less for the seventh time this season. A win this week would put the Eagles in the semifinals for the first times since 1992.

 

The Pelham Hornets are back in the quarterfinals for the second year in a row. The Hornets outlasted Wilcox County last week to earn a rematch with their county rival.  Quarterback Kendrick Patterson threw for 299 yards and 3-TDs last week and also added 117 yards rushing and a rushing TD to lead the Hornets. Darrell Starling caught 5 passes for 101 yards and 2-TDs in the win and also intercepted a pass on defense. A win this would put the Hornets in the semifinals for the second week in a row. We believe this game will be even closer this week than the matchup earlier this month, but we like Mitchell County by 4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marion County Eagles advanced to the quarterfinals for the second year in a row. They have won six games in a row and have scored 30 or more points in all of those games during that streak. The Eagles had to come from behind last week to defeat Schley County to advance. Trice McCannon has now thrown for 1,864 yards, rushed for 729 yards and accounted for 41 total TDs while Brandon Thomas has rushed for 801 yards and 5-TDs. The Eagles are averaging 34.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.9 points per game. A win this week would put them into the semifinals for the second year in a row.

 

The Lincoln County Red Devils are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2012. The Red Devils edged out Commerce last week. They have now won seven consecutive games. The Red Devils have relied heavily on the legs of Kolbi Ferguson and Colton Willis this season. They have attempted less than 75 passes all season. The defense has been stingy this season, allowing only 8.4 points per game. The 17 points they surrendered to Commerce last week was the most they’d given up in a game all season. A win this week will put the Red Devils into the semifinals for the first time since 2012. We like Lincoln County in a mild upset this week on the road by 5.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Clinch County Panthers have advanced to the quarterfinals for the fifth year in a row. The Panthers are the back-to-back defending State Champions. Clinch has won seven consecutive games coming into Friday. Last week, Clinch jumped out to a 20-0 lead before defeating Emmanuel County by 23. Clinch is now averaging 36.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 15 points per game. Tyler Morehead spearheads the Panthers offense and is complimented by backs Michael Walker and Xavier Trawick.  A win this week would put Clinch County back into the semifinals for the fifth year in a row.

 

Warren County is in the quarterfinal round for the first time since 2007. The Screaming Devils have won six of their last seven games coming into this week. Last week, they went on the road and shocked Bowdon. In the playoffs, the Screaming Devils are outscoring their opponents 64-14. On the season, Warren County is averaging 31.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.2 points per game. A win this week would put the Screaming Devils into the semifinals for the first time since 1970. We like Clinch at home this week by 17.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Irwin County Indians advanced to the quarterfinals for the seventh straight season. The Indians are also 10-0 for the second year in a row. Last week against Chattahoochee County, the Indians allowed the most points they’d given up all season, 22. Yet, most of those points where scored after the game was well in hand. The Indians are averaging 39.7 points per game while the defense is now allowing 4.4 points per game. Kam Ward, Gabriel Benyard and D.J. Lundy continue to lead the  ground game for the Indians. A win this week would put Irwin County in the semifinals for the third straight season.

 

The Manchester Blue Devils went on the road and got a big win over Johnson County to advance to the quarterfinals for the third time in four years. Manchester has now won five games in a row. In two playoff games, the Blue Devils have outscored their opponents 76-20. They are averaging 34.5 points per game and have scored 40+ points six times this season. A win this Friday would put the Blue Devils into the semifinals for the first time since 1997. Ironically, that year, the Blue Devils won the state title, defeating none other than Irwin County. That’s the only time these two teams have faced off. We like the Indians this week by 17 at home.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA 2A Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 26, 2019 by admin

We now shift to the quarterfinal round in Class 2-A GHSA Football Playoffs. There are six #1 seeds still remaining and two #2 seed still alive. The matchups this week are Dublin-Hapeville, Thomasville-Rabun County, Metter-Brooks County and Callaway-Douglass. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

 

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The Skinny

 

The Dublin Fighting Irish are in the quarterfinals for the second year in a row. The Fighting Irish have bounced back from the loss two week ago against Washington County. Dublin’s offense had been on a tear prior to the loss to Washington County. Nevertheless, they are averaging 46.7 points per game on the season. During the playoffs, Dublin is averaging 38.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.5 points per game. A win this week would put Dublin in the semifinals for the first time since 2007.

