Georgia Aug/Sept 2021 by ITG Next Magazine

AUG/SEPT 2021

Presented by:

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• Hughston’s quality patient care has kept us #1 in orthopaedics for 70 years • Organizing preparticipation physicals since 1976 • Covering over 1,500 local sporting events each year • Saturday morning injury clinic • Researching and implementing concussion management software for local athletes

LOCATIONS Albany Auburn Columbus Dothan

Dublin LaGrange Macon Moultrie

Phenix City Thomaston Thomasville Valdosta

6262 Veterans Parkway • Columbus, GA 31909

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4 North Carter Street Lakeland, Georgia 31635 (229) 482-3585

978 Valdosta Highway Homerville, Georgia 31634 (912) 487-1200

202 W. Washington Ave. Nashville, Georgia 31639 (229) 686-9451

1201 S. Patterson Street Valdosta, Georgia 31603 (229) 244-3585

3303 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, Georgia 31605 (229) 244-3585

www.fmb.net Member FDIC

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AAAAAAA

North Cobb Warriors 44

Johns Creek Gladiators 70

Clarke Central Gladiators 99

North Gwinnett Bulldogs 45

Kell Longhorns 71

Coffee Trojans 100

North Paulding Wolfpack 46

Lakeside (Evans) Panthers 72

Creekside Seminoles 102

Parkview Panthers 48

Lanier Longhorns 73

Dutchtown Bulldogs 103

Peachtree Ridge Lions 50

Lee Co. Trojans 76

Roswell Hornets 51

Northside (WR) Eagles 79

Tift Co. Blue Devils 52

Richmond Hill Wildcats 80

Walton Raiders 54

River Ridge Knights 81

AAAAAA

Rome Wolves 82

Archer Tigers 19 Camden Co. Wildcats 21 Cherokee Warriors 22 Collins Hill Eagles 23 Colquitt Co. Packers 24 Dacula Falcons 26 Denmark Danes 28 Gainesville Red Elephants 29 Grayson Rams 31 Harrison Hoyas 32 Hillgrove Hawks 33 Lowndes Vikings 34 Marietta Blue Devils 36 McEachern Indians 39 Mill Creek Hawks 40 Milton Eagles 41

56 Allatoona Buccaneers 58 Bradwell Institute Tigers 59 Brunswick Pirates 60 Buford Wolves 62 Carrollton Trojans 64 Dalton Catamounts 65 Evans Knights 66

Newton Rams 42

Glynn Academy Red Terrors 67

Norcross Blue Devils 43

Houston Co. Bears 69

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Shiloh Generals 84 South Paulding Spartans 86 Statesboro Blue Devils 87 Valdosta Wildcats 89 Westlake Lions 90

AAAAA 92 Blessed Trinity Titans 94 Calhoun Yellow Jackets 96 Cartersville Purple Hurricanes 98

Griffin Bears 104 Harris Co. Tigers 107 Jones Co. Greyhounds 108

AAAA 120 Bainbridge Bearcats 122 Benedictine Cadets 127 Cario Syrupmakers 129 Carver (Columbus) Tigers 131 Cedar Shoals Jaguars 132 Columbus Blue Devils 133

Ola Mustangs 109

Flowery Branch Falcons 134

Southwest Dekalb Panthers 110

Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans 135

Starr’s Mill Panthers 112

Hapeville Charter Hornets 136

Stockbridge Tigers 113

Jefferson Dragons 137

Union Grove Wolverines 114

LaGrange Grangers 139

Veterans Warhawks 115

Madison Co. Red Raiders 140

Warner Robins Demons 116 Wayne Co. Yellow Jackets 117 Woodland (Cartersville) Wildcats 118 Woodward Academy War Eagles 119

Marist War Eagles 141 Mays Raiders 142 North Oconee Titans 143 Northwest Whitfield Bruins 144 Perry Panthers 145

Stephenson Jaguars 146

Sumter Co. Panthers 176

Charlton Co. Indians 205

Thomas Co. Central Yellow Jackets 147

Thomson Bulldogs 178

Clinch Co. Panthers 206

Westminster Wildcats 179

Dublin Fighting Irish 207

Troup Tigers 149 West Laurens Raiders 150

Westover Patriots 152

180

AAA 154 Appling Co. Pirates 156 Brantley Co. Herrons 159 Burke Co. Bears 160 Cedar Grove Saints 161

Bacon Co. Red Raiders 183 Berrien Rebels 185 Bleckley Co. Royals 186 Callaway Cavaliers 187 Cook Hornets 188 Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane 190

Crisp Co. Cougars 164

Jeff Davis Yellow Jackets 192

Dawson Co. Tigers 166

Rabun Co. Wildcats 195

Douglass Astros 167

Thomasville Bulldogs 197

Hart Co. Bulldogs 168

Toombs Co. Bulldogs 198

Oconee Co. Warriors 171 Pierce Co. Bears 172 Rockmart Yellow Jackets 174 Sandy Creek Fighting Patriots 175

Worth Co. Rams 201

A Public 202 Brooks Co. Trojans 204

Irwin Co. Indians 208

Fellowship Christian Paladins 232 First Presbyterian Day Vikings 233 Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Golden Bears 234

Lanier Co. Bulldogs 209

Prince Avenue Christian Wolverines 235

McIntosh Co. Academy Buccaneers 210

Savannah Christian Raiders 236

Metter Tigers 211 Mitchell Co. Eagles 213 Pelham Hornets 214 Turner Co. Titans 218 Wilcox Co. Patriots 221

A Private

Savannah Country Day Hornets 237 Stratford Academy Eagles 238 Wesleyan Wolves 239

GISA Frederica Academy Knights 240

Player Profiles Jalen Merriweather Valdosta 12 Travis Hunter Collins Hill 37 Lebbeus Overton Milton 47 Taylor Zion Parkview 61 Damian Gaines Mitchell County 106 Wesley Malone Tiftarea 111 Dontavious Broadnax Bainbridge 123 Da’Marcus Allen Northside (WR) 163

222

John Milledge Trojans 243

Tyrus Washington Lee County 169

Athens Academy Spartans 224

Southland Academy Raiders 244

Brant Gibson Perry 182

Brookstone Cougars 226

Tiftarea Panthers 247

Calvary Day Cavaliers 227

Valwood Valiants 248

Jayden Parker Pelham 216

Deerfield-Windsor Knights 228

Westfield Hornets 251

Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Chargers 230

Westwood Wildcats 252 Georgia Christian Generals 254

Tylar Belcher Lowndes 241 The information, including game schedules, in this preview is accurate at the time of publishing. ITG Next | 9

Our Team Contributors Publisher Mark Dykes Copy Editors Phil Jones Nick Anschultz Jonnie Brewer Graphics Mandy Douthit Lauren Caulder Audrey Wall Player Profile Photography Eric Vinson Dreaming Wild Photography Brandon Pham Feature Writers Phil Jones Dhruv Mohan Zach M. Edmondson Travis Jaudon Nick Anschultz Jacob Johnson Advertising/Marketing Andrew Pipkin andrew@itgnext.com Mark Dykes mark@itgnext.com Digital Manager Mandy Douthit

ITG Next is published bi-monthly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Dykes Media Group LLC makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2021 Dykes Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

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Mark Dykes

Mandy Douthit

aNNA Limoges

Chief Executive Officer

Creative Director

director of operations

Founder Mark Dykes is the entrepreneur and mastermind behind the In the Game vision. Back in 2007, Mark set out to create a company that captured the passion, intensity, and unrivaled commitment toward high school athletics in the South Georgia area. Today, that vision has become a reality, and he continues to be the leading influence in what lies ahead for In the Game, despite his annual prediction that UGA will win the National Championship.

As a Pine Mountain, Georgia, native, Mandy’s move to Valdosta has brought enhanced artistry and intricacy to the ITG design team. The University of West Georgia alum graduated with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in art with a concentration in graphic design. Her artistic nature has allowed her to use graphic design to win national and international design competitions, all of which are meant to serve as diversions and coping mechanisms for Alabama’s loss in the National Championship.

Anna became a member of the ITG Next team in 2016, serving as an intern for three semesters. After graduating from Valdosta State University in 2017, she remained with the team as an editor, devoting her editorial eye to the company for two years before becoming the Director of Operations. In her free time, Anna enjoys reading and writing. More importantly, although she claims to be a fan of the New Orleans Saints, there is fortunately no other sign of such irrational fandom.

Andrew Pipkin Account Executive

Phil Jones

Tyrah Walker

Broadcaster/Writer

Broadcaster

Born and raised in South Georgia, Andrew attended Valdosta State University where he obtained a degree in marketing and business. He is passionate about sports, especially high school football (Go Cats!). Andrew’s focus is to develop and cultivate relationships with businesses all around South Georgia. Like so many other Georgia Bulldogs fans, his hopes of a national championship increase every year, but in the end they are just long lost dreams.

Phil Jones is a native of South Georgia and calls Valdosta home. He is a 19-year veteran of the newspaper business, during which time he served as chairman of the Georgia Press Association’s Sales and Marketing Committee. He was also recognized as the state’s top newspaper circulation and sales director in 2002. Phil has worked in the radio industry for the last 12 years as host of The Afternoon Sports Drive, a daily sports show devoted mostly to high school football and other local sports.

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Tyrah Walker is excited to join the ITG Next family as one of the on-air hosts. A graduate of the preeminent University of South Florida, she received her bachelor's degree in mass communications with an emphasis in broadcast news (Go, Bulls!). Tyrah is also an author. She is looking forward to sharing sports stories with the community. When she's not hosting or blogging, Tyrah enjoys reading, photography, and spending time with family.

Brandon Pham

Nick Anschultz

Eric Vinson

Videographer

Content Creator

Contributing Photographer

Brandon recently graduated from Valdosta State University with a degree in mass media. He is a sports videographer ready to get back into the action. He prefers to use Sony cameras. He currently uses a Sony 6300 but will be getting the new Sony A7siii. His dream is to be a videographer for the NFL or any sports team. His favorite sports team is Orlando City SC even though they’ve never been to the playoffs.

Nick is a native of Lake City, Florida, and joined the ITG Next team this summer as a sports editor and content creator. He recently graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in journalism and communications. He is a passionate sports fan, with college and high school football being his favorites to watch. In his free time, Nick enjoys fishing and taking up activities in the outdoors.

Eric Vinson is a native of Lowndes County and a graduate of Valdosta High School. He recently got his Bachelor’s of Fine Arts from Valdosta State University in mass media. Eric loves taking photos, watching sports, and producing music.

Want to Join the Intern Team? Apply online at itgnext.com

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Written by: Dhruv Mohan

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS Sam Horn Collins Hill 3,910 YDs

Tyler Hughes Marietta 2,703 YDS

Lonnie Ratliff Duluth 2,505 YDS

AJ Swann Cherokee 2,505 YDS

Keith Adams Jr. Cherokee 1,350 YDS

Jordan McDonald Milton 1,338 YDS

Jacurri Brown Lowndes 1,101 YDS

Ryan Hill II Roswell 879 YDS

testudotimes.com

GAMES TO WATCH Milton @ North Cobb

West Forsyth @ Walton

Camden County @ Marietta

Milton is returning several starters from last season and have acquired some transfers to fill needs on both sides of the football. They are expected to be a front-runner for the 7A state title. However, North Cobb is not out of that conversation either. Led by rapidly ascending QB Malachi Singleton, the Warriors will look to build off a very impressive 10-2 campaign in 2020. This might be the game of the year because of the talent on both teams coupled with the high expectations for each program as they grind out the 2021 season.

This would seemingly be an odd choice in 2019 and 2020, but not in 2021. West Forsyth brings back a deadly offensive connection: Rising junior QB Keegan Stover to rising senior four-star TE Oscar Delp. After advancing to the quarterfinals in 2020, expectations are at an all-time high for the Wolverines. That may not be the case for Walton, but they don’t deserve to be slept on either. The Raiders may be the most well-rounded team in 7A, as they return star players within almost every offensive and defensive group. These two squads met last year, and West Forsyth escaped with a 24-21 victory. What’s in store for 2021?

Jeff Herron’s return to coaching at Camden County brings hope to a program that hasn’t maintained its former level of relevance recently. His experience combined with talented playmakers like RB Jamie Felix, WR Deonte Cole, and OLB Jadin Jones could be the perfect recipe for a bounce back season. Marietta, on the other hand, bounced back in the wrong way last season, going 3-8 just one season after a state championship. With QB Tyler Hughes and OLB Daniel Martin, there is a legitimate possibility that the Blue Devils win over five or six games in 2021 versus a rigorous schedule. This matchup serves as a “status check” as both teams retool for success.

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IMPACT CHANGES After a rollercoaster 2020 season, 2021 brings more stability. South Gwinnett hired former Tucker coach Bryan Lamar, which could be instrumental for them in making the playoffs annually. Camden County brought back Jeff Herron to coach the Kingsland crew, which should make an immediate impact for a competitive program. Colquitt County hired a long list of experienced coaches, including former Hillgrove head coach Byron Slack and former Tift County head coach Ashley Anders. No high-profile transfers have occurred yet, but with ways to go before the first kickoff of 2021, the possibility of some big-name players switching schools is high.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Rich Dorsey

Travis Hunter

Collins Hill 162 TKS

Collins Hill 1,746 YDs

Zakye Barker

Daniel Martin

Norcross 155 TKS

Marietta 896 YDs

Dion Crawford

Adarrius Harshaw

Collins Hill 124 TKS

Cherokee 872 YDs

Rishon Spencer

Jaquan Ivy

Duluth 829 YDs

Mountain View 117 TKS

TW: Zakye Barker

TOP TEN RANKINGS 7A

2 Milton

6 North Cobb

3 Collins Hill

7 Brookwood

4 Lowndes

8 West Forsyth

Grayson

Colquitt County

10 Walton

North Gwinnett

ITG Next | 17

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REGION 7 - 7A

AUG

@ Westlake

Warner Robins

SEPT

@ Grayson

North Gwinnett

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography by: ITG Next

overall record 7

358

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

207

@ Dunwoody

OCT

Meadowcreek

@ Berkmar

OCT Discovery

NOV

@ Duluth

NOV Norcross

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

ARCHER

Head Coach: Andy Dyer

KEY LOSSES This season, the Tigers will be without two of their best running backs from last year in Rontayev’on Grant and Renoldo Spivey Jr., both of which carried the ball well in Archer’s run-heavy offense. The Tigers offense is also losing their mobile threat quarterback Vashaun Stockmann, who was thrusted into the starting lineup mid-season and led his team to a playoff berth. The Tigers stingy defense from last season did not lose many starters, but they did lose one of their best players in strong safety Jaylen Williams, who committed to play at the University of Louisville in the fall. The Tigers are a young team and have good depth at most positions, but these players will be missed once the season kicks off.

Expect the Tigers to lean on their ground game again this season, as it was dominant last year and with a still young offensive line, protecting the quarterback may still be an issue. Coach Dyer acknowledged the need to protect their quarterback and implemented more roll out passing schemes during spring practice. The Tigers defense was great last year, holding opposing teams to under 10 points in four games, and with many of their starters returning, this unit should put up another good season. The Tigers will most likely be a gritty hard-nosed team that runs the ball well, relies on good defense to win games, and makes a push for the region title and a deep run into the playoffs.

WHO’S BACK With Williams gone, the Tigers’ other safety, Caleb Wooden, will be tasked with leading the defensive backfield this season. The free safety will be looking to have a big year to impress scouts and add on to his already long list of offers from Division I schools. The Tigers offense was their weak point last season but returning star wide receiver and Georgia Tech commit DJ Moore II looks to start off fast, but he will need help from his young offensive line and quarterback Caleb Peevy, who was benched last season for the more mobile Stockmann. Archer’s coaching staff will be looking for big things this season from Peevy, who did have a good spring practice, showing off his arm strength and accuracy.

With another tough early season schedule, I expect the Tigers to start slow but finish strong.

ITG Next | 19

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912-417-5423 I sghs.org/summit

REGION 1 - 7A

AUG

@ Glynn Academy

Columbia

SEPT

Beacon Hill (VA)

@ Marietta

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record Wins

Oakleaf (FL)

SEPT

@ Coffee

OCT

Warner Robins

OCT

Colquitt County

NOV

@ Tift County

OCT Lowndes

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 5

SEPT

CAMDEN COUNTY

232

Losses Points Scored

281

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Jeff Herron

WHAT TO EXPECT The question everyone seems to be asking is whether Herron will bring the triple option offense back to Camden. The former Wildcat coach enjoyed a lot of success with the run heavy offense, but Sphire spent his four years at Camden moving the Wildcats toward a more pass-happy, wide open offense. My bet is that Herron will go back to what he knows best, but that doesn’t necessarily mean a rebuild or reset for the Wildcats this season. They will have enough talent to be effective with whatever offense Herron decides to run, but there still could be a transition season, just as with any coaching and philosophy change.

Herron returns to lead the Camden High football team after the departure of Sphire. He will have a few notable weapons to work with on the offensive side of the ball, where Herron figures to be very involved. Senior running back Jamie Felix returns after missing most of last season with a hamstring injury. Camden is hoping Felix can return to his 2019 form when he rushed for over 1,100 yards and 15 TDs. Last year’s starter at QB, Josh Brown, has left the program. Herron says there is a 3-way battle between Gray Loden, Jake Lindsey, and Mason Robinson for the job. He figures to go to returning receiver Jadin Jones this year, although Jones will also play outside linebacker. Senior offensive lineman Noah DeMeritt returns and is mulling several Division I offers. Athlete Deonte Cole and kicker Adonis Coyle are returning.

KEY LOSSES For one, head coach Bob Sphire left to return to his home state of Kentucky, where he’ll continue to coach high school football. Fan favorite and longtime Wildcat coach Jeff Herron returns. As far as the players go, Camden loses seven players whose value is underscored by the fact that they’re all college bound to continue their football careers. One of the best linemen to ever don the Camden blue, Micah Morris, is headed to the University of Georgia. Defensive lineman Deterias Glover is headed to Austin Peay State while defensive end Hudson Tucker will head to Tennessee Tech. Defensive back Keith Giddens will play at Wingate, while linebacker/running back Daryl Williams will take his talents to Georgia Military College. Wide receiver Shawn Hardy will become a Nebraska Cornhusker, while punter Skyler “Colt” Courson will walk on at Wake Forest.

It’s hard to see a Jeff Herron team not having a winning season, and it doesn’t start now. Plus a couple of playoff wins.

ITG Next | 21

REGION 5 - 7A

CHEROKEE

AUG

@ Mays

@ Sequoyah

SEPT

@ Rome

Creekview

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of ajc.com

overall record 8

309

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

200

Head Coach: Josh Shaw

WHAT TO EXPECT “We have some electric offensive skill players,” head coach Josh Shaw said. “But we lost some depth on defense . . . we have some holes to fill leading up to the season.” While the Warriors may struggle on defense, coach Shaw says they “shouldn’t have issues scoring points” on offense. With what coach Shaw calls a “three-headed monster” on offense with three All-Region players starting at QB, RB and WR, look for the Warriors to put the ball in the endzone often in 2021. Losing some standouts on defense will hurt, but the Warriors have enough talent coming back to fill those holes. If they are at a disadvantage, it won’t be by much.

22 | itgnext.com

@ Cartersville

OCT

@ Woodstock

OCT

Roswell

Etowah

Alpharetta

NOV

@ Milton

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

All-Region quarterback AJ Swann is a three-year starter at Cherokee. Last season, Swann threw for over 2,500 yards and 23 touchdowns. He is committed to play football at Maryland. All-Region running back Keith Adams Jr. will be joining Swann in the backfield once again. Adams rushed for over 1,300 yards and 14 scores last season. Adams currently has (13) college offers. All-Region wide receiver Adarrius Harshaw had almost 900 yards receiving and seven scores and has several offers as well. All-Region safety Keegan Baker recorded three INTs in 2020. All-Region linebacker Tyler Goddard recorded 99 total tackles. His twin, All-Region safety Chase Goddard, recorded 59 total tackles. All-Region defensive end Toby Thompson was right behind Tyler Goddard with 91 total tackles.

KEY LOSSES All-Region wide receivers Brady Bocherer and Hayden Shockley contributed a lot to the Warriors’ passing attack in 2020. Bocherer accounted for 638 yards receiving and seven touchdowns. Shockley had 455 receiving yards and six touchdowns. The Warriors lost three solid offensive linemen in Nason Simmons, Derrick Battle and Steve Hardison. Defensively, All-Region linebacker Braesen Parker was the 7A Region 5 Defensive Player of the Year and the Warriors’ leading tackler with 126 total tackles. Parker also recorded two INTs and nine pass deflections. Linebacker Will Ross recorded 82 total tackles and seven tackles for loss. All-Region defensive back Austin Trimble caught two INT’s and recorded 10 pass deflections on the year. All-Region defensive back Riley Lyons was the team’s leader in INTs with four.

The Warriors are getting more talent back than they are losing, especially on offense. They will make a deeper run in the playoffs in 2021 and may even have a shot at the state title.

REGION 8 - 7A

AUG

American Heritage (FL)

AUG

@ Sprayberry

SEPT

@ American Heritage (FL)

SEPT @ Rome

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by: Brandon Pham

overall record 12

3 Losses

441

Points Scored Points Allowed

256

Alpharetta

SEPT

East Coweta

OCT

Peachtree Ridge

OCT

@ North Gwinnett

OCT

Mountain View

OCT

@ Mill Creek

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

COLLINS HILL

Head Coach: Lenny Gregory

KEY LOSSES Offensively, the Eagles are only losing wide receivers Sean Norris and Clint Gilbert as far as standout skill players go. Norris accounted for 652 yards receiving and 11 touchdowns, while Gilbert hauled in 78 receptions for 742 yards. On defense, the Eagles are losing their leading tackler in defensive end James Smith who recorded 180 total tackles. Sixty-one of Smith’s 180 tackles were tackles for loss, and he also recorded 17 sacks on the year. The Eagles are also losing linebacker Logan Birdsong who is tied for second-most tackles on the team with 162 total tackles.

The Eagles are going to be vicious in 2021. The team is absolutely loaded with talent. However, according to head coach Lenny Gregory, the Eagles are simply “focusing on getting better”. “It’s a new team,” Gregory said. “We’ve got a lot coming back, but we’ve got some holes to fill.” They are coming off a 2020 season that they only lost three times in. One loss came in a close overtime game to East Coweta, and the other two losses came against an undefeated Grayson team during a regular season game and once more in the state championship game. Expect the Eagles’ offense to light up the scoreboard all season in 2021. All signs are pointing to a Collins Hill state title this year, and every team they face will have pulled off an upset if they manage to beat the Eagles.

WHO’S BACK Star quarterback Sam Horn is back to lead the offense in 2021. Horn threw for almost 4,000 yards and 41 touchdowns last season. Horn is a four-star recruit and the No. 7 pro-style quarterback in the class in 2022, (according to 247Sports). Furthermore, he has committed to play at Missouri next year. Also back is MaxPreps National Junior of the Year wide receiver Travis Hunter. In 2020, Hunter accounted for over 1,700 yards receiving and 24 scores. Hunter is a five-star Florida State commit. MaxPreps has ranked Horn and Hunter as the No. 1 quarterback-wide receiver duo coming into the 2021 season. Defensively, Hunter contributed 51 total tackles and eight INTs in 2020. Joining them in 2021 will be the team’s leading rusher, running back Spenser Anderson as well as All-State tackle Jaylen George, All-State linebackers Dion Crawford and Rich Dorsey, and All-State cornerback Christian Harris.

The Eagles, led by quarterback Sam Horn and wide receiver Travis Hunter, will go undefeated and top their season off by winning the state championship in 2021. Record: 15-0.

ITG Next | 23

REGION 1 - 7A

COLQUITT COUNTY

AUG

@ Marietta

AUG Westlake

SEPT

Cedar Grove

SEPT

@ Valdosta

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 9

406

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

106

Head Coach: Justin Rogers

WHO’S BACK Pershaun Fann willl return, and it looks like he could be counted on to contribute on both sides of the ball. He’ll certainly be back at his familiar linebacker position, and it appears that the heavily recruited Packer senior will takwe over the QB duties, also. He’ll be looking to returning junior receiver JJ Reddick as one of his top targets, along with tight end K’Veon Pollard. On the defensive side, Colquitt County cornerback Dextra Polite Jr. will return to wreak havoc with opposing receivers, while linebackers Pershaun Fann and Antwan Daniels look to give Colquitt’s defense a boost this season.

24 | itgnext.com

Heritage (Conyers)

SEPT

Northside (Warner Robins)

OCT Alcovy

OCT

@ Camden County

OCT

@ Lowndes

OCT

Tift County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

Expect more of the same from this Colquitt County program which has established itself as a year over year powerhouse program. Despite losing several players from an incredibly talented team last year, Colquitt will simply reload with a stellar group of incoming talent. If you’re wondering about the ‘Pack losing starting QB Xavier Williams, remember it was Zane Touchton who came in and kept things going in the right direction for the remainder of last season. It will be his job right out of the gate this season. Look for Colquitt to keep rolling.

KEY LOSSES Where to start? The Packers will say goodbye to a large senior class, which included several key starters from last season’s nine-win team. Those not returning include quarterback Xavier Williams, who signed with The University of North Carolina-Charlotte. The entire defensive backfield has graduated, including TJ Spradley, who is headed to Valdosta State, along with Omar Daniels, who signed with Kansas State. Safety Jaheim Ward will also play collegiately, signing with Austin Peay. Wide receivers Lemeke Brockington signed with Minnesota, and Orion Bonner signed with Glennville State University. Other key players that are leaving include defensive linemen Zy Brockington and Gamal Wallace.

Region title in the tough 1-7A.

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Moultrie

229-985-3620

Tifton

229-386-2278

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229-686-7431

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DACULA

REGION 8 - 6A

AUG

SEPT

Mill Creek

Tucker

SEPT

@ Mountain View

Lanier

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of gwinnettprepsports.com

2020 STATS overall record 7

Wins

341

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

240

Head Coach: Casey Vogt

WHO’S BACK Looking forward to this season, the Falcons have some inexperienced players but will also be bringing back some of their best from last year. Kyle Efford is a tough physical runner who should have another solid year and (will also be playing at Georgia Tech this fall after committing in early July.) Another player to watch is running back and linebacker Rashawn Hawkins. With two of the team’s linebackers from last season now gone, he may provide good depth at the position. Hawkins also plays in an h-back role in the offense. Dacula will still have a solid linebacking core this season, with Festus Davies primed to have a good year going into his senior campaign.

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OCT

@ Winder -Barrow

OCT

@ Habersham Central

OCT

@ Shiloh

OCT

Central Gwinnett

NOV Buford

WHAT TO EXPECT There is some very good talent along this roster and a new coach brings a lot of new possibilities for Dacula, but they are inexperienced in some positions. They have questions at quarterback, but a solid run game behind Kyle Efford will take them far in this region. Expect this team to run the ball a lot and wear down opposing defenses, while also playing well defensively, especially along their front-seven led by Davies. Senior offensive lineman Calen Strawhand should also hold his offensive line together and open up big holes up the middle, and at 310lbs there will not be many defensive linemen that will move him backwards.

KEY LOSSES After a successful season making the playoffs last year, the Falcons will have to replace some key players: most notably Kaleb Edwards. Edwards played safety for Dacula and committed to Georgia Tech before the season began. Going into this season, his high school team will have to find a way to replace his production and leadership. Dacula will also have to replace a pair of linebackers this season after both Dylan Hand and TJ Young graduated and will now be playing at the collegiate level. They also lost one of their best offensive linemen in Adam Watkins, who will join Hand playing for Kennesaw State University.

I believe this team will finish the season by playing well, taking advantage of a favorable early season schedule.

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REGION 6 - 7A

DENMARK

AUG

Cedartown

Banneker

SEPT

@ Shiloh

SEPT

@ Lanier

SEPT

North Forsyth

OCT

@ Forsyth Central

OCT

@ South Forsyth

Lambert

OCT

NOV

@ Gainesville

West Forsyth

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of denmarkdanefootball.com

WHAT TO EXPECT Expect Asher West to receive a bulk of the carries out of the backfield for the Danes, who should once again be competing for a spot in the Class 7A playoffs. Expect Denmark to be better defensively than offensively early, but the team will need to play complimentary football throughout the season to compete in a crowded region race.

2020 STATS overall record 6

Wins

257

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

169

Head Coach: Michael Palmieri Apparel Banquets Podcasts Newsletters Magazines Social Media

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WHO’S BACK The defense returns linebacker Dee Crayton and defensive back Treston Jordan. Along the front on offense, the Danes should be solid with the return of offensive line starters Shamurad Umarova (and) Jake Seubert. (deleted Amon Williams. Listed as running back). Trey Glymph is one of the better place-kickers in the classification, and the senior was a first team member in the region as a junior last season.

KEY LOSSES

Quarterback Aaron McLaughlin has graduated after winning the Region 6-7A Player of the Year Award in his senior campaign. Wide receiver Azari Brown, a first team all-region selection from 2020, has also graduated. The Danes graduated linebacker Harrison Halder and defensive back Kaden Henley, too.

The Danes match their record from 2020. 28 | itgnext.com

REGION 6 - 7A

AUG

Johns Creek

@ Chattahoochee

SEPT

Flowery Branch

Forsyth Central

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of gainesvilletimes.com

overall record Wins

308

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

206

@ Hillgrove

OCT

@ Lambert

OCT

South Forsyth

OCT

@ West Forsyth

OCT Denmark

NOV

@ North Forsyth

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 6

SEPT

GAINESVILLE

Head Coach: Heath Webb

WHO’S BACK Gainesville may be in good hands, simply from the quantity of underclassmen returning in 2021. They have two potential rising sophomore options at QB in Baxter Wright and Ellis Pitts. Naim Cheeks will return after a 2020 campaign that featured a first-team selection in Region 6. JQ Drinkard, Shun Ramsey, and Elias Ballard will return as potential targets. Elijah Ruiz, Edgar Ortega, and Michael Gosa will be key components of a growing offensive line in 2021. Edge rusher Qua Coley will be an integral part of Gainesville’s defensive line this season. The secondary will be reliant on two-way players like Drinkard, Ramsey, and Ballard along with rising stars in DJ Miller, Mori Young, and Jeremiah Watts.

In their first season in 7A, Gainesville turned heads by winning six games and clinching the third seed in a competitive region. The future could be promising for the Red Elephants, especially as their young talent adjusts and chemistry builds. Factor in that other teams in the region lost key stars (Denmark - Azari Brown/Aaron McLaughlin and South Forsyth - Kyle Durham/Mitch Thompson), and the prospect of a two-seed seems very possible. Gainesville will likely lean on the run game early in 2021 as they allow time for their sophomore QBs to adjust to the pace of the game. If they can maintain a level of physicality and finesse throughout region play, a second round playoff berth may not be out of the question.

KEY LOSSES Gainesville will lose senior QB Gionni Williams but will surprisingly retain all of their running backs. Receivers Ramsey Waters, Jaylen Smith, and Shamar Rucker have graduated; so future-receiving opportunities may be limited for the Red Elephants. The key loss up front is Cedrick Nicely, a first-team all-region selection at tackle in 2020. On the defensive line, Gainesville will surely miss the imposing presence of Lemuel Gayle, also a first-team all-region selection. Linebackers Quamaine Rucker and Yusif Ali, two of the only seniors playing that position, have also graduated. In the secondary, the Red Elephants will have to replace Lenny Chatman, another All-Region selection in 2020. The special teams department will also be affected by graduation, as punter Tristan Lyon will continue his career at Georgia State.

I predict a first-round playoff win.

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REGION 4 - 7A

AUG

SEPT

Creekside

McEachern

Archer

SEPT

@ Harrison

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 14

536

Points Scored Points Allowed

112

SEPT

@ Mill Creek

OCT

South Gwinnett

OCT

@ Parkview

OCT Brookwood

OCT

@ Newton

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

GRAYSON

Head Coach: Adam Carter

WHO’S BACK Going into this season, the Rams will have a new player at almost every skill position. Sean Downer and Joseph Taylor Jr. will likely split the workload at running back. Downer had a productive year last season even behind star running back Mafah, while Taylor had the second most rushing touchdowns. Both backs will need to have another solid year to replace the production the offense is losing with Mafah graduating. De’yon Cannon will take over the starting quarterback role for the Rams. The two-sport athlete in both baseball and football will take over for Garcia. Cannon has experience in the offense and should be able to come in and lead this still explosive unit.

Grayson has been competitive and dominant for the last several years, even when losing a lot of players. This season the task will be the same. The wide receiver position looks to be their most inexperienced, but that does not seem to worry the coaching staff or their players. Look for Cannon to play well and get his young receivers up to speed. Downer and Taylor will get a lot of carries for the Rams and take some pressure off the young receiving core. If the Rams want a chance at defending their state title, these young players will have to step up, but they have time with the bulk of their region games not until late in the season.

KEY LOSSES The 2020 7A state champion and football powerhouse Grayson will go into this season with a few question marks, notably at the quarterback position. Jake Garcia has left and will be playing for the University of Miami. Garcia was dominant in the one year he was at Grayson, and his production will be hard to replace. The Rams offense will also be without leading rusher and Clemson commit Phil Mafah, who torched opposing defenses for over 1,100 yards and 18 touchdowns. Their offense will also be without wide receiver Jamal Haynes, who will be suiting up for Georgia Tech this fall. Grayson’s defensive unit lost its leader in tackles and interceptions with Jayvian Allen graduating and going to play for Tennessee Tech.

I expect for Grayson to continue their dominance in 7A.

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REGION 3 - 7A

HARRISON

AUG

@ Allatoona

AUG

North Forsyth

SEPT

@ Hughes

SEPT Grayson

SEPT

@ Marist

OCT

@ North Cobb

WHAT TO EXPECT Harrison’s first season in 7A didn’t prove so fruitful, as they followed up their 15-0 campaign in 2019 with a 4-6 season in 2020. Additionally, legendary head coach Matt Dickmann left following the conclusion of last season. It doesn’t get any better for the Hoyas considering they must play a non-region slate that includes Grayson and Marist, two of the 2020 state champions. However, the one constant through all this is Harrison’s physicality. They fight every snap and never give up in a game. Much of that can be expected again in 2021 against a tough schedule. The Hoyas’ record won’t appear pretty on paper, but they will take advantage of teams that sleep on them in the early playoff rounds.

KEY LOSSES Harrison relies heavily on their running game and losing first-team All-Region selection Jay Ziglor will leave a mark. The Hoyas will be hit hard in the trenches on both sides of the football. Offensive linemen Peyton Bumpers and Cole Simmer along with defensive lineman Bryce Stanfield and Davion Hood have graduated. All were firstteam All-Region selections. The most important loss may come from the linebacker group, as Region Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Bleazard will not return. Additionally, linebacker, Charles Remy, also graduated. Luckily for the Hoyas, they will not lose any key pieces of their secondary. Their special teams game will be hurt significantly though with the loss of kicker and punter Christian Lowery.

A solid season may be in the books for Harrison, making it to the second round of the playoffs after an intense regular season schedule.

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OCT

North Paulding

OCT Marietta

OCT

NOV

@ Walton

@ Hillgrove

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of toledoblade.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

200 205

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Joshua Cassidy

WHO’S BACK While losing several seniors may seem detrimental to this squad, they will still be in good hands with talented underclassmen. Jared Montour and Akhnaton Shabazz will lead a very focused and physical running game in 2021. Montour will also assist Dylan Beasley in the receiving game for Harrison. Defense may be the strength for the Hoyas in 2021, especially in the secondary. Trenton Hayberg and Nathan Vail will aim to lock down opposing passing offenses as they did last season. The front seven will get some help as well with defensive ends Nick Charles and Nicholas Springer, who proved key for the Hoyas last year.

REGION 3 - 7A

AUG

@ Norcross

Kell

SEPT

@ McEachern

SEPT

OCT

Morrow

Gainesville

Walton

overall record 5

Losses

218 254

OCT

@ Marietta

OCT

@ North Cobb

OCT

North Paulding

NOV Harrison

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 4

SEPT

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of hillgroveathletics.com

Wins

HILLGROVE

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Justin DeShon

WHAT TO EXPECT Over the past few seasons, Hillgrove has spiraled downwards. They followed up a 12-1 campaign in 2018 with only 11 combined wins over the next two years. The Hawks will also have to operate under another head coach, Justin DeShon, who is taking over for Byron Slack. This time may be best viewed as a rebuilding phase for Hillgrove as young talent ages. Additionally, adjusting to three head coaches in two years is no easy feat. Look for the Hawks to find some consistency in 2021, establishing a solid passing attack that may prove more deadly in 2022. In a tough region that features North Cobb, Marietta, Walton, and Harrison, a playoff berth is no guarantee either.

The offensive key for the Hawks will be rising sophomore QB Chase McCravy, who has shown some promise, even taking over the starting job as a freshman. He will look for star receiver Cayden Lee, who caught over 500 yards worth of passes last year. The running game will be a work in progress until the Hawks find a solid, reliable rushing option. Defensively, the front seven is filled with upcoming talent. Linebackers Kyle McKinney and Zion Rutledge along with lineman Rubens Joseph will prove key in stuffing the run. In the secondary, another stud, Emory Floyd, will look to intercept several passes. If he can’t make a play, safety Stanley Horn Jr. will.

KEY LOSSES Hillgrove used two quarterbacks during the season and one of them, Theo Tatum, graduated. Leading rusher TJ Thomas also graduated, along with receivers Jordan Brock and Jalen Royals. The defensive losses for Hillgrove may be more impactful than on offense. Second-team All-Region defensive lineman Darrell Ellis Jr. leaves and so did linebacker Diyontae Dallas. Jordan Abernathy, a fearful presence defensively, also graduated this past spring. In the secondary, second-team All-Region defensive back Andreas Keaton won’t return as he leaves for college. Special teamers Jose Chaires and Jonathan Grote graduated as well, leaving several gaps at many important positions for Hillgrove.

With a new head coach and some key pieces gone on both sides of the ball in 2021, Hillgrove may lose one or two more games than last season this year.

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REGION 1 - 7A

LOWNDES

AUG

Walton

Griffin

SEPT

Lake Gibson (FL)

SEPT

@ Lee County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 10

2 Losses

343

Points Scored Points Allowed

209

Head Coach: Jamey Dubose

WHO’S BACK With DuBose much more comfortable heading into his second season, expect that to translate to a more complete and improved Lowndes team. DuBose doesn’t have to spend the first month just learning the players—instead, he can focus on teaching the game to a talented crew of players. Don’t be surprised to see more of Tristan Bohler at the quarterback, despite having one of the most heralded signal callers to ever play at Lowndes in Jacurri Brown. The lack of returning experience at running back could prove to be tricky, although there’ll be enough surrounding talent to compensate. In fact, look for Lowndes to be the favorite in the always tough region 1-AAAAAAA.

34 | itgnext.com

OCT

Valdosta

Alcovy

OCT

Cedar Grove

OCT

@ Tift County

OCT

Colquitt County

OCT

@ Camden County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

Quarterback Jacurri Brown returns, but he’ll have backup Tristin Bohler by his side to spell Brown in certain situations. Most of the offensive line is returning, including Peyton Gunn, Kenneth Newsome, Jake Battle, and Andru Ray. Wide receiver Chase Belcher returns and gives Lowndes a major weapon on offense. Several running backs return, although DuBose concedes it will be a wide-open competition for playing time. “It’ll be running back by committee back there this year,” DuBose said. Jacarre “Smoke” Fleming should see significant playing time, as will Javon Reynolds. Garrett Hawkins and Erick Brown will also be in the mix. Defensively, Tyler Belcher returns at defensive back, while returning linebacker Mekhi Crawford could also see time at running back. Other returning starters on defense include defensive backs CJ Tomlin and Alijah McKeithern.

KEY LOSSES You can expect a team like Lowndes to be faced with the reality of losing good talent, and that’s no different this offseason. Head coach Jamey DuBose must find replacements for receivers Dominique Marshall, Jahiem James, Elijah Ellis, and Caleb Manning. “Those are some good ones,” says DuBose. Running backs Israel (IJ) Mitchell and Justin Lee have graduated, and DuBose says their loss will be felt. “They were two different runners, but so valuable with their skill set,” DuBose said. “They will be missed.” Other key losses include offensive linemen Thomas Barton and Chris Terrell. On defense, TJ Quinn, who, according to DuBose, was the team’s quarterback on defense, departs for the collegiate football world at Louisville. Thomas Davis, who gave opponents nightmares on Friday nights, has graduated, and will play for the “U” of Miami Hurricanes.

A region title and at least a playoff win.

There are reasons we are preferred.

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MARIETTA

AUG

Colquitt County

REGION 3 - 7A

SEPT

McEachern

Camden County

SEPT

Parkview

Brookwood

OCT

@ North Paulding

WHAT TO EXPECT Don’t expect a repeat of last year’s Marietta performance. This year’s team is loaded with talent from the receivers to the line, and to the rushing game. Expect the Marietta Blue Devils to contend for a region once again, if not state championship. Morgan does say his team could use a little more depth up front on the offensive line, but that’s a minor point. Marietta looked solid in their spring game victory over a River Ridge team that had a terrific 2020 season but was overmatched against the Blue Devils. Look for Marietta fans to have a lot to cheer about this season.

WHO’S BACK Almost everyone returns. “We return 19 starters from last year’s team,” said Morgan. The team has a lot of top returners coming back, according to Morgan. Morgan says many players are going to be definite playmakers and keys to getting Marietta back to its customary winning ways, unlike last year’s 3-win season. Marietta welcomes back its top four senior receivers: Christian Mathis, Camden Overton, Kamryn Perry, and Zuri Johnson. Senior dual-threat quarterback Tyler Hughes returns, and Morgan heaps praise on his quarterback, and for good reason. The rising senior has close to 3,200 yards passing and 35 passing touchdowns in his time at Marietta. Linebacker Daniel Martin is a 4-year starter returning.

The sky is the limit. Region championship could be just the start this season for Marietta.

36 | itgnext.com

OCT Hillgrove

OCT

@ Harrison

OCT

NOV

North Cobb

@ Walton

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of marietta-athletics.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

328

Losses Points Scored

402

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Richard Morgan

KEY LOSSES The good news for head coach Richard Morgan heading into the 2021 season is that his Blue Devils graduated very few seniors from last year’s team, and lost just three starters from a year ago, with all three coming from the offensive line. Graduated are King Hastings at left guard, Matt Castaldo at center, and tackle Clay Doyle. Most other seniors that have graduated played in reserve roles. That group consists of defensive back Jerohn Gordon, reserve running back/linebacker Levi Roberts, reserve receiver/defensive back Paul Harris. James Knox, a fullback/defensive end played some meaningful minutes in his time at Marietta, collecting 66 tackles with four sacks and a fumble recovery in 20 games.

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REGION 2 - 7A

AUG

Kell (Mercedes-Benz)

AUG

@ Grayson

SEPT

@ Marietta

MCEACHERN

SEPT

OCT

Hillgrove

Newton

Milton

Campbell

Newnan

WHAT TO EXPECT Last season marked one of the biggest drop offs in Georgia high school football as McEachern followed a 12-1 2019 campaign with only four wins in 2020. However, despite losing players to transfer once again this year, the Indians have a deep team that could return them to dominance in the future. Several players are entering their sophomore and junior years, and if they will remain with the Indians throughout their high school career, they could help further an already accomplished program. Expect to see flashes of this potential in 2021 against top-rated programs like Grayson and Milton. The combination of Archie and Bodiford in the backfield may prove too much for other teams to handle, and this could very well secure them a region title.

WHO’S BACK The future may be bright for the Indians. They return breakout star QB Bryce Archie and rising sophomore RB Makari Bodiford. Pass-catchers Kaleb Webb and Da’Twon Rouse also return in 2021 for McEacheron after combining for 293 yards in 2020. The offensive line will definitely improve with young stars like Jaylin Walton, Ivan Kynes, Jasmin Lowe, and Ovie Dubre among others. Defensively, the front seven will be much improved. Several players returning include Latrell Bullard, Drake Hatcher, Matthew Draper, Jace Ward, Renee Barber III, and Barrion Boyle Jr. In the secondary, Josh Grant, Justus Joseph, Marquez Green, and others will take over duties for the graduating seniors. Overall, the rising sophomore and rising junior classes at McEachern show a lot of promise, and that may be on display next year.

A huge turnaround could be in the books.

OCT

@ East Coweta

NOV

@ Pebblebrook

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of ajc.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

219

Losses Points Scored

330

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Franklin Stephens

KEY LOSSES Offensive losses are not large in number, but large in importance for the Indians. Backup RB Mekhi Crawley graduated and WR Sutton Smith has transferred to Walton. Leading receivers Caleb Brown and Johmanuel Arnold also graduated. Losses on both the offensive and defensive line are minimal but losing star LB Ese Dubre will certainly hurt in the front seven. Other linebackers will leave as well, including Jaylen Sistrunk, Zion Outlaw, Tyree Cummings, and Fabian Njika Jr. The secondary may be the hardest hit group though talent wise, as they lose Saveion Safford, Cameron James, Jalen Fairbanks, and Byron Foote.

ITG Next | 39

MILL CREEK

AUG

@ Parkview

Norcross

REGION 8 - 7A

SEPT

@ Dacula

SEPT

@ West Forsyth

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of MCHS Football via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record Wins

243 212

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Josh Lovelady

WHO’S BACK A handful of returning juniors will lead the group of returning contributors and starters from last year. That includes quarterback Hayden Clark, who threw for 794 yards and 8 touchdowns in 2020. One of his main targets will be returning wide receiver Caleb Downs, who will also see time at defensive back this season. Downs was a run, receiving, and defensive threat for head coach Josh Lovelady’s Hawks last year, with 31 rushes for 211 yards, and three touchdowns. He also added four catches for 81 yards and a touchdown from his receiver spot, and as a defensive back, Downs had 65 tackles plus four interceptions and 14 pass breakups. Brendan Jenkins will be another receiving target for Clark this season. Last year, he caught 45 passes for 698 yards and two touchdowns. Seniors Canton Wilhoit, an offensive lineman, and Gavin Guerra, linebacker, also return this year.

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SEPT Grayson

OCT

North Gwinnett

OCT

@ Mountain View

OCT

@ Newton

OCT

Collins Hill

NOV

@ Peachtree Ridge

WHAT TO EXPECT

With 10 returning starters, the Hawks are looking to expand on last year’s five-win season. The Hawks had powerhouse opponents Grayson and Norcross on the ropes, with each game against the defending state champs Rams and Blue Devils going to overtime. Despite losing, the games showed the Hawks could have easily been a seven-win team. But the Hawks had several true freshman and sophomores play meaningful minutes, and that game experience should prove to be beneficial this season. Mill Creek will have several returning starters back on the offense, including the offensive line, receiver, and quarterback. Clark is one of those aforementioned juniors who were counted on to play a lot last year, and if there’s any position where you welcome experience, its your quarterback. He started 8 of the 11 games last season. The Hawks will kick off the season against Parkview in the Corky Kell Classic.

KEY LOSSES The Hawks will miss one of the team’s biggest weapons in kicker/punter Brock Pellegrino, who has graduated. The special teams standout connected on 74 of 76 PAT attempts during his time as Mill Creek’s kicker and converted on 24 of 35 FG attempts, his longest kick being an impressive 53 yarder. He was also one of the best punters in the state, with 133 punts averaging 37.2 yards per punt. Pellegrino put 47 of those 133 punt attempts inside the 20-yard line. He is headed to West Georgia University. Other Hawks players who are leaving Mill Creek and are headed to the next level include receivers Emon Hill Jr., who signed with Kent State, linebacker Josiah Jordan, who is headed to Savannah State, Josh Battle, a three-year starter who will play at UT Chattanooga, and defensive ends Brayden Dudley and Prince Morgan. Despite missing most of last season with an injury, Dudley’s performance with the Hawks has landed him at West Virginia University. Morgan will attend Southern Illinois. Other impact players that will be missed include receivers Timmy Page, Noah Rogers, Brendan Jenkins, and Khamri Glover. Running backs Christian McIntyre and Malik Rice will also be missed.

Mill Creek lost some major talent and depth. Still expect a trip back to the quarterfinals, where they made it in 2019.

