Week 11 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

Part two of our Cherokee County Football previews has been published below. There are two county teams still in contention on Region 6-6A. First up, the Sequoyah Chiefs travel to Harrison to take on one of the top teams in the state. Sequoyah needs to win out to make the playoffs. Can they shock the State and the Hoyas this week? Next up, River Ridge and South Cobb will face off as they both look to close out their season on a high note. Finally, Creekview hosts Sprayberry. The Grizzlies can clinch a playoff spot with a win this week and a Sequoyah loss. Please make sure to get out and support these young men on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading.  Comments and discussion are always welcome!

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Harrison Hoyas will host the Sequoyah Chiefs for a chance to officially secure the region title. Most of the Hoyas games have not even been close this season, with the lone scare, (a 4-point victory), coming at the hands of the Allatoona Buccaneers. The Hoyas defense has shut out two of their opponents and is only allowing 9.3 points per game. Meanwhile, their offense, led by quarterback Gavin Hall, is averaging 39.7 points per game. The Hoyas were off last week and should be well rested to defend against the Chiefs rushing attack.

Sequoyah’s Jaden Mitchell got going last week with two long scoring runs. Mitchell has now rushed for 721 yards and 5-TDs. Riley Gutmann and Aidan Moore have added 401 yards and 3-TDs on the ground. Miles McGee leads the Chiefs in receiving with 334 yards and 2-TDs. Defensively, Christian Kirby (48 tackles), Christian Hodgins (47 tackles) and Grant Gibson (44 tackles) lead the team in total tackles. A win by the Chiefs will keep them in playoff contention. We believe it’s possible, but unfortunately for my Chiefs, not probable. We like the Hoyas by 16.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The River Ridge Knights play their last home game of the season as they host the South Cobb Eagles. The Knights were off last week and certainly seem to be playing much better defensively. They held Sequoyah to one offensive touchdown and were on the cusp of a potential game-tying touchdown two weeks ago before an untimely turnover sealed their fate. Look for the Knights to establish Amehre Morrison on the ground. He has rushed for 737 yards and caught 26 passes for 321 yard and 5-TDs this season.

 

South Cobb closes out their season this week. It has been a tough road for the Eagles. Their schedule included 4 Top-10 teams, three of them in Region 6-6A. The Eagles are averaging 13.1 points per game, but their defense is allowing 40.4 points per game. We believe the Knights should have plenty of opportunities to get into the end zone. And we believe they will capitalize on them as well. We like River Ridge by 23.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

While there are still plenty of variables for seeding in Region 6-6A, the Creekview Grizzlies can secure a playoff berth with a win Friday against Sprayberry and a Sequoyah loss. Last time out, the Grizzlies blanked South Cobb. It was their first shutout of the season. Brody Rhodes has now passed for 1,274 yards, rushed for 395 yards and accounted for 16-TDs. Ethan Dirrim has 43 receptions for 666 yards and 12 Total TDs. The Grizzlies defense is now up to 39.5 sacks as a team. Isaac Hubert and Nick Weeks lead the way in that category with 8.5 and 7 sacks respectively.

 

The Sprayberry Yellow Jackets are looking to bounce back and further muddy the waters in the playoff race. A week after a stellar defensive performance against Dalton, the Jackets could not contain the Chiefs rushing attack. In order for Sprayberry to have a chance to knock off Creekview, they must find a way to get Josh Bush and Damarion Owens going on offense. We believe that Sprayberry will get some things going this week, but Creekview’s defense will be the difference. We like the Grizzlies by 10.

 

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Week 11 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews Part 1 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

Part one of our Cherokee County Football Previews feature the Region 4-7A matchups. Up first, Etowah hosts Lassiter as the Eagles look to bounce back after a loss two weeks ago. Lassiter can certainly play spoiler this week to the Eagles. Next up, the Cherokee Warriors travel to face the Walton Raiders. These teams are part of a four-way tie for first place the region. This game features two talented quarterbacks, Cherokee’s A.J. Swann and Walton’s Zak Rozsman. Which one of these signal callers will guide there team to victory? Finally, the Woodstock Wolverines will host the Roswell Hornets. Woodstock has been improved over the second half of the season, but can they put points on the board against a very strong Roswell defense? Please make sure to get out and support these young men on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading.  Comments and discussion are always welcome!

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Etowah Eagles host the Lassiter Trojans this week as they continue to jockey for position in Region 4-7A. Etowah was off last week and will look to regroup after a loss against Walton. The Eagles have several weapons on offense including the county’s leading passer Dalton Miller (1,971 passing yards). Miller’s top receiver is Jackson Manns (668 yards). Remington Adams, Klivert Many, and Nick Maddox are all threats in the run game. The Eagles offense is averaging 27.7 points per game, while their defense is allowing 28.1 points per game.

 

It has been a long season for the Lassiter Trojans. They really haven’t been able to get much going on offense this season. Last week, their touchdown came from special teams. The Trojans are averaging 5.3 points per game while they are surrendering 28.2 points per game. Lassiter is probably a little outmanned this week. We like Etowah by 24.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Walton Raiders host the Cherokee Warriors this Friday night. Both teams are sitting in a four-way tie for 1st place. We won’t even begin to try to breakdown the scenarios here, but we do know that a win this week would almost guaranty a home playoff game for either team. Last week, Kenny Djaha was the workhouse for Walton as he rushed for 150 yards. Djaha, Julian Bumper and K.D. Stokes have made for a formidable rushing attack for the Raiders. Quarterback Zak Rozsman had the Raiders only score last week, but he has shown in recent weeks that he can make several throws. Teagan Bierra is one of his top targets.

