Eight Greats Around the State – Week 2 GHSA Football Previews – Part II

Posted on August 20, 2025 by admin

The Georgia High School Football season is off and running after plenty of outstanding action in Week-1. This week we have several games across the state as most teams continue their non-region slate of games. Today we will take a look at eight intriguing matchups across the state this weekend. 

Here is a quick look at what’s in this week’s preview:

Run-Heavy Clash: Lincoln County Visits Jenkins County
Both teams averaged over 240 rushing yards per game last season and rarely put the ball in the air, so expect an old-school battle in Millen. Jenkins County is tough at home, but Lincoln County’s depth and experience make the Red Devils a formidable foe.

North Hall Opens at Home Against Wesleyan in Balanced Battle
Both teams will mix run and pass, but North Hall’s experienced offense led by QB Smith McGarvey could give them an edge. Wesleyan’s balanced attack and opportunistic defense should make this a close matchup.

Run-Focused Clash: Ware County Hosts Coffee
Both teams will rely heavily on their ground games, with KJ Debruce likely topping 100 yards again for Coffee. Ware County’s dominant rushing duo could give the Gators a slight edge in a close battle.

McEachern and North Cobb Battle for Cobb County Best in Class
Both teams bring balanced, high-powered offenses and some of Georgia’s top skill players, including Casey Barner and Zach Belyeu. Expect plenty of scoring n this one. Will McEachern’s depth gives them the edge in a close contest?

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

The Skinny

The Jenkins County War Eagles opened their season with a convincing win over Glascock County, marking their fourth straight season-opening victory. Calvin Adams powered the ground game with more than 140 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Jenkins County averaged 247 rushing yards per game last season, and they look poised to keep leaning on their powerful run game — especially after attempting just 59 passes in 2024.

Lincoln County, idle in Week 1, will make the road trip to Millen after an 11-win season in 2024 that ended in the quarterfinals. Like Jenkins County, the Red Devils live on the ground, averaging 252.3 rushing yards per game a season ago while attempting only 86 passes. They return nearly all of their offensive production, including leading rusher Kelby Glaze and veteran quarterback Mekhi Wade.

This game will feature old-school football — we wouldn’t expect more than 10 combined pass attempts. While Jenkins County has enough talent to make another postseason push, Lincoln County’s experience and depth at the skill positions give them the edge.

Prediction: Lincoln County by 18.

The Skinny

The North Hall Trojans open their 2025 season at home after a Week-1 bye, returning a high-powered offense that averaged just over 29 points per game last season. Quarterback Smith McGarvey threw for 1,701 yards and 21 touchdowns while completing 63.4% of his passes and added 492 rushing yards and eight scores. Senior Parker Carlton also returns, having rushed for 681 yards and 11 touchdowns last year, while contributing 93 tackles and six sacks on defense. Walker Davis led the team with 103 tackles, giving North Hall experience and balance on both sides of the ball.

The Wesleyan Wolves opened the season with a win over Commerce, using a balanced attack of 139 rushing yards and 153 passing yards. Maddox Gartland paced the ground game with 111 yards and a rushing touchdown on 17 carries, and added a receiving score. Carter Hayes led the Wolves in receiving with 102 yards and a touchdown on five catches, while quarterback Walker Kirkland threw for 153 yards and two touchdowns with no turnovers. Wesleyan’s defense forced three turnovers, led by linebacker Billy Gingrey who recorded eight total tackles.

North Hall will face a tough challenge from a balanced Wesleyan squad, but the Trojans’ experience on offense should give them the edge. Both teams will mix run and pass, but Smith McGarvey’s proven passing ability should make the difference.

Prediction: North Hall by 6.

The Skinny

The Ware County Gators started slow last week but erupted in the second half, scoring 43 points in a win over Appling County. The Gators dominated on the ground, totaling 320 rushing yards behind Tayshaun Franklin (152 yards, 3 TDs) and Jamir Boyd (103 yards, 1 TD), outpacing any single game rushing output from a season ago. Quarterback Isaiah White added 82 passing yards and a touchdown on four completions.

The Coffee Trojans also leaned on their rushing attack in a victory over Bainbridge, posting 234 yards on the ground. Kentavious “KJ” Debruce led the charge with 162 yards on 20 carries and scored all four of Coffee’s touchdowns, matching his entire 2024 touchdown total in just one game. Coffee’s offense remained nearly all ground-based, attempting only two passes last week.

With both teams relying heavily on the run, this could be one of the shortest games of the season. Debruce looks poised for another 100-yard outing, but Ware County’s balanced rushing attack could make the difference at home. Expect a tight contest, with the Gators edging Coffee in the Swamp.

Prediction: Ware County by 3.

The Skinny

The McEachern Indians made a statement last Saturday with a dominating win over Walton in the Corky Kell Classic. The Indians racked up 583 yards of total offense, with 227 passing and 356 rushing. Six different rushers carried the ball, and four found the end zone. Henry Pullen led the ground attack with 96 yards on 16 carries, while Ty Nolan added 68 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Calvin Pittman spread the ball to seven different receivers, with Jacorey Shockley catching six passes for 112 yards and a touchdown. Casey Barner stole the spotlight with three scores — one rushing, one receiving on a fake punt, and one kickoff return.

The North Cobb Warriors also got off to a strong start with a win over the Archer Tigers. Sophomore Zach Belyeu paced the ground game with 119 yards and three touchdowns, while Quevy Echols added 107 yards. In his first start at North Cobb, quarterback Teddy Jarrard completed just over 68% of his passes for 156 yards. Junior receivers Micah Billingsley and Christian Woods combined for 11 catches totaling 124 yards. North Cobb’s defense was solid, allowing just two touchdowns, recording two sacks, and picking off one pass.

This matchup showcases some of the best talent in Cobb County. Belyeu and Barner are two of the top players in their class in Georgia, and both teams feature balanced offenses capable of scoring at will. McEachern’s deeper offensive weaponry could make the difference in a closely contested game.

Prediction: McEachern by 7.

Posted in GHSA Weekly Football Previews - Eight Greats Around the State | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

2025 GHSA Football Rankings – Week-1 Power Rankings Recap: Surprises, Shakeups, and Statement Wins Across Georgia

Posted on August 17, 2025 by admin

Week 1 is officially in the books, and what a week it was. Upsets, statement wins, and a few humbling losses caused movement in nearly every classification. Here’s how things shook out in our latest power rankings:

Class 6A

North Gwinnett and Valdosta swapped places after the Bulldogs fell to No. 3 Douglas County in the Corky Kell Classic finale. Despite the change, the top eight teams remained intact, signaling early stability at the top of 6A.

Class 5A

The headline came Friday when Rome was stunned by Class 4A Creekside, falling by 20 points. That loss dropped Rome out of the Top 10, opening the door for Houston County, who debuts at No. 9 after a statement win over 6A Brookwood.

– Milton, previously No. 1, slid to No. 4 following a Thursday night loss to Buford (6A).

Class 4A

Perhaps the biggest surprise statewide was Marist getting blanked by Jefferson, 19–0. Marist drops out, while Creekside rockets up to No. 3 after knocking off Rome.

– Kell rises three spots to No. 5 after an impressive win over East Paulding.

– Ware County makes its season debut at No. 10 following a strong performance against Appling County.

Class 3A

Some turbulence at the back of the Top 10:

– Southeast Bulloch and Oconee County fall out.

– Upson-Lee (No. 9) and Monroe Area (No. 10) step in — we’ll see if they have staying power or if the displaced programs claw their way back.

Class 2A

– Appling County tumbles three spots to No. 5 after its loss to Ware County.

– Carver-Columbus holds steady at No. 1.

– Hart County breaks in at No. 9, replacing Stephens County after their setback against Habersham Central.

Class A-D1

The shocker of the week: unranked Swainsboro nips former No. 1 Dublin by a single point.

– Swainsboro vaults to No. 5

– Dublin drops to No. 6

– Thomasville claims the top spot at No. 1.

Class A-D2

Almost everyone took it on the chin in Week 1 — with all but one Top-10 team losing to higher-classification opponents, the rankings remain unchanged for now.

Class A-Private (1-3A)

– Aquinas moves up to No. 7 after knocking off Athens Academy (now No. 9).

– North Cobb Christian makes a splashy debut at No. 8 following a decisive win over Providence Christian.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A – DIVISION I

A – DIVISION II

PRIVATE 1-3A

Posted in Turd Ferguson Report - Weekly Power Rankings | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Eight Greats Around the State – Week 1 GHSA Football Previews – Part II

Posted on August 13, 2025 by admin

The 2025 high school football season kicks off with a smattering of games on Wednesday and Thursday before the action heats up on Friday, capped by the Corky Kell Classic at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday. Here are our headlines for Part II of our Eight Greats Across the state.