 

The Hapeville Charter Hornets are in the quarterfinals for the third time in four years. The Hornets have won five games in a row. Last week the reached the 70-point mark for the second time this season. Hapeville’s defense is allowing 9.9 points per game this season while the offense is now averaging 46.5 points per game. In the playoffs, they are outscoring the opposition 126-28. A win this Friday would put the Hornets in the semifinals for the third time in four years. Dublin has an offense that could neutralize Hapeville’s explosiveness, but we still like the Hornets this week on the road…Hapeville Charter by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Thomasville Bulldogs are in the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. Thomasville has won six consecutive games heading into this Friday. Quarterback Ronnie baker has now thrown for 1,980 yards and 15-TDs. As a team, the Bulldogs have rushed for over 2,100 yards this season. Ricardo Johnson has caught 51 passes for 767 yards and 8-TDs. The Bulldogs have outscored their opponents in the playoffs 89-40. A win this week would put Thomasville back in the semifinals for the first time since 1993.

 

The Rabun County Wildcats have advanced to the quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive season. The Wildcats are 12-0 for the second time in school history. Quarterback Gunner Stockton has passed for 3,146 yards and rushed for 1,019 yards and accounted for 60 total TDs. Braxton Hicks is the team’s leading receiver with 59 receptions for 1,103 yards and 11-TDs. The Wildcats have not allowed over 20 points in a game this season. Phillip Roberson leads the team in sacks with 10. A win this week would put the Wildcats in the semifinals for the second time in three years. Even though Rabun County will be making the 5+ hour trip from Tiger to Thomasville, we like them this week on the road…Wildcats by 5.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Metter Tigers are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2003. The Tigers have now won six consecutive games and have won eleven games for the first time since 2003. Last week, the Metter defense held the Union County passing attack in check. The Tigers are averaging 25 points per game while the defense is allowing 9.5 points per game. They have not given up more than 21 points in a game this season. A Metter win would put them in the semifinals for the first time since 2002.

 

The Brooks County Trojans find themselves in the quarterfinals for the eighth time in twelve years. The Trojans have won their last five games. Last week they shut down Rockmart, allowing only a field goal in one of their best defensive showings all season. On offense, quarterback Ni’tavion Burrus has passed for 1,645 yards and 17-TDs while Omari Arnold has rushed for 1,379 yards and 18-TDs. The Trojans are outscoring the opposition in the playoffs 83-17. A win this week would put Brooks County in the semifinals for the second time in three years. We like the Trojans this week over the Tigers…Brooks County by 8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Callaway Cavaliers have advanced to the quarterfinals for the fourth consecutive season.  Callaway has won eleven consecutive games and has also scored 50 or more points in their last three games. Callaway has not lost to a team from the state of Georgia this season. In the playoffs, Callaway has outscored their opposition 104-38. The defense is allowing 10.8 points per game on the year, while the offense is averaging 43 points per game. Expect Douglass to see a steady dose of back Tank Bigsby and Charlie Dixon, but the “X-Factor” might be quarterback Demetrius Coleman. A Cavaliers win would put them into the semifinals for the third time in four years.

 

The Douglass Astros are in the quarterfinal round for the first time since 1995. The Astros have won six consecutive games on the year. Douglass has done most of their damage on the ground this season behind running back Quintavious Lockett. During the regular season, Lockett rushed for 1,489 yards and 23-TDs. The four-point win last week was their closest margin of victory this season. A win would advance the Astros to the semifinals for the first time in school history. We like Callaway this week by three touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA 3A Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 26, 2019 by admin

 

We turn our attention to the quarterfinal round in Class 3-A GHSA Football Playoffs. There are seven #1 seeds still remaining while Hart County is the only #2 seed still alive. The matchups this week are Jenkins-North Murray, Crisp County-Jefferson, Greater Atlanta Christian-Hart County and Cedar Grove-Peach COunty. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Jenkins Warriors are in the quarterfinals for the third consecutive season. The Warriors have won ten straight games. They have not allowed more than 9 points in a game during that streak. Quarterback Patrick Blake has passed for over 1,600 yards and 21-TDs while Damozzio Harris has rushed for 1,460 yards and 25-TDs. In the first two rounds of the playoffs, the Warriors are outscoring opponents 83-9. On the season, the Jenkins is only allowing 7 points per game. A win this week would put Jenkins in the semifinals for the firs time since 1966.