 

The Cherokee Warriors would more than likely claim their first region title since 2002 with a win on Friday night and at minimum, clinch a home playoff game if they win out. The Warriors were off last week after a win against county foe, Woodstock. Keith Adams, Jr. had a big game last time out as he rushed for 135 yards and 1-TD in the win. On the season, he has rushed for 709 yards and 6-TDs. We’ve said it before, but the telltale sign for a Cherokee victory has ben their ability to turn teams over. In every victory this season, they’ve forced multiple turnovers…in both losses, they’ve not forced any. The Warriors haven’t won at Walton since 2002. We expect a defensive struggle, but something tells us not to bet against Zak Rozsman. With that said…Raiders by 2.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Woodstock Wolverines got a big Region win last week as they try to keep pace with the other four teams ahead of them in the standings. This week they’ll host the Roswell Hornets in a must win game if they want to keep any playoff hopes alive. The Wolverines seemed to have turned the corner over the last four games and while they’ve gone .500 during that stretch, they’ve been competitive and had a chance to win those two games they lost. They led in both of those games at one point.

 

Meanwhile, the Roswell Hornets come into this game needing a win to keep pace with Walton, Cherokee and Etowah. The Hornets scored a big overtime win last week against Walton. Roswell has used a balanced attack this season en route to averaging 27.7 points per game. Ethan Roberts has passed for 989 yards and 10-TDs, while Nnamdi Orijoke and Savion McCrary have combined for 711 yards and 11-TDs on the ground. Marquis Willis (26 receptions, 349 yards, 3-TDs) and John Copenhaver (32 receptions, 246 yards, 1-TD) lead the team in receiving. The Hornets Defense is allowing only 8.5 points per game with three shutouts. The defense has also recorded 32 sacks. Caden Bondurant is responsible for 9 of those. With Woodstock’s propensity to throw the ball, the Hornets will be looking to add to those sack numbers. Roswell’s defense is pretty darn good. And that’s why we like the Hornets this week by 16.

 

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Week – 11 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

This is Part II of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. Several games this week will help determine playoff seeding. Our first preview features the two top teams in Region 8-6A as Lanier hosts Dacula. Both teams are highly rated in Class 6A. Can Lanier breakthrough and finally get a win against the Falcons. Next up, The Battle of Hog Mountain will take place in Bogart as North Oconee hosts Oconee County for the 8-4A region title. This game features a great quarterback duel between North Oconee’s Bubba Chandler and Oconee County’s Max Johnson. In Class A Region 6, North Cobb Christian hosts the Darlington Tigers. Darlington has already secured the sub region title, but a perfect record is on the line this week. North Cobb Christian won this tilt last season; can Darlington return the favor? Finally, in Region 7-4A, Marist hosts Blessed Trinity. Blessed Trinity has had Marists’number in the series. The winner of this game will earn the region title. Can the Ware Eagles slow down the Blessed trinity dynamic duo at running back. Or will Connor Cigelske lead the War Eagles to victory?  As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Lanier Longhorns are looking for their first win over the Dacula Falcons and their first region title since 2015. Taj Barnes has led the way on the ground for the Longhorns as he’s rushed for 1,108 yards and 13-TDs. Quarterback Andrew Blackford has passed for 1,022 yards and 15-TDs. Cole Thornton has been his primary target with 25 receptions, 478 yards, and 9-TDs. The Longhorns offense is averaging 32.2 points per game while their defense is allowing 11.7 points per game. The Lanier defense has 29 sacks on the season; Phillip Webb leads the way with 10.

 

The Dacula Falcons are one of the top ranked teams in the state and with a win this week, they will almost certainly lay claim to their 4th consecutive region title. Trenton Jones and Kyle Efford have combined for 1,224 yards rushing and 16-TDs. Quarterback Jarrett Jenkins has passed for 1,395 yards and 10-TDs. Konata Mumpfield leads the team in receiving (26 receptions, 414 yards, 6-TDs) and interceptions (3). The Dacula defense is allowing 9.9 points per game. They’ve shut out four opponents and have not allowed a touchdown in 11 quarters. This game should be closer than the previous three, but we still like the Falcons by 6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The North Oconee Titans will host the Oconee County Warriors for the Region 8-4A title. The Titans are off to their best start since 2011. They are averaging 38.3 points per game this season. Entering last week’s game, Bubba Chandler has passed for over 1,300 yards. The UGA baseball commit has put up some bug numbers this season. The Titans area allowing 11.5 points per game and have one shutout to their credit.

 

Meanwhile, the Oconee County Warriors are looking for their first region title since 2015. The Warriors are averaging 28.5 points per game and are led by LSU QB commit, Max Johnson. Ben Noland and Jake Johnson are his two top receivers while Jimmy Boswell and Darius Norman are the teams leading rushers. The Oconee County Defense is allowing 12.6 points per game. We like for Bubba to outduel Max this week. Titans by 9.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Darlington Tigers have already clinched the sub-region title. The Tigers are outscoring their opponents this season 297-69. They have three shutouts to their credit. Griffin Brewster was very efficient last week completing 10 of his 12 pass attempts for 147 yards and a touchdown. Running back Kolin Rogers has rushed for over 1,000 yards on the season and has the benefit of running behind an OL anchored by Tate Ratledge and Cade Brock.

 

While North Cobb Christian can’t derail the Tigers sub region title, they can derail their perfect season. Last week, the Eagles were edged by Christian Heritage on a blocked PAT. The Eagles two losses have come at a combined 7 points. Defensively, North Cobb is allowing 11.2 points per game. The big question is whether or not the Eagles can get the ground game moving against Darlington. Last week, the Eagles fumbled the ball three times, so they’ll certainly have to make ball security a priority this weekend if they are going to pull the upset. Even if North Cobb doesn’t turn it over, we still like Darlington to win this one by 10 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marist War Eagles will host the Blessed Trinity Titans this week. A War Eagle victory would secure their first region title in two years. The Marist defense has been stifling this season, allowing only 6.8 points per game. They’ve shut out four of their opponents this season. Connor Cigelske had another big game last week as he rushed for 171 yards and passed for 112 yards with 4 total TDs. The Marist defense also forced two turnovers last week in the victory.

 

The Blessed Trinity Titans are also in search of their second consecutive region title. With a win this week and next, the Titans will have done just that. Similar to the Marist, the Titans have relied heavily on the run. Freshman Justice Haynes has led the way on the ground this season. But the Titans also have a healthy Elijah Green in the backfield as well, which makes for a very dangerous combination for opposing defenses. The Titans offense is averaging 29.6 points per game while their defense is allowing only 14.7 points per game. The largest margin of victory in this series is 9 points. We think this is another defensive battle, but we like Marist by a field goal this week

 

 

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Week – 11 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 1 of 2

Posted on October 31, 2019 by admin

This is Part I of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. Several games this week will help determine playoff seeding. Our first preview features a big show down in Region 2-3A as the Pierce County Bears host the Appling County Pirates. Pierce is looking for their second consecutive region title, but Coach Tomberlin has the Pirates playing well. So, who’s rushing attack will reign supreme Friday night? In Region 3-5A, the Riverdale Raiders host the Starr’s Mill Panthers. The Raiders only loss is a 13-point setback to highly ranked Carrollton. But Starr’s Mill has won the last three region titles and looks like they aren’t quite ready to release their stranglehold on the region. Another big game for seeding takes place in Region 3-7A as Marietta takes on Hillgrove. Both of these teams were edged by McEachern, but a win this week by either team would help secure at least a first round home playoff game. Finally, Region 1-7A comes down to a matchup between Lowndes and Colquitt County. Since 2014 Colquitt has won the region all but one time and that was in 2017, when the Vikings claimed the Region title. Will the Packers air assault or the Vikings ground game rule the night in this matchup?  As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

We’ve been catching a little flack about our No. 1 Ranking for Pierce County. But all the Bears have done this season is win. Certainly the most difficult part of their schedule is in front of them, and the Appling County Pirates should present a stiff test. The Bears are averaging 43.2 points per game and are allowing 10.2 points per game. L.J. Newton has rushed for 665 yards and 10-TDs. Quarterback Jermaine Brewton has passed for 977 yards and 9-TDs and has added 295 yards and 4-TDs rushing.

 

The Appling County Pirates are off to their best start since 2011. Coach Rick Tomberlin has the Pirates in a position to compete for a region title if they can win their last two games. As a team, Appling County has racked up 2,284 yards rushing. Sharrod Roberts (536 yards, 7-TDs) and R.J. Conaway (465 yards, 6-TDs) lead the ground attack. Keyshawn Walker and Matthew Nails have combined for 14 receptions for 311 yards and 4-TDs. The Pirates are only allowing 10.3 points per game this season and have two shutouts. We believe Pierce survives a scare from Appling this week. Bears by 2.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Riverdale Raiders are off to another great start in region play, but this week begins a two game stretch that will determine if the Raiders can capture their first region title since 1998. Quarterback Avaun Rucker has passed for 1,063 yards and 13-TDs. His leading receiver has been Derwin Burgess with 22 receptions for 386 yards and 5-TDs. Meanwhile, Phalon Daniels (741 yards, 8-TDs) and Malik Harris (575 yards, 11-TDs) lead the Raiders ground game. As a team they’ve rushed for 1,867 yards. The defense is allowing 16.1 points per game, but perhaps most impressive are the 15 interceptions they’ve made. Sophomore Larrence George leads the team with 3 picks.