North Oconee vs. Oconee County – The defending 4A champ Titans open against county rival Oconee County. QB Harrison Faulkner leads a high-powered North Oconee attack that averaged 39 PPG in 2024.

Fellowship Christian vs. Bowdon – Last year Fellowship edged the defending A-D2 champ Red Devils. Watch RB C.J. Givers (FCS) and 6’6” WR Kaiden Prothro (Bowdon) in this rematch.

Thomasville vs. Brooks County – 30th “War on 84” in the City of Roses. Both return playoff-tested QBs. Thomasville leads the series; Brooks wants a statement win.

North Gwinnett vs. Douglas County – Corky Kell nightcap. North lost offensive firepower but has a strong defense; loaded Douglas County has Benz-level ambitions.

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

The Skinny

North Oconee enters 2025 riding the momentum of a perfect 2024 season capped by a state championship. Expectations in Bogart are sky-high once again, and for good reason. The Titans return Georgia Southern commit Harrison Faulkner, the reigning Class 4A Offensive Player of the Year, who put up video-game numbers last fall — 3,230 passing yards with 38 touchdowns, plus 733 rushing yards and seven more scores. Faulkner will have plenty of familiar weapons at his disposal, including wide receivers Braxton Goolsby and Dallas Dickerson, both reliable targets who thrived in North Oconee’s offense. Add in two-way standout Khamari Brooks, a difference-maker at both linebacker and tight end, and it’s easy to see why many pundits view the Titans as one of the favorites to repeat.

Oconee County, meanwhile, showed plenty of resilience last year. After an 0–3 start, the Warriors regrouped to win six of their last seven regular-season games and advance to the second round of the playoffs. They’ll lean heavily on their rushing attack again in 2025, with their top two backs returning: Caiden Wood (888 yards, 11 TDs) and Darius Durden(557 yards, 9 TDs). In the passing game, tight end Mason Hall will again be a go-to target after leading the team in receptions, yards, and touchdowns (58/736/6) last fall.

For the Warriors to pull off the upset on the road, they’ll need to establish long, clock-eating drives on the ground to keep Faulkner and the Titans’ high-powered offense on ice. They’re capable of doing that in stretches, but sustaining it for four quarters is another matter. North Oconee’s balance, experience, and explosiveness make them tough to slow down for long. Prediction: Titans by 12.

The Skinny

Fellowship Christian looks ready for another deep playoff push after last season’s Class 3A-A Private semifinal run. The Paladins dominated region play and return several key leaders from that region title team. Preseason All-State running back C.J. Givers (1,403 yards, 21 TDs) headlines an offense that already averaged nearly 34 points per game. He’ll run behind a physical line led by Parker Acrey and Red Gilmer, while quarterback Jonathan Granby (2,000+ total yards, 25 TDs) provides a steady dual threat. With experience across the board, Fellowship could be even more explosive in 2025.

Bowdon, fresh off a third straight Class A-D2 state title, must replace its quarterback and top four running backs from an offense that pounded out 259 rushing yards per game. But the Red Devils bring back elite receivers Kaiden Prothro and Jonah Wilson, who combined for 86 catches, 1,713 yards and 29 TDs. Wilson also led the team in sacks, while senior linebacker Josh Davis anchors the defense.

This matchup may hinge on whether Fellowship’s defense can contain Prothro and Wilson — and whether Bowdon can slow the Paladins’ balanced attack. Expect Bowdon to compete, but Fellowship’s experience and firepower give them the edge. Prediction: Fellowship Christian by 9.

The Skinny

The Thomasville Bulldogs spent most of 2024 inside the Top 5 of Class A Division I. Their season ended in the quarterfinals, but with a strong core returning, the Bulldogs are aiming for an even deeper playoff run this fall. Offensively, Thomasville was built on balance and toughness, averaging just over 177 rushing yards per game last year. They return three of their top four ball carriers, giving them plenty of depth in the backfield. Dual-threat quarterback Cam Hill leads the charge after rushing for 572 yards and four touchdowns while also throwing for 1,745 yards and 20 scores. He’ll be joined again by Lavonte Cole (559 yards, 14 TDs) and Leeland Chapman (271 yards, 4 TDs), who add depth and production to the ground game. The Bulldogs will need to replace their top two receivers from last season, but rising talents A.J. Hill, Nigel Pitman, and Demario Sawyer are expected to step into larger roles. Defensively, Cam Hill’s versatility shows again — he returns as one of the team’s leading tacklers, alongside linebacker Joe Douglass, providing stability on both sides of the ball.