 

The North Murray Mountaineers are in the quarterfinals for the first time in school history. They are also winners of their last ten games. During that stretch, the Mountaineers have not allowed more than 21 points in a game. During the regular season, North Murray allowed 14.7 points per game, which is right in line with their playoff defense, (14 ppg). A win this week would put North Murray into the semifinals for the first time in school history. We like Jenkins this week by two touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Crisp County Cougars are in the quarterfinals for the second time in four years. The Cougars have now won six consecutive games and in those six games they are allowing only 5 points per game. In the playoffs, the Cougars are outscoring opponents 87-3. The Crisp County offense is powered by running back Marquise Palmer and quarterback A.J. Lofton. The duo has combined for over 2,100 rushing yards and 25-TDs. A win by the Cougars would put them into the semifinals for the second time in four years.

 

The Jefferson Dragons are in the quarterfinals for the sixth time in eight years. The Dragons have won ten straight entering play this Friday. Jefferson has not given up more than 23 points in a game this season. Their defense is allowing 9.7 points per game. (That number is up to 12 points per game in the playoffs.) Quarterback Colby Clark has gone over the 1,000-yard mark in rushing for Jefferson. The Dragons have done most of their work on the ground this season averaging over 325 yards rushing per game. A Jefferson win would put them into the semifinals for the first time since 2016. We like the Cougars at home by a field goal this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans are in the quarterfinals for the sixth time in eight years. The Spartans have won eleven games in a row and also recorded their second shutout of the season. Spartans quarterback Jackson Hardy has passed for 2,369 yards and 26-TDs while Tyler Bride has rushed for 1,152 yards and 15-TDs. Linebacker Choe Bryant Strother leads the team in total tackles with 83. A win this week would put the Spartans into the semifinals for the sixth time in seven years.

 

The Hart County Bulldogs are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2014.  The Bulldogs outlasted Pierce County last week to notch their fifth consecutive win. Albeit an overtime game, the 29 points Hart County surrendered where the most this season in a game. A win this week would put the Bulldogs into the semifinals for the first time since 1999. We like the Spartans this week at home by 8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Cedar Grove Saints are in the quarterfinals for the fifth season in a row. Cedar Grove has won eight games in a row and is the defending 3A State Champion. The Saints defense has buckled down during that stretch, not allowing over 17 points in a game and notching four shutouts. The Saints defense has forced 31 turnovers on the season. Isaiah Ratcliffe leads the team with 129 tackles. On offense, Chavon Wright now leads DeKalb County in rushing with 1,486 yards and 19-TDs on the season while junior quarterback Austin Smith has thrown for 1,259 yards and 16-TDs. A Cedar Grove win would put them in the semifinals for the fifth consecutive season.

 

The Peach County Trojans are back in the quarterfinals for the fourth year in a row. The Trojans are winners of their last nine games. Peach County has put up some big numbers this season, scoring over 50 points four times. The Trojans have yet to surrender a score in the playoffs, outscoring their first two opponents 54-0. During the regular season, Jaydon Gibson threw for 1,762 yards and 20-TDs while Noah Whittington and Tijah Woolfolk combined for over 1,400 yards. Sergio Allen led the defense in total tackles during the regular season while Jaqualin McGhee led the team in sacks. A Peach County win would put them in the semifinals for the fourth consecutive year. For those that don’t know, this game is a rematch of the 2018 title game that ended in dramatic fashion. We believe it will be close, but we like Peach to outlast Cedar Grove by 6 on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA 4A Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 25, 2019 by admin

We turn our attention to the quarterfinal round in Class 4-A GHSA Football Playoffs. There are five #1 seeds still remaining and two #2 seeds remaining. Madison County is the lone “Cinderella” remaining as the #4 seed and will go on the road for the third week in a row to try to keep the magic going. The matchups this week are Sandy Creek-Madison County, Oconee County-Marist, Blessed Trinity-West Laurens and Cartersville-Woodward Academy. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Sandy Creek Patriots are in the quarterfinals for the first times since 2014. The Patriots have won five games in a row. The Patriots are outscoring their opponents 98-14 in the playoffs this season. Quarterback Matthew Williams has passed for over 3,000 yards while Brian Branch leads the offense in receiving and is also a ball-hawking DB in the secondary. Ahmad Jackson is also one of the Patriots top receivers. A Sandy Creek win will put them in the semifinals for the first times since 2012.