 

The Starr’s Mill Panthers have won the last three region titles, but will need to win out in order to claim their 4th consecutive title. The Panthers will look to get their ground game going this week. Kalen Sims (784 yards, 4-TDs) and Ben Bodne (646 yards, 12-TDs) lead the way for the Panthers who have rushed for 2,071 yards as a team. Starr’s Mill has only passed for 331 yards this season. The Starr’s Mill defense is allowing 12.8 points per game and has two shutouts to their credit. This game should be much closer than last hears 23-point Starr’s Mill victory…but we still like the Panthers by 8 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

As it stands right now, this game does not have region title implications, assuming McEachern remains undefeated. However, a home playoff game could be at stake when the Marietta Blue Devils host the Hillgrove Hawks this Friday. The Blue Devils have a star-studded offense that is led by quarterback Harrison Bailey (2,314 yards passing, 23-TDs), tight end Arik Gilbert (48 receptions, 925 yards 8-TDs), receiver Ricky White (46 receptions, 677 yards, 8-TDs) and running back Kimani Vidal (734 yards, 15-TDs). The defense is allowing 20.2 points per game. B.J. Ojulari leads the way on defense with 75 total tackles and 12 sacks.

 

The Hillgrove Hawks were perhaps robbed of a go-ahead touchdown against McEachern early in October, but there is no time to cry over spilled milk. Outside of the McEachern game, the Hawks have dominated most of their opponents, save for an overtime win against a gritty Etowah team. Hillgrove is averaging 33.6 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 13.2 points per game. Even with two high scoring offenses, we believe points will be at a premium this week. We like the Blue Devils at home by a field goal.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Lowndes will host Colquitt County with the Region 1-7A title on the line. Lowndes has dominated their opponents this season outscoring them 368-71. Their closest margin of victory was 24 points. Most of the Vikings offense comes by way of the ground game, as they’ve rushed for 2,478 yards as a team. Sophomore quarterback Jacurri Brown leads the team in passing (715 yards 5-TDs) and rushing (901 yards 11-TDs). Israel Mitchell, Justin Lee and Gary Osby have combined to rush for 1,325 yards and 24-TDs. The Lowndes defense has racked up 31.5 sacks, led by Thomas Davis with 7; meanwhile the secondary has intercepted 9 passes this season.

The Colquitt County Packers only blemish was a one-point loss to Valdosta back in mid-September. The Packers are a little more balanced than the Vikings, but definitely have leaned more on the passing game. Jaycee Harden has thrown for 2,504 yards and 32-TDs. His leading receivers are Lemeke Brockington (38 receptions, 695 yards, 11-TDs), Tyler Walker (37 receptions, 485 yards, 3-TDs), and Tahj Sanders (31 receptions, 493 yards, 7-TDs). Daijun Edwards leads the team in rushing with 777 yards and 9-TDs.  The Packers defense is allowing 12.2 points per game. We believe this will be a back and forth battle, and much closer than last years game, but we like Lowndes to edge the Packers by a touchdown.

 

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Week 10 – GHSA High School Football Poll

Posted on October 27, 2019 by admin

Our Week-10 GHSA High School Football Poll has been published. In 7A, Lowndes continues to roll as they downed Camden County 45-13. The loss drops Camden out of the poll and makes room for Mill Creek at No. 10 this week.

In 6A,  the Lee County Trojans won in an overtime shootout against Valdosta 53-50. The two swapped places in the poll as Lee jumps to No. 2 while Valdosta falls to No. 3. Meanwhile, the Mays Raiders got a big win over Region foe South Paulding 28-7. South Paulding drops from the rankings with the loss making way for the Stephenson Jaguars at No. 10.

In 5A Bainbridge was downed by No. 1 Warner Robins. The loss drops the Bearcats from our poll this week. Their loss also made way for undefeated Riverwood, who comes in at No. 10. This week.  In 4A, most teams held serve, with the exception of Flowery Branch. The Falcons could not solve the Marist triple option this past Friday night. The loss drops the Falcons from the Top-10 and makes way for the undefeated North Oconee Titans at No. 10.

There were no changes to the 3A poll. In 2A the Swainsboro Tigers beat Vidalia 21-9. That loss by Vidalia drops them from the poll this week and the Thomasville Bulldogs return to the Top-10 for the first time in several weeks. The Bulldogs have bounced back from a slow start and have put themselves in great positions to claim a region championship.

In Class A-Public, Bowdon fell to Darlington. That loss drops the Red Devils to No. 10 this week. In a top-5 matchup, the Irwin County Indians shutout the Wilcox County Patriots to retain sole possession of the region lead. The loss dropped the Patriots to No. 6 this week. In Class A-Private, Christian Heritage edged North Cobb Christian 21-20. Christian Heritage remains at No. 6 while North Cobb Christian falls to No. 10. Otherwise, there were no substantive changes to the poll.

Polls are fun and can provide for spirited and healthy conversations and debates. We welcome any and all poll feedback.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Week – 10 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 24, 2019 by admin

This is Part II of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. As we mentioned in Part-I, a lot is at stake this week as the region picture starts to become clearer as we enter the final stretch of the regular season. Our first preview features Irwin County versus Wilcox County. The Indians have not lost a regular season region game since 2016. The Patriots are a formidable opponent, but can they derail the Indians perfect season?  In Region 2-2A, Kade Youmans, the defending region player of the year, leads the Swainsboro Tigers into Vidalia with a chance to get one step closer to repeating as region champs. But don’t expect the Indians to just lay down for Swainsboro. Vidalia has a pretty stingy defense, but will it be enough this week? The Marist War Eagles go on the road to take on Flowery Branch. The War Eagles are in the middle of a 3 game gauntlet in which they face the top teams in the region. They will have their hands full with the Flowery Branch rushing attack. But can the Falcons defense keep the War Eagles in check? Finally, the Jefferson Dragons are looking to stay in sole possession of 1st place in Region 8-3A. Monroe Area got the best of Jefferson last season, but the Dragons are red hot and don’t show any signs of slowing down. Will the Dragons get revenge this week? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 


 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Irwin County and Wilcox County face off for the 28th  time this Friday night down in Ocilla. This series has been one of streaks and currently Irwin County has a six game win streak over Wilcox. The Indians might boast one of the best backfields in the state. Players such as Kam Ward, Gabriel Benyard and Garland Benyard have picked up the slack during DJ Lundy’s absence. However, with the return of Lundy, this group is looking like a team of destiny. The defense has only surrendered 22 points all season, with three shutouts. That’s an average of 3.6 points per game. Yikes!!!

 

The Wilcox County Patriots represent the biggest test for Irwin County left in the season. The Patriots come into the  game with only one loss, a 6-point setback to Clinch County. (A game that Wilcox lead by 12 points at one point.) They are led by Desmond Tisdol, who makes just as many plays on offense as he does on defense. Quarterback Noah Hollingsworth is not a one trick pony, as he can beat the defense with his arm and his legs making the Patriots much more challenging to gameplan for. The Patriots are allowing 9 points per game themselves with four shutouts to their credit. We definitely expect this game to be closer than last year’s matchup. But we think Irwin County is just too deep. We like the Indians by two touchdowns at home.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Swainsboro Tigers and Vidalia Indians will meet for the 74th time this Friday night. The teams first met back in 1925. Last year, the Tigers edged the Indians and claimed their first region title since 2010. Vidalia dropped their first game of the season to 3A Appling County, but since then has won six straight. They are averaging 25.4 points per game on offense and allowing 13.4 points per game on defense.

 

The Swainsboro Tigers are also riding high coming into this week. The only blemish on their record was a Week-3 setback to Dublin. In the 5 games since that loss, Swainsboro has outscored their opponents 194-26. Swainsboro has been pretty balanced on offense this season. Kade Youmans has passed for 1,186 yards and 17-TDs, while the team has rushed for almost 1,200 yards on the season. The Tigers are averaging 34.8 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 10.7 points. We have a feeling this game will be low scoring with two stingy defenses going toe to toe. We like Swainsboro to edge Vidalia this week by 4, perhaps with some late game heroics by the defending region player of the year.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marist War Eagles will travel to Flowery Branch to take on the Flowery Branch Falcons. This might be one of the toughest regions in Class AAAA with the likes of these two teams, Blessed Trinity and Denmark sitting atop the region. Flowery Branch was edged last week in overtime by Blessed Trinity. We have mentioned before how the Falcons have had to reinvent themselves after losing starting quarterback Elijah Gainey in the scrimmage back in August. The Falcons boast one of the best defenses in the region, allowing only 9.7 points per game, while averaging 33.1 points per game on offense. Jaizen Ellingham has been the bellcow for the offense, rushing for over 670 yards and 12-TDs.

 

Meanwhile the War Eagles are again looking like a serious contender for the state title this season. Under coach Allen Chadwick, the War Eagles have not missed the postseason. Connor Cigelske led the way again in last week’s victory with 121 yards passing, 135 yards rushing and 1-TD. Lincoln Parker added two rushing TDs as well along with 73 rushing yards. The Marist defense is allowing only 7.7 points per game with 3 shutouts to their credit. Last week, they kept the high-flying Denmark Danes in check and even scored a defensive touchdown. That’s enough to convince us that Marist should win this game convincingly. We like the War Eagles by 17.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Jefferson Dragons are looking for their first region title in 3 years. Standing in their way is last season’s region champ, the Monroe Area Hurricanes. The Canes dropped a region game to Morgan County, so this is a must win for them to force a three-way tie atop the region. They are lead by dual threat quarterback Selation Straughter Jr. who has passed for 1,141 yards, rushed for 621 yards and accounted for 13-TDs. Danarius Hendricks leads the Canes in receiving with 30 receptions for 446 yards. Monroe Area is averaging just over 28 points per game, while the defense is allowing only 12.8 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, the Jefferson Dragons seem like a team on a mission. After falling to 4A Oconee County in week one by 1-point, the Dragons have reeled off six straight wins. Only one of those has been close. ( A 5-point victory over Hart County.) In region play, the Dragons are averaging 54.7 points per game, while their defense is allowing only 12 points per game. The Dragons have done most of their damage on the ground. Malaki Starks leads the team in rushing with 436 yards and 5-TDs, but quarterback Colby Clark has also rushed for 434 yards, passed for 373 and has accounted for 17-TDs. As a team, the Dragons have rushed for over 2,400 yards. We believe Monroe Area will get points on the board this week, but not enough to outscore Jefferson. We like the Dragons by 13.

 

 

 

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Week – 10 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 1 of 2

Posted on October 23, 2019 by admin

This is Part I of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. A lot is at stake this week as region pictures start to become clearer as we enter the final stretch of the regular season. Our first preview features a clash of titans in Region 1-6A as Valdosta hosts Lee County. These two teams have won the last 3 state titles in class 6-A. Will the Wildcats avenge last year’s drubbing at the hands of Lee County? In Region 5-6A, the Mays Raiders host upstart South Paulding. The Spartans have come from out of nowhere this season to challenge for a region title. Will their aerial assault give the Raiders secondary trouble this week? In a rematch of the 5-A state title game, Bainbridge hosts Warner Robins. The Bearcats have dropped their last two games and things don’t look so peachy with Warner Robins coming to town. Can the Bearcats stop the bleeding with a big win this week? Finally, in Region 2-4A, Mary Persons hosts West Laurens. The West Laurens Raiders look to be a serious contender for the region title this year. But we know Mary Persons won’t go quietly into the night. Is this the Raiders year? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Valdosta and Lee County will tangle this week in a game that should determine the Region 1-6A title. Last season, Lee earned their only win in the series with a resounding 63-7 beat down of the Wildcats. The Trojans had been humming along early until a shocking loss to 3A Peach County. Lee County is still averaging 38.1 points per game while their defense has recorded three shutouts and is allowing only 9.2 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, the Valdosta Wildcats are looking not only to avenge last season’s loss, but also get a stranglehold on the region title. The Cats last won the region title in 2016. Consequently, that year, they also won the state title. Valdosta is averaging 40 points per game while their defense is allowing 18.5 points per game. This game features two of the top quarterbacks in 6A in Lee County’s Kyle Toole and Valdosta’s Tate Rodemaker. The game has all the makings of a knock down, drag out brawl. We like the Cats to win this week. Valdosta by 4.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

While there is still a lot to be decided in Region 5-6A, the winner of the Mays-South Paulding game might just secure the region title. Since their week-1 loss to Kell by 5 points, the Mays Raiders have been on a tear; reeling off six consecutive victories. While the Raiders are average a healthy 29.5 points per game, it has been the defense who has stymied most of their opponents, allowing only 11.7 points per game. Weapons on offense for the Raiders include senior receiver Zaire Thornton and senior running back Tyree Nelson.

 

Meanwhile, South Paulding, who had gone through some growing pains over the last three seasons finds themselves in the thick of a race for the region title. The Spartans have done most of their damage through the air this season. Quarterback Austin Seymour has passed for over 1,800 yards and 23-TDs. His top two receivers are receiver Parker Self (61 receptions, 982 yards, 12-TDs) and tight end Miles Campbell (34 receptions, 405 yards, 7-TDs). Together, this trio has helped power South Paulding’s offense to average 36.5 points per game. We think this game should be a back and forth battle. We like Mays to edge South Paulding by 2.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Bainbridge Bearcats started off the season red hot, but have dropped their last two games. This week, they will host the Warner Robins Demons in a rematch of the 2018 state title. Bainbridge has been pretty stout on defense, allowing 13.1 points per game. Quayde Hawkins has passed for 1,125 yards and 9-TDs while Rashad Broadnax has rushed for 718 yards and 8-TDs. Deyon Bouie continues to lead the secondary with 3 interceptions this season as a sophomore.

 

While a win this week by Warner Robins won’t necessarily avenge last season’s state title game, it will move the Demons one step closer to a region title. Warner Robins is averaging 33.5 points per game. They are led by junior quarterback Jalen Addie (1,383 passing yards, 16-TDs), junior running back Jalen Rutherford (660 rushing yards, 3-TDs) and senior wide receiver Marcayl Jones (25 receptions, 474 yards, 2-TDs). The Demons defense is only allowing 13.5 points per game. We don’t believe that the Demons will get to 33 points this week, but we do like them over the Bearcats. Warner Robins by 9.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

For the last four years, the Region 2-4A title has gone through Mary Persons. The Bulldogs have not lost a region game since 2014. This season they are still undefeated in the region, but have a serious challenger in the West Laurens Raiders. The Bulldogs are averaging 28.7 points per game, but their defense is allowing 28.2 points per game. William Stewart leads the way at running back with 541 yards and 6-TDs, while quarterbacks Malikk Harris and Logan Hickman have combined to pass for 816 yards and 10-TDs.

 

If you were wondering when the last time Mary Persons lost a region game, it was in fact to West Laurens on November 7, 2014. A win by the Raiders this week will not guaranty a region title, but it will certainly boost confidence over the last two weeks. Quarterback A.J. Mathis has passed for 1,425 yards and 14-TDs while Brent Car has caught 51 passes for 807 yards. D’Eryck Jackson leads the team in total tackles with 62 and has 5 sacks. As a team, West Laurens has tallied 36 sacks on the year. Daniel Dorsey leads the secondary with 4 interceptions. West Laurens is averaging 36.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 13.1 points. We think this game will be close and we don’t expect for West to score 36 points, but we do like them by a touchdown this week on the road.

 

 

 

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Week 10 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews

Posted on October 23, 2019 by admin

Only three Cherokee County Football teams are in action this week, but all three games have playoff implications. In Region 4-7A, both the Woodstock Wolverines and Lassiter Trojans come into the game needing a win to keep slim playoff hopes alive. Lassiter has struggled to get consistency on offense…Can the Wolverines capitalize this week for their first region win? In Region 6-6A, the Sequoyah Chiefs will host the Sprayberry Yellow Jackets for homecoming. Sprayberry has not beaten the Chiefs in 9 tries. Is the 10th time a charm? Meanwhile, just up East Cherokee Drive, the Creekview Grizzlies will host the South Cobb Eagles. The Grizzlies certainly shouldn’t be looking past South Cobb this week. The Grizzlies can ill-afford a slip up this late in the season. Please make sure to get out and support these young men on Friday night. As always, thanks for reading.  Comments and discussion are always welcome!

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Both Woodstock and Lassiter come into this week’s game in search of their first region win. A loss by either team would for all intents and purposes, eliminate them from the post-season. Woodstock has been close to big upsets over the last two weeks with one score losses to county rivals Etowah and Cherokee. The Wolverines have struggled to punch the ball into the end zone in some games and are averaging just over 14 points per game.

 

Their opponent, the Lassiter Trojans have had even more trouble scoring points. Coach Thom is just beginning his rebuilding process, so we knew there would be growing pains coming into the season for the Trojans. Quarterbacks Mitch Storm and Brayden Lind have taken most of the snaps for the Trojans. The duo has combined for 764 yards through the air. Shai Valencia leads the Trojans in rushing with 281 yards. We don’t believe that Lassiter can score enough points to outlast Woodstock this week. We like the Wolverines by 13.

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Sequoyah Chiefs and Sprayberry Yellow Jackets enter Friday’s game both needing a win to keep their post-season hopes alive. The Chiefs got a win against South Cobb last week to stay in contention. Jaden Mitchell has been the workhorse on offense with 494 yards on the ground and 4 rushing TDs, while Miles McGee leads the Chiefs in receiving with 18 catches for 301 yards. Sequoyah’s defense has been respectable, allowing only 15.1 points per game. Sequoyah has not lost to Sprayberry since November of 2009, which spans 9 games.

 

But this Sprayberry team is coming off of one of the best team defensive performances all season, as they shut down Dalton’s all-world running back, Jahmyr Gibbs, holding him to 93 rushing yards and no TDs. (Gibbs entered the game last week averaging just above 260 yards per game.) Perhaps that blue print for containing Gibbs will work for slowing down the Chiefs rushing attack. While Sprayberry’s defense was stout last week, they are still allowing 24.5 points per game. This week should let us know if Sprayberry is a contender or a pretender. We think the Jackets are riding high, and if the win out the remainder of the season, they’ll secure the 3rd seed. Look for the jackets to spoil homecoming for the Chiefs this week. Jackets by 7.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

It’s homecoming week on Owens Store Road and the Creekview Grizzlies host the South Cobb Eagles. Things got interesting in the region standings with Sprayberry’s win over Dalton, but we know that Coach Williams has the Grizzlies focused on the task at hand this week. Everything is in front of Creekview and if they win out, they will be headed back to the post-season. The Grizz got all they wanted last week from a gutsy River Ridge team, edging their county foe on a goal-line stand. Creekview is averaging 25.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 20.4.

 

Meanwhile, South Cobb has been eliminated from post-season play, but could play the role of spoiler. But before they can think about an upset, the defense will have to find a way to stop Creekview’s Ethan Dirrim and Brody Rhodes. South Cobb is allowing 46.5 points per game. That’s a number that does not bode well for them coming into this game. They will need to force turnovers to keep this game close. We just don’t believe that’s in the cards. We think Creekview will be refocused this week. We like them to roll this week. Grizzlies by 25.

 

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Week 9 – GHSA High School Football Poll

Posted on October 20, 2019 by admin

Our GHSA High School Football Poll has been published. There were no new changes to our 7A poll, but McEachern did take control in Region-3 with a big win over Marietta. Meanwhile, the Grayson Rams put themselves in the drivers seat in Region 8-7A with a 3-point win over the Archer Tigers.

In 6A, perhaps the biggest surprise was the Sprayberry Yellow Jackets getting a big win over Dalton. The loss drops the Catamounts from this week’s poll. The Mays Raiders come in at No. 10 this week after their region win over Creekside. They have a big matchup this week, as they face South Paulding. (We have South ranked at No. 9 this week.) In 5A, the only ranked team to lose was the Kell Longhorns as they were defeated by the Carrollton Trojans. The Trojans now have the inside track for the region title. The loss dropped the Longhorns to No. 10 this week.

In 4A, Cartersville asserted their dominance as they downed Sandy Creek to move to 8-0 and the season. That win makes the Canes the favorites in Region 5-4A. Sandy Creek slips to No. 5 this week. Meanwhile in Region 7-4A, Marist downed Denmark while Blessed Trinity edged Flowery Branch. The losses drop Denmark to No. 9 and Flowery Branch to No. 10 this week.

The Jenkins Warriors are the newest entrant into the 3A poll. They beat Beach going away this past week. Hart County drops from the poll after a 7-point loss to Monroe Area. In Class 2-A, The Bleckley County Royals make their debut into the 2019 poll while Fitzgerald falls from the poll after a loss to Thomasville. The Top-8 teams in 2A remain unchanged.

The Manchester Blue Devils suffered a one-point loss to region foe Brookstone, while Bowdon fell to Christian Heritage. The losses drop Manchester to No. 10 and Bowdon to No. 9. Meanwhile Commerce slips two spots after a loss to Hebron Christian. Finally, in A-Private, Savannah Country Day comes in at No. 10 and makes their first Top-10 of the season. A loss by Aquinas made way for the Hornets. The rest of the A-Private poll remained unchanged.

Polls are fun and can provide for spirited and healthy conversations and debates. We welcome any and all poll feedback.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Week – 9 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 17, 2019 by admin

This is Part II of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. In Region-6 Class A, Christian Heritage will host the Bowdon Red Devils. Can Bowdon’s stingy defense keep the Christian Heritage offense in check? In Region-7 4A there are two big matchups between the top four teams. First, Blessed Trinity hosts Flowery Branch. The Titans got a big win last week but face a big test as Flowery Branch comes in undefeated. Can Blessed Trinity slow down the Flowery Branch ground game? The other matchup features Denmark and Marist. The Danes were edged by Blessed Trinity last week, but there’s no time to  feel sorry for themselves as Marist comes into the game undefeated. The Ware Eagles are a perennial power and seem to be clicking on all cylinders. Will the Danes get revenge this year? Finally, we take a look at  a big matchup in Region-5-4A as Cartersville hosts Sandy Creek. Both teams are ranked in the top 3 in most polls and each have been dominant on defense. Can Sandy Creek dethrone the reigning Region champions? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Christian Heritage Lions will host the Bowdon Red Devils this week in a Region-6 Single A matchup. The only blemish on the Lions record is a 7-point loss to Darlington. Otherwise the Lions have been pretty darn good. The defense is allowing 9.1 points per game, while the offense is averaging 34 points per game. Gage Leonard leads the team in rushing with 494 yards while Ethan Smith has run for 384 yards. Christian Thomas has passed fro 881 yards and 9-TDs. Ben Hermann and Solomon Locke lead the defense in tackles.

 

Meanwhile, the Bowdon Red Devils are 6-0 for the first time since 2013. The Red Devils are averaging 20.3 points per game on offense, but their defense has been pretty stingy, allowing only 8.6 points per game thus far. Bowdon’s best win this season was their 6-point victory over North Cobb Christian. Gage Stephens leads the Bowdon offense with 964 rushing yards. Bowdon is certainly vastly improved from last season, but we like Christian Heritage at home this week by 7.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Blessed Trinity Titans will host the Flowery Branch Titans this week. The Titans edged region foe Denmark last week and have another tough test this week. The Titans have a potent one-two punch at running back with a healthy Elijah Green and talented freshman Justice Haynes. The Blessed Trinity defense is allowing 14.3 points per game, while their offense is averaging 26.3 points per game. Defensive end Grayson Gilder made a living last week wreaking havoc in the Denmark backfield.

 

The Flowery Branch Falcons have had to retool their offense after losing senior quarterback Elijah Gainey to a season ending injury in their scrimmage. The Falcons are now averaging just over 290 yards rushing per game. Jaizen Ellingham and Chandler White lead the way on the ground for Flowery Branch. The Falcons defense is allowing 8 points per game and has recorded three shutouts. However, we think Blessed Trinity is a little more battle tested at this point in the season. This game should be close again. But we like the Titans by a field goal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Denmark Danes look to get back on track this week after a heartbreaking loss to Blessed Trinity last week. Denmark’s high-powered offense is averaging 44.6 points per game led by dual threat quarterback Aaron McLaughlin and wide receiver Ze’vian Capers. Capers is one of the most talented receivers we’ve seen this season and is a mismatch for most secondaries. While McLauhglin has a big arm and is tough to bring down in the pocket. The Danes defense is allowing 7.3 points per game and has four shutouts to their credit.

 

The Marist War Eagles enter this game undefeated and are one of the favorites to win the Region. The run first Ware Eagles are averaging 39.1 points per game. Quarterback Connor Cigelske has rushed for 641 yards and passed for 801 yards. He has accounted for 21 TDs as he is the straw that stirs the drink for the Marist offense. Defensively, the War Eagles are allowing 6.8 points per game and themselves have three shutouts. If the defensive front can get pressure on McLaughlin, the War Eagles might be able to mitigate Capers effectiveness on offense. This game should be much closer than last year’s contest, but we still like Marist by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

This might be the defect Region Title game as two of the top teams in Class 4A face off at Weinman Stadium as the Sandy Creek Patriots visit the Cartersville Purple Hurricanes. Cartersville features one of the best defenses in Class 4A as the Purple Hurricanes are allowing only 5.4 points per game. They have two shutouts and have also held two  other teams to just 2 points. Offensively, Tee Webb powers a unit that averages 32.1 points per game. Webb has passed for 1,358 yards and 14-TDs. The Canes have rushed for 890 yards on the season. Devonta Ross leads the team in receiving with 22 receptions for 525 yards and 5-TDs.

 

The Sandy Creek Patriots have also put together an impressive season as their defense is allowing 8.5 points per game. The Patriots have one shutout to their credit. Offensively, Sandy Creek is averaging 43.1 points per game. They have crossed the 40-point threshold in all but one of their games to this point. Brian Branch is threat at both receiver and in the secondary. Cartersville has not lost a regular season region game since October 21, 2011…that’s 50 consecutive wins. We believe this is the year that streak comes to an end. Patriots by 4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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