On the other side, Brooks County also spent most of 2024 among the elite, ranked inside the Top 5 in Class A Division II. The Trojans’ season ended in heartbreak, falling to Bowdon in the state championship game, but the pieces are there for another title run. Junior quarterback Junior Burrus headlines the offense after throwing for 2,464 yards and 29 touchdowns. His chemistry with top target George Lamons — who hauled in 63 receptions for 1,340 yards and 20 TDs — gives Brooks one of the most dangerous passing combos in the state. Look for Traeviss Stevenson to take a step forward as well after posting 29 catches for 244 yards as a sophomore. The Trojans do face one big question: replacing graduated 2,000-yard rusher Chris Cole. However, junior back Damari Baynard is poised for a breakout season and will get the first crack at carrying the load.

Both teams return experience and offensive weapons, meaning Friday night could turn into a high-scoring affair. Burrus and the Trojans will test the Thomasville secondary through the air, but the Bulldogs’ physical ground game has the tools to control the tempo and wear down Brooks County over four quarters. Prediction: Thomasville by 8.

The Skinny

North Gwinnett rolled through the 2024 regular season unbeaten and reached the quarterfinals, but big questions remain on offense after graduating their top passer, rusher, and two leading receivers. The offensive line, anchored by UGA commit Zach Lewis, should help ease the transition, while the defense remains the team’s backbone. Connor Coxwell (7 sacks) returns on the line, with linebackers Jake Godfree and Ethan Robinson leading the tackling corps, and All-Region DBs Chauncey Davis and Drew Gist patrolling a secondary that helped hold opponents to just over 14 points per game last fall.

Douglas County is chasing a third straight semifinal trip — and a first title game since 1964. New QB Mike Johnson, a proven dual-threat (2,700+ pass yards, 480 rush yards, 34 total TDs last year), inherits a loaded skill group headlined by WRs Aaron Gregory (914 yards, 9 TDs) and Devin Carter (669 yards, 5 TDs), plus RB Jamarcus Lindley (1,224 yards, 14 TDs). The Tigers also bring back defensive standouts, led by Jordan Carter (13 sacks), LB Steven Jones, and a deep secondary featuring Adryan Cole, Kennedy Green, and Jamar Owens.

If North Gwinnett can establish its ground game early, they have a shot to slow the Tigers and control the tempo. But Douglas County’s depth and experience on both sides of the ball make them tough to crack. Prediction: Douglas County by 10.

Posted in GHSA Weekly Football Previews - Eight Greats Around the State | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Eight Greats Around the State: GHSA Football Week-1 Previews – Part I

Posted on August 13, 2025 by admin

The 2025 high school football season kicks off with a smattering of games on Wednesday and Thursday before the action heats up on Friday, capped by the Corky Kell Classic at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday. Here are our headlines for Part I of Week-1’s Eight Greats Around the State:

Buford vs. Milton – Buford opens its $62M Phillip Beard Stadium vs. defending 7A champ Milton. Wolves seek revenge for last year’s season-opening loss.

LaGrange vs. Cass – Semifinalist LaGrange meets a talented Cass squad in Rome. The Colonels feature Power 4 prospects Bear McWhorter (OL) and Brodie McWhorter (QB).

Rome vs. Creekside – Clash of 5A & 4Apowers. Rome looks to repeat as region champs; 2024 semifinalist Creekside brings back key veterans.

Colquitt County vs. Benedictine – Colquitt leans on RB Jae Lamar; Benedictine counters with QB Stephen Cannon and DE LaDamion Guyton in a potential playoff-level matchup.

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

The Skinny


The Buford Wolves will christen their state-of-the-art Phillip Beard Stadium this Thursday, and all eyes will be on a team looking to make another deep playoff run. Last season, Buford averaged 38.7 points per game, led by quarterback Dayton Raiola, who threw for 1,953 yards and 19 touchdowns with just three interceptions. The Wolves will need to replace their top two running backs from a year ago, but Dylan McCoy and Ty Green look poised to form the next dynamic one-two punch in the backfield. Defensively, Bryce Perry-Wright will be key, returning after recording a team-high nine sacks as a junior, ready to disrupt opposing offenses and set the tone on that side of the ball.

Milton, meanwhile, comes off a perfect season capped by a Class 5A state championship, but this year is a bit of a rebuilding effort. The Eagles lose much of last year’s offensive production, and junior quarterback Derrick Baker will be tasked with leading the offense. Baker will have reliable weapons in tight end Grant Haviland and will be protected upfront by anchor Madden Mones. On defense, Milton returns some experience in linebackers Billy Weivoda and Tristan Lester, who should help stabilize the unit.

Last season, Milton narrowly edged Buford on the road, with experience playing a big role in that victory. This season, however, the pendulum appears to have swung in Buford’s favor. While the Eagles will compete and not be afraid of the moment, the Wolves’ talent and depth give them the edge in this early-season showdown. Prediction: Buford by 11.

The Skinny

The LaGrange Grangers are coming off one of their most memorable seasons in two decades, reaching the semifinals by winning three straight road playoff games. With that momentum, the Grangers look to build on their recent success, returning all-region quarterback Dylan Barber. The senior signal-caller will be tasked with guiding LaGrange on another deep playoff push. Barber will have a talented supporting cast, including top playmakers Jardon Stringer and Zy Huzzie, who contribute on offense, defense, and special teams. Anchoring the offensive line is Carson Shattuck, helping the Grangers maintain a strong, balanced attack. Last year, LaGrange averaged 34.4 points per game while holding opponents to just 16 points per contest, and much of that core is back for 2025.

The Cass Colonels made the postseason for the fourth consecutive season in 2024, a testament to head coach Steve Gates’ consistency and program-building. This year, Cass is aiming even higher and will lean heavily on senior quarterback Brody McWhorter, a pre-season all-state selection who has already committed to Mississippi State. Anchoring the offensive line is Bear McWhorter, also a pre-season all-state selection and Michigan-bound, providing stability and leadership upfront. Tight end Chase Tatum and running back Braylon Hill will complement the offense, giving Brody multiple weapons to move the chains.

This matchup has all the makings of a high-scoring affair. LaGrange boasts a slight edge in playmakers at receiver, but Brody McWhorter’s experience and leadership make Cass a formidable opponent. Expect fireworks on both sides of the ball, but the Grangers’ overall balance and depth give them the nod in a close one. Prediction: LaGrange by 6.

The Skinny

The Rome Wolves had a turbulent start to 2024, including a bus accident after a preseason scrimmage and dropping their first three games. But Rome rebounded, stringing together eight straight wins to reach the second round of the playoffs. Coach Reid’s squad returns hungry, led by dual-quarterback threat senior Braxton Anderson and junior Aidan McPherson, who threw for 1,400 yards and 13 touchdowns as a sophomore. Both earned all-region honors last season. Rome’s offensive weapons also include Jeremy Winston and Darnell Collins, while Jyquice McCrary will contribute on both sides of the ball. On defense, Dash Kenebrew is poised for a breakout season as an edge rusher. With balanced talent and depth, the Wolves are poised for another deep playoff run.

The Creekside Seminoles also had early-season setbacks in 2024, including a canceled game against Rome and losses to out-of-state opponents like DeSoto, Texas. They bounced back with 10 straight wins, including three playoff victories, advancing to the Class 4A semifinals before a narrow six-point loss. Creekside averaged 38.2 points per game and held region opponents to 25 points across seven contests. Quarterback Cayden Benson returns after throwing for 2,395 yards and 30 TDs while rushing for 1,085 yards and 12 scores. Defensively, Cassius Burch and Tavarre Terrell combined for 29 sacks, with Major Levell leading the team in tackles.

This matchup pits Creekside’s defensive front against Rome’s quarterback duo, while the Wolves must contain the explosive Benson. Expect a high-scoring, entertaining game, with Rome’s experience and depth giving them the edge at home. Prediction: Rome by 8.

The Skinny

The Colquitt County Packers kick off their 2025 campaign aiming to return to region title form. After back-to-back region championships in 2023 and 2024, the Packers bring back plenty of talent to keep the pressure on other Region-1 contenders. All eyes will be on Jae Lamar, who takes over as the primary running back after rushing for 885 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. Sophomore quarterback Cohen Lawson returns for another shot at leading the Pack, having thrown for 1,099 yards and 9 touchdowns in 2024. Malik Walker, the team’s leading receiver last year with 318 yards, will be a key target, while the defense is anchored by safety Alfonso McNeil, linebacker Brayden Ruis, and defensive back Ry’Sheed Fuller.

The Benedictine Cadets step up in classification in Week-1, facing perennial 6A powerhouse Colquitt. The Cadets have made the quarterfinals in 11 of the last 12 seasons and return quarterback Stephon Cannon, who threw for 1,352 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. Bubba Frazier (46 receptions, 753 yards, 5 TDs) and Joshua Washington (37 receptions, 566 yards, 5 TDs) return as his top targets. In the backfield, Stanley Smart Jr. adds 730 rushing yards and 3 TDs from his sophomore season, while Frazier also contributes 604 rushing yards and 8 TDs. Defensively, sack leader Kameron Codyand leading tackler Isaiah Jones return, with the addition of LaDamion Guyton, one of the state’s top junior pass rushers.

This game is a true test of skill and depth. Colquitt’s offensive line will face its toughest challenge yet against Guyton and Cody, while Benedictine will look to exploit any gaps on defense. Expect a competitive ballgame between two teams who will certainly be in the top off their respective classifications alls season. Prediction: Benedictine by 3.

Posted in GHSA Weekly Football Previews - Eight Greats Around the State | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

2025 GHSA Football Rankings – Preseason Rankings

Posted on August 10, 2025 by admin

We begin our coverage of the 2025 GHSA Football season with our Preseason Poll. Can any of the teams go wire to wire this season? Will we have a repeat champ in any classification? Is there a dark horse that we swung and missed on?

There are so many questions; so much promise and of course some heartbreak along the road to the Benz. This is shaping up to be another fantastic GHSA Football season. Only team will who will have the answers and who will host the GHSA championship trophy in December. Cheers to another fantastic high school football season in the great state of Georgia.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A – Division 1

A – Division 2

Private 3A-A

Posted in Turd Ferguson Report - Weekly Power Rankings | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GHSA Football Rankings – Week 12

Posted on November 3, 2024 by admin

Week-12 has come and gone and boy oh boy were we treated to some fantastic action on Friday night. Typically, this would have ben the end of the regular season, but there will be some makeup games this coming week due to Hurricane Helene earlier this fall. Here is our look at the Top-10 teams in each classification for GHSA Football.

Class 6A featured a couple of Top-10 matchups on Friday as Carrollton downed Douglas County while Buford beat Mill Creek. Carrollton and Buford remain in the top two spot in the rankings. Douglas County drops two spots to No. 7 while Mill Creek falls to No. 10. Lowndes picked up a big win in the Winnersville Classic as they defeated Valdosta by 10. Lowndes is up to No. 9 this week. Class 5A also had a couple of Top-10 matchups as Milton defeated rival Roswell and Thomas County Central defeated Coffee. Roswell stays put at No. 5 even in defeat while Coffee falls to No. 9.

Over in Class 4A, Warner Robins defeated Perry in a Region 1 showdown. The Demons jump two spots to No. 8 as Perry is down two spots to No. 9. Elsewhere, Starr’s Mill was upset on Friday night and as a result, they fall from the rankings this week. That makes way for Cedartown to make their first appearance in the rankings at No. 10. Down in Class 3A, Oconee County had the big win as they defeated Region 8 foe Jefferson on Friday night. The win catapults Oconee County up to No. 4 this week while Jefferson falls to No. 5. Meanwhile, Douglass and LaGrange were upset on Friday night as both of those teams drop from the rankings. That made room for the Stephenson Jagaurs (No. 10) and the Upson-Lee Knights (No. 9) to make their debut into the rankings.

Class 2A had three Top-10 matchups this past Friday. It was Appling County upsetting then No. 1 ranked Pierce County. Callaway upset Morgan County, while Prince Avenue Christian topped Hebron Christian. The new No. 1 team in Class 2A this week is Carver-Columbus. Appling County was one of the biggest movers as they jump from No. 6 to No. 3. Callaway is also up three spots to No. 6.

Down in Class A Division I, it was Savannah Christian outlasting Toombs County. The Raiders take over the No. 1 spot while Toombs County drop one spot to No. 2. Fellowship Christian sneaks into the rankings at No. 10 after Fitzgerald was upset on Friday night and drops from the Top-10. Finally, Class A Division II saw Irwin County edge Brooks County in a battle of Top-10 teams. In the other two Top-10 matchups, it was Lincoln County downing Greene County while Bowdon beat Trion.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A – DIVISION I

A – DIVISION II

Posted in 2024 Top-10 Rankings | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GHSA Football Rankings – Week 11

Posted on October 27, 2024 by admin

We have entered the penultimate week of the GHSA regular season. For most teams, this will be the last week of the regular season. For others, there will be makeup games played on November 8th. While playoff seeding is independent of rankings, here is our outlook of the Top-10 teams in each classification.

In Class 6A, the topsy turvy Region-1 is starting to take shape as Lowndes, Valdosta, and Colquitt County are currently in a 3-way tie for first place. Lowndes kept pace with Valdosta and Colquitt with a win over Richmond Hill last week and is back in the rankings at No. 10 this week. Norcross dropped from the rankings after losing to North Gwinnett. There were no other changes to the rankings in 6A. Over in Class 5A Roswell outlasted Gainesville in a region game that involved two Top-10 teams. The win shoots Roswell up to No. 5 this week, while Gainesville drops two places to No. 7. Next week, Roswell travels to No. 1 Milton to determine the Region-7 champion.

Class 4A had some shake up as Ware County is back in the rankings as they have been in and out of the Top-10 all season. The Gators downed Warner Robins on Friday and move back into the Top-10 at No. 8. The loss drops the Demons down to No. 10, falling five spots.

Perhaps the biggest upset of the week came in Class 3A as No. 1 Sandy Creek was upset by Mary Persons on Friday night. The loss drops the Patriots down to No. 4. The new No. 1 this week is the Peach County Trojans. Meanwhile, Jefferson inched closer to a region title, as they knocked off Cherokee Bluff in a battle of Region 8 Top-10 teams. The win catapults Jefferson up to No. 2 this week while Cherokee Bluff falls to No. 8. The Cairo Syrupmakers fall from the Top-10 after they were soundly defeated by the aforementioned Peach County. That made room for the Westover Patriots to climb into the rankings for the first time this season.

Down in Class 2A, there were no changes to the rankings as all of the Top-10 teams in action came away victorious. In Class A-Division I, Northeast Macon defeated Dodge County in a battle of Top-10 teams. The win moves the Raiders up to No. 7 this week, while Dodge County falls from the rankings. Checking in at No. 10 this week for the first time this season is the Worth County Rams. Finally, in Class A-Division II, Lincoln County blanked Warren County in a battle of Top-10 teams. The loss drops the Screaming Devils from the Top-10, which made room for the Early County Bobcats to make their debut in the Top-10. The Bobcats wrapped up the Region 1 title with a win over Mitchell County on Friday night.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A DIVISION I

A DIVISION II

Posted in 2024 Top-10 Rankings, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GHSA Football Rankings – Week 10

Posted on October 20, 2024 by admin

We have reached the final quarter of the high school football season. There are some pivotal matchups that will determine many of the region titles that are up for grabs. Last week there were some surprises and we did have a No. 1 team that was upset on Friday Night. Here is our ranking of each classification in the state of Georgia.

The big news in Class 6A is the topsy turvy Region 1, as Richmond Hill upset Valdosta to force a four way tie for first place with those two teams along with Colquitt County and Lowndes. The loss by Valdosta made way for Norcross to sneak back in to the Top-10 at No. 10 this week. In Class 5A, Coffee defeated region rival Houston County in a battle of Top-10 teams. That win be Coffee knocked Houston out of the rankings and made room for an idle Sprayberry team to make their first appearance in the rankings this season.

In Class 4A, Perry got a big region win in a battle of Top-10 teams. The Panthers downed Ware County, knocking Ware out of the Top-10 and making room for an undefeated Starr’s Mill team. Meanwhile, in Class 3A, Cherokee Bluff Knocked off Oconee County in a battle of Top-10 region foes. The loss drops Oconee County to No. 10 this week and moves Cario up one spot. The rest of the rankings remain the same.

Over in Class 2A, Hebron Christian scored a big region victory over Stephens County. The win has Hebron in the rankings for the first time this season as they debut at No. 7. Stephens County drops to No. 10. There was no change in the Class A Division I as all of the Top-10 teams were victorious. Finally in Class A-Division II, Clinch County scored the big upset as they defeated Irwin County ending the Indians 7 game win streak. The win has Clinch up to No. 5 this week. Meanwhile, Irwin County is down to No. 6 and the Manchester Blue Devils take over the No. 1 spot this week.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A – DI

A- DII

Posted in 2024 Top-10 Rankings | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GHSA Football Rankings – Week 9

Posted on October 13, 2024 by admin

As we move into mid-October, it’s time to really start taking a look at region races. Last week provided some big matchups that will go along way in determining playoff seedings. Some of those matchups included Top-10 matchups, especially in the higher classifications. Here is our take on the GHSA rankings after Week-9 of the regular season in Georgia High School Football.

In Class 6A, there were two Top-10 matchups, as Valdosta downed Colquitt 7-3 in a defensive battle, while Collins Hill edged Mill Creek 13-12. Valdosta stays put at No. 5 while Collins Hill moves up two spots to No. 7. Colquitt drops one spot to No. 9 while Mill Creek dropped two spots to No. 8. Carrollton remains atop the rankings, as they’ve been all season.

Over in Class 5A, there were also two top-10 matchups, as Milton beat Gainesville 42-28, while Lee County beat Coffee 48-14. Milton stays atop the poll, (as they have been alll season), while the loss drops Gainesville two spots to No 5. Meanwhile, Lee County stays at No. 2, while Coffee drops to No. 7. Hughes also had a big win over Newnan; that moves Hughes all the way up to No. 3 this week.

Class 4A also featured one top-10 game, and also featured a game with two high profile teams. North Oconee edged Eastside by 5 while unranked Ware County knocked off Class 4A power, Benedictine 38-14. North Oconee’s win moved them up three spots to No. 6, while Ware County is back in the rankings at No. 9 this week. Eastside drops to No. 7 and Benedictine falls from the rankings this week. There were no changes to the rankings in Class 3A or Class 2A.

Class A Division-I also had two matchups featuring Top-10 teams; Dublin defeated Northeast 17-7 and Thomasville beat rival Fitzgerald 23-8. Dublin stays put at No. 3, while Thomasville checks in at No. 6, (up four spots this week). Conversely, Northeast falls three spots to No. 9 and Fitzgerald drops from No. 7 to No. 10.

Finally, in Class A Division-II, there was only one game featuring two Top-10 teams, as Brooks County beat Clinch County 42-12. Brooks County moves up one spot to No. 6, while Clinch drops from No. 6 to No. 10.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A DIVISION – I

A DIVISION – II

Posted in 2024 Top-10 Rankings | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GHSA Football Rankings – Week 8

Posted on October 6, 2024 by admin

We continue on with the high school football season in the state of Georgia. Many communities across the state continue to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene that barreled through Georgia last Thursday. We remember those communities and they are certainly in our thoughts. As a result of the storm, the GHSA has pushed the start of the playoffs back one week to October 8th and 9th. This week, there were a few surprises and the action always gets ratcheted up withe region playoff seedings on the line. Here are our GHSA Football rankings after this weekends action.

In Class 6-A, Lowndes and Camden County are out of the rankings as they both lost to region opponents. Colquitt County, who edged Lowndes by 3, is back in the rankings at No. 8 this week. Grayson also makes their way back in the rankings at No. 10 this week. In Class 5-A, there were no changes in the rankings as all of the ranked teams that played won. Over in Class 4-A, Benedictine knocked off two ranked teams last week, defeating Warner Robins and Ware County. Ware County falls from the rankings, making room for an undefeated Cambridge team to make their way into our rankings for the first time this season.

Class 3-A saw a lot of changes at the bottom of the rankings, as Troup, Whitewater and Heritage (Catoosa) all suffered defeat and fell from the rankings. Those results made room for LaGrange (No. 7), Oconee County (No. 9) and Cairo (No. 10) all make their first appearance in the rankings this week. In Class 2-A, there were no changes in the rankings. Prince Avenue did beat Stephens County in a battle of ranked teams, but the Indians stay at No. 5 even in defeat.

Down in Class A – Division I, It was Commerce, who continues to rack up big wins. The Tigers find themselves in the rankings at No. 9 this week after defeating previously ranked Rabun County. Meanwhile, there were no changes in the Class A – Division II rankings this week.

As always, thanks for reading. While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss any of our coverage. Please feel free to comment and share.

Special thanks to the Georgia Helmet Project for providing each team’s helmet. You can find all of their work here: http://gahelmetproject.com

Historical records are provided by the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. (ghsfa.org)

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

CLASS A – DIVISION I

CLASS A – DIVISION II

Posted in 2024 Top-10 Rankings | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment