Eight Greats Around the State – Part II

Posted on August 16, 2023 by admin

Georgia High School Football Previews

School is back in. The days are slowly getting shorter and we approach the midpoint of August. That can only mean one thing…High School Football is back in the state of Georgia! Welcome to our weekly segment of our high school football previews that we like to call Eight Greats Around the State; where we preview 8 intriguing matchups across the state.

First up, the Rome Wolves host the Cass Colonels in the nightcap of the Corky Kell Classic at Barron Stadium. The Wolves and Reece Fountain look primed for another deep run in the state playoffs. Can the up and coming Cass Colonels shock the state and upset the perennial Northwest Georgia power? Staying in Northwest Georgia, we next go to the battle of Polk County as Cedartown will host rival Rockmart on a Thursday night. Cedertown lost a lot of talent to graduation from a state finalist team, but we wouldn’t call this a rebuilding year. Meanwhile, Rockmart and quarterback J.D. Davis will look to exact a measure of revenge and stake their claim as Polk County champs.

Down in South Georgia, Lee County will host middle Georgia power Warner Robins. Lee has plenty of experience back from a team that had a down season by their standards. Meanwhile Warner Robins and new head coach Shane Sams will look to get the Demons back to the state finals for a fourth straight season. Will Chase Reese and the Robins offense figure out how to score enough points on Lee’s vaunted defense? Finally, on a Saturday tilt, the Walton Raiders will play the Grayson Rams in the night cap of the Corky Kell Classic. Walton’s offense looks poised to put up big numbers this season behind Jeremy Hecklinski. But don’t forget about Grayson quarterback Jeff Davis as he seems primed for a big senior season for the Rams. Which standout quarterback will win this early season prime time matchup?

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

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

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

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

The Skinny

The Rome Wolves return plenty of fire power from a team that advanced to the semifinals last season. Reece Fountain returns for his senior season after throwing for 3,028 yards and 28-TDs. Fountain will have plenty of talent at receiver including D.K. Daniel who garnered the region POY award last season. Expect for Nic Hester and Toot Stallings to be primary targets for Fountain. The Wolves will have a stable of backs led by Chance Arthur and Javarius McDearmont. For all of Rome’s offensive prowess, their defense is just as good. While they will be without standouts like  Stephylon Green and Alto Moore, don’t expect too much of a fall off. Justin Terrell and Trey Adams anchor the defensive line for a team that allowed just 10.6 points per game last season. 

The Cass Colonels have steadily improved each year under head coach Steve Gates. Last year, they advanced to the second round of the state playoffs for the first time since 1983. This might be one of the Colonels more talented teams across the board. The versatile Devin Henderson will likely see action on both sides of the field. Sophomore quarterback Brodie McWhorter has seen his stock rise in the offseason and with weapons like Henderson and Sacovie White. We believe a special season could be in store for Cass. Cass also returns to talented young offensive linemen in Bear McWhorter and Kail Ellis. Meanwhile, Kaden Ellis is as disruptive as they come along the defensive line for Cass.

We like Cass and we beleive they have the talent to contend for a home playoff spot once region play comes around, Rome is a big step up in competition. We beleive Cass can keep it close for a half, but Rome is a little deeper. Wolves by 18.

The Skinny

The Cedartown Bulldogs lost a lot of their offense to graduation as their top 4 ball carriers and their quarterback have all finished their high school careers. Look for Demarcus Gardner to help fill the void in the backfield for Cedartown. Tae Harris is a big time defensive back who might also see some time on offense in the Bulldogs Wing-T alignment. All signs point to Drew Ledbetter to step into the starting role at quarterback for the Bulldogs. Meanwhile, the defense will feature the aforementioned Gardner, Harris and Tadji Neal in the secondary while Jakoby Diamond will anchor the defensive line. This is a Cedartown defense that allowed just 9.4 points per game a year ago. 

The Rockmart Yellow Jackets made a run to the quarterfinals before they fell to Fitzgerald in overtime last season. The Yellow Jackets welcome back starting quarterback J.D. Davis who completed 58% of his passes for 905 yards a year ago. While the Jackets lose most of their production on the ground last year, they do return bruising back Brent Washington who rushed for 471 yards and 10-TDs. Tristan Anderson is the team’s leading returning receiver with 8 receptions for 183 yards and a touchdown. 

Expect this game to have plenty of fireworks between Rockmart’s Davis and Washington. We believe they will help the game close, but Cedartown’s defense will be the difference. We like the Bulldogs by 5.

The Skinny

The Lee County Trojans will start their season looking to extend their playoff streak to eight straight seasons. All eyes will be on junior running back Ousmane Kromah who rushed for 1,504 yards and 20 TDs a year ago. Kromah is the physical back while Braxton Honer has shown the ability to be a good change of pace back with his speed and shiftiness. Quarterback Weston Bryan should have more command of the offense in his second year as a starter. Defensively standouts from a year ago for the Trojans include Jaydon Cory (50 total tackles), Temirez Williams (59 total tackles), Jase Angry (46 total tackles), Devin Collier (Georgia Southern commit) and Jacob White (41 total tackles).

The Warner Robins Demons started off 2022 slow and then reeled off 9 straight wins before falling in the state title game. The Demons will have a new head coach as the Shane Sams era begins in 2023. Warner Robins has made the state title game for the last three seasons. Quarterback Chase Reese will look to improve on his 1,517 yards and 17-TDs from a year ago. His primary targets include Isiah Canion and Cam Flowers. William “Trey” Gunnings should get the bulk of the carries in the Demons backfield. On the defense side of the ball, Isaiah Gibson will make things difficult on opposing offenses. The junior is the team’s sack leader fro a year ago and has picked up offers from schools such as USC and Auburn. 

This Trojans are generally tough at home and should be improved with the maturation of Bryan at quarterback and the steady Kromah in the backfield. The Demons however seem to have a little more star power at quarterback and receiver. We believe that will be the difference in a close matchup. Warner Robins by 2. 

The Skinny

The Walton Raiders will look to extend their state playoff streak to seven consecutive years as they travel to Atlanta to participate in the Corky Kell Classic. The Raider put up big numbers last season on offense, averaging 37.8 points per game. They will return their signal caller, Jeremy Hecklinski, who threw for 3,520 yards and 37-TDs. They also return all of their top receivers from a year ago including Cameron Loyd (50 receptions, 851 yards, 9-TDs), Wyatt Sonderman (42 receptions, 744 yards, 11-TDs) and tight end Hunter Teal (50 receptions, 970 yards, 4-TDs). Senior running back Makari Bodiford will look to build on his junior season when he rushed for 1,582 yards and 20-TDs. The Raiders will also welcome offensive lineman Daniel Calhoun who committed to Georgia earlier this summer. The physical offensive tackle should help ensure another 1,000 yard rushing season for Bodiford. 

The Grayson Rams will have a new head coach for the 2023 season as Santavious Bryant takes over. Coach Bryant will inherit an offense that averaged 31 points per game and returns their starting quarterback Jeff Davis who threw for 2,242 yards and 15-TDs last season. John Cineas and Kylan Fox are the teams top returning receivers while Dylan Elder and Amari Alston should get the bulk of the carries at running back. Defensively, the Rams will lean on lineman Nasir Smith and defensive backs Jaylen Bell and Myles Woods. They are key pieces from a defense that allowed 13.3 points per game last season. 

There is plenty of star power across the board in this game including a great quarterback battle between Hecklisnki of Walton and Davis of Grayson.  By our account, Walton is 27-31 against teams from Gwinnett County all time. We believe coach Bryant will have his Rams playing at a high level and should make a push for a region title. But on Saturday, we like the Raiders in a shootout. Walton by 3. 

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Eight Greats Around the State – Part I

Posted on August 16, 2023 by admin

Georgia High School Football Previews

School is back in. The days are slowly getting shorter as we approach the midpoint of August. That can only mean one thing…High School Football is back in the state of Georgia! Welcome to our weekly segment of our high school football previews that we like to call Eight Greats Around the State; where we preview 8 intriguing matchups across the state.

This week we start with a matchup of former region rivals as Calhoun travels to Roswell to take on Blessed Trinity. New head coach Ed Dudley and his Titans will have their hands full trying to contain the explosive Yellow Jackets and Caden Williams. Meanwhile over in Carrollton, the Trojans will host the Langston Hughes Panthers in a battle of the state’s top quarterbacks. Will Juju Lewis and Carrollton out-duel Prentiss “Air” Noland and the defending Class 6A Champs?

Down in Ocilla, the Irwin County Indians will host the Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes. Both teams will be replacing a lot of talent lost to graduation. Will Shane Marshall be able to run wild for Irwin County or will it be Diondre Paschal and his Canes teammates that will have success on Friday? Finally in Northeast Georgia, the Hart County Bulldogs will host the Elbert County Blue Devils. Will running back Nori Moore be enough to steady the young Hart County offense or will Jayvyn Hickman and the Blue Devils find success through the air?

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)

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

The Skinny

The Ed Dudley era begins this Friday night as the Blessed Trinity Titans host the Calhoun Yellow Jackets. The Titans return all region quarterback Brooks Goodman, who passed for 1,185 yards and 14-TDs last season. Expect for Zyon McKenzie and Bryce Lewis to be top targets for Goodman. The ground game lost most of its production to graduation, Kamernon Betts and Dylan Terrico could be players that the Titans look towards to pace the ground attack. The defense will be anchored by Adrian Forbes and Paul Harrington, while all-region selection Spencer Kramer will help lead the secondary. D.J. Jacobs will look to see his first high school action as the freshmen has already been turning heads at linebacker and defensive end. 

The Calhoun Yellow Jackets have an impressive 23 year streak of making the post season. During that time, Calhoun has won three state titles and most recently played for a state title in 2021. The Jackets offense returns pre-season All-State selection Trey Townsend (QB)  and Caden Williams (RB). Townsend loses some of his top targets from a year ago, but expect for tight end Emaree Winston and receiver Bryant Arnold to pick up the slack. Kristyane Gregory (DL) and Christian Smith  (LB) will lead the Jackets defensively. 

This should be a fun matchup, with two talented QBs. There will be a lot of pressure on the Titans defense to find a way to slow down Townsend and Williams. We like the home field advantage for the Titans, but the explosiveness and experience of Caden Williams could be the difference. Calhoun by 3. 

The Skinny

The Carrollton Trojans will start their 2023 campaign looking to get back to the state finals. They return a bevy of talent from their 2022 team including sophomore quarterback Julian “Juju” Lewis, who threw for 4,118 yard and 48 TDs. Lewis will return four of his top 6 receivers from a year ago including Caleb Odom, Jordan White and the versatile Bryce Hicks. Hicks is also the teams top running back from a year ago. He will look to pick up where he left off last year after rushing for over 1,600 yards with 22-TDs. Defensively, Carrollton will be led by linebackers Brody Bradburn, Montreze Smith and Jacob Levy.

The Langston Hughes Panthers fresh off their state championship run from a year ago will waste no time jumping in to the fire in 2023. The Panthers have a star quarterback of their own in Ohio State commit Prentiss “Air” Noland. The southpaw threw for 4,095 yards and 55-TDs last season. Noland will have a young receiving group this season as four of his top five targets from a year ago have graduated. Justus Savage will return in the backfield after rushing for over 1,000 yards a year ago. Ameir Glenn returns to lead the defense that allowed 11.8 points per game a year ago.

This game features some of the best talent in the state. Expect for Hughes to be game to stay with the Trojans for the first three quarters. We believe Carrollton’s depth at receiver will be too much for Hughes in the end. We like the Carrollton by 8.

The Skinny

Irwin County is in the midst of a historic run in which they have reached the semifinals in 9 out of the last 10 seasons. This year, the Indians will have to replace some standouts as they say goodbye to players like two way star Demarkus Lundy and quarterback Cody Soliday. The Indians do return experience in the backfield in Shane Marshall. The rising junior rushed for 845 yards and 14-TDs a year ago. Having Marshall’s experience should take some of the pressure off of first year starter Luke Snyder at quarterback. Defensively, the Irwin welcomes back All-State lineman Michael Joiner who will spearhead a unit that allowed only 11 points per game last season.

Fitzgerald is in the midst of an impressive run themselves, as they made the state playoffs for the 23rd consecutive season last year. During that stretch the Purple Hurricanes have won one state title and appeared in the finals six times, included three appearances in the last three years. The Canes return Diondre Paschal in the backfield and we expect the bruising back to pick up where he left off last season. Pashcal will have some familiar faces to run behind as Christian Riggins and Gabe Pearce return to anchor the line of scrimmage. 

We expect for both teams to try to impose their will along the line of scrimmage. Irwin will keep this one close at home, but we like Paschal and the Canes on the road by 6. 

The Skinny

The Hart County Bulldogs will look to get back to the playoffs after missing out last season. Offensively, they will lean pre-season all-state selection and senior running back Nori Moore who tallied over 1,800 yards from scrimmage last season. Moore is an explosive back with big play potential every time he touches the ball. The Bulldogs will be breaking in a new quarterback as Jashon Gaines moves over from receiver to take over the quarterbacking duties. Defensively, the Bulldogs will look to All-Region performers Trevion Jones and Trey Fouch to set the table for a defense that allowed 21 points per game a year ago.

The Elbert county Blue Devils will look to build on their success from last season. The Bulldogs will have the luxury of returning All-Region quarterback Jayvyn Hickman, who threw for over 1,700 yards ain 2022. He will have two of his top targets from a year ago returning in Ty’Rikkis Jones (36 receptions, 436 yards, 4-TDs) and Eli Harris (21 receptions, 345 yards, 2-TDs). Jacarri Barnett looks to be the heir apparent at running back to replace Qua Moss. 

Both of these teams return plenty of star power to light up the scoreboard all season long. Our biggest question for Hart County is will Moore be able to carry the offense until Gains can grow into the quarterback spot. We believe this game will be close again, but we like Elbert on the road in a mild upset. Blue Devils by 2.

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GHSA Football Rankings – Week 1

Posted on August 13, 2023 by admin

We are less than a week away from the start of the regular season. Today, we release our GHSA Top-10 Football Poll in each classification. Polls are fun and can provide for spirited and healthy conversations and debates. We welcome any and all poll feedback.

AAAAAAA

AAAAAA

AAAAA

AAAA

AAA

AA

A-D1

A-D2

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2022 GHSA A Division-I Playoff Previews

Posted on November 11, 2022 by admin

Class A Division I Playoffs at a Glance

Region Champions: Irwin County, Swainsboro, Metter, Lamar County, Prince Avenue Christian. St. Francis, Darlington, Rabun County

Best First Round Matchup: Trion vs Commerce 

Round 1 Upset Alert: Metter (vs.Temple)

Toughest Road to the Title for a Region Champ: Metter

Our Final Four Picks: Irwin County; Rabun County; Prince Avenue Christian; Brooks County

The Dark Horse: Commerce

Our State Champion: Prince Avenue Christian

This is looks like one of the deepest Class A playoff brackets that we have seen in a long while. Defending Class A Public Champion Brooks County will have their work cut out for them from the start. If the Trojans get past Bleckley County in the first round, a very explosive Lamar County team should be waiting for them. And then there is the potential to face a Commerce team that is playing really good ball with a stable of talented running backs. Of course we expect for Irwin County will certainly be a threat to win the title. They have been there and done that recently, with regards to wining in the playoffs. We like Irwin County and their ability to run the ball and play lights out defense.

Rabun County drops down to Class A DI this season and will look to finally get ofer the hump and make it into the finals for the first time in school history. We expect the Swainsboro Tigers to also have something to say about that as they seem primed to make a serious run this year under the guidance of Coach Scott Roberts. If the brackets fall the way that we believe, we could see a Swainsboro-Rabun quarterfinal game. 

If we could be anywhere in the state this week for a Class A D-1 game, we’d likely be at Sam R. McCain stadium to watch the Trion-Commerce game. Trion has not Beaton Commerce in seven tries. We believe the Prince Avenue with their pass-happy offense, led by quarterback Aaron Philo will hoist the crown in Atlanta come mid December.  

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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2022 GHSA 2A Playoff Previews

Posted on November 10, 2022 by admin

Class AA Playoffs at a Glance

Region Champions: Fitzgerald, Spencer, Appling County, Thomson, Callaway, South Atlanta, Rockmart, Fellowship Christian

Best First Round Matchup: Worth County vs Northeast (Macon)

Round 1 Upset Alert: Fellowship Christian

Toughest Road to the Title for a Region Champ: Spencer

Our Final Four Picks: Rockmart; Pierce County; South Atlanta; Appling County

The Dark Horse: Cook

Our State Champion: South Atlanta

The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes are the defending Class AA champions and will look to get back to the finals to hoist the trophy for only the third time in school history. It won’t be any easy task as there are a few perennial powers that were reclassified into Class AA. That should make this tournament just as challenging to win, if not more as in previous seasons. Fellowship Christian might have the toughest first round draw for a No. 1 seed facing a North Murray team that can really light up the scoreboard. Some interesting potential second round mathups include Thomson vs Cook; Appling County vs. Northeast and ELCA vs Fellowship Christian. We wouldn’t be surprised to see Fitzgerald back in the final four, but we have them getting beat by Rockmart in the quarterfinals. Other teams that certainly have the pedigree to make a run at a state title include, Callaway, Pierce County, Appling County and Northeast. We are going with South Atlanta as the State Champ on the strength of their running game and Key’Juan Brown. 

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

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 Putnam County War Eagles have now made it into the post season for the fourth consecutive year. Putnam County is 4-1 in their last five games, with their only loss during that stretch coming at the hands of Thomson, the region champion. The War Eagles have defeated four playoff bound teams this season. They are averaging 28.1 points per game on offense and allowing 11.9 points per game. They are a run first team, averaging 201 yards per game on the ground and 78.8 yards per game through the air. It’s been the duo of Tamarion Peters, (877 yards, 14-TDs) and Rashod Daniel, (471 yards, 5-TDs) that has led Putnam County on offense. Darrell Bland Jr. does lead the team in receiving with 24 receptions for 358 yards and 2-TDs. Jalon Kilgore has also had an impact on both sides of the ball this season for Putnam as he leads the team in total tackles (56), is tied for the team lead with 2 interceptions and is also third on the team in rushing and second in receiving.

The Toombs County Bulldogs are back in the post season for the sixth time in seven years. The Bulldogs have won two of their last five games entering into the playoffs with both wins coming in the las two weeks. They have defeated three playoff bound teams this season and are averaging 27.5 points per game and allowing 14.6. Toombs averages 195.3 rushing yards per game and 133.6 passing yards. Tank Morris, (633 yards, 12-TDs) and Tamarien McArthur, (629 yards, 6-TDs) have led the team in rushing  this season. The Bulldogs throw the ball about 15 times per game. When they do go to the air, expect for Lagonza Hayward to be a primary target as he leads the team in receiving with 34 catches for 546 yards and 6-TDs. 

As you can see in the stats, both of these teams will look to establish their respective ground game this week. Both teams will also use running back by committee. We believe Toombs County is battle tested in region play and should certainly be around in the 4th quarter. However, we like Putnam County at home by 2 on Friday. 

The Skinny

The Northeast Macon Raiders have qualified for the post season for the third straight year and for the fourth time in the past five years. The Raiders are winners of four out of their last five games. Their three losses have come by a combined 4 points. They are averaging 40.5 points per game on offense and are heavily reliant on the ground game. The have racked up 2,783 rushing yards as a team this season with Nick Woodford getting the bulk of the carries. Woodford has rushed for 2,262 yards and 34-TDs. Johnny Williams helps anchor the offensive line that has paved the way for Woodford and the Raiders this season. Northeast is allowing 14.1 points per game on defense.

The Worth County Rams are back into the playoffs for the first time since 2016. The Rams started the season red hot winning their first six games, but have gone 2-2 since then to close out the season. The Rams have defeated five playoff bound teams this year. Worth is averaging 206.5 yards per game through the air and 142.9 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Chip Cooper has thrown for 2,050 yards and 19-TDs. His top receiver has been Parker Weaver, (52 receptions, 605 yards, 7-TDs) and D’ontae Fulton, (51 receptions, 724 yards, 8-TDs).The aforementioned Cooper is second on the team in rushing with 599 yards and 12-TDs while frehsman Kaden Chester leads the team in rushing with 736 yards and 8-TDs. 

The biggest question will be whether Worth County will be able to slow down the Northeast ground attack. This is a big offensive line for Northeast and we just don’t know if Worth will be able to scheme against them. We like the Raiders by 8.

The Skinny

The Fellowship Christian Paladins were reclassified up to Class AA this past offseason, but the jump in classification did not stop the string of seven consecutive post season appearances. The Paladins also won their fourth consecutive region title. Fellowship Christian got off to a slow start this season, losing three of their first five games, but they responded in the second half of the season with five straight victories to close out the regular season. They have defeated five playoff teams this season. The Paladins offense is averaging 28.3 yards per game and is led by quarterback Caleb McMickle and running back Conrad Givers. The defense is led by linebacker Kyle Elphick and is allowing 15.7 points per game.

The North Murray Mountaineers have also qualified for the post season for the seventh consecutive season. The Mountaineers have won three of their last five games entering the post season and have defeated two playoff teams this season. Going into last week, quarterback Seth Griffin was the the leading passer in Class AA with 2,411 yards through the air. His two top receivers are Judson Petty (894 receiving yards through 9 games) and Jadyn Rice, (915 receiving yards through 9 games.) The Mountaineers can surely light up the scoreboard, averaging 41.4 points per game, but their defense has also given up a healthy 35.7 points per game. 

This game has the makings of a shootout. Fellowship Christian should be on guard against the high scoring Mountaineers. We believe the Fellowship Christian defense will find a way to get a stop when it matters most in this game. Fellowship by a touchdown.

The Skinny

The Cook Hornets have not missed the post season in the 21st century. The Hornets are winners of three of their last five games as they enter the playoffs. They’ve defeated five playoff teams this season. Cook is averaging 33 points per game and allowing 25.5 points per game. Through eight games the offense is averaging 118.8 yards per game through the air and 101.1 yards per game on the ground. Offensively, Drew Folsom and Jatorian Kennedy have helped to pace the Hornets. 

The Ace Charter Gryphons are back in the playoffs for the second straight season. This has by far been the best season for Ace in their short five year history of football. Ace Charter closed out the season with a loss to region champion Spencer, but prior to that, they had reeled off four straight wins.The Gryphons are averaging 134.3 yards per game through the air and 208.4 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Kaleb Scarbary has thrown for 1,291 yards and 17-TDs. His top receivers have been Bryce Whitley (31 receptions, 625 yards, 8-TDs) and Sam Whitley (25 receptions, 507 yards, 7-TDs.) Running back Aaron Davis leads the team in rushing with 1,373 yards and 17-TDs.

The Gryphons have put up some big numbers offensively, but we believe the Hornets might be a step up in competition for them this week. We like Cook at home by 12.

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2022 GHSA 3A Playoff Previews

Posted on November 10, 2022 by admin

Class AAA Playoffs at a Glance

Region Champions: Thomasville, Peach County, Calvary Day, Harlem, Cedar Grove, Adairsville, Dawson County, Stephens County

Best First Round Matchup: Dawson County vs. Monroe-Area

Round 1 Upset Alert (#1 Seeds): Dawson County; Harlem

Toughest Road to the Title for a Region Champ: Calvary Day

Our Final Four Picks: Carver-ATL; Sandy Creek; Cedar Grove; Oconee County

The Dark Horse: Carver-Columbus

Our State Champion: Cedar Grove

The Cedar Grove Saints are a heavy favorite to win Class AAA once again. They have played some of the top competition regardless of classification this season. And while we believe they should make it to the title game. There are certainly some potential stumbling blocks along the way. The Calvary Day Cavaliers could be one of those stumbling blocks as they have one of the top quarterbacks in the classification in Jake Merklinger. Let’s not forget about Region 8, tucked away primarily in the Northeast corner of the state. All four teams in Region 8 are battled tested, especially region champ Stephens County. There is potential for a Stephens vs Peach County matchup in the quarterfinals. And then there is traditional power Thomasville, who started slow, but finished the season as region champs. They could certainly be primed for a final four run. And last but not least, the Dawosn County Tigers continue to find their way into the post season. If they can get past Monroe Area in the first round, we believe they could find themselves still alive come December.  

In spite all of the thought process, we still believe that Region 5 will have three teams advance to the semifinals. And just like most other prognosticators, we believe that Cedar Grove will win the AAA state title.

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

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 Dawson County Tigers have qualified for the state tournament for the eighth straight season. During his tenure at Dawson County, Coach Sid Maxwell has never missed the postseason. Dawson County has won their last six games entering the playoffs and have defeated three teams that have qualified for post season play. The Tigers are averaging 27.4 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.9. They average 180.2 yards per game on the ground and 109.3 yards per game through the air. Elijah Smith and Kade Moledor lead the Tigers in rushing with a combined 1,202 yards and 10-TDs. Moledor also leads the team in total tackles while Cade Adams leads the defense with 10-sacks. 

Monroe-Area has played one of the more challenging schedules in Class 3-A. They are in the post season for the seventh straight year. The Purple Hurricanes have played 8 teams that qualified for the playoffs. They have defeated three of those teams. The Canes have won three out of their last five games entering the post season. Offensively they are averaging 120.5 yards per game through the air and 226.7 yards per game on the ground. Dual threat quarterback Jeremiah Anderson leads the team in passing (1,205 yards, 7-TDs) and has rushed for a team leading 711 yards and 8-TDs. Jahlun Flud is the leading receiver for Monroe Area with 32 catches for 450 yards and 3-TDs. 

Dawson County will need to be weary of this No. 4 seed. Monroe Area has played a tough schedule that should prepare them well for this week. Expect for Monroe Area to make this game very interesting. We like Dawson, but it should be nip and tuck. Tigers by 2.

The Skinny

The Lumpkin County Indians are experiencing one of their best seasons in recent memory. The Indians have tied the school records for wins and won the most games since 1976. Lumpkin County has defeated three playoff teams this season and are winners of three of their last five games. The Lumpkin offense is averaging 157.4 yards per game through the air and 199.3 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Cooper Scott has thrown for 1,480 yards, rushed for 555 yards and accounted for 23 total TDs. Running back Mason Sullens leads the team in rushing with 1,074 yards and 17-TDs. Cal Falkner leads the team in receiving (42 receptions, 645 yards, 9-TDs and also leads the secondary with 4 interceptions.

The Oconee County Warriors are back into the postseason for the 9th straight season. The Warriors have defeated four playoff teams on the year. Oconee County is the 3-seed in their region based on a coin flip as the tiebreaker for Region 8. They closed the season winning three of their last five games. Oconee County is averaging 25.9 points per game and allowing 15.6. They have not lost s game by more than 7 points this season. Expect for Whit Weeks to contribute on both sides of the ball this week, just as he had done during the regular season.

Lumpkin County is certainly in uncharted territory this season making it into the post season, while Oconee County has the playoff pedigree over the last few seasons. We expect for Lumpkin coach Heath Webb to come up with a great game plan to derail Oconee County. However, we believe the Warriors are a little more talented at the skill positions. Oconee by 9.

The Skinny

The Mary Persons Bulldogs have reached the postseason for the second straight season. It’s also the 11th time in 12 years that the Bulldogs have advanced to the playoffs. Mary Persons has defeated three playoff bound teams this seaosn. The Bulldogs offense is averaging 154.5 yards per game through the air and 223 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Logan Hickman has thrown for 1,545 yards and 20-TDs. Meanwhile, running back Duke Watson has rushed for 1,594 yards and 14-TDs and is averaging 8.7 yards per carry. Kham Little is the leading receiver for the Bulldogs with 28 receptions for 542 yards and 7-TDs. 

The Dougherty Trojans are back in the playoffs for the second straight season. Dougherty started the season red-hot, winning their first eight games, but have faltered down the stretch and dropped their last two games. The Trojans have defeated three playoff bound teams this season. They are averaging 30.2 points per game and allowing 19.6 points per game. Dougherty has a relatively balanced attack. Quarterback Kameron Davis is a dual threat quarterback who leads the Trojans in passing and rushing this season. 

Dougherty ran into to two pretty stout ball clubs the last two weeks of the season. They are still a pretty dangerous football team. Will Mary Persons be able to run the ball successfully this week? We don’t believe so. We like Dougherty by 6.

The Skinny

The Stephens County Indians won their first region title since 2007. This is the second straight year they have qualified for the playoffs. Stephens County had won seven straight games before getting picked off last week by Hebron Christian. They are averaging 30.2 yards per game and allowing 13.5. The Indians have a relatively balanced offense, averaging 170 yards per game through the air and 156.9 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Ben Stowe has thrown for 1,613 yards and 15-TDs. His top receivers have been Cam’ron Lacy, (39 receptions, 714 yards, 9-TDs) and Corey Richie (28 receptions, 418 yards, 2-TDs). Javin Gordon is the team’s leading rusher with 718 yards and 11-TDs. The Indians defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 41 times and intercepted 11 passes.

The Wesleyan Wolves qualified for the post-season for the 11th straight season. This was the first time since 2013 that the Wolves finished the regular season below .500. They have won three of their last five games and has defeated two playoff teams this season. The Wolves have gotten most of their offensive production through the air, averaging 215.2 yards per game passing and just 74.4 yards per game on the ground. Sophomore quarterback Ben Brown has thrown for 2,014 yards and 24-TDs. Jamie Tremble is the leading receiver for Wesleyan with 47 receptions for 808 yards and 10-TDs. The Wolves are averaging 23.3 points per game and allowing 21.5.

Wesleyan has played a challenging enough schedule and we don’t expect them to be intimidated by Stephens County this week. Unfortunately, we believe their inability to run the football might do them in. We like Stephens County by two touchdowns. 

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2022 GHSA 4A Playoff Previews

Posted on November 9, 2022 by admin

Class AAAA Playoffs at a Glance

Region Champions: Bainbridge; Perry; Benedictine; Troup; Stockbridge; Holy Innocents; Cedartown; North Oconee

Best First Round Matchup: LaGrange vs Burke County

Round 1 Upset Alert: Holy Innocents’; Benedictine

Toughest Road to the Title for a Region Champ: Perry

Our Final Four Picks: Cedartown; Perry; Stockbridge; Troup

The Dark Horse: Trinity Christian

Our State Champion: Cedartown

The Benedictine Cadets are the defending Class AAAA Champions, but they have their work cut out for them if they aim to repeat this season. They might have one of the toughest first round games of any Region Champion. There are some really good potential second round matchups including Perry vs the Trinity Christian/Wayne County winner. Also another great potential matchup is the LaGrange/Burke County winner versus Bainbridge, (if Bainbridge wins on Friday). There is really no easy path to the title. We like Cedartown to get to the finals this year and we also like Troup to join them. But will Troup bounce back from their loss last week at the hands of rival LaGrange? Other title contenders include North Oconee who have quietly put together a spectacular season, Perry, Stockbridge and Benedictine. We are looking forward to an exciting tournament for Class AAAA.

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

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 Holy Innocents Bears were realigned all the way from Class A-Private into Class AAAA this season but were able to earn their second consecutive region title and are also in the post-season for fifth straight season. The Bears are winners of four of their last five games. Holy Innocents is averaging 26.6 points per game while the defense is allowing 12.4 points per game. Holy Innocents has defeated five playoff teams this season. Expect for the Bears to continue to attempt to churn out yards on the ground this week as that has been the key to their success. Holy Innocents only attempts approximately five passes per game. If the Bears do decide to go to the air, expect for them to target Zach Jackson. 

The Hampton Hornets have qualified for the post season for the third time in four season and for only the third time in the schools 9 year history. Hampton enters the postseason winners of three out of their last four games. The Hornets are averaging 29.2 points per game while allowing 21.5. They have defeated two playoff teams this season. The Hornets are averaging 178 yards per game on the ground and 79.6 yards per game through the air. Running back Crishaun Kindle and quarterback Conner Tolley have combined to rush for 1,419 yards and 17-TDs to help pace the Hornets on offense. Cameron Goggins leads the team in receiving with 20 receptions for 423 yards and 5-TDs. The Hornets have intercepted 13 passes this season on defense with sophomore Lionel Mann leading the way with 4 picks. 

Holy Innocents cannot overlook this Hampton team. Both of these teams will lean heavily on the run. With that being said, we believe that Holy Innocents is better at running it than their opponent this week. That’s why we like the Bears. Holy Innocents by 11.

The Skinny

The Benedictine Cadets are the defending Class AAAA State Champions and are back int he post season for the 12th straight year. The Cadets have won three state titles during that stretch. Benedictine has won six consecutive games entering the post season. They are averaging 32.9 points per game and allowing just 9.1 points per game. During their six game win streak, they Cadets are averaging 33.5 points per game and allowing just 6 points per game. Benedictine has a relatively balanced offensive attack, averaging 187.4 yards per game through the air and 158.3 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Luke Kromenhoek has thrown for 1,874 yards and 21-TDs. Za’Quan Bryan and Thomas Blackshear have combined to catch 74 passes for 895 yards and 13-TDs. 

The Whitewater Wildcats are in the playoffs for the third straight season. Last season, the Wildcats made a run to the quarterfinals. They have defeated two playoff bound teams this season. Whitewater has won four of their last five games entering the post-season. Their two losses have come by a combined 13 points. Whitewater is averaging 36.1 points per game while the defense is allowing 16.7. Whitewater has relied heavily on the ground game, averaging 229 yards per game rushing while throwing for 82.8. It has been running back by committee for the Wildcats as Braxton Mueller, Xavier Clay-Turner and Logan Griffith have combined for 1,276 yards and 17-TDs. Defensively, look for Popo Aguirre and Tyler Glover to provide pressure on the Benedictine offense.

This might be one of the most challenging 1 vs 4 games across the state. We believe that the Wildcats can defeat the Cadets, but it will take a team effort running the ball to keep Benedictine’s offense on the sideline. We believe the road trip will take its toll on Whitewater. We like Benedictine by 8. 

The Skinny

The Wayne County Yellow Jackets are back into the post season after a one year hiatus. The Jackets have now made the postseason eleven out of the last twelve seasons. Wayne County has won four out of their last five games. They do most of their damage offensively on the ground, averaging 201.5 yards per game rushing while only throwing for 77.6 yards per game. They only attempt about 12 passes per game. Matthew Fuller has provided most of the offense on the ground with 1,322 yards and 16-TDs. While we know Wayne won’t throw it much, we must mention their leading receiver, Terrione Graves, who has caught 25 passes for 389 yards and 6-TDs. Wayne County is averaging 26 points per game while the defense is allowing 15.7.

The Trinity Christian Lions are back in the post season after winning the Class A-Private State Title last season. The Lions have made it to the post season in eleven consecutive seasons. (They’ve only been playing football since 2011.) Trinity Christian has also only been playing in the GHSA for only five seasons. Trinity Christian has defeated two playoff bound teams this season and are averaging 24.4 points per game while allowing 21.7. The Lions are winners of three of their last five games. From an offensive production stance, they are averaging 245.6 yards per game through the air and 130.1 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Henry Brodnax has thrown for 2,329 yards and 17-TDs. 

This is a game that could come down to defense. Particularly, can Wayne County take away the Trinity Christian air attack? We think they will slow the Lions down, but not enough to be victorious. We like Trinity Christian by 2 on the road. 

The Skinny

The LaGrange Grangers are back in the playoffs for the third consecutive season. LaGrange has also reeled off five consecutive victories including a big win over their county rival Troup last week to earn themselves a home playoff game. The Grangers two losses are by a combined 10 points. LaGrange has defeated four playoff bound teams and went 2-2 against Top-10 teams on the season. The Grangers are averaging 38.2 points per game on offense and allowing 20 points per game. 

The Burke County Bears are back in the playoffs for the 16th straight season. The Bears have won three of their last five games. They are averaging 30.1 points per game and allowing 17.7. Burke County has defeated six playoff bound teams. Offensively, they are averaging 158.6 yards per game through the air and 195.2 yards per game on the ground, Quarterback Marshall Flowers has thrown for 1,438 yards and 9-TDs. Charlie Dorsey leads the team in rushing with 845 yards and 7-TDs. Defensively, the Bears have intercepted 9 passes on the season.

LaGrange has an explosive offense and playing at home should help give them a boost. However, should we be concerned LaGrange may have a let down after the big win last week? We don’t think so. We like the Grangers to outlast the Bears. LaGrange by 8.

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2022 GHSA 5A Playoff Previews

Posted on November 9, 2022 by admin

Class AAAAA Playoffs at a Glance

Region Champions: Ware County; Dutchtown; Northside Columbus; Decatur; Creekside; Cambridge; Calhoun; Jefferson

Best First Round Matchup: Ware County vs Jones County

Round 1 Upset Alert: Decatur; Ware County

Toughest Road to the Title for a Region Champ: Cambridge 

Our Final Four Picks: Ware County; Jefferson; Creekside; Cambridge

The Dark Horse: Kell

Our State Champion Pick: Creekside

We believe that Class AAAAA might be the most wide open classification this season with a handful of teams with a legitimate shot at the title. The Defending 5A champ, Warner Robins, struggled early in the season, but has come on strong to close the season. Perhaps a team that no-one is talking about is the Cambridge Bears who won their first region title in school history with their only losses coming to Class 7A opponents. Of course there are the perennial powers that we believe can make a run, like Cartersville, Ware County, Coffee and Jefferson to name a few. But as we mentioned before, we just don’t know believe any one of these teams is a clear-cut favorite to win the title. We believe that makes for this being one of the more exciting brackets.

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

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 Loganville Red Devils are back in the playoffs for sixth time in eight years. They’ve also won nine games in the regular season for the first time since 2008. The Red Devils are winners of five out of their last six games and have defeated four playoff bound teams this season. Loganville is averaging 30.6 points per game behind and offense that has generated 220.9 yards per game on the ground and 123 yards per game through the air. Running back Solomon Leslie has been the bell-cow for the offense rushing for 1,382 yards and 15-TDs while quarterback Johnny Crowe has thrown for 1,203 yards and 16-TDs. Defensively, Loganville is allowing 16.4 points per game and has intercepted 13 passes this season. 

The Dalton Catamounts are back in the playoffs after a two year hiatus. Dalton has won three out of their last five games, but did drop the last two regular season games. They are averaging 29.4 points per game while allowing 31 points per game. The Cats have defeated two playoff teams. Offensively, Tyson Greenwade is the big offensive threat for Dalton. Greenwade has rushed for 1,839 yards and is averaging 8.7 yards per carry. Dalton has won three of their five road games this season.

Loganville will have their hands full trying to slow down Dalton’s Greenwade, but the have the luxury of playing at home. We expect for the Cats to have trouble slowing down Solomon Leslie this week. We like the Loganville Red Devils by 8.

The Skinny

After getting off to a slow start going 1-4 to open the season, the Decatur Bulldogs have reeled off five straight victories to claim their first region title since 2004. Decatur is in the post season for the fourth consecutive year. The Bulldogs are averaging 32.5 points per game and allowing 27.4. Through 9 games, Decatur is averaging 268.7 yards per game through the air and 143.7 yards per game on the ground. Senior quarterback Harrison Hannah has thrown for 2,267 yards and 18-TDs. His top receivers this season have been Kenric Lanier and Kedric Lackey who have combined to catch 79 passes for 1,503 yards and 13-TDs. The Bulldogs have sacked opposing quarterbacks 23 times this season. 

The Harris County Tigers have made their way back into the post-season for the fourth consecutive year. It has been a battle of fits and starts for the Tigers as they were only able to win two games this season, but that was enough to qualify them for the playoffs. Harris County is averaging 13 points per game and allowing 22.3. They have defeated one other team that qualified for the post season. The Tigers are averaging 156.1 yards per game on the ground and just 59.1 yards per game through the air. They only attempt about 6 passes per game. Running back Miguel Sevilla is tops on the team in rushing with 736 yards and 2-TDs. 

Decatur certainly is the hot team coming in this week with their five game win streak, but something tells us they need to be weary of this Harris County team. Expect for Decatur to stuff Harris County’s run game to force them to throw the ball. We believe this one is a little closer than some might think, but we do like Decatur to pull away late. Bulldogs by 10.

The Skinny

The Ware County Gators return to the post season for the 21st consecutive season. The Gators went through the regular season undefeated for the first time since 2014. They’ve defeated six playoff bound teams this season, including a pair of region champs. Ware is averaging 35.6 points per game and allowing just a touchdown per game. The Gators have held their last five opponents to a total of just 27 points. They have a balanced attack on offense, averaging 155.2 yards per game through the air and 159 yards per game on the ground. Dae-Jeaun Dennis and R.J. Boyd have combined to rush for 1,228 yards and 15-TDs to lead the way for the Gators ground game. Quarterback Nikao Smith has thrown for 1,750 yards and 19-TDs. 

The Jones County Greyhounds return to the postseason for the 9th straight season. They have won four of their last six coming into the playoffs with wins over three playoff teams. The Greyhounds have some impressive wins on their resume this season including victories over Class 6A Northside Warner Robins and a victory over region champ Dutchtown. They are averaging 28.2 points per game while allowing 21.4. Offensively, Dutchtown is averaging 202.1 yards per game through the air and 136.9 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Judd Anderson has passed for 1,537 yards and 13-TDs. Zion Ragans (40 receptions, 513 yards, 3-TDs) and Geo Wade (39 receptions, 495 yards, 2-TDs) are the team’s top receivers. 

Jones County has advanced past the first round for the three previous seasons. However this Ware County team will be one of the tougher first round opponents all season. If there is a team, that could knock off Ware, it could be the Greyhounds. They will have to take care of the ball if they plan to pull the upset as that has been a bugaboo for them. We like the Gators at home, but  not by much. Ware County by 5.

The Skinny

The Chamblee Bulldogs will host a home playoff game for the first time since November 30, 2007. The Bulldogs jumped back into a region schedule this season and have gone 7-2 this season. They have won four out of their last five games as they enter the playoffs, and have defeated three playoff teams this season. Chamblee averages 39.3 points per game on offense, churning out 195.6 yards per game through the air and 152 yards per game on the ground, (through the first eight games). Offensively they are led by quarterback Fabian Walker who has thrown for 1,563 yards and 18-TDs through 8 games. His top receivers are Jordan Thornton, Levi Bradham and Tristian Sizemore. Defensively, Chamblee is allowing 16.1 points per game and has sacked opposing quarterbacks 18 times this season.

The McIntosh Chiefs are back into the playoffs for the first time since 2016. The Chiefs have won four of their last six as they enter the playoffs. They are averaging 27.3 points per game, but allowing 32.1. They have defeated three playoff bound teams this season. Offensively, McIntosh is generating 287.1 yards through the air and 192.7 yards on the ground per game. Quarterback Tate Morris has thrown for 2,871 yards and 22-TDs. Morris also leads the team in rushing with 939 yards and 3 rushing TDs.  Marcus Malone joins Morris in the backfield and has rushed for 787 yards and 11 TDs. Malone has also caught 43 passes out of the backfield for 719 yards and 7-TDs while Tyler Elwell leads the Chiefs in receiving with 45 receptions for 800 yards and 4-TDs. 

McIntosh has proven they can really throw the ball all over the yard, but the question in this one is whether or not they will be able to put pressure on Chamblee’s Fabian Walker to disrupt their passing attack. We expect this to be a high scoring game, but we like the Bulldogs at home by a touchdown. 

Posted in 2022 5A Playoffs, 2022 Playoffs | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

2022 GHSA 6A Playoff Previews

Posted on November 9, 2022 by admin

Class AAAAAA Playoffs at a Glance

Region Champions: Thomas County Central, Brunswick, Woodward Academy, Marist, Langston Hughes, Rome, Roswell, Gainesville

Best First Round Matchup: Brunswick vs Houston County; Douglas vs County Allatoona

Round 1 Upset Alert: (For Region Champions): Brunswick

Toughest Road to the Title for a Region Champ: Woodward Academy

Our Final Four Picks: Thomas County Central, Gainesville, Langston Hughes, Rome

The Dark Horse: Alpharetta

Our State Champion Pick: Langston Hughes

The Langston Hughes Panthers seem to be the odds on favorite to win the Class AAAAAA State Title. But there are plenty of teams that have the talent to hoist the trophy come mid December. Perhaps the biggest story in this Classification this season is the Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets. After winning no more than five games in the previous five seasons, they jump up to Class 6A from Class 4A and win the region title and go undefeated in the regular season for the first time since 2007.

The Gainesville Red Elephants are another team that has had a resurgence. After winning no more than six games the last six season, the Red Elephants also reeled off an undefeated season, their first since 2009. Some potential interesting second round matchups include Langston Hughes vs Blessed Trinity; Woodward Academy vs Lee County; and South Paulding vs Gainesville.

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

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 South Paulding Spartans enter the playoffs winners of six of their last seven games. This is the 3rd playoff appearance in four years for South Paulding and the second straight year coach Eric Robinson has led the Spartans into the post season. They have defeated three playoff teams this season and are averaging 37 points per game. The Spartans defense is allowing 30.6 points per game. South Paulding boasts one of the top running backs in the state in Jamarion Wilcox. Through the first 9 games, Wilcox had rushed for 1,805 yards and 24-TDs. As a team, South Paulding has averaged 134 yards per game through the air and 245.4 yards per game on the ground. Wilcox has the benefit of running behind two Madden Sanker and Isaac Keene who have helped paved the way for the teams combined 2,209 rushing yards in the first 9 games.

The Sequoyah Chiefs are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2018. The 2018 appearance matched their deepest playoff run in school history, (the quarterfinals). The Chiefs have defeated two teams bound for the playoffs this season. They are averaging 16.6 points per game and their defense is allowing 21.6. Sequoyah is 3-2 in region play which encompasses their last 5 games. In both losses, the Chiefs were shut out. The Chiefs offense is predicated around the ground game. Through the first eight games, Sequoyah is averaging 118.3 yards per game on the ground against just 68.8 yards per game through the air. They only throws the ball on average of 9 times a game. 

The Chiefs defense has been pretty darn good late in the season, save for the Rome game. They will need a big night again this week as they try to shut down the leading rusher in Class 6-A. The biggest question is whether or not Sequoyah can score enough points this week. We believe the Chiefs can keep this one interesting, but we believe South Paulding has too much on offense. Spartans by 10.

The Skinny

The Allatoona Buccaneers season seemed to be in peril after the first two weeks of their region schedule. Yet, the Bucs have righted the ship, winning their last four games of the season. This is the 13th consecutive season Allatoona has advanced to the post season; all under the direction of head coach Gary Varner. The Bucs are averaging 21.7 points per game while allowing 18.2. Allatoona has used a combination of an impressive ground attack combined with a stifling defense. The Bucs are averaging 180.9 yards per game on the ground and 74 yards per game through the air. Jayden Ponder has rushed for 1,267 yards and 8-TDs. The defense has shutout their last two opponents and even scored twice on defense last week. 

The Douglas County Tigers are in the post season for the fifth time in six years under coach Johnny White. The Tigers enter the playoffs wining four of their last five games. Douglas County has defeated three playoff teams this season. They are averaging 30.5 points per game and allowing 22.2 points per game. The Tigers are averaging 237.2 yards per game through the air and 154.9 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Sire Hardaway has thrown for 1,944 yards and 13-TDs. Duece Alexander, Monte Gooden and James Johnson lead the team in receiving. The Tigers have intercepted 22 passes on defense. 

This game features two teams who have contrasting styles on offense. Douglas county will need to find a way to bottle up Jayden Ponder and force Allatoona to pass the ball. On the other side of the ball, we aren’t sure Douglas County has faced a defense as tough as Allatoona’s since the faced Langston Hughes. We like the Bucs defense at home to carry them this week. Allatoona by 4.

The Skinny

Langston Hughes is in the post season for the third straight season. The Panthers have gone unscathed this season as they’ve averaged 53.3 points per game while the defense is allowing 9.6 points per game. Hughes has defeated six playoff teams this season. The Panthers are averaging 274.5 yards per game through the air and 224.8 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Prentiss “Air” Noland has thrown for 2,745 yards and 37-TDs. Four different receivers have caught 20 passes or more on the year. Justus Savage and Jekail Middlebrook have combined to rush for 1,617 yards and 22 TDs. The defense has sacked opposing quarterbacks 25 times and intercepted 10 passes. 

The River Ridge Knights are in the postseason for the third time in school history and for the second time in three years. The Knights have won two out of their last five games and were shutout in their last outing. River Ridge averages 24.5 points per game and are allowing 22.7 points per game. Through the first 9 games, River Ridge is averaging 178.6 yards per game through the air and 136.3 yards per game rushing through 9 games. Quarterback Ethan Spector has thrown for 1,467 yards and 11-TDs in those 9 games, while Jackson Head leads the team in receiving with 39 receptions for 453 yards and 5-TDs. 

River Ridge seems to be facing mission impossible. We wonder how the Knights can find a way to stick around. Langston Hughes has not really been challenged this season, so we’d like to see how they respond in a close game. River Ridge would really need to have success running the ball and forcing a few turnovers. This just seems like too tall of a task this week. We like Langston Hughes by four touchdown. 

The Skinny

The Alpharetta Raiders got hot at the right time, winning five of their last six games. The Raiders are in the post-season for the seventh straight season and for the 12th time in 13 seasons. They will be looking to get out of the first round for the first time since 2017. Alpharetta has defeated four playoff teams this season. The Raiders have been putting up some impressive offensive numbers, averaging 310.6 yards per game through the air and 120.6 yards per game on the ground. Alpharetta is averaging 39 points per game and allowing 24.4. Quarterback Ben Guthrie has thrown for 2,905 yards and 35-TDs. Four separate Raider receivers have caught at least 30 passes this season.

The Shiloh Generals have won four of their last six games entering the playoffs. Speaking of the playoffs, the Generals are making their third appearance in the last four years all under Coach Tino Ierulli. Shiloh has defeated one playoff team this season. They are averaging 30.4 points per game and allowing 18.5. Offensively, Shiloh is averaging 196.2 yards per game through the air and 148.3 yards per game on the ground through 9 games. In that same 9 game period, Jeremiah Harden has thrown for 1,766 yards and 21-TDs. Myles Smith and Nazir Griffin are top targets for Harden, as the duo has combined for 82 receptions, 952 yards and 11-TDs. The Generals secondary has intercepted 10 passes on the season. 

Both of these teams are looking to get out of the first round for the first time in a few seasons. Alpharetta’s Guthrie led offense has shown an ability to really light up the scoreboard. We know that Alpharetta will challenge the Shiloh secondary. How will Shiloh respond and disrupt the passing game?We believe Alpharetta has the edge here in quarterback play. We like the Raiders by 9. 

Posted in 2022 6A Playoffs | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

2022 GHSA 7A Playoff Previews

Posted on November 9, 2022 by admin

Class AAAAAAA Playoffs at a Glance

Region Champions: Colquitt County, Carrollton, North Paulding, Grayson, North Cobb, Milton, North Gwinnett, Buford

Best First Round Matchup: North Paulding vs Parkview

Round 1 Upset Alert (for Region Champs): North Paulding & Milton

Toughest Road to the Title for a Region Champ: North Cobb

Our Final Four Picks: Colquitt County, Buford, Mill Creek Milton

The Dark Horse: Camden County

Our State Champion Prediction: Mill Creek

The Class 7A state tournament is one of the best in the country. If teams can make it to round two, there are some potential great matchups and we really can’t say there is an “easy” path to the state title for any team. Our upset alerts go to North Paulding, who has a tough draw with perennial power Parkview and Milton, who did get a big win last week to claim the region title. The Eagles will host an upstart Cherokee team who had a big win over Kennesaw Mountain just to qualify for the No. 4 seed. Milton will be favored and we believe if they get past Cherokee they are a dangerous team that has been flying under the radar. Some potential second round matchups that would be prime time games include Mill Creek vs. North Cobb and Buford vs Walton. We like Mill Creek in this bracket, if they can get past the first two games. 

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

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 Milton Eagles are back in the post season for the 6th consecutive season as first year head coach Ben Reaves Jr. has the Eagles playing at a high level at the right time of the year. Milton has won their last five games as they enter this week, and they have only lost to one team from the state of Georgia this season. They are averaging 23.7 points per game and are allowing 17.7. The Eagles have defeated five playoff bound teams this season including Class 6A Top-10 Roswell. First year starter at quarterback Luke Nickel has filled in nicely as the sophomore has thrown for 1,857 yards and 16-TDs. Debron Gatling and Marc Essley are the top receivers for the Eagles.

The Cherokee Warriors overcame some improbable odds to beat Kennesaw Mountain and win by enough points to earn the tie-breaker in a three way tie that advances them to the postseason for the 5th consecutive season. Coach Josh Shaw has guided the Warriors into the post season seven times in his eleven year tenure. The Warriors are averaging 18.5 points per game and allowing 29.8. However, last week Cherokee held Kennesaw Mountain to 20 points below their average. Sophomore quarterback Tanner Savasir has thrown for 1,428 yards and 12-TDs. 

We put Milton on upset alert because we believe the Warriors might have tapped into something last Friday night. If Cherokee is going to beat their old region rival, they will need Kyan Simmons Javon Hobson and Chase Montgomery to really get pressure on Milton quarterback Jack Nickel. If they can do that we like their chances. However, that’s easier said than done. We like the Eagles by 10.

The Skinny

We feel like the Carrollton Trojans have been flying under the radar this season. It’s hard to believe we could say that of a 10-0 team with a freshman starting quarterback (Julian “Juju” Lewis), who has drawn comparisons to Trevor Lawrence with regards to his upside. Yet, here is a storied program in Carrollton that continues to win under head coach Joey King who is in his second year at the helm. Since 1990 Carrollton has only missed the post season one time. The Trojans are averaging 43.6 points per game and allowing 12.8. Carrollton has defeated seven teams headed for the post season. The aforementioned Lewis has thrown for 2,599 yards and 34-TDs and is completing 66.5% of his passes. 

The Lowndes Vikings are in a bit of a rebuilding year as they slip down to the 4-seed this season and will be on the road. The Vikings are just as storied as the Trojans and have only missed the post season twice since 1996. Coach Zach Grage moved over from Thomasville to Lowndes to coach the Vikings this season. The Vikings are averaging 27.3 points per game and are allowing 23.7. Lowndes has a balanced attack, averaging 127.3 yards per game on the ground and 129.8 yards per game through the air. Sophomore quarterback Marvis Parrish leads the Vikings in passing, (1,242 yards, 8-TDs) and in rushing, (691 yards, 15-TDs). 

The Lowndes defense will certainly be put to the test on Friday night as no one has been able to really derail Carrollton. Lowndes cannot afford to get into a track meet this week. Their path to victory looks to be one that involves ball control on offense to keep the potent Trojans on the sidelines. Even then, we believe Carrollton will be to tough at home. We like the Trojans by two touchdowns. 

The Skinny

The Westlake Lions are in the post season for the 10th consecutive season, as they moved into the largest classification in 2022 and were guided by Coach Rico Zackery in his first year at Westlake. The Lions have won six of their last seven games entering the playoffs and have defeated five playoff teams this season. They are averaging 35.1 points per game and allowing 17.9. Their three losses this season are by a combined 23 points and all came at the hands of ranked opponents. Through their first nine games, Westlake is averaging 140 yards per game through the air and 112.9 yards per game on the ground. During those 9-games, quarterback R.J. Johnson has thrown for 1,320 yards and 13-TDs. Running back Jai’Den Thomas was at 845 yards rushing through 9-games and has also added 9-TDs. 

The Valdosta Wildcats are back in the post season after a tumultuous 2021 which saw the school face a one year playoff ban. The Cats have responded resiliently, as they are back in the post season for 13th time in 14 years. Coach Shelton Felton has guided the Wildcats back to the post-season as they doubled their win total from last season. Valdosta had won their first eight games of the season before they were tripped up by region foes Camden County and Colquitt County to end the season. The Wildcats are averaging 27.4 points per game while their defense is allowing just 7.6 points per game. Valdosta does most of their damage on the ground as they are averaging 188.6 yards rushing and 98.8 yards through the air. As a team, Valdosta has rushed for 1,886 yards and are lead by backs Amhad Denson, Charles Williams and quarterback Todd Robinson as the trio has combined to rush for 1,377 yards and 13-TDs.

The big question that will be answered is whether or not Valdosta can bounce back from their last two games and find a way to win on the road. There is an old saying that “defense travels”, and the Wildcats will definitly need it to travel this week as they look to make a run into the post season. We believe the Wildcats will put up a valiant effort, but we like the senior quarterback R.J. Johnson to lead the Lions to victory. Westlake by 5.

The Skinny

The Lambert Longhorns are in the post season for the second straight year and for the first time under first year head coach Marc Beach. The Longhorns suffered their first setback of the season last week as they dropped their season finale to Milton. Lambert defeated six playoff teams this season. They average 34.2 points per game and area allowing 16.9 points per game. Through the first 9 games of the season the offense is averaging 169 yards per game through the air and 175.6 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback James Tyre has thrown for 1,459 yards and 15-TDs while it’s been running back by committee for the ground game with Ethan Terry, Tommy Lafayette, Cam Bland, and the aforementioned Tyre who are the top rushers on the team.

The Wheeler Wildcats are back into the post season for the first time since 2019. This is the second time Coach Brian Love has guided the Wildcats to the postseason in his four year tenure. Wheeler has defeated two playoff teams this season, but comes into this week winning only two of their last five games. The Wildcats are averaging 21.5 points per game and allowing 23.7. Wheeler gets the majority of their offense from the ground game as they are averaging 261.7 yards per game on the ground and just 75.4 yards per game through the air. Sophomore running back Josiah Allen leads the team with 1,701 yards and 16-TDs. Defensively, Ty Holiday leads the team in sacks with 6. 

The formula for Wheeler seems pretty simple…feed the Lambert defense a steady dose of Josiah Allen. (He’s averaging 19 carries a game.) Then the Wheeler defense will have to find a way to get James Tyre and the Longhorns offense off the field. We believe Wheeler’s ability to run the game should help keep this game close, however, we believe Lambert has the edge playing at home. Longhorns by 6.

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