 

The Madison County Red Raiders are in the quarterfinals for the first time in school history. Madison County has won three out of their last four games and are the only remaining #4 seed in the Class 4A playoffs. They are averaging 32.5 points per game in the playoffs compared to 18.3 points per game in the regular season. With a win on Friday, the Red Raiders would advance to the semifinals for the first time in school history. We believe the magic runs out for the Red Raiders this week. We like Sandy Creek at home by two touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Oconee County Warriors are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2001. The Warriors have now won 10 straight games. They have not allowed more than 14 points in a game since August. Oconee County is led on offense by quarterback Max Johnson and wide receivers Ben Noland and Jake Johnson. The Warriors are outscoring their opponents 80-21 in two playoff games. A win this week would put them into the semifinals for the first time since 1999.

 

The Marist War Eagles are in the quarterfinals for the seventh time in eight years. Marist has won back-to-back games after they closed out the regular season with a loss to Blessed Trinity. Quarterback Connor Cigelske has been a one-man wrecking crew on offense for Marist. Last week he racked up 283 total yards of offense and accounted for two-TDs in the win. A win this week by Marist would put them into the semifinals for the third year in a row. We like Marist by a field goal this week on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Blessed Trinity Titans return to the quarterfinals for the seventh straight year. The Titans have won nine consecutive games coming into this week. They turned in one of their best defensive performances, holding Baldwin to just a field goal last week. With a healthy Elijah Green, the Titans are really rounding into form. The offensive line, anchored by Jackson Filipowicz and Ty Furnish, have helped pave the way for two 1,000-yard rushers, Justice Haynes (1,458 yards, 16-TDs) and Green (1,093 yards, 14-TDs). A win this week would put the Titans in the semifinals for the third year in a row.

 

The West Laurens Raiders are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2014. The Raiders have won eight consecutive games coming into this week. The 17 points allowed to North Oconee where the most allowed since mid September. Quarterback A.J. Mathis has passed for over 2,100 yards on the season while Daniel Dorsey, Christian Covey and Shonta Burney Jr. lead the team in rushing. Brent Carr has over 1,200 yards receiving. The defense has recorded 59 sacks on the season led by Spencer Dacus, Daniel Lindo and D’Eryck Jackson. A West Laurens win would put them into the semifinals for the first time in school history. We like the Blessed Trinity at home by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes are in the quarterfinals for the sixth time in eight years. The Canes are 12-0 for the second year in a row and for the fourth time in five years. Last week, the Canes recorded their third shutout of the season. They have held all but two of their opponents to 14 points or less. Quarterback Tee Webb has passed for 2,677 yards and 25-TDs while Sam Phillips (47 receptions, 643 yards, 7-TDs) and Devonte Ross (46 receptions, 976 yards, 10-TDs) lead the Canes in receiving. A Cartersville win will put them in the semifinals for the second consecutive season.

 

The Woodward Academy War Eagles are in the quarterfinals for the fifth time in six years. The War Eagles are 12-0 for the first time since 2015. They also recorded their third shutout of the season last week. Quarterback Mike Wright has thrown for over 2,000 yards this season. Damari Alston leads Woodward in rushing while Ambe Caldwell is the team’s leading receiver. Woodward has not allowed over 20 points in a game this season. Their defense is holding opponents to 6.9 points per game. A win this week would put Woodward into the semifinals for the first time since 2015. We like Cartersville at home by a touchdown.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in 2019 Playoffs, 4A | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GHSA 5A Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 25, 2019 by admin

We turn our attention to the quarterfinal round in Class 5-A GHSA Football Playoffs. There are five #1 seeds still remaining and three #2 seeds remaining. Regions 2, 3 and 8 still have two teams remaining. The matchups this week are Starr’s Mill-Dutchtown, Warner Robins-Clarke Central, Carrollton-Buford and Jones County-Griffin. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Starr’s Mill Panthers are in the post season for the second time in three years. Starr’s Mill has now won seven consecutive games on the season. Kalen Sims and Ben Bodne continue to lead the Panthers ground game with over 2,000 yards combined on the season. In two playoff games, Starr’s Mill is averaging 36.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.5 points per game. A win this Friday would put the Panthers in the semifinals for the first time since 2010.

The Dutchtown Bulldogs are in the quarterfinals for the second consecutive season and the third time in school history. The Bulldogs have won their last five games and have shutout three of their opponents during that span. In two playoff games, the Bulldogs are averaging 25.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 3.5 points per game. A Dutchtown win would put them in the semifinals for the first time in school history. We like Dutchtown this week by 4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Warner Robins Demons are in the quarterfinals for the third consecutive season. The Demons enter this week winners of their last eight games. It was the second consecutive season that the Demons defeated the Rome Wolves in the playoffs. Coming into last Friday’s game, quarterback Jalen Addie had passed for 1,881 yards and 20-TDs, Jalen Rutherford had rushed for 1,054 yards and 4-TDs, and Marcayl Jones had caught 33 passes for 656 yards and 2-TDs to help lead the Demons offense. A win this week would put Warner Robins in the semifinals for the third year in a row.

The Clarke Central Gladiators are in the quarterfinals for the second year in a row. They have now won five consecutive games. Quarterback Isaac Ward has passed for 2,380 yards and 32-TDs, running back O’Brien Barnett has rushed for 1,447 yards and 17-TDs, while Jarius Mack has caught 60 passes for 1,117 yards and 17-TDs to lead the Gladiators on offense. Tracy Hill has intercepted 7 passes on defense. A win this week would put the Gladiators in the semifinals for the first time since 2009. We like the Demons at home by 8 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Carrollton Trojans have advanced to the quarterfinals for the fourth straight season. The Trojans are 12-0 for the first time since 2010. During the regular season, quarterback Myles Morris passed for 1,977 yards and 14-TD while Brandon Marenco (623 yards, 3-TDs) and Mecose Todd (457 yards, 10-TDs) led the team in rushing. Terell Carmichael led the team in receiving with 26 receptions for 652 yards and 6-TDs. The Trojans sacked opposing quarterbacks 75.5 times during the regular season. A win this week would put them into the semifinals for the first time since 2010.

 

The Buford Wolves turned in back to back impressive performances to advance to the quarterfinals for the 20th consecutive season. The Wolves have now won two straight since their upset loss to Clarke County. Running back Gabe Ervin Jr., and Elijah Turner have combined to rush for over 1,400 yards during the regular season. We expect a close game over in Carrollton on Friday, but we like the visiting Wolves by 2 on the road this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Jones County Greyhounds have advanced to the quarterfinals for the third time in six years. Jones County was held to their second lowest point production of the year, but matched one of their best defensive performances. The Greyhounds have now won two in a row. Quarterback Hunter Costlow has now passed for 2,706 yards and 26-TDs, while Andrew Carner has rushed for 1,104 yards and 9-TD. Receivers Jontavis Robertson (56 receptions, 1,038 yards and 7-TDs) and Maleek Wooten (52 receptions, 832 yards, 12-TDs) lead the Greyhounds in receiving. A win this week would put them into the semifinals for the first time since 1961.

 

The Griffin Bears are back into the quarterfinals for the second time in four seasons. The Bears come into this week winners of their last six games. During the regular season, Quarterback Darshaveious Foster passed for 2,046 yards and 23-TDs while Alijah King rushed for 1,177 yards and 20-TDs. Jamoi Mayes (45 receptions, 611 yards, 7-TDs), Terrell Jester (32 receptions, 524 yards, 8-TDs) and Quamari Williams (29 receptions, 561 yards, 4-TDs) lead the Bears receiving corp. Griffin is allowing 17 points per game in the playoffs. A win would put them into the semifinals for the first time since 2013. We like the Bears to get the upset this week. Griffin by 4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA 7A Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 24, 2019 by admin

We turn our attention to the quarterfinal round in Class 7-A GHSA Football Playoffs. There are five #1 seeds still remaining, while three #2 seeds remain. There will be at least one #2 seed in the semifinals. The matchups this week are Marietta-Mill Creek, McEachern-North Gwinnett, Lowndes-Grayson and Parkview-Archer. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marietta Blue Devils defeated last year’s 7A Champion on the road last week to advance to the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. Marietta has now won five straight games. They are averaging 39.5 points per game in the playoffs while the defense is allowing 18.5 points per game. A Marietta win would put them in the semifinals for the first time since 1994.

 

The Mill Creek Hawks have now reached the quarterfinal round for the fifth time in school history. The Hawks have also won five straight games. Mill Creek is averaging 43 points per game in the playoffs while the defense is allowing 15.5 points per game. Mill Creek is undefeated when scoring 24 points or more this season. The Hawks would advance to the semifinals for the third time in school history and the also the third time in five years. We expect Chancellor Lee Parker and Mill Creek to keep this game close but the Blue Devils are a little deeper. We like Marietta by a touchdown at home.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The McEachern Indians are in the quarterfinals for the fifth time in seven years. The Indians are 12-0 for the first time since 1999. Carlos Del Rio has passed for 1,694 yards and 15-TDs while Jordan Simmons has rushed for 1,016 yards and 15-TDS on the season. Mason Hall and Jamil Burroughs have combined for 17 sacks on the season. The Indians are averaging 44.5 points per game in the playoffs while the defense is allowing 21.5 points per game. A win this week would put the McEachern into the semifinals for the second time in three years.

 

The North Gwinnett Bulldogs are winners of eleven straight games and are in the quarterfinals for the third consecutive season. In their last four games, the Bulldogs have scored 48+ points each time out. The Bulldogs top offensive performers are quarterback J.R. Martin, (who’s passed for over  1,900 yards), Devin Crosby, (over 1,100 rushing yards), and wide receiver Joshua Downs, (over 920 receiving yards). North Gwinnett is averaging 55.5 points per game during the playoffs while the defense is allowing 12 points per game. We like North Gwinnett on the road this week to beat McEachern by 5.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Lowndes Vikings are in the quarterfinals for the third time in four years. Lowndes has not scored less than 24 points in a game this season. The Vikings are averaging 41 points per game in the playoffs, while the defense is allowing 11 points per game. Quarterback Jacurri Brown has passed fro 1,066 yards, rushed for 1,150 yards and accounted for 22-total TDs on the season. Running backs Israel Mitchell (741 yards, 7-TDs), Justin Lee (623 yards, 7-TDs) and Gary Osby (623 yards, 16-TDs) along with Brown have helped lead the team to over 3,300 yards rushing on the season. A win this week would advance the Vikings to the semifinals for the second straight season.

 

The Grayson Rams are back in the quarterfinals for the second consecutive season. The Rams have won seven consecutive games. In those seven games, the Rams have not scored less than 30 points in each game. During the playoffs, they are averaging 36.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 10.5 points per game. The return of junior running back Phil Mafah  has given the Rams a boost in the backfield to go along with 1,000-yard rusher, Lafayette Gurvin Jr. A win would but the Rams in the semifinals for the third time in five years. The Rams are 0-1 south of the “Gnat Line” this season, but we like them to upset the Vikings this week. Grayson by 2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Parkview Panthers scored a big win on Friday knocking off perennial power Colquitt County to advance to the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. The Panthers have now won 10 consecutive games. During the playoffs, the Parkview is averaging 37.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.5 per game. While Jordan Williams has passed for over 1,800 yards on the season, expect them to rely heavily on bruising running back Cody Brown to help lead the way this week. A win by Parkview would put them into the semifinals for the first time since 2004.

 

The Archer Tigers advanced to the quarterfinals for the third straight season. Archer has now won five consecutive games. During that streak, they’ve not scored less than 31 points in a game. In the playoffs, they are averaging 38 points per game while the defense is allowing 21 points per game. An Archer victory would put the Tigers in the semifinals for the second consecutive season. Both teams are playing at a high level, but we like Parkview and Cody Brown to advance this week in a tightly contested game. Panthers by 3.

