Eight Greats Around the State: Georgia High School Football Previews Week 8 – Part I

Posted on October 4, 2023 by admin

It’s hard to believe that the first three quarters of the high school football season is coming to a close. That can only means that playoff races continue to heat up. In this edition of our Eight Greats Around the State, we will take a look at games that have either region title or home playoff implications.

There are two key matchups in Region 7-5A. First, Cartersville will host Bartow County rival Cass on Friday night. Can Cass break through and upset Cartersville, or will the Purple Hurricanes continue their mastery in the series? Second, the Hiram Hornets will host the Calhoun Yellow Jackets. The Hornets surprised the Jackets last season, so we know Calhoun will be prepared. The Hornets are playing with confidence. Can they take a step closer in securing a home playoff game?

Over in Hickory Flat, the Sequoyah Chiefs will welcome the Rome Wolves. The Wolves have been dominant in region play over the last two years. Can Sequoyah’s defense slow Rome? Finally, down in Lakeland, Lanier County has never defeated Clinch. The Bulldogs might have their best shot this season, but Clinch won’t just hand them a victory.

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

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

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

The Skinny

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes avenged their only region loss from a year ago with a victory over Calhoun last week. Through the first six games of the season, Cartersville is averaging 325 yards per game of total offense. Khristian Lando continues to pace the Canes with 348 rushing yards and 9-TDs, as he averages 5.4 yards per carry. Meanwhile Jamauri Brice continues to lead the receivers with 13 receptions for 230 yards and 3-TDs. The Canes defense is allowing 8.3 points per game and has shutout two of their opponents this season. 

The Cass Colonels have won four straight games entering this week’s game and seem to be clicking on offense. They have scored more than 40 points in each of their victories this season and are now averaging 32.5 points per game. Quarterback Brodie McWhorter is finding his stride and expect him to continue to look for receivers Sacovie White and Devin Henderson to help move the ball through the air. The offensive line is anchored by Kail Ellis and Bear McWhorter. They will certainly need to be on point against an aggressive Cartersville defensive front. Speaking of defense, Cass is allowing 16.3 points per game. 

If Cass can keep this game in the twenties, we like their chances this week. We believe this one is much closer than last season, but we believe Cartersville will be able to control the line of scrimmage on both sides. Canes by 8.

The Skinny

The Hiram Hornets are off to their best start since 2009 when they went undefeated in the regular season. The 2023 Hornets have had plenty of success on the ground, averaging 288.8 yards per game. Kaden Hamilton and Da’Shaun Williams have combined to rush for 1,044 and 15-TDs. Chase Tyler is the team’s leading receiver with 18 catches for 231 yards and 2-TDs. The Hornets defense has forced 14 turnovers and sacked opposing quarterbacks 19 times. They are allowing 18 points per game. 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets are looking to bounce back from last weeks heartbreaking loss to Cartersville. As we’ve mentioned before, the Jackets will lean on the play of quarterback Trey Townsend, running back Caden Williams and Tight End Emareee Winston. However, Kam Penny has shown some big play potential at wide receiver for Calhoun. The Jackets are averaging 29.8 points per game while the defense is allowing 17.8 points per game. 

There is still a lot to be determined in Region 7-5A, but if either of these teams have aspirations of hosting a home playoff game, they will need to find a way to win on Friday night. The Hornets ground game has been impressive. Can Calhoun avoid a letdown after last week’s loss? We believe Hiram will have their number again on Friday. Hornets by 5. 

The Skinny

The Sequoyah Chiefs got a come from behind victory last week to outlast the River Ridge Knights. Sequoyah had their largest offensive output of the season last week as they scored five touchdowns. Two of those Touchdowns by Ean Marria, who also doubles as a run stopping defensive end. The Chiefs were able to run the ball when they needed to and that’s a credit to their offensive line led by seniors Brady Curl, Dmitri Morris and Asher Martineau. Will Rajecki (274 yards, 2-TDs), Jackson Hancock (204 yards, 1-TD) and Ean Marria (162 yards, 4-TDs) have been the beneficiaries of that blocking by the Chiefs front five. Sequoyah is averaging 19.6 points per game. Defensively, the Chiefs have sacked opposing quarterbacks 22 times this season with sophomore Matthew Matz leading the way with 7. They’ve also forced 11 turnovers. 

The Rome Wolves flexed their muscle last week and ran away from Woodstock for their second consecutive region win. Rome quarterback Reece Fountain added to his passing numbers, as the senior signal caller has now thrown for 1,242 yards and 17-TDs. Special teams might come into play this week and if they do, watch for D.K. Daniel and Toot Stallings to show up big there for the Wolves. Rome’s defense has been dominant; in their five wins this season, they’ve only allowed three touchdowns. Speaking of defense, since joining Region 6-6A last season, Rome’s defense is allowing 4.5 points per game. In that eight game stretch, they’ve only allowed five touchdowns. 

All signs point to Rome to continue their domination of Region 6-6A, but if there is a team defensively that might be able to slow them down, we believe Sequoyah might be up to the task. The Chiefs will have to force Rome turnovers and keep Fountain and the Wolves offense on the sidelines. We believe it’s possible, but not probably. Rome by three touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Lanier County Bulldogs are off to their best start since 2003. While the Bulldogs might not be lighting up the scoreboard, their defense has led the way allowing just 11.4 points per game. Tommy Manning and Erick Brown lead the team in total tackles with 39 and 29 respectively. The Bulldogs offense has been relatively balanced, averaging 150 yards per game through the air and 126.8 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Drake Woolford has thrown for 750 yards and 8-TDs and has added 166 yards and 3-TDs on the ground. His top receivers are B.J. Jones and Darien Taylor; the duo has combined for 28 receptions for 458 yards and 5-TDs. 

The Clinch County Panthers have won four straight games and are in search of their first region title since 2018. The Panthers have done most of their damage by way of the ground game as they are averaging 298.2 yards per game rushing and just 57.5 yard per game through the air. It has been a combination of Aaron Bryant and Jeremy Bell leading the way on the ground as they’ve combined to rush for 1,293 yards and 15-TDs. As a team, Clinch has amassed 1,789 yards rushing this season. They are averaging 31.6 points per game. Defensively, they are allowing 16 points per game. 

Lanier has never beaten Clinch in 25 tries. The closest Lanier has been was a 3-0 loss back in 2012. We believe both of these teams will put points on the board this weekend and this game will be closer than the 35 point Clinch win last year. The Panthers ground game should wear down Lanier late in the game. Clinch by 9. 

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GHSA Football Rankings – Week 8

Posted on October 1, 2023 by admin

The GHSA Football season turns the page to the second half of the regular season and while the fall temperatures are cooling off, the action on the field continues to heat up. Here is a look at our Top-10 teams in each of the 8 classifications.

Perhaps the biggest upset in Class 7A was Newton’s come from behind victory over Grayson. The loss drops Grayson from the rankings this week while Newton is up to No. 7. Westlake is back in at No. 10 this week. Perhaps the biggest matchup in Class 6A was the Lee County-Houston County tilt, which Lee County won by 9. The Trojans hold steady at No. 3 this week while the loss drops Houston down to No. 10.

Cartersville notched a come from behind victory of their own this past Friday, as they scored 21 unanswered to defeat region rival Calhoun. The Canes retain the top spot in our rankings, while Calhoun drops to No. 6 in the Class 5A rankings. The Top half of the Class 4A rankings remains unchanged, but the bottom half continues to be a roller coaster. Two teams are out, (Starr’s Mill and Holy Innocents), while Trinity Christian and Westminster are in at No. 8 and 9 respectively after vicotories over the aforementioned Starr’s Mill and Holy Innocents.

In Class 3A, Sandy Creek drops a few spots to No. 5, after losing to Class 5A Harris County. Otherwise there was relatively little movement in the Top-10 this week. Class 2A saw Appling County with a win over region rival Pierce County on Friday. That drops Pierce down one spot to No. 5 this week. Meanwhile, Cook is back in the poll at No. 9, while Toombs County makes their debut at No. 10.

Class A Division-I saw little movement as well. Brooks County is down to No. 10 after a defeat at the hands of Class 5A Bainbridge. Prince Avenue Christian fell to Monroe Area, but maintains the No. 1 spot this week. Finally, Class A-Division II was shaken up a little bit as Manchester defeated Macon County in a battle of Top-10 teams. Macon County drops to No. 6 this week. Meanwhile, Aquinas downed region rival Lincoln County. That win catapults them into the rankings at No. 9 this week while Wilcox County rounds out the Top-10 at No. 10.

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

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

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

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Eight Greats Around the State: Georgia High School Football Previews Week 7 – Part II

Posted on September 27, 2023 by admin

As we enter Week-7, Region races are beginning to tighten. This is our weekly feature where we take a look of eight of the more intriguing matchups across the state of Georgia. Here is Part II of our Eight Greats Around the State.

First up, Calhoun and Cartersville will face off in a battle of Top-10 teams in Class 5A. Calhoun won a thriller last season, will Cartersville return the favor this season? Over in Leesburg, the Lee County Trojans will host the red hot Houston County Bears. Will the Lee County defense find a way to ground the Bears aerial assault?

Down in Ocilla, the Irwin County Indians will look to bounce back against a dangerous Swainsboro Tiger team. Can Irwin County put the brakes on the Swainsboro ground game? Finally, in a non-region battle, the North Paulding Wolfpack will host the Walton Raiders. Are the Wolfpack ready to be a contender amongst the state’s best, or will Walton continue their dominance?

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

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

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

The Skinny

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets are winners of their last four games. Since being held to just 7 points in their season opener, the Jackets offense has been lights out. On the season, they are averaging 32.4 points per game. The offense has leaned on big plays from quarterback Trey Townsend, tight end Emareee Winston and running back Caden Williams. Townsend has thrown for 1,025 yards and 13-TDs. Calhoun’s defense has been steady, allowing 17.2 points per game. Keep your eye out for Kristyane Gregory on the defensive line as he has been extremely disruptive in the first half of the season. 

The Cartersville Purple Hurricanes start the season 5-0 for the third straight year. The offense is churning out 337.8 yards per game. The Canes have used a trio of backs to get the ground game going as Khristian Lando (259 yards, 7-TDs), Richard Houston (236 yards, 1-TD) and Baylon Long (226 yards, 3-TDs) have all been major contributors to the offense. Sophomore quarterback Nate Russell has thrown for 620 yards and 6-TDs while completing 61.1% of his passes. Jamauri Brice leads all receivers with 10 receptions for 205 yards. 

There will be an interesting battle going on in the trenches as Cartersville’s Luke Surrett and Malachi Toliver will battle Calhoun’s Gregory for supremacy along the line of scrimmage. Something tells us this will go down to the wire again. We believe Cartersville edges out Calhoun in a little bit of revenge. Canes by 3. 

The Skinny

Lee County got back in the win column last week with a win over Lake Gibson, Florida. The Trojan’s only loss this season came at the hands of Class 7A Colquitt County. Junior running back Ousmane Kromah has rushed for 586 yards and 8-TDs to lead the ground game. Devin Collier has chipped in 282 yards on the ground and 6-TDs. Kromah also leads the team in receiving with 15 catches for 233 yards and 4-TDs. Lee County has relied heavily on the ground game as they are averaging almost 240 yards per game on the ground and 128.2 yards per game through the air. The Trojans defense is allowing 19.2 points per game. They’ve sacked opposing quarterbacks 24 times with Jaydon Cory and Leroy Jackson leading the way with six sacks a piece. 

The Houston County Bears continued to light up the scoreboard last week as they scored 41 points in the victory. The Bears are averaging 50 points per game. They have done most of their damage through the air, averaging 269 yards per game through the air and 162.4 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Antwann Hill Jr. has thrown for 1,254 yards and 18-TDs while completing 74.6% of his passes. Ricky Johnson has caught 29 passes for 624 yards and 9-TDs. Fifteen different receivers have caught passes for Houston County. The Bears defense is allowing 16 points per game. 

While a win by either team won’t guarantee a region title, it certainly would set the winner up nicely in perhaps the toughest region in Class 6A. Lee County’s defense should be able to slow down Houston County this week. But they won’t be able to stop them. Bears by 6.

The Skinny

The Irwin County Indians will be looking to bounce back after being upset last week by Metter. The Indians have played some of the better competition for a team in their classification. The offense is averaging 22.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 26.4. If you have read any of our previous previews, you know that the Indians will look to control there ground game with running back Shane Marshall and Jaken Thomas. However, Luke Snyder has shown more and more of his passing ability over the last few weeks while Zay Payne has emerged to a go-to receiver for the Indians. 

The Swainsboro Tigers have quietly put together an impressive 5-0 start. The Tigers are averaging 31 points per game. Just about all of the offense of the Tigers has come on the ground. They are averaging just under 300 rushing yards per game and just 34 yards per game through the air. Swainsboro has only attempted 25 passes this season. Jordon Williams (434 yards, 8-TDs), Qin Brown (398 yards, 4-TDs), Demello Jones (323 yards, 2-TDs) and Bryson Carver (256 yards, 4-TDs) have been the four headed monster that has powered the ground game this season. Defensively, the Tigers are allowing 6.4 points per game. Jerrod Steward and La’Marqus Webb lead the team in total tackles with 59 and 54 respectively. 

Irwin County will have to get back on track offensively, but the problem this week is that they might not get that many possession with the Swainsboro ground game. The Tigers seems to have been more consistent so far this season and we expect that to continue this week. Swainsboro by 11.

The Skinny

The North Paulding Wolfpack have started the season with five straight wins for the first time since 2018. The Wolfpack are outscoring opponents 33-15 at the midway point. North is led offensively by quarterback Tyler Niehr (1,212 yards, 10-TDs) and receiver/athlete Javarius George (14 receptions, 423 yards, 3-TDs). The Wolfpack are averaging 248.8 yards per game through the air and 189.8 yards per game on the ground. North has used a few running backs this season Calvin Scott and Jayden Clayton have shared the load this season. Aidan Maddox leads the defense with 47 total tackles and 5.5 sacks. Speaking of sacks, North has sacked opposing quarterbacks 21 times already this season.

The Walton Raiders look to be laser focus on making a deep playoff run this season. Senior quarterback Jeremy Hecklinksi has continued to rack up the passing yards as he has thrown for 905 yards and 12-TDs. Wyatt Sonderman, (18 receptions, 264 yards, 4-TDs), Cameron Loyd (17 receptions, 334 yards, 3-TDs) and tight end Hunter Teal (12 receptions 155 yards, 1-TD) have led the Raiders receiving corps. Mean while Makari Bodiford and Austin Williams have combined to rush for 584 yards and 11-TDs.  Ashton Woods leads the defense with 38 total tackles while Wendell Gregory has recorded 5 sacks. The defense is allowing just 14.2 points per game and have forced 10 turnovers.

The Raiders have yet to be tested in earnest this season, so we will certainly be interested to see if North Paulding is ready to make statement and push Walton this week. This game should be close early, but we expect Walton’s depth at the skill position to take it’s toll and wear down the Wolfpack. Walton by 16.

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Eight Greats Around the State: Georgia High School Football Previews Week 7 – Part I

Posted on September 27, 2023 by admin

As we enter Week-7, Region races are beginning to tighten. This is our weekly feature where we take a look of eight of the more intriguing matchups across the state of Georgia. Here is Part II of our Eight Greats Around the State.

First up, the Grayson Rams have seemingly bounced back from their Week-1 loss and will host the Newton Rams, who have charged onto the scene this season. Is Newton ready to compete for a region title or will Grayson continue its dominance in the series? Next up, in Class 2A, the Pierce County Bears will renew their rivalry with Appling County. The winner of this game will undoubtedly have the inside track to the region crown.

In Roswell, the two prohibitive favorites for the region 7-6A title, Blessed Trinity and Roswell will face off. These rivals are literally just across the street from one another. Will Blessed Trinity defend home turf or will Roswell win the battle of Crossville Road. Finally, in Tiger there’s an intriguing non-region matchup as Rabun County hosts Fellowship Christian. The Paladins make the trip to Northeast Georgia, will their defense be able to slow down Rabun and will they be able to get the ground game going?

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

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

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

The Skinny

The Grayson Rams have reeled off four straight victories as they enter region play this week. During that win streak, the Rams have shutout three of their four opponents. On the year they are allowing 13.6 points per game while scoring 42.4. Quarterback Jeff Davis has completed 75.2% of his passes for 1,198 yards and 16-TDs. Davis has spread the ball around to several receivers, but his top target has been John Cineas who has caught 22 passes for 336 yards and 4-TDs. Juniors Alex Sanchez and Aiden Taylor have combined to catch 45 passes for 556 yards and 7-TDs. On the defensive side of the ball, sophomore Tyler Atkinson has been a pleasant surprise as he leads the team in solo tackles (35) and sacks (5). As a team, the Rams have sacked opposing quarterbacks 14 times. 

The Newton Rams have opened the season with five straight wins for the first time since 1950. They are averaging 37 points per game, but it has been their defense that has made waves this season, allowing just 5.2 points per game. They have recorded two shutouts to date. On offense, the Rams are lead by junior running back Zion Johnson who has tallied 771 yards and 10-TDs, while sophomore quarterback Deron Benson has thrown for 625 yards and 9-TDs. His top receivers have been Marcus Calwise and Keon Davis who have combined for 565 yards and 7-TDs. 

Newton has never defeated Grayson and to do so this week their defense is going to have to have another great performance. We believe that is possible, but not probable. Newton makes it close, but we like Grayson by 8.

The Skinny

The Pierce County Bears are off to a 5-0 start for the second consecutive season. The Bears are averaging 48.2 points per game through this streak which is slightly better than their scoring through the same period last year. They are lead by junior quarterback Caden McGatha, who has thrown for 748 yards and 11-TDs and rushed for 445 yards and 7-TDs. The Bears have done more of there damage on the ground as they are averaging over 220 yards per game on the ground and just 149.5 yards per game through the air. McGatha is joined by Marquez Leggett and freshman Jaeveon Williams. Meanwhile expect for receivers Joe Drew and Nigel Brown to have the most targets at receiver. 

The Appling County Pirates have won 3 straight games leading into this week’s tilt. The Pirates were off last week and will look to make it back to back wins against their rival. This is a dangerous Pirates team that has an experienced quarterback in Dayson Griffis. He is surrounded by a couple of explosive offensive weapons including running back Jamarion “the truck” Williams, who has a unique combination of power and speed; and Camden Hickox who also has game breaking speed at wide receiver. Appling is averaging 33 points per game and allowing 11. 

We know that Pierce has been lighting up the scoreboard this season and still believe they are one of the top teams in Class 2A, Appling looks to be a little more battle tested. We expect that to be the difference this week. Pirates by 6.

The Skinny

The Blessed Trinity Titans opened up region play with a big win over Sprayberry last week. Now they will face the prohibitive favorite to win the region crown. BT is averaging 24.8 points per game. Quarterback Brooks Goodman has thrown for 778 yards and 5-TDs and has not been intercepted this season. Bryce Lewis is the team’s leading receiver with 11 receptions for 156 yards and 2-TDs, however, 12 separate receivers have caught passes so far this season for the Titans. Kameron Betts leads the team in rushing yards with 223 and 2-TDs. Freshmen D.J. Jacobs continues to lead the defense in total tackles. The defense has also recorded 7 sacks on the season and is allowing 11 points per game.

The Roswell Hornets will make the short trek across Crossville Road to face their region rival and the most serious threat to another region crown. The Hornets recorded their second shutout of the season as they blanked Johns Creek last week. Save for their game against Milton, Roswell’s offense has been prolific, averaging 46.6 points per game behind the leadership of senior quarterback K.J. Smith. Smith has thrown for 921 yards and 15-TDs while completing 68.8% of his passes. Senior Nykahi Davenport has rushed for 482 yards and 8-TDs to lead the ground game. He’s been boosted by the blocking of senior lineman Anthonie Knapp and company. Defensively, Roswell is allowing 11 points per game. 

As we eluded to early, this game should determine the top two seeds in the region after all of the dust settles. Blessed Trinity will have to find a way to sustain drives and keep Smith and Davenport on the sidelines. Easier said than done. We like Roswell by 10. 

The Skinny

The Rabun County Wildcats have won three straight games entering this week’s contest and have seemed to shaken off a loss to Class 3A Stephens County. Quarterback Ty Truelove has now surpassed the 1,000 yard mark passing with 12-TDs on the season. Top receiving targets include Willie Goodwin (21 receptions, 557 yards, 8-TDs) and Paul Picciotti (15 receptions, 205 yards, 1-TD). Reid Giles and Noah English have combined to rush for 587 yards and 7-TDs. English also leads the defense in total tackles with 52 while junior linebacker Elvis Hunt has recorded 48 total tackles. 

The Fellowship Christian Paladins are wrapping up their non-region slate of games this week and are looking to run their win streak to three games. On the season, the Paladins area averaging 38.2 points per game while allowing 16.2. The bulk of their offensive production has come on the legs of sophomore running back C.J. Givers, who has rushed for 588 yards and 9-TDs. Givers will run behind a line anchored by highly toughed prospect Joshua Petty. 

Despite Rabun’s propensity to put up big numbers, we expect that the Fellowship Christian defense will answer the bell. We beleive the score will be in the 20s, but we do like Rabun by 4. 

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GHSA Football Rankings – Week 7

Posted on September 24, 2023 by admin

As calm as last week was with regards to upsets, this week was quite the opposite as rankings in almost all of the classes were turned upside down after Friday night’s results. This is our weekly feature in which we rank the top teams in each of the classifications for Georgia High School Football.

Perhaps the biggest surprise in 7A was North Cobb beating Milton, at Milton. The win for the Warriors puts them in the rankings for the first time this season at No. 7 while Milton falls to No. 9. Meanwhile, the Newton Rams finally crack the Top-10 at No. 8. Parkview is down to No. 10 after their loss to Mill Creek. In Class 6A, Douglas County pulled the biggest upset, downing the defending state champs and previous No. 2 Langston Hughes. With the win, the Tigers are up to No. 6 this week while Hughes falls to No. 8. Brunswick drops out of the poll after an overtime loss to rival Glynn Academy. That made room for North Atlanta to settle in at No. 10.

Down in Class 5A, Ware County dropped a game to Class 4A Bainbridge which was a surprise to us. That loss drops the Gators down to No. 10 this week. Meanwhile, Warner Robins got the short end of the stick in a middle Georgia battle as they fell to Class 6A Houston County. The loss drops Warner Robins to No. 9 this week. The big upset in Class 4A was Starr’s Mill defeating Troup County. The win catapults Starr’s Mill into the rankings this week at No. 9 while Troup falls all the way to No. 10. One other team of note, Spalding shut out Baldwin, who was previously No. 6. The win for Spalding moves them up to No. 6 this week while Baldwin fell out of the Top-10.

In Class 3A there were no real surprises. Calvary Day won a battle of Top-10 teams as they defeated Savannah Christian. As a result of that game, Savannah Christian falls to No. 10. The rankings in Class 2A remained the same this week as those teams in action avoided upsets.

Down in Class A-Division I, Irwin County was upset by Metter. The loss drops the Irwin from the Top-10 this week for the first time in a few years. Meanwhile, Lamar County is back in at No. 10 for the first time in a few weeks. In Class A-Division II, Schley County continued their mastery of this classification as they knocked off previous No. 2 Macon County by 24. The loss by Macon drops them to No. 4 this week.

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

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

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

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Eight Greats Around the State: Georgia High School Football Previews Week 6 – Part II

Posted on September 20, 2023 by admin

We have officially reached the halfway point of the Georgia High School Football season. Many teams have already begun region play and in this edition of our Eight Greats Around the State, we feature some matchups that should go a long way in determining either region champions and perhaps a first round home playoff game.

First up, the Colquitt County Packers will host the Cedar Grove Saints. The Saints will be facing their fourth consecutive Class 7A team. Will they be able to keep pace with the Packers this week? Down in Pooler, the Savannah Christian Raiders will host rival Calvary Day. The Raiders are looking to pick up another region title, but Calvary Day quarterback Jake Merklinger and company have plans for a back-to back region titles. This game might just determine the No. 1 and No. 2 seed.

Over in Doulgasville, there is a big matchup of two high powered offense as the Douglas County Tigers host the defending Class 6A state champs, the Langston Hughes Panthers. The Panthers can really put a hold on Region 5 with a win over Douglas County, but Sire Hardaway and the Tigers should have enough in the tank to make this a back and forth affair. Finally, the Parkview Panthers will host defending 7A state champ, Mill Creek. This game features two of the top teams in Gwinnett County. Can the Panthers keep rolling or will quarterback Shane Throgmartin continue his hot start?

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

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

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

The Skinny

Colquitt County will get back to work after the bye week. The Packers have won all of their games by at least 17-points this season. They are averaging 196 yards per game on the ground and 243 yards per game through the air. Quarterback Neko Fann has thrown for 937 yards and 14-TDs while completing 63% of his passes. Ny Carr continues to lead Colquit with 30 receptions for 489 yards and 9-TDs. Meanwhile Landen Thomas and Zay Williams have combined for 31 receptions for 352 yards and 4-TDs. The Packers defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 11 times while the secondary has intercepted 5 passes. 

The Cedar Grove Saints continue their mission impossible tour as they will face their fourth straight Class 7A opponent. The Saints offense has ben outstanding, averaging 37.8 points per game. However the defense is allowing 42.2. A lot of that has to do with some of the higher classification, explosive offenses that the Saints have faced in the first five weeks of the season. Through the first four games, Quarterback E.J. Colson has thrown for 643 yards, 10-TDs and rushed for 251 yards and 2-TDs. Boden Walker leads the team with 371 yards and 7-TDs in four games.  

We expect this game to be a track meet with plenty of points on both sides. Ultimately we believe the depth of Colquitt along with the long long bus ride to Moultrie will do Cedar Grove in. Packers by 16.

The Skinny

The Savannah Christian Raiders had no trouble getting back on track after the bye week as they recorded their second shutout of the season. The Raiders are averaging 356.3 yards of offense per game. Quarterback Blaise Thomas has thrown for 606 yards and 4-TDs while completing 64% of his passes. Logan Brooking and David Bucey continue to lead the Raiders receiving unit with a combined 21 receptions for 342 yards and 3-TDs. Meanwhile, Zo Smalls (424 yards, 8-TDs) and Kenry Walls (222 yards, 2-TDs) pace the ground game. Freshman defensive end, Ladamion Guyton leads the defense with 5.5 sacks while junior lineman Elijah Griffin has 4.5 sacks of his own.

The Calvary Day Cavaliers have been posting video game type numbers on offense this season, averaging 52.7 points per game. The offense is paced by senior quarterback Jake Merklinger who has thrown for 858 yards and 12-TDs, completing 65.7% of his passes and has yet to throw an interception. The trio of Caden Arnold, Michael Smith and Thomas Blackshear have the bulk of the production with 39 combined receptions for 790 yards and 12-TDs. Six separate running backs have carried the ball more than 8 times with Jordan Tillman and Trevor Strowbridge leading the team in attempts and yardage. Don’t sleep on the Calvary Day defense, they’ve held the opposition to just 7.7 points per game. They’ve also forced 10 turnovers.

This game will go a long way in determining the region title as these two are expected to finish at the top of the region. (Although Coach Pfiester and the Long County Blue Tide might have something to say about that later this season.) Mercklinger is the more accomplished passer in this game and we believe his accuracy and decision making will lead the Cavs to victory. Calvary Day by 7.

The Skinny

The Douglas County Tigers have run their record to 4-0 for the second time in three seasons. They are averaging 41 points per game during this win streak. Quarterback Sire Hardaway has thrown for 1,056 yards and 9-TDs while completing 76.8% of his passes. Hardaway’s top receivers have been the trio of James Johnson (18 receptions, 299 yards, 3-TDs), Brandon Ellison (18 receptions, 245 yards), and Aaron Gregory (18 receptions, 293 yards, 3-TDs). The Tigers are averaging 185 yards per game on the ground. The Tigers defense is allowing 19.5 points per game and have sacked opposing quarterbacks 9 times while forcing 7 turnovers. 

The Langston Hughes Panthers got back in the wind column with a shutout win last week. While much of the attention for the Panthers offense might be around their quarterback,  Prentiss “Air” Noland, it’s the running game that has taken center stage for the offense this season. They are averaging 261.8 yards per game on the ground. Justus Savage and Dorian Page have combined for 818 yards and 12-TDs. Defensively the Panthers are allowing 18.2 points per game. Junior defensive tackle Quavion Pitts leads the team with 5 sacks.

While this is the region opener for both teams. This could end up being the defacto region title game. Expect plenty of points in this game as both teams have playmakers, but we believe the Panther’s duo of Savage and Page will be the difference. Langston Hughes by 8.

The Skinny

The Parkview Panthers wrap up their non-region schedule looking to run their record to 5-0 for the first time since 2018. Parkview is averaging 46.5 points per game while churning out 314 yards of total offense per game. Trelain Maddox has filled in well for the injured Khyair Spain as Maddox has rushed for 336 yards and 7-TDs to lead the Panthers rushing attack. Meanwhile Michael Mathews and Carson Wilson have combined for 18 receptions and 398 yards and 2-TDs. The Parkview defense is allowing 14 points a game and has already recorded two shutouts this season. They’ve sacked opposing quarterbacks 21 times as Ian Singleton leads the team in total tackles (29) and sacks (5).

The Mill Creek Hawks are the defending state champions and the don’t seem to have shown any sings of slowing down thus far. The Hawks have won 12 consecutive games dating back to last season. They are averaging 43.5 points per game behind first year starter Shane Throgmartin. The junior signal caller has thrown for 549 yards and 10-TDs and no interceptions while completing 76.1% of his passes. Cam Robinson and Daniel Smith have combined to rush for 779 yards and 11-TDs, as the Hawks are averaging 311.6 yards per game. 

We expect another high scoring matchup. Our question is whether Parkview’s defense will be able to keep Throgmartin off balance. We believe Parkview will force a turnover or two, but Mill Creek should still do enough on the ground to grind out a win. Hawks by 8.

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Eight Greats Around the State: Georgia High School Football Previews Week 6 – Part I

Posted on September 20, 2023 by admin

We have officially reached the halfway point of the Georgia High School Football season. Many teams have already begun region play and in this edition of our Eight Greats Around the State, we feature some matchups that should go a long way in determining either region champions and perhaps a first round home playoff game.

First up, the Spalding Jaguars host the Baldwin Braves. Can Spalding quarterback Curt Clark continue his impressive season or will the Braves defense play another great game this week? Next up, the Bainbridge Bearcats host the Ware County Gators. The Bearcats will look to string together consecutive wins for the first time this season, while the Gators offense looks to stay explosive on the road.

Down in Ellaville, we could be looking at the Region 6 Class A-D II title game as Schley Co. hosts Macon Co. Will Macon figure out how to slow down this potent Schley County offense? Finally, in Warner Robins, the Demons will host Houston County. This game should be a great quarterback dual as Robins’ QB Judd Anderson squares off against Houston’s QB Antwann Hill Jr.

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

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

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

The Skinny

The Spalding Jaguars are off to their best start since 2015. Spalding is averaging 37.7 points per game and are on pace to score more points than any other team in school history. Spalding is led offensively by dual threat quarterback Curt Clark who has thrown for 504 yards and 7-TDs and rushed for 389 yards and 4-TDs. Clark is joined in the backfield by Robert Henderson who has added 163 yards and 4-TDs of his own. Meanwhile, Cedric Evans has been the big playmaker at receiver for the Jaguars with 18 receptions for 290 yards and 4-TDs. 

The Baldwin Braves got back to their winning ways with a 10-point victory over Washington County. The Braves have done most of their damage on the ground with Micah Welch as the bellcow for the offense. Welch has already rushed for well over 400 yards this season. The senior back is trying to improve on his 1,300 yard season from a year ago. Sophomore back Sadur Salahuddin has added 286 yards and a touchdown in three games this season. 

This game is the first region matchup for both teams, but it’s a big one as these are the two teams that we believe could challenge Perry for a region title. Baldwin will need to make sure they limit the big plays of Curt Clark. They have an offense that might be able to keep Spalding’s explosive Clark on the sidelines. However, we believe Spalding defends home turf. Jaguars by 6.

The Skinny

The Bainbridge Bearcats got back to .500 last week with a victory over Thomasville. The Bearcats have faced a ranked opponent in each of their previous four games this season. It should come as no surprise that Bainbridge has been getting the ground game going this season as they are averaging 214.5 yards per game on the ground and 120.3 yards per game through the air. Keenan Phillips has answered the bell for the ground game, as he’s rushed for 631 yards and 8-TDs. Quarterback Cam Sanders hs completed 64.2% of his passes with 5-TDs. Antavious Murphy Leeds the team in receiving with 20 catches for 299 yards and 5-TDs. 

The Ware Count Gators were off last week and we can only guess that they are smarting after a loss in their last outing. The Gators have gotten a lot of their yards through the air as quarterback Luke Hooks has thrown fir 675 yards and 5-TDs while completing 64% of his passes. Quintun Orange leads all Gator receivers with 17 catches for 287 yards, R.J. Boyd and Daw’Jeaun Dennis lead Ware in rushing with 500 yards and 5-TDs. 

We believe Bainbridge will look to slow this game down and make it a slugfest, utilizing  Phillips to help play a little ball control offense. We believe that plan works for the first three quarters, but we expect Ware to edge Baingridge late. Ware County by 4.

The Skinny

The Schley County Wildcats have run their record to 4-0 for the second time in three years and have continued to light up the scoreboard as the offense is averaging 45.2 points per game. They are generating 376 yards per game of total offense. Quarterback Jay Kanazawa has thrown for 794 yards and 13-TDs and his just thrown 1 interception in 96 pass attempts. Jalewis Solomon has caught 20 passes for 360 yards and 5-TDs. The Schley County defense is allowing 19 points per game. They have also forced a staggering 15 turnovers this season in just 4 games. 

The Macon County Bulldogs have also run their record to 4-0 for the second time in three years. The Bulldogs offense has been rolling with the ground game, averaging 208.8 yards per game rushing and 119.3 yards per game through the air. It’s really been running back by committee by as quarterback Brian Harris, and running backs Tyler Felder, KhaiMadj Patterson and Tyler Stephens have combined to rush for 767 yards and 11-TDs. Harris has been efficient throwing the ball, completing 69.2% of his passes on the season. Dontrell Hudson and Ray Ray Mobley lead the Bulldogs defense with 22 total tackles a piece. 

This game continues with our theme of potential “region title” games played in the first week of region play. We just don’t know if any other team can challenge Macon or Schley this season. While we believe Macon’s ground game can be the equalizer, Schley is playing at a higher level this season. We like the Wildcats by 10 at home. 

The Skinny

The Warner Robins Demons picked up an important region win last week and now will face another Class 6A, out of region, Houston County foe. The Demons are averaging 24.7 points per game. However, in their two wins, the Demons are averaging 34 points per game. In the two, losses, the offense is averaging 15.5 points per game. Since joining the Warner Robins team a little over three weeks ago, quarterback Judd Anderson has thrown for 535 yards and 6-TDs. Defensively, the Demons are allowing 32 points per game. That’s the most in their opening four games since 2016 when they allowed 45.6 points per game through the first 4 games. 

The Houston County Bears are 4-0 for the second consecutive season. They have been putting up video game like numbers and have only been really tested once this season in a 7-point victory over Perry. The offense is averaging 52.5 points per game. Going into last week, the leading passer and receiver in Class 6A both suit up for Houston County as Antwann Hill has thrown for 989 yards while Ricky Johnson has 511 receiving yards. The Houston Count defense has been pretty good, allowing just over 18 points per game. 

This game will feature two of the top quarterbacks not just in middle Georgia, but in the entire state. We believe the outcome will center heavily on quarterback play. Expect for this game to be closer than last year’s 20 point Bears victory. But we do like Houston County’s air raid attack. Bears by 9.

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GHSA Football Rankings – Week 6

Posted on September 17, 2023 by admin

We are rapidly approaching the halfway point of the high school football season in Georgia. The wheat is slowly separating itself from the chaff as there were not many upsets this past week. Here is a look at our Top-10 in each classification.

In Class 7A, the top 8 remains unchanged. It was East Coweta scoring a big win over Lowndes and Valdosta secured their first shutout of the season. Those two results launch East Coweta and Valdosta into the rankings at No. 9 and No. 10 respectively this week. Over in Class 6A, Marist won a Top-10 battle over Blessed Trinity, knocking the Titans out of the rankings this week. The Douglas County Tigers replace Blessed Trinity at No. 10.

In Class 3A, Cedar Grove remains at No. 1 despite falling to Class 7A Mill Creek. Meanwhile Morgan County defeated Monroe Area in a battle of Top-10 teams. The loss drops Monroe Area out of the rankings and makes room for Thomasville to jump back at No. 10. Finally, in Class A Division II, Lanier County got a big shutout win over McIntosh County. That vaults Lanier into the the Top-10 at No. 6. Jenkins County got a big shutout win over Screven County which was enough to get them in at No. 9 this week.

There was no change in the rankings for Class 5A, Class 4A, Class 2A and Class A- Division I this week.

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

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

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

AAAAAAA

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A – DIVISION I

A – DIVISION II

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews Part II – Week 5

Posted on September 13, 2023 by admin

It’s hard to believe that we’ve almost reached the midpoint of the high school football season in the great state of Georgia. This is Part-II of our weekly feature where we preview some of the intriguing high school football matchups.

First up, the Mill Creek Hawks will host the Cedar Grove Saints. The Saints have not shied away from playing top competition. Will they find a way to knock off the defending 7A State Champs on the arm of quarterback E.J. Colson? Down in Middle Georgia, the Northeast Macon Raiders will host the ACE Charter Gryphons. ACE is an up and coming program looking to take the next step and knock off a top ranked region foe. Will the Raiders make it three big wins in a row or will ACE make their next breakthrough?

Our next game will keep us in Middle Georgia as the Northside Eagles will host North Cobb in Warner Robins. The Eagles are looking for a signature win against a 7A opponent, while North Cobb is trying to get back to .500. Will the Northside defense figure out how to slow down North Cobb’s explosive David Ezioumume? Finally, in North Georgia, the Northwest Bruins will host the Darlington Tigers. Darlington will look to ground the pass happy attack of the Bruins; while Northwest is looking to exact a measure of revenge on the Tigers.

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

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

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

The Skinny

The Mill Creek Hawks have won 11 consecutive games dating back to last season The Hawks enter this week with an offense that is averaging 39.3 points per game. They have a balanced attack, averaging 148 yards per game through the air and 163.7 yards per game on the ground. Junior quarterback Shane Throgmartin has been efficient this season completing 75.9% of his passes for 444 yards and 7-TDs and has yet to throw an interception. Senior receiver Trajan Greco paces all of the receivers with 13 catches for 175 yards and 4-TDs. Josh Anglin leads the defense with 22 total tackles while King Joseph Edwards paces the defense with 2 sacks on the young season.

The Cedar Grove Saints will face their third consecutive 7A team. An impressive feat for a 3A school. The Saints are 1-1 against 7A competition this season and after this week’s matchup, they will face another 7A power in Colquitt County. The Saints are averaging 38.5 points per game and seemed to have not lost a step from a season ago. Junior quarterback Elliot Colson has thrown for well over 500 yards on the season and over 8-TDs. Sophomore running back Boden Walker has shown his versatility as a runner and receiver as he’s tops on the team in rushing and receiving.  

The Saints have proven they are one of the top teams in Georgia over the past several seasons, so it is no surprise they are scheduling tougher competition in advance of region play. We expect the Saints to keep this game close with Colson’s experience at quarterback. But Throgmartin might have more weapons this week. Mill Creek by 10.

The Skinny

The Northeast Raiders begin region play against one of the opponents that might derail any region title aspirations. The Raiders have bounced back from a Week-1 loss to score impressive wins over Fitzgerald and Carver-Columbus. The Raiders are averaging 22 points per game. A lot of the offensive productions has come from running back Nick Woodford, who has rushed for 457 yards and 4-TDs in the first three games. Woodford has also tossed a touchdown pass as well. Defensively, the Raiders are allowing 19.3 points per game. 

The ACE Charter Gryphons have won their opening four games for the second straight season. What’s most impressive about this is that ACE has only been playing football for six seasons. The Gryphons have been obliterating the opposition early in the year, included three shutouts. The Gryphons defense is allowing just two points per game. Meanwhile the ACE offense is averaging 52.5 points per game. Wide receiver Brice Whitley, running back Aaron Davis and quarterback Kaleb Scarbary have paced the dynamic offense.

The Gryphons have been red hot, but they will take a large step up in competition this week. We believe the Gryphons will be able to put s scare into the Raiders, but expect for Nick Woodford to have a big game and that will enough to hold of ACE Charter. Raiders by 8. 

The Skinny

The Northside Warner Robins Eagles were off last week after suffering a heartbreaking loss to rival Warner Robins. The Demons are averaging 150.3 yards per game through the air and 111 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Damien Dee has thrown for 451 yards and 7 TDs and is completing 62.7% of his passes. Keron Milton Jr. Has been his top receiver with 13 grabs for 252 yards and 5-TDs. E.J. Riley leads the team in rushing with 118 yards and 2-TDs. Defensively, Northside is allowing just over 25 points per game. Jarris Coney leads the team in total tackles and sacks (20, 2) while Ricardo Jones leads the team with 2-interceptions. 

The North Cobb Warriors picked up their first win of the season last week. The Warriors have had one of the more challenging schedules earlier in the season including two Top-10 teams in Class 7A. Offensively, the Warriors are averaging 29.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 39.6. Quarterback Nick Grimstead has shown accuracy and an ability to beat teams with his running ability as well. He’s paired in the backfield most downs with David Ezioumume who can run in between the tackles and can run away from defenders once he gets to the second level. 

We believe this game will be just as close as last years contest. North Cobb is a little more battle tested and despite making the long road trip, we like the Warriors to return the favor and defeat the Eagles by 3.

The Skinny

The Northwest Whitfield Bruins have started off this season on a torrid pace passing the football. Sophomore quarterback Gavin Nuckolls has already surpassed the 1,00 yard mark in passing yards, with 1,144 and 12-TDs. He’s only thrown one interceptions in 124 pass attempts. Nuckolls has completed passes to eleven separate receivers with Hudson Gray (21 receptions, 371 yardes, 5-TDs) and Akendris Douglas (19 receptions, 256 yards, 2-TDs) leading the way. Meanwhile Cameron Collins leads the team in rushing with 216 yards and 3-TDs. The aforementioned Nuckolls is second on the team in rushing with 141 yards.

The Darlington Tigers recorded their first shutout of the young season when they blanked Christian Heritage. Prior to last week’s shutout, the Tigers were allowing 31.5 points per game. However now they’ve improved that to 21 points per game. Offensively, we expect D’Marion Floyd to get the bulk of the carries at running back. This is a Darlington offense that hasn’t lost much steam from last year’s pace as they are averaging 34.3 points per game this season. 

The step up in competition should not phase Darlington at all this week as they defeated Northwest last season. However, the Bruins are at home this week and they’ve seemed to found a groove through the air. We like Northwest by 8.

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Eight Greats Around the State – Georgia High School Football Previews Part I– Week 5

Posted on September 13, 2023 by admin

It’s hard to believe that we’ve almost reached the midpoint of the high school football season in the great state of Georgia. This is our weekly feature where we preview some of the intriguing high school football matchups.

Our first matchup takes us to Roswell as the Blessed Trinity Titans will host the Marist War Eagles. Blessed Trinity escaped with a victory over St. Pius last week. Will the Titans be able to figure out the Marist option attack? Down in Ocilla, the Irwin County Indians will host the Rockmart Yellow Jackets. The Jackets will make the almost 4 hour trip to try to avenge one of last year’s losses. Will the Jackets be able to slow down the Irwin County run game?

Over in Lincolnton, the Lincoln County Red Devils and Commerce Tigers will lock horns for the 22nd time. Both of these teams will look to impose their will on the ground. Finally, up in Dahlonega, the Mason Sullens show marches on as the Lumpkin County running back is quickly encroaching on a 1,000 yards rushing. Can Hart County find a way to out duel the Indians?

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

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

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

The Skinny

The Blessed Trinity Titans have won their first three games for the second straight season. The Titans are led on offense by quarterback Brooks Goodman has thrown for 502 yards and 3-TDs with no interceptions. Goodman’s top receivers have been Zyon McKenzie, Bryce, Lewis, Quinn Davis and Logan Crispo who have combined for 28 receptions and 372 yards. Running back Kameron Betts leads the team in rushing with 155 yards and 2-TDs. The Titans are averaging 26.3 points per game while allowing just 7. Defensively, freshman D.J. Jacobs leads the team with 20 total tackles. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 6 sacks. 

The Marist War Eagles have now won three consecutive games and will look to even this series up with a win on Friday night. Quarterback Jack Euart continued to show effectiveness through the air last week. However, we understand that Marist is a run first offensive team. Fullback Jackson Hughes will look to gash the interior of the Titan’s defense this week. At 225lbs, Hughes is a load to bring down and he’s proven he does have some speed in the open field. Through four games, Marist is averaging 26.5 points per game while allowing 16.2 points per game. 

Expect for Blessed Trinity to test the Marist secondary early and often. We believe the key to this game is whether or not Marist can establish their ground game. We believe the War Eagles do just enough this week to get past the Titans. Marist by 4.

The Skinny

Last week, Irwin County defeated Turner County on the heels of their offensive strength. The Indians tallied more than 500 rushing yards in the victory. Shane Marshall is the leader of that group, but Wesley Walters and Jaken Thomas have shown the are more than capable of adding to the dynamic rushing attack. Quarterback Luke Snyder has also shown that he is capable of doing more than just handing the ball off to his running backs as he’s shown consistency in completing passes in the short and intermediate routes. The Indians are averaging 27.3 points per game while allowing 28.

The Rockmart Yellow Jackets lost last week to Class 5-A Dalton by a touchdown. Now the 2A school will make the long road trip to Ocilla to face Irwin. Quarterbacks J.D. Davis and Calliyon Thompson have combined to pass for 367 yards on the season with one passing TD between them. Jake Bailey has been the primary target for the Jackets quarterbacks. The senior has caught 11 passes for 187 yards and a touchdown. Senior running backs Brent Washington and Nahzir Turner have combined to rush for 280 yards and 3-TDs. Defensively, the Jackets are allowing 19 points per game and have sacked opposing quarterbacks 8 times in 3 games. 

Both of Rockmart’s losses have come at the hands of teams in higher. Classifications by a combined total of 8-points. Our biggest question is how will they handle the long road trip to South Georgia. We believe this game will be just as close as their other games this season. Our heart tells us Rockmart has the talent to slow down the Irwin express. But our head tells us Irwin County is waiting to ambush the Jackets. Irwin by 2.

The Skinny

The Lincoln County Red Devils avenged one of their losses last season and recorded their first shutout in the process when they beat Emmanuel County Institute back on September 1st. The Red Devils were off last week and will now be looking to avenge another one of last season’s defeats. In their two victories this year, they have run the ball 69 times and thrown only 9. Lincoln County is averaging 186.3 yards per game rushing and 116.5 yards per game passing.Running back Semaj Jenkins and quarterback Mehki Wade lead the Devils in rushing team with 320 yards and 3-TDs. Wade has also thrown for 199 yards and a touchdown and is completing 71% of his passes.

The Commerce Tigers are also coming off of a bye week and will try to get back on track this week after suffering their first defeat of the season. Similar to Lincoln County, the Tigers will do most of their damage with the rushing attack. Keep your eye on speedy backs Jaiden Daniels and Jacari Huff as they both showcase game breaking speed. Meanwhile Tysean Wiggins is a throwback bruising fullback that is rarely tackled by one defender. The Tigers are averaging 32.6 points per game while allowing 21.

This might be one of the faster games played in the state this weekend as both teams will likely use the ground game primarily. We believe Lincoln County will keep this game close, but something tells us Wiggins has a big night. Commerce steals one on the road. Tigers by 3.

The Skinny

The Lumpkin County Indians are off to another torrid start and have won three straight games to open the season. (It’s only the 7th time in school history they’ve started 3-0.) Mason Sullens has been the workhorse for the Indians with 609 yards and 9-TDs. Cal Faulkner has made the transition from receiver to quarterback and is completed 70% of his passes with 4-TDs and zero interceptions. The Indians are averaging 42 points per game while the defense is allowing just 11.3 per game. 

The Hart County Bulldogs have dropped two out of their first three games this season and the road doesn’t get easier this week as they visit Dahlonega. The offense has done well to average 17.3 points per game considering the competition they’ve faced thus far. We have to expect the Bulldogs will be looking to get Nori Moore going early and often to keep the explosive Lumpkin offense on the sidelines. Defensively, the Bulldogs are allowing 28.6 points per game. 

This is the first meeting between these two teams. Lumpkin seems to have hit their stride offensively already. We believe that gives them an edge even if Moore and the Bulldogs have a big day offensively. We like Lumpkin by 10. 

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