REGION 5 - 7A

AUG Hapeville

AUG

@ North Cobb

SEPT

Life Christian @ St. Joseph’s Academy (VA) Preparatory (PA)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Brandon Pham

overall record 11

347

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

151

@ McEachern

OCT Alpharetta

OCT

@ Etowah

OCT

@ Roswell

OCT

NOV

Woodstock

Cherokee

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

MILTON

Head Coach: Adam Clack

WHAT TO EXPECT According to Clack, the hardest thing that he and his staff will encounter this season is figuring out how to somehow manage the expectations that a team this talented is sure to bring. “Any time you have team loaded with talent like we do, with our potential, you don’t want to fall victim to that,” said Clack. That will be easier said than done, as Clack says this team will easily be the best collection of talent he’s ever had. Not only is this team super talented, but also it has a lot of “returning minutes and quarters” among its roster. “Almost every productive member of our team is returning this season,” Clack said. I’d say expectations are sky high at Milton heading into this season.

The Region 5-AAAAAAA Player of the Year and No.1 rated recruit in the 2023 class, Lebbeus Overton returns to give Milton a powerhouse of an edge rusher. He had 21.5 sacks last season and is only a junior. Another returning junior is standout defensive back/athlete Bryce Thornton. Both Overton and Thornton already have college recruiters knocking down their door, but they’re not alone. Left tackle Mo Clipper is a 6-foot-4-inch senior who returns and is committed to the University of Tennessee. Senior tight end Jack Nickel is a four-year starter for the Eagles and is still trying to decide on his college football home. He too has many offers. Senior quarterback Devin Farrell, a three-year starter at the signal caller position for Milton, will be back to run the offense for Clack. The dual-threat quarterback has committed to Virginia Tech. Lining up at running back will be two-year starter Jordan McDonald, who is a big back and 6-foot-2 inches tall. McDonald is also mulling over several offers. Finally, super sophomore receiver Debron Gatling, is one to watch as he returns this year to Milton. “He is going to be really special,” said Clack.

KEY LOSSES The Eagles lost a couple of defensive linemen and a key big guy over on the offensive side of the ball, but the lines remain intact for the most part, according to head coach Adam Clack. The offensive lineman not returning is left tackle Cameron Dye, who is headed to Georgia State University to play for the Panthers. The defense have two graduated linemen: Dayne Edwards and Zack Tumminia. Edwards registered 84 tackles during his time at Milton, including 7.5 sacks. He had a knack for the ball, coming up with three fumble recoveries. Receiver Matthew Evert left with 38 career receptions, good for 509 yards receiving and five touchdowns. He will now start his college football career with Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. First team All-Region kicker Jason Aussin has also graduated.

If the Eagles stay injury-free, then it’s hard to imagine this team not playing deep in the playoffs.

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REGION 4 - 7A

NEWTON

AUG

@ Hughes

AUG

@ Alcovy

SEPT Eastside

SEPT

@ McEachern

SEPT

Houston County

OCT Parkview

WHAT TO EXPECT There was promise for Newton in 2020, but the Rams fell short, winning only four games. Losing Nyland Green will be a huge blow to both sides of the football, but rising talent should fill his loss adequately. In a region that features Brookwood and Parkview in down years, Newton could seize the opportunity to be a second-seed at best. The Rams should have a well-developed passing attack and a front seven that can shut down opposing run games with relative ease. They could be a team that potentially upsets a high-ranked opponent in the first round of the state playoffs.

KEY LOSSES The most important losses come on the defensive side for the Rams. Newton won’t lose any players at QB or RB, but WR Nijay Willis graduated. Outside linebacker Eugene Tavares also graduated in 2020, and three-star safety Darius Green graduated after a very productive senior season. Green committed to Minnesota over 11 other potential offers. The biggest loss team-wide will be 4-star CB Nyland Green. He is ranked the second-best defensive back in the nation and committed to Georgia last December. Newton does not lose a lot of players, but they certainly lose a lot of talent.

The Rams make it to the first round of the playoffs and improve upon last season’s record by one game.

42 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Brookwood

OCT

Mill Creek

OCT

NOV

Grayson

@ South Gwinnett

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of covnews.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

114

Losses Points Scored

207

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Camiel Grant

WHO’S BACK Newton will certainly indulge in their returning stars. QB Jevarra Martin Jr. will return along with RB Romeo Carson. The receiving game will get a boost with Nolan McCamy at tight end. On defense, 4-star rising junior DE Justin Benton (is at IMG Academy now) 3-star DT/OT Elijah Zollicoffer is back for his senior season, as well as rising junior linebacker Olan Robinson, who will be a key presence. Additionally, both Jatavius Weaver and Audavion Collins will be lockdown corners in the secondary for the Rams.

NORCROSS

REGION 7 - 7A

AUG Hillgrove

AUG

@ Mill Creek

SEPT

@ East Coweta

SEPT

South Gwinnett

SEPT Dunwoody

SEPT

@ Meadowcreek

OCT Berkmar

OCT

@ Discovery

Duluth

NOV

@ Archer

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of gwinnettprepsports.com

WHAT TO EXPECT Norcross’s breakout season in 2020 was somewhat expected as the team featured senior-heavy talent along with a very favorable region schedule. It was the most wins for a Blue Devil team since they won state over rival North Gwinnett in 2013. While 2021 may not feature many losses, the team will be very different from last year. The Blue Devils will rely on the Brown-Poole connection and 4-star TE Luckie to score in the redzone. The linebacking corps will be strong as always, but the secondary may take some time to adjust and finally find its groove in region play against easier opponents.

KEY LOSSES Norcross loses a large yet successful senior class. It starts at the top with QB Mason Kaplan and running backs Jahni Clarke and Kaleb Jackson. Receivers Trey Goodman and Zion Alexander graduated and will continue their careers at the collegiate level. Up front, the Blue Devils will lose Billy Ochoa, Abel Aguirre, Tripp Miller, and Micah Green among other players. The losses don’t stop defensively. The front seven loses Kamren Lark, Jared Brooks, Zemetrick Larry, and Jalen Garner, all of whom combined for over 330 tackles in 2020. The secondary isn’t spared either, as Najee Chandler, Josh Graham, and Justin Dingle graduated. Reliable kicker Francisco Hernandez also graduates.

A 10-2 record with a first-round playoff win.

2020 STATS overall record 13

Wins 517

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

216

Head Coach: Keith Maloof

WHO’S BACK Despite all the losses, Norcross can rely on several talented stars like QB Javan Brown Jr., RB Christian Williams, and WR Nakai Poole. TE Lawson Luckie will also be a key target as a 4-star recruit. Brown and Poole have already established a strong connection through spring play and 7-on-7s. The blitz-heavy Blue Devil defense will return one of their best players, Zakye Barker, who accounted for 37 TFLs last season. Jarren Shaw, Myles Allen, and Jonathan Mathis will also be key contributors in larger roles. Norcross can rely on rising star DB Bryghton Peters next year in the secondary.

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ITG Next | 43

REGION 3 - 7A

NORTH COBB

AUG

SEPT

Buford

Milton

Alpharetta

@ Etowah

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of mdjonline.com

overall record 10

351

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

195

Head Coach: Shane Queen

WHAT TO EXPECT Head coach Shane Queen has been one of the main constants for North Cobb since being hired in 2006. Despite only four 10+ win seasons under his command, he has put the Warriors in a great position for success in 2021. North Cobb will be no short of talent, especially after the added transfers of Morrissette, Mbake, Stewart, and others. Their region has become a little tougher as other teams settle in, but the Warriors will still find a way to dominate. Expectations are at an all-time high, and a quarterfinals or semifinals berth is not out of the question. They will continue to lean on Singleton at QB, and he will pick apart defenses with new targets out wide.

44 | itgnext.com

North Gwinnett

OCT Harrison

OCT

@ Walton

OCT Hillgrove

OCT

@ Marietta

NOV

@ North Paulding

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The most important return offensively for the Warriors is rising star QB Malachi Singleton, who helped North Cobb win 10 games in 2020. The Warriors will also gain some transfers, including former Brookwood wide receivers De’Nylon Morrissette and Samuel Mbake. The future of the offensive line is also safe with rising juniors Marselle Felton and Robert Grigsby protecting Singleton in the pocket. On defense, first-team All-Region linebacker Josh Josephs will return and North Cobb will gain yet another Brookwood transfer in defensive back Andre Stewart. Despite all their losses to graduation, the Warriors will still prove a major threat in 7A.

KEY LOSSES The Warriors will lose a pair of solid running backs in Cam Cunningham and Zarrian Cook. They will also lose tight end Xavier Clark, a second-team All-Region selection. The receiving corps will take the biggest hit of any position group on the team, as Trevor Lovett, Cobe Singleton, Tray Curry, Jevon Johnson, and Christian Moss all have graduated. First-team all-region linemen Aiden Reyes and Aaron Hawkins have also graduated. In the front seven defensively, North Cobb will lose some stars in defensive end Kaleb Critten and LBs Jadyn Walker and Montrel Jenkins. The secondary will suffer the losses of two-way players like Singleton and Johnson, who also played at wide receiver.

Despite a rigorous schedule, overall record with nine wins in the regular season and a semifinals appearance.

REGION 8 - 7A

AUG

@ Hoover (AL)

AUG

Jones County

SEPT

@ Parkview

SEPT Lovejoy

SEPT

@ Archer

NORTH GWINNETT

SEPT

@ North Cobb

WHAT TO EXPECT The Bulldogs aren’t losing much in the run game, which should benefit them greatly in 2021. A new quarterback will have to step up and lead the offense, but this shouldn’t be too hard of a task since the Bulldogs rely more heavily on their rushing attack than they do on the passing game. The Bulldogs lost some standouts on defense, but they have some talented players coming back who are more than capable of having standout years of their own in 2021. The Bulldogs are set to perform similarly to how they did in 2020, but they could do even better if they are able to fill in some holes at quarterback, linebacker, and safety.

KEY LOSSES Quarterback Ashton Wood passed for 745 yards in 2020. On the ground, running back Barrett Carter added 429 yards and 10 touchdowns. Carter was the team’s second-leading rusher. Wide receiver Seth Anderson was the team’s leading receiver. He caught 32 passes for 432 yards. Defensively, linebacker Kemar Brown led the team in tackles with 75 total tackles. Defensive lineman Justin Watson tied for a team-high 12 sacks on the year. Safety Aaron Brebnor led the team in INTs with five.

WHO’S BACK The Bulldogs’ leading rusher is back in Marcus McFarlane. As a junior, he rushed for 633 yards and five touchdowns. Running backs Brinston Williams and Ethan Washington are back to contribute to the Bulldogs’ rushing attack. Williams rushed for 411 yards and five scores as a junior while Washington rushed for 382 yards and four scores as a sophomore. Defensive lineman Kayden McDonald was the team’s second-leading tackler (56) in 2020, tied for team-best in sacks (12), and was the leader in tackles for loss (29). Defensive back Kenan Holmes had one INT and six pass deflections as a sophomore.

OCT

@ Mill Creek

OCT

Collins Hill

OCT

@ Peachtree Ridge

NOV

Mountain View

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of North Gwinnett Football via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins 354

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

157

Head Coach: Bill Stewart The Bulldogs play in a tough classification, but they will fare well in 2021 because of the talent they have returning. They will make a run in the playoffs but won’t go all the way to state.

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REGION 3 - 7A

NORTH PAULDING

AUG

South Gwinnett

AUG

South Paulding

SEPT

@ Roswell

SEPT

@ Brookwood

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of northpauldingfootball.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

233

Losses Points Scored

340

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Don Stark

WHO’S BACK North Paulding will need some returning players to step up for them to win more games than in 2020. They will have the option of two quarterbacks in Boone Anderson or Garrett Creasy, and they will likely lean on Jaylen Poe or Nathan O’Reilly at running back. The front seven defensively will get some help with younger linebackers like Matheos Veiga, Chase Smith, and Dillon Williams. The secondary may improve when compared to 2020, as Harry Brooks, Hayden Smith, and Jeremiah Ray return.

46 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Newnan

OCT Marietta

OCT

@ Harrison

OCT Walton

OCT

@ Hillgrove

NOV North Cobb

WHAT TO EXPECT 2020 marked a tie for the lowest win total in Wolfpack history. North Paulding had a very tough schedule that will repeat itself this year, so a low win total may be in store for 2021 as well. Losing a lot of impactful seniors at key skill positions may hurt, but it will be up to the younger players to overturn recent fate. North Paulding may not see the playoffs again for a while with the current region alignment, but they can certainly try to pick up some key region and non-region wins to boost confidence. In previous years, they were almost guaranteed a region win against Kennesaw Mountain or another weak region opponent, but their new region is extremely unforgiving.

KEY LOSSES North Paulding’s losses are numerous. Second-team all-region quarterback Kyle Bird has graduated, leaving a hole at an important position offensively. Running backs Preston Rogers and Xavier Crockett have also graduated. Two-way players in (Kaden Garner?) and Tyler Weber will impact both the receiving game and the secondary. The trenches on both sides of the football will also suffer some losses. Cole Hamamoto, Cal Bentley, Andrew Perez, Carter Strong, and Brian Nyangi are just some of the many players who have graduated from the Wolfpack. Linebackers Tyler Davis and Jacob Amos will have to be replaced and so will first-team All-Region defensive back LaTrell Newsome.

With one of the most difficult schedules of any team in the state, the Wolfpack may lose one or two more games in 2021 than it did last season.

MILTON DEFENSIVE LINEMAN

Top Offers

ITG Next | 47

PARKVIEW

AUG

Mill Creek

@ Mountain View

REGION 4 - 7A

SEPT

North Gwinnett

SEPT Loganville

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography by: Brandon Pham

overall record 8

337

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

260

Head Coach: Eric Godfree

WHO’S BACK This season, the Panthers will bring back quarterback Colin Houck, and only being a junior this season, he looks to add on more experience. Houck will of course be asked to do a lot more this season, without his top playmakers from last season. Houck will look to Zion Taylor to have a breakout year, as he is the only receiver who caught a touchdown that is still on the roster from last season. Parkview’s offensive line will also be a unit to watch. Guard Johnnie Brown, who is a force upfront at 6-feet-4-inches and 335lbs, and the rest of the offensive line will need to help out the Panthers’ young running backs if they want to make another push to the playoffs.

48 | itgnext.com

@ Marietta

SEPT

@ Tucker

OCT

@ Newton

OCT Grayson

OCT

@ South Gwinnett

NOV Brookwood

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The Panthers lost a lot of talent from last season and their production will be missed, maybe even impossible to replicate with the young group they have going into this season. Expect this group to start slow as they build experience, and this may hurt them down the stretch. Unless these young players get up to speed quickly, they are faced with a tough region schedule that will do them no favors and will likely cause them to lose more often than this program is used to. Quarterback Houck will likely play well, but he will need to step up big and lead this inexperienced offense to win some of these tough games on their schedule.

KEY LOSSES The Panthers offense lost both leading rushers from last season. Cody Brown and Tyler Curtis ran the ball well, combining for over 2,200 yards and 23 touchdowns, making them difficult to replace going into this season. Brown committed to The University of Miami. Parkview also lost their leading receiver from last season in Jared Brown, who caught 50 passes and 12 touchdowns. Jared Brown committed to Coastal Carolina University. No other receiver caught more than three touchdowns for the Panthers last season, making him another key loss to their offense. On the defensive side of the ball, Parkview lost one of its best players, Quincy Bryant, who will be playing for Wake Forest in the fall.

The Panthers may lose a couple of more games than they did last season, unless this young group comes out and surprises everyone.

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REGION 8 - 7A

PEACHTREE RIDGE

AUG

@ Pebblebrook

SEPT Discovery

SEPT

@ Centennial

SEPT

Lanier

Campbell

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of Peachtree Ridge via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record Wins

173

Losses Points Scored

282

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Reggie Stancil

WHO’S BACK Running back Brandon Cade will return to the Lions’ backfield in 2021. Cade rushed for 139 yards on 25 carries to help the Lions win their first season-opener since 2016. Offensive linemen Jason Berko is a player the Lions offense relied on heavily to pass block and open holes for running backs in 2020. He is the only returning starting offensive lineman from last year. Tight end Allante Burley will be back to help the Lions score points in 2021. He will also play on the other side of the ball at defensive end. Kicker Eddie Park will be returning for his senior season.

50 | itgnext.com

SEPT

OCT

@ Collins Hill

OCT

@ South Gwinnett

OCT

North Gwinnett

OCT

@ Mountain View

NOV Mill Creek

WHAT TO EXPECT The Lions struggled to win last season. Their wins came in tight games and their losses were decisive. Things could end up getting worse in Suwanee before they get better as Peachtree Ridge enters another rebuilding season. Losing almost the entire offensive line, especially standouts like Amari Mcneill and Alex Carman, is going to haunt the Lions in 2021. On top of that, Nick Best and Kyle Kingsbury have left a big hole to fill at quarterback. Going up against teams like Collins Hill and North Gwinnett is going to be tough this season. Look for the Lions to struggle as they try and put the pieces back together on offense.

KEY LOSSES The lions are losing two standout offensive linemen in 2021. They are Amari Mcneill and Alex Carman. Mcneill was named First Team All-State by Georgia Preps and Second Team All-State by MaxPreps. He has signed a letter of intent to play football at the University of Tennessee. Mcneillo (Mcneill?) played on both sides of the ball at Peachtree Ridge. Carman, who is six-feet-two, 290 pounds, has signed with Davidson College. Quarterback Kyle Kingsbury has graduated. Kingsbury threw for over 1,000 yards in his last two seasons and received six scholarship offers to play in college. Quarterback Nick Best has also graduated. Best saw playing time in some games as a sophomore when his number was called to replace the starting quarterback at the time. Best led the Lions to their first season-opening win since 2016 last season.

The lions have lost a lot of talent—likely too much. Aside from that, they just so happen to be in a region that should be among the toughest in Georgia this year. Winning will not be easy in 2021. Peachtree Ridge may lose a few more games this season than it did in 2020.

ROSWELL

REGION 5 - 7A

AUG

South Forsyth

AUG

@ Centennial

SEPT

North Paulding

SEPT Campbell

SEPT

@ Walton

OCT Etowah

OCT

@ Cherokee

Milton

OCT

NOV

@ Alpharetta

@ Woodstock

WHAT TO EXPECT

Written by: Nick Anschultz Photo courtesy of Roswell High School Football via Facebook

Last season, the Roswell Hornets finished with an overall record of 8-3. After starting out the year with six straight wins, Roswell lost back-to-back games before winning its regular season finale against Woodstock. In the playoffs, the Hornets advanced through the first round of the Class AAAAAAA playoffs but fell in the second round to Norcross to put an end to their season. As Roswell prepares for the up coming 2021 season, the expectations are still the same. That goal is making it back to the postseason. But this season, Prewett said he is hoping the Hornets can stick around a little longer in the playoffs than last year. With two of its best offensive players gone as well as an entire special teams unit, Roswell will be looking for some younger talent to step up and fill the voids left by the graduating seniors. The Hornets do, however, get some key pieces back from last year’s team, including their starting quarterback and running back as well as some standout defensive players. With a solid group of talent back this season, it’ll be interesting to see if Roswell can take that next step.

2020 STATS

WHO’S BACK

While the Hornets lose some key players from their 2020 squad, there are multiple returning starters from last year back in 2021. Arguably, the biggest returners on the offensive side are senior quarterback Robbie Roper and senior running back/wide receiver Ryan Hill II. Roper passed for over 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns a year ago while Hill II had close to 900 yards rushing and seven touchdowns on the ground. Also back this season for Roswell is junior tight end Zeke Moore. Prewett said that he is used everywhere on the field and does a “good job [of] blocking.” On defense, star cornerback Ethan Nation is back for his junior season after recording 19 tackles and a state-best eight interceptions last year. Also returning in 2021 on this side of the ball are senior linebackers Case Barrett and Riley Slaughter as well as senior defensive linemen Will Baskin and sophomore Chase Morrison. Prewett described Morrison as a “big kid,” and said he started in 11 games last season for the Hornets.

This is a team that loses some important players on both sides of the ball from a year ago. But with a solid group of athletes back in 2021, Roswell should be back in the postseason come November.

overall record 8

Wins

3 Losses

324

Points Scored Points Allowed

227

Head Coach: Chris Prewett

KEY LOSSES Roswell loses quite a few star players from last year’s team heading into the 2021 season. Perhaps one of the biggest losses comes on special teams, where head coach Chris Prewett said the Hornets will have to replace everybody on this side of the ball from a year ago, including kicker Caden Long. Additionally, two of Roswell’s top offensive players are also gone in 2021. Those guys are wide receivers Marquis Willis (Northeast Georgia Prep Academy) and Michael Fitzgerald II (Massachusetts). The two wideouts combined for over 1,000 yards receiving last season and leave quite the hole to fill in this position. On the defensive side, the Hornets will be without linebacker Evan Plunkett, who recorded 60 tackles during his senior season and was named defensive MVP for Region 5-7A in 2020, according to Prewett.

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REGION 1 - 7A

TIFT COUNTY

AUG

Crisp County

AUG

SEPT

Dutchtown

Banneker

SEPT

Appling County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

Irwin County

SEPT

OCT

Worth County

@ Valdosta

overall record 8

158

Losses Points Scored

241

Points Allowed

Lowndes

OCT

Camden County

OCT

@ Colquitt County

With a new head coach coming in, there remains a lot of questions about Tift’s chances in 2021. Head coach Noel Dean was hired to replace coach Anders, and while it’s known that Dean enjoyed success while coaching in Michigan, there’s not much else to go on. What type of offense will coach Dean run seems to be the biggest question mark right now among the Tift faithful? What type of defense will he employ at Tift? Those are the biggest questions surrounding Tift County’s football program heading into the start of the Noel Dean era.

KEY LOSSES

Head Coach: Noel Dean

WHO’S BACK When factoring in the top returning playmakers for Tift County this season, the conversation starts with Tyre West, considered by many observers as the top defensive player in perhaps the entire state. The impact player, who has committed to UGA, had 39 tackles last season along with eight sacks. Last season’s part time starting quarterback Tyler Parker will return as a two way threat once again, as quarterback and as a receiver.Running back Zach Carter will be back to to give the Devils a solid run threat out of the backfield, and should get plenty of chances to show his stuff in what is expected to be a run heavy offense under new head coach Noel Dean.

Tift County says goodbye to head coach Ashley Anders, who was with the Devils for six seasons. Anders has joined the Colquitt staff as an assistant. The players of Tift will miss a group of hard-nosed defenders who had a knack for getting to the football. They are linebacker JD Bengston, defensive end Cade Anders, and defensive linemen Charles King and Keyshawn Jones. Anders will also be missed on the offensive side of the ball, where he played tight end for the Blue Devils. Another multi-use player for the Blue Devils was Wendell McClain, who played receiver on offense, was active in the defensive backfield as a safety and corner, and also played special teams where he returned kicks. Other offensive playmakers that will be missed are running back Chrishon Stephens and kicker Pedro Mendoza.

Blue Devil fans will have to be patient. Tift County may lose a few games again in 2021.

Where New And Used Vehicles Cost Less 52 | itgnext.com

OCT

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 2 Wins

SEPT

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REGION 3 - 7A

WALTON

AUG

@ Lowndes

@ Pope

SEPT

@ Brookwood

West Forsyth

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of hudl.com

overall record Wins

315 286

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Daniel Brunner

WHAT TO EXPECT This season is all about promise for the Raiders. They showed early glimpses of their potential in a 63-24 win over Alpharetta in their spring game back in May. Walton had some of its best seasons in 2017 and 2018 as they combined for 21 wins. Since then, they’ve only won six games in each following year. They have the pieces for a deep playoff run this year and field a very well rounded team with talent spread deep. Expect them to lean on the pass game with whichever QB they decide to proceed with. Defensively, their talented secondary will likely come through big and force opposing offense to test their run defense instead.

54 | itgnext.com

Roswell

OCT

@ Hillgrove

OCT

North Cobb

OCT

@ North Paulding

OCT

NOV

Harrison

Marietta

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 6

SEPT

While losing several key players may seem worrying, Walton has many returning studs. They have two excellent QBs in Zak Rozsman and Jeremy Hecklinski. Running back Braylen Stokes already has experience fielding carries after Djaha went down with injury last year. Receivers Rawson MacNeill and Nate Lyons will aid the passing attack. The offensive line shows a lot of promise as well, with 3-star lineman Cason Henry returning. On the other side of the ball, the Raiders can show off Eamon Cummins and Jalen Bethley, who provided a strong presence up front in 2020. The secondary may be the greatest strength in terms of talent for Walton next year, as Angelo Brown Jr., Marcus Allen, Will Jordan, and Cade Thompson return.

KEY LOSSES While the Raiders won’t have any losses at the quarterback position, they will lose Kenny Djaha at running back, Nic Hester at wide receiver, and Stone McKnight at tight end. Losing All-Region linemen in Tannor Daniels and Patrick O’Connell will certainly not help, but Walton has talent in place to serve as adequate replacements. Defensively, the Raiders will lose Eric Won, Titus McBride, and Eric Zeiher from their front seven. Jonathan Chesser also graduated from the defensive end position. The secondary may also take a hit, as Austin Eldred, Nic Hester, and Ryan Polinski graduated. Reliable kicker Conor Cummins will also leave to continue his career at Kennesaw State.

I predict the Raiders to make it to the quarterfinals.

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Written by: Dhruv Mohan

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS RJ Johnson Westlake 3,197 YDs

Justin Johnson Central Gwinnett 2,282 YDS

Carson Lathem River Ridge 1,789 YDS

Brayden Mauldin Paulding County 1,572 YDS

Amehre Morrison River Ridge 1,958 YDS

Ree Simmons Brunswick 1,176 YDS

Donovan Hoskins Alexander 1,142 YDS

Jayden Ponder Allatoona 1,068 YDS

TW: RJ JOHNSON

mdjonline.com

GAMES TO WATCH Langston Hughes @ Allatoona

Carrollton @ Rome

Lee County @ Valdosta

Despite losing several key pieces of their 2020 undefeated regular season and quarterfinals appearance team, Allatoona and their stifling defense will be back with leading tackler Vinnie Canosa. Running back Jayden Ponder has proven that he can carry the offense on his back. Langston Hughes will be one of the teams to watch in 6A for 2021. They return many starters on both sides of the football and are a prime candidate to make a deep playoff run. While Langston Hughes may hold the upper hand on paper, this is an early-season game on the road for them, adding in a factor of uncertainty. This could very well be one of the games of the year.

In last year’s matchup, Carrollton won by 22. However, this year will be different. Rome is a very young team with flourishing talent and Carrollton is losing several key playmakers like Christian Lett, Chaz Chambliss, and David Johns. This will be a marquee matchup that could revive a rivalry that has quickly been rising up the ranks statewide. For Rome, winning this game can be a shot of confidence as they harbor a young team through the rest of the season. These Carrollton-Rome matchups will only get more interesting from here on out.

Lee County has picked up the pace in this series. After losing eight straight to the Wildcats, the Trojans have won three in row from 2018 until now. Lee County may have an advantage once again in 2021 facing a Valdosta team ravaged with sanctions and uncertainty. However, this could potentially be a trap game as well. With this being the last regular season game prior to playoffs, Valdosta could catch Lee County by surprise and pick up a key region win that may bump the Trojans down the standings. Lee County should not sleep on Valdosta in 2021.

56 | itgnext.com

IMPACT CHANGES Tucker has found a new head coach after Bryan Lamar left for South Gwinnett. James Thompson will now be in charge of managing a high-potential program stuck in a very talented region. Transfers are plenty in 6A, and Johns Creek is no short of them. The Gladiators have received a lot of incoming transfers, especially at skill positions such as quarterback. Expect them to turn heads statewide but not win a title. Lastly, and most importantly, is the situation in Valdosta. Interim coach Shelton Felton will right the ship for the Wildcats this season, as they will play a 10-game regular season with no postseason due to recruiting violations. It has been a wild offseason for Valdosta, which also saw its former head coach Rush Propst be removed from his position amidst the allegations back in April. It should be interesting to see how the season transpires for the Wildcats.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Shakai Woods

Robert Lockhart III

Douglas County 146 TKS

Langston Hughes 681 YDs

Gannon Weathersby

Jackson Head

Langston Hughes 145 TKS

River Ridge 657 YDs

Michael Watson II

Frantzyr Chardavoine

Langston Hughes 128 TKS

Paulding County 622 YDs

Reese Scott

Brian Bradley

Lanier 528 YDs

River Ridge 118 TKS

TW: Shakai Woods

hudl.com

TOP TEN RANKINGS 6A

2 Buford

Lee County

Westlake

7 Carrollton

Rome

River Ridge

Langston Hughes

9 Johns Creek

5 Allatoona

10 Richmond Hill

ITG Next | 57

ALLATOONA

AUG

Harrison

Hughes

REGION 6 - 6A

SEPT

Kennesaw Mountain

SEPT

@ South Cobb

SEPT Osborne

SEPT

@ Wheeler

WHAT TO EXPECT Despite the recent run of success, Varner says he thinks this season could be challenge for his Bucs team, especially early in the season. “It may take a few games for some our younger guys to get in the swing of things,” said Varner. He also said the fact that the team will be starting a new quarterback is always a challenge. “Anytime you start off with a different quarterback, that always makes it tough,” he said. Still, despite inexperience along the offensive and defensive lines, look for Allatoona to be right where they always are come crunch time, which is in the mix. Varner has established a program that expects only the best out of his players, and that will be the case this season. Look for Christian and Canosa to serve as the leaders on and off the field to keep things headed in the right direction.

KEY LOSSES The Bucs will lose a lot from last year’s quarterfinals squad that only lost once during the season. One of the biggest losses is All-State cornerback Brett Blomquist. He leaves behind an impressive resume that included 12 interceptions, six fumble recoveries, and 116 total tackles over his career at Allatoona. Twins and defensive mates Hunter and Fisher Paulsen are not returning, having graduated. Head coach Gary Varner says in addition to their ability, the twins’ on the field smarts will be missed. “Those two were our play-callers on defense,” said the head coach. Allatoona will practically lose its entire defensive line, along with four of five offensive line players. Quarterback Elan Hall, who threw for just over 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns during his time as the Bucs signal caller, has graduated. His main target was wideout Troy Glenn, who also departs and will be furthering his career at Northeast Georgia Prep Academy.

Another great season. No slowing down these Bucs.

58 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Sprayberry

OCT @ Kell

OCT

NOV

Lassiter

Pope

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of thebrunswicknews.com

2020 STATS overall record 11

Wins 349

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

104

Head Coach: Gary Varner

WHO’S BACK Returning to lead the defense will be junior linebacker Vinnie Canosa, who was the first freshman in school history to start for the Buccaneers. He was an All-Region and All-State selection last season as a sophomore. Varner says Canosa is receiving a great deal of attention from Division I and mid-major schools and will be counted on heavily this season. A couple of senior defensive backs will return to add to the returning talent on defense. They are Ty Thompson and safety Caleb Moore, who have both been offered by the service academies to play football. Offensively, senior tight end Bennett Christian will give the Buccaneers a big-time weapon, both as a blocker and receiving target. The senior is committed to Ohio State. Another standout player for Allatoona is senior cornerback Levi Brown, who has racked up a handful of offers from colleges that include Kennesaw State, Wofford and Holy Cross.

REGION 2 - 6A

AUG

Westside (Macon)

AUG

SEPT

@ Liberty County

@ West Laurens

SEPT

@ Appling County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

@ Richmond Hill

OCT

Glynn Academy

OCT Statesboro

OCT

Effingham County

OCT

@ Brunswick

NOV

@ South Effingham

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 1 Ties

SEPT

BRADWELL INSTITUTE

Losses Points Scored

217

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Deshon Brock

WHO’S BACK Standout outside linebacker Kahlil Latimer will be back to lead a solid duo of returning linebackers for Bradwell Institute. He is getting several offers, including the University of Florida. The other returning linebacker is Elijah Leiataua, a senior who will also line up at running back. Defensive ends Mikah Perry and Tyler Jones will add to the defensive talent coming back in 2021. Over on the offense, running back Michael Prince and senior receiver Elijah Melford will be back. Melford could expect play time as defensive back this season, also.

Brock will change up the offense to reflect a more up-tempo look, but he understands that there will be a learning curve. “We will have to really rely on our defense—especially early on—while the offense gets acclimated to the new scheme we’ll introduce,” Brock said. The coach reiterates the need for a new quarterback in 2021. “We will need someone to run the offense, and that’s going to probably take someone with a little experience,” said Brock. That’s a luxury that the new head coach doesn’t have just yet. Look for the Tigers to shoot for .500.

KEY LOSSES The Tigers lose head coach Kyle Adkins, who steps away after spending two seasons at Bradwell. The Tigers new head coach is Deshon Brock, who arrives from Mitchell County. As far as the players, Bradwell Institute must find a way to replace starting quarterback and strong safety Jahki Newton. The one-year starter threw for 371 yards and five touchdowns while rushing for 419 yards and a touchdown. Finding a new quarterback is at the top of the list for Brock. “We have got to find the right quarterback,” said the new head coach. The team must also find a new center with the departure of three-year starter Cameron Stephenson. Tight end Connor Logan is graduated, as is twoyear starter at outside linebacker Jeremiah Johnson.

New Coach, new system.

ITG Next | 59

REGION 2 - 6A

BRUNSWICK

AUG

Pierce County

AUG

SEPT

@ McIntosh @ New County Academy Hampstead

SEPT

@ Islands

SEPT

Glynn Academy

OCT

South Effingham

WHO’S BACK

Brunswick has a lot of returning talent including a staple of running backs that will give the Pirates a solid running game. This includes Chuckobe Hill, a senior running back who, despite playing with an injury, finished with 515 yards rushing and 9 touchdowns last year. Hill showed what he can do when healthy, when he rushed for 1058 yards two seasons ago, during his sophomore year but hurt his knee last season. Pender says he expects Hill to be fully recovered this season. He’ll be joined in the backfield by Ree Simmons and Leon Charlton. The Pirates will have a solid core of returning linemen to run behind in 2021, led by senior Kanaya Charlton, who is receiving several Division I offers and will be the leader on the interior for Pender’s Pirates. Another talented lineman is junior Quan Gibson, who will also see time at nose guard on defense. Skill players Kevin Thomas and J’Maun Weldon will be back at the receiver position. The Pirates have picked up transfer ATH Jayden Drayton, who moved in from Glynn Academy. Pender says they will put the junior to work right away in the Brunswick offense. “We will put the ball in his hands as much as possible,” says Pender. Defensively, Kashawn Thomas returns at tackle, along with Jameer Lang and strong safety Ivan Johnson.

KEY LOSSES

Coach Sean Pender will have to find a way to replace some key pieces this season. That includes the top two receivers: Tyrease Jones and Xavier Bean. Jones is headed to Savanah State. The team also lost starting quarterback KJ Lee and linebacker AJ Wilson, who are both headed to Georgia Military College. The team’s biggest losses will be the departure of last year’s starting linebackers. Pender says that will be the biggest challenge in the offseason. “We’ve got to replace some really good players at the linebacker position,” said Pender. These players include the team’s leading tackler from last season Cameron Crump, as well as AJ Wilson, Bryce Morris, and Zane Rosenbaum. Wilson is headed to Georgia Military College. Offensive lineman Caleb Cook has graduated and will continue his playing career collegiately at Georgia Southern.

This could be the year at Brunswick. I’ll go with an 11-2 record and run to the semifinals this season.

60 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Statesboro

OCT

Richmond Hill

OCT

Bradwell Institute

NOV

@ Effingham County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins 346

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

221

Head Coach: Sean Pender

WHAT TO EXPECT This could be Pender’s most talented team at Brunswick, and the coach doesn’t hide his excitement or expectations for his squad this year. “We have an opportunity to do something special this season,” Pender, who will be starting his fifth year at the helm of the Brunswick team, said. “We expect to make a run at the region championship this year.” It’s not too difficult to understand why Pender is so excited. His Brunswick team not only has a ton of talent returning on both sides of the ball but the experience as well.

PARKVIEW WIDE RECEIVER

Top Offers

ITG Next | 61

REGION 8 - 6A

BUFORD

AUG

@ North Cobb

AUG

@ Clarke Central

SEPT

Myers Park (NC)

Chaminade -Madonna (FL)

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of Buford Football via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record 13

Wins

1 Losses

570

Points Scored Points Allowed

137

Head Coach: Bryant Appling

WHAT TO EXPECT The Wolves have lost a lot of excellent talent from their 2020 state championship-winning team. The Wolves’ offense scored almost 600 points while their defense allowed only 137 points. However, the players returning in 2021 will make sure Buford is a force to be reckon with once again. “We should go in and have a chance to win every game,” Appling said. “We have a lot of experience everywhere except the offensive line.” If the Wolves can fill the holes left in their offensive line, they will have a dangerous offense in 2021. According to Appling, the team doesn’t put the state championship game in mind until later in the season.

62 | itgnext.com

SEPT

@ Central Gwinnett

OCT

Habersham Central

OCT

Shiloh

Lanier

OCT

@ Winder -Barrow

NOV

@ Dacula

WHO’S BACK The Wolves have two running backs who are committed to play football at Division I programs. Running back Victor Venn is committed to the University of Colorado and running back CJ Clinkscales is committed to Boston College. There will be two quarterbacks getting some snaps under center that head coach Bryant Appling is excited about. Quarterback Juan Daniels is a rising senior, and quarterback Dylan Wittke is a rising junior. Offensive lineman Jackson Favors is the only returning offensive lineman who started in 2020. Defensive back/wide receiver Isaiah Bond is committed to Florida. Safety/wide receiver Jake Pope Jr. hasn’t committed yet, but he is a highly recruited senior. Another player Appling is excited about going into 2021 is kicker Alejandro Mata.

KEY LOSSES The Wolves will be without four of their five starting offensive linemen from 2020. Overall, 12 players from last year’s state championship-winning team will be moving on to play college football in 2021. OL Jacob Smith will play at West Point, OL Caleb Archer will play at Elon, RB Gabe Ervin will play at Nebraska, LB Tommy Beuglas will play at Furman, CB Boyd Farmer will play at the University of Charlotte, CB Malik Williams will play at Nebraska, LB Nick Perry will play at Charleston Southern, FB Caden Williams will play at Middle Tennessee State, DL Malik Cunningham will play at Reinhardt, DL Matthew Alexander will play at Central Florida and wide receiver/safety Amari Wansley will play at Florida Atlantic.

The Wolves have the talent and experience to become back-to-back state champions, or at least make a deep run in the playoffs. Record: 12-1

ITG Next | 63

CARROLLTON

AUG

New Manchester

REGION 5 - 6A

AUG

SEPT

Newnan

Jonesboro

@ Dalton

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: ITG Next

overall record 9

379

@ Rome

OCT

South Paulding

OCT

@ Paulding County

OCT

East Paulding

OCT Alexander

NOV

@ Douglas County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

2 Losses Points Scored

With Sean Calhoun leaving, Carrollton welcomes Joey King as the team’s new head coach. He was a previous assistant under former head coach Rayvan Teague and comes to the Trojans from USF, where he served as the tight ends coach. Despite losing some talented playmakers from last year’s team, Carrollton should have enough returning talent to make another run at the Region 5-6A title and a top seed in the playoffs. Morris returning to the team is huge, and he’ll raise the level of play around him this year. Carrollton has become one of the steadier programs over the past decade, and there’s no reason to expect any major fall off this season.

Points Allowed

196

Head Coach: Joey King

WHO’S BACK While the Trojans do lose some good players, they’ll also return some talented athletes. Returning to Carrollton after having left a year ago is QB MJ Morris. He’ll be able to step right back into the starting role after McCauley left to return to his home state. Morris has already committed to North Carolina State, but he’ll run the Trojans offense in his final season as one of the top high school dual-threat QBs in the country. His top targets will be seniors Ace Williamson, who was a First Team All-Region player last year, and Terrell Carmichael. Both players will be primary receivers, but can also return kicks and punts. RB Keshawn Ridley will be a primary threat out of the Trojans’ backfield this season. He has 550 yards rushing with eight touchdowns over the last two seasons while sharing the load. Ridley was an All-Region Honorable Mention last season. Carrollton will also have one of the top long snappers around, as senior Chris Cutlip returns. He is rated as a four-star long snapper by Kohl’s Kicking Camp. 64 | itgnext.com

KEY LOSSES Gone is head coach Sean Calhoun, who led the Trojans to 51 wins in just five seasons, including region championships in 2019 and 2020 and trips to the quarterfinals every season. The list of players lost to graduation ranks among the who’s who of top talent in the state. Gone is OLB Chaz Chambliss, who is enrolled and already involved in drills at Georgia. Fellow linebacker Jared Nedd has also left for the world of college football, as he’ll play for the Memphis Tigers. Defensive lineman Kevin Zachary, whose offers included Georgia, South Carolina, Oklahoma, and the University of Florida, signed with Liberty University. Offensive lineman Lyndon Cooper signed with NC State. Receiver Grant Briscoe will not return, joining Chambliss at UGA, but not on the football team. Briscoe is a champion pole-vaulter and will join the UGA track team. Carrollton will also have to replace kicker Dameon Dominquez, who connected on nine of 13 FG attempts while at Carrollton, including a long of 49 yards. He also went 36 for 39 on PATs. QB James McCauley, who came to Carrollton last season from New York after concerns about his team’s season being cancelled, has transferred back to his former school, Archbishop Stepinac.

Carrollton does what Carrollton always does: win football games. This year will be another solid season.

REGION 5 - 6A

AUG

@ Calhoun

Ridgeland

SEPT

@ North Forsyth

Carrollton

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of dailycitizen.news

overall record 2

181 227

South Paulding

OCT

@ Rome

OCT Alexander

OCT

@ Douglas County

OCT

@ Paulding County

NOV

East Paulding

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

OCT

DALTON

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Kit Carpenter

WHO’S BACK

As a junior, quarterback Ashton Blackwell threw for 1,044 yards and seven touchdowns. Blackwell added 403 yards and six touchdowns on the ground. Running back Tyson Greenwade rushed for 162 yards and a score as a sophomore. The team’s leading receiver was Karim Page who caught 29 passes for 453 yards and four touchdowns. Running back Luke Blanchard recorded 288 yards receiving and four touchdowns. Defensive back Brady Pendley recorded 46 total tackles and two interceptions. Linebacker Bryson Benton recorded 44 total tackles. Linebacker Brock Johnson recorded 84 total tackles. Johnson and defensive back Bentley Myers both recorded an interception in 2021.

The Catamounts backfield is taking a hit with the loss of running back Maurice Howard, but the return of the team’s leading passer and second-leading rusher, quarterback Ashton Blackwell, will help ease the pain for Dalton’s offense. Look for RB Greenwade to take on a bigger role this year and get a lot more carries. The Catamounts had some young receivers in 2020. This year, Karim Page is back to lead the group and help Blackwell be a force with the team’s passing game. Some excellent defensive players have moved on, but there are plenty of players coming back who can fill their shoes. Look for DB Pendley and LB Johnson to lead the team’s fresh-faced defense in 2021.

KEY LOSSES The Catamounts are losing their leading rusher in running back Maurice Howard. Howard rushed for 678 yards and six touchdowns in 2020. Offensive lineman Ti Thurman was All-Area his senior year. Additionally, the team’s top three leading tacklers from 2020 were all seniors: All-Area defensive back Parker Adams recorded 109 total tackles and three interceptions, linebacker Mauricio Quintero recorded 108 total tackles, and linebacker/defensive back Caleb Hernandez recorded 108 total tackles and three sacks last season. Defensive back AJ Hernandez recorded 50 total tackles and three interceptions, and defensive back Fuller Vineyard recorded 42 total tackles and an interception in their last season as Catamounts.

The Catamounts struggled in 2020, but with the talent they have coming back and the added experience of the starters, Dalton may win a few more games than they did last season in 2021.

ITG Next | 65

REGION 3 - 6A

EVANS

AUG

Cross Creek

AUG

@ Hephzibah

SEPT

@ Harlem

SEPT

Richmond Academy

SEPT

@ Washington County

OCT Grovetown

WHAT TO EXPECT

OCT

Lakeside (Evans)

Offensively, the biggest loss may be running back Jofranstar Graham, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and 18 TDs. The offensive line will take some hits too. Ervin Davis, Connor Young, Jackson Scott, and Christian Rodriquez all have graduated. On the defensive side, the Knights lose their top four tacklers from 2020: Cortavious Catchings, Jayden Burckhalter, Hagan Walker, and Adrian Jenkins. The first three listed players are all linebackers, so those graduations will definitely leave a mark. In the secondary, Caleb Fleming will head out with a 2020 senior season in which he snagged two interceptions. Senior kicker Ryan Geesler, who was the team’s fifth-leading scorer, has also graduated.

Despite the defensive losses, I predict a 10-2 season and a second-round playoff appearance for a Knights squad with a relatively easy regular season schedule.

66 | itgnext.com

@ Heritage (Conyers)

OCT

Rockdale County

NOV

@ Alcovy

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of hudl.com

Recent success has not been hard to find for Evans. They have made the playoffs in each of the last five seasons and won in their region three of the past four years. However, with head coach Lemuel Lackey being replaced in 2021 by Barrett Davis, nothing is guaranteed. Losing their main workhorse offensively, Jofranstar Graham, will also make the path to success a little more difficult. Wins QB Jackson’s dual-threat skills will be more important as ever, and the Knights will figure to rely on him a lot more, much like Lowndes High School leans on Jacurri Brown. The defense loses a lot of contributing starters; so expect them to 174 slightly struggle in the first few games of the year before recovering once region play arrives.

KEY LOSSES

OCT

2020 STATS overall record 10

395

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Barrett Davis

WHO’S BACK The most notable return offensively is dual-threat quarterback Kaleb Jackson, who totaled over 1,800 yards in 2020. Joseph Hampton and Chance Taylor will take over the rushing duties as rising seniors. The receiving corps will remain largely intact, as the top three receivers from 2020 (Lleyton Lackey, Reid Akins, and DJ Walton) will all return. Defensively, Evans will need a lot of help from its underclassmen. Linemen Joel Nyamongo and Aaron Stevens will likely have the largest impact up front, along with Jayden Lyons at the linebacker spot. The secondary will remain mostly the same, as Evans relies on two-way players, like the aforementioned Hampton and Lackey for defensive support.

REGION 2 - 6A

AUG

@ McIntosh County Academy

AUG

Camden County

SEPT

Winder -Barrow

Coffee

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 8

287

4 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

181

@ Brunswick

OCT

@ Bradwell Institute

OCT

South Effingham

OCT

@ Effingham County

OCT

@ Richmond Hill

NOV Statesboro

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

GLYNN ACADEMY

Head Coach: Rocky Hidalgo

WHAT TO EXPECT Hidalgo was named Region Coach of the Year, leading the Red Terrors to another Region Championship last year. Despite losing a big playmaker in Lewis, he expects more of the same from his Glynn Academy team in 2021. “Our goal is to always win the region championship-that never changes,” said Hidalgo. Whether they can finish atop region 2-AAAAAA this year could come down to the quarterback situation. Replacing Lewis will be junior Tyler Devlin, who also plays safety for Glynn Academy. Glynn Academy lost a lot of experience and talent, and this offseason will be critical to see who steps up to fill the void.

Hidalgo points to a couple of sophomores and four seniors that he says will be counted on for their leadership, experience, and skills heading into the upcoming season. Defensively, a couple of senior safeties will lead the way. Tate Rhodes and Kannum Warren are back and will be the table setters for the Red Terrors defense this season. Warren could see time at wide receiver, also. Returning First Team All-Region selection in 2020 D’Marius Clinch, a senior, anchors the defensive line at the tackle position this season. Over on offense, senior offensive lineman Quami Rhodes and fellow linemate sophomore Jack Hunt return up front, while returning sophomore David Prince will take his spot at wide receiver once again this season.

KEY LOSSES The biggest loss for the Red Terrors will no doubt be quarterback TJ Lewis, who is headed to Louisville University. His loss will be felt on the ground as much as through the air, as the dual threat player rushed for 1198 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also threw for six touchdowns and 652 yards. He was selected the Region Player of the Year for his accomplishments. Head coach Rocky Hidalgo will also say goodbye to several three-year starters who were instrumental in Glynn Academy’s three region titles out of the past four seasons, including a couple of offensive linemen. They are center Clayton Ketcham and tackle Nick Demarzo. On the defense, another pair of three-year starters not returning are inside linebacker Miles Smith and corner back Jaiden Miller. The defensive back signed with Charleston Southern. Middle linebacker/tight end Ryan Seay will also play at the next level, having signed to play at Savannah State.

They’ll get second-seed in the region this year.

ITG Next | 67

Houston Healthcare

SPORTS INJURIES

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Meeting the needs of Houston County families since 1960. www.hhc.org

68 | itgnext.com

REGION 1 - 6A

AUG

@ Perry

Crisp County

SEPT

Coffee

Statesboro

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

overall record 6

148

Losses

Points Scored 227

Warner Robins

SEPT

@ Newton

OCT Veterans

OCT

Lee County

OCT

@ Valdosta

OCT

@ Northside (WR)

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

HOUSTON COUNTY

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Ryan Crawford

KEY LOSSES Its tough to lose really good players. But when you consider that Houston County loses several players who were four-year starters during their playing career at HoCo, it underscores how much they meant to the team, and just how big their loss will be. That group includes RB Corey Chaisson, who ran for 785 yards and 4 touchdowns during his Bears career, and DB/athlete Jaylen Colvard is another player who did a little bit of everything when called on. He has signed with LaGrange College. Receiver and part-time QB Jack Honrath was another four-year starter at Houston County, and will play at Reinhardt University. Defensive end Jayleem Santos was another player who was all over the place for head coach Ryan Crawford during his time as a Bear. A three-year starter, he signed with Hanover College. Free safety Cam Stewart will go on to play at Fort Valley State. Other losses include Jayson Hodges, Tyler Williams, and Roman Mundy.

The Bears have a lot of experience returning in the trenches, which should give them a chance to establish the run this season. The question is who will be the quarterback? Last year, Christian Lawhorn became the teams full time starter at quarterback after spending the previous two seasons as a backup.He finished with 405 yards passing and 2 touchdowns on 44 completions. He has graduated, and Crawford says looking to this season, he is excited about two younger guys who are battling for the job during the offseason. “We have a couple of guys that are going to compete for the starting job of quarterback,” said Crawford. “We have a very talented freshman in Antwann Hill Jr. and rising junior Ross Curbow who are going at it right now this spring.” Running back Bryce (Davis? Found Huddle account for last name ending in Davis) Rogers (Davis) will be back to maybe take some of the heat off whoever gets the job. The Bears are looking to improve offensively, as they averaged just 13.5 points per game last season. The defense was stellar, however, allowing just 20 points per game on its end.

WHO’S BACK A host of senior linemen highlight the returning starters and contributors that figure to make an impact for the Bears this season. The big man group coming back includes senior defensive lineman Larry Fields, a three-year starter for Houston County. He has 124 total tackles, including 11 tackles for loss and 2 sacks, plus 2 fumble recoveries. He and his teammate and fellow linemate Jalen Jordan are gaining the interest of several college programs, and for good reason. Jordan has 72 tackles including 13 tackles for loss with 4 sacks. These two will be playing on Saturdays and maybe Sundays. Offensive linemen returning this year include Chandler Strong and Zac Lyle. Joining the big boys in 2021 will be returning defensive back Caleb Coley and Athlete Simeon Askew. While Coley has 64 tackles, two interceptions, a sack, and a blocked FG from his corner slot, Askew has 528 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns as a running back, and on defense he has 32 tackles. As a return man, he has racked up 204 return yards in his time with the Bears.

Look for the Bears to compete in the always tough Region1-6A.

ITG Next | 69

REGION 7 - 6A

JOHNS CREEK

AUG

@ Gainesville

@ Traveler’s Rest (SC)

SEPT

Heritage (Conyers)

SEPT

@ Sequoyah

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photo courtesy of Johns Creek HS Gladiator Football via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

156

Points Scored

182

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Matt Helmerich

KEY LOSSES The Gladiators lost QB Quin Teeples to graduation. Teeples threw for 923 yards and six scores in 2020. Running back Dylan Parr rushed for 567 yards and six scores. Running back/linebacker Tank Pritchett assisted Parr in the backfield, rushing for 119 yards and three scores. Out of the Gladiators’ top four receivers from 2020, three of them were seniors. Wide receivers Ethan Storey, John Stegenga, and Coln Raad were key components of the Gladiators’ passing attack last season. Defensively, lineman Cole Nelson led the team with 85 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and (was one of two players with) five sacks. Pritchett recorded 80 total tackles and two tackles for loss.

70 | itgnext.com

SEPT Riverwood

OCT

@ Chattahoochee Cambridge

OCT Centennial

OCT

@ River Ridge

NOV Creekview

WHAT TO EXPECT The Gladiators will have to replace their entire backfield in 2021. Quarterback Quin Teeples and running backs Dylan Parr and Tank Pritchett have left some huge holes for the team to fill. Pritchett’s departure will be felt on defense as well, perhaps more heavily than it will be felt on offense as he was one of the team’s best linebackers. A player who fans can expect to replace Pritchett is Gallagher. Gallagher had a great season at linebacker in 2020 and should be ready to perform even better in 2021. Wide receiver Brandon Palmer will bring some valuable experience to a Gladiator offense which will have plenty of new starters in 2021.

WHO’S BACK Wide receiver Brandon Palmer is back to catch passes for the Gladiators. In 2020, he was the team’s second-leading receiver. Linebacker Thaxton Gallagher was the team’s third-leading tackler as a junior in 2020. Gallagher recorded 71 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. Linebacker Micah Gay recorded 57 total tackles, three tackles for loss, and an interception. Defensive back Terian Williams recorded 55 total tackles, three tackles for loss, and an interception. The Gladiators’ offense will be without several talented players from 2020, but the defense is looking good for 2021, with several players who will be able to step up and play.

With a backfield that losses quite a bit of talent and some star defensive players also gone in 2021, the Gladiators may lose a few more games this season than in 2020.

REGION 6 - 6A

AUG

@ McEachern (Mercedes-Benz)

AUG

@ Hillgrove

SEPT Pope

SEPT

Kennesaw Mountain

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of Kell HS Football via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record 6

Wins

353

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

249

Head Coach: Brett Sloan

KEY LOSSES The biggest loss for Kell will be at the quarterback position as Corbin LaFrance graduates. They will also lose first-team All-Region WR Jamal Hill and second-team All-Region RB Xavier Parris. WR Jaylon Brown will also graduate, further impacting the Longhorns’ passing game. Up front, Jamari Steward will graduate as one of only a few linemen to leave. Kell’s younger defense will help them in the future. They lose Max Seevers and Jeremiah Morris on the defensive line and Nate Byk at linebacker, but those losses should be comfortably replaced by younger talent. In the secondary, Camron Ball, Miykayah Vinson, Elijah Dyer, and Keith Williams will graduate.

SEPT

@ South Cobb

KELL

OCT Osborne

OCT

@ Wheeler

OCT Allatoona

OCT

@ Sprayberry

NOV

@ Lassiter

WHAT TO EXPECT After back-to-back 9-win seasons in 2018 and 2019, Kell only won 6 games in 2020. They struggled in non-region games, losing to Blessed Trinity and Cambridge in blowouts. However, there is hope for 2021. Despite a completely new offense, the defense returns several playmakers, who will now be a year more experienced. This defensive excellence could help overwrite the offense’s mistakes during the 2021 season. Besides Allatoona, Sprayberry, and maybe Kennesaw Mountain, no team should pose a threat to the playoff-bound Longhorns once again. With 7A opponents like McEachern and Hillgrove to open the year, Kell should be well-prepared to gain momentum and establish an offensive rhythm during region play, which will prepare them for the playoffs.

WHO’S BACK Kell must rebuild their backfield. They’ll likely have either Ty Crockett or Davion Hampton at QB and David Mbadinga at RB. The Longhorns will need to train the next generation of wide receivers, and they have Ayden Jackson, Andrew Paxton, and others at their disposal. Defensively, the Longhorns will maintain some stability. Rising junior Josh Barker provides a fearsome presence on the line and LB Quintin Buckley can assist in stopping short passes. The secondary will rely on first-team All-Region selection Deandre Creary, as they did last year. Ultimately, Kell will need to replace several key positions offensively, but the defensive side of the ball will remain mostly intact.

With a second-round playoff appearance may not be out of the question for the Longhorns.

ITG Next | 71

REGION 3 - 6A

LAKESIDE (EVANS)

AUG

North Augusta (SC)

SEPT Greenbrier

SEPT

@ Effingham County

SEPT

Morgan County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of augustachronicle.com

overall record 9

Losses Points Scored

328

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Steve Hibbitts

WHO’S BACK

Head coach Steve Hibbitts will have several playmakers returning in 2021, and he is changing up the offensive scheme to better suit the talent he’s got coming back. “We are basing out of the Wing T and flexbone this year after suffering through a rebuilding season a year ago,” Hibbitts said. The Panthers will have junior quarterback Jason Whitaker and junior running back Temarcus Elam coming back to lead the new offensive look. Lakeside will have some experience returning this year along the offensive line: senior Marcus Sims and juniors Max Holt and Dalton Holt. Dalton Holt is a tight end. Senior defensive back Devin Gardner looks to shut down receivers on defense, while returning kicker/ punter Will Hattaway will return for his junior season.

72 | itgnext.com

@ Monroe Area

OCT

@ Heritage (Conyers)

OCT

@ Evans

OCT

Alcovy

Grovetown

NOV

@ Rockdale County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 2 Wins

SEPT

Lakeside Evans fans are hoping this year will be different, with more reasons to cheer on their hometown Panthers. With the changes Hibbitts is making, the head coach is looking to shed the memories of last year and start over. “We have whole new mindset and attitude heading into this season,” Hibbitts said. “We have redone a ton of things, including a new logo.” The key will be if the returning players can adapt to the new offense, especially the backs and quarterback. There is a lot of returning experience on the offensive and defensive lines, and having an experienced kicker and punter back is always a good thing. The key to a turn around will be how quickly the team can adjust to their new surroundings.

KEY LOSSES Wide Receiver Zalon Hawes will be missed, and so will his production. He had 732 receiving yards on 57 catches during his time at Lakeside Evans. He also added 111 yards rushing on 29 carries, putting together a total of nine touchdowns. Hawes also returned kicks and punts last season, as he had 393 kickoff return yards and added 46 yards on punt returns. Another athlete-type player who graduated is teammate Tyrone Manning (confirm this name. Seeing a Tyrone Reid come up on Maxpreps under his name. Also see a Tyrone Manning who plays for Lakeside as well on Hudle. Not sure if they are two different people or same person?). His timeline while at Lakeside Evans includes passing yards, receiving yards, rushing yards, kickoff return yards, and even a few tackles for good measure. He had two touchdowns. Running back Evan Hutchinson has graduated, and his 220 carries as a workhorse-type back will be missed. He ended with 873 yards rushing with and touchdowns during his career while at Lakeside Evans.

A much better year than last season. Look for the Panthers to more than double their win total from a year ago.

REGION 8 - 6A

AUG

@ Dutchtown

SEPT

Mountain View

SEPT

@ Peachtree Ridge

Denmark

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of lanierfootball.com

overall record 5

190 193

@ Dacula

OCT

@ Central Gwinnett

OCT

Habersham Central

OCT

@ Buford

OCT Shiloh

NOV

Winder -Barrow

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

LANIER

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Interim Head Coach: David Willingham

KEY LOSSES The longhorns have lost quarterback Andrew Blackford. Blackford is committed to play football at Virginia Military Institute. Blackford threw for 1,331 yards and nine touchdowns last season. Lanier also lost its head coach, as former coach Korey Mobbs stepped down to take the same position with Knoxville Catholic in Tennessee. All-Region wide receiver Tyler Washington caught 24 passes for 344 yards and three scores in 2020. Defensively, the Longhorns are losing All-Region and All-State linebacker Rylan Serna as well as defensive lineman Kyle King. Serna recorded 118 total tackles, 19 tackles for loss and seven sacks, and King recorded 37 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss and five sacks in 2020. Overall, it’s the Longhorns’ defense that will feature mostly new faces this year. Ten starters must be replaced in 2021.

Willingham says this team is “very young” and has “probably the least amount of experience coming back ever.” Willingham is very excited about the offensive line. They are a good group who works hard, according to Willingham. At quarterback, fans will have to get used to a new guy calling the shots behind center in senior Carson Thomas. “Our quarterback is going to be Carson Thomas,” Willingham said. “The offense is going to be more run-based this year.” Defense is where the Longhorns could struggle in 2021. According to Willingham, the Longhorns are “replacing almost everyone on defense …10 [players] on defense.”

WHO’S BACK Taking the reins at quarterback will be senior Carson Thomas. Thomas saw limited playing time last season as Blackford’s backup. Running back Bryan Williams will be returning to the Longhorns’ backfield in 2021. As a sophomore, Williams rushed for 530 yards and three scores. Offensive lineman Luke Jones is back and, according to interim head coach David Willingham, he might be the best player on offense. Jones is a six-footfive-inch, 280-pound senior. Also back on offense is senior wide receiver Reese Scott. Scott caught 37 passes for 528 yards and three scores in 2020. Defensively, linebacker Ryan Jean is back. As a sophomore, Jean recorded 22 total tackles. Linebacker Matthew Laughlin is the other returning linebacker. In 2020, Laughlin recorded 48 total tackles and five sacks.

The Longhorns lost some All-Region and All-State players, and the defense will be brand new. This will be a tough season as Lanier rebuilds. The Longhorns may lose a couple of more games this season than they did in 2020. ITG Next | 73

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REGION 1 - 6A

LEE COUNTY

AUG

Carver (Columbus)

AUG

Jackson (ATL)

SEPT

East Ridge (FL)

SEPT Lowndes

SEPT

Lithia Springs

SEPT

@ Warner Robins

WHAT TO EXPECT No real reason to expect anything but another stellar season from Lee County this season. Yes, they do lose some serious talent with McDowell and Magwood leaving to play Division I football, but Fabrizio has been masterful over the last few seasons of simply reloading whenever the Trojans have experienced big senior class losses, and there’s no reason to think this year will be any different. Running back could be the one area to keep an eye on without a proven returner coming back, but don’t expect that to keep this solid bunch from making another run in 6A.

WHO’S BACK Leading the returning contributors is three-year starter Malik Brackins at defensive end, and All-Region linebacker Juwan Bailey. Other standout defendersreturningv are standout defensive back Quavion Carter, although an offseason injury has put his senior season in question as far as how much playing time he will see-if any. Fabrizio says there is an outside chance that the Michigan State commit could return by the time the playoffs roll around. Jaron Willis, who will play a hybrid defensive back/linebacker spot for the Trojans. On the offense, Lee returns three linemen, with All-Region selection Qae’shon Sapp leading the way, along with fellow All-Region selection Owen Greene joining him. Down the line will be returning tight end Tyrus Washington coming back. Big fullback/defensive lineman Damarion Roberts will return to give assistance as a blocking back and short yardage weapon.

12-2 with another deep playoff run.

76 | itgnext.com

OCT

North Miami Beach (FL)

OCT

@ Houston County

OCT

Northside (WR)

OCT

@ Valdosta

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

2020 STATS overall record 12

Wins 535

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

211

Head Coach: Dean Fabrizio

KEY LOSSES Head coach Dean Fabrizio and his staff will lose some solid talent that’s been a big part of the success Lee has enjoyed over the last few seasons. That group includes running back Caleb “JuJu” McDowell, who signed with South Carolina. He led his Lee County team with 1,350 yards rushing and 32 touchdowns last season. His backfield mate, Preston Simmons, also leaves. The team will also enter 2021 without quarterback Chauncey Magwood, a converted receiver who won the job in the offseason. He is attending Kentucky on a scholarship. Other key losses include Cedric Wynn, AJ Patrick, and Baron “The Beast” Hopson.

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NORTHSIDE (WR)

REGION 1 - 6A

AUG

@ Veterans

Peach County

SEPT

@ Howard

@ Warner Robins

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

overall record Wins

Losses

158

Points Scored 286

Richmond Hill

SEPT

@ Colquitt County

OCT

Luella

Valdosta

OCT

@ Lee County

OCT

Houston County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 4

SEPT

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Chad Alligood

WHO’S BACK Several offensive playmakers will be back this season for the Eagles, starting with senior quarterback Elijah Robinson and All Region wide receiver Centavious Lowe. A couple of second team All Region performers will return in running back/ line backer Micah Thurman and offensive lineman Quinton Lewis. Defensively, Northside Warner Robins will have senior safety Calen Reaves and corner back Laderion Jones returning to help fill the loss of Glanton in the defensive backfield. along with line backer Elijah Antonio.

Eagles fans everywhere will be watching closely to see if Alligood can get the Eagles back to the winning ways that Northside football is known for. The head coach says his team is on the right track, and the four-win total last season means nothing compared to where his team is now. “Nothing you do in the past matters,” said Alligood “Our expectations here at Northside is to always win, and this offseason, our motto is ‘No excuses-just win’”, he said. The Eagles have several of their playmakers back, most notably at the skill positions. The big question will be to see if Northside is finally ready to move towards the spread offense that Alligood first implemented last year.

KEY LOSSES Fortunately for 2nd year coach Chad Alligood, the Eagles won’t lose too many skill position players from an offense that’s in transition from the triple option to a more wide open offense. But, that doesn’t mean the losses aren’t important, because they are. The graduating group includes offensive starters running back Jaylen Cephus, tight end Jordan Clay, lineman Trey Cameron, and wide receiver Justin Luke. On defense, it’s linemen Jaidyn Rumph and Oliver Prater, along with line backers Cayleb Pierce and CJ Radford who won’t be returning. All Region defensive back Ty Glanton, who had two interceptions and a blocked FG attempt last season, will be missed. The lone All Region Punter selection, Adam Lemond, leaves a big special teams void for Alligood to fill this season.

Look for the Eagles to improve upon last season’s record.

ITG Next | 79

REGION 2 - 6A

RICHMOND HILL

AUG

@ Beaufort (SC)

AUG

@ Burke County

SEPT

@ Wayne County

SEPT

@ Northside (WR)

SEPT

Bradwell Institute

OCT

@ Statesboro

WHAT TO EXPECT In an always-tough Region 2-6A, Richmond Hill will likely struggle to contend for a region crown as it has for the last three seasons. A rebuilding effort begins upfront along both lines for the Wildcats, who will try and replace its entire starting defensive line and four of its five starting offensive linemen from last year. Expect RHHS to be well-coached, but inexperience could cause problems on both sides of the ball, especially early in the season. After going 5-0 at home last year, the ‘Cats are expecting to field a tough home schedule in 2021.

OCT

Effingham County

OCT

@ Brunswick

OCT

Glynn Academy

Few teams across the state will have to replace as much graduated talent as the Wildcats. Entering 2021, head coach Matt LeZotte’s team will have to replace its leading passer, rusher, receiver, and tackler from the 2020 roster. Ashaud Roberson departs after rushing for 1,564 yards and 16 touchdowns on 236 carries last year, and Kenyan Hunter (50 carries, 367 yards, 13 touchdowns) is also gone after graduating. Combined, that duo accounted for 87% of the team’s total rushing yards, 76% of the rushing touchdowns, and 72% of the carries. RHHS also graduated its Top-12 tacklers from 2020, and All-State place kicker/punter Britton Williams is also gone after signing with Georgia Southern.

RHHS may lose a few more games in 2021 than it did in 2020 because of some important pieces on offense and defense gone from last year’s team.

80 | itgnext.com

@ South Effingham

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photo courtesy of Bryan County News via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins 417

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

200

KEY LOSSES

OCT

Head Coach: Matt LeZotte

WHO’S BACK Christian Hubbard, Alex Workman, and Fisher Avery could be names to monitor along the offensive line for the Wildcats, but the true returning strength could be found on the sidelines more so than in between the lines. LeZotte and RHHS have produced a 1,000-yard running back three out of the last four seasons. The head coach’s brother, Tony LeZotte, figures to be back as defensive coordinator and Joe Scott as offensive coordinator.

REGION 7 - 6A

AUG Lassiter

AUG

@ Woodstock

SEPT

@ Etowah

OCT

Chattahoochee

Riverwood

Creekview

overall record 1 Losses

405

Points Scored Points Allowed

241

OCT

@ Centennial

OCT

@ Sequoyah

OCT

Johns Creek

NOV

@ Cambridge

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 11

SEPT

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of albanyherald.com

Wins

RIVER RIDGE

Head Coach: Michael Collins

KEY LOSSES Receiver Riley Caines (37 receptions, 403 yards, and four touchdowns in 2020) graduated from an offense which averaged 33.75 points per game last season under head coach Michael Collins. Scott Rutherford (154 tackles in 2020), Connor Gross (126), and Liam Bruton (116) have graduated from the defensive side of the ball. The trio of hundred-plus tacklers leave behind a void within the Knights defensive unit which also lost Hunter Deriso (10 tackles for loss) to graduation.

Offensively, River Ridge should look very similar to last season, when the Knights used a steady dose of Morrison out of the shotgun/pistol formation before routinely hitting on big play-action passes down the field through the arm of Lathem. Expect the Knights to spread it out again and feature three and four-receiver sets to spread the defense east and west in an effort to free up space for Morrison. Bradley anchors the defensive side, but the Knights will need to replace a lot of production so tackling and fundamentals should be monitored on that side early on.

WHO’S BACK River Ridge is, simply put, loaded with talent entering the 2021 campaign. The Knights expect to return rising senior running back Amehre Morrison (265 carries, 1,958 yards, and 29 touchdowns) and junior receiver Jackson Head (36 catches, 657 yards, and seven touchdowns) among many other weapons on offense. Dual-threat Andrew Bingham rushed for 435 yards and tallied 322 more in the receiving category last season. Quarterback Carson Lathem is back for a senior season after throwing for 17 touchdowns and 1,789 yards as a junior in 2020. Defensively, River Ridge will be led by rising senior defensive linemen Brian Bradley (118 tackles, 19 TFL’s, and nine sacks) and Dylon Persad (95 tackles, four tackles for loss).

With a legitimate State Player of the Year candidate in Morrison, the Knights should contend and be favorites to repeat as Region 7-6A champions again in 2021. I’ll predict them to advance to the Class 6A Final Four, one round further than their Elite 8 finish last season.

ITG Next | 81

REGION 5 - 6A

ROME

AUG

@ Rockmart

SEPT

Cherokee

Collins Hill

SEPT

@ South Paulding

SEPT

OCT

Carrollton

Dalton

OCT

@ East Paulding

OCT

@ Alexander

OCT

Douglas County

NOV

@ Paulding County

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by: ITG Next

WHAT TO EXPECT The Wolves are losing some good players on offense and defense, but fans should be excited. Quarterback Reece fountain had a solid season as a freshman. Running back Shaun Nelson did the same, and now they both have some valuable experience that will help them improve in 2021. Wide receiver/defensive back Martel Hight has several offers from Division I programs and is set to have a big year on both sides of the ball once again as a junior. The Wolves’ receiving corps will be full of talent and experience in 2021, which will make things a lot easier for Fountain as he goes into his second year leading the Wolves’ offense. Linebacker Jyrine Griffin and the Wolves’ defense will be tough this year.

KEY LOSSES Quarterback Caleb Ellard played in five games in 2020. Ellard split playing time with freshman quarterback Reece Fountain and threw for 668 yards and five touchdowns. Ellard also added 104 yards on the ground and four scores. Running back Eddie Burks led the team in rushing with 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns. Wide receiver Jaquavious Wise was the team’s top receiver in 2020. Wise caught 46 passes for 638 yards receiving and four scores. On Defense, the team’s top tackler from 2020, defensive lineman Bryant Wilkinson, has moved on from the Wolves. Wilkinson recorded 97 total tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 13 sacks. Defensive back Jameion Leath recorded 82 total tackles and caught two interceptions last season.

The Wolves are loaded with talent and experience at every position. In 2021, fans should expect them to make a deep run in the playoffs.

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins

277 247

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: John Reid

WHO’S BACK The Wolves’ leading passer last season was freshman quarterback Reece Fountain. Fountain threw for 1,085 yards and eight touchdowns through nine games in 2020. Running back Shaun Nelson was the team’s second-leading rusher last season. Nelson rushed for 473 yards and five touchdowns as a freshman. Nelson also recorded two touchdown receptions. Wide receiver Martel Hight was the Wolves’ second-best receiver in 2020, catching 30 passes for 386 yards and three scores as a sophomore. Wide receiver Martavious Collins was the Wolves’ third-best receiver in 2020. Collins recorded 329 yards receiving and two scores as a freshman. Linebacker Jyrine Griffin was the team’s second leading tackler. Griffin recorded 87 total tackles in 2020. At defensive back, Hight recorded five interceptions last season.

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SHILOH

REGION 8 - 6A

AUG

@ Mountain View

SEPT Denmark

SEPT

South Gwinnett

@ Westlake

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of patch.com

overall record 3

188

Losses Points Scored

313

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Tino Ierulli

WHAT TO EXPECT The 2019 season marked the first time Shiloh won at least 7 games in a year since 2000. However, 2020 was a return to much of the same mediocrity, as the Generals only won thrice. The key this upcoming year will be winning region games. Shiloh lost to Winder-Barrow and Habersham Central in close games last year, but if they can win those games this year, they could make the playoffs. This team certainly has promise, especially in the run game offensively. Expect 2021 to exhibit a better Shiloh team both in play and record. They already routed a usually dominant Parkview program 27-0 during the annual spring game, and that could be a sign of future dominance against teams like Mountain View and South Gwinnett.

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Central Gwinnett

OCT

Winder -Barrow

OCT

@ Buford

OCT Dacula

OCT

@ Lanier

NOV

@ Habersham Central

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

OCT

There will be more than enough replacements for the graduating Shiloh seniors. Starting QB Sterling Knowles will return. The Generals have a plethora of running backs in Christion Barker, Robert Shumake, Dion McDowell, and Xavier Wright, who all rushed for over 100 yards in 2020. Although Shiloh does not pass very often, they will return rising junior receiver Myles Smith, who led the team in receiving yards last year. The front seven will get a lot of help next year as Isaac Prince, Damon Gaskin Jr., and Ryan Green return at linebacker. The trio combined for 194 tackles and 21 tackles for loss in 2020. The secondary will get help with Brice Pollock returning as a junior and Jaylen Cooper and the aforementioned Christion Barker returning as seniors.

KEY LOSSES The Generals will lose leading rusher and backup QB Antonio Meeks. Meeks also caught passes for Shiloh, so his loss will be a large one offensively. Receiver Jordan Mitchell, who caught six passes for over 100 yards last season, also graduated. Shiloh also loses first-team all-region lineman Ahmand Tate up front. Defensively, the front seven will take the largest hit. Ahmad Edwards and Dresden Frazier graduate as linebackers while Keyon Farmer and Ladanian Smith must be replaced on the defensive line. In the secondary, Marquis Hepburn and Montae Boyd will also graduate. They combined for only 4 interceptions but stuffed the stat sheet in tackles. Antonio Meeks makes a return once again, as he accounted for two interceptions, a sack, and numerous tackles defensively.

The Generals may win a few more games than last year and finish the season mark with a first-round playoff appearance.

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REGION 5 - 6A

SOUTH PAULDING

AUG Hiram

AUG

@ North Paulding

SEPT

@ Chapel Hill

SEPT Rome

SEPT

@ Dalton

OCT

@ Carrollton

WHAT TO EXPECT If Nash and his staff can replace the leadership lost, the Spartans might be pretty good. The talent coming back is good enough to compete for a top spot on the region, but it won’t be easy, according to Nash. “When you’re in a region with teams like Rome, Carrolton, and Douglas County to compete with, you must be at your best,” Nash, who is heading into his third coaching season at South Paulding, said. The thing to look at with this team is how much playing time the younger guys got last year, with so many sophomores playing leading roles. They are a year older and stronger. Nash is guardedly optimistic. “We feel like we can be pretty special, but I’ve learned that potential is a dangerous word,” he said.

KEY LOSSES Head coach Jason Nash and his staff will have to replace 10 seniors that graduated from last year’s 5-5 team, with most of the replacements coming on the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker is a position that was hit hard for the Spartans, with the biggest perhaps being Tyler Barnett. Nash says Barnett lead the Spartans’ defense, was captain, and called everything for the team. Fellow linebacker CJ Nunally IV will be attending Jackson State on scholarship. Other losses on the defense include safety Jalen Marshall, who will attend and play football at the Air Force. Three-year starter at corner Jeremiah Austin departs for Iowa Western Community College, while nose guard Michael Young was offered by Reinhardt College.

Look for the Spartans to be one of the teams to beat in region play this year.

86 | itgnext.com

OCT

Douglas County

Paulding County

OCT

NOV

@ East Paulding

Alexander

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of mdjonline.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

212 193

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Jason Nash

WHO’S BACK South Paulding will bring back a slew of juniors who saw a lot of time as sophomores last season. The list of returning contributors include junior quarterback Kasen Weisman, a dual- threat player who started seven games last season for South Paulding. Massive junior offensive tackle Madden Sanker returns to anchor things up front and is joined by fellow returning linemen Andrew Young at center and Issac Keene at tackle. Junior running backs Jamarion Wilcox and Ronell Caffey will return this season, along with junior tight end Rod Mccoy. On defense, three seniors return this season. They are safety Greyson Ellerbee, linebacker Bryce Phillips, and defensive end Chase Calcagno.

REGION 2 - 6A

AUG

Wayne County Paulsen Stadium

SEPT Swainsboro

SEPT

@ Houston County

Liberty County

OCT

Richmond Hill

STATESBORO

OCT Brunswick

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of southernbleacher.com

overall record Wins

213

@ Bradwell Institute

OCT

South Effingham

OCT

@ Effingham County

NOV

@Glynn Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 4

OCT

Losses

Statesboro has made the state playoffs each of the last three seasons, but the Blue Devils have been eliminated in the first round each time. Last year’s season ended with the No. 4 seeded Blue Devils losing at 1-seeded Evans by a score of 42-21. The consistent state playoff appearances should be continued this season in a top-heavy Region 2-6A. Hopefully for the Statesboro faithful, the fourth time’s the charm come playoff time.

Points Scored

ITG Next Football Coach’s Shows

Points Allowed

280

COMING AUGUST 2021

Head Coach: Jeff Kaiser

WHO’S BACK First team All-Region selection Jalin Mikell returns for his senior season at running back as does junior wide receiver James Flagg (second team). Also back for the Blue Devils are junior athletes Caleb Tisby and Jordan Lovett.

Bainbridge

Blessed Trinity

Brooks County

Brookstone

Buford

Calhoun

Camden County

Cartersville

Cook

Crisp County

ELCA

Grayson

Griffin

John Milledge

LaGrange

Lee County

McEachern

Parkview

Pelham

Rabun County

Statesboro

West Laurens

KEY LOSSES Quarterback Ames Rackleff and running back Aundrell Grace are gone from the 2020 squad after graduating. Offensive linemen X´Zavion Michael and Taylor Moon have graduated as have defensive standouts Dake Williams (DL), JD Kaiser (LB) and Gabe Idowu (DB).

The Blue Devils will make the state playoffs as the region’s No. 3 or No. 4 seed and compete for a playoff win on the road in round one.

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REGION 1 - 6A

AUG

@ Warner Robins

AUG

Madison County (FL)

SEPT

@ Bainbridge

Colquitt County

2020 STATS overall record

Overall Record: 0-12 (7-5 prior to GHSA ruling) 225

@ Lowndes

OCT

Tift County

OCT

Westside (FL)

OCT

@ Northside (WR)

OCT

Houston County

OCT

Lee County

KEY LOSSES

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Madison Turner

355

SEPT

VALDOSTA

Points Scored Points Allowed

Interim Head Coach: Shelton Felton

WHAT TO EXPECT The Wildcats will unfortunately be facing a season with no chance at making the postseason as part of penalties handed down by the GHSA, but Valdosta will still prove to be a formidable challenge this season to their 10 regular season opponents. The ‘Cats should be pretty solid on defense; however the biggest question mark could be their offense. They will be without their projected starter at quarterback in Jones, and they must also face heading into 2021 without Sam Brown, who looked like he was all but ready to go after a 12 for 14 passing performance with 210 yards and four touchdowns in the Wildcats spring game victory over Jones County. But, soon after that contest, Brown transferred to Thomas County Central. That leaves Valdosta searching for someone to step up and take the signal caller slot as they get ready for the season opener at defending state champion Warner Robins.

The offseason has seen the Valdosta football program endure a few expected and unexpected losses from last year’s team. The bottom line is that the offense will miss some big-time talent from last year’s Class 6A semifinals squad, as well as rising talent that was expected to make an impact this season. That includes standout wide receivers Aalah Brown, who will play for Jackson State, and Javonte Sherman, who will be suiting up for the Middle Tennessee State. Offensive lineman Jaquez White signed with Florida Memorial University. Senior receiver Tajh Sanders, quarterback Amari Jones, and running back Jamad Willis were expected to return to lead the offense in 2021, but due to a GHSA ruling of eligibility, those three players will also not be returning. Defensively, linebacker Ty’Li Lewis was also affected by the GHSA ruling and won’t return for his senior season. Other defenders that Valdosta will miss this season include linebackers Chris McClain, who signed with Shorter University, and Jaylin Alderman, who is headed to Louisville. Linebacker Quavion Williams signed with Erksine College. Others from the defense moving on to play collegiately from last year’s team are lineman Joshua Hill (Albany St) and defensive back Maxwell Cherelus (Reinhardt University).

WHO’S BACK

The key to Valdosta overcoming their challenges on offense may lie with a true “running back by committee” scenario, with a group of five returning senior running backs, all of whom could see substantial playing time. They are Terrell Denson, Ahmad Denson, Chris Wolfe, Jamad Willis, and Kaleb Robinson, each of whom could make an impact in 2021. Linemen Jacarrius Peak and Will Collier will return, giving Valdosta strength and experience on the line. On defense, four-star cornerback and LSU commit JaDarian Rhym returns to lead the defensive effort this year for the ‘Cats, along with linebacker Jalen Merriweather, who is coming off a solid junior season that saw him register 72 tackles with three sacks. Merriweather currently has several offers that he’s considering. Senior safety Isaiah Holland, who is considering several offers, brings both power and speed to the defensive effort this year, along with linebacker Jacquez McGowan. Kicker Angel Martinez returns. A younger player poised to make an impact and will be one to watch is sophomore defensive end Eric Brantley Jr., who already has an offer from Troy University.

With a coach that knows how to win in Shelton Felton, and several collegebound seniors on the roster, Valdosta is going to surprise some folks in 2021.

ITG Next | 89

REGION 4 - 6A

WESTLAKE

AUG Archer

AUG

@ Colquitt County

SEPT

@ Creekside

SEPT

OCT

Mays

Shiloh

Hughes

WHO’S BACK The Lions’ offense was led by All-State quarterback RJ Johnson in 2020. As a sophomore, Johnson threw for 3,197 yards and 26 touchdowns with only four interceptions. Johnson added 305 yards and four scores on the ground. The team’s leading rusher in 2020 was running back Zina Mulbah. Mulbah rushed for 791 yards and 13 touchdowns. Mulbah is returning for his senior season in 2021. Running back Jakari Christian is back for his senior season as well. In 2020, Christian rushed for 248 yards and two scores in nine games. The Lions’ backfield is loaded with talent and experience coming into 2021.

KEY LOSSES The Lions’ second-leading rusher was senior running back Corzavius Smart. Smart rushed for 767 yards and seven touchdowns. The biggest loss that the Lions will have to deal with in 2021 is the loss of their receiving corps. The Lions are losing five senior wide receivers and one senior tight end. Leo Blackburn was an All-State tight end and Dacari Collins was an All-State wide receiver. Collins recorded 868 yards receiving and eight touchdowns. Blackburn recorded 1,059 yards receiving and 10 touchdown receptions. Nate Wiggins recorded 428 yards receiving and five touchdowns, Jaquez Smith recorded 298 yards receiving and one touchdown, Corey Dixon recorded 242 yards receiving and three touchdowns, and Amauri Barber recorded two touchdown receptions. Wiggins was an All-State player at defensive back.

The Lions will make a deep run in the playoffs again, but the loss of the six receivers will hurt their playoff run.

90 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Morrow

OCT

@ North Atlanta

OCT

NOV

@ Lovejoy

Tucker

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of Dacari Collins

2020 STATS overall record 2

Wins 503

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

225

Head Coach: Bobby May

WHAT TO EXPECT The Lions were young in 2020, but managed to pull off an 11-2 record, nearly making it to the state title game before they were ousted by Lee County in the semifinals. Fans should expect the Lions to repeat this level of success in 2021, especially if they are able to fill some holes that Collins and Blackburn are leaving in the receiving corps. The loss of All-State defensive back Wiggins will hurt, but the offense will have so many weapons coming back that it may not have a very drastic effect on the Lions overall.

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Written by: Dhruv Mohan

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS

Thomas Castellanos Ware County 2,881 YDs

Brooks Pangle Greenbrier 2,858 YDS

John Alan Richter Jones County 2,089 YDS

Chadrick Garner Jonesboro 1,698 YDS

TW: Brooks Pangle

Justice Haynes Blessed Trinity 1,750 YDS

Damari Alston Woodward Academy 1,507 YDS

Dallas Johnson Eastside 1,466 YDS

Micah Bell Ola 1,208 YDS

si.com

GAMES TO WATCH Bartram Trail (FL) @ Ware Co.

Cartersville @ Blessed Trinity

Dutchtown @ Jones Co.

Ware County is put under the spotlight in an out-of-state matchup against a prominent Florida program. The Gators feature star QB Thomas Castellanos and other important offensive weapons such as: WR James Daniels and RB Cartevious Norton. Bartram Trail has won 22 games over the past two years, and they will look for a marquee win on the road against a very tough 5A opponent. A win here for Ware County could give them momentum through a relatively difficult regular season. This is one of the better out-of-state matchups out of all inter-state games in Georgia high school football for 2021.

Blessed Trinity returns their spectacular backfield of QB JC French and RB Justice Haynes, who led the state in rushing last year. Cartersville, on the other hand, lost QBs Carlos Del Rio-Wilson and Stratton Tripp. This may be a potential trap game for the Titans, as they may overlook a Cartersville squad that lost a lot after losing to Warner Robins in the state title game in 2020. Blessed Trinity will also be without coaching stalwart Tim McFarlin. Let’s see how these changes to both teams affect a region rivalry that never disappoints!

Jones County has won five of the past six matchups with Dutchtown. However, they will be without RB Andrew Carner, a key cog in the Greyhound offense who graduated. Dutchtown, on the other hand, returns a good number of players that could potentially make an impact in region play. The last three games between these teams have only been separated by eight points or less, and a potential region championship could be on the line in this last-week game. Could the Bulldogs pull a shocker on a back-to-back semifinalist in Jones County? Or will Jones County once again prove why they deserve respect in 5A?

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IMPACT CHANGES One of the biggest changes in 5A was the departure of longtime Blessed Trinity head coach Tim McFarlin. McFarlin has taken the coaching job at another Roswell school, Fellowship Christian. Additionally, Eagle’s Landing has hired head coach Markus Brown in hopes of turning around a program that has only won four games in the past three years. Graduation has taken a toll on several teams too, especially Warner Robins. The 2020 5A state champions lost dominant QB Jalen Addie and leading rusher RB Jahlen Rutherford. This may very well keep them on the fringe of the conversation for back-to-back state titles.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Zachariah White

Daveon Walker

Chapel Hill 123 TKS

Warner Robins 790 YDs

Kalen Justice

Maurice Turner

Drew 118 TKS

Coffee 712 YDs

Anthony Gaskin

Malik Leverett

Coffee 113 TKS

Greenbrier 663 YDs

Zion Ragins

Brandon High

Jones County 584 YDs

Coffee 111 TKS

hudl.com

macon.com

TOP TEN RANKINGS 5A

1 Blessed Trinity

6 Cartersville

Warner Robins

Ware County

Creekside

Coffee

Calhoun

Woodward Academy

Jones County

10 Starr’s Mill

ITG Next | 93

REGION 7 - 5A

BLESSED TRINITY

AUG

Woodland (Stockbridge)

AUG Marist

SEPT

@ St. Pius X

SEPT

@ Charlotte Catholic (SC)

SEPT @ ELCA

OCT

@ Woodland (Cartersville)

WHO’S BACK Quarterback JC French will be entering his senior year. French threw for 818 yards and nine touchdowns in 2020. Joining him in the backfield is junior running back Justice Haynes, who rushed for 1,750 yards and 25 touchdowns. Wide receiver Ashton Abrew will be a senior, and he will see playing time at defensive back as well. Junior Evan Dickens and senior Titus Nordlander will both get playing time at running back and defensive back. All-State defensive lineman Ryan Scott will be a senior. On the opposite side of the line will be junior offensive lineman Skye Richardson. Richardson is joined on the offensive line by center Jack Pirinelli, who will be a senior. Linebacker/fullback Mavrick Torrico will be a junior.

KEY LOSSES Blessed Trinity saw 10 of their seniors from the class of 2021 sign to play college football. Linebacker/tight end Michael Mitchler committed to play football at Samford, as did safety/wide receiver David Coltrane. Fullback/linebacker Ryan Dupont committed to play football at Wake Forest. Wide receiver/defensive back Carson Harof and running back Englan Williams committed to play football at Georgia Tech. Linebacker/tight end Jackson Hamilton committed to play football at Louisville. Wide receiver/defensive back Brendan Hunt committed to play football at Mercer. Offensive lineman Johnny Ryan committed to play football at Centre College. Offensive lineman Ty Furnish committed to play football at Virginia. Defensive back Nolan Tully committed to play football at DePauw University.

The Titans will be good enough to continue their success in 2021 and make a run in the playoffs.

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OCT

Calhoun

Cartersville

OCT

@ Hiram

@ Cass

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of btcatholic.org

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins 395

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

115

Head Coach: Tom Hall

WHAT TO EXPECT The Titans were very successful in 2020, finishing the season at 8-1. In 2021, the Titans will play in some tough games. “We’ve got a really difficult schedule ahead of us,” head coach Tom Hall said. “The success we’ve had warrants that, but we have high expectations.” Hall was hired in February as the third head coach in the history of the Blessed Trinity football program. Hall has high hopes for the 2021 season, despite the loss of a very talented senior class. “We lost 10 kids who signed [to play in college],” he said. “There are a lot of holes to fill, but we are ready for it.”

ITG Next | 95

CALHOUN

AUG Dalton

AUG

McCallie (TN)

REGION 7 - 5A

SEPT

@ Ridgeland

Cedartown

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of northwestgeorgianews.com

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins 431

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

242

Head Coach: Clay Stephenson

WHO’S BACK In the trenches, the Yellow Jackets are returning 5A All-State offensive lineman Kendrick Kirby. Kirby is a three-year starter on the line. Wide receivers Cole Speer and Quin Smith are back for their senior year. Speer and Smith are both three-year starters at the wide receiver position. The Lewis brothers are back for their senior seasons. Christian Lewis is entering his second year as the Yellow Jackets’ starting quarterback. Christopher Lewis is entering his second year as a starting linebacker for the team. Christopher Lewis will also play running back and a few positions on offense in 2021.

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SEPT

@ Woodstock

OCT Hiram

OCT

@ Blessed Trinity

OCT

Woodland (Cartersville)

OCT Cass

OCT

@ Cartersville

WHAT TO EXPECT “We have a lot of kids coming back,” head coach Clay Stephenson said. “Replacing those guys [that signed to play in college] is going to be tough, but it’s time for new kids to step up and lead.” Coach Stephenson said he is looking forward to the season and is confident that his team will be ready, despite the challenge of replacing a lot of talented players. As with every team, it’s important to have leaders in the players, not just the coaches. “Once you have those leaders, everything else falls into place,” Stephenson said. Expect the Yellow Jackets to seriously compete in 2021, as they are once again led by players like Lewis and Speer.

KEY LOSSES With the loss of Garland and Griffin, the team will have some big holes to fill at the end positions on both offense and defense. Tight end/defensive lineman Brett Garland was awarded 5A All-State Honorable Mention honors. Garland is committed to play football at Bethel University. Tight end/defensive end Carson Griffin is committed to play football at Mercer. Running back Jerrian Hames was awarded 5A All-State honors as a senior. Hames rushed for over 1,600 yards and 21 total touchdowns. Hames is committed to play football at Reinhardt University. Offensive lineman Reed Randall and wide receiver/defensive back Ethan Tibbs are committed to play football at Shorter.

The Yellow Jackets will make a run in the playoffs but will be forced out in the second round.

CARTERSVILLE

AUG Morrow

AUG

@ West Forsyth

SEPT

@ Alexander

REGION 7 - 5A

SEPT

OCT

Creekside

Cherokee

Cass

WHO’S BACK

Right tackle Shadre Hurst, who Foster calls “a tremendous athlete”, will return for his final season. According to Foster, Hurst just received his first of what will surely be many more offers, as Washington State has extended their interest in Hurst. Senior receiver Brynen Wilkins will be back, and while he didn’t put up major stats, he did play his best game in the state championship matchup vs Warner Robins, says Foster. “He had 2 big catches in that game, and played his best game of the year,” said Foster. Another player that Foster says is going to be a key returner this season is junior receiver Collin Fletcher. Like Wilkins, the junior came up huge on the big stage. “Collin played some big minutes in the championship game, too,” said Foster. Other returners are seniors Tate Smith and Nasir Grandberry. Junior punter Phillip Schiltz will be back, and possesses quite a unique talent, according to Foster. “Phillip is ambidextrous,” said Foster.

KEY LOSSES There are players that you miss for their talent, and some you miss because of the way they carry themselves. For Cartersville head coach Conor Foster, safety/athlete Evan Slocum will be missed for being a standout person as much as his abilities. “Evan is an incredible young man,” Foster said. “His leadership is unmatched and will be missed.” The safety has been a 3-year starter but will now take his talent to Wake Forest. Cornerback/receiver Devonte Ross has enjoyed a stellar career while at Cartersville, racking up an incredible 2,532 receiving yards and 29 touchdowns. He also has a touchdown on a punt return to give him an even 30 for his career. Ross is headed to the University of Kentucky. The two quarterbacks that split time this past season at Cartersville are both headed to the collegiate level. Carlos Del Rio-Wilson, who played in just eight games after transferring to the Hurricanes, is headed to Gainesville to play for the Florida Gators, while incumbent Stratton Tripp will attend Georgia State University.

Too much talent to not think about a return trip to the title game in 2021.

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OCT

@ Hiram

OCT

@ Blessed Trinity

OCT

@ Woodland (Cartersville)

Calhoun

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of daily-tribune.com

2020 STATS overall record 13

Wins

2 Losses

529 246

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Connor Foster

WHAT TO EXPECT Despite coming up short in the 5A state title game versus Warner Robins, the Hurricanes and Foster are looking forward to the guys that return this season to help them get back to the title contest. If the Hurricanes are going to make a return trip to the big game, they’ll have to do it with fewer of the players that helped them get there last season. “We lose 18 seniors,” said Foster. While that may be bad news to some Cartersville fans, the team also returns some solid talent this year. Probably the biggest hurdle to face will be a rather unique challenge heading into this season: How to replace not just one but two quarterbacks. Cartersville played both Tripp and Del-Rio Wilson last year, with each player contributing equally. That may the single-biggest challenge for Foster and the Purple Hurricanes this season.

REGION 8 - 5A

AUG

Cedar Shoals

Buford

SEPT

Oconee County

SEPT Apalachee

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of hudl.com

overall record 8

294

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

218

@ Jackson County

OCT

@ Eastside

OCT

Walnut Grove

OCT Greenbrier

OCT

@ Loganville

OCT

@ Johnson

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

CLARKE CENTRAL

Head Coach: David Perno

KEY LOSSES Clarke Central will operate under another signal-caller next season as they lost senior QB William Robinson. They also lost four offensive linemen to graduation: Tion Bailey, Montavious Cunningham, William Lineberger, and Ntela Diekumpuna. The Gladiators will also lose their top two receiving threats, Jairus Mack and Justin Hodges. On defense, Clarke Central’s secondary will be hit hard due to the graduation of Tyreon Millsap, Jaavan Mack, Scotty Randolph III, and Douglas Clark Jr, who combined for 14 of the team’s 15 interceptions. They will also lose sack leader Jay Cofer and QB hurries leader Myles Cooper. Cooper also accounted for 10 tackles for loss.

David Perno has been the coach for the past five seasons, and the Gladiators have had no less than seven wins in all those seasons. They have made the playoffs every year under Perno as well, clinching region titles in 2019 and 2020. A 10-1 region record since 2019 bodes well for the program’s future. The loss of talent at major positions could headline much of the offseason talk, as Clarke Central will graduate every 2020 secondary starter. The expectations remain high, however, as sights are set on a third consecutive region championship for Perno and the Gladiators. Clarke Central has proven that they can overcome a loss of talent in years past, and they will have to do so once again in 2021.

WHO’S BACK The biggest return may come defensively, as junior LB Khlye Cowan will look to lead the team in tackles for losses and tackles for the second consecutive year. Defensive tackle Dailen Howard may prove to be a force and LB Kahari Dean could be a standout player. Offensively, the most important returns come in the rushing game, as the committee backs William Richardson and Felix Braddy Jr. will figure to guide the offense in 2021. A few players will have to take charge next season at key positions. QB Lucian Anderson III will have to step in to replace Robinson, while Antonio Jewell will have to haul in more receptions as the team’s leading wide receiver.

Skill position losses will hurt the Gladiators a lot. Expect a second round playoff loss.

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REGION 1 - 5A

COFFEE

AUG

Drew

Bainbridge

SEPT

@ Houston County

Salem

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Brandon Pham

overall record 10

407

3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

175

Head Coach: Robby Pruitt

WHAT TO EXPECT As long as Pruitt is roaming the Coffee sideline as the head coach, the Trojans will always be a contender. That’s the way it’s been since he arrived at Coffee 10 years ago, and with the talent he has coming back this season, things won’t change. The only big question mark is replacing Wilkerson as quarterback, but elsewhere Coffee will be just fine. A lot of talent returns on both sides of the ball, and that’ll be enough for Pruitt to build from. The team is loaded with returning experience, and with an experienced coach calling the shots, it will be interesting to see how far this 2021 Coffee squad can go.

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@ Glynn Academy

SEPT

Camden County

OCT

Ware County

OCT

@ Wayne County

OCT

@ Veterans

OCT

Warner Robins

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

OCT

Maurice Turner, who Pruitt says “can do everything” will return to the Trojan offense. He’ll line up at running back, at quarterback in the wildcat and slot. Running backs Brady Skipper and Antwain McDuffie will return. Senior wideouts Zay Xavion Simpson and Matthew Adams are back, but who will throw to them? Pruitt says senior Justin Swords will have a shot at claiming the starting position, but sophomore Maurice Turner will provide some healthy competition for the job, as well. Swords was in line for substantial playing time last year until tearing ligaments in his throwing hand last year during Coffee’s intra-squad game. Linemen Cole Edge, Jacob Strom, Dane Rish and BJ Reed all return up front. Defensively, starting linebackers Anthony Gaskin, Trejan Landers, and Brandon High are all returning.

KEY LOSSES The Trojans’ head coach Robby Pruitt will be faced with filling some big shoes this offseason. The good news is that it’s mostly on the defensive side of the ball. There are a couple of big offensive pieces that Coffee will miss, and it starts with A.J. Wilkerson, who was a three-year starter at quarterback. A couple of targets that Wilkerson looked to last season are also gone. They are tight ends Luke Waldron and Peyton Wheeles. Guard Parker Mullis has graduated, also. On defense, the losses are many. Among them are starting corners Travaris Jackson and Brian Colbert and defensive ends Arlis Sutton and Wheeles. Linemen Zyshon Reed and Jalell Graves will also depart by way of graduation.

Expect big things from Coffee: a trip to the semifinals.

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REGION 3 - 5A

CREEKSIDE

AUG

@ Grayson

Westlake

SEPT

@ Cartersville

@ Drew

SEPT Tri-Cities

SEPT

@ Forest Park

OCT Banneker

OCT

@ Mundy’s Mill

OCT Jonesboro

NOV

@ Woodward Academy

WHO’S BACK 2020 STATS overall record 7

Wins 288

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

196

Head Coach: Maurice Dixon

WHAT TO EXPECT Head coach Maurice Dixon is very confident about his team heading into the 2021 season. “We’re Creekside, our expectations are to win a state title,” he said. The Seminoles have so much talent coming back in 2021, according to Dixon. “We got some good young guys on the offensive line,” Dixon said. “We’re going to play great defense, and our passing game is going to be a lot better. It has been good, but it could win some games for us this year.” The Seminoles will face a tough schedule both in and out of region play, but fans should expect an exciting season this year.

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The Seminoles are returning a lot of talent on both offense and defense. Offensively, quarterback Nyqua Lett threw for 956 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2020. Lett added 596 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground. He will be joined in the backfield by running backs Kamauri Davis and Cameron Burch. Davis rushed for 1,036 yards and four scores, and Burch rushed for 497 yards and two scores in 2020. The team’s leading receiver in 2020 was wide receiver Trey Edwards. Edwards will be a senior in 2021. Defensively, MaxPreps All-American safety Roderick McCrary led the team in tackles with 97 total tackles as a freshman. Several Creekside defensive backs and defensive linemen are being highly recruited.

KEY LOSSES All-State offensive linemen Jordan Davis and Jalil Muhammad and offensive lineman Rahyiem Rowe have signed to play college football. Davis is committed to play football at South Carolina, Muhammad is committed to play at Arkansas State, and Rowe is committed to play at Southern Illinois. Defensive end Dennard Flowers was named the Region 3-5A Defensive Player of the Year. Flowers committed to play football at Arkansas State alongside Muhammad. Running back Jamond Lee rushed for 637 yards and 12 touchdowns as a senior. Wide receiver Wesley Campbell was the team’s second-leading receiver in 2020. Campbell recorded 227 yards receiving and five touchdowns. Defensively, linebacker Lenorris Robinson was the team’s second-leading tackler. Robinson recorded 88 total tackles and 11 tackles for loss.

The Seminoles will win the state title in 2021.

DUTCHTOWN

REGION 4 - 5A

AUG

@ Tift County

Lanier

SEPT

Douglas County

Ola

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of gpb.org

overall record Wins

192

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

147

@ Union Grove

OCT

Eagle’s Landing

OCT

@ Woodland Stockbridge (Stockbridge)

OCT

@ Locust Grove

NOV

@ Jones County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 6

OCT

Head Coach: Clifford Fedd

WHO’S BACK Starting middle linebacker Dwight Johnson will be returning for his junior season. Johnson has a lot of speed and high motor that helps him disrupt plays quickly. The coaching staff at Dutchtown is excited to see what Johnson will do this season. For the offense, all eyes will be on quarterback Bryce Clavon this season, as he takes over for Fedd. Clavon did get some playing time last season, but this will be the first time he will be entering the season as the starter, and for a team with playoff expectations, the pressure will be on the young signal-caller.

Anytime a team loses its senior quarterback, there will be a lot of adjustments that need to be made. Gone is a very talented player at the position, but so is the experience and knowledge of the offense, which may be what Dutchtown will miss the most from Fedd. Combined losing the quarterback and one of the most dynamic playmakers at the wide receiver position, it may be a slow start for the Bulldogs. Expect Dutchtown to be a run-heavy team that relies on a very good defense lead by Johnson and a veteran group on the front seven. Dutchtown may not blow teams away at first, but they have playoff experience, and in a division with several teams with first-year coaches, they have a chance to use their experience to their advantage.

KEY LOSSES The Dutchtown Bulldogs will be without two of their most explosive players on offense going into this season. Both Arendez Fedd and Shemar Nelson have graduated and will be moving on to play at the collegiate level, with Fedd committing to Kennesaw State University and Nelson is going to Allen University. Fedd was a dynamic runner at the quarterback position for the Bulldogs last year, and his production on the field will be difficult to replace. On the defensive side of the ball, Dutchtown will be without one of their starting cornerbacks from last season, Jayden Mosley, who helped the bulldogs defense hold opposing teams to a touchdown or less in four of their games last season.

I believe Dutchtown will make the playoffs, but they may struggle against teams with a lot of size and strength.

ITG Next | 103

REGION 2 - 5A

GRIFFIN

AUG

@ Spalding

AUG

@ Lowndes

SEPT

Peach County

@ Lovejoy

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of gpb.org

overall record 7

Losses

259

Points Scored

253

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Rusty Easom

WHAT TO EXPECT Defensive coordinator, Ryan Andrews, who filled in as Griffin’s interim head coach, says that the Bears have “a lot of experience coming back.” The Bears lost some good players, but they could have enough experience on both sides of the ball to be a force this year instead of a team that is trying to rebuild. Don’t be surprised, however, if the Bears’ record suffers this year if the team is unable to fill in the major holes that have been left on both offense and defense. Andrews believes this team will be capable of competing for the region title this year. It is sometimes hard to tell how well a team will do before the season begins, but Andrews and the Bears are ready to “compete for a region title and let the chips fall where they may.”

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McIntosh

OCT

@ Whitewater

OCT

Northside (Columbus)

OCT

Starr’s Mill

OCT

@ Northgate

OCT

@ Harris County

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The Bears are returning nearly all their offensive linemen. Linebacker/defensive end Donovan Westmoreland led the team with 84 total tackles and 12 sacks last year. Nickelback Jacob Hammonds was third on the team in total tackles. Hammonds is committed to play football at Marshall. Linebacker Zavius Buffin was fourth on the team in total tackles. Defensive back Craig Woods returned two interceptions for touchdowns as a sophomore. Offensively, the Bears have three wide receivers coming back in Cameron Kelsey, Terrance Elliot, and Jaleel Chambliss. Chambliss led the receivers with 361 yards receiving and six touchdown receptions off 26 receptions in 2020.

KEY LOSSES The Bears have lost four starting defensive backs from 2020’s secondary: Jordan Favors, Brandon Calloway, Prince Green and Jeffrey Johnson. Calloway has signed to play at Purdue, Green has signed to play at Illinois, and Favors has signed to play at Appalachian State. Losing four starters—three of which will be playing Division I football in the fall—will surely be a hurdle for the team to overcome in 2021. Defensive end Davari Wright is another player the Bears will be without in 2021. Wright was a two-year starter for the Bears. Offensive lineman Gerald Pope was a two-year starter as well. Quarterback/wide receiver Quamari Williams will leave a big offensive hole to fill. Williams started at quarterback for the Bears in 10th grade and as a senior.

The Bears almost gave up more points than they scored last year, and that was with three Division I-caliber players in their secondary. The defense will have a tougher time this year, and the Bears’ record will reflect that. Griffin may lose a couple of more games in 2021 than last season.

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DUAL ENROLLMENT STAR PLAYER

MITCHELL COUNTY DEFENSIVE TACKLE

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HARRIS COUNTY

REGION 2 - 5A

AUG

@ Troup

Perry

SEPT

@ Upson-Lee

Newnan

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of ledger-enquirer.com

overall record Wins

249 223

Starr’s Mill

OCT

@ Northgate

OCT McIntosh

OCT

@ Northside (Columbus)

OCT Griffin

NOV

@ Whitewater

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 6

SEPT

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Jamie Fox

WHO’S BACK Returning starters for Harris County are plentiful, starting with first-team All-Region QB Cooper Corey. Running backs K.D. Hutchinson and John Austin Cochran will also return, providing a nice boost in the ground game. First-team All-Region offensive lineman Jesse Geter will start once again in 2021. On defense, the Tigers can count on Malachi Youman, who paced the junior class with 103 tackles last season. Free safety Jadon Smith also provides a solid presence, as he often plays near the box to stop opposing rush offenses. Junior defensive back (Thaddous) “Thad” Askew Jr. and junior linebacker Brock Swords will help to solidify the back end of the Tiger defense, preventing passes over the middle.

Here’s the good news: The Tigers have made the playoffs the last four consecutive years. The bad news is: They have not made it past the first round. Harris County could greatly increase their odds of winning in the first round by ranking higher in their region. They came somewhat close at that in 2020 but lost three region games by within 7 points to bump them down to a fourth-seed. With a mostly stable offense and a growing defense, the Tigers have a legitimate shot to reach the second round and maybe even the quarterfinals. Expect them to build up momentum in non-region play, setting them up for success against tougher region opponents like Griffin and Starr’s Mill.

KEY LOSSES Harris County is in good hands for the future offensively, as only wide receivers Marcus Dumas and JT Vinson graduated in 2021. The defense, however, will be hit a little harder. On the defensive line, the Tigers will lose David Emfinger and Braden Wortham, who combined for 154 tackles in 2020. Linebacker Wilbur Ramos will be a huge loss, as he had an excellent 2020 campaign with 106 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and six sacks. All those stats were team highs. The secondary will take some hits too, as Braxton Bray and Josh Trice will graduate. The offense overall remains consistent for 2021, but the defense will need to switch some players up.

Optimistically, I project an 8-4 record for the Tigers as they only lose twice in region and reach the second round of the state playoffs.

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REGION 4 - 5A

JONES COUNTY

AUG

Northeast

@ North Gwinnett

SEPT Veterans

SEPT

@ Union Grove

SEPT Stockbridge

OCT

@ Locust Grove

WHAT TO EXPECT Jones County has started to take off. Their past two seasons have been marked by semifinals appearances after not having one 10-win season from 1929 to 2013. However, they’ve failed to get beyond that playoff round. They have had the benefit of favorable early-round opponents, which may not continue in 2021. With an experienced quarterback, expect Jones County’s offense to be slightly improve. The Greyhound defense should be better than in 2020 with a young, returning secondary. While they may only lose a game or two in the regular season, they will still find a challenging opponent in the playoffs, likely in the quarterfinals or semifinals.

KEY LOSSES Losses start at the top for the Greyhounds. Running back Andrew Carner graduated, having contributed a lot to the Jones County offense. He is gone along with leading receiver Maleek Wooten and the somewhat-used Jaylon Clark. The offensive line will lose first-team all-region selection Matt Adams. Luckily for the Greyhounds, the front seven won’t take too much of a hit. The biggest loss will be Region Defensive Player of the Year Deon Richardson at linebacker. Linebackers JaVorius Venerable and Charles Gooden also graduated. The secondary is almost entirely made up of younger athletes, so the future looks promising for Jones County in that department.

I predict a 11-2 season with a quarterfinals appearance.

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OCT

@ Ola

@ Eagle’s Landing

SEPT

Woodland (Stockbridge)

NOV Dutchtown

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photo courtesy of Jones County Recruits via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record 10

Wins 475

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

330

Head Coach: Mike Chastain

WHO’S BACK

Jones County will likely lean on QB John Alan Richter as they did in 2020. Javious Bond will make a return as the team’s lead back after rushing for over 500 yards last season. The Greyhounds’ freshman sensation WR Zion Ragins will return along with Tucker Mix and Keagan Baxter. The defense will benefit from the presence of two-way players. Running back Connor Bass and Bond have defensive roles as well, with Bond playing as a defensive back. Bond will get help from young secondary teammates in Javion Clark, Kenny Wooten, and Jitavius Whipple. Kenny’s brother, Will Wooten, will assist on the defensive line, hoping to stop opposing rush offenses.

OLA

REGION 4 - 5A

AUG

@ Jackson

AUG

@ North Oconee

SEPT

@ Dutchtown

Spalding

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of henryherald.com

overall record 9

390

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

187

@ Woodland (Stockbridge)

OCT

Union Grove

OCT

Jones County

OCT Stockbridge

OCT

@ Eagle’s Landing

NOV

Locust Grove

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

Head Coach: Ryan Angel

WHO’S BACK Ola will have a ton of talent returning this season, including several key skill position players. That group includes senior quarterback Jake Hall, who defines what a true “dual threat” quarterback is. Originally a strong safety, Hall switched to quarterback, with last season his first as a true starter. The converted signal-caller threw for 946 yards and 11 touchdowns last season while adding 888 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Lining up behind Hall will be senior running back Micah Bell, who has amassed 1,355 career rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns. Fellow rusher and junior Naziq Dahniya returns after a productive sophomore season that saw him rush for 524 yards on 91 carries. Another junior receiver, Jaden Barnes, will be back. Last season saw Barnes catch 37 passes for 398 yards.

We mentioned earlier that the previous head coach Jared Zito, who coached the Mustangs from 2014 through last season, has departed Ola,, but has left the program in good hands, as Ryan Angel takes over the head coaching duties. Angel was an assistant at Loganville, and will look to keep the winning ways going. The Mustangs advanced to their first playoff win in school history last season, so Angel is looking to keep the playoff hopes alive in 2021. He certainly inherits a great group of athletes, and several starters from last season, so things looked really good the day he took over. Having the starting quarterback, top running backs, along with starting noseguard Kendrick McDaniel returning is a plus for any team. Ola will be picked to be a top 10 team this year in most statewide polls.

KEY LOSSES Notably, head coach of the Mustangs since 2014, Jared Zito, has moved on to Southeast Bulloch, where he will take over the Yellow Jackets head coach position. Taking over as head coach is Ryan Angel. There aren’t many overall player losses for the Mustangs, but there are a couple of offensive linemen whose services will be missed up front. Otis Coleman Jr. and Nelson Kinsey were each three-year starters, with Kinsey being recognized as an All-Region and All-State performer last season. Another three-year starter and defensive back that will be missed is Legend Doggett. Other losses from the Mustangs include linebacker Azariah Bell and lineman Devin Lee, who committed to Vanderbilt last December. Receiver Freddie Felton will also not return.

Another playoff win . . . and not just one. Ola makes a deep run into playoffs in 2021.

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REGION 5 - 5A

SOUTHWEST DEKALB

AUG

@ Stockbridge

AUG

@ Stephenson

SEPT

Lithia Springs

SEPT

Tucker

Lithonia

OCT

@ St. Pius X

WHAT TO EXPECT After a 10-1 campaign in 2018, the Panthers’ win total drastically declined. Much of this can be attributed to reclassification, which put Southwest DeKalb in a slightly more difficult region. Nevertheless, 2021 could be a bounceback year. The Panthers return a large portion of their team and this chemistry could help them win key region games against M.L. King and Decatur. Expect this team to pick up where they left off last year, equally giving the passing and rushing offenses a chance to flourish. The secondary should hold its ground next year and produce more interceptions without a shortened season like in 2020. There is a good chance that SWD makes it past the first round of playoffs for the first time since 2017.

WHO’S BACK Southwest DeKalb will have a plethora of returning players on both sides of the football. QBs Sabian Campbell and Sadir Ryan will battle again in 2021 after both played in 2020. The Panthers use a running-back-by-committee backfield, and Billy Johnson and James Caswell will fill those roles next year. The receiving game is also wide open with Armond Davis and Kentavius Key returning. On the defensive line, the Panthers will rely on Demaurious Marshall and Akiliss Smith. Both will return for their junior seasons. Jamel Nelson will likely flex in as a linebacker to stop the run. Despite not stuffing the stat sheet, the secondary may be the strength of the defense. Joshua Taylor, Jordan Edwards, Keantae Thornton, and others will return, a good sign for the Panthers.

The Panthers have the potential to make it to the second round of the playoffs.

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OCT

M. L. King

@ Stone Mountain

OCT

NOV

@ Decatur

Northview

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of SWD HS Football via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record Wins

173

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

122

Head Coach: Damien Wimes

KEY LOSSES Southwest DeKalb is a young team offensively. Of all skill positions, they only lose one player: WR Robert Grady. The Panthers don’t lose much up front either. The defense, however, is a different story. Southwest DeKalb loses their top three tacklers in DE Caleb Grant, DT Anthony Lovett, and LB/SS Darrionque Finkley. Defensive linemen Tory Jones and Ethan Dumas also graduated. The secondary did not intercept many passes last season, but with most of it returning, they will likely have more opportunities next year. The only secondary player to graduate besides Finkley is Kevin Morgan.

DUAL ENROLLMENT STAR PLAYER

TIFTAREA MIDDLE LINEBACKER

ITG Next | 111

STARR’S MILL

AUG Newnan

AUG

Mt. Zion (Jonesboro)

SEPT Union Grove

REGION 2 - 5A

SEPT

@ Sandy Creek

SEPT

@ Harris County

OCT Northgate

OCT

@ Griffin

OCT

@ Whitewater

OCT McIntosh

NOV

Northside (Columbus)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of kombatkamera.com

WHAT TO EXPECT Starr’s Mill has quietly been one of the most successful teams in Georgia high school football over the last 25 years under coach Phillips. His defense last season was the most successful in school history, giving up just 89 points, and the team has now advanced to nine straight postseasons. This season should be more of the same, with many returning contributors from last year’s Sweet 16 team. The Panthers will also be going for their sixth straight region title, and Phillips says anything less would be a disappointment. “We fully expect to do it [win the region] again,” Phillips said. Not only is the talent going to be there for Starr’s Mill, but the team has increased their max efforts in the weight room, so look for the combination of skill and strength to make Starr’s Mill a lock for another deep playoff run.

KEY LOSSES Gone are three key offensive linemen from last season’s Sweet 16 team. They are Cole Sanders, Dalton Koth, and Joseph Rampey, who signed with Berry College. The defense loses both starting corners from last season in Jonathon Higle, who led the team in interceptions last season, and Nate Kearns. All-State middle linebacker Wes Haney has graduated, and All-Region and All-State Safety Cole Bishop is gone. Bishop is already at Utah, where head coach Chad Phillips says he’s quickly moving up the depth chart with the Utes. The special teams take a hit with the loss of kicker Connor Marke and twoyear starting punter Gavin Necessary.

A strong case for a state championship in 2021.

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins 280

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Chad Phillips

WHO’S BACK Starr’s Mill brings back a lot of talent from last season’s nine-win team, and that should make Panthers fans smile. Back is junior quarterback William Yarbrough, who will be starting his second straight year. All three running backs are coming back. They are senior Brandon Mathis, sophomore Dorsey Benefield, and junior Greigh Joseph. On the defensive side of the ball, safety Marc Stampley returns, and Phillips says he expects the senior defensive back to be one of the team’s leaders on and off the field. Two others expected to be impact players on the defensive side of the ball are defensive end Barrett Schmidlkofer and lineman Micaiah Shaber, who was an All-Region and GACA All-State selection last year.

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REGION 4 - 5A

AUG

Southwest DeKalb

AUG

@ Douglas County

SEPT

@ Locust Grove

SEPT

@ Jones County

SEPT

@ Vidalia

STOCKBRIDGE

OCT

Woodland (Stockbridge)

WHAT TO EXPECT The Tigers go into this season with a new head coach in Thomas Clark, although he has been with the school for nearly a decade, he looks to make an impact in his first year. Coach Clark’s first order of business was to revamp the offense, moving from the wing-T into the spread, which should utilize their players size and speed much better. Look for the Tigers to still be a run first and often team, but the new style of offense may bring Stockbridge back to its winning ways, after missing the playoffs last season. Where this team is likely to struggle is on the defensive side of the ball, but with new defensive coaches, they still may be better than last year.

WHO’S BACK Probably the biggest piece for the Tigers this year will be sophomore running back Jayden Scott, who will be the featured back in the new offense. Scott got a lot of playing time as a freshman, and he will be looking to have a breakout year behind a solid offensive line and the Tigers’ run heavy offensive approach. On the Outside, Bryce Bonner will be tasked with filling the role left by Devion Newson. Bonner resembles Newson in both height and weight. The Tigers will hope to get similar production from the rising senior. Shelton Lewis will be tasked with helping this young defense improve from last year. The junior safety had a solid spring practice and looks to lead the secondary as one of its veteran starters going into this season.

With a young team, new head coach, and new offensive scheme, I expect the Tigers to be more competitive than last year.

OCT

OCT @ Ola

Dutchtown

OCT

NOV

@ Union Grove

Eagle’s Landing

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of mdjonline.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

218

Points Scored Points Allowed

277

Head Coach: Thomas Clark

KEY LOSSES Going into this season, the Tigers will be without wide receiver and safety Devion Newson, who is going to play for Clark Atlanta University in the fall. Newson had great size on the perimeter and used it to his advantage when blocking, in Stockbridge’s run-heavy offense. The defense will be the most impacted this season, with the Tigers already struggling on that side of the ball a year ago, losing two players in the secondary is not going to help. Mekhi Brewton, who played safety and Braxton Seward played cornerback. Overall, these losses will be tough, but Stockbridge was a young team last year and had a lot of guys get valuable experience. That may help them fill the role of the players that are leaving.

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UNION GROVE

AUG

@ Hampton

Spalding

REGION 4 - 5A

SEPT

@ Starr’s Mill

Jones County

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photo courtesy of Union Grove High Football Prospects via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record Wins

283

Points Scored

259

Losses

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Casey Smith

WHO’S BACK Even with losing one of their best players, the Wolverines are set to bring back their other star running back, Dechavion Williams Jr., who carried the ball almost as effectively as Blackwell last season. Head coach Casey Smith expects Williams to have a big year and help carry his team back to another playoff berth. Quarterback Quinton Griffin will also be back and will be looking to add on to an already solid start to his high school career. Griffin, a dual-threat quarterback carried the ball effectively as needed throughout the season, and as the Wolverines started winning, his rushing yards went up, showing that he can lead his team as a young player.

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SEPT Dutchtown

OCT @ Ola

OCT

Eagle’s Landing

OCT

@ Locust Grove

OCT

NOV

@ Woodland Stockbridge (Stockbridge)

WHAT TO EXPECT The Wolverines will be introducing a new offense this season, bringing in two new coaches to handle the change. “I don’t want to give away too much, but I will say this, you may see us come out in five-wide and maybe even some two tight end formations this year,” said Smith. This is a huge change for Smith’s second season as head coach, as they are seemingly transitioning from a traditional Wing T style offense into more of a spread offense, which can be seen in many high school programs across the country. Smith also hinted at there being more of a running back by committee, even with talented running back Williams. Look for The Wolverines to spread the field and wear down opposing defenses with multiple backs and their mobile quarterback.

KEY LOSSES The Wolverines will go into this season without one of their best players from a year ago, Jaylen Blackwell, who is taking his talents to Boston College. The standout running back carried the load down the stretch for Union Grove and is a big reason for their late push into the playoffs, with four rushing touchdowns in the final five games during the regular season. Another key loss is on the offensive line, Buck Barrett, who opened up big running lanes all year. On the defensive side of the ball, Union Grove will be without big 6-foot-5inch 230-pound defensive end Jorel Gunsby, who helped stop the opposing rushing attack and got after the quarterback in the passing game.

I expect Union Grove to finish the season and make the playoffs for the fourth straight season.

VETERANS

REGION 1 - 5A

AUG

Northside (WR)

@ West Laurens

SEPT

@ Jones County

SEPT Perry

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

overall record Wins

192 194

Oconee County

OCT

@ Houston County

OCT

@ Wayne County

OCT Coffee

OCT

Ware County

NOV

@ Warner Robins

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 4

SEPT

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Milan Turner

WHO’S BACK Senior Jarrett Pierce will return, and Turner says he will more than likely become the team’s new quarterback. “Jarrett was our H-back and linebacker last season, but he worked some at quarterback as a freshman and sophomore,” said Turner. There are two linemen who return on the offensive line: seniors Alex Harvey and CJ Hendrix. On the defense, Luke Mathis returns at linebacker, as does junior Jaron Benjamin, who Turner says will be looked to lead the ‘Hawks defense this season. Senior defensive linemen Noah Lyles and Deondre Kennedy will return.

Things could be tough this season with so much talent gone, and a brutal schedule that many rank as one of the Top 5 toughest in the state. Turner says his approach will be to focus on getting his guys back together after missing so much time last year due to COVID-19, and to get everyone stronger every day this offseason. “We are going to just take it one day at a time, and really work hard in the OTA’s,” Turner said. With an inexperienced player at quarterback, and so many skill players gone, the gun option offense could have problems scoring points.

KEY LOSSES To say that head coach Milan Turner’s Veterans squad loses a lot is no exaggeration. The Warhawks will lose almost every starting skill position player and most of the offensive line. The list includes All-Region quarterback and three-year starter Blake Ethridge. His main targets, receivers Justin McCarty and Nate Boehm are off to play collegiately. McCarty is going to Campbell University, and Boehm is headed to Mercer. Running back Lebron Fields, who was a three-year starter and All-Region selection in each of those years, is gone. Linemen Jack Rowland and Reed Wallace will not be back, with Rowland headed to Charleston Southern. Joining him at Charleston Southern will be cornerback Kam Smith. His twin brother and safety Kedrek Smith is off to the Air Force to continue his playing career. All-State Kicker/punter Daniel Gibbs, a three-year starter, graduated, as did free safety Daniel Ekwese, who will play at Butler Community College. Another three-year starter, defensive tackle Ryan Perez, has departed the War Hawks.

Turner finds a way to keep his team competitive, and the Warhawks win the same amount of games as last season in 2021.

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REGION 1 - 5A

WARNER ROBINS

AUG

@ Archer

Valdosta

AUG

SEPT

Northside (WR)

SEPT

@ Houston County

SEPT

Lee County

OCT

@ Camden County

OCT

@ Ware County

OCT

Wayne County

OCT

@ Coffee

NOV Veterans

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: ITG Next

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 13

Wins 551

1 Losses Points Scored

The Warner Robins Demons have been one of the most successful programs in the state over the last five years, with four straight trips to the state finals. They finally won the title last year, and Demons fans aren’t ready for the fun to end. They will certainly have enough talent returning to have a shot at making another run this season, despite losing some top-notch talent.

Points Allowed

216

Head Coach: Marquis Westbrook

WHO’S BACK Returning this season on offense will be senior linemen Chancellor Brooks, Noah Stovall, and Jose Gonzales. Senior receiver Daveon Walker and junior running back Malcolm Brown will also be back. Despite the loss of Addie, the Demons are fortunate to have quarterback Christon Lane returning. He and Addie split time at the signal caller position last season, but the job will primarily be Lane’s this season. Defensively, tackles Victor Burley and Chayce Smith will return, as will Corey “Deuce” Petty at safety. Linebacker Montrez Dinkins returns too.

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KEY LOSSES The defending state champions will lose several key playmakers that were responsible for a lot of the Demons success last year, and the seasons before that. The group includes quarterback Jalen Addie, who also starred on the defensive side as a safety. His high school career ends with 4,601 passing yards and 48 touchdowns. Running back Jahlen Rutherford leaves behind 3,550 rushing yards and over 500 receiving yards. Receivers Armon Porter and Kaleb Howard will also be missed. Defensively, Warner Robins will see several playmakers depart with graduation. The players include safety Xavier Hill, line backers Ahmad Walker and Demarcious Robinson, and linemen Santanna Willis and Javar Jordan.

Warner Robins will likely make another deep run in the playoffs.

REGION 1 - 5A

AUG

@ Statesboro

AUG

Pierce County

SEPT

Richmond Hill

SEPT

@ South Effingham

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photo courtesy of Wayne County Touchdown Club via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record Wins

206

Losses Points Scored

303

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Ken Cribb

KEY LOSSES Wayne County is losing a lot of talent on defense this year. All-State linebacker Trevin Wallace, AllState offensive lineman Weston Franklin, linebacker Gray Davis, and offensive lineman/defensive lineman Camden Williams will not be returning for the Yellow Jackets. Wallace will be playing at the University of Kentucky this fall, Franklin is headed for GA Tech, Davis is going to play rugby at UGA, and Williams will likely compete in track at college, as he was a top discus thrower in the GHSA.

SEPT

@ Benedictine

WAYNE COUNTY

SEPT

@ Appling County

OCT

Veterans

Coffee

OCT

@ Warner Robins

NOV

@ Ware County

WHAT TO EXPECT “I’m excited about our whole line, from tight end to tight end, and the group of running backs we have coming back,” head coach Ken Cribb said. “I’m also excited about the experience we’ll have on defense. We’re going to be able to compete even though we play one of the toughest schedules in the state.” The Yellow Jackets struggled last season, and they have lost several excellent players, but the future isn’t dark for them. With all the talent returning, the Yellow Jackets will be able to compete more in 2021. However, they are going to need to do a good job of replacing some great linebackers in Wallace and Davis to improve upon their 2020 record.

WHO’S BACK As far as players coming back for the 2021 season, Wayne County has plenty of them. Leading the group are linebacker/running back Tavoris Wilkins Jr.—he is being recruited by South Florida, Troy and GA Southern—and All-State offensive lineman Owen Spell, a 6-foot-6.5-inch, 312-pound senior being recruited by East Carolina, Troy and a few other schools. Additionally, both safeties in Elijah Jones and Chris Pittman, and both cornerbacks in Dezmon Hartzog and Garrison Keith are coming back. Joining them once again on defense are defensive end Malik Tillman and defensive lineman Demetrius Everett. Offensively, the Yellow Jackets are returning center Miles Starling, offensive lineman Jake Trebil, tight end Micheal Shaver, wide receiver Terrione Graves, and quarterback Tommie Weatherspoon.

The Yellow Jackets will fall short of the playoffs in 2021, but their experience on offense and defense will allow them to win more than they did last season.

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REGION 7 - 5A

WOODLAND (CARTERSVILLE)

AUG

Gordon Central

@ Osborne

SEPT

Hebron Christian Academy

SEPT

North Springs

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of woodlandmagnet.com

overall record Wins

130

Losses Points Scored

201

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Tony Plott

WHO’S BACK Despite winning only four games last year, 2020 was one of the better seasons for the Wildcats. They show no signs of defeating the marquee teams in their region like Blessed Trinity and Cartersville, but a playoff spot is not entirely out of the question. Woodland will lose a lot of seniors, but 2021 may be a good year for the Wildcats in record only. As a team though, they will likely regress from last year. If they can beat Hiram and Cass, they will secure a playoff spot. However, that may not be a possibility in the near future.

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@ Chamblee

OCT

Blessed Trinity

OCT @ Cass

OCT

@ Calhoun

OCT Cartersville

OCT

@ Hiram

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 4

SEPT

The Wildcats will likely rely on Brayden Pope or Brelace Williams at QB, both of whom are rising juniors. Christiaan Vera or Jaeden Smith could get the start at RB, and Jonah Plott, Caleb Jones, and Jack Webb will be crucial in the receiving game. The offensive line will get some help with Jacob Starns, Champ Higdon, and Garrett Thomas, all of whom are over 6 feet tall. Preston Robertson, Ethan Dean, and Tobias Sanchez will have a large impact on both the offensive and defensive line next season. Linebackers Asher Jernigan and Bryson Posey will also be key in run defense. Posey also serves as the team’s punter. Hansel Smith and Lawson Bennett should assist in pass coverage in the secondary.

KEY LOSSES The Wildcats lose QBs Quinn Teeples, Jakob Foss, and Johnathan Thomas. Additionally, RBs Jimmy Davis, Eli Jernigan, and Tristan Langley have graduated. Pass catchers JT Hampton, Carter Heath, and Bryant Knox have also graduated, leaving holes all over the offense. Possibly the biggest loss is OT Nick Bailey, the only offensive First Team All-Region selection for Woodland. Woodland will lose Zach Good, Joseph Mulkey, Jovani Jacob, and others on the defensive line. The Wildcats will also lose some linebackers, further hurting the defense. The secondary will remain mainly intact, with only Tyler Thurman graduating. The quantity of seniors leaving will certainly hurt in a tough region that will feature Blessed Trinity, Cartersville, and Calhoun.

I predict the Wildcats lose a few more games in 2021 than they did last season.

REGION 3 - 5A

AUG

ELCA

Hapeville

SEPT @ Marist

SEPT

@ Mundy’s Mill

SEPT

@ Banneker

WOODWARD ACADEMY

OCT Jonesboro

OCT

@ Drew

@ Forest Park

OCT

NOV

Tri-Cities

Creekside

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of woodward.edu

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

This team has a lot of size and speed across the board and Alston will likely continue his dominant performances as he has done his entire high school career. Look for this team to run the ball effectively and get him as many touches as possible. Quarterback Jalen Woods will likely get the start, replacing Snellings from last year. He is a solid prospect with a lot of hype around him going into this season. Their defense returns some very good players, and even with some of their best from last season heading to play on Saturdays, they are a talented group that should be able to make a push for the playoffs.

overall record 7

Wins

290

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

206

Head Coach: John Hunt

KEY LOSSES

WHO’S BACK

Woodward Academy’s defense will line up this season without two very good football players in Errington Truesdell and Khari Gee. Truesdell was a force in the middle of the defense last season, totaling over 100 tackles and eventually signing to play for Vanderbilt in the fall. Gee will be moving on to play at Notre Dame, and his presence at the safety position will be missed this season for the War Eagles. On offense, the War Eagles will be without quarterback Banks Snelling, who led the team to the second round of the playoffs in his senior campaign. These players helped Woodward to only lose one region game last season, and their experience will be difficult to replace.

With Woodward’s defense losing key players from last season, they will need to find players to replace their leadership and production. Spencer Snipe will likely be the key to their defense, totaling over 80 tackles and four sacks last season. He will need to have a great season in order for Woodward to make a return to the playoffs. The War Eagles most important piece on offense is Damari Alston, who has been recruited by some of the top collegiate programs in the country. Last season, he totaled over 1,500 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns. He is a fast, physical back, and this offense will flow through him. Look for him to touch the ball whenever possible.

I expect this team to do well in regular season.

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Written by: Dhruv Mohan

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS

Holden Geriner Benedictine 2,770 YDs

David Renard Flowery Branch 2,655 YDS

Owen Brooker Northwest Whitfield 2,276 YDS

Malaki Starks Jefferson 1,537 YDS

Taeo Todd Troup County 1,457 YDS

Jordan Moultrie Hardaway 1,325 YDS

Clete Cooper

Jaiden Credle

East Hall 2,197 YDS

Carver-Columbus 823 YDS

prepsportsreport.com

TW: Malaki Starks

GAMES TO WATCH Rabun Co. @ Jefferson

Marist @ Blessed Trinity

Carver-Columbus @ Troup

Rabun County has thrived under QB Gunner Stockton, likely a Top 3 player in the state of Georgia. They compete in 2A but may prove a challenge for the 4A state runner-up. A difference in play style highlights this battle; Rabun County passes the ball prolifically, and Jefferson prefers to run the ball with Malaki Starks. Expect a high-scoring affair in which the last team to maintain possession wins. Additionally, this very well could be a preview of a 2A state champion vs. 4A state champion in 2021. This is likely to be one of the most fun games to watch regardless of classification statewide.

Blessed Trinity is 4-1 all-time against Marist, but four of those games have featured scores only three points or less apart. Also, Blessed Trinity defeated Marist for the 2017 4A state championship, and the War Eagles are yet to get revenge for that defeat. The Titans are led by the dynamic duo of JC French and Justice Haynes, who will certainly face a tall task against a Marist defense that pitched eight shutouts in 2020. Will Marist finally get the upper hand on a Blessed Trinity program under its first new head coach since 2011?

This is one of the few region matchups in 4A that features two Top-10 teams. Carver-Columbus has won the last eight matchups against Troup, but their 2020 game featured a 32-29 score. While the Carver-Columbus Tigers will certainly be favored, the Troup Tigers could pull off the upset and win Region 2-4A, a huge step forward towards a deep playoff run. This matchup could be one that sparks momentum for one team, and that could be the key towards a successful season for one of the Tigers.

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IMPACT CHANGES Hardaway will operate under new head coach Corey Thompson. The Golden Hawks feature five-star DL Mykel Williams and other stars primed to break out in 2021. East Hall will also feature new coach Matt Turner after just two years of former head coach Michael Perry. The Vikings have not made it past the second round of playoffs since 1993. The Jenkins Warriors will also move on from their previous coach relatively quickly, hiring Tony Welch just one season after hiring Gene Clemons. Compared to other classifications, 4A does not have many transfers or coaching changes, meaning that teams from last year may return to dominance in 2021.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Camerin Marshall

Ray Morrison

Perry 145 TKS

Northwest Whitfield 915 YDs

Jared Fuller

Braxton Johnson

Perry 115 TKS

Bainbridge 898 YDs

Isaiah Brown

Zaquan Bryan

Luella 108 TKS

Benedictine 710 YDs

Zion Ragins

Price Massey

Benedictine 693 YDs

Perry 105 TKS

maxpreps.com

TW: Ray Morrison

TOP TEN RANKINGS 4A

2 Marist

6 Cedartown

3 Jefferson

Benedictine

7 Cairo

Flowery Branch

4 Carver-Columbus

Bainbridge

10 Hardaway

Troup

ITG Next | 121

REGION 1 - 4A

BAINBRIDGE

AUG

@ Coffee

SEPT Valdosta

SEPT

@ Thomasville

SEPT

Ware County

OCT @ Cairo

OCT Dougherty

KEY LOSSES The Bearcats will miss running back Rashad Broadnax and hisnear 1400 yard rushing effort (he came within 10 yards with 1390 for the season). The All-State player and Region Player of the Year scored a total of 20 touchdowns during his senior season. The All-State RB finished his Bainbridge career with over 3,000 rushing yards. His backfield partner, quarterback Quayde Hawkins will also not return, as he is headed to Troy University to continue his playing career. He will be joined at Troy by departing Bainbridge teammate and offensive lineman Lawson “L.L.” Chandler. On the defensive side of the ball, the Bearcats will miss linebacker Tahari Tate. Head coach Jeff Littleton refers to Tate as “First Team Everything.” The defensive standout finished his senior season with 7.5 sacks and 102 tackles, including 22 tackles for loss.

WHO’S BACK Don’t feel sorry for the Cats. Despite losing some key pieces, Bainbridge returns a load of talent, including leading senior receiver Braxton Johnson. He was an All-Region and All- State selection last season. His receiving mate, Ahmari Borden, also returns. Other offensive returners include fullback Devon Smart, along with linemen Alvin Parker, William McCorkell, and Jeb Logue. The defense returns a good bit of talent also with starting linebackers Dontavious Broadnax and Tevon Moore both returning to lead the defense. Both players were All-Region selections a year ago. Brothers Trey Bowie and Zion Bowie will return to man the defensive backfield for the Bearcats. Returning from injury is standout senior Deyon “Smoke” Bowie, who will play shutdown corner and receiver this season. Nose guard Sesan Edwards will also return.

This could be a special season for Bainbridge football. I predict a trip to the state championship game.

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OCT

Dade Christian (FL)

OCT Westover

OCT

NOV

Thomas County Central

@ Monroe

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

2020 STATS overall record 10

Wins 400 232

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Jeff Littleton

WHAT TO EXPECT Expect big things from Littleton’s Bainbridge football team in 2021. There’s no shortage of talent, and the return of Smoke Bowie may be exactly what Bainbridge needs to take this team to the next level. Littleton doesn’t hide his expectations for the upcoming season. “We have very high expectations for the season,” he said. “We have a lot of veteran leadership returning, and I expect them to lead us on and off the field.” Littleton said the returning senior class were all freshmen when Bainbridge won the state championship. “That group has been very special for Bainbridge football,” says Littleton. “We have competed for either region or state championships here these last few years, and we don’t expect that to change this season.”

BAINBRIDGE MIDDLE LINEBACKER & RUNNING BACK

Presented by:

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RACHAEL DERISO Albany

(229) 485-1306

DAWN CUTCHENS Albany

(229) 485-1277

CHARITY MELTON Albany

(229) 485-1277

BRIAN RICHARDSON Albany

(229) 485-1277

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CLINT LEDGER Americus

(229) 389-2441

LANCE WILSON Bainbridge

(229) 246-1076

JEFF RICH Bainbridge

(229) 246-8212

ADELA FORD Camilla

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(229) 336-0441

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REGION 3 - 4A

AUG

@ Burke County

Christopher Columbus (FL)

SEPT

@ Beaufort (SC)

North Oconee

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of Benedictine Military School via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins 467

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

321

Head Coach: Danny Britt

WHAT TO EXPECT Geriner will become the first Savannah quarterback to sign a scholarship with a Power 5 program in the modern era when he eventually signs a Letter of Intent with Auburn. Thomas said he should form one of the more explosive tandems in the state and other playmakers, like Zaquan Bryan, should fill a void left by Broadnax at receiver. The Cadets shouldn’t struggle with any teams in the Savannah area, and the defense may be just as capable as the offense, especially if younger talents like Bryce Baker and Glover can continue developing alongside the team’s leading tackler in Sapp.

SEPT

Wayne County

BENEDICTINE

SEPT

Ware County

OCT

@ Jenkins

OCT

@ South Effingham

OCT

New Hampstead

OCT Islands

WHO’S BACK A loaded Cadet roster from 2020 is largely returning for 2021 and led by its four-star senior quarterback Holden Geriner, Benedictine figures to contend in the 4A classification once again. An Auburn commit, Geriner (179-264 passing, 2,770 yards, 25 TDs, and 3 INTs in 2020) will start behind center in offensive coordinator AJ DeFilippis’ system for a fourth consecutive year, and he’ll have do-it-all senior Justin Thomas back to help. Thomas is committed to play baseball at the University of Georgia, but the rising senior has plenty of skill on the gridiron too, and he’ll be the main weapon of choice for Geriner. The 5-foot-11-inch, 175-pound Thomas had 1,963 all-purpose yards last season. He rushed for 651 yards and 14 touchdowns while catching 35 passes for 693 yards and seven more scores. As a defensive back, Thomas intercepted a team-high five passes in 2020. Defensively, the 3-4 scheme of the Cadets will be anchored at the second level by linebackers Evan Scarbrough (77 tackles, seven tackles for loss in 2020), Keiran Glover (82 tackles, five tackles for loss) and Holden Sapp (102 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss). Secondary standout Ben Hollerbach (63 tackles) is also back for his senior campaign.

KEY LOSSES Headlining a short list of Cadets not returning for 2021 are the team’s leading receiver Trent Broadnax (1,069 receiving yards) and leading rusher LeShon Brooks Jr (974 rushing yards) from a team which reached the GHSA Class 4A state semifinals. Together, the duo accounted for 2,455 all-purpose yards and 23 total touchdowns last season. Linemen Bryce Pashke, Andrew Defilippis and Brock Seyden are also graduating, leaving behind vacant spots. The Cadets will also look to replace kicker and punter Nick Dillon, who was 7-of-8 on field goals with a long of 44 yards last season as a senior.

It’s difficult to imagine any of the other three schools in the region posing as real threats to the Cadets in Region 3-4A. Look for Benedictine to be in the title conversation all year. The roster is good enough entering the season that fans and foes alike should expect a fifth Final 4 appearance for this program since 2013.

ITG Next | 127

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REGION 1 - 4A

AUG

@ Fitzgerald

Brooks County

SEPT

@ Thomasville

Escambia (FL)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Milla Photography

overall record 5

230 208

Merritt Island (FL)

OCT Bainbridge

OCT

@ Monroe

OCT

Thomas County Central

OCT

@ Dougherty

NOV

@ Westover

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

CAIRO

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Steve DeVoursney

WHAT TO EXPECT DeVoursney says he hopes this year’s team can avoid the slow start that saw them get off to a 0-4 mark. “We dug ourselves a little bit of a hole to start the season last year,” said DeVoursney. Cairo bounced back and won five of its next six games, and they are hoping to use the strong finish as a springboard to a better 2021, including the top spot in their region. “We always want to compete for the region championship here at Cairo,” said DeVoursney. They were close last year, finishing as the second seed in 1-AAAA. But there’s another goal that the head coach wants to see his team continue this season. “We’ve made the playoffs now for 18 straight seasons, and have hosted 17 of those games,” said DeVoursney. “We want to keep the streak alive.”

Senior quarterback Kevin Speed will return on not just the offensive side of the ball for Cairo, but he’ll also return to play defensive back. This is the position he’s being recruited by several Division I schools for. Speed filled in at QB last year, which was his first time ever playing the position, according to DeVoursney. “We simply had to find a QB, and we chose him,” said DeVoursney. “He did a really good job.” However, the head Syrupmaker says there’ll be a bit of competition there this year. “Junior Braylon Robinson will push Kevin this year,” said DeVoursney. Other returning players include four offensive linemen: Jayven Jenkins, Will Walden, Baylor Glasure, and Cade Puckett. DeVoursney says that Puckett was the first freshman to ever start for him at Cairo. Receiver Tyree Kelly will also return in 2021.

KEY LOSSES This season, Cairo will be having some key losses, including two players who will be greatly missed: kicker and punter Noah Jones and linebacker Ricky Walker. Jones was a four-year starter for Cairo and has moved on to the University of Georgia. “Noah is a special talent at a special position,” said DeVoursney. Earning Region Specialist of the Year in 2018 and 2019, Jones was considered the top punter in the country by Kohl’s Kicking Camps. Standout player Walker will continue his career at Georgia Military College. DeVoursney says Walker ran the Syrupmakers. “He was the most important kid on the field,” said Devoursney. Joining Walker at GMC will be teammate Brandon McClendon, a three-year starter as offensive lineman. Another three-year starter, running back Tay Solomon, will also depart Cairo by way of graduation.

Look for Cairo to make it 19 in a row.

ITG Next | 129

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REGION 2 - 4A

AUG

@ Lee County

AUG

@ Spencer

SEPT

@ Kendrick

CARVER (COLUMBUS)

SEPT

OCT

Shaw

LaGrange

Jordan

WHO’S BACK The Tigers have a lot to work with in 2021. QB Devin Riles, RB Jaiden Credle, and RB Jamari Riley will return to lead a high-scoring Carver offense. Credle also serves as the team’s second-leading receiver, and he will be accompanied by receivers William Bonilla and Terrell Beasley in 2021. On defense, Antonio Watts, Michael Merriweather, and James Jackson will all return as seniors. They combined for 179 tackles and 24 tackles for loss through eight games in 2020. Sack leader Cameron Crowell and linebacker Jayshawn Washington will also return as part of a large senior class at Carver. The secondary will remain firm as well, with Cortez West and the aforementioned Watts holding down the last line of defense.

KEY LOSSES It is always good to hear that offensive losses are minimum. Of all offensive skill positions, only WR JaMichael Murray will leave the team for college. Defensively, the losses are a little greater. Leading tackler and linebacker Zavion Evans graduated, as will defensive tackle JaKobi Carter. The secondary is probably the hardest hit group on the team, as they graduate corners Dasheen Jackson and Zion Merine. Jackson also serves as the team’s primary kick returner. Kicker Amara Diallo also graduated, leaving some holes that need to be filled for special teams before the 2021 regular season begins.

A winning season could be in the books for Carver, losing only to Lee County and in the semifinals.

OCT

@ Troup

OCT

@ Columbus

Hardaway

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of G.W. Carver High School Tiger Football via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record 10

Wins

1 Losses

408

Points Scored Points Allowed

127

Head Coach: Corey Joyner

WHAT TO EXPECT Expectations are high for Carver, and they have certainly lived up to them in recent years. Following a 3-8 season in 2017, the Tigers hired Joyner as coach, and this has resulted in three consecutive 9+ win seasons. This success combined with returning talent should make Carver a primary contender for the 4A championship in 2021. They likely won’t change much from last year, when they went undefeated in the regular season. An early 2021 test against 6A power Lee County will be a good indicator as to how cohesive the Tigers are. Expect them to cruise through a relatively easy region and use their experience from the early-season Lee County game to handle tougher opponents down the road.

ITG Next | 131

REGION 8 - 4A

CEDAR SHOALS

AUG

@ Clarke Central

AUG

@ Oconee County

SEPT St. Pius X

SEPT

@ Winder-Barrow

SEPT East Hall

OCT

@ Madison County

WHAT TO EXPECT Statistically, 2020 was the worst season for Cedar Shoals since a 2-8 campaign in 2015. Also, contrary to the trend of winning more games in lower classifications, the Jaguars won six less games in their first year in 4A (since 2011) than they did in 5A last season. Much of this falls on the fact that Cedar Shoals’ current region is top heavy with Jefferson, Flowery Branch, and North Oconee asserting their will. However, hope is not lost. With a large returning group of players, the Jaguars can work off established chemistry to try and win some of the “tossup” games of 2021.

OCT

Jefferson

@ Flowery Branch

Claiming that Cedar Shoals is a young team is an understatement. Mandrell Glenn started at quarterback as a sophomore last year and will return, along with Jerdavian Colbert, the Jaguars’ (senior) running back. Three players tallied over 100 yards receiving last year, and all three (Cayden Barnes, Marik Armstrong, and the aforementioned Colbert) will return for their senior seasons in 2021. All-Region tackle Adorian Favors will also provide a good boost up front. Defensively, the Jaguars will return a productive secondary headed by Juandarion Silas, Toby Bolton, Renardo Faust II, and (sophomore) Jamir Long. The linebacking core will be strong as well with Damir Pittard, Kyrus Browner, and Jadarreian Edwards.

The Jaguars’ daunting non-region schedule in 2021 undercuts the true improvement this team will undergo this offseason.

132 | itgnext.com

NOV

@ North Oconee

Chestatee

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of onlineathens.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

106

Losses Points Scored

235

WHO’S BACK

OCT

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Leroy Ryals

KEY LOSSES Not many players are leaving the Jaguars through graduation. No offensive skill position starter is a senior. On defense, the Jaguars will lose their leading tackler in Teryone Campbell. They will also lose a pair of senior-front seven players, David Cross and Austin McDavid, who combined for eight tackles for losses through eight games last season. Cedar Shoals’ biggest losses may come in special teams, as both kicker Will Fang and punter Gabe Bush (graduated) in 2021. Overall, of the 22 starting players on offense and defense, only about four or five players are set to leave.

REGION 2 - 4A

AUG

Northside (Columbus)

AUG

@ Smiths Station (AL)

SEPT

@ LaGrange

SEPT

@ Jordan

SEPT @ Troup

COLUMBUS

OCT

@ Hardaway

WHAT TO EXPECT Columbus has been somewhat average the past few years, making the playoffs only twice in the past 6 years. (Unfortunately,) it doesn’t look like that will get better in the near future. Key losses on both offense and defense may keep them from making the playoffs once again in a competitive region. To have a shot, the Blue Devils will need to be more consistent in the passing game from week-to-week. They will also need to shore up defensively and prevent opposing offenses from maintaining long drives. Expect them to implement some of these changes en route to a potential playoff berth.

KEY LOSSES Of all offensive groups, the receiving corps will take the largest hit. Jahshua Jackson, Nicholas Palmer, and Jahari Jones (all graduated) (after) combining for 868 receiving yards (during) their senior seasons. On the offensive line, Columbus will lose Gavin Melendez and Micah Johnson. Defensively, the Blue Devils graduated their top two tacklers in linebackers Drew Kahmann and Austin Toelle. They will also lose two key components on the defensive line: Morgan Wiliams and Tanner Hemmings. Columbus uses two-way players often, so the previously mentioned Palmer and Jones also play in the secondary. The loss of these two players impacts both sides of the ball in a notable way, and Columbus will have to find a way to overcome these crucial losses.

Much like 2020, Columbus may lose a few games and fall short of the postseason in 2021.

OCT

Carver (Columbus)

Spencer

OCT

NOV

Kendrick

Shaw

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of ledger-enquirer.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

274

Points Scored Points Allowed

320

Head Coach: Phil Marino

WHO’S BACK The good news for Columbus is that key players will return in skill positions on both sides of the ball. Offensively, QB Johnathan Powell and RB Robert Edwards, who combined for 31 touchdowns, will return in 2021. Leading receiver Vaudree’ Bedford Jr. will also return. On defense, the Blue Devils will get more out of young talent in rising sophomore Bryant Mansfield and rising freshman Tyranny McGowan. Evan Toelle and Jett Rapp will also play a key role in the front seven. Kicker and punter Bridger Jones will also return as a senior, solidifying a solid special teams unit from this past season.

ITG Next | 133

FLOWERY BRANCH

AUG

@ St. Pius X

AUG

Dawson County

SEPT

@ Gainesville

SEPT Hiram

Written by: Phil Jones Photography Submitted by: Ben Hall

overall record 9

420

3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

268

Head Coach: Ben Hall

WHO’S BACK Leading the returning starters and contributors from last season’s 9-win team will be quarterback David Renard. The senior was the state’s leading passer in 4A, with 2,655 yards passing and 23 touchdowns. The standout signal-caller completed an impressive 65% of his passes. He’s also pretty good running the football, too, with 467 rushing yards last season and five touchdowns. Senior defensive end Sam Westbrook returns to rush opposing quarterbacks and stop opposing running backs this year for head coach Ben Hall’s defense. Senior wideout/cornerback (missing a name?) figures to contribute once again as a defender and as a receiver on offense in 2021. Tight end Baxley O’Brien will be back this season, giving Renard another target at receiver. He has 33 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns.

134 | itgnext.com

SEPT

@ Jefferson

OCT

@ North Oconee

OCT

Cedar Shoals

OCT

@ Madison County

OCT Chestatee

NOV East Hall

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

REGION 8 - 4A

With the state’s top passer in 4A returning to lead the Flowery Branch offense, and nine starters returning on the defensive side, Falcons fans should have a lot to cheer about this upcoming season. Hall has had his team in contention for region titles and deep runs in the playoffs since arriving in 2017. With 32 wins in his first four seasons at the helm of the Falcons, the coach seems to really get the most out of his players, and this season should be no different. The coach is happy right now that everyone is healthy. “We came out of our controlled spring scrimmage healthy,” Hall said. He pointed to what he thinks are the biggest advantages on both sides of the ball coming into this season. “We return the state passing yardage leader in QB David Renard, and we have nine starters returning on defense,” Hall said.

KEY LOSSES The Falcons will miss several playmakers from several areas of the team, including running back Jaizen Ellingham. He finished his Falcons career with 1,574 rushing yards on 244 carries and 30 rushing touchdowns. He also had 203 receiving yards with three touchdowns. Tight end Sal Sengson has also graduated and leaves with 35 catches and 581 yards receiving with four touchdowns to his credit. Wide receiver Connor Larson will be missed, as will his production. He caught 84 passes for 1,274 yards and four touchdowns while at Flowery Branch. Offensive tackle Daniel Tulk leaves the Falcons but becomes a Mercer University Bear after accepting their offer to play for the middle Georgia university. Another former Falcon that was rewarded for his performance at Flowery Branch is kicker Maddux Trujillo, who will kick for the Governors of Austin Peay University.

With coach Ben Hall, the Falcons are always in the mix.

REGION 5 - 3A

AUG

@ Lipscomb Academy (TN)

SEPT

@ Lovett

Decatur

SEPT

@ Cedar Grove

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of gwinnettdailypost.com

overall record 12

380

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

158

Westminster

OCT

@ Douglass (Atlanta)

OCT

Sandy Creek

OCT Salem

OCT

@ Carver (Atlanta)

NOV Redan

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

GREATER ATL CHRISTIAN

Head Coach: Tim Hardy

WHO’S BACK Joshua Sharpe is expected to take over at quarterback for the Spartans. He had some playing time last season, appearing in five games. Their second targeted receiver from last season, Will Hardy, will also be returning next season. Hardy committed to the University of Virginia before his junior season, and will be looking to add on to his already great high school career. Perhaps one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the class of 2022 is Addison Nichols. Nichols is a key piece for this team and will need to continue his dominance up-front if this team wants another run at the state title.

This is a talented team with a lot of success throughout their program’s history. They are not strangers to deep runs in the playoffs and winning state titles, but losing two of your best offensive weapons will hurt any team, but they are loaded on both sides of the ball. Expect Hardy to have a great year and solidify himself as the true number one target for senior quarterback Josh Sharpe. Their passing game looks to not skip a beat with these two on offense, especially with a great offensive lineman keeping the pocket clean. Look for this team to make another run deep into the playoffs.

KEY LOSSES The Spartans will go into this season without their starting quarterback from last year in Deymon Fleming Jr., who committed to play for Charleston Southern in the fall. Fleming threw for 23 touchdowns, while also carrying the ball for seven more. His production made him one of the Spartans best offensive weapons a season ago. This team will also be missing their top receiving threat from last year, Brooks Miller, who committed to play for North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The Spartans offense will not look the same as it did last year and the coaching staff will have to find some playmakers to replace the production from these key players.

I expect this team to finish the season with a winning season.

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REGION 6 - 4A

HAPEVILLE CHARTER

AUG

@ Milton

AUG

@ Woodward Academy

SEPT Pebblebrook

SEPT

Heritage (Conyers)

SEPT @ Mays

WHO’S BACK Returning for the Hornets on defense are two very talented linebackers in Devon Irving Jr. and Joseph Johnson. Irving Jr. has several offers from Division I football programs. Johnson is a “late bloomer,” according to head coach Winston Gordon, and should receive several offers after this upcoming season. Cornerback Quantaves Gaskins transferred to Hapeville Charter from Pace Academy in Atlanta in January. Cornerback Derrick Maxey is going into his junior year and already has an offer from UGA. Coach Gordon says that wide receivers Krishon Lett, John Cineas, and Quientin Williams will be the leaders of the Hornets’ offense in 2021. “All three of those guys are Division I talent,” Gordon said.

KEY LOSSES Outside linebacker/defensive end Zavier Carter was a four-year starter at Hapeville Charter. Carter is a 6-foot-4-inch, 193-pound four-star prospect that has enrolled early at LSU where he will be playing football. Outside linebacker/defensive end Nick Hunter has committed to play football at Gardner-Webb. Hunter also had offers from Kansas, Memphis, Georgia Tech, and a few other schools. Offensive lineman Christian Wingfield was a 6-foot-7-inch senior who has committed to play football at Austin Peay. Running back/wide receiver Antavious Bradley has committed to play football at Benedict College. Nicholas Price played wide receiver, running back, and cornerback for the Hornets. He will most likely be a walk-on football player at Georgia Southern.

If the offense can fill in some holes in the skill positions, the Hornets will make a strong run in the playoffs.

136 | itgnext.com

OCT Marist

OCT

@ Arabia Mountain

OCT

NOV

Miller Grove

Stephenson

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of hapevillecharter.org

2020 STATS overall record 6

Wins 139

166

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Winston Gordon

WHAT TO EXPECT “We moved up from 2A to 4A and finished second last year,” Gordon said. “I think we could go a little deeper in the playoffs this year, but I don’t want to put any pressure on my players. We’ll see how things are looking coming out of spring and go from there.” For every talented player that the program lost in 2020, it appears that they are returning a player with serious potential. The Hornets will be young on offense, but the defense features several players who will go on to play football in college after this season.

REGION 8 - 4 A

AUG

Rabun County

AUG

@ Central Gwinnett

SEPT

Southside (SC)

SEPT

@ Mountain View

SEPT

Flowery Branch

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of Jefferson Football via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record 14

Wins

1 Losses

545 164

Points Scored Points Allowed

JEFFERSON

OCT

@ East Hall

OCT

@ Cedar Shoals

OCT

@ Chestatee

OCT

North Oconee

NOV

Madison County

WHAT TO EXPECT It would be foolish to expect Jefferson to be anything less than a Class 4A state title contender, and maybe even a front-runner, in 2021. With Player of the Year candidate Starks back to anchor both sides of the ball, the Dragons should be in the championship conversation from start to finish this year.

Jefferson returns to the 4A state championship game, possibly meeting Marist, the 2020 champion, for all the marbles once again.

Head Coach: Gene Cathcart

KEY LOSSES Running back/Corner back Kolton Jones and running back Kam Robinson are key graduates from the 2020 juggernaut of (Class 4) A-Squad.

WHO’S BACK Five-star recruit and UGA commit Malaki Starks returns for his senior season as a Dragon with huge expectations coming off a breakout junior campaign on both sides of the ball. Starks rushed for 24 touchdowns and 1,537 yards while throwing for 11 scores and over 550 yards last year. As a safety, he recorded two interceptions and 41 tackles (three TFL’s). In the 2020 Class 4A Final 4, Starks rushed for 320 yards and four touchdowns on 30 carries while intercepting the final pass of the game in the end zone versus Benedictine (W, 42-35). Spencer Neese leads the returning receivers after catching four touchdown passes as a junior in 2020. Austin Redmond and Kadin Bailey will anchor the defense in front of the playmaker Starks in the back end.

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138 | itgnext.com

REGION 2 - 4A

AUG

Upson -Lee

AUG

@ Northside (Columbus)

SEPT

Columbus

Kendrick

SEPT @ Shaw

LAGRANGE

OCT

@ Carver (Columbus)

OCT

Jordan

Spencer

Troup

NOV

@ Hardaway

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of hudl.com

WHAT TO EXPECT Thing are looking up in Granger country as Napier has the LaGrange fans believing again. In his first season as the head coach, Napier did two things that had not been done in a decade. First, he led LaGrange to the most wins in a single season than they had won in 10 years, with an 8-4 record. Second, Napier was able to accomplish was leading his LaGrange team to their first playoff win in 11 years. So, what does the upcoming season hold for Granger fans? The team will be returning most of their big guys in the trenches, on both the offensive and defensive lines, and Napier says he is excited to see how the battle at quarterback will turn out. “We expect to have a great battle back there at quarterback.” said the head coach.

WHO’S BACK The Grangers will return both quarterbacks from last season, and there could be some spirited competition to see who ends up the starter. Junior Jaylan Brown will be back, as will senior Tae Snead, who has been showing good progress over the offseason, especially in 7 on 7’s. A trio of seniors will return to give the Grangers some much needed experience this season, and that includes cornerback Montavious Martin, who has been offered by Akron, but is mulling over a few other schools. Defensive tackle Thadd Dixon is another returning upperclassmen who is being heavily recruited, according to head coach Matt Napier. “I think every mid major has been looking at him,” Napier said. The final senior in this group of returners is Kobe Jones, who will play corner and wide receiver. Finally, sophomore Parker Shattuck is coming back, and the linebacker/tight end is a “real special player,” according to Napier.

Make that back-to-back playoff seasons.

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins

348

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

255

Head Coach: Matt Napier

KEY LOSSES The Grangers will look high and low to find a replacement for the departed Kale Gibbs, who is headed to the Air Force to run for the Falcons. He did that same feat-running-quite well last year for Napier and LaGrange, as he was named to several All-Region and All-State teams, while becoming the leading rusher in the state last season for class 4A. Another Granger that won’t be returning is wide receiver/defensive back Adrian Traylor, who will be taking his talents to the Citadel. The defensive MVP for LaGrange last season, standout linebacker Jarno Huzzie, has graduated and is moving on to play college football at New Mexico Military College.

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ITG Next | 139

REGION 8 - 4A

MADISON COUNTY

AUG

Habersham Central

SEPT

@ Apalachee

SEPT

Stephens County

SEPT

@ Druid Hills

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: mainstreetnews.com

SEPT

@ North Oconee

OCT

Cedar Shoals

OCT Chestatee

OCT

Flowery Branch

OCT

@ East Hall

NOV

@ Jefferson

WHAT TO EXPECT

Head Coach: Chris Smith

The Red Raiders have had to battle through some tough breaks last year, and now during this offseason. Last year saw Madison County play only two games with their normal starting lineup due to complications of COVID-19. “We had several players that battled that mess (missed?) last year,” Smith, who enters his 10th season as the Red Raiders head coach, said. This offseason has seen Smith and his team lose three starters before they have played the first game. “We had two labrum injuries that happened during baseball, and a starter that hurt his knee during weightlifting drills,” Smith said. The head coach will focus on just his primary responsibilities of overseeing the whole team, instead of calling plays as he has done during his time at Madison County. Taking over the play calling duties will be new coordinator and former Commerce assistant Tim Taylor, who will also take on the role of offensive line coach.

WHO’S BACK

KEY LOSSES

Returning to the Red Raiders of Madison County are four of five starting linemen from last season. They are seniors Eli Akins, Drew Brown, Ethan Bond, and Vicente Abarca. Another returning senior that will contribute both ways will be fullback/middle linebacker Tyler Wright. He has 47 tackles on defense and will be one of the players looking to fill the shoes of Gresham. The quarterback position will come down between two players who both return, with one having a little more experience at the position. Senior Cooper Brown, who played seven games at quarterback last year, will battle against sophomore Camden Smith to see who runs the triple option offense. Smith says whomeverwhoever doesn’t win the quarterback battle will play halfback.

The offensive line will suffer a big loss with the departure of left guard Chandler Phillips, who is attending Charleston Southern as a preferred walk on. Two-way player Dayton Gresham will be missed, for his play on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. “Dayton played fullback and outside linebacker for us and was a really good football player—plain and simple,” head coach Chris Smith said. “We are going to really miss him.” Gresham was the team’s leading rusher in Smith’s ball-control and run heavy offense, and despite receiving offers to play college football, Smith said his former standout will attend Columbus State to focus on acting. Other players that will be missed are athlete Martavian Cooper and defensive end Kiya Hubbard.

2020 STATS overall record Wins

176

Losses Points Scored

282

140 | itgnext.com

Points Allowed

Madison County doubles up over last year’s three win total.

REGION 6 - 4A

AUG

@ Blessed Trinity

SEPT

Woodward Academy

SEPT

@ Hampton

OCT

@ Hapeville

Harrison

MARIST

OCT

Bolles (FL)

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography Submitted by: Derek McDonald

@ Stephenson

OCT

NOV

@ Miller Grove

Mays

Offensive lineman Steven Nahmias is a three-star prospect that already has over 10 offers from Division I programs. Senior Andrew Mannelly has committed to play baseball at Wofford. Mannelly may be the “best overall player” on the team, according to head coach Alan Chadwick. Mannelly plays defensive end, linebacker, and fullback. He is a player that can play several different positions or wherever he is needed most. Returning quarterback Champ Davis is also committed to play baseball at Wofford. Wide receiver Chandler Heath is back. Heath is also a skilled return specialist. Defensive tackle Ryan Phelan is what Chadwick calls a “big disruptor” on defense. Kicker Dawson Jones is looking to have a big year. His longest field goal in 2020 was 48 yards.

478 48

Arabia Mountain

OCT

WHO’S BACK

overall record Wins

OCT

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Alan Chadwick

KEY LOSSES

WHAT TO EXPECT “We had an outstanding senior class in 2020,” Chadwick said. “We went 13-0, won the state championship and only gave up two touchdowns all year.” This year will look a lot different after losing so many talented players. If the War Eagles can fill in some holes, however, the team will be ready to succeed in 2021. They haven’t lost every player that made them unbeatable in 2020. Offensive lineman Nahmias is a testament to that fact. “We’re going to have to have some kids step up this year,” Chadwick said. “We have a very tough schedule this year . . . but our kids know what to expect and they know the standards we have around here.”

The War eagles are parting with some real talent as the 2021 football season approaches. All-State defensive lineman Derek McDonald is moving on from the program. McDonald was a six-foot-four-inch, 215-pound senior who signed to play football at Syracuse. All-State linebacker Tyler Hare is committed to GA Tech on a baseball scholarship. All-State defensive back Josh Moore was a four-star safety, according to MaxPreps. Moore has committed to UCLA to play football. Fullback Lincoln Parker has committed to play football at Army. Strong safety Justin Hartwell has committed to play football at Furman. Cornerback Charlie Fleming has committed to play football at Washington and Lee University. The offensive line will have some holes to fill as O’Keefe McKinney, Ian Erickson, and Henry Clark have graduated.

Marist will be able to compete and win in 2021 and make a run in the playoffs, but will struggle to reach the state title game.

5070 PEACHTREE BLVD. SUITE E150 | CHAMBLEE, GA 30341 CHAMBLEE-ORTHODONTICS.COM (678) 554-3143 BRACES & INVISALIGN ITG Next | 141

REGION 6 - 4A

MAYS

AUG

SEPT

Cherokee

Riverdale

Grady

SEPT

Langston Hughes

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of theatlantavoice.com

overall record 3

7 216 252

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Niketa Battle

WHO’S BACK According to head coach Niketa Battle, “everyone’s back.” That includes starters from both the offensive and defensive lines, as well as both quarterbacks, most of the receivers, and key players from the defensive backfield. The key returning linemen are tackles Ty Richardson and Zy’terrio Lee. The quarterbacks returning are sophomore Quintavius Johnson and junior Saulamon Evans. The returning receiving corps include juniors Nagari Tophia and Triston Morgan along with senior wideout Justin Alexander. Sophomore cornerback and kick returner Travis Terrell returns, along with senior safety Jalen Johnson, an All-Region selection last season.

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@ Westlake

SEPT Hapeville

OCT

@ Arabia Mountain

OCT Stephenson

OCT

@ Miller Grove

NOV

@ Marist

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

Raiders fans should expect a couple of years of winning football from this Mays squad. Last season was the year that saw six freshman and five sophomores either start or play a lot of snaps. That resulted in just three wins last season but expect that experience to pay off this year. “We will have experience this year all over the field, and that should give us great balance,” said Battle. Look for competition between Johnson and Evans for the starting quarterback job in this offseason. Regardless of who gets the starting nod, look for both to see playing time. They’ll have protection up front and weapons to throw to. It’s a Mays team all grown up and ready to show their opponents that this is a different team in 2021.

KEY LOSSES The Raiders will miss the region’s Defensive Player of the Year from a year ago in linebacker (Amari?) AJ Johnson. He is attending Savanah State as a preferred walk on. Braxton McPherson is a defensive back who has graduated, as has hybrid outside linebacker/defensive end Joe Bellamy. Slot receiver Devin Miller has left the Raiders for the college game, where he’ll continue his football career at Tennessee Tech. He had a solid senior season, winding up with 30 catches for 547 yards in 2020. Raiders running back and two-year starter Danny Conley III, who had 444 rushing yards with 6 touchdowns last season in just seven games has graduated. His season was cut short due to an injury.

I predict a playoff win or two.

REGION 8 - 4A

AUG

Oconee County

Ola

SEPT

@ Cambridge

SEPT

@ Benedictine

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photo courtesy of North Oconee Football via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

322

Points Scored

322

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Tyler Aurandt

WHO’S BACK Despite the graduation of three senior receivers, North Oconee will retain much of their starting receiving corps with Eli Warrington and Khalil Barnes. Their running game will also be intact with Rodrick Finch and Dominic Elder Jr. returning for their senior and junior seasons respectively. The Titans will retain many linemen on both sides of the football such as Boaz Stanley, Ashton Hefner, and Jackson Howard, who are all set to be seniors in 2021. North Oconee has several returning LBs in Guy Hammond, Ryland Laturell, Austin Hood, Luke Kincaid, and others. The secondary may be the hardest position group to replace with the graduating seniors, so juniors like Brett Biga and Ches Smith will likely have to take on big roles early.

SEPT

Madison County

NORTH OCONEE

OCT

@ Chestatee

OCT

Flowery Branch

OCT

@ East Hall

OCT

Cedar Shoals

OCT

@ Jefferson

WHAT TO EXPECT North Oconee’s recent seasons have swung like pendulums, from 1-9 in 2017 to 10-2 in 2019. The Titans caught a break when region reclassification moved Oconee County out of Region 8-4A, but that happiness was short-lived as the Warriors were replaced by the Malaki Starks-led Jefferson. Now, the journey to the playoffs becomes much more difficult without Bubba Chandler at quarterback and a tough schedule. Expect North Oconee to incorporate more of the running game into their offense, which will not only establish a solid tempo but also give time for either rising junior QB Louden Schnake or rising sophomore QB Max Wilson to get accustomed to commanding the offense. On defense, the Titans will likely play with more physicality to overcome their shortcomings from 2020.

KEY LOSSES The Titans biggest loss comes at the QB position, as 4-star Bubba Chandler will play football at Clemson. Couple this with losing Alex Parkman, Carter Freeman, and Tanner Dempsey at receiver and the passing game situation seems troublesome. North Oconee will also lose some two-way linemen in Xander Schnake, Jonah Hunt, Zach Parr, Luke Courson, and Donte Calloway. In the secondary, the Titans lose Hayden Prior and Jack Butler. They also lose Josh King and Gavin Bloom, linebackers who also rotate into offensive positions when needed. Overall, the losses on the team are numerous but not crucial. North Oconee has several young stars ready to fill these opening roles.

North Oconee may lose about the same amount of games as last year in 2021 due to some key production lost from the 2020 team.

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REGION 7 - 4A

NORTHWEST WHITFIELD

AUG

Coahulla Creek

Gordon Central

SEPT

North Murray

Chattooga

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of dailycitizen.news

overall record 9

312 275

3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Josh Robinson

WHAT TO EXPECT The loss of wide receiver Matt Redmond and linebackers Jake Fossett and Jordan McCamish will hurt the team in 2021, but it won’t be enough to take away from the Bruins’ chances of success. Expect quarterback Owen Brooker to improve upon his outstanding performance during the 2020 season. As Brooker improves, the team will be set to improve as well. Brooker will have a top target back in wide receiver Ray Morrison. His return will lessen the sting of wide receiver Matt Redmond’s departure. Northwest Whitfield fans should expect the Bruins to seriously compete for the state title in 2021.

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Central (Carroll)

OCT

@ Cedartown

OCT

Heritage (Catoosa)

OCT

@ Southeast Whitfield

OCT

@ Ridgeland

NOV Pickens

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

OCT

The Bruins are returning several key members from their 2020 team on both offense and defense. Region 7-4A First Team All-Area wide receiver Ray Morrison will be a senior. Morrison recorded 56 catches for 930 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2020, according to the article in the Daily Citizen-News. Region 7-4A First Team All-Area quarterback Owen Brooker will be a junior this year. In 2020, Brooker threw for 2,401 yards and 21 touchdowns, according to the Daily Citizen-News article. He added another 311 yards and five scores on the ground. Running back Adrian Reyes will be a senior. Reyes rushed for 748 yards and 11 touchdowns last year, according to the article in the Daily Citizen-News. Defensive back and upcoming senior Keaton McQuaig recorded 57 tackles and one interception in 2020.

KEY LOSSES The team was young in 2020 but will still be losing some talented players in 2021. Region 7-4A First Team All-Area wide receiver Matt Redmond was a playmaker for the Bruins last year. Redmond recorded 51 catches for 714 yards and seven touchdowns. On defense, Redmond played cornerback and recorded an impressive five interceptions and 78 tackles. He also returned punts for the Bruins. Linebacker Jake Fossett recorded 121 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, one sack, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries, according to an article by the Daily Citizen-News. Fossett earned Region 7-4A Honorable Mention honors. Region 7-4A Second Team All-Area linebacker Jordan McCamish was an anchor on defense. McCamish recorded 96 tackles and nine tackles for loss during his senior season.

The bruins will improve upon their record from 2020 and make a deeper run in the playoffs.

PERRY

REGION 4 - 4A

AUG

Houston County

AUG

@ Harris County

SEPT Hampton

SEPT

@ Veterans

SEPT

OCT

@ Rutland

Spalding

OCT

@ West Laurens

Westside (Macon)

OCT

NOV

@ Baldwin

Howard

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

WHO’S BACK Leading a strong pack of returning starters and contributors this upcoming season will be strong safety junior Camerin Marshall, who led class 4A in tackles this past season with 145 total tackles. Skill position player, athlete/wide receiver Daequan Wright returns this year and will be one of the offensive leaders for head coach Kevin Smith. He had six touchdowns last year as a receiver but could see time at quarterback this year with the departure of Rucker. He played the position sparingly last year, scoring an additional three rushing touchdowns. Defensive lineman Quintavious Kendrick will be back to cause havoc on the interior of the defensive line this season, as he did last year. The senior had 60 tackles with 3.5 sacks last season.

KEY LOSSES The biggest loss for Perry will be quarterback Lane Rucker, who was a fouryear starter for the Panthers. He leaves with 7,247 passing yards in his career, with 50 passing touchdowns. Two thousand of those yards came last season, which saw Rucker lead Perry to its first region title in 61 years. His offensive backfield teammate, running back Makeil Kendrick, will also not return in 2021. He also had amazing career numbers while at Perry, rushing for over 2,300 yards in his three seasons, including 1,152 last year. He also had 14 rushing touchdowns as well a year ago. On the defensive side, Perry will miss safety Ja’khius Jackson, who graduated. Jackson, Rucker, and Kendrick were all first team All-Region selections this past season.

Another eight-win season for Smith and his Panthers.

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins

308

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

224

Head Coach: Kevin Smith

WHAT TO EXPECT Last year was a phenomenal year for Smith and his Perry team. In addition to that first region title in over 60 years, the Panthers also hosted a quarterfinal playoff game for the first time in school history. The question for Perry fans is can the Panthers possibly do it again? Smith says yes. “We have had the best offseason program in four years here at Perry,” says the Region Coach of the Year. Winning has a way of making everyone believe, and that’s what Smith has done at Perry—made players, fans, and the community believe that this Perry football squad can compete with anyone. Look for more great things this season from Perry.

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REGION 6 - 4A

STEPHENSON

AUG Lithonia

AUG

Southwest DeKalb

SEPT M. L. King

SEPT

@ Tucker

SEPT

Arabia Mountain

@ Miller Grove

WHO’S BACK For the time being, Stephenson will have to work with rising sophomore QB Trent Fields, but they could find other options as the season goes on. The Jaguars will also have to find a good fit at RB. They currently have Jasir Twyman, and Bilal Shabazz listed on their roster. If it’s any consolation, they will have several receiving targets. Jammeel Jones, Rahim Diarrassouba, Jace Coleman, and Zahir Raheem will all return. Defensively, Stephenson will return Jemal Foster and Delali Flowers among others on the line. Caleb Pack, Christopher Williams, and Winston Bradford will return in the linebacking corps and Adley Raphael, Naseem Triplett, and Cordell Andrews will return in the secondary.

KEY LOSSES Stephenson will need to replace much of their backfield, as QB Sedrick Hill transferred to Hapeville Charter and RB Terrence Guffie graduated. They have also lost TE Kobe Larkin and receivers Bradley Favors and Dalen Gipson to graduation as well. The Jaguars also won’t retain some offensive lineman, with guys such as George Jackson, Hassan Brown, and Giovanni Agbo also graduated. The defense won’t be saved from losses either. The front seven will lose Kamari Conner, Tommy Smith, Deandre Favors, and Matthew Carbon, all of whom flexed in at linebacker and on the defensive line. The secondary will be hit hard too, as Kamar Wilcoxson and Savion Thomas graduated.

I expect a first round playoff appearance.

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OCT

OCT @ Mays

OCT Marist

OCT

@ Hapeville

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photo courtesy of Stephenson Jaguars Football via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record 4

Wins

100 83

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Marcus Jelks

WHAT TO EXPECT Despite only losing three times in 2020, Stephenson took a large step back from previous winning ways. The Jaguars lost to Hapeville Charter (to end their regular season) and Northwest Whitfield in the first round of the playoffs to end a comparably down 2020 campaign. Their only QB is transferring to Hapeville Charter and they lose a star RB, so the future doesn’t look too bright for Stephenson. The Jaguars may be undergoing a rebuilding phase for the next few years, so wins may be on the horizon but not in the immediate future. They should win three region games, but don’t expect anything more than a second-round playoff appearance at best in 2021.

REGION 1 - 4A

AUG

@ Florida (FL)

AUG

SEPT

Thomasville

Lake Placid (FL)

SEPT

Godby (FL)

SEPT

@ Callaway

THOMAS CO. CENTRAL

OCT

Monroe

Westover

@ Cairo

OCT

@ Bainbridge

NOV

@ Dougherty

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Brandon Pham

WHAT TO EXPECT With so much top talent returning, this could finally be the year that Henderson and his Yellow Jackets turn the corner. “I feel really good about our team,” Henderson said. “I think our front four [defensive live] will be as good as anyone in the state.” He says his team has been making strides and thinks they’re ready to take that next step. “Our guys have been close, and they are ready to take it to that next level,” Henderson, entering his fourth season at TCC, said. If Thomas County Central can learn how to win those close games that have eluded them in previous seasons, this could be a standout season for Henderson and his team.

KEY LOSSES While the Jackets losses aren’t many, the players who have graduated will be missed. It starts with Tykeem Wallace, who played safety and running back last year. Head coach Ashley Henderson says the team will miss his leadership on and off the field. Wallace will continue to play football at Kennesaw State University. Wide receiver and defensive back DJ Walden graduated, and is another player whose contributions will be missed on both offense and defense. The lone remaining graduating starter that will not return is offensive lineman Dekhariez Ivey, who was a three-year starter for the Jackets. Henderson says his team will somehow have to find a replacement for Jordan Jones, who the coach says was one of the Jackets best defensive players. He will take his talents to Valdosta State University.

Look for Thomas County Central to finally break through this season with a couple of playoff wins.

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

229

Points Scored Points Allowed

267

Head Coach: Ashley Henderson

WHO’S BACK Thomas Co Central will return several playmakers from last year’s playoff team, including Persean Taylor. Taylor played multiple positions last season, including cornerback, linebacker, running back, and even played some quarterback. Henderson says he expects Taylor to primarily fill the void left by Jones’ graduation. “We’ll count on Persean to replace Jordan on defense,” Henderson said. Standout junior Gabe Harris will be another player returning that should make an impact. Other returners include receiver Adam Hopkins, who Henderson says is receiving several offers. Javion Revels and Marcus Christian will also be back.

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REGION 2 - 4A

AUG

Harris County

AUG

@ Callaway

SEPT

@ Hardaway

SEPT

@ Spencer

TROUP

SEPT

OCT

Columbus

Kendrick

Shaw

WHAT TO EXPECT Last season was anything but normal for the Troup Tigers. After starting out 0-3 to begin the year, the Tigers managed to come together and go on quite the win streak before COVID-19 put things to a hault. According to Glisson, the Tigers played three games in 15 days near the end of the season. One of those contests was against rival LaGrange, a game in which they won. Troup finished with an overall record of 6-5 and fell to Benedictine in the first round of the playoffs. Heading into 2021, the Tigers lose quite a few key pieces upfront on both sides of the ball but do return a handful of younger guys in a variety of other positions. “We lost our guys in the trenches on the offensive line and defensive line,” Glisson said. “But we bring back a good core nucleolus of seniors that have been there [and] played a lot of ball.”

WHO’S BACK The Tigers will be relying on some young talent to step into some bigger roles this season. According to Glisson, a good majority of Troup’s roster in 2021 will consist of youthful players, more specifically, sophomores. Arguably, the biggest name in this group is quarterback Taeo Todd. He was named to the MaxPreps Freshman All-American Team in 2020 after throwing for over 700 yards and five touchdowns threw the air and rushing for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground. Another returning player is sophomore Qua Birdsong. The defensive end/ linebacker currently has offers from schools such as Ole Miss and Georgia Tech, according to Glisson.

OCT

Carver (Columbus )

OCT

NOV

@ LaGrange

Jordan

Written by: Nick Anschultz Photography courtesy of trouptigers.com

2020 STATS overall record 6

Wins

334

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

190

Head Coach: Tanner Glisson

KEY LOSSES Troup’s biggest loss of players from last season comes up front. Head coach Tanner Glisson said out of the Tigers’ 11 or 12 players that are going to be playing college football, the bulk of those athletes were offensive and defensive linemen. Some of the names include: Will Cooley (Valdosta State), Royce White (Memphis) and Jordan Adams (Pittsburgh State).

While the Tigers will have to replace a lot of talent up front, there are still a handful of key players returning in other positions that can help Troup County make another possible run back to the postseason. I see one or two more wins than last year and another postseason appearance.

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REGION 4 - 4A

WEST LAURENS

AUG

Bleckley County

AUG Veterans

SEPT

Dodge County

SEPT

Bradwell Institute

SEPT

@ Spalding

OCT

@ Howard

WHAT TO EXPECT “We’re going to have to be physical this year to make up for a lack of skill players,” head coach Kagan McClain said. “We’ve really gotten after it in the weight room . . . Jathan Willis, Terry Tobler, Evan Guyton, and Cordarrian Hickman have all showed up big time in the weight room.” West Laurens was undefeated at home and winless in away games in 2020. To improve in 2021, they will have to perform a lot better on the road. This will be easier said than done since they basically have to restart on offense when it comes to the passing game. Luckily, Hickman will be back to lead a new Raiders offense. Defensively, the Raiders will have an opportunity to allow less points than they did in 2021 as they will have players with more experience returning to their starting roles and looking to improve upon some solid stats like Ashe and Snell.

KEY LOSSES The Raiders are losing many skill players on offense: Quarterback Bradley Wilson and running back James Boston will leave a couple of big holes to fill in the Raiders’ backfield. Wilson passed for 1,047 yards and eight touchdowns. Something that will have a big effect on the offense is that the Raiders are losing four wide receivers: Tyler Franks, Kolby Ramsey, Caleb Appleby, and Greyson Clark. Franks led the wideouts with 569 receiving yards and five scores last season. Defensively, the Raiders are losing their leading tackler in Jacob Holsey. Holsey recorded 92 total tackles in 2020.

The Raiders will win a game or two more than they were able to in 2020, but it will be hard for them to advance in the playoffs if they are able to qualify for them because of them having to rebuild the offense from scratch.

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OCT

Baldwin

Perry

OCT

NOV

@ Rutland

Westside (Macon)

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by: Madison Turner

2020 STATS overall record Wins

203

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

180

Head Coach: Kagan Mcclain

WHO’S BACK Coming back are the team’s leading rusher, second-leading tackler, and the team’s leader in INTs. Running back Cordarrian Hickman rushed for 784 yards in 2020. He also accounted for 936 yards of total offense. He was second on the team in total yards behind quarterback Bradley Wilson who had 1,131. Linebacker Javen Ashe recorded 70 total tackles and three tackles for loss, while linebacker Caden Snell recorded 69 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and five INTs. The Raiders are also returning almost all their starting defensive line.

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REGION 1 - 4A

WESTOVER

AUG

@ Sumter County

AUG

American Collegiate Academy (FL)

SEPT

@ Mitchell County

SEPT

Early County

SEPT

Lakewood Ranch (FL)

OCT Dougherty

WHAT TO EXPECT The biggest question mark heading into this season will be how quickly Coach Miller can implement his spread-the-field offense with the Patriots. He’ll have a returning quarterback in Walton to work with, along with experienced backs in Williams and McClellan. They should thrive in the new offense, with Miller calling his own plays. Miller says the biggest goal for him as the new coach is to “set the tone” for his team. Defensively, Miller says he doesn’t expect to be overly aggressive, but to rather “play smart.” Westover has a sloid foundation from which to build. So, expect Westover to be better right away this season under the new leadership.

KEY LOSSES Former coach Olten Downs has left Westover, as the Patriots welcome in new head coach Adam Miller. Players that have departed from Westover include 3-star standout defensive back and slot back Cameron Bergeron, who has signed with the Duke University Blue Devils. His fellow defensive back, free safety Marco Foster II, has also graduated. He had two interceptions in just six games last season for Westover. Dailan Hall, another two-way player who split time at wide receiver and defensive back during his career at Westover, will not return. Raykwon Thurston, an offensive lineman and the team’s kicker, has graduated and will not be back.

Expect the Patriots to have another trip to the playoffs.

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OCT

@ Thomas @ County Central Bainbridge

OCT

@ Monroe

NOV Cairo

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson

2020 STATS overall record 1 Wins

101

Losses Points Scored

136

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Adam Miller

WHO’S BACK The key returners for Westover this season are led by six seniors who Miller hopes will help him in this transition season of a new coaching staff coming in. The group includes running back/free safety Julius McClellan, running back/slotback Reginald Williams, defensive end/outside linebacker Patrick Weaver, defensive end/outside linebacker Dametris Green, and center Darnell Jones, who is a three-year starter for the Patriots. Also returning is senior quarterback Keshay Walton.

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Written by: Dhruv Mohan

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS

Zach Holtzclaw

DJ Bell

Dawson County 2,513 YDs

Pierce County 1,521 YDS

Jacob Wright

Tay Martin

Oconee County 1,602 YDS

Sebastian Irons Cherokee Bluff 1,442 YDS

Thomson 1,247 YDS

Jayquan Smith Cherokee Bluff 1,079 YDS

Logan Hickman

Alan Jones

Mary Persons 1,325 YDS

Monroe Area 1,076 YDS

dawsonnews.com

augustachronicle.com

GAMES TO WATCH Appling Co. @ Pierce Co.

Crisp Co. @ Peach Co

Lovejoy @ Carver-Atlanta

Matchups between region rivals Appling County and Pierce County usually feature some quality football. Both teams have played each other every year since 2004, and the Bears are 8-9 against the Pirates over that time span. Pierce County, the defending state champions, feature standout RB DJ Bell, while Appling County rely on DB Jamori Wright defensively. Wright had eight interceptions in a breakthrough 2020 campaign. This matchup yet again will be crucial in playoff seeding and barring any setbacks will decide the region champion once again. This is not a matchup to miss.

From now on, this matchup will always be one of the best-in-Class 3A. Last year, Peach County edged out the Cougars 1413, but circumstances will be different in 2021. Crisp County has acquired former Cedar Grove head coach Miguel Patrick, who led the Saints to a state championship in 2019. The Cougars will be led by the prolific backfield duo of QB Ahmad Brown and RB Marquise Palmer. They will try to earn Crisp County’s first win over Peach County since 1995. Expect a close game both on the scoreboard and statistically.

One point. That was the margin of Lovejoy’s victory in last year’s matchup between these two teams. The Wildcats barely escaped with a win, but don’t expect the same luck in 2021. Carver-Atlanta is fueling up for a deep playoff run under longtime head coach Darren Myles and will be well-prepared after playing West Forsyth just 10 days earlier. The Panthers have a real chance to go 8-2 or 9-1 next year, and that goal will be achievable if they can defeat Lovejoy. Regardless of records, this should be a very interesting 3A-6A matchup that sets the tone for each team’s season and eventual playoff run.

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IMPACT CHANGES Probably the biggest coaching change in 3A was Miguel Patrick’s departure from Cedar Grove and introduction to Crisp County. He led the Saints to a state championship in 2019 and will attempt to replicate that success with the Cougars. Cedar Grove hired John Adams to replace the departing Patrick. Another notable change concerns Appling County, who will play under Jordan Mullis in 2021 instead of the legendary Rick Tomberlin. Southeast Bulloch hired Jared Zito after three years of Barrett Davis. Additionally, 3A will welcome a new school: East Forsyth. The Broncos will play in Region 7 but will only play one region game against Cherokee Bluff. These changes could make for an interesting 2021 season at the top of 3A.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Kade Moledor

Jake Johnson

Dawson County 138 TKS

Oconee County 787 YDs

Dialo Mosley

Jaden Gibson

Carver-Atlanta 127 TKS

Dawson County 754 YDs

Donelius Johnson

Dennis Sims

Pierce County 113 TKS

Rockmart 476 YDs

Aaron Flood

Darius Johnson Jr.

Murray County 106 TKS

Oconee County 417 YDs

TW: Dialo Mosley

hudl.com

TOP TEN RANKINGS 3A

1 Cedar Grove

6 Greater Atl Christian

2 Oconee County

7 Appling County

3 Crisp County

8 Carver-Atlanta

4 Pierce County

Peach County

10 Rockmart

Monroe Area

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REGION 1 - 3A

APPLING COUNTY

AUG Monroe

AUG

Clinch County

SEPT

South Effingham

@ Tift County

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography courtesy of scorestream.com

overall record 9

448

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

153

Head Coach: Jordan Mullis

WHAT TO EXPECT The Pirates had a strong season in 2020 and dominated in region play where they fell only to Pierce County. While they are losing some great players, including linebacker Tyrell Gibson and running back Sharode Roberts, they will return plenty of players who can be just as good in 2021. The Pirates will be able to have even more success in 2021 and make a deeper run in the playoffs. They could even run the table in their region since Pierce County is losing some of their biggest weapons. Don’t be surprised if the Pirates find themselves in the state championship this December.

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Bradwell Institute

SEPT

Wayne County

OCT

@ Long County

OCT

Tattnall County

OCT

@ Brantley County

NOV

@ Pierce County

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The pirates will be returning more talent than they are losing in 2021. The team’s second-leading rusher in 2020 was running back Jaylen Johnson, now a junior, who rushed for almost 600 yards and three scores. Johnson was the team’s leader in all-purpose yards with 1,122 yards of offense. Joining him in the backfield is senior running back Jarvis Mims who rushed for 279 yards and five touchdowns. The pirates are also returning tight end Dawson Griffis, linebacker Dennis Mims, safety Taylen Crosby, and cornerback Jamori Wright. Mims led the team in tackles with 79 in 2020. Wright led the team in INTs with eight.

KEY LOSSES The pirates are losing a talented senior class. Quarterback Jeremiah Holmes led the team in passing with 605 yards through the air and nine touchdowns. On the ground, Holmes accounted for 304 yards and six touchdowns, and running back/linebacker Sharode Roberts rushed for a team-high 911 yards and 12 scores. On defense, Roberts accounted for 43 total tackles, proving he was a valuable asset on both sides of the ball. Keyshawn Walker was a versatile player who saw time at several positions on offense, defense, and special teams as a kick returner. Walker accounted for 529 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns while recording 17 total tackles on defense. Linebacker/safety Tyrell Gibson will leave big shoes to fill after recording 74 total tackles on defense.

Appling really took a big step last season, and despite the retirement of Rick Tomberlin, look for the Pirates to keep rolling under new head coach Jordan Mullis.

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REGION 1 - 3A

AUG

Charlton County

AUG

@ Southeast Bulloch

SEPT @ Jeff Davis

SEPT

@ Bacon County

SEPT

Frederica Academy

BRANTLEY COUNTY

SEPT Cook

WHAT TO EXPECT “We just want to be better,” said Cannon. The Herons are coming off a 1-9 season, but that one win was in a region game, so they advanced to the playoffs. The Herons made it to the playoffs in 2019 as well. Last year’s playoff appearance marked the first time Brantley County has made back-to-back playoff appearances in program history. “We are excited to be better this year,” said Cannon. “We are returning some good lineman and skill players.” There are plenty of players coming back, so look for the Herons to find more success and put more Ws in the win column in 2021.

KEY LOSSES Sixteen seniors have departed from the Brantley County Herons this year. Two big contributors that the team is losing are Cager Flowers and Noah Johns. Flowers contributed on both sides of the ball for all four years, mainly at the safety position, but he also saw a lot of playing time at wide receiver. Johns played on both sides as well as an offensive and defensive lineman.

WHO’S BACK Head coach Geoff Cannon has seven players returning on both sides of the ball in 2021. A few that stand out are linebacker RJ Bryan, defensive lineman Jojo Steedley, defensive lineman Little Michael Connor, running back Kellon Middleton, and wide receiver Quinton Walker. Bryan is a First Team All-Region linebacker and Cannon is “very excited” to have Steedley and Connor back on the defensive line. Middleton will play on both sides of the ball and see time at running back, wide receiver, and defensive back. Walker was an All-Region Honorable Mention last year.

OCT

@ Pierce County

OCT

Long County

OCT

@ Tattnall County

Appling County

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography by: Brandon Pham

2020 STATS overall record 1 Wins

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

315

Head Coach: Geoff Cannon Brantley County has a lot of talent returning this year. They will improve upon their 2020 1-9 record and make it to the playoffs for a third consecutive year.

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REGION 4 - 3A

BURKE COUNTY

AUG

Richmond Hill

Benedictine

SEPT

Hancock Central

SEPT

@ North Augusta (SC)

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of bchs.burke.k12.ga.us

overall record Wins

276

Losses Points Scored

321

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Eric Parker

KEY LOSSES Losses are minimal on the offense for the Burke County Bears. Leading receiver James Mable will graduate along with other receivers including: Daveion Henry and John Osborn. Up front, the Bears will lose offensive guard Vincent Webb. Defensively, the front seven will lose some players in Zaveous Heath, Jaylen Tarver, Donterius Jones, Jalen Williams, and Terry Davis. That group will be hit the hardest, as the secondary only loses cornerbacks Cameron Jones and the aforementioned Henry. Overall, Burke County is a younger team and their losses on both sides of the football should not greatly impact how the team operates.

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@ Cross Creek

OCT Harlem

OCT

@ Thomson

OCT Hephzibah

OCT

@ Morgan County

NOV

Richmond Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 3

SEPT

Claiming that 2020 was a “down year” is a massive understatement. The Bears’ record of 3-6 was the worst in school history, dating back to 1987. That could be attributed to a season shortened by COVID-19; nevertheless, it was not up to par. Expect Burke County to rebound stronger than ever. With a good junior class and an even stronger sophomore group, the Bears are set for the next couple years. They will likely lean on the running game as expected with passes used to keep defenses honest. Burke County lacks some size defensively, so that may pose some concerns. Momentum may be the biggest key on defense as the season continues.

WHO’S BACK Returning players will play a key role on both sides. The sophomore duo of QB Marshall Flowers and RB Charlie Dorsey accounted for over 2,000 yards in 2020, and they will certainly be players to watch out for next season. Receivers Kohen Rogers and Jaedon Middleton will likely have to step up as targets for Flowers. On defense, linebackers Khyron Fields, Jermaine Jones, and Demond Jackson will be instrumental in maintaining a physical presence to stop opposing run games. Damion Prescott will also return to lead a strong defensive line. Secondary production should not be hard to come by, as the Bears have a plethora of options: Jalen Cobb, Jaylen Golphin, and the previously named Rogers and Middleton, who plays both sides of the ball.

It won’t be a complete bounce back, but a first round playoff appearance for the Bears should set reasonable expectations.

REGION 5 - 3A

AUG Tucker

SEPT

@ Colquitt County

SEPT

Greater Atl Christian

SEPT

@ Carver (Atlanta)

OCT Redan

CEDAR GROVE

OCT

@ Lowndes

WHO’S BACK The future is bright for Cedar Grove as they have talented stars across the field. Arkansas-commit RB Rashod Dubinion and WR Bernard Mack form a deadly offensive duo. Trevon Ferrell also provides a quick boost on the outside. The offensive line will have Ken’Dell Brown to count on to open up holes for Dubinion. Cedar Grove has one of the best defensive lines in Georgia, and that will continue with Malachi Madison, Joshua White, and Christen Miller anchoring the front seven. Everett Roussaw Jr. will lead a strong linebacking group. The secondary will have 2020’s Region Co-Defensive Player of the Year in Kayin Lee along with Ricky Lee and Gary Turner Jr.

KEY LOSSES The Saints will lose standout QB Austin Smith and WRs Omari Walker, Sam Pittman, and Lamarion Ewing. Up front, the Saints will lose Region Lineman of the Year Keon Watson. Justin Jones has also graduated as a firstteam All-Region lineman, and Spencer Yeaton has left having been named a second-team selection. First-team All-Region defensive lineman Demarius Jackson has graduated along with David Carter and David Blackmon. LB/SS Domonique Davis II has graduated as a first-team selection as well and Daniel Carter has left as a middle linebacker. The secondary will lose a pair of standout corners in Jordan Grier and Antonio Taylor.

Cedar Grove could go 13-2 and win their fourth-ever state championship.

OCT

@ Salem

@ Westminster

OCT

NOV

Douglass (Atlanta)

@ Sandy Creek

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of tomahawknation.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

234

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: John Adams

WHAT TO EXPECT 2020 seemed like another strong year for the Saints, but that soon fell apart after one player was ruled ineligible and Cedar Grove had to forfeit 4 games. They were not the same team after the news broke, barely defeating Rockmart in the second round of playoffs and losing to Crisp County in the quarterfinals. This upcoming season should mark a return to dominance. The Saints are loaded with college-bound talent, but must operate under a new head coach. They shouldn’t have too much of a challenge adjusting to the coaching change, and they will certainly play with a chip on their shoulders. Expect a deep playoff run on par with previous years.

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REGION 2 - 3A

CRISP COUNTY

AUG

@ Tift County

AUG

@ Houston County

SEPT

Eagle’s Landing Christian

SEPT

Jackson

Upson-Lee

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 11

336

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

101

Head Coach: Miguel Patrick Crisp makes the state playoffs and finishes with nine wins in 2021. As a team, Crisp rushes for at least 2,800 yards (2,667 rushing yards as a team in 2020 and 3,000+ in 2019).

164 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Mary Persons

OCT

@ Peach County

OCT

Sumter County

OCT

Central (Macon)

NOV

Pike County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The Cougars have posted a record of 22-6 over the last two seasons, producing some of the best athletes in all of Class 3A in that span. Expect the Cougars to be a little more explosive on offense and a little less dominant on defense, but don’t expect much of a drop-off for this rising South Georgia powerhouse.

KEY LOSSES Defensively, Crisp will try to fill the voids left by the graduated Christopher Paul Jr. who signed with Arkansas, wide receiver/defensive back Sirad Bryant who signed with Georgia Tech, and defensive lineman Nick Mercer who signed with Georgia Southern. All three of those players were All-State selections in Class 3A by the Atlanta Journal Constitution in 2020.

WHO’S BACK Quarterback Ahmad Brown is back for his junior season after throwing for 1,000 yards and eight scores as a sophomore signal-caller for Crisp. Brown also rushed for over 500 yards last year, third on the team behind rising senior Marquise Palmer (819 rushing yards, eight TDs in 2020) and graduated senior AJ Lofton (790 yards and seven touchdowns). Palmer rushed for 1,572 yards and 17 scores as a sophomore in 2019.

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REGION 7 - 3A

DAWSON COUNTY

AUG

@ Flowery Branch

Cass

SEPT

@ South Forsyth

Northview

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of dawsonnews.com

overall record Wins

417 346

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Sid Maxwell

WHO’S BACK The most exciting player that the Tigers will be returning in 2021 is senior quarterback Zach Holtzclaw. Holtzclaw is a three-year starter who led Class 3A in passing last year. He threw for 2,513 yards and 25 touchdowns. On defense, the Tigers will have most of the defensive line back in 2021. Defensive lineman/center Cade Adams is entering his junior year, and defensive ends Logan Berry and Travis Dickey are entering their senior year. Safety Braedon Hubbard will be a senior as well.

166 | itgnext.com

@ White County

OCT

@ Gilmer

OCT West Hall

OCT

@ Cherokee Bluff

OCT

Lumpkin County

NOV North Hall

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 6

SEPT

“We’re very young, a lot of sophomores and juniors,” head coach Sid Maxwell said. Being a young team can be a disadvantage at times, but it also leads to teams with experience who know how to win. Maxwell is eager for the season to begin. This year will be his 33rd overall as a football coach. Holtzclaw is the player to watch this season as he attempts to top his outstanding 2020 season. Apart from Holtzclaw, the Tigers won’t be a team full of superstars. This doesn’t mean that they can’t achieve a lot of success in 2021 though, according to Maxwell. “Team chemistry is like lightning in a bottle,” he said. “It’s better than having a few superstar names.”

KEY LOSSES The biggest loss the Tigers will have to overcome in 2021 is the loss of a very talented receiving corps. Three receivers from the 2020 Tigers team have signed with college football programs: wide receiver/cornerback Dakota Sonnichsen committed to play football at Taylor University, wide receiver Tyler Lane committed to play football at Shorter University, and wide receiver Alex LeBlanc committed to play football at Rhodes College. Running back Isaiah Grindle and offensive lineman Riley McCord are some more pieces of the Tigers’ offense that will be missed in 2021. On defense, safety Tripp Caine will be missed in the secondary, and linebacker Kinkade Weaver committed to play football at Reinhardt University.

Because of the offensive talent Dawson losses from last year’s team, the Tigers may lose a few more games than they did in 2020.

REGION 5 - 3A

AUG

@ Washington

SEPT

@ Wesleyan

SEPT

@ Callaway

@ Salem

Written by: Phil Jones Photo courtesy of Douglass Astros Football via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record 6

Losses

Points Scored 138

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Stanley Pritchett

WHO’S BACK There will be a couple of key linemen returning to give the Astros much needed experience up front on both sides of the ball. Senior Tavarus Thompson will return to play right tackle on offense, while stepping over to man the defensive tackle position on the other side of the line. Also returning to provide help on the offensive line will be center Emmanuel Cooper, a junior. Senior Javontae Griffin will return to play outside linebacker and fullback. The quarterback position is very much undecided heading into the spring, with junior Anthony Harris the only returning signal caller on the roster from last season.

SEPT

@ Sandy Creek

DOUGLASS

OCT

Greater Atl Christian

OCT

@ Carver (Atl)

OCT Redan

OCT

@ Cedar Grove

NOV Westminster

WHAT TO EXPECT The Astros are one big question mark heading into the season. There are many key holes to fill, especially with the team’s top receiver and running back no longer around, along with both experienced quarterbacks. Pritchett will have to somehow find replacements for these players, either through players coming up in the system, or through transfers. Wherever they come from, there is work to be done to simply get the Astros back on track. The team was hit hard by COVID-19, with the roster reduced to just 30 players at the season’s end. The team only played six games last year, without a win. So, with a new head coach, staff, and new players, there is a lot of room to grow in 2021. The goals should be simple and expectations realistic.

KEY LOSSES Douglass High School’s biggest loss may be its head coach Rodney Cofield, who has left the Astros after nine seasons to take over at McDonough High School. When Cofield took over in 2012, Douglass High School had not made the playoffs in the previous ten seasons. He rebuilt the program into a contender, taking the Astros to the playoffs four straight seasons from 2016-2019. Former Arabia Mountain coach Stanley Pritchett was named the Astros’ new head coach back in March. Douglass High must also find a way to replace several key players who have either graduated or transferred out. The transfer list includes senior four-star running back Quintavious Lockett, who has transferred to Carver High School. Top wideout Quientin Williams has transferred to Hapeville Charter, while senior defensive back/wideouts Curtez Dorsey and Gaddis Heath have both moved over to play at Westlake. Sophomore defensive end DeMarcus Brown and junior line mate Tony Saylor will play this season at Langston Hughes. The graduated list includes a pair of quarterbacks who have each earned a scholarship to continue their football careers at the college level: Sterling and D’Andre Watson. Sterling will attend West Point and play for the Army, while Watson will attend Miles College. Linebacker Aric Parker will join Watson at Miles.

Look for this to be a transition season for the Astros. Douglass may win a couple of games in 2021 and improve on last season as it goes through a season of rebuilding.

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HART COUNTY

AUG

Elbert County

@ White County

REGION 8 - 3A

SEPT

North Hall

@ Crescent (SC)

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of thehartwellsun.com

overall record 3

Losses

284 270

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Rance Gillespie

KEY LOSSES The Bulldogs had several seniors sign to play college football in 2021. On offense, tight end Cane Berrong committed to play football at Notre Dame, running back Malachi Thomas committed to play football at Virginia Tech, offensive lineman Gabriel Coker committed to play football at Mars Hill University, and wide receiver Jacobi Jones committed to play football at Presbyterian. On defense, lineman Xavier Brown committed to play football at Gardner-Webb and safety Monte Maxwell committed to play football at Georgia Southern. The Bulldog offense has lost more talent than the defense has going into 2021, but, overall, the Bulldogs haven’t lost too many players.

168 | itgnext.com

@ Westside Anderson (SC)

OCT

@ Franklin County

OCT

Oconee County

OCT

Stephens County

OCT

East Jackson

NOV

@ Monroe Area

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The Bulldogs will have a tough schedule in 2021, including two non-region games with schools from South Carolina. Head coach Rance Gillespie says they are “good football teams” who Hart County will need to be prepared to face. Due to COVID-19, last year looked a lot different for the Bulldogs as they had to cancel two games during the regular season. “Last year was really different,” Gillespie said. “We’re hoping to get back to normal this year.” The Bulldogs lost a lot of exceptional talent from the 2020 team but will have enough talent and experience in 2021 to remain competitive. If everything is back to normal as expected, the Bulldogs will have more opportunities to win some games this year.

WHO’S BACK Returning for the Bulldogs’ 2021 football season is a slew of players with talent and experience. Linebacker Jairicus Moore is a three-year starter. Defensive end Jamarion Merritt is a senior with a lot of experience. Offensively, lineman Peyton Powell is a senior and four-year starter. First Team All-Region and All-State wide receiver Paul Davis is a four-star prospect with an offer from Duke to play football. He is joined in the receiving corps by senior wide receiver Malachi Kelley. Running back J’len Lackey will return to the Bulldogs’ backfield in 2021. Tight end Blake Skelton is a three-year starter for the Bulldogs’ offense. Quarterback Austen Whitworth is heading into his junior year and second year as the Bulldogs’ starting quarterback.

The Bulldogs will make the playoffs and win a few more games than last year.

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REGION 8 - 3A

AUG

@ North Oconee

AUG

Cedar Shoals

SEPT

@ Clarke Central

SEPT Thomasville

SEPT

@ Veterans

OCONEE COUNTY

OCT

East Jackson

WHAT TO EXPECT Recent success seems to be the driving force behind Oconee County’s football program. A 13-2 season in 2019 was the first time the Warriors eclipsed the 10-win mark since 2001 under Jeff Arnette. However, now that the “success ball” is rolling, Oconee County will look to build off of these recent seasons for the future. That process will be made easier with a talent-heavy offense in 2021, with a good connection developing between Wright and Johnson already. Replacing defensive starters may be tough, but the Warriors are well-coached, so points should still be a challenge to come by for opposing teams. Offense should carry the load for Oconee County, but the defense could come up clutch in the big moments of tough playoff games.

KEY LOSSES Offensive skill position losses are minimal for Oconee County. Wide receiver Zach Smith, who caught 7 passes for 121 yards, will graduate in 2021. Up front, the losses are minor as well. Guard Rob Boswell, a senior, seems to be the only offensive lineman to leave the team. The defense, however, is more hard hit. The Warriors lose their top two tacklers in linebackers Justin Coleman (who also serves as the team’s punter) and West Weeks. The LB group takes a bigger hit as Harrison Padgett, who accounted for 6 tackles for loss and 3 sacks, will graduate. In the secondary, Liam Lewis, Elijah Hamm, and Dawson Houseman will not return in 2021 either, having intercepted a combined total of 9 passes in 2020.

Despite a young defense, I see Oconee County going 13-1 with an undefeated regular season and a semifinals appearance.

OCT

@ Hart County

OCT

Monroe Area

@ Stephens County

NOV

Franklin County

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of oconeeenterprise.com

2020 STATS overall record 12

Wins

1 Losses

367

Points Scored Points Allowed

131

Head Coach: Travis Noland

WHO’S BACK Contrary to the losses, Oconee County will return a lot of offensive stars, such as quarterback Jacob Wright and running back CJ Jones. Their biggest offensive playmaker, 4-star TE Jake Johnson, will also return for his senior season with the Warriors as the team’s leading receiver. Much of the offensive and defensive line will return as either seniors or juniors, which bodes well for 2021. Despite the exodus of linebackers, West Week’s younger brother, Whit, will be a familiar face as he returns for his junior campaign. Other defensive players will be thrust into the spotlight next year too, such as LB Kyle Strickland, DE Cam Eldridge, and CB Darius Johnson Jr.

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REGION 1 - 3A

PIERCE COUNTY

AUG

@ Brunswick

AUG

@ Wayne County

SEPT

@ Claxton

SEPT

@ Clinch County

2020 STATS overall record 13

493

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

136

Head Coach: Ryan Herring

WHO’S BACK Although the Bears are losing plenty of excellent players, they have several gifted athletes coming back for the 2021 season. All-State running back DJ Bell is returning, as well as All-State linebacker Donelius Johnson, All-Region offensive/defensive lineman Ty Little, All-Region tight end/defensive end Ty Everson and All-Region free safety Daytin Baker. Baker is also a member of the GHSA All-State team. On defense, Baker led the team in INTs with six on the year and recorded 52 total tackles. In 2020, Bell accounted for 1,521 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns. Everson recorded 24 solo tackles and 49 assists.

172 | itgnext.com

Fitzgerald

OCT

Rabun County

OCT

Brantley County

OCT

@ Long County

OCT

Tattnall County

NOV

Appling County

WHAT TO EXPECT

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography by: Brandon Pham

Wins

SEPT

The 2021 Pierce County Bears have some big shoes to fill after the team won their first state championship in school history. With that being said, I think they have the talent to do it. Losing quarterback Jermaine Brewton is going to hurt, and the Bears will have to fill in that hole on offense, but the return of running back DJ Bell will help out tremendously, especially if he can improve upon his impressive rushing stats from last year. The team’s leading tackler, linebacker Donelius Johnson, will be an anchor for a defense that will be returning almost half of its starters as he plays his last season as a Pierce County Bear. “We’ve got some reloading to do,” head coach Ryan Herring said. “Once we put the pieces together, we’re going to be tough.”

KEY LOSSES Several players are leaving Pierce County behind to begin their college football careers. Quarterback Jermaine Brewton will be joining the Valdosta State Blazers in the fall, nose guard Seth Foster has signed with Wofford, All-State linebacker Austin Jernigan signed with Presbyterian, cornerback Ty Myles signed with Northern Illinois, defensive end John Manghir signed with Georgia Military College, and center Patch Bennett will be joining Jernigan at Presbyterian. These players played a huge role in the Bears first ever state championship-winning season. Brewton passed for 1,838 yards and 24 touchdowns as he led the team to the state championship against Oconee County and Jernigan recorded three INT’s throughout the season.

The Bears have lost some great talent, but they have some great talent coming back in 2021. Look for the Bears to win an overwhelming majority of their games and make a deep run in the playoffs.

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REGION 6 - 3A

ROCKMART

AUG Rome

AUG

@ Cedartown

SEPT

Coahulla Creek

SEPT

@ Sonoraville

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of northwestgeorgianews.com

2020 STATS overall record 10

Wins 450

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

191

Head Coach: Biff Parson

WHO’S BACK Defensive back Deidric Gibson is a three-year starter at Rockmart. Gibson is an athlete who will be able to play a few different positions in 2021. Wide receiver/defensive back Jakari Clark has an offer from Navy to play football. Wide receiver Dennis Sims was an All-Region player as a sophomore. Running back/linebacker Lanear Mccrary has two years of experience as he heads into his junior year at Rockmart. Running back/cornerback Jojo Haynes is a returning junior as well. Tight end Grant Lisk “has grown into a fine young man as far as his work ethic and becoming a leader,” according to head coach Biff Parson.

174 | itgnext.com

OCT

North Murray

OCT

@ Lakeview-Ft. Oglethorpe

OCT

@ Murray County

OCT Adairsville

OCT

@ LaFayette

NOV Ringgold

WHAT TO EXPECT Two players are competing for the quarterback position, and it is between a sophomore and a senior. Fans can expect a Rockmart team that is going to be ready to compete in 2021. “We have enough talent in our program to continue the success we have had over the last five years,” Parson said. However, Parson knows how challenging it will be to one-up the previous class who claimed four region titles in a row. Parson doesn’t see 2021 as a year of rebuilding the team. He says that building strong, personal relationships with his players is what leads to continued success. “I believe if you love on them [players] and be there for them, then you don’t have to rebuild, just reload,” Parson said.

KEY LOSSES Rockmart football graduated 11 seniors in the class of 2020—most of them were offensive standouts. All-Region quarterback/athlete Javin Whatley committed to play football at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Whatley led the Yellowjackets to a 35-4 record over the last three seasons. He threw for 959 yards, rushed for 1,365 yards, and scored a total of 27 touchdowns in 2020. Offensive lineman Sherman Davis has committed to play football at Hanover College in Indiana. Running back Jai Penson and defensive end/linebacker Travis brown have committed to play football at Shorter University.

Rockmart will win a lot of games in 2021 but won’t go very far in the playoffs.

REGION 5 - 3A

AUG

SEPT

@ Newnan

Northgate

SEPT Starr’s Mill

SEPT

@ Westminster

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photo courtesy of Sandy Creek Football via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses Points Scored

106

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Brett Garvin

KEY LOSSES All-Region linebacker Nolan Johnson was the Fayette County defensive player of the year last year. Linebacker Jared Davis was the “most powerful player on the team,” according to head coach Brett Garvin. Linebacker Lucas Buffkin, defensive lineman Sage Ford, and safety Kylan Wimbish are a few more defensive players who will be missed in 2021. On offense, wide receiver Ajani Williams was a senior who ran a 4.6 in the 40-yard dash and is committed to play football at LaGrange College. The Patriots were a young team in 2020 and will still be a young team in 2021. Because of the team being so young, the offense will not lose many starters next season.

SEPT

Douglass (Atlanta)

SANDY CREEK

OCT Salem

OCT

@ Greater Atl Christian

OCT

Carver (Atlanta)

OCT

@ Redan

NOV

Cedar Grove

WHAT TO EXPECT Although the team is returning a lot of guys who played last year, head coach Brett Garvin says that inexperience is the biggest hurdle they face in 2021. “We’re still inexperienced,” he said. “Got to get more experience . . . we’ve got some talent and great players who just need to learn. Got to get over some growing pains.” Because the team is young, Garvin is still looking for the ones who will lead the team this year. “Our young guys got to step up and figure out how to become leaders,” he said. The Patriots only played six games last year during a season that was cut short because of COVID-19, but they will play a full 10-game schedule in 2021.

WHO’S BACK The Patriots are returning their entire offensive line in 2021. Besides the big guys, on offense, the Patriots will be returning junior running back Dorian Graham II. Senior wide receiver Miles Thornton and junior wide receiver/defensive back Geimere Latimer are back as well. On defense, the Patriots’ secondary will look the same as it did in 2020 as defensive backs Kaleb Cost, Cameron Watts, Travis Franklin, and Joshua Walker are all returning. On the defensive line, the Patriots are returning three players. Defensive lineman Travius Franklin is entering his junior year, defensive end Asaru Holloway will be a senior and defensive end Cohen Jordan will be a sophomore in 2021.

The inexperience Sandy Creek faces in 2021 may cause the Patriots to lose a few games by season’s end this year.

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REGION 2 - 3A

SUMTER COUNTY

AUG

Westover

Hardaway

SEPT

Worth County

@ Central (Macon)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of hudl.com

overall record 7

131

Losses Points Scored

286

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Ross Couch

WHAT TO EXPECT Look for significant improvement from the Sumter County Panthers this season. As of June 1, Americus Sumter High School simply became the Sumter County High School. It is part of a $60 million project that will be the new high school for students in both the city and county district. On the field, the Panthers are expecting a major turnaround. “We ended up with just 24 students last season with much of our players opting out due to covid,” said Couch. The head coach said his team will be back to a full roster that should put the Panthers back in the running for a shot at the playoffs in 2021.

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Peach County

OCT

@ Upson-Lee

OCT

@ Jackson

OCT

@ Crisp County

OCT

Pike County

NOV

Mary Persons

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 1 Wins

SEPT

Jarod Lewis will be back. Couch says the returning starter gives Sumter County a major threat out of the backfield as well as on special teams. “Jarod is such an elusive back and a dynamic kick returner,” said Couch. “We are blessed to have him returning this season.” Another important returner is quarterback Cameron Evans. Just a sophomore, Evans saw limited action last year, but will be the Panthers projected starter heading into the season. On the offensive line, center Kason Hodges will be back. This year, Hodges will stretch out his duties, playing defensive line when needed. Justin Jones, who started as a true freshman last season, will man the OL again this season. Anthony Tyson, who started at cornerback last year and saw action at quarterback also, will stick to the defensive back slot this season. Defensive lineman Marcus Douglas and linebacker Dick Clark return to give the Panthers additional experience on defense.

KEY LOSSES The Panthers will have to replace quite a few players this upcoming season. The biggest loss, according to coach Couch, will be Cameron Douglas. “He was our vocal leader in the locker room, on the field, as well as the strongest player on the team,” said Couch.” “He will be hard to replace.” Douglas was the team’s starting center, nose tackle, and was on the kickoff team. Others that will be missed include several two-way starters: Receivers Michael Johnson and Breylon Green, who also played defensive back, receiver and linebacker Jawaski Whitehead, Mendrell Minnis, who started on both the offensive and defensive lines , and receiver Kylen Carter. The sole player to receive a full scholarship, running back Christian Waymon, graduated and will take his talent to LaGrange College.

A trip to the playoffs that will put Couch and his team right back in the mix.

AMERICUS CAMPUS

900 South GA Tech Pkwy Americus, Georgia 31709

Community College in Georgia! 2020 & 2021 Survey by niche.com

Two Years in a Row!

CRISP COUNTY CENTER 402 North Midway Road Cordele, Georgia 31015

www.southgatech.edu 800.928.0283 As set forth in its student catalog, South Georgia Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Title IX Coordinator, Eulish Kinchens, 229.931.2249 or ekinchens@southgatech.edu; or the Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Jennifer Robinson, 229.931.2595 or jennifer.robinson@southgatech.edu.

ITG Next | 177

REGION 4 - 3A

THOMSON

AUG

@ Jefferson County

AUG

SEPT

Grovetown

Washington County

SEPT

@ Ware County

SEPT

@ Morgan County

OCT

Richmond Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT Thomson has only gotten better in record since the hire of Michael Youngblood in 2018. From that 5-7 season to nine wins in 2020, the Bulldogs seem to be trending the right direction. However, playoffs are not their specialty, as they have lost to state powers in the second round three consecutive years. Thomson will very likely stick with their run-heavy offense behind Tay Martin. They should also implement a slight variety in rush play-calling in order to keep defenses honest. Defense will be key. Several impactful linebackers graduate in 2021, so their replacements will need to adapt to a physical brand of football relatively quickly. Holding opponents to under 24 points in a game could help the Bulldogs win more matchups.

KEY LOSSES Of all positions offensively, the running backs will be hit hardest as Cerauhjalaun “Snoop” Williams and Lilvasco Winfrey, who combined for over 540 yards, graduated. Williams was also a key cog in the pass-catching department for the Bulldogs. The defensive losses will hurt more, as Thomson graduated their top three tacklers: Keshon Germany, Kurtis Cummings, and Skyler Lewis. All three stars are linebackers and will be missed on this side of the ball in 2021. Despite not losing a higher quantity of players, quality will be lost in the secondary. Williams, a two-way stud, accounted for five Bulldog interceptions in 2020 and as previously noted, will not return to Thomson.

On par with historical trends, Thomson will likely perform well against weaker competition but fall in the second round to a contender.

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OCT

@ Cross Creek

OCT

Burke County

OCT

@ Harlem

NOV Hephzibah

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of augustachronicle.com

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins 384

3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

282

Head Coach: Michael Youngblood

WHO’S BACK Passing offense isn’t Thomson’s specialty, but they will have two quarterbacks to work with in Tay Martin and Jahkiaus Jones. Martin’s main position is actually running back, and he rushed for over 1,200 yards and had 12 TDs in 2020. They will count on him to be the offensive spark. Leading receiver Ashton Perry will also return to Thomson in 2021. Defensively, the pressure will be on rising juniors to maintain the winning ways. Dez Boyd, Sam Williams, Jaquan Hart, and Wyatt Turner will be instrumental in stopping opposing rush offenses and short, inside passes. The Bulldogs’ secondary will be headed by standout freshman Jordan Lane in 2021. He will be a young leader for Thomson defensively.

REGION 5 - 3A

AUG

Lovett

St. Pius X

SEPT

@ Pace Academy

Sandy Creek

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of mdjonline.com

overall record Wins

130 141

@ Greater Atl Christian

OCT

Carver (Atl)

OCT

@ Redan

OCT

Cedar Grove

OCT

@ Salem

NOV

@ Douglass (Atl)

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 4

SEPT

WESTMINSTER

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Gerry Romberg

WHAT TO EXPECT 2020 marked the lowest number of wins in a season for Westminster since 2005. The Wildcats have made the playoffs every year since 2007, and that will most likely continue in 2021. Chemistry should not be too large of an issue with most players returning to their starting positions. Additionally, Westminster found a good balance between the passing game and running game last year, and they will likely continue forward with it in 2021. Look for the Wildcats to move the ball more effectively and score more often as they did in 2018 and 2019. On defense, 24 will be the key number. Westminster will be in a good position to win games if they can limit teams to at most 24 points.

Westminster is returning several starters, which only bodes well for the future. In the running game, both Robert Clarke and Quinton Ezzard will star once again in an offense that relies heavily on them and QB John Collier, who also returns. The Wildcats’ receiving corps remains intact as well, with 4-star Holden Staes, Denton Shamburger, Jacob Fleming, and Henry Chartrand returning to catch passes from Collier. Defensively, the Wildcats will be heavily reliant on two-way players in 2021 like Clarke, Staes, and Shamburger, who have made significant contributions in tackling and pass defense. These three players accounted for five of the team’s six interceptions last year. Westminster is a younger team that will need players to continue their dominance from last season.

KEY LOSSES Westminster used a committee at quarterback in 2020. The team’s second quarterback, Wyatt Stevenson, graduated in the 2021 class. This is the only offensive skill position loss. On defense, the front seven will be largely impacted. The Wildcats graduated their top three tacklers: Lowell Jones, Kiran Gadde, and Beck Edmiston. In the secondary, their losses will be minimal thanks to several two-way players. Andrew Dotson and aforementioned Stevenson graduated, but most of the secondary will remain intact. Ultimately, Westminster’s biggest loss may come in special teams, as 3-star kicker/punter Connor Weselman will continue his athletic career at Stanford from 2021 onwards.

2021 should be a better year for Westminster, and I have them a secondround playoff appearance.

ITG Next | 179

Written by: Nick Anschultz

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS

Gunner Stockton Rabun County 3,128 YDs

Travion Solomon Northeast 2,336 YDS

Maurice Fench Heard County 1,449 YDS

Khamar Carlisle Therrell 1,237 YDS

postandcourier.com

Gunner Stockton Rabun County 1,581 YDS

Lang Windham Rabun County 1,378 YDS

Bryce Davis Vidalia 1,277 YDS

D.J. Rodgers Pepperell 1,255 YDS

blitzsportsga.com

GAMES TO WATCH Rabun Co. @ Jefferson Co.

Thomasville @ Fitzgerald

Callaway @ Opelika (AL)

This should be quite the opener for both teams come fall. Rabun County finished with an overall record of 12-2 last season and fell in the state semifinals to eventual 2A State Champion Callaway. Quarterback Gunner Stockton is back to lead the Wildcats after throwing for over 3,000 yards and 45 touchdowns in 2020. As for Jefferson County, the Warriors finished with an overall record of 10-3 and fell in the 2A state semifinals to eventual runner-up Fitzgerald. Jefferson County loses some key players from last year’s team; nevertheless, this game should still be an exciting one come the start of the season.

Last season, when these two teams met, Fitzgerald defeated Thomasville 2928 in a closely contested battle. This game should once again be an entertaining one in 2021, with both teams coming off deep playoff runs last year. The Bulldogs made it to the Elite 8 before falling to ultimate champion Callaway. Additionally, the Purple Hurricanes made a run all the way to the state championship game before losing to Callaway. Thomasville loses a few key players from last season, including quarterback Ronnie Baker. Fitzgerald also will also be replacing some talented athletes as well, but return a handful of players, too. We’ll see who takes the rematch this fall.

The 2020 AA State Champion Callaway will face a tough test right away when it travels to Alabama to take on Opelika. This should make for an intriguing contest between two well-known programs in their respective states. The Cavaliers finished with an overall record of 12-1 on the way to a state championship last season. Additionally, the Bulldogs finished with a record of 10-3 and lost in the Elite 8 to Saraland. These two teams last met in 2019 with Opelika winning by a final score of 107. We’ll see what happens when the two teams take the field this fall.

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IMPACT CHANGES Last season, the Callaway Cavaliers won their first-ever state championship after defeating Fitzgerald in the AA title game. Class AA should be full of talent again in 2021, leaving the field wide open for which team will walk away with a state title at season’s end. Arguably one of the favorites will be Rabun County, which is loaded on both sides of the football. The Wildcats will be led by star quarterback and Georgia Bulldog commit Gunner Stockton. Look for Rabun County to be right there near the end come December. Furthermore, Fitzgerald finished state runner-up a season ago and should be one to watch this season as well. Defending state champions Callaway also return some key talent from 2020, too. It should be fun to watch how it all plays out.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Ty Anderson

Brody Swader

Thomasville 127 TKS

Dade County 930 YDs

Will Turpin

Jaden Mobley

Rabun County 124 TKS

Bleckley County 743 YDs

Corey Keller

Kameron Slade

Rabun County 114 TKS

Therrell 576 YDs

Tank Morris

Nic Hester

Toombs County 113 TKS

Chattooga 572 YDs

maxpreps.com

TOP TEN RANKINGS 2A

Rabun County

6 Putnam County

3 Callaway

Fitzgerald

7 Jeff Davis

Jefferson County

Northeast

Thomasville

5 Fannin County

10 Lovett

ITG Next | 181

MIDDLE GEORGIA PLAYER OF THE MONTH

PERRY TIGHT END & FULLBACK

182 | itgnext.com

REGION 2 - 2A

AUG

@ Atkinson County

AUG

@ Long County

SEPT

@ Berrien

SEPT

Brantley County

SEPT

Tattnall County

BACON COUNTY

OCT Jeff Davis

WHAT TO EXPECT Bacon County went 5-5 in 2020. This was with the region’s best quarterback leading their offense and the fourth best rushing attack in the region, which consists of six teams. The Raiders are losing their quarterback in Mason Mikell and his favorite target, Terriyon Moore. There is a lot of work to be done if the Raiders want to improve on their 2020 record, but if I was a member of the Bacon County faithful, I wouldn’t bet the house on the fact that they will. Even with almost all the defensive starters returning, the Raiders will have to play better than they did last year when they gave up five losses and allowed almost 200 total points.

WHO’S BACK The Raiders will be returning nine players on defense, according to head coach Keith Gosse. These players include strong safety Brady Cothern, linebacker Xavier Williams, defensive lineman Tre Woodbury, free safety Trent Music, and linebacker Rasheed Slade, who also plays running back. Cothern and Woodbury are players who anchored the Raiders defense in 2020 and will do the same in 2021. Williams runs a scary fast 10.8 100-yard-dash as a linebacker. Music, who will be a junior, has started on defense since he was a freshman. Slade, a sophomore, is already benching 275 pounds. On offense, the Raiders are returning wide receiver Tyronn Deen, running back Jimarion Guyton, and offensive tackle Josiah Brown. As a sophomore, Guyton rushed for almost 500 yards and a few scores.

Bacon County may lose a couple more games than they did in 2020 unless some offensive superstars show up when the 2021 season begins.

OCT

Toombs County

@ Swainsboro

OCT

East Laurens

@ Vidalia

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography courtesy of jdledger.com

2020 STATS overall record 5

Wins

270

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

188

Head Coach: Keith Gosse

KEY LOSSES Wide receiver Terriyon Moore is departing for Savannah State this year, QB Mason Mikell is headed to Georgia Military College, and outside LB Tamarcus Pruitt was signed to Georgia Military College, before deciding to end his football career and focus on a career in welding. Moore was a huge part of the offense in 2020, accounting for 773 yards receiving and 13 touchdowns. Mikell led AA Region 2 in passing yards and touchdowns as he threw for 1,707 yards and 17 scores on the year. These players will leave some gaping holes to fill in the Raiders’ offense in 2021.

ITG Next | 183

Make it a

Chaparral

Summer 300 INDUSTRIAL PARK BLVD. NASHVILLE, GA. 31639 www.chaparralboats.com

Barrien County’s Oldest Bank Since 1905

Go Rebels

Alapaha (229) 532-6115 Enigma (229) 533-6315 Nashville (229) 686-7491

1964 Berrien High Rebels

REGION 1 - 2A

AUG

Long County

AUG

SEPT

@ Lanier County

Bacon County

SEPT

Toombs County

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by:

@ Tattnall County

OCT

@ Fitzgerald

OCT Cook

OCT

@ Early County

OCT

Worth County

OCT

@ Thomasville

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 2 Wins

SEPT

BERRIEN

193

Losses Points Scored

467

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Tim Alligood

KEY LOSSES The Rebels will lose their star wide receiver in 2021. Jakevious “Kevo” Clark led the team in receiving yards as well as return yards last year. Clark has offers from UW-River Falls, the University of Dubuque, and Virginia University of Lynchburg. Offensive lineman Russell Hiers started for the Rebels since his sophomore year. He will leave a big hole for the Rebels’ offense to fill in 2021. Offensive lineman J. Manry Ford is another player that was crucial for the Rebels in the trenches. The Rebels’ offense has taken a big hit with the loss of some valuable players. It will be crucial for the team to fill these holes before the season begins.

The Rebels haven’t achieved more than five wins in a season over the last decade. The team went 5-5 in 2018, but, since then, they have only managed two wins per season. Sometimes, things get worse before they get better. This could be what is happening in Nashville, Ga. Things could be starting to look up as the team is growing and becoming more experienced. “We should be much improved,” head coach Tim Alligood said. “There are so many starters coming back. We’ll have more experience than last year.” There are several players returning who were awarded with post-season honors after last season. Look for these players to lead Berrien to more success than they’ve seen in recent years in 2021.

WHO’S BACK Second Team All-Region running back Artavious Williams will return to the backfield for the Rebels in 2021. Williams will also play linebacker, along with Josiah Davis, who will play wide receiver on offense. Second Team All-Region wide receiver and defensive back Elijah Denson is a six-foot-one-inch, 175-pound senior. Second Team All-Region offensive lineman Brayden Joiner will be back in the trenches for the Rebels in 2021. He is joined by Second Team All-Region defensive lineman John Davis. Senior kicker Hayden Futch will be back to knock through field goals and PATs for the Rebels in 2021. Futch was a Second Team All-Region punter in 2020.

The Rebels may win a few more games in 2021 than they did in 2020. But Berrien falls short of a postseason appearance.

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REGION 3 - 2A

BLECKLEY COUNTY

AUG

@ West Laurens

AUG

Wilcox County

SEPT

South Atlanta

SEPT Vidalia

OCT

@ Dodge County

OCT

Jasper County

WHAT TO EXPECT “We’re going to be young on offense,” head coach Von Lassiter said. While a lack of experience is usually a sign of trouble for a football team, Lassiter is confident in his players’ abilities on the field. “I think having some youngsters is going to pay off for us…I think they will be able to keep us in some close games,” said Lassiter. A good team needs some good leaders and, according to Lassiter, establishing the team’s leaders is something the Royals are “still figuring out.” Overall, expect the offense to sputter a bit with the loss of Sasser and Stephens. Defensively, the Royals will have a lot of experience that will prove valuable and could be enough to get them back to the playoffs in 2021.

WHO’S BACK Returning for the Royals are two linebackers who became starters as sophomores: Nehemiah Mack and Christian Newbern. Linebacker Demetrius Pope will be back to join Mack and Newbern. Scooter Slappy played linebacker in 2020, but has switched to defensive lineman. Safety Tyler Wilcox is back to lead the secondary in 2021. Offensively, wide receiver Jaden Mobley will be back to catch some passes. As a sophomore, Mobley had 743 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. Running back Jahvon Butler will be returning to help the Royals run game. As a sophomore, Butler rushed for 1,201 yards and 11 scores. Back in the trenches for the Royals will be center Zeb Dubois and tackle Colin Kight.

The Royals will see the loss of some star offensive players reflected in their record at the end of the season, but their defense will keep them from losing some tight games.

186 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Lamar County

OCT Northeast

OCT

@ Washington County

OCT Southwest

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of BC Royal Touchdown Club via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins

414

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

240

Head Coach: Von Lassiter

KEY LOSSES Bleckley is losing five seniors who will all be playing college football this year. Quarterback Dominic Sasser will be playing at Carleton College. Sasser threw for over 1,700 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2020. Running back Chuckie Stephens will be a walkon in college. Stephens rushed for 980 yards and 17 touchdowns as a senior. Left tackle Amarius Mims has enrolled early at UGA. Defensive tackle Willie Harris is committed to Gardner-Webb. Defensive lineman Zack Stanley is currently still undecided on where he will be playing college ball in 2021.

REGION 5 - 2 A

AUG

@ Opelika (AL)

AUG

Troup County

SEPT Hardaway

SEPT

Douglass (ATL)

CALLAWAY

SEPT

Thomas County Central

While the Cavaliers will need to adjust to a new quarterback, they can rely on Amarion Copeland, a second team All-Region running back in 2020. They will also have receiving threats available in Carlos Billingslea, Andrew Locke, and Kevin Alfaro. TE Sam Williams will also be crucial in the redzone. Up front, Callaway returns several players including Jacob Miles, Adarian Barnes, and Kamez Hopson. The defensive line will likely improve in 2021 with stars like Trey Stephens and Caleb Woody. Losses at linebacker though will take a toll on the defense, as Kier Jackson is the only All-Region player to return in that group. The same can’t be said for the secondary, as Jarvis Parks and Cameron Smith will make plays again as they did last year.

KEY LOSSES Callaway will lose several key contributors on the 2020 state championship team. It starts with QB Demetrius Coleman and RB Charlie Dixon, who both earned first team All-Region honors. Region player of the year DB/WR Jalin Shephard will also graduate, denting both sides of the football. The offensive line will mostly remain intact, with only Lathan Patterson graduating. The front seven will take some hits. Defensive lineman Keshawn Suggs and linebackers Austin Thomas and Ladarrious Williams will graduate as first team selections. The secondary will have to overcome the losses of Osiris Rivas and the aforementioned player of the year Jalin Shephard.

OCT

Haralson County

WHO’S BACK

Callaway will make it back to the state championship game.

OCT

@ Bremen

NOV

@ Heard County

Temple

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of ledger-enquirer.com

2020 STATS overall record 12

Wins

1 Losses

336

Points Scored Points Allowed

180

Head Coach: Pete Wiggins

WHAT TO EXPECT Prior to 2020, Callaway had made the semifinals 3 of the previous 4 years, only to see their season end there. But, Callaway earned a 41-17 en route to their first ever state title. Expectations are higher than ever in 2021, but key losses in the backfield could hinder back-toback titles. Offensively, Callaway will probably stick to the ground more, but not much should change defensively. If they still play with the same intensity as last year, their defense could lead them back to the promise land.

ITG Next | 187

REGION 2 - 1A

COOK

AUG

SEPT

Ware County

@ Pelham

SEPT

@ Brooks County

Randolph -Clay

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

overall record 5

243

Losses Points Scored

Points Allowed

257

@ Brantley County

OCT

Worth County

OCT

@ Berrien

OCT Thomasville

OCT

@ Early County

OCT Fitzgerald

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

Head Coach: Jamie Rogers

WHAT TO EXPECT There are a few big “ifs” that Cook will try to overcome this season, and if they can do that, Jamie Rogers team could have its best year yet since his arrival from Baker County, Florida three years ago. That starts with if Andre Jackson can regain his form as starting quarterback. He has all the tools: big arm, size, athletic, etc. But he’ll be starting over, and his success will go a long way in determining his team’s success. The loss of Folsom could prove to be big. Can Cook find a kicker? The good news is that the defense has a ton of experience returning, including the line-backers.

As Cook seems to do year in and year out, they’ll have another stud running back returning to lead the offense with senior Jamarion Walker coming back. He will be a four year starter and will look to repeat the 1,000-yard rushing performance he enjoyed as a freshman. Another returner looking to reclaim his past stellar performance will be spot quarterback Andre Jackson. He was the initial starter heading into last season before being moved to wide receiver and linebacker. Drew Folsom is the expected starting QB. Senior linebacker and team captain Joe Pezent gives Cook talent and leadership on defense.

KEY LOSSES The Hornets will say goodbye to a mix of skill position players, big bodies along both sides of the ball, and special teams’ standout performers. Starting with the specialty player, Cook will lose one of their most consistent weapons at kicker and punter with the departure of Grant Folsom. The skill position players not returning include quarterback Tony Blanding, who took over the starting job at the beginning of last season. One of his top targets at receiver and a shutdown-type corner on defense graduated in Omar Pickett, who will play for Gordon State College. He also contributed on special teams, as well. Cook will miss a couple of big bodies as defensive lineman Kamerian Johnson will depart, as does four-year starter Walker Hazel.

Coach Jamie Rogers continues to mold Cook into a great program for this season and beyond. 101 W 5th St Adel, GA 31620 adeldental.com

WE HELP OUR PATIENTS FEEL LIKE FAMILY HERE. 188 | itgnext.com

206 East 4th Street Adel, GA 31620 (229)896-5176 Make us a part of your team.

ITG Next | 189

FITZGERALD

AUG Cairo

AUG

REGION 1 - 2A

@ Irwin County

SEPT

@ Turner County

SEPT

@ Dodge County

SEPT

@ Pierce County

OCT Berrien

WHAT TO EXPECT Like many teams this year, Fitzgerald is going to have a bunch of young guys on both sides of the ball. This is common following state championship-caliber seasons, which are typically the result of an abundance of talented seniors. “We’re going to have a young team,” head coach Tucker Pruitt said. “I am hoping that we can get better each week. Our expectations haven’t changed, but the personnel have.” Fitzgerald will have some good players in 2021, so fans shouldn’t expect the team’s record to suffer that much. “We have got to maximize the potential we have,” Pruitt said. “Some non-conference games at the top of the schedule will be tough . . . we need to have a good summer and be ready to go.”

KEY LOSSES The Purple Hurricane lost nine of the team’s 11 starters from the 2020 offense. Quarterback/wide receiver/running back Chance Gamble was named the 2A player of the year. Gamble committed to play football at Kennesaw State. Defensive and offensive lineman Jay Price, defensive lineman Dequavion Harper and wide receiver/defensive back Todkevious Wallace will all be playing college football at the University of the Cumberlands. On defense, the team lost every member of the secondary that started in 2020. There are a lot of holes to fill, and the 2021 Purple Hurricane are going to be a young team. The starters that are leaving were responsible for Fitzgerald’s 14-1 season and state title game appearance.

This is a new Fitzgerald team. They won’t see as much success as they did last year as they try and rebuild.

OCT

Early County

OCT

@ Worth County

Thomasville

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@ Cook

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

2020 STATS overall record 14

Wins 539

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

185

Head Coach: Tucker Pruitt

WHO’S BACK Returning to the Fitzgerald defense in 2021 is linebacker EJ Lightsey. Lightsey is a senior and three-star prospect with several offers from Division I programs, including Florida, Florida State, Auburn, UGA, LSU, Michigan, and others. Senior linebacker Jaden Stanley is another key member of the Purple Hurricane linebacking corps returning in 2021. Defensive tackle Xavier Walker will be back in the trenches this fall. Defensive end Daniel James is the last key member returning to the Purple Hurricane defense this year. On offense, running back Jakorrian Paulk is returning to the backfield for one more season. Paulk is a three-year starter.

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OCT

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JEFF DAVIS

AUG

@ Rutland

REGION 2 - 2A

AUG

Atkinson County

SEPT

Brantley County

SEPT

Tattnall County

SEPT

Long County

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of gpb.org

overall record 9

2 Losses

325

@ Bacon County

OCT Vidalia

OCT

@ Toombs County

OCT Swainsboro

OCT

@ East Laurens

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

OCT

Points Scored

The quarterback position will be a question mark for this team, but it may not matter in the end, as Allen is likely to carry this team as far as they need to go this season. Their big offensive line should do well to open rushing lanes and spring Allen for big yardage throughout the season. If he produces, like he did last season, they are likely to be in a position to compete for a region title and another playoff appearance. Of course, to get to the region title the Yellow Jackets will have to get through Vidalia High School, who they have not beaten in a very long time.

Points Allowed

210

Head Coach: Lance Helton

WHO’S BACK The Yellow Jackets will be bringing back their star running back Aahiyus Allen, who carried the ball for over 1,000 yards last season and racked up eight touchdowns. Jeff Davis prides itself on a strong running game, and if they are going to win games next season, he will play a vital role in this offense. Look for some younger backs like Landon Roberson and Kiyon Dotson to also get carries down the stretch for the Jackets. Defensively, Carter Mullis established himself as a force, leading the team in tackles last season as a freshman. Look for him to have another good year, as he continues to show his talent.

KEY LOSSES The Yellow Jackets will be lining up at the start of the season without some very good players from last season. Running back Austin Wood is taking his talents to play for Reinhardt University. Woods had a great season last year, totaling over 800 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also totaled 52 tackles on defense. On the defensive side of the ball, the Yellow Jackets will be without another Wood, as defensive end James Wood committed to Western Carolina University. Last season he totaled 50 tackles and 11 tackles for loss. His presence on the front seven will be missed when the season kicks off this fall.

I expect the Yellow Jackets to finish the season and make another appearance in the playoffs.

@ITGNext..Georgia #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext

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ITG Next Football Coach’s Shows COMING AUGUST 2021

Bainbridge

Blessed Trinity

Brooks County

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Crisp County

ELCA

Grayson

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John Milledge

LaGrange

Lee County

McEachern

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West Laurens

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REGION 8 - 2A

AUG

@ Jefferson

AUG

Pace Academy

SEPT

@ ELCA

Walhalla (SC)

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of dbintegrations.tech

overall record 12

621

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

245

Pickens (SC)

OCT

@ Pierce County

OCT

Riverside Military

OCT

@ Banks County

OCT

Elbert County

OCT

@ Union County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

RABUN COUNTY

Head Coach: Jaybo Shaw

KEY LOSSES The Wildcats’ biggest loss on offense will be the loss of wide receiver Adriel Clark. Clark caught 73 passes for 1,558 yards and 28 touchdowns last year. He set the GHSA record for touchdown receptions in a season and is committed to play football at East Tennessee State in the fall. Another wide receiver who will be missed is Sutton Jones. Jones played defensive back and recorded four interceptions. Linebacker Hoff Windham was the team’s second-leading tackler. He recorded 116 total tackles and 11.5 tackles for loss. Linebacker Brody Jarrard was another anchor on defense, and he wasn’t far behind Windham, as he recorded 93 total tackles and 10.5 tackles for loss.

Fans should expect the Wildcats to have another excellent season in 2021. The losses that the team has suffered do not outweigh the talent that the team has returning. The Wildcats will fill some big holes, namely the hole left after the loss of standout wide receiver Adriel Clark,, and have a season similar to the one they had last year. They have an excellent shot to win it all in 2021, as they will be led by senior quarterback Gunner Stockton. Stockton is obviously extremely talented, as everyone knows by this point, and this talent coupled with the amount of experience he has now could very well put the Wildcats in a position to bring the state title home.

WHO’S BACK As luck would have it, the Wildcats are returning a slew of talented players on both sides of the ball. The headliner, of course, is none other than UGA commit and No. 1-ranked dual-threat quarterback in the Class of 2022, Gunner Stockton. Stockton threw for 3,128 yards and 45 touchdowns while adding 1,581 yards and 26 touchdowns on the ground. Running back Lang Windham rushed for 1,378 yards and 12 touchdowns as a sophomore. Windham also accounted for 497 yards receiving and five touchdown receptions. Wide receiver Tate Ramey recorded 352 yards receiving and eight touchdowns. On defense, linebacker Will Turpin led the team in tackles with 124 total tackles as a junior. Safety Corey Keller recorded 114 total tackles as a sophomore.

The Wildcats will make another run at the state title in 2021. They have too much talent coming back not to. Record: 13-1

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REGION 1 - 2A

AUG

Brooks County

@ Thomas County Central

SEPT

Cairo

Bainbridge

SEPT

@ Oconee County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric VInson

overall record 8

431

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

236

OCT

@ Early County

OCT

Worth County

OCT @ Cook

OCT

@ Fitzgerald

Berrien

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

THOMASVILLE

Head Coach: Zach Grage

WHAT TO EXPECT Look for Grage to keep the Bulldogs in the hunt yet again in 2021, but things could be much more challenging this season. After consecutive deep runs into the playoffs in 2019 and last season, the head coach will have to find a replacement at quarterback for Ronnie Baker, who was a major reason for the Bulldogs success. That will be an area to keep an eye on heading into the start of the season. The region won’t get any easier, as foe Fitzgerald will most likely be the team to beat once again, with Early County and Cook High School expected to be improved.

Head Coach Zack Grage will welcome back two-way standout player senior Joe Williams, who will be counted on from both sides as wide receiver and defensive back. Last season, he caught three touchdowns on the offensive side, while collecting three interceptions to go along with his 58 tackles. Senior linebacker and All-Region selection Ty Anderson will return to help bolster the defense. He finished with 127 tackles, two sacks, caused 3 fumbles, and snagged one interception. On offense, Thomasville will have All-Region offensive lineman Jacob Tyson coming back to anchor the line, while a couple of running backs return. They are junior Ricky Fulton, who rushed for 13 touchdowns last season, and senior Malik Harper, who has over 1,000 career rushing yards and seven touchdowns while at Thomasville.

KEY LOSSES The Bulldogs will miss one of the top quarterbacks to ever play at Thomasville High School in All-Region selection and Region 1-AA Offensive Player of the Year Ronnie Baker. He leaves behind 4692 career passing yards and 44 passing touchdowns. He also rushed for over 1300 yards with 21 touchdowns as the Bulldogs signal caller. Baker will continue his playing career at The University of Cumberlands. One of his main targets, wide receiver Ricardo Johnson will also leave behind some big numbers as he graduates. Johnson caught 136 passes for 1793 yards along with 15 touchdowns in his Thomasville career. He will go on to play for the Runnin’ Bulldogs of Gardner Webb. On defense, linebacker Dimitrius Myrick will not return. He had 93 tackles and tallied 4.5 sacks plus one interception in his senior season at Thomasville.

Grage leads Thomasville to another great season with a tough as nails schedule. Once in the playoffs, look for this Thomasville team to be dangerous.

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REGION 2 - 2A

TOOMBS COUNTY

AUG

@ Dodge County

AUG

Tattnall County

SEPT

@ Berrien

SEPT Pelham

SEPT

@ Riverside Military

OCT

@ Bacon County

WHAT TO EXPECT The Bulldogs had a respectable 2020 season. They made the playoffs and were undefeated at home. However, the 2021 season is looking to bring many more challenges for a Bulldogs team who has lost its leading passer, rusher, pass-rusher, and defensive back. The Bulldogs will need some new faces to show up in big ways in 2021 if they are going to be able to improve upon their 2020 record.

KEY LOSSES The Bulldogs proved much more efficient on the ground than through the air in 2020. The rushing attack was led by three seniors: running back Derrick Mincey who rushed for 962 yards and 17 scores, running back Brannon Usher who rushed for 480 yards and seven touchdowns, and quarterback Chandler Lynn who added another 664 yards and six touchdowns to the team’s rushing total. Lynn also passed for 844 yards and eight touchdowns. Wide receiver Tyler Heath was the team’s leading receiver with 353 yards and six touchdowns. Defensively, Lynn played safety in 11 games and recorded 71 total tackles, the second-highest number of tackles on the team. Usher led the team in sacks with seven, and Heath recorded a team-high of three INTs.

The Bulldogs won’t score as many points as they did in 2020, but their defense will be equipped to allow fewer points than they did last year. They are rebuilding on offense, which will hinder their playoff hopes in 2021. Toombs County may lose a couple of more games in 2021 than it did in 2020.

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OCT

Jeff Davis

Vidalia

OCT

@ Swainsboro

NOV

East Laurens

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of Toombs Now via Facebook

2020 STATS overall record 7

Wins

331

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

218

Head Coach: Richie Marsh

WHO’S BACK On offense, wide receiver Jashaun Powell is back for his junior season. Powell was the only sophomore receiver to see playing time in all 11 games for the Bulldogs in 2020. Defensively, linebacker Tank Morris is returning. He led the Bulldogs in tackles in 2020 with 113 total tackles as a sophomore. Behind Morris and Lynn is defensive lineman Wil Watts who recorded 69 total tackles as a sophomore. Watts also recorded the second-highest number of sacks on the team with five.

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Sylvester, Ga

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REGION 1 - 2A

AUG

Turner County

Mitchell County

SEPT

@ Sumter County

Rutland

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

overall record Wins

267

Losses Points Scored

384

@ Tift County

OCT @ Cook

OCT

@ Thomasville

OCT Fitzgerald

OCT

@ Berrien

Early County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 5

SEPT

WORTH COUNTY

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Phillip Ironside

WHO’S BACK First Team All-Region quarterback Chip Cooper is entering his junior year. Blocking for Cooper once again will be First Team All-Region offensive lineman Hayden Booth. Booth will be joined in the trenches this season by offensive linemen Mason Fowler and Collin Souter. Wide receiver Cameron Marshall, defensive end Chris Manuel, and defensive end/tight end Mackenzie Daniels will all be seniors. Jaylen Fluellen will be a junior. Fluellen plays running back and linebacker for the Rams. Linebacker Quentin Cole will be a junior. Fluellen and Cole will be joined in the linebacking corps by junior Justin Fowler. Punter/kicker Reilly Mason was a Second Team All-Region player in 2020.

“We did some good things last year,” head coach Phillip Ironside said. “But we got into a rough patch.” The Rams won most of their games at the beginning of the season but suffered a losing-streak beginning in week five of the season. “We need to run the middle part of the season a little better,” Ironside said. “We are trying to establish a culture here. I know what I am getting into this year; I didn’t last year.” The Rams finished fifth in the region, due in large part to their mid-season losing streak. However, Ironside knows how to win—he started Hillgrove High School’s football team and led them to four region titles. Look for the Rams to improve in 2021.

KEY LOSSES Worth County football will be without 12 seniors in 2021. All-State wide receiver Tayshaun Shipp and All-Region quarterback Jordan Curry led the Rams’ offense last year. Shipp committed to play football at Mercer University. Curry was responsible for some game-winning touchdowns in 2020, including his three-yard rushing score with 34 seconds left in the game to secure his team a victory over the Mitchell County Eagles. He was joined in the backfield by running back Shaun Harrell. Harrell ran an impressive 4.5 in the 40-yard dash, according to his Huddle account. On defense, linebacker Desmond Rushing and defensive end Makyjhia Jordan starred for the Rams.

The Rams will win more games and make a short run in the playoffs in 2021.

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Written by: Nick Anschultz

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS Logan Cross Social Circle 2,081 YDs

Cody Soliday Irwin County 1,908 YDS

Omari Arnold Brooks County 1,666 YDS

Elijah Stephens Turner County 1,118 YDS

Amarion Blanks

Bo Rhudy

Turner County 1,713 YDS

Gordan Lee 919 YDS

Cam Long 1) Manchester 1,509 YDS

Tevin Gartrell Lincoln County 787 YDS

covnews.com

GAMES TO WATCH Pelham @ Mitchell Co.

Brooks Co. @ Irwin Co.

Washington-Wilkes @ Commerce

Pelham and Mitchell County will once again face off during the first week of the season this year. “The Backyard Brawl” should be one of the more anticipated games of the year in 1A Public, as it usually is. Last year, the Hornets took the lone meeting between the two schools by a final score of 24-18. Adding some additional juice to this matchup will be the coaching changes. Former Pelham head coach Dondrial Perkins replaces Deshon Brock at Mitchell County after spending the last six seasons with the Hornets. Lastly, Pelham and Mitchell County finished both first and second in their respective region in 2020, with the Hornets coming in at No. 1. Expect this game to mean a lot for the postseason come November. We’ll see what happens when the two squads hit the field in August.

Brooks County and Irwin County were two of the top teams in 1A Public last season. The Trojans finished with an overall record of 13-2 while the Indians managed to go 12-3. Additionally, the two teams squared off in the 1A Public championship in 2020, in a game in which Irwin County won by a final score of 27-19. The Indians handed the Trojans their only two losses of the season last year after also defeating them in the regular season 21-13. You can bet both teams will have this game circled on their schedules when the season rolls around. And just like last season, it should make for a much-anticipated matchup, with both teams returning plenty of talent from a year ago.

It was quite the seasons for both Commerce and Washington-Wilkes in 2020. And while the two teams fell short of a state championship, they still finished at No. 1 and No. 2 in Region 8-A. Commerce captured its first regional title in over 17 years last season and finished with an overall record of 12-2 after falling to Irwin County in the regional final. Washington-Wilkes, on the other hand, put together a 10-2 record and fell in the Elite 8 to Brooks County. In the only meeting between the schools last year, it was Commerce that walked away victorious after defeating Washington-Wilkes by a score of 28-17. Expect this game to also be one that is circled for both teams heading into the fall. We’ll have to wait and see how it plays out when they hit the field this season.

IMPACT CHANGES Class 1A Public saw a few schools lose their coaches this offseason, making it an intriguing class to watch this fall. Arguably the biggest came at Commerce, where veteran coach Michael Brown stepped down from his role back in March. Former North Cobb Christian coach Mark Hollars was named the new coach of the Tigers back in April. Furthermore, Mitchell County head coach Deshon Brock left the Eagles after four seasons with the school to take the same job at Bradwell Institute. The Eagles hired Dondrial Pinkins, who started out his coaching career at Mitchell County, to be the new head coach. Making the move more interesting is that Pinkins had spent the last six years has the coach of the Pelham Hornets, a divisional rival. With lots of coaching moves, it should be interesting to see who comes out on top come December.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Tucker Clearly

Willie Williams

Social Circle 127 TKS

Mitchell County 624 YDs

Samari Madison

Malcom Jones

Montgomery 115 TKS

Mitchell County 620 YDs

Kenwan Felton

Jaden Hayes

Macon County 115 TKS

Macon County 613 YDs

Shelquavius Byse

Xavier Brantley

Macon County 108 TKS

Montgomery County 603 YDs

hudl.com

TW: Willie Williams

TOP TEN RANKINGS 1A PUBLIC

1 Irwin County

6 Clinch County

Brooks County

Commerce

7 Pelham

Washington-Wilkes

Dublin

Macon County

5 Chattahoochee County

10 Hancock Central

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REGION 2 - 1A PUBLIC

BROOKS COUNTY

AUG

@ Thomasville

AUG @ Cairo

SEPT

@ Mitchell County

Cook

SEPT

@ Irwin County

OCT

Atkinson County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Madison Turner

overall record 13

584

@ Lanier County

OCT

Charlton County

OCT

@ Clinch County

OCT

Turner County

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

OCT

2 Losses Points Scored

Freeman will have quite a few returners on offense this season. Leading that talented group is senior running back Omari Arnold. “He [Arnold] has a lot of offers from colleges,” said Freeman. Arnold has racked up over 4,000 rushing yards in his career at Brooks County, including 1,666 yards last year. He had 26 touchdowns last season also. Taking over at quarterback will be Jamal Sanders, who primarily played receiver last season, but also served as the backup to Burrus last season. The defensive leader, Christian Edgerton, will give the Trojans a huge boost with his return this season.

Points Allowed

181

Head Coach: Maurice Freeman

WHAT TO EXPECT A third straight trip to the state championship could be in the cards for the Trojans. Brooks, despite losing starting quarterback Burrus, will be loaded. They’ll have one of the state’s best running backs returning, along with all of their receivers, defensive backs, both outside linebackers, and junior kicker Reagan Chastain. Freeman said the unit he’s most excited about is his special teams. “I think that’ll be the strength of our team,” says Freeman.

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KEY LOSSES Brooks County loses their standout quarterback Nitavion Burrus, who became the starter midway through his sophomore season and remained the starter through his junior and senior seasons. With Burrus as the starter, the Trojans advanced to the state championship in each of the last two years. On defense, inside linebacker Camron Priest graduates, and will move on to attend school and play football for Carson Newman. His teammate, defensive end ’ J’Shawn Baker, will depart by way of graduation and will play football at Albany State University, where according to coach Maurice Freeman, the Rams plan to move him to linebacker.

Brooks will be right back in the hunt for a state title this season.

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REGION 2 - 1A

AUG

@ Brantley County

SEPT

Long County

SEPT

@ McIntosh County Academy

SEPT Tiftarea

SEPT

Clinch County

CHARLTON COUNTY

OCT

@ Turner County

WHAT TO EXPECT Look for the 2021 Indians team to be the most experienced since Murray took over three years ago from long time coach Rich McWhorter. The team only returned six seniors each of the last two seasons, but will double that amount this year, with 13 returning seniors heading into the season. The Indians will be stronger this year. Murray added the title of strength and conditioning coach to defensive coordinator Bobby Jones’ responsibilities this offseason and says it has already made a big difference. “Our weight room workouts have improved tremendously under coach Jones,” said Murray. “We’ve already noticed a difference in our guy’s strength training over the previous two seasons, and that’s good to see.”

OCT

@ Brooks County

Irwin County

OCT

NOV

@ Lanier County

Atkinson County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

241

Points Scored Points Allowed

312

WHO’S BACK

Head Coach: Russ Murray

The Indians will return several players at key positions this season. That list starts with returning senior defensive lineman Asad Akbar, who was an All-Region selection for his defensive play last year. As a junior, Akbar was named All-Region for his outstanding play on the offensive line. Murray says Indians fans can expect to see the talented lineman contribute on both sides of the ball this season. “Asad isn’t the biggest lineman, but he is one of the most intense competitors I’ve ever been around,” said Murray. Junior wideout Kyler Williams returns, and Murray says he could be ready for a breakout season. He’ll most likely be the main target for returning quarterback senior Jaylen King, a three-year starter for Charlton County. The kicker, Wyatt Crews is back, and Murray says he has been “money” from 30 yards and in. “He’s been working on his kicking this offseason, and we could use him for longer attempts this season,” said Murray.

KEY LOSSES

Charlton finds its way back to the playoffs. I’d say a fourth seed in this region is quite an accomplishment.

While the losses aren’t near as heavy as the previous two off seasons, Charlton will still feel the sting of several quality players not returning to the team in 2021. That’s especially true up front, as the Indians lose three linemen who played on both sides of the ball. The trio consists of Mason Warren, Taquan Pierrain, and Caleal Burroughs, and their sizes will be missed. Each player stood well over 6-foot tall, including Pierrain who is 6 foot 3 inches tall. The team says goodbye to running back Tony Cobb, and long snapper/linebacker Braden Whittenburg, who will attend West Virginia as a preferred walk on. Coach Russ Murray says the Indians will miss Whittenburg’s talent as well as his smarts. “Braden made all of our calls on defense,” said Murray.

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REGION 2 - 1A

CLINCH COUNTY

AUG

Macon County

@ Appling County

SEPT

@ Pelham

SEPT

Pierce County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

overall record 9

288

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

246

Head Coach: Don Tison

WHO’S BACK Coach Tison and his staff will have to search high and low to find new faces this season. The Panthers have just three returners on both sides of the ball coming back. Elijah Tiller will be a welcomed returner on both sides of the ball. He played some quarterback last season, as well as slot receiver and cornerback. Look for Tiller to see extensive time at all three positions once again this year. Also back is running back/linebacker Amazi Williams and center Ben Crosby. On defense, the Panthers return linebackers Andrew McCray and Zack Cason, along with defensive end Danny Fountain.

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@ Charlton County

OCT

@ Turner County

OCT

Atkinson County

OCT

Brooks County

OCT

@ Irwin County

NOV

Lanier County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

This will be one of the least experienced teams in recent memory at Clinch County. With two straight semifinals appearances under Tison, however, don’t expect the third-year head coach to begin settling for and expecting less from his football team. “Our expectations never change here-even if we are returning a few starters,” said Tison. “That’s just not how we do things here.” Tison says one goal that he has heading into this season is to find more speed. “Last year was a good season, and we made some good memories, but we weren’t fast at all,” said Tison. “We have some really good kids coming up that can run and are fast, and that’s something we’re really looking forward to.”

KEY LOSSES Clinch will have to find a way to replace several losses on both sides of the ball. On offense, it starts with a group of running backs that graduate. Running back/safety Tyler Morehead, running back/linebacker Quade Gundy, running back/defensive end Dillil Carter, and running back/linebacker Tajuan Gordon will all be missed. Tison says losing offensive lineman Drake Browning is going to hurt. “Drake was our best offensive lineman, and we didn’t play him on defense,” said Tison. “He’s going to be missed.” Other losses will be offensive linemen/defensive ends Jermaine King and Amari Hodges. Tight end/defensive end Craig Harris and receiver/cornerback Perry Williams have graduated. Clinch loses its punter and kicker James Montgomery to graduation, as well.

It’s hard to imagine Clinch not being in the thick of things. Tison will work to get the most out of his Panthers this year.

REGION 4 - 1A PUBLIC

AUG

Dodge County

SEPT

@ Wheeler County

SEPT

@ Swainsboro

SEPT

Dooly County

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by: ITG Next

overall record 10

477

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

153

@ Hawkinsville

OCT

Wilcox County

OCT

@ Treutlen

OCT

Johnson County

OCT

@ Telfair County

NOV

Montgomery County

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

OCT

DUBLIN

Head Coach: Roger Holmes

WHO’S BACK Returning for Dublin is their leading rusher from the 2020 season. Running back J.T. Wright rushed for 950 yards and 15 touchdowns. Close on Wright’s heels on the stat sheet is running back Marquaveon Ashley, who rushed for 800 yards and nine touchdowns. Split back David Folsom returns to the Fighting Irish’s backfield as well. Folsom rushed for 154 yards and a couple of scores last year. Back on the line for both the offense and defense are guards/defensive ends Desmond Gilbert and Ramontei Dardy. Gilbert is six-foot-three, 230 pounds. Dardy is six-foot-three, 220 pounds.

“It’s going to be a rebuilding year on both sides of the ball,” said head coach Roger Holmes. It certainly will be since Dublin is going to have to replace some key contributors like quarterback Markell Mitchell and the entire offensive line. “We have a lot of unknowns that we have to figure out during the spring and summer,” Holmes said. Time will tell if the Fighting Irish are able to replace their former stars and be able to achieve success like what they saw in 2020 as they finished the season 10-2. Fans should be prepared to see the team lose a little more, though, unless Dublin’s high-powered rushing attack proves to be enough to keep them steadily in the win column.

KEY LOSSES The Fighting Irish will enter the 2021 season without all five of their starting offensive linemen from last season: Montavius Thompkins, Nate Gregory, Darius Stanley, Steven Slaughter, and Drake Walker. Quarterback Markelle Mitchell led the offense with 12 passing touchdowns and 12 rushing touchdowns. Tight end Gabe Guyton scored five times. Running backs Josh Isaac and Jiquarion Mundie were vital in Dublin’s run game. Isaac rushed for 550 yards and eight scores while Mundie rushed for 600 yards and eight scores. Wide receiver/safety Kendell Wade was the team’s return specialist, averaging 12 yards per kick return and 14 yards per punt return. Wade also snagged four INTs on the year.

Dublin will struggle a little more in 2021 as they put the pieces back together on offense, but experience on that side of the ball and size on defense will keep them in the hunt for the playoffs.

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REGION 2 - 1A

IRWIN COUNTY

AUG

SEPT

Fitzgerald

Monroe

SEPT

@ Wilkinson County

SEPT

@ Tift County

SEPT

Brooks County

OCT

@ Lanier County

WHAT TO EXPECT With the entire offensive line returning, plus Soliday at quarterback, Irwin could be in a pretty good position to make yet another run at a region title. The question is, however, will they have enough to make it three state titles in a row? That depends if coach Soliday’s team has someone to step up to replace the big losses on both sides. Losing skill position players like Ward and the Benyard twins is tough to replace, and the entire defensive backfield will have new starters. Coach Soliday says the key to the Indians success will come in the opportunities that present themselves to those looking to make an impact. “It’s going to be interesting to see who steps up this spring,” the head coach said. Coach Soliday expects the offensive line to be the strength of the team. “I want to see our offensive line become dominant this year,” he said.

WHO’S BACK Quarterback Cody Soliday will return to give Irwin experience at the most important offensive position. The junior set school records for most TD passes in a season with 23 as well as passing yards with 1908. Soliday will have his entire offensive line returning to offer protection in the passing game, as well as pave the way for Irwin running backs. Senior linemen Antawii Deans, Noah Brown, Toby brown, and William Johnson are all back. Add returning tight end Eli Roberts, and you have five big bodies that will be back along the offensive line. Soliday’s main target will be returning junior receiver Malachi Hadden. Defensively, Roberts returns and will line up at defensive end. The three starting inside linebackers return in Nemo McCoy, Matthew Payne, and Bryce Clements. Outside backer Marcus Edwards also returns. Soliday will once again handle punting chores, with Evan Ross returning to handle the kicking chores.

Another successful year for the Indians and a trip to the semifinals.

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OCT

@ Atkinson County

OCT

@ Charlton County

OCT

Clinch County

NOV

Turner County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Madison Tucker

2020 STATS overall record 12

Wins 471

3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

181

Head Coach: Casey Soliday

KEY LOSSES Irwin must replace its entire defensive backfield. That includes the popular Benyard brothers, who have been a major reason for the Indians success over the last few years. However, they will continue playing together at Kennesaw State. Other losses in the Indians’ defensive backfield include corner Jordan Payne and safety Derrick Taylor, who will play collegiately at Albany State. Irwin also loses defensive linemen Bobby Collins and Asaiah Tyson. Head coach Casey Soliday says the losses will most definitely be felt. “Most of the guys we lost were four-year starters, so it’s going to be interesting to see who steps up,” he said. Offensively, Irwin loses their biggest playmaker in running back Kam Ward, as well as guard Jalen Billingsley and center Harmon Smith, who coach Soliday says will be very hard to replace. “Harmon was really good at reading the defense at the line,” coach Soliday said. “He communicated with everyone really well.”

REGION 2 - 1A PUBLIC

AUG

@ Treutlen

AUG Berrien

SEPT

Blountstown (FL)

SEPT

@ Baconton

OCT

Irwin County

LANIER COUNTY

OCT

Brooks County

WHAT TO EXPECT The bulldogs finished the 2020 season at 3-6 overall and were unable to come away with any wins in region play. This was while the offense was being led by three players who would go on to sign athletic scholarships, including a quarterback in Brockington who set a ton of passing records. I think these losses are going to be hard to overcome for the Bulldogs even though their top receiver, Wright, and their top defensive back, Wade, are coming back. The Bulldogs are going to need some young guys to step up and be ready to play at a high level if they are going to have any chance at improving their record in 2021. According to head coach Kurt Williams, they might have just that. “We’re hoping our culture takes off this year, my fourth year here,” Williams said. “We’ve got a huge senior class, probably 22 guys, and some good rising freshman coming up. I don’t want to put any expectations on them as far as wins and losses, we’re just going to play.”

WHO’S BACK Despite some heavy losses, the Bulldogs will be getting some good players back for the 2021 season. All-Region wide receiver Kish Wright, All-Region linebacker/running back Jaylon Calhoun, defensive back Kahmarian Wade, defensive end Tykerion Powell, and offensive lineman/defensive lineman Damarcus Eubanks are all taking the field again for the Bulldogs in 2021. Calhoun was All-Region as a sophomore and is looking to improve upon his performance in 2020 when he was the team’s second-leading rusher. Defensively, Wade led the team in INTs with four. It is good for the Bulldogs chances of success that Wade will remain in their secondary this year.

Lanier County is in a tough region playing against teams like Brooks County and Irwin County, just to name a couple, and they are in the process of replacing a star quarterback in Rashod Brockington. Lanier County may lose a few more games in 2021 than it did in 2020.

OCT

@ Turner County

OCT

@ Atkinson County

OCT

NOV

Charlton County

@ Clinch County

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography courtesy of hudl.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses

177

Points Scored Points Allowed

239

Head Coach: Kurt Williams

KEY LOSSES The Bulldogs are losing nine seniors this year. Three of those players have signed to play college football at the University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky. Quarterback Rashod Brockington, offensive lineman/defensive lineman Kelvin Gaines, and running back/defensive back Andreas Anderson are all leaving Lanier to play college football together. These losses are going to hurt the Lanier County team that already struggled to win last season. Brockington set every school passing record on his way out, and losing Anderson means losing a player that solidly contributed on both offense and defense.

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REGION 3 - 1A PUBLIC

MCINTOSH CO. ACADEMY

AUG

Glynn Academy

AUG Brunswick

SEPT

Charlton County

SEPT

Bryan County

SEPT

@ Claxton

OCT

Emanuel County Institute

WHAT TO EXPECT The Buccaneers didn’t have an overly impressive record in 2020 when they recorded seven wins and four losses. According to head coach Bradley Warren, they will play “one of the toughest schedules in A football.” Now that they have lost running back Trenton Johnson, who put the ball in the end zone more than anyone else on the team, the Buccaneers have an uphill climb in front of them. Linebacker Quan Proctor’s return will be a plus for the team, but they have lost another good linebacker in Miles Wood and a good defensive back in Khay Lloyd. For the Buccaneers to improve upon a commendable performance in 2020, they are going to have to surpass expectations. On paper, it appears the Buccaneers won’t attain the same amount of success in 2020, but you can’t always go by what’s on paper. “We’re going to play hard and see what happens,” coach Warren said.

KEY LOSSES Some key players on both sides of the ball are headed to play in college this year. On offense, running back Trenton Johnson will play at Savannah State, and tight end Ryan Burkhart will join Johnson at Savannah State. On defense, linebacker Miles Wood will be playing for Washington and Lee University and defensive back Khay Lloyd is headed for West Point. The Buccaneers will really miss Johnson’s team-leading 1,547 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns that led them to a 7-4 overall record last year.

With the loss of some key players on both sides of the ball, the Buccaneers may lose a couple of more games in 2021 than they did a season ago.

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OCT

@ Metter

Screven County

OCT

NOV

@ Portal

@ Jenkins County

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography courtesy of thebrunswicknews.com

2020 STATS overall record 7

Wins

259

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

188

Head Coach: Bradley Warren

WHO’S BACK Returning for the Buccaneers is All-State defensive lineman Will Jones and outside linebacker Quan Proctor. Proctor is a 6-foot-3-inch, (196)-pound senior this year who has several Division I offers so far. They include offers from East Carolina, Marshall, Middle Tennessee State, Toledo, and Western Kentucky. While McIntosh Academy has plenty of holes to fill on offense, fans can be excited about having Proctor and Jones back to anchor a defense that only gave up four overall losses, including only one region loss in 2020.

REGION 3 - 1 A

AUG Swainsboro

AUG

South Effingham

SEPT

@ Savannah Country Day

@ Portal

SEPT

@ Jenkins County

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of metterathletics.com

Screven County

OCT

McIntosh County Academy

OCT

@ Bryan County

OCT

@ Claxton

NOV

Emanuel County Institute

Even if Metter can’t match its excellent 2020 campaign, the Tigers should be a force in Region 3-A Public and could contend for another region championship this year. Metter’s defense should be regarded as one of the best units in all of Class A Public, and they’ll prove that early on versus South Georgia foes.

overall record 13

1 Losses

503 100

OCT

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

METTER

Points Scored

Metter wins its region and advances to the Class A Public Elite 8. The defense will record at least three shutouts along the way.

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Rodney Garvin

WHO’S BACK Rising junior and linebacker C.J. Donaldson is back after winning the region’s defensive Player of the Year award as a sophomore last season. Also back on the defensive side of the ball are senior Danny Cheley and junior linebacker Ethan Oglesby. The offense should be paced by running back R.J. Coney and wide receiver Cameron Robinson. The offensive line will be anchored by Brooks Longgrear and Brayden Burke.

KEY LOSSES The Tigers will need to replace a lot from a 2020 team, which advanced to the Class A Public Final 4 and made a name for itself as one of the best in program history. Metter (13-1) rode a dominant defense to an unblemished record until meeting eventual state champion Irwin County in the semifinals. Offensively, Metter loses first team All-Region selections in Taj Hobbs (athlete) and Aaron Collins (running back). ITG Next | 211

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REGION 1 - 1A

AUG

@ Worth County

Pelham

SEPT

@ Early County

SEPT Westover

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

overall record Wins

287 261

SEPT

Brooks County

SEPT

@ Miller County

OCT

Seminole County

OCT

Randolph -Clay

OCT

Terrell County

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 5

MITCHELL COUNTY

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Dondrial Pinkins

WHAT TO EXPECT Coach Brock leaves the Eagles program in very good shape. That is already a huge advantage for Pinkins, who returns for the second time as head coach. He previously coached Mitchell County from 2008 to 2011, winning the region title in 2010. Mitchell could be in position to win another one this season with several key parts and people in place to make it happen. Look for the strength of the team to be their experience returning at the key skill positions, along with the interior of the line. Pinkins, a former quarterback, will have a sophomore in Jackson to work with and mold into the type of quarterback he wants running the team. Look for the Eagles to score a lot and often, and to be stout on the defensive side of the ball this season.

Two senior receivers who figure to play big roles in the Mitchell County offense in 2021 are Roderick Fowler and Ja’myez Thompson. Offensive /defensive lineman Al Childs will return to cause havoc in the middle of both lines. “He’s our ‘bell cow’,” said Pinkins. Another big body that will return this season will be senior tight end/defensive end Desmeyan Daniels, whose 6-foot-4-inch frame will provide Jackson a big target as a receiver offensively, as well as an additional run blocker.

KEY LOSSES After spending the past four seasons as the Eagles head coach, Deshon Brock has left the southwest Georgia program for Bradwell Institute, where he will take over as head coach this season. The new head coach is Dondrial Pinkins, who returns to his Alma Mater. He will inherit a program that must replace the Region Offensive Player of the Year and starting quarterback/cornerback Quentavious Hunter, who threw for over 1,400 yards and rushed for another 551 yards. Amazingly, the departing athlete also threw 12 TD passes and ran for another 13 TD’s. Another key playmaker on offense that will be missed is RB Darian Williams, who averaged right at 9 yards per-carry last season. Both Williams and Hunter will attend Birmingham Prep Academy. Athlete Zaquavious Robinson saw the field quite a lot in his senior season.

Coach Pinkins leads the Eagles to a successful regular season, with a chance to make a deep run into the playoffs.

ITG Next | 213

REGION 1 - 1A

PELHAM

AUG

@ Mitchell County

AUG

Early County

SEPT Cook

SEPT

Clinch County

OCT

@ Toombs County

OCT

Randolph -Clay

WHO’S BACK Coach Landing says he is excited about the talent he has returning to the team this season. He points out the thing about being a new coach is that everyone is a new face, so what’s happened before his arrival is “in the past.” Landing says he’s been able to see those players that stand out, and he likes what he sees so far in a handful of players including middle linebacker and senior Jayden Parker. He is a run stopper and can get after the quarterback as his four sacks can attest. Other players that Landing points out are returning include senior linebacker Jaheim Frazier and two-way returner Lavorris Hines, who will play running back and cornerback for the Hornets. Two other defensive players have caught the attention of Landing: defensive end Jaramiah Vicks, who the coach says “is very impressive so far,” and JR Redmond, who Landing says is going to be counted on in a big way this year. Offensively, jJunior Jeray Randall Jr. will return at running back and kick returner.

KEY LOSSES The Hornets say goodbye to former head coach Dondrial Pinkins, who leaves Pelham to return to his Alma Mater of Mitchell County. Stepping in to take the reigns of the Hornets football program is Lamar Landing, who has been coaching football for close to 30 years. He comes from Thomas Co Central, where he oversaw the middle school football program. He will inherit a Pelham squad minus its starting quarterback Brantley Shiver, who threw for 639 yards and 13 touchdowns in his career for the Hornets. He also added three rushing touchdowns as the Hornets’ signal caller. He and standout outside linebacker Jaylon Copeland will be taking their talent to Point University, where each signed a letter of intent. Also leaving by way of graduation will be defensive end Davion Rhodes. He leaves with 174 career tackles, 11 sacks, and four fumble recoveries to his credit. Wide receivers Cameron Bailey and Jeremiah Stewart will also be missed.

Look for the Hornets’ winning ways to continue with Landing.

214 | itgnext.com

OCT

@ Miller County

OCT

@ Schley County

OCT

@ Terrell County

Seminole County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Milla Photography

2020 STATS overall record 6

Wins

2 Losses

256 119

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Lamar Landing

WHAT TO EXPECT Landing will try to maintain the winning atmosphere that exists at Pelham. The Hornets advanced to consecutive class A semifinal appearances in 2018 and 2019, and last year finished with just two losses, one being a stunning defeat in round two of the playoffs to Clinch. The biggest challenge facing the new head coach is at quarterback, where incoming senior transfer Zane Touchton and sophomore Den Johnsonare competing for the starting job. A player to keep an eye on this year is offensive lineman Garrett Landing. The sophomore is already getting serious looks by several Division I schools, including the University of Florida and Georgia Tech. There is a lot of talent at Pelham, and Landing knows how to put everyone in the right places.

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REGION 2 - 1A

TURNER COUNTY

AUG

@ Worth County

SEPT

Fitzgerald

SEPT

@ Seminole County

Dougherty

SEPT

@ Atkinson County

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Madison Turner

overall record Wins

Charlton County

OCT

Clinch County

OCT

Lanier County

OCT

@ Brooks County

NOV

@ Irwin County

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 6

OCT

309

Losses Points Scored

There are a few key players returning in 2021 to help push Johnson’s Titans a little further this season. It starts with returning junior quarterback Amarion Blanks, who threw for just over 1,700 yards last season along with 14 touchdowns. His completion percentage was an impressive 64%, with 123 completions out of 193 attempts. Joining Blanks in the backfield will be senior running back Elijah Stephens. Snapping the ball to the returning signal caller will be senior center Zetavious Pierce. On the defensive side of things, Turner County welcomes back linebackers Zavaad Bynum and MonQuarik Taylor, plus defensive end Aaron Walker.

Points Allowed

264

Head Coach: Kevious Johnson

WHAT TO EXPECT Johnson and his Titans should be poised for a pretty good run this season, having graduated just seven seniors from last year’s playoff team. With their starting quarterback returning along with 1,100-yard rusher Elijah Stephens back at running back, the offense should be in good shape. Johnson led Turner to a 6-5 record and a trip to the state playoffs last season, but the Titans lost their final three games of the season, including the one-point loss to Metter in the first round of the postseason.

KEY LOSSES Head football coach Kevious Johnson will face his biggest challenge since taking over at Turner County, as he will be replacing key components of his line on both sides of the ball. “We are losing a bunch of offensive and defensive linemen due to graduation,” Johnson said. That includes two impact linemen who will be sorely missed on both sides of the line this season. Zach Brown, who played offensive guard as well as defensive tackle, leaves via graduation, as does his linemate on both sides of the ball, Kyjuan Hudson. Both players were big bodies, each standing at 6-foot-2 and tipping the scales just a notch shy of 300 pounds. Another two-way player who graduates and whose talents will be missed is wide receiver/defensive back Keonvay Clark.

Expect Turner to host a first-round home playoff game this season. I also see a trip to the quarterfinals for Johnson and the team.

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REGION 4 - 1A

AUG

@ Bleckley County

SEPT

Schley County

SEPT

Johnson County

SEPT

@ Telfair County

SEPT

Montgomery County

WILCOX COUNTY

OCT

Wheeler County

WHAT TO EXPECT “We’re 9-3 over the last two years,” coach Stowe said. “I think we’ve established a culture here. We’ve just got to get past tight games in the playoffs. We’ve been losing in close games to teams that go on to win the state championship.” Wilcox County will have the pieces to put together a state championship-caliber team this year. All signs are pointing to the Patriots becoming the team to beat in A football. Despite losing some standouts on defense, the Patriots are returning an overwhelming majority of their standout players on both offense and defense. Look for quarterback Abe Stowe to lead a very talented Patriots offense and safety BJ Gibson to lead a dominant Patriots defense to the state championship in 2021.

WHO’S BACK While the Patriots are losing some great linebackers, the defensive line and the secondary are shaping up to be very dangerous in 2021. “I am very excited about the experience I am going to have on my defensive line,” head coach Rob Stowe said. All four of Wilcox County’s defensive lineman are three-year starters. All-Region defensive linemen Kassidy Deans and Isaiah Turner will be joined once again by Amir Dwight and Jaimon Hilliard. In the secondary, BJ Gibson is moving to safety from cornerback. Gibson is being recruited for both football and baseball. He is joined in the secondary by cornerback Devonn Grace. Both Gibson and Grace have been getting recruited since they were sophomores. All-Region wide receiver Jashun Coley will be taking over at the other cornerback spot. Joining Coley on offense in 2021 is All-Region running back Dayshawn Lawson. Leading the offense in 2021 will be quarterback Abe Stowe. Stowe was All-Region as a sophomore and played in the Georgia Elite Classic.

Wilcox County will go far in the playoffs in 2021 and will likely end the season being crowned as the state champions of A football.

OCT

@ Dublin

OCT

Dooly County

OCT

@ Hawkinsville

NOV

@ Treutlen

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography courtesy of hudl.com

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins

3 Losses

477

Points Scored Points Allowed

174

Head Coach: Rob Stowe

KEY LOSSES Defensively, Wilcox County is taking a hit with the loss of some very talented linebackers. All-State linebacker Martez Thrower has signed to play football at the University of Kentucky. While at Wilcox County, Thrower delivered some bone-crushing plays at linebacker as he was responsible for breaking three of his opponents’ helmets. Linebacker Branson Owens has signed to play football at Army. On offense, the Patriots are losing All-State offensive lineman Curtis Leflore Jr. who is signed with the University of the Cumberlands.

ITG Next | 221

Written by: Nick Anschultz

PASSING LEADERS

RUSHING LEADERS David Dallas

Tyson Wall

Trinity Christian 2,272 YDs

Trinity Christian 1,241 YDS

Jake Merklinger

Tre Hawkins

Calvary Day 2,107 YDS

Athens Academy 858 YDS

Gavin Hall

George Walton 1,268 YDS

Tyler Foley Landmark Christian 1,260 YDS

George Walton 720 YDS

Brandon Hood ELCA 677 YDS

hudl.com

TW: Gavin Hall

GAMES TO WATCH

Fellowship Christian @ Trinity Christian

Savannah Country Day @ Aquinas

Trinity Christian @ Athens Academy

Both Fellowship Christian and Trinity Christian had strong seasons in 2020. The Paladins finished with an 11-1 overall record and fell to the Lions in the A-Private Elite 8. Trinity Christian returns starting quarterback David Dallas, who threw for over 2,000 yards in 2020 and was a Class 1A Private GHSA All-State Football Team honorable mention. Meanwhile, Fellowship Christian loses starting quarterback Eli Hildebrandt but returns its second-leading rusher from a year ago in running back Josh Cole. Cole racked up almost 600 yards on the ground and 10 touchdowns. This should be an exciting rematch when these two teams meet early on in the season.

Last season, these two teams met in one of the more exciting contests in A-Private. Aquinas squandered a two touchdown lead late in the fourth quarter after leading for most of the game’s entirety. Savannah Country Day went onto win by a final score of 29-28 after scoring two touchdowns and handed the Fightin’ Irish their first loss of the season. Both squads return some offensive weapons from a year ago that should make this rematch one to keep an eye on come the fall. Quarterback Barry Kleinpeter is back for Savannah Country Day after throwing for almost 800 yards and five touchdowns in 2020. Additionally, Aquinas gets one of its top three backs from a year ago in running back RJ Edwards. He had over 600 yards on the ground and 10 touchdowns last season. We’ll see if this year’s matchup is just as exciting.

Two of A-Private’s top returning rushers square off when Trinity Christian and Athens Academy meet in week one to kick off both team’s seasons. Tyson Wall had over 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Lions in 2020, while Tre Hawkins had over 800 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground for Athens Academy. The Spartans took last season’s meeting between the two teams by a final score of 1710. Expect big ground numbers when the two squads meet again in the fall.

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IMPACT CHANGES It should be interesting to see how A-Private shapes out in 2021. Prince Avenue Christian captured its first state title after defeating Trinity Christian in the state championship last season. But the Wolverines will be replacing plenty of talent from that championship team, including star quarterback and Georgia Bulldog commit Brock Vandagriff. Trinity Christian, which finished state runner-up a year ago, returns quite a handful of talented players, including quarterback David Dallas and running back Tyson Wall. In terms of coaching changes, North Cobb Christian head coach Mark Hollars was hired for the same role at Commerce back in April, leaving the head coaching vacancy open. The Eagles hired former Lanier High School offensive coordinator, Matt Jones, to be the next head coach back in May. We’ll see how this class shapes out this fall.

TACKLE LEADERS

RECEIVING LEADERS

Coleman Cauley

Sam Wooten

First Presbyterian Day 146 TKS

Christian Heritage 932 YDs

Peyton Cromwell

Joshua Dallas

Savannah Christian 146 TKS

Trinity Christian 882 YDs

Caleb Lavallee

George Futch

Whitfield Academy 135 TKS

Savannah Christian 797 YDs

JD Chipman

Jack Luttrell

Wesleyan 120 TKS

Hebran Christian 778 YDs

TW: Caleb Lavallee

TW: Evan Lester

TOP TEN RANKINGS 1A PRIVATE

2 ELCA

Trinity Christian

7 Wesleyan

Calvary Day

Prince Ave Christian Fellowship Christian Savannah Christian

Christian Heritage North Cobb Christian

10 Athens Academy

ITG Next | 223

REGION 8 - A PRIVATE

ATHENS ACADEMY

AUG

Trinity Christian

AUG

@ Charlotte Country Day

SEPT

@ Commerce

SEPT

Providence Christian

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 2 Losses

470

Points Scored Points Allowed

275

Head Coach: Josh Alexander

KEY LOSSES Offensively, Athens Academy will be hit where it hurts. They lose all-region QB Palmer Bush and WR Deion Colzie, a four-star Notre Dame commit. Additionally, wide receivers Jack Nasworthy and Nick Xie also graduated. These two men also play in the secondary defensively. In the trenches, the Spartans lose two all-classification studs in John Ferguson and Hugh Laughlin. The linebackers group will take a sizable hit with the loss of Ethan Connelly, Clark O’Neill, and Will Goggin to graduation. The chemistry won’t be hurt too much in the secondary since the only 2020 position-specific senior to leave is CB Braden Fass.

224 | itgnext.com

@ Hebron Christian

OCT Wesleyan

OCT

Prince Ave Christian

OCT

@ Loganville Christian

OCT

@ Athens Christian

OCT

George Walton

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

Success really has not been too hard to come by for Athens Academy. Since 1991, the Spartans have only had 2 losing seasons. They have also managed to win at least nine games annually since 2015, when current coach Josh Alexander was hired. This upcoming season will bring its own set of challenges, as critical QB-WR duo Bush and Colzie graduate. Replacing these key positions will likely determine the Spartans’ overall success. On defense specifically, the secondary will need to improve from last year, as they were torched in some of the biggest games in 2020. However, based on the program’s past success, it is safe to say that Athens Academy will still find a way to get the job done.

WHO’S BACK Young talent will have to step up for the Spartans, especially offensively. Athens Academy will have the choice of two QBs for 2021: sophomore Sam Bush and junior Sam Johnson. Giovanni Newsome and all-region RB Tre Hawkins will lead the running game as juniors next season. The wide receivers will also retain much of their strength with Reid Bangle, Asa Drudge, Taylor Muir, and others. On the defensive line, junior Johnerio Holt will be a force to be reckoned with in 2021. The secondary will also be fairly set with several two-way options, including Robert Reynolds, Jake Williams, Will Warner, and others. This defensive group is also loaded with freshman talent, which should bode well for the future.

Replacing skill position losses will be tough, but I still predict a 10-3 season with a quarterfinals appearance.

ITG Next | 225

BROOKSTONE

AUG

@ Calvary Christian

REGION 4 - 1A PRIVATE

AUG

SEPT

Walker

SEPT

@ First Mount de @ Whitefield Presbyterian Sales Academy Academy

OCT

@ Landmark Christian

OCT

Trinity Christian

Josey

OCT

@ St. Anne -Pacelli

NOV

Heritage (Newnan)

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of ledger-enquirer.com

WHAT TO EXPECT If there is a theme for the Cougars this season, its youth. That includes youth at a critical skill position and along both lines. “We will be young on both sides of the ball with our interior [line],” said Harrison. The Cougars quarterback is also young, with sophomore Taft Middleton taking over the position with the departure of Sanders. But despite being just a sophomore, Middleton can throw it. “Taft is a big arm guy,” said Harrison. The coach likes how Taft has taken ownership of the team, which he says will fit in perfectly with his teammates. “We have some really good senior leadership on this team, and I think that will help our quarterback and his confidence,” he said. Despite the youth along the lines, there is experience at key positions, especially on defense.

KEY LOSSES

Three-year starter at running back and corner Sam Kilgore will not be back. He amassed 1,133 rushing yards along with 11 rushing touchdowns during his career at the Columbus area school. He also added 92 tackles on defense. The Cougars will miss a couple of big guys who were very tough on the inside, according to head coach Blair Harrison. “Wesley Brown and John Kim are two really good players,” said Harrison. “They will be a big loss for us.” Brown will head off to continue his football career at Rhodes College. Quarterback Trey Sanders had a solid career at Brookstone, throwing for 1048 yards and eight touchdowns. He also added four rushing touchdowns. Safety and fullback Dan Amos will not return, leaving with 548 rushing yards to his credit along with nine rushing touchdowns. He also racked up 49 total tackles on defense as the Cougars safety.

A good year for the Cougars and their fans.

2020 STATS overall record Wins

251 279

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Blair Harrison

WHO’S BACK Brookstone welcomes back middle line backer Andrew Newton, who led the Cougars in tackles over the last two seasons, according to Harrison. The rising senior was an All-Region and All-State selection and was selected as the Brookstone Defensive MVP last season. He has 203 tackles so far in his career and is one of several key returners this season. Jack Schondelmayer, a running back/defensive back, is another returning senior who is an impact player. He is a returning three-year starter. He has 508 rushing yards on 107 carries so far with five touchdowns. Senior running back/defensive back Joel Jones will be returning for his final season at Brookstone, before most likely playing for an Ivy League school, according to Harrison.

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REGION 3 - A PRIVATE

AUG

Prince Ave Christian

AUG

@ Bulloch Academy

SEPT

Frederica Academy

SEPT

@ North Cobb @ First Christian Presbyterian

CALVARY DAY

SEPT

Strong Rock Christian

WHAT TO EXPECT As quarterback, Jake Merklinger will try and limit the interceptions this season after throwing 12 last year. He’ll likely lean on two-way standouts Juwan (deleted letter u. Spelling error) Johnson and Troy Ford Jr. (Georgia Tech, Notre Dame are among his several other Power-5 scholarship offers) for explosive plays while sophomore AJ Butts and senior Brian Joiner may tag-team to fill the void left by Daniel’s departure. Defensively, Butts had 87 tackles last season while Ford tallied five sacks. Johnson paced the team’s 14 total interceptions with four picks of his own.

OCT

Stratford Academy

OCT

Savannah Christian

OCT

NOV

@ Savannah Country Day

@ Aquinas

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of hudl.com

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins

306

Points Scored Points Allowed

242

KEY LOSSES Running back Greg Daniel (273 carries, 1,799 yards, 15 touchdowns in 2020) has graduated and moved on to play collegiately at West Point. Also gone from last season’s Class A-Private Final Four squad are wide receiver Brogan Korta (52 catches, 706 yards, eight touchdowns) and defensive lineman and Georgia State signee Fuches Lewis II (36 tackles, eight tackles for loss in eight games). Offensive lineman Ryan Merklinger will (also) -NA be missed along the Calvary front.

Calvary should be a threat to win Region 3-A Private in 2021. Jake Merklinger will throw for 20 touchdowns and rush for eight more to lead the Cavs into the state playoffs.

Losses

Head Coach: Mark Stroud

WHO’S BACK After starting every game behind center as a freshman in 2020, Jake Merklinger returns for his sophomore campaign with big expectations for head coach Mark Stroud’s team. A passer polished beyond his years, Jake Merklinger threw for 2,107 yards and 18 scores while completing nearly 65% of his passes.

ITG Next | 227

REGION 1 - 1A PRIVATE

DEERFIELD-WINDSOR

AUG

@ Schley County

AUG

Miller County

SEPT

Southland Academy

SEPT

Tattnall Square Academy

SEPT

@ Savannah Christian

OCT

Savannah @ Strong Rock @ First @ Mount de Country Day Christian Presbyterian Sales Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT “We’re going to be young; it’s only our second year in the GHSA,” head coach Jake McCrae said. This is going to be the Knights’ biggest obstacle in 2021: competing with such a young team while being a new team in an objectively tougher classification. The Knights are in a building phase as a team right now, and it could take some time before they are making runs in the playoffs and finding themselves in future state title games. However, that’s just the nature of the beast when it comes to high school football. What the Knights will need in 2021 is a leader, and it looks like quarterback Thomas Ray is going to be that leader. “It all depends on him,” McCrae said.

KEY LOSSES Deerfield-Windsor lost almost 20 seniors going into 2021. This group includes a couple of All-Region players on offense and defense, and the team has lost some experience on the offensive line. All-Region defensive back/wide receiver Parker Jones and All-Region linebacker/running back Gleaton Jones will not be joining the Knights again this season. Offensive lineman Levi May has graduated as well, leaving a hole that needs to be filled in the Knights’ offense.

Deerfield-Windsor is a team that is still trying to make a name for itself in GHSA football. This season will be another tough—but necessary—step in that direction. The Knights may increase their win total from 2020 by one at season’s end in 2021.

228 | itgnext.com

OCT

NOV

Stratford Academy

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography courtesy of americustimesrecorder.com

2020 STATS overall record 2 Wins

144

Losses Points Scored

357

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Jake McCrae

WHO’S BACK The Knights lost some key players on both sides of the ball, but they will be returning some key players on offense in 2021 and adding some new players to the starting defense. Quarterback Thomas Ray will be leading the Knights’ offense in 2021. Joining Ray is running back Ethan Johnson and tight end Will Plowden. Defensively, linebacker Harrison Dyke will be joining the Knights this season. Dyke is a transfer student from Ware County. Linebacker is a position that needs to be solid for the Knights to compete in 2021, and the addition of Dyke could help the Knights greatly.

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EAGLES LANDING CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

AUG

@ Woodward Academy

AUG

@ Heritage (Newnan)

REGION 2 - 1A PRIVATE

SEPT

Rabun County

SEPT

@ Crisp County

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography by: henryherald.com

overall record 9

369

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

191

Head Coach: Jonathan Gess

KEY LOSSES The Chargers are losing a vital part of their offense in quarterback Philip Massengale. Massengale threw for almost 1,000 yards and nine touchdowns last season. On the ground, Massengale accounted for 656 yards and nine touchdowns. The Chargers will also be without the team’s leading rusher, running back Josh Rogers, who rushed for 900 yards and 11 touchdowns. Wide receiver Mac Craig, the team’s most productive wideout, has graduated as well.

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Blessed Trinity

OCT

Trinity Christian

OCT

@ St. Anne-Pacelli

OCT

@ St. Xavier (OH)

OCT

@ Whitefield Academy

NOV

Landmark Christian

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The Eagles are in a position where they must rebuild the offense in all areas: passing, rushing, and receiving. They were successful in 2020 because of a solid group of players on offense who could successfully move the ball down the field and get in the endzone. In 2021, we will have to wait and see if they were able to fill in those holes with guys who can be just as—if not more—productive. Don’t expect the Eagles to fare as well as they did in 2020. They are most likely going to need some time to put the pieces back together and find their identity as a team again, especially on offense.

WHO’S BACK Returning on offense in 2021 is running back Brandon Hood who rushed for almost 700 yards and nine touchdowns last season as a freshman. Hood was the team’s second-leading rusher behind Rogers, and he will likely be a staple for the ELCA offense for a few more years. Also returning on offense are the team’s second-leading wideout, running back/wide receiver Cameron Sigur, and running back Jacque Holley. Defensively, the Chargers are returning linebacker Dylan Mullins, who recorded a couple of INTs and linebacker Jason Reynolds, who recorded an INT and recovered two fumbles in 2020.

With the loss of some offensive standouts like Massengale and Rogers, the Eagles may lose a few more games this season than they did in 2020.

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REGION 6 - 1 A PRIVATE

FELLOWSHIP CHRISTIAN

AUG

@ Christian Heritage

SEPT

@ Trinity Christian

SEPT

B.E.S.T Academy

SEPT

North Cobb Christian

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of fellowshipchristianschool.org

2020 STATS overall record 11

Wins 537

1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

141

Head Coach: Tim McFarlin

KEY LOSSES The Paladins lost 17 out of their 22 starters from the 2020 season. Of the 17 players who started in 2020, five of them signed to play football in college. Offensive lineman Charlie Patterson committed to play football at the University of Virginia and quarterback Eli Hildebrandt committed to play football at Washington and Lee. Hildebrandt threw for 785 yards and 10 touchdowns (last season). He added 365 yards and three scores on the ground. Linebackers Lawson Haigler and Caleb McClung have committed to play football at Wheaton (College). Linebacker Nathan Nardone has committed to play football at Wofford. Nardone led the team in total tackles with 60.

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SEPT St. Francis

OCT

@ Lakeview Academy

OCT Clarkston

OCT

King’s Ridge

OCT

@ Mt. Pisgah Christian

NOV

@ Whitefield Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT McFarlin was hired by Fellowship Christian in February. McFarlin comes to Fellowship Christian after leading Blessed Trinity (Roswell, Ga.) to a 112-10-1 record over 10 years at the school. He has the most wins as coach in North Fulton history. McFarlin is joining a program that wins. The Paladins have won at least 10 games over the last three seasons. Look for this success to continue under the leadership of McFarlin. “We’re going to play good football,” McFarlin said. “We have introduced an entirely new scheme on offense and defense. The kids are all in . . . they’re excited, and the coaches are excited.”

WHO’S BACK Running back and linebacker Josh Cole will be a 6-foot-2-inch, 225-pound senior. New head coach Tim McFarlin says Cole will play in college. The Paladins have two players competing at quarterback: junior Caleb McMickle and junior Johnny Long. McFarlin says both quarterbacks are very mobile and can throw exceptionally well. Both McMickle and Long will play defensive back as well. The offensive and defensive line will be young, made up of mainly tenth and eleventh-graders. Linebacker/tight end Kyle Elphick is a 6-foot-2-inch, 210-pound junior. Elphick will be joined at linebacker by senior Josh Cole and junior Nick Persiano. Persiano will also play fullback on offense.

The Paladins will continue winning in 2021 and make a deep run in the playoffs.

REGION 1 - 1A PRIVATE

AUG

ACE Charter (Mercer Univ.)

SEPT

Brookstone

@ Aquinas

SEPT

Calvary Day

OCT

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN DAY

OCT

@ Savannah @ Tattnall Square Mount de Christian Academy Sales Academy

OCT

Deerfield -Windsor

OCT

NOV

@ Stratford Academy

Strong Rock Christian

Written by: Dhruv Mohan Photography courtesy of fpdmacon.org

WHAT TO EXPECT Under head coach Greg Moore, the Vikings have consistently hovered around six wins annually since 2000. They have not reached the quarterfinals since 2012, despite having been to the playoffs every year except 2018. Last year, the Vikings had three close losses, which could have improved their chances at going farther in the playoffs. This year, they will have to adapt to a new backfield and an overall lineup, which is now exposed to younger talent. Their first two games, ACE Charter and Brookstone, should be good indicators of this team’s success in 2021. If FPD can win by sizable margins, there should be hope for another appearance in quarterfinals.

KEY LOSSES The Vikings have graduated their starting QB Parker Ingram and RB Matthew Hurt, who compiled almost all the team’s offensive yards in 2020. Three of their four leading pass catchers have graduated as well: Jordan Jones, Andrew Correa, and Barrett Barkley. The offensive line will lose some first-team All-Region selections as well. Defensively, the line backing group will take a hit with Jackson Jones and team captain Graham Meyer. The secondary will lose some of its productive players as well: Walker Andress, Matt Rose, and the aforementioned Jones. The Vikings rely on two-way players, and that may cost them in terms of graduating production.

I predict a season with no losses in region and a second-round playoff exit.

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins

347

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

148

Head Coach: Greg D. Moore

WHO’S BACK The Vikings will need to work with a new QB under center, and it seems that rising sophomore Jakhari Williams will take over those duties. The running game will likely rely on Griffin Green, and the receiving corps will need Jackson Moore and Brady Roper to step up in terms of production. Despite the losses at linebacker, the Vikings should be in good hands with rising playmakers in Coleman Cauley (who led the team in tackles last year), Ethan Wilson, and Micah Henley. Cauley also led the team in interceptions, and both Wilson and Henley will likely also flex in the secondary.

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ITG Next | 233

REGION 5 - 1A PRIVATE

HOLY INNOCENTS' EPISCOPAL

AUG

SEPT

Christ School Christ Church @ Prince Ave @ Loganville (NC) Episcopal (SC) Christian Christian Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of athletics.hies.org

overall record 4

Losses

219

Points Scored

217

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Todd Winter

KEY LOSSES The Golden Bears lost some real talent in the four seniors that they had sign to play college football in 2021. Tight end/safety Landon Kardian committed to play football at Kennesaw State. Punter Marshall Nichols committed to play football at Mississippi State. Defensive back TyQuann Alexander committed to play football at Shorter. On the offensive line, the Golden Bears will have a hole to fill after the departure of All-State center Conor Swennumson. There are holes to fill in every aspect of Golden Bears football in 2021. The team has lost key skill position players on offense, offensive linemen, defensive and special teams players.

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Athens Christian

OCT

@ George Walton @ Providence Academy Christian

OCT

Mount Vernon

OCT

@ Wesleyan

NOV

Hebron Christian Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The team fared well in their spring game against North Atlanta, and head coach Todd Winter is confident in their potential. “Based on our schedule, the first game will be a big test,” he said. Holy Innocents’ will open the 2021 season with a game against the Christ School Greenies, who are riding a win-streak of six games after finishing the 2020 season with a state title victory. “If we are able to stay healthy, we should be able to compete in every game,” Winter said. “This is the biggest team I have had since I coached in college and 7A.” Winter is referring to “biggest team” as the physical size of several players. This size and athleticism will help Holy Innocents compete in 2021.

WHO’S BACK Leading the Golden Bears’ defense for the 2021 season is senior defensive end Luca Chuecos and Jacobi Murray. Chuecos is a six-foot-four-inch, 240-pound defender who already has an offer from Samford, and Murray is a six-foot-twoinch, 240-pound sophomore who has an offer from Georgia Tech. Nose guard Charlie Mallady is a six-foot-three-inch, 260-pound senior. Linebacker James Gleeson will return for his senior season as well. On offense, William Wright returns at quarterback. He will be joined in the backfield by running backs Joe Hingson, Wyatt Lybrook, Nick Morgan, and Drew Bomar. Wide receiver Zach Jackson is the team’s top wideout and is entering his sophomore year. On the line, offensive lineman Jakobe Harmon will be back in the trenches for Holy Innocents’ in 2021.

The Golden Bears have experience, size, and skill and will make a run in the playoffs in 2021.

REGION 8 - 1A PRIVATE

AUG

@ Calvary Day

AUG

SEPT

Christian @ Providence Academy (TN) Christian

SEPT

Holy Innocents’

SEPT Wesleyan

PRINCE AVE CHRISTIAN

OCT

Hebron Christian Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT The Wolverines lost a lot of good football players but bringing in a senior transfer quarterback will help the transition. Their offensive line is one of the best groups on the team and will need to open up big rushing lanes to help out their extremely inexperienced running backs. Their defense will likely be what this team leans on down the stretch, with some of their most experienced and dominant players coming from that side of the ball, especially along their front-seven. A lot of the Wolverines games were not very competitive last season, but this season expect more tight games, and they could lose more than they are used to, but do not count out this team from making another run at the state title.

KEY LOSSES The state champions for Class 1A Private had an amazing team last season, with some of the best athletes in both the region and the class. Unfortunately, many of their star players were seniors last year and played their final snaps with this team. Quarterback Brock Vandagriff (UGA) had a season to remember, with over 4,000 yards passing and over 60 total touchdowns for the Wolverines. Their 1,000-yard rusher from last season, Landon Owens, has also graduated and will play for the Citadel. These two players accounted for 560 of the Wolverines 667 total points on the season. These two will be difficult to replace. The Wolverines’ defense will also be without Andrew Ridings, Chas Scoggins, and Davis Ridings.

I expect this team to have a tough early season schedule and make the playoffs.

OCT

@ Athens Academy

OCT

George Walton Academy

OCT

NOV

Loganville Christian

@ Athens Christian

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of princeave.org

2020 STATS overall record 13

Wins

1 Losses

667

Points Scored Points Allowed

197

Head Coach: Greg Vandagriff

WHO’S BACK The Wolverines’ defense lost some key players, but they are bringing back some young and talented players on that side of the ball. Their second-leading tackler from last season, Luke Lanier, will be back for his senior year. Ethan Garner, who had seven sacks last season will be tasked with holding their front seven together. Josh Britt, who head coach Greg Vandagriff will look to use on both offense and defense, will play a crucial role at replacing some of the production they are losing from last season. Rockdale County transfer quarterback Zachary Hill will be the one to fill the shoes of Vandagriff but will have to do so without a lot of the talent from last year’s team.

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REGION 3 - A PRIVATE

SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN

AUG

@ Emanuel County Institute

AUG

Screven County

SEPT

@ Valwood

SEPT

@ John Milledge Academy

Written by:Travis Jaudon Photo courtesy of savannahchristian.repuschool.com

2020 STATS overall record 10

Wins 412

2 Losses Points Scored

SEPT

DeerfieldWindsor

SEPT

OCT

@ Mount de First Sales Academy Presbyterian

OCT

@ Calvary Day School

OCT Aquinas

NOV

@ Savannah Country Day

WHAT TO EXPECT If the Raiders can figure out a way to replace Robicheaux behind center, they should have plenty of firepower on offense to score enough points to aid what should be a dominant defense. Especially early in the campaign, expect Brown and Futch to join Jayden Hester as the heavy-lifters on offense while senior defensive end Caleb Womble could be a threat to eclipse the 10-sack plateau coming off the edge. SCPS could match its 2020 interception total of 13 and turn those defensive plays into offensive success.

Points Allowed

226

Head Coach: Baker Woodward

KEY LOSSES Offensively, SCPS loses three-year starter and first team All-Region 3-A Private quarterback Spencer Robicheaux (119-218, 2,045 yards, 25 touchdowns, and three interceptions passing in 2020). They also lose third-leading receiver from last year’s region championship squad, Jordan Hoffman (22 receptions, 349 yards, and three touchdowns). On the defensive side of the ball, the Raiders graduated a key leader in the secondary, Bradley Anderson (75 tackles, six tackles for loss).

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WHO’S BACK Returning for head coach Baker Woodward and company in 2021 is a plethora of playmaking options at receiver on offense and a few tackling machines on the defensive side. Senior George Futch is back after leading the club in receiving last year with 47 catches, 797 yards, and 12 touchdowns. Junior Ely Brown (77 carries, 531 yards, eight touchdowns, 29 receptions, 549 yards, and five touchdowns in 2020) is one of the best dual threats in the Savannah area as a runner and receiver. Peyton Cromwell (146 tackles in 2020), Ashton Dorsey (105), and David Bucey (98) lead the way defensively.

A playoff win could come if they manage to secure a home game in the first round.

REGION 3 - 1A PRIVATE

AUG

Bulloch Academy

AUG

@ Emanuel County Institute

SEPT

@ Beach

Metter

SEPT

Tattnall Square Academy

Written by: Travis Jaudon Photography courtesy of savannahnow.com

199

@ Stratford Academy

OCT

@ DeerfieldWindsor

OCT

@ Aquinas

OCT

NOV

Calvary Day

Savannah Christian

Kleinpeter has improved steadily since starting as a freshman. Expect the Hornets to compete with its three region counterparts in Calvary, Savannah Christian, and Aquinas in what should be a wide-open race for the Region 3-A Private title. Kleinpeter should be a frontrunner for the region’s Player of the Year entering the season.

overall record Wins

SEPT

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS 3

SAVANNAH COUNTRY DAY

Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

282

Head Coach: John Mohring

WHO’S BACK Star quarterback Barry Kleinpeter is back for his senior year, as is fellow senior wide receiver and defensive back Kenny Odom. Kleinpeter has thrown for over 4,000 yards (according to Maxpreps) in his career.

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KEY LOSSES

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Following a disappointing 2020 campaign in which his team finished 3-7, Jim Collis stepped down after two seasons as the head coach of the Hornets. Collis, who remained on as the school’s athletic director, Collis named his offensive coordinator, 28-year-old Tyler Ward, as the new SCDS head coach. Ward was replaced by John Mohring in late May after Ward unexpectedly departed in April. Country Day will need to replace All-Region receiver Erik Brown out wide moving into 2021.

Country Day hosts, and wins, a first-round state playoff game in 2021 and competes for its second region title since 2019 after not winning one previously since 1980.

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REGION 1 - 1A PRIVATE

STRATFORD ACADEMY

AUG

@ George Walton Academy

SEPT Westfield

SEPT

@ Mt. Paran Christian

SEPT

Savannah Country Day

OCT

@ Calvary Day

OCT

@ Mount de Strong Rock Tattnall Square Sales Academy Christian Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT The Eagles have lost a lot of experience on offense, but they have some All-Region talent returning to the backfield in 2021. However, expect the Eagles to suffer more losses because of all the All-Region talent that will not be returning to the team. Like so many other teams, Stratford will be entering into a rebuilding phase in 2021. Players who didn’t see a lot of action last year will have their numbers called this season and will need to make a lot of plays if the Eagles are going to be able to achieve the same kind of success as they did in 2020.

OCT

First Presbyterian

Wide receiver/safety Ben Jamison will be missed on both sides of the ball. Jamison was named the GHSA Iron Man Player of the Year in 2020 and served as a captain for the Eagles. Wide receiver/safety Waldon Davis, tight end Jack Miscall, Carter Nystrom, Stetson Hatcher, offensive lineman/defensive lineman Ben Baxley, and offensive lineman/defensive lineman Hunter Hogan have all graduated. Jamison, Davis, Miscall, Nystrom, Hatcher, Baxley, and Hogan all received GHSA Region 1A honors in 2020. Center Bond Almand has graduated as well, leaving a hole for the Eagles to fill on the offensive line.

The Eagles will win more games than they lose in 2021 but will struggle to make a real run in the playoffs if they are able to qualify for them.

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@ Deerfield -Windsor

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of Stratford Athletics via Twitter

2020 STATS overall record 8

Wins 311

3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

216

KEY LOSSES

NOV

Head Coach: Mark Farriba

WHO’S BACK Wide receiver Keondre Glover is back to contribute to the Eagles’ offense in 2021. As a sophomore, Glover made many plays and is looking to do even more with the ball in his hands this time around. All-Region running back Shaun Wilmore is returning to the Eagles’ backfield. He is another player who contributed a lot on offense as a sophomore and is now headed into his junior season. Offensive lineman Eli Miscall will be back in the trenches for the Eagles. On defense, the Eagles have 6-foot, 215-pound Tyler Brown returning at defensive end.

REGION 5 - 1A PRIVATE

AUG

Mt. Pisgah Christian

@ Decatur

SEPT

Douglass (Atlanta)

@ Prince Ave Christian

Written by: Zach Edmondson Photography courtesy of wesleyanschool.org

overall record 11

3 Losses

326

Points Scored Points Allowed

251

Loganville Christian

OCT

@ Athens Academy

OCT

Hebron Christian @ Providence Academy Christian

OCT

Holy Innocents’

NOV

@ Mount Vernon

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

WESLEYAN

Head Coach: Franklin Pridgen

WHO’S BACK There are a handful of key players returning for the Wolves in 2020. Most of them play both ways. Wide receiver/defensive back Drew Ball will be a senior. Ball recorded 73 total tackles in 2020. Defensive back/running back Will Tucker will be a Junior. Tucker recorded 61 total tackles in 2020. Offensive lineman/defensive lineman Michael Soukup will be a senior. Joining Soukup in the trenches will be defensive lineman Jaydin Brown, who will be a senior. Brown recorded 34 total tackles in 2020. Linebacker Matthew Brown will be a senior. Brown recorded 41 total tackles, including three tackles for loss in 2020.

Head coach Franklin Pridgen is “pretty positive” regarding his expectations for the 2021 season. “I’m excited [for the football season] to get back to normal,” he said. As most football fans know, COVID-19 had an impact on high school football, as it caused many schools to cancel games, and teams had to follow all kinds of safety protocols. It looks like things will be normal again in 2021, and the Wolves are ready. “We have a tough schedule ahead of us,” Pridgen said. “But we’re in better shape than a lot of people realize.” If anyone thinks the Wolves are expecting to have an underwhelming season because of the seniors they lost, Coach Pridgen would advise you to think otherwise.

KEY LOSSES The Wolves had four players in the class of 2021 sign with college football programs. Quarterback Ryan Rose committed to play football at the University of Rochester. Rose played in all 14 games last season, and he threw for 2,150 yards and 13 touchdowns. Wide receiver Wyatt Hodges committed to play football at Presbyterian College. Hodges caught 51 passes for 701 yards in 2020. Offensive lineman Tanner Bivins committed to play football at Army. Defensive end Vance Nicklaus committed to play football at Florida State. The Rose-Hodges quarterback/wide receiver duo will be severely missed by the Wolves’ offense as they head into the new season.

Wesleyan will win a lot and make a run in the playoffs because of their defense. They just need to fill some holes on offense.

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GISA 3A

FREDERICA ACADEMY

AUG

SEPT

@ Calvary Day

Valwood

SEPT

@ Brantley County

Tiftarea

Written by: Zach M. Edmondson Photography by: Brandon Pham

@ Long County

OCT

Bulloch Academy

OCT

@ St. Andrew’s

OCT Pinewood

NOV

Trinity Christian

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS overall record 9

Wins

SEPT

335

Losses

Points Scored

The Knights lost a lot of experience in the 16 seniors they had last season. Thankfully, their offense was led mainly by younger players who will be returning in 2021. The Knights will be able to put a lot of points on the board, but the problem is that they will be giving up a lot of points on defense. Losing the entire defensive line is going to hurt the Knights as they enter a rebuilding phase as a team. Their record is going to suffer a little in 2021, but the offense, led by Triplett’s rushing abilities, is going to be able to pull out some wins in close games.

Points Allowed

193

Head Coach: Brandon Derrick

KEY LOSSES The Knights lost 16 seniors, including their entire defensive line, four offensive linemen, two defensive backs, and three linebackers. Will Thompson was an anchor on the defensive line who will be missed. Besides him, the Knights are losing two All-State linebackers in Josh Meadows and Joshua Elliot. Clearly, the defense will have to be rebuilt and will be a sore spot for the Knights in 2021, unless some new starters show up in a big way.

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WHO’S BACK Offensively, the Knights are returning some weapons who were key to their success in 2020. Leading the offense will be sophomore MaxPreps All-American running back Jordan Triplett. Triplett delivered an astounding performance in 2020 with 1,707 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. Joining Triplett in the backfield once again is quarterback Thomas Veal, and he will have wide receivers Bryce Reilly and Chase Schueneman coming back to throw to. Veal threw for nearly 1,000 yards and nine touchdowns last season. Offensive lineman Sam Norris will be back in the trenches once again to help Triplett and Veal deliver on offense and put points on the board in 2021.

The Knights will lose a few more games in 2021 but will make it to the first round of playoffs, if not further because of a strong offense.

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GISA 3A

AUG

@ Brentwood

SEPT

Savannah Christian

Pinewood

SEPT

@ Bulloch

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography courtesy of bbnews.today

overall record 11

477

Gatewood

OCT

@ Valwood

OCT

Community Christian

OCT

Bethlehem Christian

OCT

@ Creekside Christian

NOV Westfield

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

JOHN MILLEDGE ACADEMY

Points Scored

This team is an interesting one to look at, after graduating so many key players from last season, and now having to replace those guys with very young talent, this team may struggle out of the gate. For the last three seasons, the Trojans have won two state championships and have only lost a single game, but this team looks to be on the verge of a serious rebuild. With how much better this team has been over the past several seasons, look for head coach J.T. Wall to get his players in a position to win, but he will have to get his young players up to speed fast.

Points Allowed

Head Coach: J.T. Wall

WHO’S BACK The Trojans last season had a huge senior class, graduating over 20 players, which means there are not many starters from last year that will be on the roster. Sophomore backs Jeremiah Hill and Javian Butts will likely get the bulk of the carries next season. They had decent production last year behind multiple seniors in the backfield. One player that will look familiar next season is Marcus Prestwood, who was the Trojans leading receiver, and will bring much needed experience to this young offense.

KEY LOSSES The Trojans lost a lot of talent from their state championship-winning season a year ago. Quarterback Grayson Hopkins, who accounted for 24 touchdowns last season, including a 230-yard and two-touchdown performance in the state title game will not return. Running back Patrick McDonel will also be absent from the roster after graduating, and his 13 touchdowns last season will surely be missed. Along with McDonel, fellow senior running back, Kelvin Jackson also graduated. The Trojans’ powerful offense will have to look elsewhere to replace the production from these seniors, who have helped this team lose only one game in the last three seasons.

Even Though they lost a lot of key players, expect this team to do well and make the playoffs.

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GISA 3A

SOUTHLAND ACADEMY

AUG

SEPT

Terrell Academy

@ Deerfield -Windsor

SEPT

@ Pinewood Christian

Westfield

Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of americustimesrecorder.com

2020 STATS overall record Wins

165

Losses Points Scored

224

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Rod Murray

WHAT TO EXPECT This offseason has been a good one for Murray and his Raiders, as they’ve been doing a good bit of their weight and conditioning outside this spring and summer. “We’ve had a great offseason,” Murray said. “Our weight room is undergoing a major renovation, so we’ve had to go back to the basics of flipping tires and pushing sleds in this South Georgia heat and humidity, and that’s really done a lot for our conditioning.” This season, the Raiders will rely on their trademark approach to football: Ball control with an effective running game. Murray’s Raiders teams have always used their run game to control the clock and keep opposing offenses off the field. One factor that will help that area is Southland Academy’s depth on the offensive line, so look for the Raiders to return to that smash mouth style of offense this season.

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OCT

Southwest Georgia

OCT Gatewood

OCT

@ Edmund Burke

OCT

@ Valwood

OCT

@ Tiftarea Academy

NOV Brookwood

WHO’S BACK

Returning to lead Southland Academy this season will be a group of three seniors and a junior. Senior defensive tackle John Saye is an All-Region performer whose dominating presence on the Raiders defense will be welcomed this season. He had four sacks included in 49 tackles last season, plus two fumble recoveries. Fellow All-Region selection Hudson Collins returns as a multi-purpose athlete for the Raiders. He had a prosperous 2020 season, rushing for 398 yards on just 37 carries with six touchdowns. Collins caught six passes for 37 yards, had 25 tackles with a fumble recovery on defense, and added 60 return yards as a punt returner. The third senior returning is Caleb Law. The dependable kicker has done a good job so far in his Raiders’ career, converting 27 of 30 point after attempts and successfully making 10 of 14 FG attempts, including a long of 45 yards. Junior Chase Ledger is also back in 2021 to help Southland Academy on defense and special teams. He has 88 tackles over the last two seasons from his defensive back position, and as the Raiders’ punter, he averages 35.3 yards per punt. He holds the Southland Academy all-time record for longest punt in school history with a 75-yarder.

KEY LOSSES

Head coach Rod Murray didn’t hesitate when pointing out the players that have graduated and will be missed. “We lost some good ones,” he said. That includes QB, DB, and kick returner Nathan Duke. The former Raider was active all over the field during his Southland career, throwing for 402 yards with an average of 14 yards per completion and running for 90 yards and three touchdowns. Duke ended up with 146 all-purpose yards receiving and returning kicks and punts. Defensively, Duke ended up with 101 tackles and three interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Running back and linebacker Owen Exley’s contributions will be missed. He ends his Raiders career with 779 yards rushing on 160 carries and six touchdowns. Defensively, he ended up with 79 tackles, including a sack, and he had an interception. Additionally, Exley caused two fumbles, recovering one of them. As a kick returner, he had 218 return yards. Another multi-purpose player whose contributions will be missed is James Griffin, who had 880 all-purpose yards, 142 tackles, and four touchdowns.

Look for a bounce back season for Southland Academy this year as Murray gets his team back to their winning ways.

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PROUD SUPPORTERS OF LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES

FCA Summer 2021 We had a great summer in 2021 with three banquets, kids going to camps and hiring a new Area Representative. Our Annual Spring Fundraising Banquet was held on June 5th with guest speaker Benjamin Watson. He brought an amazing message to a large crowd that we were so thankful to have join us. We had our Berrien and Cook County Banquets back-to-back on June 25th and 26th with Sid Bream speaking at both. These two banquets were also very enjoyable and we heard a great message from Sid. We plan to hold our 2022 banquets earlier in the

year with our Valdosta Banquet being in February, Berrien is normally in March and Cook will take place in April. We were so excited to be able to send kids to camp this summer. We had 4 teams attend softball camp, 1 person attended a golf camp, 1 team attended basketball camp and 1 team went to cheer camp. We also had 33 kids from Valwood go on a canoe trip put on by FCA Outdoors. We are in the process of hiring a new Area Representative to work in the seven counties that Southeast Georgia FCA covers. Skylar Reed will be joining our team

very soon. He is very energetic and ready to get started being a part of the great things that FCA does and stands for in the community. If you are interested in donating to FCA or volunteering, please give us a call at 229-2451717. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24.

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GISA 3A

AUG

Community Christian

SEPT

Bulloch Academy

SEPT

@ Frederica Academy

SEPT

@ Charlton County

SEPT

@ Pinewood

TIFTAREA ACADEMY

OCT

Trinity Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT After finishing with an 8-4 record and enjoying one of their finest seasons in program history two seasons ago, the Panthers came back down to earth last season with a 6-5 finish. Soliday thinks that this team has what it takes to make a run. “We’ve got some really good players returning this season,” Soliday said. That should make Panthers fans feel pretty good, as Soliday has seen it all as a successful coach in both GHSA and GISA over his long career, so he knows a good team when he sees it.

OCT

@ Terrell Academy

OCT

NOV

Brookwood

Southland

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

2020 STATS overall record 6

Wins

271

KEY LOSSES

Look for Tiftarea to return to eight wins and make another solid run in the playoffs.

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

275

Head coach Eric Soliday must find a way to replace the team’s leading receiver from last year in Jayk Sailer. The departing Panther athlete leaves with 1,295 career receiving yards and 16 touchdowns during his time at Tiftarea. But Sailer was also productive at defensive back and as the team’s kicker. Sailer was perfect on PAT’s last season, making 15 out of 15, and was almost perfect on his FG attempts. He finished the year hitting 4 out of 5 attempts. Also gone is Brock Hammond, who played linebacker, full back, receiver, and tight end. Starting center and defensive end Ben Matt has also graduated.

@ Valwood

Head Coach: Eric Soliday

WHO’S BACK Returning for the Panthers will be senior quarterback Dylan Harbort, who was the team’s starting quarterback last season after switching from receiver. He’ll be joined by several other returning seniors including full back/tight end/linebacker Mason Tyler, wide receiver/strong safety Cason Peavy, and linemen Wesley Malone and Pate McMillan. Junior running back/safety John Austin Lee will be back, as will running back Kameron Brown. On defense, the starting corners from last year will return in senior Dylan Seagraves and junior John O’ Quinn. Junior linebacker Matthew Malone returns as well.

Where Fords and Lincolns Cost Less ITG Next | 247

GISA 3A

VALWOOD

AUG

@ Georgia Christian

AUG

SEPT

Frederica Academy

Savannah Christian

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Micki K Photography

overall record 3

241

Losses Points Scored

347

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Justin Henderson

WHAT TO EXPECT You can expect Valwood to be better than they were last year. Despite their record, the Valiants came within a last second field goal of making the playoffs last year. They have one of the most experienced offensive lines returning in GISA which will give them the ability to run the ball and protect the QB long enough to find the open receivers. Henderson says the team has been as dedicated to the weight room this offseason as any group he’s ever been around at Valwood. The schedule will be tough, however. If Valwood can get a quick start out of the gate, they should stay in the mix down the rest of the way.

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Pinewood Christian

SEPT

North Florida Christian (FL)

OCT

John Milledge Academy

OCT

Southwest Georgia Academy

OCT

Southland Academy

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

Four of the five starting linemen from last season will be back this year. That group includes sophomores Nate Young and Conner Hutto. Joining them will be junior Anthony Brown and senior JD Peterman. The team’s leading tackler from a year ago, senior linebacker Demetris Rosier, is back. Others coming back this season will be junior linebacker Worth Kimbro, and a couple of other seniors. They are senior defensive back/running back Chris Manwell and slot receiver/outside linebacker Sam Clements. Versatile athlete Dru Womack is returning. He is a receiver but can play just about anywhere. According to Henderson, Womack was the team’s second leading receiver last season, but also served as the backup quarterback.

KEY LOSSES The Valiants and head coach Justin Henderson will lose one of the top tight ends around in Harrison Hamsley. The departing standout had 51 catches and six touchdowns in his senior season last year and will now head to play at Georgia Southern. The man throwing him those passes, quarterback Pate Hogan, has also graduated. He will attend West Georgia. Running back/middle linebacker Bay Moorman and offensive/defensive lineman Will Vickers will be walking away after successful Valwood careers. It’s not every day that a team loses two kickers, but that’s exactly the predicament that the Valiants find themselves in heading into the upcoming season. Gatlin Kimbro and Brock Blais, who each took turns kicking last season, are both moving out of the area, and that has forced Henderson to start from scratch with the kicking situation. “We go from having two kickers to having none,” says Henderson. He says that senior Hal Burns may step into the role of kicker.

You can’t keep a good team down. I predict Valwood has a great season and makes a nice run in the playoffs.

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3A GISA

AUG

SEPT

@ Trinity Christian

@ Stratford

SEPT

@ Baconton Charter

@ Southland

OCT

Terrell Academy

WESTFIELD

OCT

@ Briarwood

Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Madison Tucker

overall record Wins

325 268

Gatewood

OCT

@ Creekside Christian

OCT

Bethlehem Christian

NOV

John Milledge

WHO’S BACK

2020 STATS 7

OCT

Losses

Points Scored Points Allowed

Head Coach: Rob Fitzpatrick

WHAT TO EXPECT The Hornets boast one of the most experienced staffs in high school football, with longtime Northside Warner Robins head coach Kevin Kinsler overseeing the defense for Fitzpatrick, and Robinson coming over from Perry, where he served in the same role for the Panthers. There may be a move towards a more wide-open style of offense this season with the addition of Robinson, according to Fitzpatrick. “We like the athletes we have, and think we have the right personnel to run a more wide-open style of offense,” said the head coach. Fitzpatrick also likes the big guys, and points to Luke White as one to watch on the line this year. “We have some really good linemen returning this season,” Fitzpatrick said. He also says the Greer brothers are some “hard working dudes”. “Those two guys are both seniors, and really set the example for how good football players should work,” he said.

Returning to help the Hornets this season will be several key components from last year’s squad, including a couple of senior linemen: Cole Miller, who will return on the defensive line, and Seth Andrews, who returns on the offensive line. Senior Porter Faulk will be return to the Hornets offensive backfield, while junior Coleman Williams returns to his linebacker spot on the defense. The quarterback position is going to be an interesting storyline to follow heading into this season, and that’s not a bad thing. Along with returning junior Gavin Vining, there will be several other candidates who will be competing for playing time at the signal caller spot for new offensive coordinator Greg Robinson: Hunter Kirkley, Connor Avery, and Bryant Greer. “They all have a shot at playing some at QB this year,” Fitzpatrick said. Greer will also see time at linebacker. His twin brother, Brady Greer, will play as linebacker this season.

KEY LOSSES Westfield will miss several playmakers that head coach Rob Fitzpatrick says were truly keys to the Hornets’ success. The group of graduates include tight end/defensive end JB Bearden, who contributed on both sides of the field for the Hornets. As a tight end, he averaged 21.5 yards per catch, while registering 54 tackles on defense from his end position. Another player that will be missed this season will be running back/defensive back Walker Young, who has moved on. He leaves after rushing for over 300 yards and four touchdowns last season. That came on 52 carries, giving the former Hornet an average of 6 yards per carry. Young also added 187 return yards on special teams. From his defensive back spot, he snatched an interception and had two fumble recoveries. Cal Langston is another Westfield player that has graduated, and his defensive prowess is going to be missed. He had 66 tackles, a sack, caused a fumble, and had five fumble recoveries. These are stellar careers for the three departing seniors.

Fitzpatrick is a motivator, and with the talented staff he has, expect Westfield to compete for the top spot in GISA AAA this season.

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WESTWOOD

AUG

@ Baker County

SEPT

@ Southern Prep (AL)

GISA 2A 8-MAN

SEPT Dominion

SEPT

@ Westminster (Augusta)

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography by: Eric Vinson

overall record 9

408

2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed

162

Head Coach: Earl Ford

WHO’S BACK Young running back Weston Fears will be returning, looking to help his team both on offense and defense. Caden Godwin, the team’s top targeted wide receiver, will also be returning for his senior campaign this season. Look for him to have another productive year. Perhaps the most important piece to this team is quarterback DJ Palmer, whose mobile ability is a big reason for his team’s success last year. This will be his senior season and with many other seniors around him, look for him to put this team on his back and take them to another playoff berth and possibly another state title.

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Twiggs

OCT

Monsignor Donovan

OCT

Grace Academy

OCT

@ Windsor Academy

OCT

@ Solid Rock

OCT

Crisp Academy

WHAT TO EXPECT

2020 STATS

Wins

SEPT

The Wildcats made one of the best one year turn-arounds in any classification, going from a team that struggled through a one win season while losing 10 games, to a team that won 9 games in 2020, and finished the season as the GISA 8-Man State Champion. Now, looking ahead to this season, This team has a very good senior quarterback in DJ Palmer that head coach Earl Ford says can help the Wildcats have another great season. “DJ is a tall kid who has good command of the offense,” said Ford. Expect more of the same this year with some players getting a lot of experience under their belt last season . . . that will make them even better going into this year. If you watch this team play, you will likely hear the connection from Palmer to Godwin a lot this season. This duo is one of the best in their region and should have another great year. After not having many successful seasons in recent years, Westwood now has that winning feeling and are unlikely to let that go, even with key starters on the offensive line from last season no longer being on the team.

KEY LOSSES The Wildcats offense lost all three starting offensive linemen from last season: Luke Hilliard, Maston Collins, and Bryant Collins. The veteran group from last year was responsible for turning this program around, opening big rushing lanes for their mobile quarterback. Unfortunately, their production will be missed now that they have taken their last snaps for Westwood. Big tight end Fletcher Sheffield also played his last snaps for the Wildcats last season and they will need to find someone to replace him, as he was one of the team’s top targets last year. This team did not lose many players, but with only eight men on offense and defense in this league, losing any players can hurt your season.

Could there be another state title in 2021? Earl Ford has his team believing.

Good Luck Teams!

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GISA 1A

GEORGIA CHRISTIAN

AUG Valwood

AUG

Calvary Christian

SEPT

Skipstone Academy

SEPT

@ Terrell Academy

SEPT

@ Pataula Charter

Moving into a new classification brings with it many possibilities for this team, but they may struggle out of the gate. They will need to lean on their veteran offensive line and senior quarterback to have a big year if they want to make a run in the playoffs. They are going into their third year of rebuilding their football program and this young team will need to continue to progress in order to have success this season. The Generals have focused on adding strength this offseason to compete in this new classification. “We have really focused on strength and conditioning this summer,” coach Knapp said. “We are looking a lot stronger heading into this season.”

KEY LOSSES The Generals had a large group of seniors (11 total) graduate following last season, and moving into a new classification will be difficult without their experience. Among those 11 players are defensive linemen Christian Johnson, wide receiver Kelby Turner, and wide receiver Kyler Scaff. Their production on the field will be missed and head coach Chuck Knapp—along with his coaching staff— will have to find a way to replace them on the field. The Generals’ skill positions on both offense and defense were the hardest hit by the losses from those graduating, while many of their offense and defensive linemen will be returning.

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OCT

@ Griffin Christian

WHAT TO EXPECT

Expect the Generals to continue to show improvement under Coach Knapp in 2021.

OCT

Hancock Academy

OCT

@ Fullington Academy

NOV

Central Christian

Written by: Jacob Johnson Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

2020 STATS overall record Wins

Losses Points Scored

246

Points Allowed

Head Coach: Chuck Knapp

WHO’S BACK The Generals’ entire offensive line will be returning this upcoming season. Senior Christian Powell will lead the offensive line and is expected to have a big year. Also returning is quarterback Mason Finney for his senior campaign. Finney has a lot of size and great arm talent. Defensive back and wide receiver Hendrix Grimes, who led the team in both interceptions and receiving touchdowns last season, will be coming back for his senior season as well. Following an All-State caliber season, expect big things for him this year. On defense, look for Austin Knapp to be in the other teams backfield a lot. Seth Copeland missed most of last season due to injury; also expect him to have a big year.

ITG Next | 255

Coaching Changes Written by: Jon Nelson

So, your favorite team is getting ready for the 2021 season... True to form, there were a fair amount of coaching changes in the off-season. It usually goes in the 20-percent range from year-to-year in the state but some of the names that are in charge are in some interesting places. Let’s start with Camden County. But with Jeff Herron’s return to the sidelines in Kingsland and Region 1-7A, does it count as a “new coach?” It does count that, with Herron’s pedigree, the Double-Blue are looking to a return to postseason glory with a returning coach and philosophy. In Valdosta, which had one of the most tumultuous off-seasons in recent memory, acting coach Shelton Felton was given the job in one of the toughest environ256 | itgnext.com

ments around. We all know that the Wildcats expectations are both internal and external, and it will be an interesting case study. Speaking of South Georgia, Tift has a new coach. And he gets to see what life is like here. Noel Dean, a Hall of Famer in Michigan, got a karmic phone call from Tift Superintendent Adam Hathaway. “I went to make a phone call and Adam Hathaway was on the phone,” he said. “So, I was picking it up to call Tift. And right before I hit any numbers, he was on the phone calling me. A connection was made. It was destiny,” Dean told the Tifton Gazette back in January. Dean believes in Tifton, Tift County and hard work. Three things we all know about... Miguel Patrick was the head coach at suburban Atlanta power-

house Cedar Grove. He exits the Saints program and is now at Crisp — a program that expects to be in the last game of the year at Georgia State. Here’s a couple more for you to keep an eye on this year... John Ford moves from being an assistant at Bleckley County to Effingham County just west of Savannah. Joey King returns to Carrollton from the college ranks, and everyone knows his pedigree from Cartersville. Dondrial Pinkins returns home to his alma mater, Mitchell County, after six years at Pelham in Single-A. Bryan Lamar built a perennial power at Tucker and he moves to South Gwinnett. And a third opening in DeKalb County comes from the retirement of Stephenson’s only head coach, Ron Gartrell. Another retirement

comes at Appling County. Rick Tomberlin came home to Baxley and has been building the Pirates into a team to pay attention to come the postseason. Jordan Mullis moves from his assistant head coach/defensive coordinator position to assume the head coaching job in 2021. See where are we going here...??? There might be a test later on... But that’s the fun part of this. We get to see our friends again. They might be in different places and have different challenges, but we all get to share in the optimism of a new season as new coaches accept those challenges in 2021. Play it safe, everyone... I’ll see you soon!

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