 

 

 

 

 

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GHSA 6A Quarterfinal Football Previews

Posted on November 24, 2019 by admin

We turn our attention to the quarterfinal round in Class 6-A GHSA Football Playoffs. There are five #1 seeds still remaining. Region-1 still has all four teams remaining, while Region-6 has two teams remaining. The matchups this week are Harrison-Houston County, Lee County-Dacula, Richmond Hill-Valdosta and Allatoona-Coffee. As always, please let us know if there are any errors. Thanks for reading and best of luck to all the teams competing this Friday night.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Harrison Hoyas are in the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. The Hoyas are outscoring their opponents 96-44 in the postseason. The 25 points they surrendered to Winder-Barrow in the first round were the most they’d give up all season. Harrison quarterback Gavin Hall threw for over 1,400 yards and 12-TDs in the regular season, while David Roberts rushed for over 1,000 yards and 11-TDs. A win by the Hoyas would put them in the semifinals for the first time since 2000 and only the second time in school history.

 

The Houston County Bears are in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2015. The Bears are the only #4 seed remaining in the playoffs. Houston County has now won three straight games. In two playoff games, they are averaging 34.5 points per game while the defense is allowing 21.5 points per game. Quarterback Max Rigby has passed for 2,426 yards and 20-TDs while Corey Chaisson leads the ground game with 583 yards and 4-TDs. Isaiah Harris has caught 63 passes for 905 yards and 11-TDs. A win by the Bears would put them into the semifinals for the first time since 1993. We like Harrison this week by two touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Lee County Trojans are back into the quarterfinals for the third straight season. The Trojans are now 12-0 in their last three years in the postseason. Lee County has now won 9 consecutive games. They are outscoring opponents 100-7 in two postseason games. On the season, Lee County is averaging 39.9 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.2 points per game. Lee County has not lost a home game since October 21, 2016; that’s a span of  27 games. With a win, the Trojans will advance to their third straight semifinals.

 

The Dacula Falcons return to the quarterfinals for the second straight season. The Falcons are 12-0 for the first time since 1996. Since September 6th, Dacula has not scored less than 28 points in a game. They are averaging 45.5 points per game in the playoffs while the defense is allowing 19 points per game. The Falcons also shutout four opponents during the regular season. A win by Dacula would put them into the semifinals for the second consecutive season. We like Lee County this week in a nip and tuck battle. Trojans by 4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Richmond Hill Wildcats have advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time since 1996. Richmond Hill has now won seven games in a row. During the playoffs, the Wildcats are averaging 38 points per game while the defense is allowing 23 points per game. The Wildcats have done most of their damage on the ground this season, primarily on the legs of Jalen Rouse who is over 1,700 yards. A win this week would put Richmond Hill in the semifinals for the first time in school history.

 

The Valdosta Wildcats are in the quarterfinals for the third time in four years. The Wildcats had to come from behind and then preserve the win in dramatic fashion last week. Valdosta has now won three consecutive games. The Wildcats are averaging 36.5 points per game in the playoffs while the defense is allowing 16.5 points per game. This will be the second week in a row that Valdosta will be on the road. A Valdosta win would put them in the semifinals for the first time since 2016, when the Wildcats won the state title. We like Valdosta’s chances this week…Wildcats by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Allatoona Buccaneers are in the quarterfinals for the sixth time in school history. The Bucs have now won five consecutive games. The Allatoona defense has been pretty staunch this season. In the playoffs, they are allowing 10 points per game. They have not allowed over 21 points in a game this season. Running back Alex Wilson has surpassed the 1,000-yard mark rushing and receiver Asante Das has over 900 yards receiving to help spearhead the Bucs offense. We also can’t forget special teams…Jude Kelly is averaging almost 44 yards per punt and has also connected on a career best 54-yard field goal this season. An Allatoona win would put them in the semifinals for the first time since 2015, when they won the State Title.

 

The Coffee Trojans advanced to the quarterfinals for the fourth consecutive season. The Trojans have won three of their last four games. They’ve also scored 119 points in the playoffs this season. Quarterback A.J. Wilkerson has passed for 1,214 yards and 14-TDs while Jamal Paulk (666 yards, 14-TDs) Maurice Turner (436 yards, 3-TDs) and Antonio Dawson (323 yards, 4-TDs) have helped pace the Trojans to over 2,200 yards rushing. This will be the third straight week that Coffee will be on the road. A win by the Trojans will put them into the semifinals for the second time in three years. We like Coffee this week by a touchdown on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in 2019 Playoffs, 6A | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment