Week – 9 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 1 of 2

Posted on October 16, 2019 by admin

This is Part I of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. Region races are certainly starting to heat up at this point in the season. Our first preview features the Marietta Blue Devils against the McEachern Indians. The High powered Blue Devils look to defend their home turf and get a leg up on the region. In Region 8-7A, the Archer Tigers and Grayson Rams battle for Region supremacy this week. Can the Archer defense keep Grayson in check? In a rare mid-season non-region game, the Hapeville Charter Hornets host the Allatoona Buccaneers. Both teams pride themselves on defense, but could it be the offenses that shine this Friday night.  Over in Region 7-5A, Kell hosts Carrollton. With a win, Carrollton would be sitting pretty in the region standings. A Kell win makes things more complicated. Can the Trojans get a big win on the road? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

Key:

 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Marietta Blue Devils and McEachern Indians will face off in a big Region 3-7A matchup. If Marietta is going to win their first region title since 2005, they will need a strong showing this Friday from Harrison Bailey. They senior quarterback has passed for 1,817 yards and 18-TDs. The Blue Devils are a  pass heavy offense, but Kimani Vidal has rushed for 545 yards and 8-TDs. The Blue Devils are averaging 33.1 points per game on offense while the defense is allowing 18.8 points per game. B.J. Oujulari has recorded 10 sacks for the Marietta defense.

 

Meanwhile, the McEachern Indians come into the game unbeaten. They picked up a big win, albeit controversial in some eyes, over Hillgrove last week. The Indians defense is only allowing 10 points per game this season. McEachern is a little more balanced on offense but still averages more yards through the air than on the ground. Carlos Del Rio has passed 998 yards and 10-TDs while running backs Jordan Simmons and Christian Mason have combined for 539 yards and 13 rushing TDs. McEachern should be the most difficult defense that Marietta faces in region play. But we think Marietta has enough offense at home this week. We like the Blue Devils by 6.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Since 2011, the Grayson Rams and Archer Tigers have won the Region Titles in the Regions they have competed in. This year’s game should determine the region champion again, although we are still early in Region play. The Tigers two losses have been by a combined 4-points; and one of those games was weather shortened. The Archer defense is allowing 11.5 points per game. The Tigers are averaging 30.8 points per game on offense. As a team, they’ve rushed for over 1,100 yards and 17-TDs.

The Grayson Rams bounced back from their first loss of the season last Thursday with a big win over Shiloh. The Rams are averaging 29.1 points per game. C.J. Dixon has passed for 1,267 yards and 13-TDs. Lafayette Gurvin Jr. continues to lead the team in rushing in Phil Mafah’s absence with 654 yards and 7-TDs. The Rams are allowing 16.6 points per game on defense. Grayson is 1-1 against ranked teams in 7A this season. While this is a road game for the Rams, we think they get the best of Archer again this season. But it will be a little closer than last year. We like Grayson by a touchdown.



 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Hapeville Charter and Allatoona will face off in a non-region contest. Both teams are ranked in their respective classes. Hapeville has won five straight games since their Week-1 loss to Cedar Grove. In their five wins, the Hornets are outscoring their opponents 261-26. The offense is averaging 46.1 points per game, while the defense is allowing 8.6 points this season. Marcus Powell leads the team in rushing with 623 yards and 10-TDs while Nae’Sean Dickerson and Rico Powers Jr. have combined for 23 receptions 520 yards and 5 receiving TDs.

 

Their opponent though is a defensive minded team as well. 6A Allatoona is allowing 13.8 points per game and their two losses have come by a combined 5 points. The Bucs are averaging 30.6 points per game this season. Dante Marshall has passed for 906 yards and 10-TDs. As a team, Allatoona has rushed for 870 yards and has shown a very balanced attack. Asante Das is the leading receiver with 619 yards and 8-TDs. Kicker Jude Kelley is averaging 45.1 yards per punt and has also connected on 80% of his field goals with a long of 54. This game should be very competitive, but we like the Allatoona to wear down Hapeville. Bucs by 9.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Carrollton Trojans and Kell Longhorns will meet in a game with significant region standing implications. Kell’s only loss was a one-point defeat to Rome a month ago. The Longhorns defense has been stingy, allowing only 9.6 points per game. They have recorded two shutouts thus far. Offensively, the Longhorns are averaging 31.5 points per game. Talented Freshman David Mbadinga leads the way for the Longhorns in rushing.

Meanwhile, the Carrollton Trojans are in search of their first region title since 2011. While a win this Friday won’t guaranty that, but it will put the Trojans in the drivers seat for the Region 7-5A title. Sophomore quarterback Myles Morris has passed for 1,333 yards and 11-TDs. The Trojans offense is pretty balanced between the pass and run. As a team, the Trojans have rushed for 1,350 yards and are led by Mecose Todd and Brandon Marenco. Sophomore Terrell Carmichael leads the team in receiving with 14 receptions for 398 yards and 4-TDs. The Carrollton defense is allowing 13.5 points per game. This game should be one of the best in the state this week. We think Carrollton will have just enough to edge the Longhorns. Trojans by 2.

 

 

 

 

 

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Week 9 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews

Posted on October 16, 2019 by admin

All six Cherokee County Football teams are in action this week as teams they jockey for position in the region standings. In Region 4-7A action, the Woodstock Wolverines will host the Cherokee Warriors. Woodstock cannot afford to fall too far behind in the standings, while a win by the Warriors would almost certainly lock them in to the post-season. In Region 6-6A, the Sequoyah Chiefs will be back on the road this week as the face the South Cobb Eagles. Sequoyah cannot afford to slip up on the road. Have the Chiefs solved some of their turnover issues? Etowah is certain to get a stiff challenge from the Walton Raiders and their talented young quarterback Zak Rozsman in their 4-7A matchup. Both teams sit atop the region with no losses. Etowah would find themselves squarely in the driver’s seat for a region title with a win this week. Meanwhile back in 6-6A, River Ridge will make the short trip over to Creekview. The Grizzlies need  a win to avoid any calamity in the region standings. While a River Ridge loss would in most scenarios, eliminate them from the post-season. Can River Ridge win their first game against a county opponent? 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 Woodstock Wolverines look to get back into the playoff hunt this Friday night as they host the Cherokee Warriors. Last week, Woodstock gave Etowah all they wanted but fell short at the final horn. Woodstock’s quarterbacks have combined for 850 yards passing and 8-TDs, but have also thrown seven interceptions. The Wolverines offense is tilted a little more to the pass, but expect for the Warriors to see a good dose of V’ontae Hampton and Willie Grier to keep them honest.

 

Meanwhile the Cherokee Warriors got a big boost last week with Ebony Jackson joining the team. He scored on both sides of the ball with a pick-6 and on a 95-yard touchdown reception. The Warriors picked off Roswell four times last week en route to a big region victory. We sound like a broken record talking about the Warriors defense, but they have been pretty good most of the season. In all of Cherokee’s victories this season, the defense has forced turnovers…in their two losses, they did not force any. That stat is very telling. We think the Warriors force two turnovers this week. Cherokee by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Sequoyah Chiefs got back into the win column this week with a win over River Ridge last week. The Chiefs got big plays from their defense and recorded their first shutout of the season. Sequoyah will certainly need to continue to work on limiting turnovers going forward. Jaden Mitchell continues to lead them in rushing. But he also forced a turnover last week and returned it for a touchdown, showing some of his versatility on both sides of the ball. The Chiefs are averaging 19.6 points per game on offense.

The South Cobb Eagles begin their “Cherokee County” stretch of their schedule this week. One more loss would officially eliminate the Eagles from the post season. They have had an extremely challenging schedule with 4 of their losses coming at the hands of ranked teams. South Cobb is averaging 14.5 points per game while their defense is allowing 41.5 points per game. If the Eagles can turn the Chiefs over, this game could get interesting, but even still, we like the Chiefs by 17 this week.

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Etowah Eagles host the Walton Raiders this Friday night. The Eagles sit atop the region and barring some wild surprises, we expect Etowah to be in the post-season. Quarterback Dalton Miller continues to lead the county in passing while Jackson Manns leads the county in receiving. They also have three reliable backs in Klivert Many, Nick Maddox and Remington Adams. The Eagles offense is averaging 28.8 points per game. The Etowah defense is allowing 27.2 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, the Walton Raiders are in what many would consider a rebuilding year after they lost several skill players to graduation. The Raiders broke a two-game losing skid last week with a win over Lassiter. Kendall Stokes led the way on the ground with 116 yards and 5-TDs. However, in their three losses this season, the Raiders have only scored 5.6 points per game. A healthy Stokes makes this an intriguing game. We think this game is going to be nip and tuck, but we like Etowah by 3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Creekview Grizzlies are back in action this week as they host the River Ridge Knights after a bye week. Last time out, the Grizzlies got a big win region win against rival Sequoyah and have positioned themselves for a playoff berth if they continue to win the games many presume they will. The offensive line is led be Clemson commit John Williams. Williams and his line mates have paved the way for 914-team rushing yards this season. Dual threat quarterback Brody Rhodes leads the way on the ground with 369 yards and 3-TDs. He’s has also passed for 905 yards and 10-TDs. Ethan Dirrim (30 receptions, 519 yards, 8-TDs) and Andrew Cloy (19 receptions, 243 yards, 2-TDs) lead the Grizzlies in receiving.  In their 4-wins this season, Creekview’s defense is allowing only 14.5 points per game. Lake Bowman and Cale Williams lead the team in total tackles, while freshman Isaac Hubert leads the team in sacks with 7. Speaking of sacks, the Grizzlies have recorded an impressive 32.5 sacks this season.

 

Meanwhile, River Ridge looks to be on the outside looking in regarding the playoff picture in Region 6-6A. The Knights could not capitalize on some opportunities this past Friday and fell to Sequoyah. Amehre Morrison continues to lead the Knights in receiving and rushing. River Ridge has a relatively balanced attack, but they are only averaging 14 points per game. River Ridge is still looking for their first win against a county foe, but we don’t believe that happens this week, we like Creekview by three touchdowns.

 

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Week 8 – GHSA High School Football Poll

Posted on October 13, 2019 by admin

Week 8 has come to a close and our GHSA High School Football Poll has been published. Most teams have begun their ever-important region schedule at this point of the season. There were no changes to our 7A or 6A poll this week. Despite Allatoona falling to Harrison, the Bucs remain at No. 7. In our 5-A poll, Riverdale jumps into the Top-10 for the first time this season. Meanwhile, Dutchtown drops 3 spots after their loss to Jones County while Bainbridge fell two spots to No. 8 after their loss to Veterans.

In 4A, Blessed Trinity blocked a 51-yard game winning field goal attempt by Denmark as time expired to edge their region foe. The win has the Titans back up to No. 5 while Denmark falls to No. 6. Cairo drops to No. 10 after a 6-point loss to Carver-Columbus. Carver Columbus makes their poll debut at No. 9 this week.

The Jefferson Dragons got a big region win over Hart County. The loss drops Hart County to No. 9, but otherwise there were no new teams into the poll this week. In Class AA, Vidalia downed Jeff Davis and comes in at No. 10 this week.

Lincoln County makes their debut in the poll this week at No. 10 in Class A Public; while Aquinas makes their debut at No. 10 in Class A Private.

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 8 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews

Posted on October 10, 2019 by admin

Cooler weather now abounds in Cherokee County, but we are starting to enter the heat of the playoff race. Just like last week, five of the six county teams are in action this week and our Cherokee County Football game previews are here. The battle of Towne Lake takes place this Friday night at Etowah. The Eagles look to go 2-0 in region play and  would almost guaranty a playoff spot with a victory. Can Woodstock pull the upset. Rivalry games can be quirky, you know…Meanwhile, River Ridge will host Sequoyah. The loser of this game will likely find themselves on the outside looking in for the post-season. Can River Ridge win their first game against a county opponent? Finally, Cherokee hosts Roswell. The Warriors have lost two straight games and now, the Roswell Hornets, (our pick to win the region title), comes calling. Can the young Warriors rebound this week? 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 Battle of Towne Lake is the 3rd oldest rivalry game in the county, and the Etowah Eagles hold a one-game lead in the series. Last week the Eagles got a big victory as they downed Cherokee in overtime. (It was Etowah’s second consecutive overtime game.) Quarterback Dalton Miller racked up 210 passing yards and 4-TDs against Cherokee but the Eagles were held to 87 team rushing yards. Miller has been steady for the Eagles under center this season while Jackson Manns has been his primary target. The Eagles are averaging 29 points per game while the defense is allowing 28.3points per game. I win this week would almost ensure the Eagles a spot in the post season.

 

The Woodstock Wolverines are coming got their first win of the season two weeks ago and had a bye last week. Walker Ormsby and Robbie Roper have both taken snaps under center this season for the Wolverines, but the offense has struggled at times averaging 15 points per game on the season. Meanwhile, the defense is allowing 22.2 points per game. We know that the Woodstock secondary can be challenging to throw on with David Daniel and Andrew Bartolero patrolling the defensive backfield. Despite some of Woodstock’s struggles offensively, we think they will top their 15-point average this week. We just don’t think they can outscore the Eagles. But rivalry games can be quirky. We like Etowah anyway by 11.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Sequoyah Chiefs will make the short trip down East Cherokee drive to face county foe River Ridge. This is a must win game for both teams with regards to staying in contention for a playoff spot. In River Ridge’s 2 wins, they have outscored their opponents 83-7 and in their 4 losses, the Knight s have been outscored 158-20. River Ridge will need to get super sophomore running back Amehre Morrison cranked up against the Chiefs defense. He is a home run play waiting to happen.

 

The Chiefs were hurt last week against Creekview with four costly turnovers inside of the Grizzlies 35-yard line. One of those turnovers was returned for a score. The Chiefs will need to minimize those mistakes this week. Offensively, the Chiefs will attack with the Wing-T. Look for Jaden Mitchell, Aidan Moore and Sean Hayes to get the bulk of the carries for the Chiefs. On defense, Christian Kirby, Jack Blackmon, Christian Hodgins and Myles McGee will be tasked with slowing down Morrison and the Knights. Sequoyah is allowing a respectable 18 points per game, and they gave up the lion’s share of those points to Dalton. Need we remind everyone that River Ridge has never won a game against a county opponent? Is this the week? We are going to put the Chiefs on upset alert…but do expect them to pull this game out in what might be one of the closest contests in the rivalry. Chiefs by 1.

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Cherokee Warriors look to bounce back from last week’s overtime loss as they host the Roswell Hornets this week in another pivotal Region 4-7A battle. It was the second consecutive loss for the Warriors and this week it doesn’t get any easier. Last week A.J. Swann passed for 267 yards and 3-TDs but, the Etowah defense held the Warriors to 22 yards rushing. On the season, Swann surpassed the 1,000-yard mark, passing for 1,124 yards and 9-TDs while Keith Adams, Jr. has rushed for 510 yards and 5-TDs. Adarrius Harshaw (25 receptions, 332 yards, 3-TDs) and Landon Ergle (20 receptions, 275 yards, 3-TDs) lead the Warriors in receiving. Meanwhile, the Warriors defense has now gone two weeks without recording a turnover. Braesen Parker (73 tackles, 4 sacks) Brandon Byrd (65 tackles) and Patrick Dahlen (65 tackles, 3-INTs) lead the Warriors on defense.

 

This will be the first region game for the Hornets. They were off last week, after shutting out Wheeler back on September 27th. The Hornets have recorded two shutouts this season and are allowing a paltry 6.5 points per game. Offensively, the Hornets should present a balanced attack against the Warriors. Savion McCrary and Nnamdi Orjioke will lead the Hornets rushing attack while senior signal caller Ethan Roberts will look to get the ball to receivers Marquis Willis, Jacob Jarrett and tight-end John Copenhaver. While the Hornets area averaging 31 points per game on offense, we think this one might be a little lower scoring. We like Roswell on the road this week by 7.

 

 

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Week 7 – GHSA High School Football Poll

Posted on October 6, 2019 by admin

Week-7 is in the books and our GHSA High School Football Poll has been published. There were no changes to our 7A poll this week. Meanwhile, in 6A, the only Top-10 team to lose was Coffee, as they fell to Godby High out of Tallahassee. The loss drops the Trojans down to No. 6.

In 5A, Bainbridge lost to 7A Tift County. The loss drops the Bearcats down to No. 6 this week. Buford continues to impress and has jumped to No. 4. while Wayne County is back into the poll after Griffin’s loss to Starr’s Mill dropped them from the poll.

Sandy Creek had a big win over Troup this week in a Top-10 battle in Class 4A. Troup’s loss drops them to No. 10 this week. There were no new entrants into the poll. The 3A poll remains unchanged this week. However, in Class 2-A, Hephzibah lost to Jefferson County, which paved the way for Fitzgerald to enter the poll at No. 10 this week. Hapeville Charter downed Dougalss in a Top-10 battle in Region 6. The loss dropped the Astros to No. 9 this week.

The Class A Public poll remains unchanged. While in Class A Private, there was reshuffling in the bottom five, but there were no new entrants this week.

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

Posted on October 3, 2019 by admin

This is Part I of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. As we take a look at some of the previews for Week-7,  we noticed that some of the best games are in Class A-Private this week. Our first preview features the Darlington Tigers and Christian Heritage Lions. The Lions are looking to break through and finally get a win against Darlington. The winner is sure to get a big boost in the GHSA Class A-Private power rankings. In Class 4A, Troup and Sandy Creek face off in region play. These are certainly two of the top three teams in the Region. Can Troup get the offense rolling again against a stingy Sandy Creek defense?  Hapeville Charter and Douglass face off in a Region 6-AA battle. Can Douglass knock off the reigning region champ? Over in Region 8-AA, Union County will host Elbert County. Will it be another big night for UC quarterback Pierson Allison? Or will Elbert slow down the Panther express? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Two of the top teams in both Region 6 and Class A Private will match up as The Christian Heritage Lions travel to Rome to take on the Darlington Tigers. For Darlington, Kolin Rogers has rushed for 491 yards and 10-TDs, while quarterback Griffin Brewster leads the team with 512 passing yards and 6-TDs. The Darlington offense is averaging 39.4 points per game while their defense has two shutouts to their credit and is only allowing  8.6 points per game.

 

Christian Heritage also comes into this game undefeated. They are led by sophomore quarterback Christian Thomas, who has passed for 615 yards and 6-TDs. Gage Leonard has rushed fro 459 yards and 5-TDs and also caught 13 passes for 176 yards and 2-TDs. Evan Lester leads the team in receiving yards with 225 and 3-TDs. The Lions got their first shutout in their last outing and are only allowing 5 points per game on defense. If there was ever a year for Christian Heritage to beat Darlington, this might be one of their best chances…but we like the Tigers at home in another close game…Tigers by 3.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Troup County will get another test in Region 4-4A as the Sandy Creek Patriots come calling on Friday night. Troup continues to be led by quarterback Kobe Hudson (999 yards passing, 558 yards rushing, 17-TDs) and Tre Williams who has rushed for 723 yards and 8-TDs. The Tigers leading receivers are Zy Varner (10 receptions, 325 yards, 5-TDs), Marquavious Kelley (10 receptions, 193 yards, 1-TD) and Luke Purnell (12 receptions, 136 yards, 2-TDs). The Tigers are averaging almost 320 yards on the ground per game and averaging 45.2 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 25.4 points per game.

 

Meanwhile, head Coach Brett Garvin has the Sandy Creek Patriots moving in the right direction this season as the Patriots are undefeated coming into their region opener. The storyline for the Patriots this season has been their defense. Sandy Creek is allowing 5 points per game on defense. Meanwhile, quarterback Matt Williams has a couple of talented receivers in Brian Branch (Alabama Commit) and Ahmad Jackson who will definitely put pressure on the Troup secondary. This game could certainly be a slugfest this year. We give the nod to Troup at home, but not by much…Tigers by 2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Hapeville Charter will host the Douglass Astros on Friday night. While we are only at the midway point of the season, this game could decide the region champion or at least give the winner an inside track to the region championship.  The Hornets again have a plethora of talent on this year’s squad. Quarterback Jeremy Stephens has passed for 603 yards and 5-TDs. His top receivers include Na’Sean Dickerson (7 receptions, 195 yards, 2-TDs), Jaquez Smith (9 receptions, 144 yards, 3-TDs) and Rico Powers Jr. (6 receptions, 123 yards, 2-TDs). Meanwhile Marcus Carroll has rushed for 372 yards and 5-TDs. Defensive lineman Robert Lee has recorded 8 sacks on the season. The Hornets are allowing 9.7 points per game.

The Douglass Astros are 5-0 for the second consecutive season. They have done most of their damage on offense in the run game. Quintavious Lockett has rushed for 715 yards and 11-TDs, While quarterback De’Andre Watson has passed fir 356 yards and rushed for 395 yards and accounted for 15 total TDs. Dre Towns is the Astros leading receiver with 175 yards and 3-TDs. Douglass is averaging almost 300 yards per game on the ground. If the Astros can use their ground game to keep the explosive Hornets offense off the field, this game could get very interesting late. We think Hapeville is still the top dog in Region 6. Hornets by 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Union County Panthers host the Elbert County Blue Devils in beautiful Blairsville on Friday night. Union County quarterback Pierson Allison, one of the top passers in the state, has thrown for 1,553 yards and 18-TDs with no interceptions. Running back Jonah Daniel has rushed for 798 yards and 10-TDs, while Kyle Morlock (21 receptions, 528 yards, 6-TDs) and Sawyer Drake (27 receptions, 465 yards, 6-TDs) lead the Panthers in the receiving statistical categories. The Panthers are averaging a very healthy 53.8 points per game on offense.

 

We suspect that the Elbert County Blue Devils will be the toughest opponent to date for the Panthers. Elbert’s only losses were to North Oconee and Hart County; two teams that are ranked in the Top-10 in various polls in their respective classifications. The Blue Devils are averaging 35.8 points per game and quarterback DJ Ardister is a dangerous weapon as well in his own right. We just don’t believe that the Blue Devils can outscore Union County. We like the Panthers by 17 this week.

 

 

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Week – 7 GHSA Football Previews – Eight Greats Around the State – Part 2 of 2

Posted on October 3, 2019 by admin

This is Part II of our GHSA Football Previews called Eight Greats Around The State. As we take a look at the previews for Week-7,  we noticed that some of the best games are in Class A-Private this week. Our first preview takes us to Middle Georgia as West Laurens and Howard look to get a leg up in Region 2-4A play this week. Next up, we take a look at one of those Class-A Private games as Prince Avenue Christian hosts Athens Academy. Prince Avenue has been without their quarterback for the past month. Can they do enough to keep Len’Neth Whitehead and the Spartans at bay? In Region 5-A-Private, Wesleyan travels to McDonough to face the ELCA Chargers. Both teams were beaten earlier this season by Holy Innocents. This game should settle second place in the region and also give a boost to the winner in the Class A power rankings. Finally in Region 4-6A, The M.L. King Lions will face the Stephenson Jaguars. The Jaguars have not been as prolific on offense as we’ve seen in the past. Is this the season the Lions break a 6 game losing streak to their county rival? As always, please feel free to share and comment.

 

Key: 

TFR – Turd Ferguson Report

NR – Not Ranked

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

If there was ever a year that traditional region power Mary Persons could be knocked off from the top of the hill, this might be it; and both West Laurens and Howard have just as good a chance as any program to do so. West Laurens hosts Howard as both teams come in with identical records. West Laurens has a pretty balanced attack and is led by quarterback A.J. Mathis (1,006 yards passing, 8-TDs) and running backs Daniel Dorsey (284 yards, 4-TDs), Christian Covin (260 yards, 2-TDs) and Shonta Burney Jr. (256 yards, 3-TDs). Brent Carr is the team’s leading receiver with 31 receptions fro 564 yards. D’Eryck Jackson leads the Raiders in total tackles with 50 and is second on the team in sacks with 4. The Raiders have recorded 25 sacks on the season. The aforementioned Dorsey also leads the defense with 3 interceptions.

 

The Howard Huskies have won four consecutive games after dropping their first of the season to Jones County. They have done much of their damage on the ground. Jeremiah Kelly leads the way with 498 yards and 4-TDs while Javarsia Meadows has added 324 yards and 8-TDs. Quarterback Jaylon Clark has passed for 556 yards and 7-TDs. Meadows is also the Huskies leading receiver with 21 receptions for 258 yards. Jason Parham leads the team with 36 total tackles and also leads the team in interceptions, with 2. We are impressed with the direction the Huskies are moving in and it looks like this could shape up to be one of the best season’s in school history, but we think West Laurens gets revenge from last year’s game this week. Raiders by 9.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Athens Academy Spartans will travel to Prince Avenue Christian in a battle of top Region 8 teams. The host Wolverines are currently playing without starting quarterback Brock Vandagriff who has been out with an injury. Freshman quarterback Lucian Anderson has stepped up in his stead and passed for 465 yards and 6-TDs. Landon Owens leads the team in rushing with 454 yards and 5-TDs while Logan Johnson (20 receptions, 359 yards, 4-TDs) and Zac Dyer (14 receptions, 366 yards, 5-TDs) lead the Prince Avenue receivers. Tyler Payne and Davis Ridings lead the team in total tackles with 49 and 46 respectively while Shane McCormick leads the team in sacks with 5.

 

Athens Academy has won the last three games in the series. The Athens Academy defense is allowing 8 points per game while their offense is averaging 43.5 points per game. Len’Neth Whitehead is a star on both sides of the ball at running back and linebacker for the Spartans. Palmer Bush has a dangerous weapon in Deion Colzie at receiver. We like the Spartans this week again, but it should be a close contest. Athens Academy by 4 on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

While Holy Innocents is almost certain to lay claim to the Region 5 crown, ELCA and Wesleyan are battling for positioning in the Class A private power poll. ELCA’s Keaton Mitchell is one of the state’s top running backs with 811 yards and 17-TDs on the season. Quarterback Gabe Wright has passed for 718 yards and 10-TDs. Justin Robinson has been the Chargers leading receiver with 19 catches for 247 yards and 4-TDs. The ELCA defense is allowing 13 points per game. Deion Fisher leads the team in total tackles with 43 and interceptions, with 2.

 

The Wesleyan Wolves opened the season with 4 straight wins before falling to Holy Innocents last week. The Wolves are led by sophomore quarterback J.C. French (646 yards passing 11-TDs) and fellow sophomore running back Griffin Caldwell. Josh Aspinwall leads the team in total tackles with 43. The Wolves look to have a strong young nucleus, but we believe the Chargers have too much firepower this week. We like ELCA by three touchdowns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The M.L. King Lions are undefeated through four games for the first time since 2012 when they went undefeated in regular season play. This week they host the Stephenson Jaguars. The Lions have had a lot of success on the ground. Dual threat quarterback Jacobi Haynes (715 yards rushing, 472 yards passing, 13 total TDs) and running back Michael Fearn (325 yards, 3-TDs) lead the King offensive attack. De’Ouandre Moore is the leading receiver with 12 catches for 332 yards. Linebackers Colin White and Jomel Robinson lead the team in total tackles with 43 and 34 respectively.

 

The Stephenson Jaguars have won the last six games in the series. In those last six matchups, the Jaguars are only allowing the Lions 7.3 points per game. Offensively, Deondre Jackson has rushed for 447 yards and 8-TDs. Ryan Ingram has also chipped in 167 yards and 1-TD. The Stephenson defense has been pretty stingy, only allowing 12.5 points per game. Tommy Smith leads the team with 40 total tackles and Javier Morton leads the Jaguars 2 interceptions. We think the Stephenson defense will do enough to keep them in the game for 4 quarters, but we like King by 3 this week in a low scoring battle.

 

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Week 7 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews

Posted on October 2, 2019 by admin

We’ve turned the calendar to the month of October and that means it’s time for region play. Five of the six county teams are in action this week and our Cherokee County Football game previews are here. The county’s oldest rivalry renews this year for the 36th time as the Cherokee Warriors host the Etowah Eagles. Can the Warriors bounce back from the defeat at Cartersville and which Etowah team will we see this Friday; the one that took Hillgrove to overtime or the one that had trouble against North Cobb early in the season? Meanwhile, River Ridge will travel to Dalton. The Knights have strung together two consecutive victories but step up in competition as they visit the Catamounts. Can River Ridge slow down Jahmyr Gibbs? Finally, Creekview makes the short ride down East Cherokee Drive to face the Sequoyah Chiefs. The Grizzlies have dominated this series and this game has big playoff implications as neither team can afford to lose too much ground in the standings. 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

 

Cherokee County’s oldest rivalry renews for the 36th time this Friday night as Etowah travels to Cherokee. This is the first week of region play for both teams. The Etowah Eagles have been up and down this season. The Eagles offense has been pretty consistent, averaging 29.4 points per game. Going into the bye week, quarterback Dalton Miller was one of the state’s leading passers with 1,065 yards on the season. However, the Etowah defense, which historically has been the team’s hallmark is allowing 29.2 points per game. In Etowah’s last outing, they took a very talented Hillgrove team to overtime.

 

Meanwhile, the Cherokee Warriors had won 4 straight before falling to Cartersville. The Warriors are averaging 22 points per game this season. Quarterback A.J. Swann has passed for 857 yards and 6-TDSs, while Keith Adams Jr. has carried the load on the ground with 468 yards and 5-TDs. Sophomore Adarrius Harshaw leads the team in receiving with 19 catches for 241 yards and 1-TD. The Warriors defense has been stout this season recording 2 shutouts and only allowing 7 points per game. The Warriors are only allowing 204.6 total yards to date. Brandon Byrd, Patrick Dahlen and Braesen Parker lead the Warriors in solo tackles. Dahlen also leads the secondary with 3 interceptions. We don’t expect offensive an explosion this week with these two defenses, but we do like the Warriors by 4 at home.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The River Ridge Knights travel to Dalton to take on the Catamounts. River Ridge has string together back-to-back wins and outscored their last two opponents 83-7. Last week it was quarterback Chase Begin and running back Amehre Morrison leading the way for the Knights. River Ridge is now averaging 19.2 points per game, but their defense is still allowing 26.2 points per game.

 

Dalton, however is in a different class than River Ridge. The Catamounts will surely be happy to be playing in the friendly confines of Bill Chappell Stadium after consecutive road trips to Metro-Atlanta. Jahmyr Gibbs has rushed for 1,364 yards and 24-TDs , including 220 yards in last week’s loss to Harrison. Behind Gibbs, the Cats are averaging 48 points per game. Meanwhile, the defense is allowing 18.4 points per game, with the bulk of those coming against Harrison. We believe the Cats get back to their winning ways and look for Gibbs to have another big night this week. Dalton by 24.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Sequoyah Chiefs and Creekview Grizzlies will battle this weekend as neither team can afford to lose any more ground in region play. The Chiefs will look to establish the run out of their Wing-T offense. They are lead by backs Jaden Mitchell (228 yards, 3-TDs) and Aidan Moore (126 yards, 1-TD). Sequoyah is averaging 22.7 points per game on offense, while the defense is allowing 15.7 yards per game. The Chiefs defense is paced by linebackers Christian Kirby (23 total tackles) and Grant Gibson and corner Myles McGee, (a recent NIU commit).

 

The Grizzlies are looking to get back on track this week after falling to Dalton their last time out. They are led on offense by dual threat quarterback Brody Rhodes, who has passed for 821 yards and leads the team in rushing with 313. He has accounted for 9 total TDs for the Grizzlies. Sophomore Tyler Stephens has added 203 yards and 3-TDs on the ground.  Meanwhile, Ethan Dirrim (28 receptions, 410 yards, 6-TDs and Andrew Cloy (19 receptions, 243 yards, 2-TDs) leads the Creekview receiving corp.  On defense, Lake Bowman and Cale Williams lead the team in total tackles, while Freshman Isaac Hubert leads the team in sacks with 7. The Grizzlies have recorded 29.5 sacks already this season. The big question this week, is can the Chiefs contain Creekview’s Rhodes & Dirrim…That’s a tall order to ask of most teams. We like Creekview by 6 this week.

 

 

 

 

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Week 6 – GHSA High School Football PollGHSA High School Football Poll

Posted on September 29, 2019 by admin

Week-6 brought us more big games across the state of Georgia. In perhaps the biggest matchup in 7A, Colquitt County beat Grayson. Grayson was our previous No. 1 drops to No. 4. Lowndes is the new No. 1 as they blanked Valdosta in the Winnersville Classic. In another battle of Top-10 teams, Parkview topped Milton in a defensive battle. The loss dropped Milton out of the poll while North Gwinnett makes their first appearance in the poll at No. 9, and Archer rounds out the Top-10 after an overtime defeat at the hands of Class 5A Buford.

In 6A, Harrison defeated Dalton to take over the No. 1 position in the poll. Valdosta dropped one spot to No. 2 after their loss to Lowndes.  The only change to the 5A poll was Buford moving up one spot after defeating Archer. There were no changes in the 4A poll this week.

There were no new entrants into the 3A poll, although there was some shake up. Cedar Gove took control of Region 5 with a big win over Lovett.  Meanwhile Appling County fell to 5A Wayne County. Those losses dropped Lovett to No. 8 and Appling to No. 9. Crisp County holds at No. 10 after losing by 5 to defending 5A State Champs, Bainbridge.

The Top-10 in Class 2A remains unchanged. Class A-Public had some shake up. Manchester jumps back into the poll at No. 7 after a big win over Marion County. Claxton who was ranked  No. 10 drops out of the poll this week although they were on bye. Class A-Private saw North Cobb Christian fall to Bowdon and Holy Innocents put their stamp on Region 5 with a shutout win over Wesleyan. The losses drop Wesleyan to No. 8 and North Cobb Christian to No. 9.

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 6 – TFR Cherokee County Football Previews

Posted on September 25, 2019 by admin

It’s Week 6 of the high school football season and our Cherokee County Football previews are here. Only two teams are in action this week and both are on the road. The River Ridge Knights got their first win last week and travel to Chamblee to take on the Bulldogs. Will they keep the momentum going this week? Meanwhile, Woodstock travels to Cumming to face North Forsyth. The Wolverines are in search of their first win of the season, while the Raiders are in search of their first win in the series. 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!

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

Head Coach Michael Collins will take his River Ridge Knights on the road this week as they travel to take on the Chamblee Bulldogs. (Collins coached at Chamblee from 2008-2009.) River Ridge picked up their first win of the season last week as they defeated the Osborne Cardinals. Amhere Morrison had a big week in the win as we went for over 150 yards and 2-TDs. This could be another game for the Knights to get any kinks worked out before they return to region play next week at Dalton.

 

Meanwhile, Chamblee has struggled in their three games this season, only scoring 13 points in total while their opposition has averaged 41.3 points per game. The Bulldogs biggest threat on offense is senior receiver Jeremiah Brown. If the Knights can contain Brown it should be another big win for River Ridge. We expect another big game from Amehre Morrison and expect the Knights to roll. River Ridge by 24 this week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Skinny

 

The Woodstock Wolverines will be on the road again this week as the face the North Forsyth Raiders this Friday. Quarterbacks Walker Ormsby and Robbie Roper have combined to pass for 708 yards and 7-TDs on the season. V’ontae Hampton leads the Wolverines with 308 yards rushing and 2-TDs. Meanwhile, Wes Bruno (11 receptions, 146 yards, 1-TD and De’Andre Turner, 10 receptions, 140 yards) lead the Wolverines receiving corps.

 

Meanwhile, North Forsyth comes into this game seeking their first win in the series. After their Week-1 loss to Cherokee, the Raiders have won three straight games. The Raiders will come with a balanced attack on offense. Quarterback Brady Meitz has passed for 590 yards and 4-TDs while Jared Lucero has rushed for 371 yards and 2-TDs. Nicky Dalmolin continues to pace the North Forsyth receivers with 16 receptions for 210 yards and 2-TDs. If Woodstock is able to take away Dalmolin, will North Forsyth be able to find another answer at receiver? This should be a very competitive contest…we like the Raiders to get their first win in the series this week; North Forsyth by 4.

 

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