Presented by:
THE TRADITION CONTINUES
GEORGIA
AUG/SEPT 2020
PRESEASON ITG Next | 1
• 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
1-800-331-2910 • 706-324-6661 2 | itgnext.com
www.hughston.com
What's Next?
ITG Next “Football is like life. It requires perseverance, self-denial, hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and respect for authority.” –Vince Lombardi ITG Next | 3
Chase Busby, St. Simons Island, Ga.
Care that’s a world apart, but just down the road. Last year, more than 800 children from South Georgia made a very important trip. Some were just a few days old; others were kindergartners or teens. But they all received top-ranked care from one of the best children’s hospitals in America: Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Care that’s a world apart, but just down the road. more 4 Learn | itgnext.com
at wolfsonchildrens.com
m o c . o t u A e c n i www.Pr
Prince of Albany 2701 Ledo Road
ALBANY (229) 432-6271
Prince Automotive 1410 Hwy 82 W.
Prince Automovite 4550 N.Valdosta Rd
TIFTON
VALDOSTA
(229) 382-2525
(229) 242-3311ITG Next | 5
AAAAAAA
AAAAAA
AAAAA
AAAA
14
40
72
92
Houston Co. Bears 43
Coffee Trojans 74
Bainbridge Bearcats 95
Lee Co. Trojans 46
Veterans Warhawks 76
Cario Syrupmakers 96
Northside (WR) Eagles 51
Ware Co. Gators 81
Thomas Co. Central Yellow Jackets 99
Tift Co. Blue Devils 24
Valdosta Wildcats 52
Warner Robins Demons 82
Westover Patriots 100
McEachern Indians 27
Bradwell Institute Tigers 54
Wayne Co. Yellow Jackets 83
Perry Panthers 101
Harrison Hoyas 28
Brunswick Pirates 55
Starr’s Mill Panthers 84
LaGrange Grangers 102
Hillgrove Hawks 29
Glynn Academy Red Terrors 56
Creekside Seminoles 85
Troup Tigers 103
Marietta Blue Devils 30
Richmond Hill Wildcats 58
Woodward Academy War Eagles 86
Benedictine Cadets 104
Grayson Rams 31
Statesboro Blue Devils 59
Ola Mustangs 87
West Laurens Raiders 105
Parkview Panthers 33
Lakeside (Evans) Panthers 60
Blessed Trinity Titans 88
Mays Raiders 106
Milton Eagles 34
Westlake Lions 61
Calhoun Yellow Jackets 89
Cedar Shoals Jaguars 107
Roswell Hornets 35
Carrollton Trojans 62
Cartersville Purple Hurricanes 91
Flowery Branch Falcons 108
Denmark Danes 36
Dalton Catamounts 64
Archer Tigers 37
Rome Wolves 65
Mill Creek Hawks 38
South Paulding Spartans 66
North Gwinnett Bulldogs 39
Allatoona Buccaneers 67
Camden Co. Wildcats 16 Colquitt Co. Packers 19 Lowndes Vikings 23
Buford Wolves 69 Dacula Falcons 70 6 | itgnext.com
Madison Co. Red Raiders 109
The information, including game schedules, in this preview is accurate at the time of printing.
AAA
AA
110
124
142
160
Pierce Co. Bears 112
Berrien Rebels 127
Mitchell Co. Eagles 145
Deerfield-Windsor Knights 163
Americus-Sumter Panthers 113
Cook Hornets 128
Pelham Hornets 146
Crisp Co. Cougars 115
Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane 131
Brooks Co. Trojans 148
Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Chargers 164
Thomson Bulldogs 118
Thomasville Bulldogs 132
Charlton Co. Indians 150
Cedar Grove Saints 119
Worth Co. Rams 135
Clinch Co. Panthers 151
Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans 120
Jeff Davis Yellow Jackets 136
Irwin Co. Indians 152
Sandy Creek Fighting Patriots 121
Callaway Cavaliers 139
Lanier Co. Bulldogs 153
Douglass Astros 122
Rabun Co. Wildcats 140
Turner Co. Rebels 154
Hart County Bulldogs 123
Union Co. Panthers 141
Dublin Fighting Irish 156
GISA Frederica Knights 172 Tiftarea Panthers 173 Valwood Valiants 175 Westwood Wildcats 176 John Milledge Trojans 179
Football Extras Has the South Taken Over
Georgia Christian Generals 181
A Private
Calvary Day Cavaliers 166 Savannah Christian Raiders 167 Savannah Country Day Hornets 168 Wesleyan Wolves 169 Athens Academy Spartans 170 Prince Avenue Christian Wolverines 171
Wilcox County Patriots 157
Player Profiles
71
Jacurri Brown Lowndes 20
Phil Mafah Grayson 90
5 Sleepers to Watch in 2020 80
Carlos Del Rio Grayson 35
Sirad Bryant Crisp County 116
5 Games to Watch in Georgia 137
Micah Morris Camden County 49
Hugh Laughlin Athens Academy 138
Chaz Chambliss Carrollton 68
Gamal Wallace Colquitt County 159
College Football for Good?
Coaching & COVID-19 182
GICAA
A Public
Aries Mcrae Coffee 78 ITG Next | 7
Outfitting Teams Since 1997
WE ARE YOUR TEAM SPORTS EXPERTS
8 | itgnext.com
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
ITG Next | 9
Our Team Contributors Publisher Mark Dykes Editor Kyle Grondin Graphics Mandy Douthit Cover Photography Eric Vinson Dreaming Wild Photography Player Profile Photography Eric Vinson Dreaming Wild Photography
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
Kyle Grondin
Phil Jones
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.
Kyle is a senior at Valdosta State University working toward a Bachelor of Arts in English with a track in journalism. He transferred to Valdosta with his wife from UCF and hopes to become a world class sports journalist. Most days, Kyle is taking his dog Stella for walks or playing sports at the local gym. Kyle is a bigtime UCF Knight fan, so you know he’s willing to claim himself the national champion of everything with little evidence supporting his cause.
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.
Tyrah Walker
Max Steel
Brandon Pham
Broadcaster
Videographer
Videographer
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.
Originally from Decatur, Georgia, Max attended Valdosta State University and graduated with a degree in mass media. A former college cross country runner, Max now works at ITG Next as a videographer and currently resides in Thomasville, Georgia. When not at ITG Next, Max enjoys working out and creating short films.
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.
Feature Writers Kyle Grondin Phil Jones 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 2020 Dykes Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.
10 | itgnext.com
Sports Editor
Broadcaster/Writer
Contributing Photographer 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.
Tell us what you thought about the June/July issue of ITG Next! info@itgnext.com
Want to Join the Intern Team? Apply online at itgnext.com
Graphic Design Social Media Journalism
Photography Videography Marketing
@ITGNext
Friday Night Lights T-Shirt
Go to
Train Insane T-Shirt
If you’re in search of great stories, we have the answer.
itgnext.com
features apparel, stories from the magazine, and much more all at your finger tips. There is even a spot to submit your story ideas to us.
Classic T-Shirt
itgnext.com to Get In the Game today!
BE IN THE GAME
Eric Vinson
ITG Next | 11
ITG Next | 13
Written by: Kyle Grondin
PASSING LEADERS
RUSHING LEADERS AJ Swann Cherokee 2,399 YDS
Sam Horn Collins Hill 2,326 YDS
Brady Meitz North Forsyth 2,126 YDS
Carlos Del Rio Grayson 1,796 YDS
Cody Brown Parkview 1,676 YDS
Jacurri Brown Lowndes 1,561 YDS
Jamie Felix Camden Co. 1,124 YDS
Keith Adams Jr. Cherokee 1,115 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH Colquitt Co. @ Marietta
Grayson @ Parkview
Camden Co. @ Lowndes
Two of the giants of the classification, Colquitt County has been one of the premier programs in the state for the last decade, while Marietta opens the season of its title defense after winning the 2019 state championship. Both of these teams will be looking to capture the momentum early in the season in this game.
Debatably the two most talented teams in the classification, Parkview and Grayson play in a key regional matchup that could decide the champion of this region. Grayson has one of the most impressive rosters in the state, while Parkview has star running back Cody Brown and a talented defense. This could be the best game of the regular season.
Keep an eye on Camden County. With Jamie Felix, Shaun Hardy, and Micah Morris, this team is as talented as it gets in the state of Georgia. It won’t be easy for Lowndes to walk into a region title. The Vikings are coming off a terrific season, and with coach DuBose, there’s the promise of an explosive offense. These two play the last week of the season to give a great sendoff into the playoffs.
14 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES 2020 will see a lot of changes, including a team at the top with a ton of new talent. Grayson enters the season as the favorite thanks to some high profile transfers in quarterback Carlos Del Rio and wide receiver Daejon Reynolds. They’ll be battling the state runner up from last season in Lowndes High School, who welcomes a new coach in Jamey DuBose from Alabama. Both of these teams are loaded, and a potential playoff game between the two should produce some fireworks.
TACKLE LEADERS
RECEIVING LEADERS
Jalen Garner Norcross 200 TKS
Braesen Parker Cherokee 168 TKS
Zakye Barker Norcross 152 TKS
Grady Bryant Grayson 136 TKS
Daejon Reynolds Grayson 1,534 YDs
Jared Brown Parkview 969 YDs
Lemeke Brockington Colquitt County 923 YDs
Travis Hunter Collins Hill 919 YDs
TOP 10 RANKINGS 7A
1
2 Grayson
6
3 Parkview
Lowndes
Marietta
Camden Co.
9
8
7 McEachern
4
Harrison
North Gwinnett
5 Colquitt Co.
10 Collins Hill
ITG Next | 15
4
SEPT Columbia
11
SEPT
Glynn Academy
18
SEPT
@ Jean Ribault (FL)
25
SEPT Marietta
2
OCT
@ Oakleaf (FL)
9
OCT Coffee
16
30
OCT
OCT
@ Warner Robins
@ Colquitt County
6
NOV
Tift County
13
NOV
@ Lowndes
WHAT TO EXPECT Is there a new contender in town in Region 1? The Camden County Wildcats look primed to take on the likes of Lowndes and Colquitt County in 2020 after a solid 2019 season. They lost three games all season, which were the Packers, state runners-up the Vikings, and state champion Marietta. The Wildcats averaged 34.5 points per game, and they’re coming back with the best running game in the region. They should put up a lot of points and will be a contender once again. But they have a difficult schedule, with games against the three teams they lost to last season, along with Columbia, Oakleaf, Coffee, and Warner Robins.
Head Coach: Bob Sphire
WHO’S BACK The best running back in Region 1, Jamie Felix, is a two-sport standout. While he gathers offers from around the country, he’ll need to be a 1,000-yard rusher this season for Camden County to have success. Along with Felix, wide receiver Shawn Hardy finished with 562 yards and seven touchdowns last season. He’ll need to cement himself as the top option for Josh Brown, who takes over as the full-time starter after playing some for Logan Watson, who was out injured. They should lead a high-octane offense.
The Wildcats lose their entire secondary and will need to find players to take their place in the back of the defense. Of their 10 interceptions last season, nine of them were from seniors. Linebacker Desmond Fogle was also the leading tackler for Camden County, and there will be pieces that they need to replace in 2020. Logan Watson was a solid quarterback for Camden County, but he has graduated as well.
7-3. Camden County will compete with Lowndes for a region title this season. 2019 STATS
REGION 1 -7A
CAMDEN COUNTY
KEY LOSSES
16 | itgnext.com
overall record 8
Wins 345 259 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson
3
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Breaking your humerus isn’t funny. { We fix broken bones. }
Breaking your arm is no laughing matter. But when it happens, we’ll get you up and laughing again – fast.
912-417-5423 I sghs.org/summit
ITG Next | 17
LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR, STATE FARM IS THERE Sharon DeMott 805 S Main Street Moultrie, GA 31768-5434 229-985-6262 www.sharondemott.com Office Hours (EST): Mon-Fri 8:30am to 5:00pm After Hours by Appointment
Local. Dependable. Serving you.
Moultrie
229-985-3620
Tifton
229-386-2278
colquittemc.com
Valdosta
229-244-6893
Adel
229-896-4591
Nashville
229-686-7431
Quitman
229-263-7588
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins
3
426
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
185 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Milla Photography
4
SEPT
@ Marietta
11
SEPT Westlake
18
SEPT
Cedar Grove
25
SEPT Valdosta
2
OCT
Heritage (Conyers)
9
OCT
@ Northside (Warner Robins)
23
OCT Alcovy
30
OCT
Camden County
Head Coach: Justin Rogers
6
13
NOV
NOV
@ Tift County
Lowndes
WHO’S BACK With a lot of talent gone, the Packers have put a lot of weight on Lemeke Brockington, who is currently committed to Minnesota. He is one of the top receivers in the state and had 923 yards and 13 touchdowns in his junior campaign. He will have to carry a heavy burden for the Colquitt County offense for them to continue their winning ways.
Justin Rogers came into a difficult situation in his first year with the Packers, finishing 9-3 and reaching the second round of the playoffs. He had some big shoes to fill, but the Packers played admirably, gaining 386 yards and scoring 35.5 points per game. The Packers’ attack did not miss a beat. But 2020 may prove a bigger challenge as a majority of the team’s leadership needs to be replaced. Many view this season as a rebuilding year for Colquitt County, and it’s hard not to see that as a realistic possibility, given the strength of some teams in their region. But if any program can reload quickly, it will be Colquitt County. I expect the Packers to stay competitive yet again.
Colquitt County will also need to replace the majority of their offensive and defensive lines. Gone are star quarterback Jaycee Harden and running back Daijun Edwards, the school record holder for most rushing yards and total touchdowns for a career. Edwards is the key loss for the Packers as he goes to the University of Georgia. He was the key cog in the Packers’ success for multiple years. Edwards had 1,416 total yards last season. They’ll also have to replace Florida State tight end Carter Boatwright and star linebacker Ty French. French led the team in tackles by a significant margin last season.
6-4. Colquitt County has a difficult schedule, including games against defending state champions Marietta in 7A and Cedar Grove in 3A, along with games against a talented team in Westlake and Valdosta. Colquitt County takes this season to rebuild their team.
COLQUITT COUNTY
KEY LOSSES
REGION 1 -7A
WHAT TO EXPECT
amerisbank.com
ITG Next | 19
QUARTERBACK | LOWNDES
TOP OFFERS
20 | itgnext.com
JACURRI BROWN
Loans for
Land
&
Farms
Looking for a place in the country? We specialize in financing rural real estate. • 20 year fixed rates for land. No balloons, no prepayment penalties. No worries. • We are customer-owned and customer-focused—so you can expect the best. • Share in our profits through our exclusive patronage dividend program!*
Learn more at www.aggeorgia.com/land
Helping Georgia Grow for Generations® 800.768.FARM |
| AgGeorgia.com
*Past returns not a guarantee of future payouts. Talk to a relationship manager for details.
NMLS# 627367 ITG Next | 21
There are reasons we are preferred.
2670 US Highway 441 S Douglas, GA 31535 (912) 383-0428
22 | itgnext.com
2725 Madison Hwy Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 671-4264
8369 State Road 6 West Jasper, FL 32052 (386)638-0020
5
SEPT
Hoover (AL)
11
SEPT Griffin
18
SEPT
Oakleaf (FL)
25
SEPT
Lee County
2
OCT
New Hampstead
9
16
OCT
@ Valdosta
30
OCT
6
OCT
Tift County
Alcovy
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
The Vikings are coming off one of their best runs over the past four seasons. After finishing 6-5 in 2015, the Vikings finished 10-3 in 2016, 11-1 in 2017, 10-4 in 2018, and 14-1 last year. The lone loss came to Marietta High School in the Class 7A state championship, a 17-9 loss. The 2019 season also saw the end of the Randy McPherson era at Lowndes, a sterling career run that lasted 18 seasons and saw the Vikings win three state championships, eight region championships, and 181 games. Lowndes welcomes in new head football coach Jamie DuBose, who comes to the South Georgia school from Central High School in Phoenix City, Alabama. There, he led the Red Devils to 66 wins and a state championship in six years. He inherits a Vikings squad that lost a good bit of talent, but has some returners. On offense, Lowndes will return five starters and contributors, while the defense will have six starters returning. The biggest question mark for DuBose will be the offensive line.
Offensively, the talented Jacurri Brown returns at quarterback, as do running backs Israel Mitchell and Justin Lee, wide receiver Dominique Marshall, and tight end Mallen Pope. On defense, the Vikings return both starting safeties in T.J. Quinn and Zavion Anthony, while Jaylon Baker returns at outside linebacker. The defensive line should be the strength of the team, with several parts of the unit returning. That includes Leon Williams, Jacques Hunter, and Thomas Davis, although he could be moving to linebacker.
KEY LOSSES
13
NOV
NOV
@ Colquitt County
Camden County
Head Coach: Jamey DuBose 1st Year HC
On offense, the losses are big, both figuratively and literally. The entire offensive line has graduated, including Robby Quiggins, Bryer Touchton, Walker Corbett, Jacarri Williams, and Eli Harrell. At wide receiver, Lowndes loses Tony Wiseman, Ghetti Brown, and Cornelius Wright. On defense, the linebacking corps was hit especially hard, with two-way player Gary Osby gone. (He also played running back.) Also lost are linebackers Devonn Lane, Cade Powell, and Hayden Wells. Defensive lineman Jaylon Jones will not return, along with starting corners Caleb Roberts and Josh Brown. Kicker Jose Palacious has graduated.
2019 STATS 14
Wins 564 175
1 Loss Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Milla Photography
REGION 1 -7A
overall record
LOWNDES
Even with the heavy personnel losses and McPherson’s retirement, don’t expect anyone in the Lowndes camp to wave the white flag and talk about a rebuild. I expect DuBose to rally the Vikings and fans with a new look and up-tempo offense built around Jacurri Brown. Expect a solid defensive effort from the Vikings. I see another deep run in the playoffs, with an 8-2 record, plus three postseason wins to give Dubose an 11-2 year in his first season in charge at Lowndes.
ACE PROUDLY SUPPORTS HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS
www.aceelectric.net
229.244.9288
Atlanta, GA • Macon, GA • Statesboro, GA Valdosta, GA • Siler City, NC • Jackson, TN ITG Next | 23
4
11
SEPT
@ Crisp County
SEPT Valdosta
18
SEPT
@ Thomas County Central
25
2
SEPT
OCT
@ Irwin County
Coffee
9
OCT
@ Worth County
16
30
OCT
OCT
Dothan (AL)
@ Lowndes
6
NOV
@ Camden County
13
NOV
Colquitt County
2019 STATS overall record Wins
3
7
160
Head Coach: Ashley Anders
Points Scored 234
Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson
WHAT TO EXPECT After consecutive trips to the state quarterfinals in 2017 and 2018 – a school record for Tift – last season saw an unexpected step back for the Blue Devils. Coach Ashley Anders’ team started the season 1-4 and never recovered. Tift County finished the season with a disappointing 3-7 record and out of the playoffs. Tift will try to prove that last season doesn’t define the true identity of the Blue Devils, which is to compete for the region championship and beyond. The 2020 season will bring changes to GHSA Class 7A, including Tift’s Region 1. That includes the elimination of the “atlarge” playoff team (which Tift qualified as in 2018) in 7A. This year, all four teams from Tift’s region will receive an automatic playoff berth, ensuring the Blue Devils will make their return to postseason play. According to Anders, this year’s team is ready to put last year in the rear view mirror. “This team is very hungry and eager to get Tift County back where we’re supposed to be, and that’s competing for championships, including a state title,” Anders said.
“This team is very hungry and eager to get Tift County back where we’re supposed to be, and that’s competing for championships, including a state title.” — Ashley Anders
WHO’S BACK
REGION 1 -7A
TIFT COUNTY
Losses
Tift returns six key contributors on offense. Rushing leader and senior Chrishon “Boobie” Stephens will return in the backfield, along with fellow senior Cade Anders, who was voted Region Utility Player of the Year. He’ll play H-back and tight end, and he will serve as the team’s long snapper. Defensively, Tift returns six starters, including leading tackler and senior linebacker J.D. Bengston, a First Team All-Region selection last season. He’ll be joined by fellow linebacker Daniel Whitehead, along with cornerbacks Wendell McClain and Stephen Thomas. The biggest name at Tift County is junior Tyre West, who is regarded as one of the top 10 players in the country in the class of 2022. He’s big and fast and constantly takes on double teams on the Blue Devils’ defensive line.
KEY LOSSES Tift must replace four key members of their offensive line, including Boone Utley (Kennesaw State), Archer Hathaway (Shorter), Tye Conner (Valdosta State), and Ben Brock (Shorter). On the defensive side, Tift lost defensive end Jalon Miller (West Georgia), defensive tackle Byron Williams (Clark Atlanta), and defensive back Jaylon Jackson (Urbana University).
10-3. Look for Tift to return to their winning ways and go deep into the state playoffs.
Where New And Used Vehicles Cost Less 24 | itgnext.com
Stay In The Game
Outcome-based treatment and therapy designed to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.
Download the FREE
Tift Regional App Today
2 2 2 7 H I G H W AY 4 1 N O R T H , T I F T O N | 2 2 9 - 3 8 6 - 5 2 2 2 | W W W .T I F T R E G I O N A L . C O M / G S M
HERE TO HELP LIFE GO RIGHT
Chance Veazey 1601 Us Highway 41 N Tifton, GA 31794 229-472-1495
Haley Roberts 815 Love Avenue Tifton, GA 31794 229-382-5825
Darby Veazey 615 Virginia Ave N Suite C Tifton, GA 31794 229-388-9990
Chad Sumner 2402 Tift Ave N Suite 104 Tifton, GA 31794 229-382-1195
Listen at: itgnext.com/podcast
26 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins
1 Losses
466
Points Scored
180
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of mceachernhigh.org/athletics
5
SEPT
North Gwinnett
11
18
SEPT
SEPT
Grayson
Marietta
25
SEPT
@ Hillgrove
2
OCT Newton
9
OCT
@ Milton
23
OCT
@ Campbell
30
OCT
@ Newnan
Head Coach: Franklin Stephens
13
20
NOV
NOV
East Coweta
Pebblebrook
WHO’S BACK Ese Dubre is a dominant defensive end and outside linebacker for the Indians who put together a fantastic junior year. He finished first on the team in tackles with 108 last season to go along with seven sacks, four forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. He will be a major contributor to the Indians once again and will be tasked with keeping this defense great given the number of players leaving.
Franklin Stephens really made a splash with the Indians his first year. They started 12-0 and rolled to the quarterfinals, where they lost their first game of the season to North Gwinnett 32-13. It was their best finish in over 16 years, and the Indians still put together an impressive resume despite the quarterfinals loss. Their season included a win over an impressive Hillgrove team and eventual state champion Marietta during the regular season and an undefeated region record. McEachern had a loaded roster last season, but a lot of that talent is changing over in 2020. They lose their leading passer, rusher, and top two receivers on the offensive side of the ball, along with some of their top defensive players. While they should still win their new region, the Indians will need to prove the depth they built on the field.
The Indians have a lot of turnover from graduation and transfers out. Their two leading rushers, Jordon Simmons and Christian Mason, both graduated. They combined for 1,671 yards rushing and 25 touchdowns last season. Javon Baker was a leader at the receiver position, finishing with 629 yards receiving and leading the team with 11 touchdowns. He signed to play with Alabama next season. Along with Baker, the Indians’ top two running backs also graduated in Jordon Simmons and Christian Mason. Jamil Burroughs was a star defensive tackle last season, finishing third on the team in tackles and 9.5 sacks. He is now playing on Saturdays for the Crimson Tide as well. Along with the graduates, McEachern was hit hard in the transfer market. Star quarterback Carlos Del Rio moved to Grayson, and star linebacker Chief Borders transferred to Carrollton. Del Rio and Borders are both future Florida Gators and were standouts for McEachern. Wide receiver Dacari Collins led the team in receiving yards and has moved to Westlake.
9-3. McEachern will be competitive once again and can take advantage of their region schedule to get back to the playoffs.
MCEACHERN
KEY LOSSES
REGION 2 -7A
WHAT TO EXPECT
ITG Next | 27
4
18
SEPT
SEPT
Allatoona
Hughes
25
SEPT
@ North Forsyth
2
9
OCT
OCT
@ Westlake
Alpharetta
23
OCT
North Cobb
30
OCT
@ North Paulding
6
NOV
@ Marietta
13
20
NOV
NOV
Walton
Hillgrove
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Matt Dickmann
It was a perfect season for the Harrison Hoyas. It wasn’t just the state championship. It wasn’t just the undefeated season. It was how easy it almost seemed. Surely, if you speak with head coach Matt Dickmann, it wasn’t easy at all. But Harrison didn’t have a single loss all season and only had one game within single digits. They may not have been as talented as some of the players at Marietta, but there’s no doubt that Harrison was the most dominant team in the state of Georgia last season. Speaking of Marietta, Harrison will have to get used to their new counterpart. The school moves to Class 7A, and with that comes a tough task and a difficult region with reigning state champion Marietta, Walton, Hillgrove, North Cobb, and North Paulding. It will be a tough one for Harrison as they have to replace a lot of graduating talent.
WHO’S BACK Marcus Bleazard is the top returning player for the Hoyas. Bleazard was second on the team in tackles with 136 tackles as well as eight sacks to lead the team. He also operated as a goal line running back with seven touchdowns. He currently has offers from Air Force, BYU, Utah, and Tennessee. Bleazard is joined with Davion Hood on the defensive line. The Hoyas were terrific on defense, giving up about 10 points a game to go along with 44 sacks and 15 interceptions. There are some holes to fill, but this defense has a lot of talent at the top to make them formidable again.
KEY LOSSES
7-3. Harrison has some skill and now the pedigree. The step up to 7A will present a challenge, but it won’t slow them down.
REGION 3 -7A
HARRISON
Starting quarterback Gavin Hall was one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the state of Georgia. He had a great arm and was a big-time player for the Hoyas before heading to Toledo. Harrison also loses the top interception man in Victor Pless and top tackler in linebacker Ryan Smith, who is going to play for Duke. There’s a lot of talent leaving, but Dickmann has shown the ability to continue to build this program into a team that is consistently making the playoffs.
28 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 15
Wins 589 157
Points Scored Points Allowed Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Harrison High School
4
SEPT Norcross
11
SEPT @ Kell
25
2
SEPT
OCT
McEachern
Morrow
9
23
OCT
@ Gainesville
OCT
@ Walton
30
OCT Marietta
6
NOV North Cobb
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Head football coach Phillip Ironside has left the school after 14 years of leading the Hawks on Friday nights. Ironside actually started the program 14 years ago. He left to take the head coaching job at Worth County, a team that has been struggling to find their identity over the last few years. Stepping into the job as head coach is Byron Slack, who has been at Lowndes for the last three years as defensive coordinator. Before that, Slack was the defensive coordinator for Camden County. He’ll now be in charge of the entire operation at Hillgrove, including a talented, wide-open offense that put up some major numbers last season en route to a 7-4 campaign. After a 7-1 start, Hillgrove dropped their final two regular season matchups, then lost the playoff game to Lowndes in which the Hawks were held to their lowest scoring total of the year, 8 points. That should give Hawks fans a pretty good indicator of the type of defensive mentality that Slack brings to Hillgrove.
Six returners are back, including offensive linemen Cameron Pound and Joshua Dingler. They’ll look to pave the way for running back T.J. Thomas. Quarterback Theo Tatum is back, and Slack really likes his physical style of play. “Theo is a big, physical kid, and we will use his physicality, especially in short yardage situations,” Slack said. When he is not running with the ball, Tatum will be looking for wide receiver Jaylen Royals, along with sophomore receiver Caden Lee. According to Slack, Lee possesses a lot of potential. “He’s already receiving a lot of offers,” Slack said. On defense, Slack welcomes back senior defensive lineman Darrel Ellis. The defensive backfield is loaded with D1 talent, including corners Juwan Gardner and Andrew Worthy, who have offers from The Air Force Academy. The returning free safety is Andreas Keaton, who, according to Slack, is receiving several offers. Also returning is outside linebacker Gordon Abernathy.
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ North Paulding
@ Harrison
Head Coach: Byron Slack
1st Year Head Coach
2019 STATS
Wins 318 217 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of hillgrovefootball.org
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
REGION 3 -7A
overall record 7
HILLGROVE
Hillgrove has experienced moderate success over the past four years, including a 12-1 mark in 2018. Slack has inherited a solid group that should continue to play winning football. Hawks fans should expect more good things this season, especially with more emphasis on the defensive side of the ball. Look for Hillgrove to land in the playoffs as a home team this year.
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms!
ITG Next | 29
4
SEPT
Colquitt County
11
SEPT
Armwood (FL)
18
SEPT
@ McEachern
25
SEPT
@ Camden County
2
23
OCT
OCT
@ Parkview
North Paulding
30
OCT
@ Hillgrove
6
NOV Harrison
13
NOV
@ North Cobb
20
NOV Walton
2019 STATS overall record 14
Wins 586
Head Coach: Richard Morgan
294
2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Marietta Football via Twitter
KEY LOSSES The state champs suffered heavy losses to graduation. Gone are receiver Arik Gilbert (LSU), defensive end B.J. Ojulari (LSU), quarterback Harrison Bailey (Tennessee), running back Kimani Vadel (Troy), left tackle Jake Wray (Colorado), receiver Ricky White (Michigan State), receiver Taji Johnson (Boston College), center Will Pieroni (Kennesaw State), and safety Rashad Torrence (Florida). Those are some major shoes to fill. Despite the losses, head coach Richard Morgan isn’t ready to concede anything. “We will always expect to contend for a state championship, and winning the title last season has provided us with even more excitement and motivation as we prepare for this season,” he said.
“We will always expect to contend for a state championship, and winning the title last season has provided us with even more excitement and motivation as we prepare for this season.” — Richard Morgan
WHO’S BACK
WHAT TO EXPECT
REGION 3 -7A
MARIETTA
Two starters on offense return this season. Guard Matt Castaldo is back, as is wide receiver Gabriel Durham-Campbell. Castaldo is a 6-foot, 300-pound lineman, while Durham is a pass catching machine at 6-foot-two. Defensively, the returning talent is thin there too. Linebackers Daniel Martin and Carlos Cervantes are back.
30 | itgnext.com
The Blue Devils were one of the most talented teams in the state last year, and they have the hardware to prove it. Their 14-2 record includes a 17-9 victory over the Lowndes Vikings in the Class 7A state championship game. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, the Blue Devils went on to hand Eastside Catholic High School a 53-14 drubbing in the GEICO State Champions Bowl Series Showcase game in Las Vegas to end the season on a truly triumphant note. Looking ahead, Morgan is facing what could be a serious rebuilding project. He’ll return just four total starters, with several key contributors from last year now playing D1 football.
Losing the quantity and quality of talent from last season may be too much to overcome this season. Marietta will finish 6-4 and still qualify for the postseason, but there will be a new champ from Region 3-7A this season.
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins
2 Losses
407
Head Coach: Adam Carter
4
SEPT Creekside
11
SEPT
@ McEachern
Points Scored
200
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Eric Vinson
18
SEPT Stephenson
25
SEPT
@ Archer
2
OCT
Paul W. Bryant (AL)
9
OCT Mill Creek
16
OCT
@ South Gwinnett
30
OCT Parkview
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
The question isn’t “What are we expecting from Grayson?” but “How high is their limit?” This team looks primed to make a deep run in the GHSA 7A playoffs, with a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. Carlos Del Rio enters as quarterback after moving in from McEachern, and he and Phil Mafah create one of the best quarterback and running back tandems in the state of Georgia. The Rams finished last season 11-2 and averaged 31.3 points per game. They were bounced in the third round of the playoffs, where they lost to Lowndes, but are optimistic to make it even further in 2020. “There will always be expectations at Grayson High School, regardless of the amount of recruiting stars our kids receive,” head coach Adam Carter said.
In addition to Mafah taking over the starting role at running back and Del Rio at quarterback, Grayson remains loaded at the skill positions. Daejon Reynolds enters as the top receiver, transferring in from Central Gwinnett, and he leads a deep receiving class for the Rams. This team is just loaded with talent all over the field. “They are three very talented kids, but even better people,” Carter said. “What they bring in the locker room, weight room, and our program is just as significant as their on-thefield play. When you have young men that are as motivated as those three, it makes my job easier.” Along with Reynolds, Andre Stewart comes to play cornerback from Marietta, and Griffin Scroggs joins the offensive line from Buford. Both should make significant contributions in 2020.
KEY LOSSES
— Adam Carter
@ Brookwood
Newton
GRAYSON
“I think you manage expectations by accepting them. Our kids know that it doesn’t matter about the talent if they do not put in the work. I will always put higher expectations on our coaches, players, and program than any poll. We expect to be there late in the playoffs every season.”
13
NOV
REGION 4 -7A
Quarterback C.J. Dixon and running back Lafayette Gurvin Jr. are gone. Dixon threw for 2,434 yards and 21 touchdowns last season, and Gurvin Jr. finished with 1,274 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. Those were the key losses for Grayson, but they have a deep returning core plus some new faces.
9-1. On paper, Grayson has the most talented team in the state. Anything less than a Final Four appearance or possibly a state championship will be viewed as a disappointment.
6
NOV
ITG Next | 31
QUARTERBACK | GRAYSON
TOP OFFERS COMMITTED
32 | itgnext.com
CARLOS DEL RIO
5
SEPT
@ Mill Creek
11
18
SEPT
SEPT
Mountain View
@ North Gwinnett
25
SEPT
@ Loganville
2
9
16
OCT
OCT
OCT
Marietta
Tucker
Newton
WHAT TO EXPECT Not many predicted the Parkview Panthers to reach the state semifinals, but their dynamic offense did just that, upending South Georgia giants Colquitt County in the Sweet 16, then beating Archer in the quarterfinals before falling to eventual state champions Marietta in the semifinals. Parkview head coach Eric Godfree was pleased with the success from last season, but is always looking for areas of improvement. They’re led by running back Cody Brown, who is perhaps the most talented skill position player in the state of Georgia. Brown stands at only 6 feet tall, but packs a powerful punch. He finished 2019 with 1,676 yards and 20 touchdowns. A multi-sport athlete who also excels in discus and soccer, Brown shows his strength in his running and will lead the Panthers offense once again in 2020. Parkview overall has a lot of returning talent, and should be a competitive team in the 7A classification again.
30
OCT
@ Grayson
“Our goal is to always win our last game and be named state champions. We’ll need a strong senior class that leads well. They will help get the underclassmen ready to make plays when needed.” — Eric Godfree
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
Along with Cody Brown, leading receiver Jared Brown returns for his senior season. He finished with 969 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. Defensively, the trio of T.J. Williams, Quincy Bryant, and Ronnie Hamrick make up one of the most talented secondaries in the state of Georgia. They combined for seven interceptions in 2019. The biggest question will be Colin Houck at quarterback. The sophomore should take over the starting role after limited reps as a freshman, but his talent on the football field and baseball diamond already has the attention of Florida State. If he can prove to be elite in 2020, the sky’s the limit for Parkview.
The biggest losses for Parkview are the two leaders on offense and defense. Middle linebacker Kobe Wilson led the team with a staggering 119 tackles last season. He signed with Temple University. “We have a lot of the main pieces coming back, but we have to replace important players at quarterback, linebacker, and defensive line,” Godfree said. “We will need players in these positions to grow quickly to improve on last season.” On offense, quarterback Jordan Williams is the biggest departure for the Panthers. The two-year starter finished with 4,309 yards and 34 touchdowns in two seasons. Replacing the quarterback position is never an easy task, but Parkview has a lot of talent waiting in the wings.
6
20
NOV
NOV
South Gwinnett
@ Brookwood
Head Coach: Eric Godfree
2019 STATS 12
Wins 520 242 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Eric Vinson
2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
REGION 4 -7A
overall record
PARKVIEW
9-1. Parkview has top tier Division I talent all over the field and will likely be competing for a state championship in 2020.
ITG Next | 33
4
SEPT
@ Cambridge
11
SEPT
North Cobb
Head Coach: Adam Clack
17
SEPT
John’s Creek
25
9
SEPT
OCT
Hapeville
McEachern
16
OCT
@ Alpharetta
23
6
OCT
NOV
Etowah
Roswell
13
NOV
@ Woodstock
20
NOV
@ Cherokee
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
The reigning state champions at Milton had a fair amount of expectations for the 2019 season and fell a little short with a 4-6 finish. The opening of the season was promising. They shut out a solid Alpharetta team. They battled competitive teams like state champions Buford and semi-finalists Parkview, but fell just short. They then lost their final three region games and lost to eventual state champion Marietta in the second round of the playoffs. Overall, the Eagles went 5-7, and five of their seven losses came by one score or less. Milton still remains a team with a national presence in the state of Georgia, but they lose a ton of talent. The Eagles will have to replace nine of their defensive players and their leading rusher. Milton will be in the conversation and favorites to win their region, but may not have the tools to compete for a state title in 2020 with so much changeover.
Tight end Jack Nickel is the top rated player at Milton. The rising junior has multiple power five offers and is regarded as one of the top tight ends in the state. He pairs with another upcoming junior Devin Farrell at quarterback, who had over 1,800 total yards and 15 total touchdowns at the quarterback position last season. The Eagles also bring back a solid offensive line and Jordan McDonald, who had a solid season as a backup running back with 10 touchdowns, and he’s already got offers from Florida State, South Carolina, and Louisville. On the defensive side, Bryce Thornton is a rising star in the Milton program. He started as a freshman last season and finished with nine pass break-ups. He is someone who will be needed to make a huge leap forward for a team that lost so much defensive talent. Garrett Smalley at safety is also the leading returning tackler.
6-4. This team should win the region, but the losses on defense will be difficult to overcome. It should be a solid playoff season for the Eagles.
KEY LOSSES The Eagles lost a lot. Nine of their 10 leading tacklers have all graduated. Zander Barnett was the top defensive player in the region. He lived in the backfield last year, finishing with 27 tackles for loss, nine sacks, and nine tackles for loss. He’s now in Virginia playing for the Richmond Spiders. Along with Barnett, safety Jack Rhodes was the team’s leading tackler at the safety position. It’ll be tough for the Eagles to replace 426 tackles from last year’s team. Along with the defense, leading rusher Ahmad Junearick was one of the top offensive players for the Eagles. He rushed for over 1,000 yards and 20 touchdowns.
REGION 5 -7A
MILTON
2019 STATS
34 | itgnext.com
overall record 8
Wins 348 146 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Milton High School
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins
3 Losses
327
Points Scored Points Allowed
131 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of roswellathletics.org
4
SEPT
@ South Forsyth
11
SEPT Centennial
25
SEPT
@ North Paulding
Head Coach: Chris Prewett
1st Time Head Coach
2
OCT
@ Campbell
9
OCT Walton
16
OCT
@ Etowah
23
OCT Cherokee
6
NOV
@ Milton
13
20
OCT
NOV
Alpharetta
Woodstock
WHAT TO EXPECT After leading the Hornets to consecutive region titles with a combined 9-1 mark against 4-7A opponents in 2018 and 2019, head coach Matt Kemper has left Roswell to take the head coaching job at Etowah High School. Taking over the program is Chris Prewett, who has been named as interim head coach. Prewett has served as Roswell’s defensive coordinator for the past three years under Kemper. Now, he’ll try to return Roswell back to the state championship, where they last found themselves in 2015 and 2016. (The Hornets suffered losses in both title games, to Colquitt County and Grayson, respectively.) Prewett will first have to get Roswell past the first round of the playoffs. Despite winning their region championship and clinching the No. 1 seed in each of the last two seasons, the Hornets have lost their first round playoff games. The team finished 8-3 overall with a 4-1 region record last year. But with the Hornets returning several key contributors, look for Roswell to get another shot at a playoff run. According to Prewett, the Hornets must overcome some challenges in 2020. “This team has a challenging road ahead to a third straight region championship,” he said. “We graduated 26 seniors, many of whom were major contributors to this team, but we feel there is plenty of talent ready to step up and contribute.”
Roswell returns six offensive starters. That includes three skill position guys, with senior wide receivers Michael Fitzgerald and Marquis Willis returning, along with junior wideout Ryan Hill. There will be returning help on the interior as well. Roswell welcomes back senior offensive linemen Trey Lednik, Anietie Ntekop, and Corey Robinson. On defense, Roswell returns four starters, all seniors. They are linebacker Harrison Duncan and defensive backs D’Aire Griffen, Dillon Holifield, and Evan Plunkett.
Roswell has many holes to fill. The Hornets lose 26 seniors to graduations, and according to Prewett, 14 of them will be playing college football this season. Among them will be John Copenhaver, a big tight end and playmaker for Roswell last season. He will be playing for North Carolina this fall. He’ll have fellow Roswell teammate and offensive lineman Trey Zimmerman right there with him in Raleigh.
Roswell lost some major talent to graduation. Winning a third straight region title will be tough. Look for the Hornets to stay in the mix, however, with a 7-4 record and a No. 2 seed in the playoffs. It’ll be good enough for another playoff run, but with familiar results.
ROSWELL
KEY LOSSES
REGION 5 -7A
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 35
2019 STATS overall record 6
Wins
4
Points Scored
293
Head Coach: Mike Palmieri
1st Year Head Coach
3
SEPT Tucker
11
SEPT
@ Allatoona
Losses
Points Allowed
207 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of denmarkdanefootball.com
18
SEPT Shiloh
25
SEPT Lanier
2
OCT
@ North Forsyth
16
OCT
Forsyth Central
23
OCT
@ Lambert
6
NOV
South Forsyth
13
NOV Gainesville
20
NOV
West Forsyth
WHAT TO EXPECT
REGION 6 - 7A
DENMARK
The school has been around for just two years, but there’s a lot of changeover at Denmark heading into next season. After losing their leading rusher, receiver, and four of their top five leading tacklers, the Danes also lost head coach Terry Crowder to retirement after two years, a star offensive lineman to transfer, and made the largest jump in GHSA realignment from 4A to 7A. Coach Mike Palmieri comes into the program after building a powerhouse at Mallard Creek in North Carolina. He won three state championships and coached multiple NFL talents. When the Danes won last season, which they did six times, they looked great. They outscored teams 253 to 59. But they lost four games and were bounced in the first round of the playoffs after losing to Sandy Creek. This team was competitive, though, and battled eventual champions Blessed Trinity to a 20-19 loss. But the changes to the program may be insurmountable in 2020.
36 | itgnext.com
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
The star player on the roster is Aaron McLaughlin. He stands out on the field, literally. He’s 6-foot-5 and has a cannon for an arm. The NC State commit is one of the star quarterbacks of the state, and he’s ranked No. 53 in the country in the ESPN 300 rankings. He finished with 26 total touchdowns last season and is looking to have a big senior season. Harrison Halder also returns as one of the top defensive players. He had 55 tackles and a team-leading six sacks. He’ll step up as the leader of the defense at the middle linebacker position. Justin Bradford also returns, and he led the team with five interceptions. He was the best player in the secondary last season.
Despite being a young school, the Danes lost a lot of talent heading into the next season. Zach Burchfield and C.J. Ford were the top two tacklers in the country and have both graduated. Jordan Brunson and Ze’vian Capers were the team’s leading rusher and receiver, respectively. They also combined for 19 touchdowns last season, and that production will be difficult to replace.
3-7. McLaughlin is certainly a talented kid who will make some big plays, and Palmieri certainly seems like a good coach, but the jump from 4A to 7A may be too much for the Danes in 2020.
3
SEPT
@ Dacula
11
SEPT
@ Warner Robins
25
SEPT Grayson
2
OCT
@ North Gwinnett
9
OCT Dunwoody
16
OCT
@ Meadowcreek
30
OCT Berkmar
6
NOV
@ Discovery
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Norcross
Duluth
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins
Head Coach: Andy Dyer
4
445
Losses
Points Scored
224
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of gcpsk12.org/archerhs
WHAT TO EXPECT When teams lose a four-year starter at quarterback, it is typically a difficult transition into a new season. Carter Peevy is moving on to Mercer University after finishing his career at Archer with over 6,400 yards and 63 touchdowns. Now starts a new era. Archer finished last season 9-4, reaching the final eight of the state 7A bracket before losing to Parkview. It was exactly what the team had been all season: good, but unable to get over the hump. With close losses to Grayson and Buford in the regular season, it seemed like they were just unable to beat some of the top teams. They’ll look to beat some of the top tier teams they have early in their schedule for 2020 to build on last season’s success, and to do that they need to find some stability on the offensive and defensive lines.
Speaking of seniors, safeties Jackson McCrary and Jaylen Williams combined for 133 tackles last season and will lead a talented secondary in 2020. They’ll be rejoined by sack leader Jose Quezada on the defensive line. Archer’s defense should be good in 2020, as they intercepted 12 passes and only allowed 17 points per game. Offensively, running back Renoldo Spivey Jr. returns, and he led the team in rushing last season. He and Schmari Campbell were part of a three-headed machine that rushed for over 2,700 yards last season. If they can get the blocking up front, they’ll be able to rack up the yards.
Along with Peevy, the Tigers lose their entire offensive line. It was led by Ethan Lane, who signed with North Carolina State, and all five have since graduated. That level of communication between senior quarterback and senior offensive linemen will be difficult to replicate. Defensively, Kameron O’Rourke graduated and was the leading tackler for Archer last season. But overall, the Archer defense had a good amount of underclassmen who will need to step into leadership roles for 2020.
5-5. Archer opens the season with a difficult schedule: at Dacula and Warner Robins, home to Grayson, and at North Gwinnett. It could be a slippery slope for a team that lost a lot of senior leadership.
ARCHER
KEY LOSSES
REGION 7 -7A
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 37
5
SEPT Parkview
11
SEPT
@ Norcross
18
SEPT Dacula
2
OCT
West Forsyth
9
OCT
@ Grayson
16
OCT
@ North Gwinnett
30
OCT
Mountain View
6
NOV Newton
23
NOV
@ Collins Hill
20
NOV
Peachtree Ridge
2019 STATS overall record 10
Wins 433
Head Coach: Josh Lovelady
203
Josh Lovelady will kick off his second year as the Mill Creek head coach after serving 15 seasons as an assistant coach for the Hawks. His first year as the head man was a success, as he led Mill Creek to a 9-4 record and a quarterfinal playoff matchup against eventual state champion Marietta, where the Hawks’ season came to an end. Lovelady will have five returning starters on offense and four returning starters on defense, but will have some big holes to fill. That includes most of the offensive line, as well as a couple of key skill position players. The news isn’t all bad, however, as Mill Creek will have key players back on both sides of the ball. The Hawks’ success will depend on whether the returners’ performance can outweigh the impact of those players lost to graduation. Lovelady said he wants his team to “play fast and play physical.”
REGION 8 -7A
MILL CREEK
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Mill Creek High School Sports via Facebook
WHAT TO EXPECT
38 | itgnext.com
3 Losses
“We don’t rebuild; we reload here at Millcreek,” Lovelady said.
WHO’S BACK The lone returner on the offensive line, C.J., Easley is back. The two-year starter will also play some linebacker this season. Running back Josh Battle will return and is being recruited as an athlete by several big-name schools. He played safety for the Hawks last season. On defense, some big-time talent returns, including defensive end Brayden Dudley, who at 6-foot-4 is a major college prospect. Cornerback Emon Hill is a player that Lovelady calls “a big-time play maker.” Hill is being courted by Louisville and Kansas.
KEY LOSSES Tail back Chancelor Lee Parker finished with over 1,800 yards rushing last season and has signed with Mars Hill College. Receiver Parker Wroble will play at the Air Force Academy. He was an All-State receiver the last two years at Millcreek. Defensive End Myles Jackson has graduated and has decided to head west, where he will play at UCLA.
Look for Millcreek to compete for a region championship and maybe more in 2020. Lovelady is a solid coach, and he’s got some serious talent to build around. I see an 8-2 or 9-1 record for the Hawks with another deep run in the playoffs.
2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins
2 Losses
558
Points Scored
195
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of North Gwinnett Football via Twitter
5
SEPT
@ McEachern
11
SEPT
@ Jones County
18
25
SEPT
SEPT
@ Lovejoy
Parkview
2
OCT Archer
9
OCT
North Cobb
16
OCT
Mill Creek
30
OCT
@ Collins Hill
Head Coach: Bill Stewart
6
20
NOV
NOV
Peachtree Ridge
@ Mountain View
WHAT TO EXPECT The Bulldogs will be changing regions for the upcoming 2020 season – sort of. They will now be a part of Region 8-7A, but the majority of their former Region 6-7A mates will also make the move to the new region. It doesn’t seem to really matter which region North Gwinnett plays in. Since finishing 6-5 in 2016, the Bulldogs of coach Bill Stewart rallied the next year to finish 14-1 and capture the Class 7A state championship, followed by 10 wins in 2018 and 12 victories last season. They have won 20 consecutive region contests during that incredible run and are the favorite once again to win the region. But, it won’t be easy. Stewart and the Dogs lost a load of talent, but its not as if the cupboard is bare.
North Gwinnett will see five returning starters on both sides of the ball this year. That includes wide receivers Bobby Ezzard and Seth Anderson, who are both being recruited by Power 5 schools. They’ll be the favorite targets of senior quarterback Ashton Wood, who has the task of replacing quarterback J.R. Martin. On defense, North Gwinnett has two of the most highly recruited players this season: cornerback Jordan Hancock and linebacker Barrett Carter. Corbin Hood returns at linebacker, and Aaron Brebnor returns at safety.
It will be hard for Stewart to say goodbye to these playmakers: quarterback J.R. Martin, wide receiver Josh Downs, Jarvis Cunningham, Taylor Goodson, running back Devin Crosby, D.J. Hart, Spencer Moore, and lineman Ari Kamau, who signed with William Jewell College. Stewart will have to rally the troops to keep the Bulldogs on top in the region. “We lost some great talent on both sides of the ball, but at the same time, we also know that we have some great players returning this year,” he said. “I expect us to compete for a region and state championship again this year. We’ll be fine.”
There should be enough talent surrounding new starting quarterback Ashton Wood to keep North Gwinnett on top in Region 8-7A. Look for a 9-1 record to give the Dogs a deep run into the playoffs.
NORTH GWINNETT
KEY LOSSES
REGION 8 -7A
WHO’S BACK
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms!
ITG Next | 39
Written by: Kyle Grondin
PASSING LEADERS
RUSHING LEADERS
Jaylen Smith Chattahoochee 1,825 YDS
Andrew Blackford Lanier 1,742 YDS
Brody Rhodes Creekview 1,486 YDS
Zaire Goff Centennial 1,334 YDS
Antonio Martin Langston Hughes 1,535 YDS
Gabe Ervin Buford 1,210 YDS
Jackson Clouatre Habersham Central 1,105 YDS
Chuckobe Hill Brunswick 1,058 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH Rome @ Carrollton
Valdosta @ Lee Co.
Dacula @ Buford
One of the best rivalries in the state, everyone is paying attention when Rome and Carrollton meet. Last season, this was a battle for two of the top teams in 5A. Now it’s a battle of two of the top teams in 6A. Both offenses should be great yet again in this North Georgia rivalry.
One of the best games of the season last year saw Lee County come out on top and go on to win the region title. It was a back and forth offensive outburst that went down to the wire. It most likely will decide the region title again as new Wildcats coach Rush Propst travels to Leesburg to take on the talented Trojans.
This matchup is one of the top teams in all of 6A last season against one of the top programs in Georgia state history. They go head to head in the final week of the regular season, with Dacula looking to keep a hold on the region, while Buford is looking to show it can play in any classification and be successful.
40 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES New coaches, classification realignment, and players at new schools make 6A one of the most intriguing classifications in the state. Rush Propst is back coaching in the state of Georgia at Valdosta, and with him as head coach comes excitement and anticipation. Westlake has six players in the top 90 in the state of Georgia, and of course there’s the new arrivals, Buford and Carrollton, that make 6A one of the most talented classifications in the state.
RECEIVING LEADERS
INTERCEPTION LEADERS Brett Blomquist
Aalah Brown
Allatoona 7
Valdosta 1,164 YDs
Gregory Freightman
Javonte Sherman
Richmond Hill 4
Valdosta 1,156 YDs
John Stegenga
Jordan Palmer
Johns Creek 4
Chattahooche 921 YDs
Dacari Collins
Jordan Clark
Westlake 696 YDs
Richmond Hill 4
TOP 10 RANKINGS 6A
1
2 Buford
6
3 Valdosta
7 Dacula
Richmond Hill
5
4 Lee Co.
9
8 Allatoona
Westlake
Carrollton
10 Tucker
Rome
ITG Next | 41
2019 STATS overall record Wins
7
7
Losses
338
Points Scored
336
Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
4
SEPT Perry
11
SEPT
@ Crisp County
18
SEPT
@ Heritage (Conyers)
25
SEPT
@ Statesboro
2
OCT
@ Warner Robins
9
OCT Newton
16
OCT
@ Veterans
30
OCT
@ Lee County
Head Coach: Ryan Crawford
6
13
NOV
NOV
Northside (Warner Robins)
Valdosta
“It was tough, but we’ve got a great group of kids who are working hard this offseason.” — Ryan Crawford
WHAT TO EXPECT
KEY LOSSES
The bulk of the offensive line returns, including Chandler Strong, Roman Mundy, Scott Rhodes, and Zac Lyle. They’ll pave the way for returning running back Corey Chaisson. Much of the defense returns, including defensive ends Jayleem Santos and Hunter Rizer.
Quarterback Max Rigby and receivers Isaiah Harris and Leeshoen Jarrett graduated, as did linebacker Antuan Adams.
They’ll have a 7-3 regular season and finish with another shot at the playoffs.
REGION 1 - 6A
WHO’S BACK
HOUSTON COUNTY
Last season was a roller coast of a ride for coach Ryan Crawford and his Bears football team. A 4-0 start to the season had HoCo fans excited, especially after consecutive two-win seasons with several players transferring out of the program zapped much of their enthusiasm. Following a thrilling 32-31 overtime win over Peach County, the Bears went into a mid-season slump, losing five straight games, including four region contests. But, in the final game of the season, Houston County defeated county rival Northside-Warner Robins to finish 5-5 and clinch the No. 4 seed in Region 1-6A. That rejuvenated Crawford’s team in the playoffs, as they advanced to the quarterfinals. The season ended there at the hands of Harrison. But, the 7-6 finish has renewed faith with Crawford and his players. They now believe and know they can compete with anyone. The Bears will have six starters back on offense and seven on defense, but will have to overcome some big losses at key positions, including quarterback. Crawford is hoping last year’s success carries over to this season. “It took us a couple of years to get back after losing a lot of good players by way of transferring and graduation,” Crawford said. “It was tough, but we’ve got a great group of kids who are working hard this offseason.”
SHAWN BUCHANAN
524 S Houston Lake Rd Bldg K Ste 400 Warner Robins, GA 31088 Office 478-333-3147 shawn.buchanan@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/shawn.buchanan
ITG Next | 43
All sports. All injuries. All year long. No matter the sport, no matter the season, the Phoebe orthopaedics and sports medicine team works hard to get their patients back to what they love. From the field to diagnosis and treatment you can count on Phoebe’s certified athletic trainers, orthopaedic specialists and physical therapists for a team approach to top-quality care. To learn how Phoebe’s comprehensive orthopaedic and sports medicine team can help you, visit phoebeortho.com.
Phoebe Orthopaedics of Albany
Phoebe Orthopaedics of Americus
2709 Meredyth Drive, Suite 450 | Albany, Georgia
132 US Highway 280 West, Suite B | Americus, Georgia
Troy Skidmore, DO Nur Nurbhai, DO Anie Uyoe, MD Jordan Knoefler, MD Stephen Alayli, DPM
John Fennessy, MD Ryan Breland, MD
229-312-5000
229-931-6830
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins
2 Losses
499
Head Coach: Dean Fabrizio
4
SEPT
@ Monroe
11
SEPT
Jackson (Atlanta)
Points Scored
215
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Eric Vinson
18
SEPT
Crawford County
25
SEPT
@ Lowndes
2
OCT
Lithia Springs
9
OCT
Warner Robins
16
OCT
North Miami Beach (FL)
30
OCT
Houston County
6
NOV
@ Northside (Warner Robins)
13
NOV Valdosta
“We have a very experienced team coming back, and our expectations are always high. — Dean Fabrizio This year won’t be any different.”
REGION 1 - 6A
LEE COUNTY
WHAT TO EXPECT The Trojans found themselves in a strange situation last year during the weekend of the GHSA state championship games. Instead of being a participant in the Class 6A game, as they had been for the previous two title matchups, they were spectators after falling to Dacula in the quarterfinals by a 56-21 margin. It still doesn’t take away from what was otherwise a terrific season, with only two losses, including the playoff defeat. Lee County also won their third straight region title in the always competitive Region 1-6A. Head coach Dean Fabrizio’s team will welcome back five starters on the offensive side of the ball, while the majority of the defense will be returning. History will show that no matter how many personnel losses Fabrizio has to replace, he always finds a way to put together a talented team that competes for championships. In fact, that’s exactly what the head coach expects. “We have a very experienced team coming back, and our expectations are always high,” he said. “This year won’t be any different.”
WHO’S BACK Lee County returns a lot of experience, including a pair of talented running backs. Caleb McDowell and three-year starter Preston Simmons will form an explosive rushing attack. Wide receiver Chauncey Magwood will return for his senior season, which will mark his fourth straight season as a starter. He was recognized as an All-State performer last year. On defense, Lee has a stunning 8 returning starters, led by four-year starter Baron Hopson at linebacker. He’ll have fellow linebacker Anthony McGrady lining up by his side. Defensive back Jaron Willis and defensive lineman Jeffrey Bryan are also part of the talented returners.
KEY LOSSES Quarterback Kyle Toole will leave a lot of offense behind, including his 61 touchdown passes from the previous two seasons. Another key component from the Lee County squad that will be missed is kicker Austin Beaver. The three-year starter will be kicking for West Georgia University. Offensive lineman Parker Rogers will also be missed.
Look for Fabrizio to do what he does best: prepare his squad to compete for a region championship and beyond. He’ll find another quarterback to fill the shoes of Toole, another trait of Fabrizio. I see the Trojans getting back to the state title game in 2020.
Serving the Southwest Georgia area with Expertise, Integrity and Experience 601 N Slappey Blvd. Albany, GA 31701 Phone: (229) 436-8811 | Fax: (229) 436-8817
www.cbwaldenandkirkland.com 46 | itgnext.com
YOUR CAR, YOUR WAY
The Valdosta Toyota FastPass makes the experience easy, providing you the convenience, transparency, speed, & savings that you have come to expect with online shopping. The Valdosta Toyota Advantage makes the decision easy, adding thousands of dollars of value - at no extra cost - with the purchase of your next vehicle, only at Valdosta Toyota. ValdostaToyota.com | 2980 James Circle, Valdosta, GA 31601 | (229) 247-1920 48 | itgnext.com
OFFENSIVE TACKLE | CAMDEN COUNTY
TOP OFFERS COMMITTED
MICAH MORRIS
ITG Next | 49
2019 STATS overall record 3
Wins
7
183
Losses Points Scored
274
Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
4
SEPT Veterans
11
SEPT
@ Peach County
17
SEPT
@ Howard
Head Coach: Chad Alligood
1st Year Head Coach
25
SEPT
Warner Robins
2
OCT
@ Richmond Hill
9
OCT
Colquitt County
23
OCT Luella
30
OCT
@ Valdosta
6
13
NOV
NOV
Lee County
@ Houston County
WHAT TO EXPECT
“We expect the new look to bring a lot of pressure,” Alligood said.
WHO’S BACK
Quarterback Mason Ford has graduated and is trying to break into the starting lineup at Kentucky State.
With a new head coach, new coordinators, and open battles for every position, there is a lot of uncertainty this year at Northside.
(WARNER ROBINS)
KEY LOSSES
REGION 1 - 6A
Technically, Northside will return six starters on defense and four on offense. But, according to Alligood, no one is guaranteed to return to their position this season. He says every position on the team is open, and everyone will start from scratch. Returning players include receivers Justin Luke, Centavious Lowe, and Jaylen Cephus. They could figure big into Alligood’s new wide open offense. Defensive back Kam Anderson also returns.
NORTHSIDE
The Eagles have enjoyed one of the longest runs of success in high school football in Georgia. That includes a string of 17 straight years of 10-win seasons and nine Final Four appearances over the last 14 seasons. Winning the state championship is the goal at the start of each regular season at Northside. But what goes up must come down, and football, like physics, is no exception. Last season was one Eagles fans, and the new head coach, simply aren’t accustomed to seeing. Chad Alligood was the offensive coordinator for the last couple of seasons under Kevin Kinsler, and he is now the head man in charge. Alligood said what happened last year had to come sooner or later. “We were on a 30-year run,” Alligood said. “Every team goes through it, and last season was our time, unfortunately.” Alligood brought in new coordinators to help fix things. Casey Vogt joins the Eagles as defensive coordinator. He arrives from Mercer University. The offense will be led by Shane Sams, who comes from Centennial High School. What should Eagles fans expect with a new offensive coordinator? “We’re going to throw the football a lot,” Alligood said. This new scheme represents a 180-degree change from the traditional run-heavy offense that Northside has used seemingly forever. Defensively, Northside will shift to a 3-4 look.
ITG Next | 51
2019 STATS overall record 10
Wins
3 Losses Points Scored
505
Head Coach: Rush Propst 1st Year HC
5
11
SEPT
SEPT
Warner Robins
@ Tift County
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson
18
SEPT
Columbia (FL)
25
SEPT
@ Colquitt County
2
OCT
Thomas County Central
9
OCT Lowndes
REGION 1 - 6A
Westside (FL)
30
OCT
Northside (Warner Robins)
6
NOV
@ Houston County
13
NOV
@ Lee County
WHO’S BACK
A lot has changed with the Valdosta Wildcat football program since last season ended with a third-round playoff loss at Richmond Hill. Former head coach Alan Rodemaker is out, and Rush Propst is the new Wildcats head coach. The former Colquitt County coach was selected from a pool of over a dozen candidates. With Propst come high expectations for the most storied high school football program in the state. Several key contributors from last year’s 10-win team return, along with numerous standout transfers from other schools who have enrolled at Valdosta in the offseason. However, that doesn’t mean these players who were starters last year will automatically assume their same positions this season. Propst said he is opening up all positions.
Returning this season are six starters from last season’s team on the offense and six on defense. On the offensive side, receiver Javonte Sherman is back, and fellow receiver Aalah Brown returns to Valdosta High after playing one season at Valwood. Joining them at the receiver position is Tajh Sanders, a standout who transferred from Colquitt County. Running back Jamad Willis is the second transfer from Colquitt County. According to Propst, quarterback Mike Miller is the lone returning signal caller from last year’s roster. He could likely face competition from incoming transfers. The offensive line returns Omari Mayeux, Will Collier, and Jaquez White. On defense, Ty’li Lewis is the third transfer from Colquitt, and he will battle for a starting job at linebacker. The competition there is tough, however, with Quay Williams transferring in from Cook and Louisville commit Jaylin Alderman secure at inside linebacker. Other backers include Jalen Merriweather and Charles Williams. There are several battles for playing time in the defensive backfield, including transfers Zay Williams (from Douglas County), and Jahmaree Council (from Liberty County). Propst said that his defense has the chance to be elite this season.
Valdosta opens the regular season on Aug. 22 versus Warner Robins.
VALDOSTA
16
OCT
WHAT TO EXPECT
“Every position on this team is open, and we will not name a starter until Sunday, August 16,” he said.
KEY LOSSES Quarterback Tate Rodemaker has left for FSU and leaves huge shoes to fill. Running backs T.J. Daily and Shavious Wright have graduated, along with slot receiver Tarrell Roberts, who signed with Missouri State University.
The Wildcats have the chance to be pretty special in 2020. If Propst can make the new faces mesh with the returning talent, this could very well be the ‘Cats best shot at a state title since the 2016 championship season, and you couldn’t ask for a better coach to take on the challenge.
We are proud to support local athletics!
3200 N Ashley St | Valdosta, GA 31602
52 | itgnext.com
Points Allowed
257
T H E BANK FOR YOU
BANK WITH THE
Local Team .
Hahira | Morven | North Valdosta | Baytree Member FDIC |
Equal Housing Lender | www.citizenscommunitybank.net
9
Game-winning drives start here. Success under the bright lights starts with hard work under the hot sun. Here is where practice, preparation and perspiration give rise to cheering fans, game winning drives and character that will last a lifetime. We are proud to support our hometown teams. 1-888-SYNOVUS | synovus.com
Synovus Bank, Member FDIC.
Residential • Commercial New Construction • Service LICENSED / BONDED / INSURED
GA Lic #CN7050 • FL Lic #CAC058168
WWW.WALLERHVAC.COM
Thomasville, GA 15 Williamsburg Ave # 25 229.225.1200
Valdosta, GA
405 N. St. Augustine Rd 229.244.1200
4
11
SEPT
SEPT
@ Johnson (Savannah)
Liberty County
18
SEPT
New Hampstead
9
25
SEPT
OCT
@ West Laurens
Richmond Hill
16
OCT
@ Glynn Academy
30
OCT
@ Statesboro
6
NOV
@ Effingham County
13
NOV Brunswick
20
NOV
South Effingham
2019 STATS overall record Wins
3
7
228
Head Coach: Kyle Adkins
Points Scored 313
Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson
WHAT TO EXPECT Bradwell Institute will look to improve on their 3-7 record from a year ago, in what was head coach Kyle Adkins’ first season. Despite having only three wins, the Tigers and Adkins were able to qualify for the state playoffs as the No. 4 seed out of Region 2-6A. Unfortunately, they made a quick exit, losing to Stephenson in the first round. Still, it’s something to build on, according to Adkins. “If the ball had bounced our way last season, I really feel like we could have been region champs,” he said. “I want to keep building and develop a winning atmosphere. Winning hasn’t been at a consistent level here, but we’re trying to hold our kids to a higher standard.”
“This is one of the best defenses I’ve been around in my 19 years of coaching.” — Kyle Adkins
WHO’S BACK Bradwell Institute will return all but one starter on defense this season, and that’s got Adkins excited. “This is one of the best defenses I’ve been around in my 19 years of coaching,” he said. Leading the way will be returning defensive ends Mikah Perry and Tyler Jones, along with linebacker Tyrone Bush and defensive back Jeremiah Johnson. A safety, Johnson is athletic and strong against the run and the pass. Another returning starter on defense will also see time on offense this season: Junior Elijah Leiataua will play his familiar position of linebacker, but will also see time at running back, according to Adkins. A defensive lineman whom Adkins called “unblockable” is back: senior Kairen Cheneau. He was the Tigers’ best defensive player last season and was named a First Team All-Region defensive lineman last year.
REGION 2 - 6A
BRADWELL INSTITUTE
Losses
54 | itgnext.com
KEY LOSSES Quarterback Dariuse Cooper graduated and is playing at West Virginia-Wesleyan, where he will be a receiver. Offensive lineman De’leon Madria is now at Savannah State. “Those two made us go,” Adkins said.
In a tough region, look for Bradwell Institute to hold their own and once again qualify for the playoffs as the No. 4 seed. Look for the Tigers to finish 6-4, with their defense giving them a chance in every contest.
4
SEPT
@ Windsor Forest
11
SEPT
McIntosh County Academy
18
SEPT Beach
24
SEPT
@ New Hampstead
WHAT TO EXPECT
16
23
OCT
Glynn Academy
@ South Effingham
30
OCT
OCT
@ Richmond Hill
Statesboro
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Bradwell Institute
Effingham County
“We haven’t beat Glynn Academy in six years. Quite frankly, that’s a hurdle we have to get over.” — Sean Pender
WHO’S BACK Big 6-foot-6, 330-pound Kanaya Charlton will return to anchor the O-line. Linemate Caleb Cook also returns. Both are being heavily recruited.
Head Coach: Sean Pender
KEY LOSSES Quarterback Anthony Mountain, center Xavier Ramsey, and First Team All-Region receiver Che Foy are among the key losses for Brunswick.
12-2. Despite some key losses, this team is loaded. Look for Brunswick to make a deep run in the playoffs. They have championship potential.
2019 STATS
Wins
6
295
Losses Points Scored
Points Allowed
283 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson
REGION 2 - 6A
overall record 6
BRUNSWICK
Entering his fourth season as head coach of the Brunswick Pirates, Sean Pender is sounding like a coach that feels pretty confident that his team is ready to take a big step forward in 2020. “We have a team that can compete for the region championship this season,” Pender said. “Last season was a rebuilding year for us, but we’ve got several starters and key contributors back this year, so I think we’re ready to make some noise.” Pender does concede that if his team is to contend for the region title, they must get through one big obstacle: “We haven’t beat Glynn Academy in six years. Quite frankly, that’s a hurdle we have to get over.” Even if last season was truly a rebuilding season in Pender’s eyes, it also had a lot of promise for Brunswick. The Pirates finished 6-6 and 2-2 in region play, good enough for the No. 3 seed and a trip to the playoffs, where they advanced to the second round. Looking ahead, the Pirates have seven starters returning on offense and seven on defense, and that includes several players who are getting a lot of attention from college recruiters. Can they transfer that potential to wins this season? Because of the personnel Pender will have, he’ll change his defensive scheme from the 4-3 that the Pirates have run under Pender to a 3-4 this season. One reason for the change is to put an additional body off the line to help compensate for the loss of seven experienced players in the defensive backfield.
9
OCT
CHECKING is always FREE NEW MEMBERS could WIN
$250!
Brunswick - 4401 Altama Ave. | St. Simons Island - 95 Cinema Way FiveStarCU.com | 888-619-1711
ITG Next | 55
2019 STATS overall record Wins
Head Coach: Rocky Hildago
4
SEPT
@ Islands
11
SEPT
@ Camden County
6
5
303
Points Scored
Losses
Points Allowed
276 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson
18
SEPT
@ WinderBarrow
2
OCT
@ Coffee
9
OCT
@ Brunswick
16
23
OCT
OCT
Bradwell Institute
@ South Effingham
30
OCT
Effingham County
6
NOV
Richmond Hill
20
NOV
@ Statesboro
“We will shoot to win the region. We’ve got the team to do it. Last season we were young in spots, but with our returning experience and talent, we’ll have a chance to go far.”
REGION 2 - 6A
GLYNN ACADEMY
— Rocky Hildago
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Rocky Hidalgo heads into his seventh season as head coach of the Red Terrors, and he should once again have Glynn Academy competing for a region title and top seed in the always competitive Region 2-6A. Hidalgo had his team within one game of the top seed last season, finishing 3-1 in region play and advancing to the state playoffs as the No. 2 seed. There, the Red Terrors breezed past Tucker 31-7 in Round 1 before losing to Dacula 42-20 in the next stage. What’s next for the Terrors? Anytime you have Hidalgo, fans of the team can expect an exciting product on the field every Friday night. Asked about his team’s chances for the upcoming season, Hidalgo cut straight to the point. “We will shoot to win the region,” he said. “We’ve got the team to do it. Last season we were young in spots, but with our returning experience and talent, we’ll have a chance to go far.”
Glynn Academy returns six starters from last season’s offense, and seven return on defense. They include starting senior quarterback T.J. Lewis, along with senior offensive linemen Nick Muchinson, Nick DeMarzo, and Clayton Ketcham. Two key skill position players are back this season in senior running back Caden Hutchinson and Jayden Drayton. On defense, Glynn Academy returns senior linebackers Myles Smith and Ryan Seay, plus cornerback Jaiden Miller.
KEY LOSSES Hidalgo pointed out four players that will be missed in 2020. They are running back Nolan Grant, safety Byron Bacon, defensive lineman James Dyal, and Jordan Swain, who played on both the offensive and defensive lines last season. He and Bacon signed with Mercer University.
Under Hidalgo, Glynn Academy has had success in each of his six seasons, making the playoffs every year. This season will be no different. Look for the Red Terrors to finish 9-3 with another deep run into the playoffs.
CHECKING is always FREE NEW MEMBERS could WIN
$250!
Brunswick - 4401 Altama Ave. | St. Simons Island - 95 Cinema Way FiveStarCU.com | 888-619-1711
56 | itgnext.com
View your points balance, clip digital coupons, check the weekly ad and score app-only Mystery Bonuses all in the palm of your hand.
Download our app
3
SEPT
@ Jenkins
11
SEPT
@ New Hampstead
18
SEPT
Wayne County
2
OCT
Northside (WR)
9
OCT
@ Bradwell Institute
16
OCT Statesboro
23
OCT
@ Effingham County
30
OCT Brunswick
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Matt LeZotte
According to head football coach Matt LeZotte, last season’s 9-4 finish was part of a “transformation in our program.” The Wildcats finished undefeated in region play, clinching the region championship and top seed headed into the Class 5A playoffs. After a 1-3 start to the season, Richmond Hill won the remaining regular season games, then reeled off three straight playoff victories, including a program-defining 16-14 victory at home over the vaunted Valdosta Wildcats in the state quarterfinals. The magical season came to an end a week later at the hands of Allatoona in a 17-14 overtime thriller. Despite the great season, and the transformation that LeZotte spoke of, the head coach admitted his team must still fight hard if they’re to keep winning. “Being undersized and under skilled, we must be very good at the small things in order for us to stay successful, and our players have bought into that,” LeZotte said. “The way we prepare our guys as a coaching staff this offseason allows for a high level of planning that will ensure our players are ready to go this season.” That preparation and the return of several key contributors from last year could mean another big season for Richmond Hill.
6
NOV
@ Glynn Academy
13
NOV
South Effingham
The way we prepare our guys as a coaching staff this offseason allows for a high level of planning that will ensure our players are ready to go this season.” — Matt LeZotte
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES Running back Jalen Rouse will not return. Rouse was one of the top running backs in all of 6A last season.
There’s no stopping Richmond Hill, as they repeat as region champions and advance deep in the playoffs. Look for a 10-3 season.
REGION 2 - 6A
RICHMOND HILL
The Wildcats return a ton of top talent, including Nathan Vickers at defensive end. He is the reigning Region 2-6A Defensive Player of the Year and an All-State selection. His counterpart, defensive end Shaquan Brooks, also returns, as do linebacker John Mastrorilli and outside linebacker Greggory Freightman. Quarterback Tyler Coleman, running back Ashaud Roberson, wide receivers Christian Boggs and Isaiah Allen, and athletes Jordan Clark and Kenyan Hunter are all back.
58 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins 402 221 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Micheal W. Brinson
4 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
5
SEPT
Wayne County
18
SEPT
@ Swainsboro
25
2
SEPT
Houston County
OCT Jenkins
16
23
OCT
OCT
@ Richmond Hill
@ Brunswick
30
6
OCT
NOV
Bradwell Institute
@ South Effingham
13
20
NOV
NOV
Effingham County
Glynn Academy
2019 STATS overall record Wins
5
5
206 184
Losses Points Scored
Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of statesboroathletics.com
Head Coach: Jeff Kaiser
WHAT TO EXPECT The Blue Devils are fighting their way back to respectability under fourth-year head coach Jeff Kaiser, and so far he has his team on track to do good things. Since taking over in 2016, Kaiser has made his team a little better each year. The Blue Devils finished 5-5 last year, advancing to the state playoffs. Is the team ready to take that next step with a playoff victory this season? Not so fast. The 2020 season will present a whole new challenge, as Statesboro will move up one classification, jumping from Region 2-5A to Region 2-6A. South Effingham makes the jump alongside Statesboro.
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
6-4. Kaiser has done a fantastic job getting this Statesboro team back to playing winning football. 6-4 is doable as long as Kaiser can keep his guys focused this year.
“Baby steps. If that’s what it takes to measure our progress, I’ll be OK with that.” — Jeff Kaiser
REGION 2 - 6A
Two-time All-Region running back Jaylin Roberson leaves a huge void. Grace will have to step up and fill his shoes this year. Roberson is off to Kansas, where he’ll attend and play for Independent Community College. Corey McCullough, Xavier Lee, and Brendan Jackson are three playmakers that coach Kaiser admitted will be missed. He expects his Blue Devils to keep improving, and if that means just one more victory, then so be it. “I’ll take it,” he said. “Baby steps. If that’s what it takes to measure our progress, I’ll be OK with that.”
STATESBORO
Defensively, there are some good reinforcements coming back this year, including three-year starter Dake Williams, an All-Region selection last season. Senior free safety Hunter Saussy will also be back. Saussy was an All-Region selection, also. Joining Saussy in the defensive backfield is senior cornerback Gabe Idowu. On offense, Statesboro will have a unique situation with not just one but two returning quarterbacks with playing experience. According to their head coach, both J.D. Kaiser and Ames Rackleff are athletic and versatile, so much so that they could also see time on defense this season. Senior running back Aundrell Grace will be back and, according to coach Kaiser, will be “a big-time contributor to our team this year.” Senior slot receiver Will Yawn is also back.
ITG Next | 59
11
SEPT
@ North Augusta (SC)
18
SEPT
@ Greenbrier
25
SEPT
Effingham County
2
OCT
@ Morgan County
9
23
OCT
OCT
Monroe Area
Heritage (Conyers)
30
OCT Evans
6
NOV
@ Alcovy
13
NOV
@ Grovetown
20
NOV
Rockdale County
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins 261
Head Coach: Steve Hibbitts
147
3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of lakesidehs.ccboe.net
The Panthers of head coach Steve Hibbitts will remain in Region 3-6A after the most recent realignment plan. Rockdale County will join the region, dropping down a classification from last year, while region foe Grovetown will leave for Class 5A. How that affects the Panthers remains to be seen. Lakeside-Evans has been to the postseason every year since the region was established in 2016, but their playoff run has been short-lived, including last season’s first-round loss at Valdosta. Looking to this season, the Panthers will have a few key pieces returning, while losing one really big piece of their offense. Hibbitts, starting his seventh season as the head coach, said his team will have five starters returning from both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.
WHO’S BACK Senior running back Evan Hutchinson, along with senior wide receiver Zalon Hawes, will return to lead the Lakeside Evans offense this season. They’ll also welcome back lineman Matthew Cardullo. According to Hibbitts, they expect to use him on both the offensive and defensive line. The Panthers will welcome back the majority of their starting defensive secondary with cornerback Carlton Carter, safety Devin Gardner, and cornerback Tyrone Manning all returning.
KEY LOSSES
REGION 3 - 6A
LAKESIDE (EVANS)
WHAT TO EXPECT
60 | itgnext.com
Last season’s starting quarterback, Jaden Taylor, will be sorely missed. Taylor passed for over 1,500 yards, ran for 501 yards, and accounted for 26 touchdowns last year. Taylor was recognized as the Region 3-6A Player of the Year in 2019. Also lost to graduation were linebackers John Arneman and Kyler Worthington, offensive guard Zach Savage, and receiver Andrew May.
Can Lakeside Evans make it to the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season? The key is finding a replacement for quarterback Taylor. There are some senior leaders who’ll have to step it up this season, and if Hibbits can count on those guys, Lakeside Evans will be in good shape. I’m looking for the Panthers to get back to the playoffs once again this year.
4
SEPT
@ North Cobb
11
SEPT
@ Colquitt County
17
2
SEPT
OCT
Creekside
Harrison
9
16
OCT
OCT
@ Shiloh
@ Hughes
23
6
OCT
NOV
North Atlanta
Morrow
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Talking about Westlake is much different than the year before. The Lions have six players ranked in the top 59 of the 247Sports recruiting class for the state of Georgia, and three of those players didn’t even play for the team last season. It’s a loaded Westlake roster, and they’re looking to cause some damage at the 6A level this season. Last year in 7A, the Lions had a solid season that involved a region championship and a first-round playoff exit. The defense was stout, as they should be yet again. They gave up only 23.45 points per game, and that number improved over the season and into region play. Coming down from the highest classification, Westlake is a heavy favorite to take home the regional title this year in Region 4 and possibly bring together all of this talent for a state championship in 2020.
Like I said before, Westlake currently has six players ranked in the top 59. The three returning players are Leo Blackburn, Jakiah Leftwich, and Demarko Williams. Blackburn was the leading receiver at the tight end position last season and is poised for another big year as a senior. Leftwich was the starting tackle, and Williams was another great cornerback that the Lions had on the roster. They’re paired with some new faces. Dacari Collins, Jaquez Smith, and Nathaniel Wiggins make one of the top receiving corps in the state of Georgia for 2020, and all have transferred in for a shot at a state title. Collins and Smith rank in the top 17 players in the state, while Wiggins is a two-way stud who will also start at cornerback next season with Williams. This is a special group of players expected to do big things for Westlake. Along with all of these players at skill positions, rising sophomore R.J. Johnson returns at quarterback. He was rated as one of the best quarterbacks in the state for the class of 2023 and now has a lot of talent to throw to.
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Tucker
Lovejoy
Head Coach: Bobby May
KEY LOSSES Chase Lloyd and Micah Robinson were a great cornerback tandem for the Lions, but Lloyd is now signed with Vanderbilt and Robinson with Furman. The Lions did a great job hitting the transfer market to pick up the pieces, though.
2019 STATS
Wins
298 258 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Westlake Football via Twitter
5
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
REGION 4 - 6A
overall record 6
WESTLAKE
8-2. Some tough games on the schedule will prevent Westlake from running the table, but they should have no problem winning region and competing for a state championship.
ITG Next | 61
4
11
18
2
9
SEPT
SEPT
SEPT
OCT
OCT
Cedartown
Newnan
Jonesboro
Dalton
Rome
16
OCT
@ South Paulding
23
OCT
Paulding County
WHAT TO EXPECT
13
NOV
@ East Paulding
@ Alexander
20
NOV
Douglas County
WHO’S BACK
Twelve games. Twelve wins. In 2019 the Carrollton Trojans were looking good as they entered the quarterfinals of the 5A state playoffs. They were a boa constrictor on defense, finishing the year with 75 sacks and sucking the life out of opposing offenses. On offense, they were a pack of wolves. Every player on the field scored and was a playmaker. Trojans head coach Sean Calhoun was proud of what they accomplished. “Our game against Buford in the quarterfinals could’ve easily been the state championship,” Calhoun said. “It was two really good teams. We went undefeated in the regular season, which was awesome. We had significant progress this year.” Now they make the step up to 6A, and the goal is for the Trojans to get over that quarterfinals hump. Four years in a row now they’ve reached the final eight teams in the playoffs, only to fall short. With the amount of talent in the Trojans camp, the future’s looking bright. They have a lot of talent to make the leap to the next level and compete for a state championship once again in 2020.
“Our seniors just chose our team motto this year, which is ‘fight.’ I’m looking for our first group to get over that quarterfinal hump, and I think this team is going to be fighters and accomplish just that.” — Sean Calhoun
REGION 5 - 6A
CARROLLTON
Head Coach: Sean Calhoun
6
NOV
The Trojans are loaded for the 2020 season. It starts on defense, with linebackers Chaz Chambliss and transfer Chief Borders. They’re both rated in the top 25 players in the state and make one of the best linebacker duos in the state. They’re paired with defensive end Khristian Zachary, who stands out on the field and should be a major contributor as well. “Our expectation is to just keep this momentum going,” Calhoun said. “I want our confidence and work ethic to continue. We need to replace some great leadership last year, but we have a lot of talent.”
KEY LOSSES Two losses on the offensive side of the ball are the top two rushers on the Trojans offense. Brandon Marenco and Mecose Todd finished with 1,606 yards and 20 touchdowns on the ground combined. The biggest loss for Carrollton is on defense with linebacker Kevin Swint. Swint was a four-star inside linebacker who signed to play for the Clemson Tigers next season. They also lose one of the best quarterbacks in the state. M.J. Morris was a dynamic dual-threat talent for the Trojans as a sophomore last season and has since transfered. He had 2,186 yards and 20 touchdowns through the air last season.
9-1. This team has a lot of talent. They should be a contender for state once again. 2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins 485 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Eric Vinson
183
1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms! 62 | itgnext.com
Listen at: itgnext.com/podcast
ITG Next | 63
4
SEPT Calhoun
11
SEPT
@ Ridgeland
2
OCT
@ Carrollton
9
OCT
@ South Paulding
16
OCT Rome
23
OCT
@ Alexander
6
13
NOV
NOV
Douglas County
Paulding County
20
NOV
@ East Paulding
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Matt Land
The Catamounts are still just four years removed from a 13-1 semifinal finish in 2016 that was one of their best seasons to date. This team overall is always solid and in the conversation as they were last season, finishing 7-4 after a first-round playoff exit after losing to Dacula in the semifinals. Going into 2020, expect more of the same from Dalton. They have only had one losing season in over 60 years, and I don’t expect that to change much in the upcoming season. They remain in 6A, but they change to Region 5, which has a lot of changes. Last season, Dalton had the top two teams in the classification in their region: state champion Harrison and runners-up Allatoona. This year they go up against Rome and Carrollton, two of the top five teams in 5A last season who moved up one classification. The Catamounts have some questions, but history says they’ll be just fine.
WHO’S BACK Mauricio Quintero was a solid linebacker and safety for the Catamounts last season, finishing with 82 tackles and two sacks. Maurice Howard will take up a lot of the workload on offense this next season. Howard was the backup running back in a limited role, but averaged 10.4 yards per carry and had six touchdowns on just 39 carries. He’ll be expected to make a big leap forward.
KEY LOSSES Unfortunately, the Catamounts do lose their top three players, led by superstar high school running back Jahmyr Gibbs. He was above and beyond the best player on the team, finishing with 2,554 yards rushing and 40 touchdowns, which was one of the best rushing seasons in the history of Georgia high school football. He was ranked in the top 75 players in the country for his effort and finished the season as the 6A Offensive Player of the Year for good measure. Dalton’s other players who were named First Team All-Region, offensive lineman Osbaldo Beltran and defensive lineman Christian Lama, also graduated. Four of the top five leading tacklers at Dalton all graduated as well.
REGION 5 - 6A
DALTON
5-5. Dalton should sneak into the playoffs, but difficult games against Rome, Carrollton, Calhoun, and Douglas County may make it tough to put together another seven-win season. 2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins 446 192
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Dalton Public Schools via Facebook
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms! 64 | itgnext.com
4
SEPT Rockmart
18
SEPT
@ Cherokee
25
SEPT
@ Collins Hill
2
OCT
South Paulding
9
OCT
@ Carrollton
16
OCT
@ Dalton
23
OCT
East Paulding
6
NOV Alexander
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Douglas County
Paulding County
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins 457 153
3
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Rome Wolves Gameday via Twitter
Head Coach: John Reid
WHAT TO EXPECT It was a solid season for the Wolves in 2019. That said, solid is a bit of a disappointment by Rome’s standards. After two state championships and a semifinals appearance from the 2016-2018 seasons, they lost in the second round of the 5A tournament to state runner-up Warner Robins 25-17. The Wolves were a great team on the ground, rushing for 47 touchdowns on the season, while also being opportunistic on defense. They finished the season with 13 interceptions and four fumble recoveries in 12 games. But in 2020, there are probably more questions at Rome than in the last four seasons. A lot of senior leadership has left the roster from 2019, and the team makes the move up to 6A. This season will be a test of the institution Rome has built. Can this team continue to be a dominant program?
WHO’S BACK The Wolves rushed for 3,069 yards last season and nearly half of that was by Ahijah Blackwell, the senior running back who finished the season with 1,568 yards and 22 touchdowns. He was the top of a three running back tandem and averaged nearly 8 yards per carry last season. Along with Blackwell, guard Quantavious Leslie graduates on to Western Kentucky after being one of the top offensive linemen for Rome last season. The defense also suffers a major hit in 2020. Rayquan Jones was the top defensive tackle on the team and led with four sacks. Along with Jones, the top three leading tacklers for the Wolves, Nick Burge, Simon Nguyen, and Tim Jones, were all seniors last season. Tim Jones also led the team with four interceptions. This was a deep and talented senior class that has moved on.
7-3. This will be a solid Rome team once again. But I don’t see them improving due to the difficult schedule and step up to 6A.
ROME
There’s still some solid pieces in this lineup. E.J. Burkes rushed for 759 yards and 17 touchdowns last season as the second running back in the Rome system. Quarterback Caleb Ellard was smart and efficient when needed at quarterback. He finished with nine touchdowns and zero interceptions, along with 393 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground. On defense, linebacker Bryant Wilkinson leads the way. He finished with 51 tackles and three sacks last season and will need to step up in the void of seniors who have since graduated.
REGION 5 - 6A
KEY LOSSES
ITG Next | 65
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins
4
389
Head Coach: Jason Nash
4
SEPT
@ Hiram
11
SEPT
North Paulding
Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of paulding.k12.ga.us/
25
SEPT
Chapel Hill
2
OCT @ Rome
9
16
OCT
OCT
Dalton
Carrollton
After just five wins over their previous three seasons combined, the Spartans finally got a taste of winning football last season, and they hope to keep the good times rolling with new coach Jason Nash at the helm. Nash takes over for Jason Thompson, who left to take the job at Central Gwinnett. Nash is no stranger to the program, however, having served as the team’s defensive coordinator last season. He’ll have the responsibility of building on last year’s 9-3 finish and second-round playoff appearance. Look for the Spartans to capitalize on senior leadership at key positions to give South Paulding a shot at another winning season.
KEY LOSSES
REGION 5 - 6A
SOUTH PAULDING
Points Scored
325
23
OCT
@ Douglas County
WHAT TO EXPECT
66 | itgnext.com
Losses
Nash will miss almost all of his skill players on offense. Quarterback Austin Seymour, who threw for 3,100 yards, has left, as has wide receiver Parker Self, who has taken his talents to FSU. Running backs Thomas Marshall and Julian Berris have graduated. The defense will be without three starters from last year: defensive end Curtis Brown, cornerback Jake Barnett, and linebacker Jackson Evans.
6
NOV
@ Paulding County
13
20
NOV
East Paulding
NOV
@ Alexander
WHO’S BACK Offensively, South Paulding will have seven returning starters, including their entire offensive line, one of whom is sophomore Madden Sanker, a 6-foot-5, 270-pound offensive tackle. Sanker was named Second Team MaxPreps All-American last season. Joining him will be senior Jack Eason at the other offensive tackle position. Starters Dylon Ward and Shawn Derrick Smith Jr. each return at guard. Heavily recruited tight end Miles Campbell is back, along with athlete Nick Acry and sophomore Kasen Weisman. Defensively, Nash will see seven starters return from the unit he oversaw last year as the team’s defensive coordinator. That includes C.J. Nunnally. He’ll line up at defensive end and linebacker this year. In the defensive backfield, Jalen Marshall and Jeremiah Austin return.
Prediction 9-3. “We hope to pick up where we left off. Last year was our first winning season in a while, and the kids liked it. Now, we’ll see if they can keep it going.” — Jason Thompson
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins
1 Tie
422
3 Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
190 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of allatoonabucs.com/football
4
SEPT
@ Harrison
11
SEPT Denmark
25
18
SEPT
@ Kennesaw Mountain
SEPT South Cobb
2
OCT
@ Osborne
9
30
6
OCT
OCT
NOV
Wheeler
Sprayberry
Kell
Head Coach: Gary Varner
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Lassiter
@ Pope
WHAT TO EXPECT Head coach Gary Varner will lead his Buccaneer football team into the upcoming season just as he has done every year since the school opened in 2008. They’re coming off the momentum of a state title game appearance, having lost to Harrison. Varner will have five starters returning on offense,and six on defense. The challenge will be to replace the entire offensive backfield, plus three key offensive linemen. But, the news isn’t all bad, as Varner likes what he sees returning with the defensive unit. “Our defense should be strong this season,” he said. He does concede that he’s not really sure about anything else. “Who knows?” he said. “It’s going to be interesting to see how we do with so much time apart from our players.” At least Varner can take comfort knowing that every one of his opponents this year is in the same boat.
Highly recruited senior Zach Jackson and junior Bennett Christian are back to lead the offense. Jackson is a tall target (6-foot-4) at receiver. He’s been offered by The Citadel, but expect more schools to come forward for his services. Tight end Christian has already received numerous offers. Both should help with the loss of other key skill positions. Also returning are senior linemen Gavin Tatum and Matthew Hess. Defensively, senior twins Hunter and Fisher Paulsen will be back. Hunter is a linebacker, while Fisher lines up at safety. Linebacker Kevin Kesser and cornerback Brett Blomquist will be back to lead an experienced defense.
Varner and the Bucs will miss some big time talent lost to graduation. Gone are quarterback Donte Marshall, tailback Alex Wilson, and receiver Asante Das. Wilson signed with Wingate University while Marshall is at Reinhardt University. The Bucs will also be forced to replace three three-year starters on the offensive line. They are linemen Nick Lundeberg, Jack Walper, and Drew Lawrence.
Varner has put a winning Buccaneer team on the field every year since the school opened up in 2008. Don’t expect them to stop this year. State championships are always in their sight, and that could be the case this year with an 8-2 regular season.
“It’s going to be interesting to see how we do with so much time apart from our players.” — Gary Varner
ALLATOONA
KEY LOSSES
REGION 6 - 6A
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 67
OUTSIDE LINEBACKER | CARROLLTON
TOP OFFERS COMMITTED
68 | itgnext.com
CHAZ CHAMBLISS
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins
2
456
Head Coach: Bryant Appling
4
SEPT Wren (SC)
11
SEPT
Clarke Central
Loss
Points Scored Points Allowed
234 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Buford Football via Twitter
18
SEPT Lithonia
2
OCT
Ridge View (SC)
9
OCT
Central Gwinnett
16
OCT
@ Habersham Central
30
OCT
@ Shiloh
6
NOV
@ Lanier
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
As one of the most successful programs of the decade, Buford comes into 2020 right where they’re used to being: defending a state championship. The Wolves have a definitive style all their own. They’re bigger and stronger than you. They pride themselves on beating you at the line of scrimmage, and they run the ball as well as any team in the state. They beat Warner Robins in the state championship, becoming the second team ever to win a championship in the first five classifications and second in all of GHSA history with 12 state championships. This season they move up again to 6A, looking to reclaim the throne yet again at an even more competitive classification. Running back Gabe Ervin will be the key for the Wolves, as the highly rated back takes over as the lead and should take on a lot of carries in this run heavy offense.
The running game remains key for the Wolves, and Gabe Ervin and Victor Venn make one of the best running back pairings in the state. Venn didn’t get a lot of touches in 2019, but when Ervin and senior Elijah Turner went down with injuries, Venn rushed for 235 yards against a talented Carrollton team. They’ll have no problem running the ball against anyone in 2020, and they should be looking at a state championship once again.
13
20
NOV
NOV
WinderBarrow
Dacula
KEY LOSSES
BUFORD
8-2. Buford faces a difficult region and a huge step up in competition, but should have no problem competing for a region championship.
REGION 8 - 6A
Nine players signed college scholarships for Buford in 2019, led by offensive lineman Seth McLaughlin, who signed at Alabama, and cornerback Jalen Huff, who is at nearby Georgia Tech. Along with Griffin Scroggs, who transferred to Grayson, Buford have to replace 10 of their 22 starters in 2020.
ITG Next | 69
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins
1 Loss
538
Head Coach: Clint Jenkins
3
11
SEPT
SEPT
Archer
Stephenson
Points Scored
217
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of daculaathletics.com
18
SEPT @ Mill Creek
2
OCT
@ Mountain View
9
OCT
@ Lanier
16
OCT
WinderBarrow
23
OCT
Habersham Central
6
NOV Shiloh
13
NOV
@ Central Gwinnett
20
NOV Buford
WHAT TO EXPECT Not much could have gone better for Dacula. They steamrolled through their first 13 games and only had two games finish in single digits. After dismantling Lee County in the quarterfinals 56-21, the Falcons looked like a real championship team. They then ran into a buzzsaw of a team in the semifinals. Harrison knocked them off 38-7. It was a disappointing end to the season for Dacula. For 2020, this team loses eight All-Region players and faces some new competition in the region. Dacula welcomes crosstown rival Buford into their region in 6A along with long-time competitor Lanier, making this one of the deepest regions. The Falcons shouldn’t be underestimated; they still boast a ton of talent returning and should be back in the playoffs.
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
REGION 8 -7A
DACULA
Kaleb Edwards is the top returning player for the Falcons. He did just about everything for Dacula, amassing over 1,700 yards on offense and 18 touchdowns. He had over 1,100 yards rushing, over 500 yards receiving, and even 47 yards passing. Defensively, he was the top player in the secondary, with 86 tackles and four interceptions. He has been attracting interest from some of the best schools in the country and will surely be a focal point for the Falcons again. Kyle Efford is also one of the top players for the Falcons as a two-way star. He was a beast at linebacker and running back last season, and he and Edwards will be key to the ground game for Dacula. Another linebacker in T.J. Young also returns and has a Second Team All-Region finish.
70 | itgnext.com
Eight All-Region players for Dacula have all graduated. Jarrett Jenkins was the top quarterback in the region last season; he and a loaded offensive line, led by All-State player Riley Adcock, will need to be replaced. Adcock had 85 pancake blocks on the season. Konata Mumpfield is a star wide receiver and defensive back who has signed to play with Akron. He finished with 713 yards and 12 touchdowns last season.
7-3. This may be the year Dacula relinquishes their stranglehold on this region with Buford and Lanier boasting strong rosters again. They still make the playoffs and prove a competitive team.
Has the South Taken Over College Football for Good? Written by: Kyle Grondin
The NFL Draft saw a record 15 SEC players taken in the first round, including a record six in the top 10. With the dominance on the field and in the draft, has the South taken over college football for good? We’ve heard for years that football is just different in the South. Florida, Texas, and Georgia all help produce the majority of the talent that plays on Saturdays and Sundays in college and NFL football. The NFL Draft showed that once again. It started with the Southeastern Conference, which set a record for the NFL Draft with six players taken in the first 10 picks, along with a record total of 15 SEC players taken in the first round. It was just a further display of the dominance of the conference. In fact, in terms of the NFL Draft, if you count southern powerhouse Clemson, southern schools accounted for about 53 percent of first round picks of the draft in 2020. In 2006, USC was regarded as the best college football team of all time, playing Vince Young and a powerhouse at Texas for a third straight championship. It was regarded as the greatest college football game of all time, and that game also featured three top 10 picks and two Heisman Trophy winners. It wasn’t crazy to say that the PAC 10 (before they changed to the PAC 12) and BIG 12 were the top of the college football world. Then, Urban Meyer took over at Florida, and he led a powerhouse with the Gators. That was shortly followed by Nick Saban taking over at Alabama, the Cam Newton season at Auburn, Jameis Winston and Florida State, then the Dabo Swinney era at Clemson, which turned the Tigers into a true blue blood program. Five of the last 10 Heisman Trophy winners have come from southern universities, and an absurd 13 of the last 14 National Champions have come from southern universities in the SEC, Clemson, and Florida State. It wasn’t long ago that powerhouses such as USC were competing for every postseason award and Oklahoma was playing in championship games, but they have since been frozen out by the best of the best in the South. Before, there was parity in the college football landscape. Now, are the teams in the BIG 12, BIG 10, and PAC 12 being frozen out? Can they catch up to some of the football factories in the SEC and at Clemson? Oregon has consistently stayed competitive, and Ohio State did win a championship in 2013, but sometimes it feels like even these programs can’t handle the strength of southern football. If you had to guess which one school outside the SEC would ever recover to reach the level of some of the powers in the SEC and ACC, you would guess Texas, which has an indispensable amount of resources and their own personal television network. But the inconsistency shown with the Longhorns leads me to believe that they are still a few years away from competing for National Championships and producing consistent world class talent. Maybe more teams will grow and compete, but the proof is in the pudding, and the South continues to reign supreme.
ITG Next | 71
Written by: Kyle Grondin
PASSING LEADERS
RUSHING LEADERS JC French
Justice Haynes
Blessed Trinity 2,902 YDS
Blessed Trinity 1,754 YDS
Jalen Addie
Jahlen Rutherford
Warner Robins 2,297 YDS
Warner Robins 1,290 YDS
Santino Gaudreau North Springs 1,647 YDS
Tanner Greene Loganville 1,568 YDS
Andrew Carner Jones Co. 1,133 YDS
Lebron Fields Veterans 1,119 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH Blessed Trinity @ Cartersville
Coffee @ Warner Robins
Ware Co. @ Wayne Co.
Region 7 is sure to be a difficult one, and that’s due to three of the most successful teams of the decade. Blessed Trinity has won three straight state championship and have a quarterback who should make them even more explosive. Cartersville always has as much talent as anyone. This is the must-see game of the classification.
Speaking of difficult regions, Region 1 features all playoff teams, including the three-time region runner-up in Warner Robins. All five of these teams are state champion caliber, and Coffee and Warner Robins may be the top two. Two physical defenses make this game a must-watch.
I’m sticking to this region for the final game with Ware County and Wayne County. Thomas Castellanos leads the Gator offense against Kaliz Hadley and the big Yellow Jackets offensive line. This game will be fun, as one of these five teams will surely be disappointed to not make the playoffs this season.
72 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES Reclassification brings its movers and shakers to the 5A classification. With one state champion moving up, another enters. Buford moves up to Class 6A, while 4A state champion Blessed Trinity moves up to 5A. The rearrangement makes Region 1 and region 7 two of the deepest, most competitive regions in all of Georgia high school football.
TACKLE LEADERS
INTERCEPTION LEADERS
Ahmad Walker
Jeremiah Rowe
Warner Robins 127 TKS
Jackson (Atlanta) 5
Ryan Dupont
JiTavius Whipple
Blessed Trinity 115 TKS
Jones Co. 5
Beau Shugarts
Wilkes Riggins
Greenbrier 114 TKS
Greenbrier 4
Errington Truesdell
Legend Doggett
Woodward Academy 95 TKS
Ola 4
TOP 10 RANKINGS 5A
1 Blessed Trinity
6 Clarke Central
2
3
Warner Robins
Ware Co.
Calhoun
Coffee
9
8
7
5
4
Wayne Co.
Cartersville
10 Jones Co.
Woodward Academy
ITG Next | 73
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins
4
Points Scored
430
Head Coach: Robby Pruitt
4
11
SEPT
SEPT
Godby (FL)
Drew
Losses
Points Allowed
201 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Micki K Photography
18
SEPT Salem
25
SEPT
@ Tift County
2
OCT
Glynn Academy
9
OCT
@ Camden County
23
OCT
@ Ware County
30
OCT
Wayne County
6
NOV Veterans
13
NOV
@ Warner Robins
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Robbie Pruitt returns as the Trojans head coach this year. Since his arrival in Douglas, he has put Coffee in a position for a championship in each of the past six seasons, as they advanced to the third round of the Class 6A playoffs during this period. That includes the 2017 state championship game versus region foe Lee County, where Pruitt’s Trojans lost in overtime 28-21. Last year, Coffee once again made a deep run into the playoffs, losing to Allatoona in the third round. The Trojans finished 9-4 overall and 2-2 in region play. Looking ahead, Coffee returns seven starters on offense and five on defense. Jeff Hammond is an experienced play caller who will assume the role of offensive coordinator. Due to realignment, Coffee will move down one notch in classification from 6A to 5A.
Quarterback A.J. Wilkerson is back and should be the starter. He battled injuries last season, but should be healthy and ready to go. “He is a very athletic player,” Pruitt said. But, Pruitt said Coffee could go with multiple signal callers at times this year, with juniors Zay Simpson and Justin Swords possibly seeing time at quarterback. Starting running backs A.J. Franklin and Maurice Turner both return. The defensive backfield will have returning experience with safety Aries McRae and starting corners Brian Colbert and Tavarius Jackson. Juniors Anthony Gaskin and Brandon High also return at linebacker to stuff the run up the middle.
REGION 1 - 5A
COFFEE
KEY LOSSES Pruitt said his team will really miss last season’s starting running back Jamal Paulk. “He was a big weapon for us last year,” Pruitt said. “He will be missed, for sure.” Coffee will also be without starting defensive linemen Cameron Arvidson and Malichi Williamson.
Despite being fairly young last season, Coffee was in the mix. With those contributors a year older and the Trojans moving down a classification, look for Coffee to keep their streak of deep playoff runs intact. With their starting running backs, wide outs, tight ends, and quarterback all returning, Hammond should have plenty of weapons to work with in his offense. Coffee will be a legitimate contender for a state championship this season. They’ll finish 13-2 with a trip to the state title game.
woodyfolsomcdjrofdouglas.com 1510 Peterson Ave S Douglas, GA 31535
74 | itgnext.com
ITG Next | 75
4
SEPT
Northside (Warner Robins)
11
SEPT
West Laurens
18
SEPT
Jones County
25
SEPT @ Perry
9
OCT
@ Oconee County
16
OCT
Houston County
23
6
OCT
NOV
Wayne County
@ Coffee
13
NOV
@ Ware County
20
NOV
Warner Robins
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins 269
Head Coach: Milan Turner
201
3
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
WHAT TO EXPECT Veterans is enjoying back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time in school history. Last season also saw the team win nine games for the first time. That comes after an 8-3 season just two years ago. The man responsible for bringing this success to the middle Georgia school is Milan Turner, who will begin his third season as the Veterans head football coach. With many of the starters and key contributors back this year, things could be looking up once again for Turner and his Warhawks. He’ll have everyone back on offense except his starting tight end and H-back from a year ago. Defensively, Veterans will be solid with the entire secondary returning. If there is any reason for concern for Veterans, it may be the fact that their region became slightly better with the addition of Wayne County, Ware County, and Coffee. Plus, there’s the schedule that, according to Turner, is going to be stacked with playoff teams from last season, and that’s just the non-region opponents. Turner said Veterans won’t sneak up on anyone this season. “After the last two years of success, things are going to be a lot tougher this year,” Turner said. “We’re in a tougher region (Veterans is still in Region 1-5A, but the region will have a new look with different teams added this offseason.), and our schedule will be very tough. But this is what happens when you start winning, so I’ll take it. I like our team a lot.”
Veterans will look to play quarterbacks Blake Ethridge and Kedric Smith, with Smith lining up in wildcat and run pass option schemes. Smith is also the team’s starting safety, so he’ll stay on the field quite a lot. Whoever is lined up at quarterback, they’ll have returning wideouts Justin McCardy and Nate Boehm to throw to. Defensively, I mentioned earlier that Veterans will have its returning secondary to lean on, and that includes Smith and his twin brother Kameron, who lines up at cornerback. At the other corner will be Jaylin Watson, while Daniel Ekwese will join Smith at the other safety spot.
REGION 1 -5A
VETERANS
WHO’S BACK
76 | itgnext.com
KEY LOSSES Veterans will be without their three interior defensive linemen from a year ago. Jaylon Shine, Tylon Chambers, and Hyson Holiday have all graduated, and according to Turner, their loss will be felt on both sides of the ball, as all three also played tight end and/or H-back at times on offense last season. Also gone is running back Julian Barnes.
Turner is a good fit at Veterans, and with so much returning talent, look for yet another playoff season. The Warhawks will finish 9-5 with a deep postseason run.
As Georgia’s Premier Academic Builder, Parrish Construction Group is proud to support Georgia High School Athletics. Best of luck to all High School Athletes during the 2019 Football Season.
ITG Next | 77
DEFENSIVE BACK | COFFEE
TOP OFFERS
78 | itgnext.com
ARIES MCRAE
STOP DREAMING
Start Living
LOOKING TO BUY LAND OR BUILD A HOME? Feel secure in your fnancing decision by letting the local land specialists at AgSouth help make your dreams of country living happen.
SERVING SOUTHEAST GEORGIA FROM: BAXLEY 912.367.7006
STATESBORO 912.764.9091
BLACKSHEAR 912.449.4701
SYLVANIA 912.564.2468
DOUGLAS 912.384.3200
VIDALIA 912.537.4135
JESUP 912.530.7777
844.AGSOUTH | AgSouthFC.com LOANS FOR L AND, FARMS AND HOMES
NMLS# 619788
ITG Next | 79
5 Sleepers to Watch in 2020 Written by: Kyle Grondin
We all love a Cinderella story. With each year comes the hype and glory of some of the top teams and top recruits in the state of Georgia. We all notice the powerhouse programs like Lowndes, Grayson, and more, but who is falling under the radar? A lot of teams go unnoticed for a variety of reasons, whether it is the strength of other teams, new coaches, or a history that is unfairly criticizing a program. Any team can be a state champion, and here are the teams that I think will surprise some people in 2020.
1. Westlake
2. Collins Hill
3. Turner County
4. Ware County
5. Benedictine
A team like Grayson is getting recognition for having one of the most loaded rosters in the state, ranking as high as No. 9 in MaxPreps' preseason rankings. And rightfully so, as the Rams have seven players ranked in the top 115 in the state, according to 247Sports. They’re the favorites to win the 2020 state championship in 7A for a reason. But there’s a team in 6A who is just as talented. They have seven players ranked in 247Sports' top 89 in the state. And that is the Lions of Westlake High School. This is a team that now has the best receiving core in the state, plus tight end Leo Blackburn. They have really good players at every position. The knock on Westlake was their 6-5 record last season. But moving down to 6A, and the improvement of quarterback R.J. Johnson should put this team near the top of the classification. He was good last season as a freshman, but could solidify himself as a big time prospect in the state of Georgia next season.
Simply put, rising junior Sam Horn is the best quarterback in the state that nobody is talking about. He’s a dynamic pocket passer who has been offered by 12 Division I schools. He finished last season with over 2,400 yards passing and 24 touchdowns. He also brought back two of his best receivers. Fellow junior Travis Hunter is one of the most skilled players in the state of Georgia. He is a great athlete who is already committed to Florida State and is a two-way star for the Eagles. They lose a few seniors, but the top end skill of this team stands out and could make a jump.
I’m in love with Turner County. New head coach Kevious Johnson comes over after serving as offensive coordinator at Coffee High School, and this rushing attack could perfectly fit his game plan. The Rebels bring back two All-Region offensive linemen in Chris Clark and Zach Brown, and they have two skill position players that can match up with anyone in the classification. Keonvay Clark is the team’s go-to receiver and is the top receiver in the class. He is long and fast and finished with six total touchdowns last season. Along with Clark is running back Elijah Stephens. The shifty running back had 1,135 yards and 15 touchdowns last season and in this offense should have even greater production. Why isn’t Turner County talked about more? Well, they have the toughest region in football. Reigning state champion Irwin County is there, along with Clinch County, who has three state championships in the last five years. Along with those two, the region also welcomes Brooks County, who reached the state championship in 2A last season. This region is a gauntlet, but Turner County is capable of pulling off an upset or two.
Speaking of difficult regions, Region 1-5A is the high school football equivalent of the Group of Death for any soccer fans. All five teams are legitimate playoff teams in Coffee, Veterans, Ware County, Warner Robins, and Wayne County. Many think Warner Robins, the three-time state runner-up for the classification, is the team to beat this season. But every team is thinking about the state championship. In the AJC’s Class 5A blog, they published an articel called the “Premature Pre-Preseason Top 20 Rankings.” They had one team from the not ranked in the top 20, and I think they could battle Warner Robins for best in the region. Ware County has athletes all over the field, led by quarterback Thomas Castellanos and linebacker Michael Mincey, who have offers from multiple SEC schools in their pockets. The Gators were one of the top teams in the second half of last season, winning seven of their final eight games before falling to eventual state champion Buford. This team has some real skill and should be taken seriously next season as a contender.
Generally, when a team returns its top quarterback, running back, and receiver, things bode well for their success. That’s exactly the case for the Cadets, and they should once again compete with Jenkins for a region championship as both schools move up to the 4A classification. Benedictine only had 12 seniors graduate from last season, and they bring back a good amount of their roster and production from a team that went 7-1 in region play last season. Holden Geriner and Trent Broadnax will be the key to the offensive success. This 1-2 combination has some serious explosiveness to them, but Geriner will need to cut back on the turnovers entering his junior year. He’s caught the attention of teams like Auburn, Arkansas, and LSU, but a deep playoff run against some of the top competition in 4A can open a lot of doors for the talented quarterback.
80 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins
4
Losses
Points Scored
302
Points Allowed
253
Head Coach: Jason Strickland
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Michael W. Brinson
4
SEPT Cook
11
SEPT
@ Bartram Trail (FL)
18
SEPT
@ Baldwin
25
SEPT
@ Thomson
2
9
23
OCT
OCT
OCT
Bainbridge
Benedictine
Coffee
30
OCT
@ Warner Robins
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Wayne County
Veterans
WHAT TO EXPECT Ware County’s five-game winning streak led the Gators to the second round of the playoffs before losing to the eventual state champion, Buford. But this season’s team has a lot of hype behind it with a rising class with multiple Division I prospects. After starting 3-3, the Gators averaged 36.4 points per game and became a dominant rushing team on the way to the state playoffs and a Region 2 championship. The Gators looked wellequipped to make a run toward the state championship, but now have a legitimate shot. This season they have a new region as they move to Region 1 and have a competitive schedule as they have to face Warner Robins, last year’s state runners-up, and Coffee, who joins the region after coming down from 6A. The rushing team should be dominant once again. The schedule is difficult, with games against Bartram Trail, Warner Robins, Bainbridge, Coffee, and Benedictine.
Thomas Castellanos, the star quarterback for Ware County last season, returns as a junior after finishing as the Gators’ leading passer and rusher. He is the focal point of the offense and is a big reason for the Gators’ success. Along with Castellanos, wide receiver Brandon Mills and linebacker Michael Mincey all have attracted Division I offers and will lead Ware County deep into the state playoffs.
Ware County doesn’t lose a whole lot of talent from this past season’s roster, but tight end Mac Johnson and defensive lineman Tony Bethea were both GACA All-State and will be the biggest holes for the Gators. Ladedric Castellanos also departs after a strong season as a two-way defensive back and wide receiver.
8-2. This team is deep and loaded. They’ll compete for a region title, but may fall just behind Warner Robins. They’re still equipped to win state.
REGION 1 - 5A
KEY LOSSES
WARE COUNTY
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 81
5
11
SEPT
SEPT
@ Valdosta
Archer
Head Coach: Marquis Westbrook
2
25
SEPT
@ Northside (Warner Robins)
OCT
Houston County
9
OCT
@ Lee County
16
OCT
Camden County
Ware County
6
13
NOV
@ Wayne County
NOV Coffee
20
NOV
@ Veterans
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
The good news for Warner Robins football fans is that their Demons have advanced to the state championship game for three consecutive seasons and have won 39 games in that span. The bad news, if there is such a thing with that kind of success, is that the Demons are 0-3 in those three title games, losing to Rome, Bainbridge, and this last season to Buford. Can Warner Robins somehow find their way to a fourth straight championship game? With seven offensive starters returning and six coming back on defense, second-year head coach Marquis Westbrook will certainly have the talent, but he knows how tough making it to a state title game can be.
When Westbrook says he has talent returning, he’s not kidding. Returning to lead the Demons offense is starting quarterback Jalen Addie. A 15-game starter last season, Addie is one of the best quarterbacks in the entire state of Georgia, and colleges are taking notice. Addie is receiving numerous offers, including Austin Peay and Notre Dame College in Ohio. Last year he threw for over 2,400 yards and 24 touchdowns. In the backfield along with Addie will be running back Jahlen Rutherford, a three-year starter. He’ll run behind another three-year starter, offensive lineman Bobby Hutchinson. Defensively, Westbrook will welcome back last year’s Region Player of the Year, Ahmad Walker, an outside linebacker. Walker is an All-State and All-Region selection and is being recruited by Army, Akron, and Georgia State. Sophomore Vic Burley will return, and the young defensive tackle is already getting attention from the likes of Alabama, Tennessee, Auburn, and Georgia. Warner Robins will have a unique situation with its kicking game. Westbrook said three kickers will battle for the job. Senior Cary Payne III will battle with sophomores Jackson McCook and Daniel Barber.
KEY LOSSES Gone is receiver Marcayll Jones, whom Westbrook said was a “dynamic player.” He is now at Memphis. Linebacker Malachi Weatherspoon, a three-year starter, has graduated and is now playing at Shorter.
Warner Robins may have the most talent of any team in Middle Georgia and is in a reload mode right now. Don’t be surprised to see them back in the state title game for a fourth straight year. 2019 STATS
REGION 1 -5A
WARNER ROBINS
30
OCT
82 | itgnext.com
overall record 13
Wins 514 204 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins
3
361
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
248 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of seatingsolution.wordpress.com
5
SEPT
@ Statesboro
11
SEPT
@ Pierce County
25
18
SEPT
@ Richmond Hill
2
SEPT
OCT
Jenkins
Benedictine
9
OCT
Appling County
23
OCT
@ Veterans
30
OCT
@ Coffee
Head Coach: Ken Cribb
6
20
NOV
NOV
Warner Robins
Ware County
WHAT TO EXPECT
KEY LOSSES
There’s still a good amount of the Wayne County roster returning, with the majority of their young offensive line back, along with starting quarterback Trey Pierce, who took over the starting duties last season.
Shamar Taylor was a great receiver and quarterback at different times for Wayne County. As a quarterback in 2018, he led the Yellow Jackets to an undefeated regular season. He was a dynamic player for the team in 2019 as he moved back to receiver. Gaven Garner also departs as the starting tackle. He was the leader on the offensive line with his 6-foot6, 300-pound frame, and he’ll certainly be missed on the Wayne County roster. Also gone is top defensive player Jalen Barnum, who had offers from Purdue and Navy before signing to play with Kennesaw State.
The schedule is difficult this season for Wayne County, which will force them to take a step back, but they should still make the playoffs by getting a couple of region wins.
REGION 1 -5A
WHO’S BACK
WAYNE COUNTY
In a new-looking region that features Coffee, Warner Robins, Veterans, and Ware County, it may seem easy to count Wayne County as the odd one out. But this Yellow Jacket team doesn’t go down easy and proved themself as a player in the 5A classification. They rolled through region play last season until their regular season finale against Ware County. Wayne County ended up losing in the second round of the state playoffs, losing 28-20 to Clarke Central. Their offense should be solid once again in 2020 after averaging 33 points per game last season. Before losing two of their last three games, the Yellow Jackets looked like they were ready to challenge some of the top teams in their classification. This team has taken leaps since Ken Cribb took over as head coach, going 28-6 in his tenure with the Yellow Jackets.
ITG Next | 83
5
SEPT
East Coweta
11
SEPT
Mt. Zion (Jonesboro)
Head Coach: Chad Phillips
18
SEPT
@ Union Grove
25
SEPT Sandy Creek
9
OCT
Harris County
16
OCT
@ Northgate
6
13
NOV
NOV
Griffin
Whitewater
McIntosh
20
NOV
@ Northside (Columbus)
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Panthers head coach Chad Phillips has seen a lot of good football during his time at Starr’s Mill High School. He’s been at the school since it opened in 1997 and has been the head coach for the last 10 years. He has also overseen a four-year stretch that has seen the Panthers win the region each season. Last year, Starr’s Mill finished 10-4 overall and 5-1 atop Region 3-5A. Phillips is excited to bring back most of his defensive starters from that team, as 10 of the starting 11 return. The offense is a bit of a different story, with several skill positions lost to graduation. Starr’s Mill will have the bulk of its offensive line back, but an inexperienced quarterback could present a few growing pains, according to Phillips.
On defense, strong safety and linebacker Cole Bishop is back, and he will be the team leader for the rest of his defensive guys. The senior is without a doubt the biggest recruit in the last decade. Another senior will line up next to him, as Wes Haney gets ready. Phillips referred to Haney as “a beast of a player.” Cornerback Johnathon Higle is another multi-year starter who returns. He led the region in interceptions last season. Also back is a pair of defensive ends, led by Barrett Schmidlkofer. Phillips plans to use him on offense as well. Phillips said they are “really big boys.” Senior kicker Conner Marke is back, and Phillips was quick to point out how he contributed last year. “He hit a 50-yard field goal to win the Griffin game for us,” Phillips said.
KEY LOSSES Starr’s Mill lost a big part of their offense, according to Phillips. “We lost the entire backfield,” Phillips said. That includes quarterback Hunter Lawson, fullback Ben Bodne, and wingbacks Kalen Sims and Karsen Kalen.
While Starr’s Mill’s defense will be solid, how fast their offense can grow up and get past the losses of so many skill position players will determine if they win a fifth straight region championship. I say they find a way to get it done. 2019 STATS
REGION 2 - 5A
STARR’S MILL
30
OCT
84 | itgnext.com
overall record 10
Wins
393 282 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Starr’s Mill Football via Twitter
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins
5
295
Head Coach: Maurice Dixon
4
SEPT
@ Grayson
17
SEPT
@ Westlake
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
229 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of creeksidetribe.com
25
2
SEPT
OCT
Cartersville
Drew
9
OCT
@ Tri-Cities
16
OCT
Forest Park
30
OCT
@ Banneker
6
NOV
Mundy’s Mill
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Creekside rebounded from an 0-2 start last season to finish 7-5, securing the No. 3 seed in the competitive Region 5-6A. That forced the Seminoles to go on the road in the playoffs, where they upset the higher seeded Alpharetta Raiders 28-0. The thrill of that win was lived, as Creekside fell at Lee County 49-7. As head coach Maurice Dixon heads into his fourth season at Creekside, he’ll have six returning starters on offense to work with, but only three returners on defense. Regardless of the numbers, Dixon said Creekside has an image to live up to. “We’re known as being a very physical team that plays a physical style on both sides of the ball, but I think we’ve got an offense that could be more explosive this year than what we’ve had in previous years,” Dixon said.
Dixon points to his four returning senior offensive linemen as the key to making his offense really go this year. “They’re going to set the tone for what we’re able to do this year,” he said. “It all starts with them.” They are Jalil Muhammad, a 6-foot-3 offensive guard who will also see time at defensive tackle. Jordan Davis is a 6-foot5 tackle on the O-line. Rahyiem Rowe is a guard and center and stands at 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds. Ledell Finister stands 6-foot-5 and tops the scales at 320 pounds. Those four big guys will provide protection for returning quarterback junior Jared Lawrence. His target will be returning receiver Cameron Burch. Junior safety Dainsus Miller will be back to lead his defensive backfield teammates. A pair of linebackers return to plug the middle. They are junior Vincent Hill and senior Marcel Hudson.
— Maurice Dixon
Look for Dixon and his staff to try to get the run game going behind that massive offensive line while mixing in the passing game. I see Creekside competing for a playoff spot once again, maybe as a No. 2 or No. 3 seed.
@ Jonesboro
Woodward Academy
REGION 3 - 5A
Big losses on defense include two linebackers who will remain teammates in college. Tyson Meiguez and Khatavian Franks have decided to play for Geoff Collins and Georgia Tech. Defensive back Rashad Battle will take his talents to Pitt, while running back Tyler Malone heads to Notre Dame College in Ohio.
“We’re known as being a very physical team that plays a physical style on both sides of the ball, but I think we’ve got an offense that could be more explosive this year than what we’ve had in previous years.”
20
NOV
CREEKSIDE
KEY LOSSES
13
NOV
ITG Next | 85
4
SEPT
@ Newton
12
SEPT
@ Hapeville (Banneker)
18
SEPT Marist
2
OCT
Mundy’s Mill
9
OCT Banneker
16
OCT
@ Jonesboro
30
OCT Drew
6
13
NOV
NOV
Forest Park
@ Tri-Cities
20
NOV Creekside
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins 513
Head Coach: John Hunt
157
1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Woodward Academy Football_Georgia via Twitter
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK The biggest name in the Woodward locker room is Khari Gee. He’s ranked as one of the top 25 safeties in the country for the class of 2021 and does just about everything for the War Eagles defense. He finished with 58 tackles, six pass deflections, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. He’s a terrific athlete who is already committed to play for defending champions LSU. Woodward has the best safety combination in the league with Gee and Alan Wright. Wright led the team with four interceptions last season, playing the deep safety position compared to Gee’s ability to make plays all over the field. Wright is also the leading returning receiver on the team, with 444 yards and six touchdowns. Their top defensive lineman, Ozzie Hoffler, also returns after having six sacks last season.
KEY LOSSES
REGION 3 - 5A
WOODWARD ACADEMY
Not much could stand in Woodward’s way last season. They dispatched most of their opponents with ease as they started the season with a perfect 13-0. Not only did they win 12 of those 13 games by double digits, they scored 30 or more points in 11 of those wins as well. They cemented themselves as the favorites to win the state championship in 2019. In the semifinal, however, they faced a familiar opponent. They beat Blessed Trinity 13-10 earlier in the season in a close affair, but couldn’t keep up with the Titans in the playoffs. They lost the game 46-21 and thus ended the perfect season. There’s still reason for optimism in 2020, with a talented defense and running game returning. The War Eagles move up to Class 5A, but are built into a region where they should once again be the favorite to win and make another playoff run.
86 | itgnext.com
Another Wright, Mike Wright, is the biggest departure for the War Eagles. He was the star quarterback last season, finishing with 37 touchdowns to only eight interceptions. He and wide receiver Ambe Caldwell were a dynamic duo last season, and both have since graduated. Wright is signed to play for Vanderbilt next season while Caldwell is going to play for Miami of Ohio. The War Eagles also lose three key defenders in linebackers Aaron Washington and Jacorrei Turner and cornerback Hunter Sellers.
9-1. They move up in class and lose some talent, but the War Eagles have a manageable region and should win that title again.
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins
4
302
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
235
Head Coach: Jared Zito
Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Ola High School
4
SEPT Jackson
11
SEPT
North Oconee
18
SEPT
@ Spalding
25
SEPT Dutchtown
2
OCT
Woodland (Stockbridge)
16
OCT
@ Union Grove
23
OCT
@ Jones County
6
NOV
@ Stockbridge
13
20
NOV
NOV
Eagle’s Landing
@ Locust Grove
WHAT TO EXPECT Ola High School of McDonough is coming off one of the better seasons in school history. The Mustangs finished 7-4 overall with a 4-3 region record, good enough for the No. 4 seed coming out of Region 4-5A. In the playoffs, they lost to Ware County on the road. Still, it’s progress as head football coach Jared Zito sees it.
“We had a good season, and with several key players coming back, we’re hoping to keep that momentum going into this season,” Zito said.
Ola will have six starters returning on offense and eight on defense, and the Mustangs return kicker Chase Folser, who Zito said is “a big-time force.” Zito said he thinks his Mustangs will be strong defensively, but they must find replacements at inside linebacker. “We lose a couple of real good ones there,” Zito said. He also said the offense will depend on just how fast his new quarterback, Xavier Williamson, picks up the offense.
Wide receiver Freddie Felton is back. In addition to catching passes, Felton is a key returner on kicks and punts. Also returning is offensive lineman Nelson Kinsey, a three-year starter for the Mustangs. As Zito pointed out, the Mustangs will have returning kicker Chase Folser back this year. Just a sophomore, Folser is already an All-Region selection from last season, and his range gives Ola a chance to put points on the board soon after crossing midfield. Defensively, defensive end Devin Lee will be the leader. The three-year starter is being highly recruited. Defensive back Legend Doggett is another player receiving a lot of attention. Together, they’ll give the Mustangs one of the better defensive units in Region 4-5A.
While the number of players lost isn’t too high, the quality of those players is. The two starting linebackers for Ola are gone. They are Baylen Sanders and Quentin Willis. Sanders was a three-year starter and has accepted an offer to play at Cumberland University, while Willis will take his talents to New Mexico Military College. The starting quarterback from the past two seasons has graduated. Hunter Kautz accounted for right at 2,700 yards combined rushing and passing last season alone, with close to 4,000 combined for his career at Ola. His favorite target, Kas Stephens, has graduated. He was Ola’s leading receiver.
With a kicker like Folser, the potential for points could come often. With most of the defense back this year, Ola should be improved and could compete to host a firstround playoff game as one of the top two seeds in the region.
OLA
KEY LOSSES
REGION 4 - 5A
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 87
4
11
SEPT
SEPT
@ Alpharetta
@ Marist
18
SEPT St. Pius X
25
SEPT
@ Charlotte Catholic (NC)
2
OCT ELCA
16
OCT
Woodland (Cartersville)
23
OCT
@ Calhoun
30
6
OCT
@ Cartersville
13
NOV
NOV
Hiram
Cass
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Tim McFarlin
Coach Tim McFarlin has built a powerhouse at Blessed Trinity. He was tasked with turning around the program in 2011 and saw a lot of success. In 2017, the Titans won their first state championship. Three years later, three straight championships. Blessed Trinity is 43-2 in their last three seasons, and no doubtedly one of the contenders to do it again despite the move up to 5A. This team has had its identity for a while now: They’re going to run the ball a lot. Justice Haynes led the team in rushing last season as just a freshman. He finished with 1,754 yards and 18 touchdowns. He contributed to a rushing attack that ran rampant, rushing for 4,362 yards on the year, and now takes over as the workhorse on the team. Along with Haynes, the Titans have a new quarterback in the fold, which could lead to an opened up playbook in 2020. J.C. French is a rising junior with a Power Five scholarship offer at Wake Forest and is transferring from Wesleyan. He finished his sophomore season leading Wesleyan to a runner-up finish, with over 2,900 yards and 32 touchdowns through the air and an additional 16 touchdowns on the ground. If Blessed Trinity can add a passing game, then 5A better watch out.
WHO’S BACK Haynes was already mentioned, but the Titans had a young roster that brings back a strong core. The top five tacklers all return for Blessed Trinity, and Ryan Dupont led the way at both fullback and middle linebacker. He’s already being circled by teams such as Kansas State and Wisconsin and had 115 tackles last season. Along with Dupont, Mavrick Torrico really impressed in his freshman season at Blessed Trinity with 58 tackles. This linebacker core is immensely talented.
Despite all of the positives, Blessed Trinity must replace the majority of its secondary, a talented defensive lineman, and a talented running back. James Bryant, Quinton Reese, and Matthew Franke combined for eight interceptions and all graduated. Grayson Gilder was perhaps the top player for the Titans and finished the season with 57 tackles and 6.5 sacks. On the offensive side of the ball, Elijah Green was the other lead running back and graduated as well. He finished with 1,646 yards and a team-leading 21 touchdowns last season. He signed at North Carolina and was a part of one of the winningest classes in school history.
8-2. The Titans have a strong schedule against teams such as Alpharetta, ELCA, and Cartersville. They should roll through their schedule no problem and compete for a state championship.
REGION 7 - 5A
BLESSED TRINITY
KEY LOSSES
88 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 14
Wins 459 208 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Blessed Trinity
1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins
3 Losses
370
Points Scored Points Allowed
156 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Calhoun Football via Twitter
4
SEPT
@ Dalton
12
SEPT
Gardendale (AL)
18
SEPT
@ Cedartown
25
2
SEPT
OCT
Ridgeland
Woodstock
16
OCT
@ Hiram
23
OCT
Blessed Trinity
30
OCT
@ Woodland (Cartersville)
Head Coach: Clay Stephenson
6
13
NOV
NOV
@ Cass
Cartersville
WHAT TO EXPECT It has been a long time since Calhoun was considered the hunted in a classification rather than the hunter. The Yellow Jackets ran Region 6-3A and for the first time in over 15 years were unable to win the region in 2019. In fact, their loss to North Murray last season ended a 119-game winning streak against regional opponents that dated all the way back to 2001. Hal Lamb built a powerhouse of a program, and it was a testament to his and Calhoun’s greatness that they continued to win at such a high level. In 2019 they finished second in Region 6, with a 10-2 record and one loss in the region. They reached the second round of the playoffs in Clay Stephenson’s first year as head coach and continued to look like they can be one of the best teams in the class year after year. 2020 may be their most difficult year yet with the jump to 5A and a region that now includes Blessed Trinity, who won the previous three state championships in 4A, and Cartersville, who won back-to-back state championships in 4A before Blessed Trinity.
Even with the two-classification jump, Jerrian Hames might be the best player in the entire class. Hames was a workhorse for the Yellow Jackets, finishing the season with 215 carries, 1,544 yards, and 23 touchdowns. He finished 22nd last season in carries in the entire state and will need to take on an even larger role with the loss of Morrow to graduation. The Yellow Jackets still have a lot of talent, led by defensive linemen Carson Griffin and Brett Garland. It starts at the front with Calhoun, as questions about the offensive line and strength at the defensive line could be the deciding factor to if this is a solid season for Calhoun.
The Yellow Jackets have a good mix of returning talent and talent that needs to be replaced. Their top player last season was linebacker Zeke Brown, who was named to the GACA All-State team for the 3A classification. He led the team with over 130 tackles on the season. Along with Brown, the other big loss is Jake Morrow, who finished as Second Team All-Region last season for the Yellow Jackets and has been a three-year starter at quarterback.
7-3. The classification jump will be difficult. The Yellow Jackets have tough games against Dalton, Cedartown, Hiram, Cartersville, and Blessed Trinity. But if the last two decades have taught us anything, Calhoun is good for at least seven games.
CALHOUN
KEY LOSSES
REGION 7 - 5A
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 89
RUNNING BACK | GRAYSON
TOP OFFERS COMMITTED
90 | itgnext.com
PHIL MAFAH
4
SEPT Morrow
11
SEPT
West Forsyth
18
SEPT Alexander
25
SEPT
@ Creekside
2
OCT
@ Cherokee
16
23
OCT
OCT
@ Cass
Hiram
30
OCT
Blessed Trinity
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Conor Foster begins his seventh season at Cartersville. His first five years were spent as an assistant coach, but last year saw Foster take over the Football program as the head man. He led the Purple Hurricanes to an outstanding 12-1 overall record and an undefeated mark in the region. Things will look much different headed into the 2020 season, as Cartersville will not only move into a new region, but will move from Class 4A to Class 5A. Foster doesn’t seem to be too fazed. “First of all, we want our seniors and returning starters from last season to step up,” he said. “We have some really good players who we will look to as coaches on the field for us. There’s a lot of leadership back this year.” Cartersville is tied for the longest active win streak in the GHSA.
Seven starters return on offense. Running back Quante Jennings sustained a shoulder injury in the fourth game and had surgery. He was able to recover and actually made it back for the playoffs last season. Despite the injury costing him much of the season, Jennings still led the team in carries for the year. He’ll return as the go-to guy out of the backfield. Senior slot receiver Sam Phillips and senior Kyler Johnson are back this year. Seven on defense will be coming back for Cartersville. Senior Evan Slocum will contribute at several positions for Cartersville. “He’ll be an athlete-type guy for us this season,” Foster said. Gavin Geros returns at inside linebacker. Devonte Ross returns and will multitask in several areas, including on defense at corner back, wideout on offense, and on special teams where he’ll return kicks and punts. “Devonte is an old school, throw back guy,” Foster said.
KEY LOSSES Starting quarterback Tee Webb graduated and now begins the next step in his football career with the Louisville Cardinals. Offensive tackle Jonah Gambill leaves Cartersville and will attend college to play offensive line at Memphis. Marquail Coaxum will play college football with Kent State.
6
13
NOV
NOV
Woodland (Cartersville)
@ Calhoun
Head Coach: Conor Foster
2019 STATS 12
Wins 440 158 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Cartersville Football via Twitter
1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
REGION 7 - 5A
overall record
CARTERSVILLE
8-2. The football machine known as Cartersville will keep its winning ways going in 2020. Student-athletes want to attend the school for the chance at a championship.
ITG Next | 91
Written by: Kyle Grondin
PASSING LEADERS
RECEIVING LEADERS
Clete Cooper East Hall 2,499 YDS
Bubba Chandler North Oconee 2,098 YDS
3.
Christian Charles Chestatee 2,092 YDS
4.
Patrick Blake Jenkins 1,823 YDS
Matt Redmond Northwest Whitfield 606 YDS
Tyler Franks West Laurens 573 YDS
Trent Broadnax Benedictine 558 YDS
Braxton Johnson Bainbridge 544 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH Cairo @ Bainbridge
Jenkins @ Benedictine
Jefferson @ North Oconee
The Syrupmakers always compete for a division title, while the Bearcats are still just two years removed from a state championship. Bainbridge’s Deyon Bouie and Cairo’s Tay Soloman will make this a fun game to watch.
The Benedictine duo of Holten Geriner and Trent Broadnax face their toughest challenge in region play in Patrick Blake and Jenkins. This game could decide a state championship.
The best quarterback in the classification is Bubba Chandler, who is committed to Clemson. He and North Oconnee take on Malachi Starks and a talented Jefferson team looking to take them down this season.
92 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES A region where both the state champion and runner-up have both changed classifications make this a tough region to gauge. But it’s loaded with talent and some of the best quarterbacks in the state. It will be fun to watch all of these teams battle it out for a state title.
TACKLE LEADERS
INTERCEPTION LEADERS Malaki Starks
Jordan McCamish Northwest Whitfield 144 TKS
Jefferson 5
Ja’maian Stokes
Tucker Lowe Pickens 4
Perry 110 TKS
Matt Redmond
Jakeveon Upshaw
Northwest Whitfield 4
Hardaway 108 TKS
Deyon Bouie
Christian Curry
Bainbridge 3
Hardaway 106 TKS
TOP 10 RANKINGS 4A
1
2
West Laurens
6
3 Bainbridge
7 Cairo
Carver (Columbus)
5
4
North Oconee
Mays
9
8 Troup
Cedartown
10 Jenkins
Jefferson
ITG Next | 93
400 N Clay St Bainbridge, Georgia (229) 246-2112
flintriveroutfitter.com
GEORGIA'S PREMIER HUNTING AND SOUTHERN LIFESTYLE SUPPLIER
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins
4
309
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
162 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
4
SEPT
11
North Miami Beach (FL)
SEPT
Dothan (AL)
18
SEPT
Gadsden County (FL)
25
SEPT Thomasville
2
OCT
@ Ware County
16
OCT Cairo
23
OCT
@ Dougherty
6
NOV
@ Westover
Head Coach: Jeff Littleton
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Thomas County Central
Monroe
“We’ve got some really good talent returning, and I like the fact that we also have great leadership and good chemistry with this group. Anything less than a deep run will be disappointing.”
— Jeff Littleton
Two years after winning the Class 5A state championship in improbable fashion - after finishing the regular season at 5-5, then winning five straight playoff games to capture the crown - Bainbridge is hungry to taste that same feeling that only winning a championship can bring. Last season saw Bainbridge finish 7-3 in the regular season, but their No. 3 seed forced them to go on the road in the first round of the playoffs, where they lost to Griffin. Head coach Jeff Littleton feels pretty good about the team he’s got coming back this season, including several college prospects. “We’ve got some really good talent returning, and I like the fact that we also have great leadership and good chemistry with this group,” Littleton said. “Anything less than a deep run will be disappointing.” If the Bearcats want to get back to the title game, this may very well be their best opportunity.
Bainbridge will welcome back seven starters on offense and six on defense. Three senior playmakers will return on offense including quarterback Quayde Hawkins, who has committed to Troy after mulling over 15-20 offers. Running back Rashad Broadnax returns and is considering an offer to attend South Alabama. The third senior that Littleton pointed out on offense will be guard Lawson Chandler. Gardner-Webb has extended an offer to the senior lineman. The three seniors will be joined by junior wideout Braxton Johnson. The Bearcats will have senior defensive ends Jackson McCullough and Simpson Bolles back this season. Senior linebacker Tahari Tate is back and has offers from Western Carolina and Lanora University. He will have fellow linebacker Trey Bowie by his side this year. Safety and wide receiver Zion Bowie returns, as does another Bowie: Deyon Bowie is returning from a torn ACL that he suffered playing backyard football.
KEY LOSSES Littleton said the Bearcats will miss tight end Jackson Wheeler, left tackle Vick Wimberly, and linebacker Amari Peterson. Wheeler is attending Georgia Southern as a preferred walk-on, while Wimberly will attend Florida Memorial. Peterson is in Rome, where he’ll play with Division II Shorter College.
This team may be even more talented than the 2018 championship team. But, it takes a lot of luck to go with that talent to win a title. Look for Bainbridge to go deep in the playoffs this season.
BAINBRIDGE
WHO’S BACK
REGION 1 - 4A
WHAT TO EXPECT
CHECKING is always FREE NEW MEMBERS could WIN
$250!
Bainbridge - 1027 East Shotwell Street | FiveStarCU.com | 888-619-1711
ITG Next | 95
4
SEPT Fitzgerald
11
SEPT
18
@ Brooks County
SEPT Thomasville
2
OCT
@ Pelham
16
OCT
23
@ Bainbridge
6
OCT
13
NOV
@ Thomas County Central
Monroe
NOV
Dougherty
Westover
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Steve DeVoursney
20
NOV
Head coach Steve DeVoursney kicks off his sixth season as head coach of the Syrupmakers, and if this year is anything like his first five, expect Cairo to compete for a region title… and more. Last season, Cairo finished with an 8-3 record, including a 7-1 region mark, good enough for the No. 2 seed in Region 1-4A and a home playoff game. But, a 38-30 loss to Baldwin in Round 1 sent the Syrupmakers packing early. Looking to the 2020 season, DeVoursney will have to get past some big losses in key positions. But, don’t expect him to use that as an excuse. “We did lose a lot of really good talent, but we have a lot of tradition here at Cairo, and these kids realize that it’s next man up,” DeVoursney said.
“We did lose a lot of really good talent, but we have a lot of tradition here at Cairo, and these kids realize that it’s next man up.” — Steve DeVoursney
WHO’S BACK Cairo will have four starters returning on the offensive side of the ball and six on defense. Among the contributors back on offense are four seniors. They are running back Tay Solomon, wide receivers Sam Harris and Kilijah Thomas, and offensive lineman Brandon McClendon. The defense will also have several seniors back in 2020, including safety John Carter, linebacker Gary Davis, and defensive tackle Ty Glenn.
KEY LOSSES Cairo will have to somehow replace a couple of three-year starters this year. Quarterback Matthew Peters has joined the Navy, and one of his favorite targets, Marquii Lovejoy, has graduated. The team leader in interceptions from a year ago, defensive back De’vario Smith, has graduated.
REGION 1 - 4A
CAIRO
This will be one of the more challenging rebuilds for DeVoursney and his coaching staff. The quarterback position is a big question mark, so we’ll see if indeed that next man up tradition comes through this season. Look for another eight-win season at Cairo. 2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins 404 172 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
CHECKING is always FREE NEW MEMBERS could WIN
$250!
Cairo - 990 Highway 84-E | FiveStarCU.com | 888-619-1711
96 | itgnext.com
3
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
For more than 23 years, Kevin Ross has been assisting families with their financial needs. Kevin also specializes in helping teachers plan for their retirement, by showing them how to maximum their Georgia teachers pension. • • • • •
Stocks/Bonds* Money Market Accounts* Annuities IRAs and ROTH IRAs 401(k) Rollovers
• • • • •
College Saving Plans* Mutual Funds* Life Insurance Long-Term Care Insurance Disability Insurance
Contact Kevin today for a complete financial review.
229-377-0880
22 3rd Ave NW | Cairo, Ga 39828 kevin@kevinrossfinancial.com
* Securities offered through Securities America, Inc., member FINRA/SPIC Kevin A. Ross, Registered Representative Advisory Services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Kevin Ross Financial Services and Securities America are separate companies.
WE PROUDLY SUPPORT LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS
— DREAMING WILD PHOTOGRAPHY —
Contact info: cevinson9216@gmail.com dreamingwildphotography
4
SEPT
@ Wakulla
11
SEPT
@ Thomasville
18
SEPT
Tift County
2
25
SEPT
15
OCT
Godby (FL)
OCT
@ Valdosta
23
@ Monroe
6
OCT
@ Westover
13
20
NOV
NOV
NOV
Cairo
Bainbridge
Dougherty
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
By the end of September last season, Thomas County Central was undefeated at 4-0 and looked like one of the favorites to win their region. They won each game in double-digit point totals, including a dominant 31-17 win over cross-town rival Thomasville. But the Yellow Jackets lost five of their final six games of the regular season and missed out on the playoffs. They return a strong offensive crew and should be able to score a lot of points in 2020. But their schedule will make it tough, with contests against Tift County, Valdosta, and Godby in Tallahassee, Florida.
A strong offensive team, led by quarterback Kalique Guyton, is back. Guyton finished with over 2,100 yards of offense and 19 touchdowns on the season. If he can cut back on the 14 interceptions last season, he could be one of the best quarterbacks in the region. Running back Tykeem Wallace returns as well, and rising sophomore wide receiver Adam Hopkins returns as one of the top pass catchers on the team.
Thomas County Central has a lot of talent on their roster, particularly on offense. But the schedule may be too difficult to improve upon last season.
Ra’Shun Jackson, the starting linebacker for Thomas County Central last season, was the leading tackler and an All-State player for the Yellow Jackets. He finished with 99 tackles on the season, along with a fumble recovery and a safety. He was the center of the defense in 2019. Also gone is Carrington Robinson, the two-way player who had over 500 total yards as a rusher, receiver, and kick returner to go along with 36 tackles and three interceptions.
Head Coach: Ashley Henderson
KEY LOSSES
Wins
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
5
5
Losses
257
Points Scored
257
Points Allowed
REGION 1 - 4A
overall record
THOMAS COUNTY CENTRAL
2019 STATS
Bryan Gainous, Agent 229-226-6965 www.thomasvillesf.com 1204 E Jackson St Thomasville, GA 31792
Auto Home Life Health Bank ITG Next | 99
4
SEPT
AmericusSumter
11
SEPT Jackson
18
SEPT
@ Mary Persons
25
SEPT
Mitchell County
2
OCT
@ Early County
16
OCT
@ Dougherty
23
6
OCT
Thomas County Central
13
NOV
NOV
Bainbridge
Monroe
20
NOV @ Cairo
WHAT TO EXPECT Westover is coming off back-to back winning seasons, including a 6-4 record a year ago. Second-year head coach Olten Downs is looking to get his Patriots back to the playoffs after missing out on the postseason a year ago. “We feel real good about the guys we have returning this year, especially our skill position guys,” said the former Georgia Southern safety-turned head football coach. That includes all of the running backs and receivers who started or contributed last season. In total, Downs will have six returning starters back on both offense and defense.
Head Coach: Olten Downs
WHO’S BACK Senior wide receiver Dailan Hall is back, as are junior running backs Julius McClellan and Reginald Williams. That will give junior quarterback Keshay Walton weapons to both hand the ball to and find in the passing game. Walton stepped up in place of starter Cameron Hopkins for two games last season and led the Pats to victories in both games. The job is his full time now, according to Downs. “He really stepped up last season when we needed him most,” Downs said of Walton. “We’re excited to have him back as our starter.” Walton also started at cornerback last season and could possibly see time on that side of the ball again. Downs is excited to have returning defensive backs Marco Foster and Cameron Bergeron this year. Both seniors were All-Region selections and will give Westover a big advantage in shutting down their opponents’ passing threats. Senior linebacker Chauncey Malone returns in 2020, as do junior defensive ends Dametris Greene and Isaac Moody.
KEY LOSSES
Downs has done a great job at Westover, and with 12 returning starters, look for big things from them, including a return to the state playoffs. 2019 STATS
REGION 1 -5A
WESTOVER
Downs said losing kicker Collins Giovingo will be tough. “He was a big weapon for us during his career here at Westover,” Downs said of Giovingo. Giovingo was First Team All-Region all three seasons as a kicker for the Patriots. “We’re going to have to find the next man up to kick,” Downs said matter-of-factly. Defensive end Willie Jones and defensive back Isaiah Berry will be missed, as will Hopkins.
100 | itgnext.com
overall record 6
Wins
331 227 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Westover Football via Twitter
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
4
SEPT
@ Houston County
11
SEPT
Harris County
18
SEPT
@ Hampton
25
9
SEPT
OCT
Veterans
Rutland
16
OCT
@ Spalding
30
OCT
West Laurens
5
NOV
@ Westside (Macon)
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Howard
Baldwin
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins
5
268
Head Coach: Kevin Smith
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
241 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
WHAT TO EXPECT To say that Panther fans are excited and pleased with the job that head coach Kevin Smith has done since arriving at the Middle Georgia school is an understatement. Entering his fourth year as head coach, Smith led the Panthers to their first home playoff game since 2007. Last year’s team finished 7-5 and advanced to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2007. The team played for its first region title since 1983, a game they lost to West Laurens. He has made the team better each season, finishing 5-5 in year one, 6-5 in year two, and 7-5 last year. Now, in year four, can Smith keep the streak alive? Can Perry best their 7-5 finish?
WHO’S BACK Perry sees a defense that boasts seven returning starters and just five returning offensively. Senior quarterback Lane Rucker has been as much to credit as his coach for the turn around at Perry. This will be Rucker’s fourth straight season as the starter, with 3,000 passing yards to his credit so far. He’ll have senior running back Makeil Kendrick joining him in the backfield, along with last year’s leading receiver, Daequan Wright. On defense, Smith is delighted to have junior defensive lineman Quintavious Kendrick returning to anchor the line. “He’s our top lineman, and he’s very explosive,” Smith said. “(He is) a difference maker.”
Look for Perry to maintain its winning formula under Smith. I see no reason why Perry shouldn’t be in the hunt competing for the region title again.
PERRY
The defense will be without strong safety Tyren Mobley and linebacker C.J. Demicco. They have graduated, with Mobley now at GMC.
REGION 4 - 4A
KEY LOSSES
ITG Next | 101
2019 STATS overall record Wins
2
8
97
Head Coach: Matt Napier
1st Year Head Coach
LaGRANGE
@ Upson-Lee
10
SEPT
Northside (Columbus)
REGION 2 - 4A
4
SEPT
102 | itgnext.com
Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
315 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of LHS Booster Club via Facebook
25
SEPT
@ Columbus
2
OCT
@ Kendrick
9
OCT Shaw
16
OCT
Carver (Columbus)
29
OCT Jordan
5
NOV
@ Spencer
13
NOV @ Troup
19
NOV Hardaway
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
The Grangers are hoping the hiring of a new head coach will bring a new attitude and change in culture to a LaGrange football team that needs some positive energy. Matt Napier will take over the Grangers beginning this season. He comes from Callaway High School, where he has served as offensive coordinator for the last 14 years. Napier is eager to get to work restoring the faith at LaGrange. “We need to put a competitive team back on the field on Friday nights,” he said. “We need to change the culture.” That culture Napier speaks of includes zero playoff appearances over the past five years and zero region wins in the last three seasons. LaGrange is coming off a 2-8 season last year that included an 0-6 region record. Perhaps a new look with their head coach and region will bring better fortune for LaGrange in 2020. The Grangers will move from Region 5 in 4A to Region 2.
Napier will have four returning starters to work with on each side of the ball heading into his first season at LaGrange. That includes senior Adrian Traylor, who will line up at wide receiver and defensive back. Running backs Kale Gibbs and Caleb Ross are back. Napier said the two will give him and his team a “thunder and lightning” duo, with Gibbs as the speedy back and Ross punishing opponents with his 6-foot, 235-pound frame. The defense will welcome back defensive tackle Thad Dixon, a junior. He will be joined on the line by end Jacquez Smith, a senior. Montavious Martin is a returning junior who can play anywhere needed. An athlete, he will play defensive back and wideout.
KEY LOSSES Napier will have to find a new quarterback, as Charles Crawford is headed to the Ivy League where he will play baseball only at Brown. His center, Will Flowers, is headed to East Tennessee State University to continue his football career, while linebacker Jequavious Bowles is going to Georgia Knights Prep Academy.
3-7. Hopefully, the move to a new region and having a new head football coach will inspire confidence in LaGrange. Success will have to be measured in baby steps, and that means gaining that first region win. After that comes a winning record, then a playoff spot. While you shouldn’t expect all of that this upcoming season, do look for the Grangers to be much better under Napier.
4
SEPT
@ Harris County
11
SEPT Callaway
25
2
SEPT
OCT
Hardaway
Spencer
8
15
OCT
OCT
@ Columbus
@ Kendrick
23
30
OCT
OCT
@ Carver (Columbus)
Shaw
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Jordan
LaGrange
WHAT TO EXPECT Tanner Glisson begins his sixth season as the head coach of Troup football. He has done a great job of turning the program around, taking Troup from a 1-9 season in his first year to a team contending for a playoff spot each season. He’ll also oversee the team’s move into their brand new $15-million indoor practice facility. In addition to football, the facility will serve the school’s other sports and will house the school’s basketball floor.
WHO’S BACK Troup returns six starters on offense and seven on defense. Glisson said he’s excited about his offensive line, calling them the strength of the team this year. “We will have all of our offensive linemen back this year except for one,” Glisson said. “Royce White graduates and is headed to Memphis. We will miss him.” The Tigers welcome back all of their receivers, including their go-to guy, senior Zy Varner. He is receiving many Power Five offers. Teammate Marquarious Kelley will also be back this season. Senior defensive lineman Jordan Adams and senior safety Jace Godwin are back. In addition to being the main target on offense, Varner will also play on defense, lining up at outside linebacker.
“We will have all of our offensive linemen back this year except for one.”
Head Coach: Tanner Glisson
— Tanner Glisson
KEY LOSSES Quarterback Kobe Hudson departs high school for Auburn, where he will play wide receiver. Hudson was an Army All-American and selected as the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s GHSA Class 4A Offensive Player of the Year. Running back Trey Williams will also move on to play college football, as he takes his talents to Shorter University in Rome. Williams rushed for over 1,600 yards. The Tigers will have to find a replacement for defensive lineman Andy Boykin. He was a dominating presence while at Troup and now heads to Arkansas to further his playing career. According to Glisson, eight players from last year’s team are going on to play collegiately. “We lost a lot,” Glisson said. “Anytime you lose two SEC guys, it’s going to be hard to replace that level of talent.”
9-4. A tough schedule awaits Troup this year, but look for Glisson and his Tigers to be in the hunt for a region championship.
6
Wins
350 282 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of trouptigers.com
5
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
TROUP
overall record
REGION 2 - 4A
2019 STATS
ITG Next | 103
4
SEPT
Burke County
18
SEPT
Beaufort (SC)
25
SEPT
@ North Oconee
2
OCT
@ Wayne County
9
OCT
@ Ware County
16
OCT
Cocoa (FL)
23
OCT
@ Yulee (FL)
30
OCT Jenkins
6
NOV
@ New Hampstead
13
NOV Islands
2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins
Head Coach: Danny Britt
488 249
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Benedictine Military School via Twitter
WHAT TO EXPECT After rolling to an undefeated season and a state championship in 2016, the Cadets put together solid seasons the following two years, winning 12 and 11 games respectively, while advancing to the state quarterfinals each time. Last year saw the Cadets finish 8-4. While playing 12 games and advancing to the second round of the state playoffs would be considered a successful season by any other team’s standards, at Benedictine it was their worst finish since 2012. Looking toward the upcoming season, head coach Danny Britt said it’s not going to be easy turning things around. Britt, entering his 10th season at the Savannah military school, said his team will have what he refers to as a “ridiculously tough schedule that will make every week a battle.” Benedictine will also be facing the challenge of moving up in classification from Region 3-3A to Region 4-4A. That will put the Cadets in the same region with Jenkins, Islands, and New Hampstead. But, with seven starters returning on each side of the ball, Britt and his staff could rally the Cadets to another deep run into the playoffs.
The Cadets will pose quite a threat to opposing defenses with the return of two elite players that are a major part of their passing game. Receiver Trent Broadnax has committed to Duke University. He will be the main target of starting quarterback Holden Geriner, who is a standout, four-star recruit. He is receiving interest from virtually every major school in the country and has offers from LSU and Cincinnati. Defensively, Bryce Pashke returns to anchor the defensive line, while Justin Thomas will be back roaming the secondary at strong safety.
REGION 3 - 4A
BENEDICTINE
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES While Broadnax will be the go-to guy at receiver, the Cadets will miss last season’s leading receiver Gavin Stewart, who was all over the field. He was the team’s kicker and played 90% of the snaps on defense. Also gone are center Luke Barlow and defensive end Trevon Locke. Both were three-year starters on their respective positions.
12-2. Look for Benedictine to once again make a strong run into and through the playoffs, even as they battle in Class 4A this year. There’s just too much talent returning for Britt’s Cadets not to be a serious contender for the region championship and possibly a state title.
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms! 104 | itgnext.com
4
SEPT
@ Bleckley County
11
SEPT
@ Veterans
18
SEPT
Dodge County
25
SEPT
Bradwell Institute
9
16
OCT
OCT
Spalding
Howard
23
OCT
@ Baldwin
30
OCT
@ Perry
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Westside (Macon)
Rutland
“But we have a few talented guys with experience, so we will need those players to step up into a leadership role and help the others mature in a hurry. Hopefully, we will get better each week and be competitive.” — Kagan McClain
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Since being promoted to head football coach in 2017, Kagan McClain has led the West Laurens Raiders to a 22-13 overall record with two playoff appearances and a region championship. In 2017, they got to the second round; last season they finished 11-2 and advanced to the third round, where they fell to eventual state champion Blessed Trinity. McClain will try to put his best foot forward with West Laurens returning just four starters on offense and only two starters back on defense. McClain said this will be a transition year for his young football team. “We lose a lot of talent and experience and will be in a rebuild mode,” McClain said. “But we have a few talented guys with experience, so we will need those players to step up into a leadership role and help the others mature in a hurry. Hopefully, we will get better each week and be competitive.”
McClain said he and his staff will rely heavily on senior wide receiver Tyler Franks and senior tight end Bradley Wilson. Senior defensive end T.J. Jones and defensive back and running back Ja’keil Edmond will need to step up and take charge of an otherwise mostly inexperienced and young defensive unit.
Head Coach: Kagan McClain
KEY LOSSES
The 2020 season could turn out to be the most challenging for McClain so far as a head coach. A .500 season isn’t out of the question, and with all that West Laurens has to replace, may be a realistic goal. I’ll take the Raiders to finish 6-6 this year. 2019 STATS 11
Wins 443 155 Written by: Nathan Dean Photography by: Lacey Crandell
2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
REGION 4 - 4A
overall record
WEST LAURENS
The losses include some big-time talent. All-time leading passer A.J. Mathis and all-time leading pass catcher Brent Carr at wide receiver are gone. Defensive losses include linebacker D’Eryk Jackson, who is now at Kentucky. Nose guard Spencer Dacus, defensive back and running back Shonta Burney, and strong safety and running back Daniel Dorsey have all graduated. Dorsey joins Carr at Savannah State.
ITG Next | 105
2019 STATS overall record 10
Wins
2 Losses
362
Points Scored Points Allowed
197 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of maysathletics.com
2
SEPT
@ West Forsyth
12
SEPT Riverdale
19
SEPT @ Grady
25
SEPT
@ Hughes
9
OCT
@ Hapeville
17
OCT
@ Druid Hills
23
OCT
Arabia Mountain
30
OCT
@ Stephenson
REGION 6 - 4A
MAYS
“We’re going to be very vanilla on offense this season.”
106 | itgnext.com
Head Coach: Niketa Battle
6
NOV
Miller Grove
20
NOV Marist
— Niketa Battle
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
With the Raiders coming off another great season - finishing 10-2 and advancing to the second round of the playoffs - they find themselves in one of the most successful runs in school history. Under head coach Niketa Battle, who begins his ninth season at the Atlanta area school, Mays has enjoyed success, advancing to the state playoffs every year, including the state title game in 2014. As the Raiders turn their attention to the 2020 season, this could be one of the more challenging campaigns in recent history. Mays returns three offensive starters and just two defensive starters. Battle said that his approach will simply have to adjust with the personnel, especially on offense. “We’re going to be very vanilla on offense this season,” Battle said. “We lost both quarterbacks with any meaningful experience, and we’ll have some young guys competing for the starting job, so we’ll have to keep it simple, at least to begin with.”
Running back Danny Conley is back and will assume the duties as the Raiders’ primary ball carrier out of the backfield. “Danny was our No. 2 back last season and ran well,” Battle said. “He had a couple of 100-yard rushing games.” Mays will have sophomore Nagari Tophia at receiver, hopefully providing the young quarterbacks with a good target in the passing game. “Nagari has very good speed and should open things up,” Battle said. On the offensive line is returning center Kaleb Wimberly, a two-year starter. Who he will be snapping the ball to remains a bit of a mystery right now, according to Battle. “We will have two sophomores and a freshman competing for the quarterback job,” Battle said.
KEY LOSSES Speaking of quarterback, Mays loses not one but two experienced players at the signal caller position. Starter Andrew Banks has graduated, and backup Phillip DeShazier has torn his ACL. That leaves the position up for grabs with the three underclassmen.
Battle has built a winning football machine at Mays, and while there are certainly obstacles to overcome this season, Raiders opponents shouldn’t expect a big falloff in 2020. Expect another playoff season at Mays.
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins
5
Losses
Points Scored
299
Points Allowed
272 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Cedar Shoals
4
SEPT
@ Clarke Central
11
SEPT
Oconee County
25
SEPT
@ St. Pius X
2
OCT
WinderBarrow
9
OCT
@ East Hall
16
OCT
Madison County
23
OCT
@ Jefferson
30
OCT
Flowery Branch
Head Coach: Leroy Ryals
6
20
NOV
NOV
North Oconee
@ Chestatee
WHAT TO EXPECT Since taking over a struggling football program at Cedar Shoals, head coach Leroy Ryals has the Jaguars in winning form once again. Before Ryals arrival in 2016, Cedar Shoals had not beaten cross-town rival Clarke Central in 10 years. With the momentum of back-to-back 8-4 seasons fueling their confidence, Ryals and the Jags will try to keep their success going into the upcoming season. The Jaguars move from Region 8-5A to 8-4A and will see a slate of new opponents. Cedar Shoals will lose their starting quarterback and some key linemen, but they will return their two standout running backs from a season ago.
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
6-4. A tough schedule will make it difficult for Cedar Shoals to make the playoffs, but they should do just enough to get into the first round.
REGION 8 - 4A
The Jaguars will lose some big bodies from last year. Gone are All-Region offensive tackle Steven Wakefield, a three-year starter who signed with Savannah State University, and defensive linemen Jaheim Wilson and Jalen Jackson. Wilson signed with Carson-Newman, while Jackson signed with Georgia Southern. Also rewarded for his stellar play at Cedar Shoals was linebacker Zykese Hancock, who signed with Antelope Valley College in California. The Jaguars will lose starting quarterback Jaylan Rusher, who has graduated.
CEDAR SHOALS
Four starters return on offense this season, including junior running back Jerdavian Colbert, who rushed for over 1,900 yards last year. His backfield mate, Caleb Allen, also returns to give the Jaguars one of the better rushing attacks around. The defense returns six starters, including the entire defensive backfield. Cornerbacks Renardo Faust and Toby Bolton, who started last year, are back, as is sophomore safety Juandarion Silas. Senior linebacker Teryone Campbell, an All-Region selection last year, will return too.
ITG Next | 107
4
SEPT St. Pius X
11
SEPT
@ Dawson County
18
SEPT Gainesville
2
OCT
@ Hiram
9
OCT Jefferson
23
OCT
North Oconee
30
OCT
@ Cedar Shoals
WHAT TO EXPECT
Madison County
13
NOV
@ Chestatee
20
NOV
@ East Hall
WHO’S BACK
The Falcons are coming off a 6-4 campaign that saw them jump out to a blazing start, winning their first five games. After that, however, Flowery Branch fell on hard times, losing four of their final five games, including a first-round playoff loss to Cartersville. Headed into 2020, there is reason to feel optimistic, especially about the offense, as head coach Ben Hall’s team will bring back eight starters on that side of the ball. They also bring back six on defense. “Last year our defense was very sound, but now we’ve lost our entire secondary, so I really don’t know,” he said. “Now, this year, it’s turned with the offense looking to be our strength, so we shall see.” The Falcons move from Region 7 to Region 8 in Class 4A this year.
“Now, this year, it’s turned with the offense looking to be our strength, so we shall see.” — Ben Hall
Returners on offense include offensive linemen Daniel Tulk and Cody Bradford. They’ll attempt to pave the way for running back Jaizen Ellingham. All three players are seniors and are being recruited to play at the next level. Quarterback David Renard will be back to lead the offense. He took over last year for starter Elijah Gainey, who injured his knee and missed the entire season. He has recovered and will play at South Alabama. On defense, the Falcons return defensive end Clay Anderson, senior defensive tackle Anthony Menjivar, and linebacker Jerzee Allentini, all three seniors. Hall and the Falcons will also have their kicker returning this season. Senior Maddux Trujillo is All-State caliber, according to Hall.
KEY LOSSES As Hall pointed out, his team loses their entire secondary from a year ago. “That’s going to take some work to overcome,” he said. Gone are strong safety and free safety brother combo Chase and Chandler Watson. The twins are headed to Georgia Southern to continue their careers. Another loss will be middle linebacker Connor Mayfield, who is headed to Cumberland University.
I expect good things for the Falcons this season with another playoff run out of a new region. 2019 STATS
REGION 8 - 4A
FLOWERY BRANCH
Head Coach: Ben Hall
6
NOV
108 | itgnext.com
overall record 6
Wins
289 143 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Flowery Branch
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
2019 STATS overall record Wins
6
7
Points Scored
255
Head Coach: Chris Smith
4
SEPT
@ Habersham Central
11
SEPT
Holy Innocents’
Losses
Points Allowed
336 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of MCHS Red Raiders Football via Twitter
18
SEPT Apalachee
25
SEPT
@ Stephens County
9
OCT
North Oconee
16
OCT
@ Cedar Shoals
30
OCT
@ Chestatee
6
NOV
@ Flowery Branch
13
20
NOV
NOV
East Hall
Jefferson
KEY LOSSES Gone is four-year starter at quarterback and three-year at safety Colby Smith, who has accepted an offer to play for Presbyterian College. The son of coach Chris Smith, who also played at Presbyterian, Colby Smith accounted for 1,000 yards rushing and 975 yards passing. As a safety, he had 90 tackles along with three interceptions. Also gone are Adam Echols, Harrison Kirkland, Justin Owens, and Lucas Childers.
Smith will have five starters return on offense, including fullback Dayton Gresham and offensive lineman Chandler Phillips, who is getting looks from colleges. Martavian Cooper returns at A-back and will be an important part of the Red Raiders’ plans this season. “Cooper is a great athlete,” Smith said. “We’ll expect big things from him.” Six return on defense, including defensive end Kiya Hubbard, who Smith described as “very athletic.” Another defensive end, Zahmerius Shiflet, returns, and nose guard Eli Akins returns from an injury sustained last year. He is healthy and ready to go, according to Smith.
If there was ever a coach meant to be at a certain program, it’s Chris Smith. Smith was raised in Madison County, played football for the Red Raiders, and now he’s entering his eighth season as the team’s head coach. He has been at Madison County for a total of 21 years and is a Red Raider through and through. His tenure at Madison County has also given him a close look at how lean things have been with the football program. That includes a 2-8 record two seasons ago and 1-9 in 2015. But, last season saw the program make the state playoffs and advance to the quarterfinals. That was the first time in Madison County High School football history that they had won a state playoff game - and they actually won two - on the road. Smith wants the team to appreciate the effort, but at the same time, he wants everyone to know that it’s a new year. “We enjoyed a very special season last year,” Smith said. “But, it’s like I tell my team: We are a blue collar bunch. No one’s ready to give us any credit, and that’s understandable. We’ve got to put together a few winning seasons back to back in order to get people’s respect. Until then, we’ll have to work hard for everything we have.”
Replacing a player like Colby Smith won’t be easy. But, coach Chris Smith is determined to change the culture at Madison County, and that includes having the next man step up. Expect a solid run by Madison County this season as they finish 7-6 and make another run at playoff success.
MADISON COUNTY
WHAT TO EXPECT
REGION 8 - 4A
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 109
Written by: Kyle Grondin
RUSHING LEADERS
RECEIVING LEADERS
Marquise Palmer Crisp Co. 1,571 YDS
Quintavious Lockett Douglass 1,528 YDS
Cameron Garnett Harlem 1,363 YDS
Alexander Patrick Jackson 1,213 YDS
Dakohta Sonnichsen Dawson Co. 891 YDS
Jake Johnson Oconee Co. 845 YDS
Danarius Hendricks Monroe Area 603 YDS
Sirad Bryant Crisp Co. 603 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH Peach Co. @ Crisp Co.
Hart Co. @ Oconee Co.
Sandy Creek @ Cedar Grove
Peach County has been a powerhouse in this classification for a few seasons now, but Crisp County reached the state championship last season and is loaded with talent. If you like physical football, this game is for you.
With two of the best tight ends in the state in Hart County’s Cane Berrong and Oconee County’s Jake Johnson, this game is two teams fighting for a region title and fighting for supremacy in a new-look North Georgia region.
Cedar Grove has owned this classification over the last four years, but Sandy Creek and Greater Atlanta Christian make this region tougher than ever. The final week of the season is a game that could decide the region title.
110 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES Cedar Grove runs this classification, with three state championships in the last four seasons. In 2020, however, they’ll face plenty of challenges. Crisp County has 19 starters returning, and the classification welcomes Sandy Creek and Oconee County, two really strong programs. This classification is deep and loaded with talent for what are considered smaller schools.
TACKLE LEADERS
INTERCEPTION LEADERS Sirad Bryant
Nolan Johnson
Crisp Co. 6
Sandy Creek 167 TKS
Khalil Watkins
Chris Paul Jr.
East Jackson 5
Crisp Co. 157 TKS
Cedric Cullars
Preston Lavant
Harlem 5
Crisp Co. 126 TKS
Donelius Johnson
Dorrian Smith
Pierce Co. 122 TKS
Peach Co. 4
TOP 10 RANKINGS 3A
1
2
Cedar Grove
6
3 Crisp Co.
Pierce Co.
Peach Co.
Hart Co.
Sandy Creek
9
8
7
5
4
GACS
Oconee Co.
10 Douglass
Rockmart
ITG Next | 111
4
SEPT
@ Liberty County
11
SEPT
Wayne County
Claxton
2
OCT
Clinch County
9
OCT
@ Fitzgerald
16
OCT Islands
23
OCT
@ Brantley County
6
13
NOV
NOV
Long County
@ Tattnall County
20
NOV
@ Appling County
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Through 11 games, Pierce County looked like legitimate challengers to the 3A state championship. The Bears offense was dominant as they went 11-0, sweeping for the Region 1 title and winning 49-7 in the first round of the playoffs. They averaged 42 points per game and had a rushing attack that averaged 240 yards rushing per game. But a shocking double overtime thriller against Hart County ended up with the Bears losing 32-29, and Pierce County’s fantastic season ended in the second round of the playoffs. There’s once again reason for optimism at Pierce County with an incredibly talented senior class taking over this season. Quarterback Jermaine Brewton returns after throwing for 1,313 yards and rushing for 627 yards. He was paired with star running back C.J. Newton, and he returns as the top option once again after running for 7.5 yards per carry. They should be dominant once again with their leading passer, rusher, receiver, and tackler from 2019 while playing in the same region as last season after realignment.
Along with Brewton and Newton, Pierce County brings back sophomore D.J. Bell, who put together an impressive first year for the Bears. He had 59 tackles and was the leading receiver with 264 yards and three touchdowns. He should take on a larger role for the Bears in 2020.
KEY LOSSES Avery Jernigan is the star offensive lineman who is now enrolled at Auburn. He was one of the key cogs to the running game last season. The three-star man was the top player for the Bears. Along with Jernigan, the second leading tackler and second leading rusher in the Quavien Bell also graduated. He did a little bit of everything for the Bears, finishing with over 1,100 total yards, 71 tackles, four sacks, four fumble recoveries, and an interception. He will be difficult to replace at the next level.
9-1. Pierce County are favorites again in a region they dominated last season. Their non-conference schedule was beefed up this season with games against Wayne County, Fitzgerald, and Clinch County. They may slip up once, but they’ll be set up for a run to the 3A championship.
2019 STATS
REGION 1 - 3A
PIERCE COUNTY
Head Coach: Ryan Herring
18
SEPT
112 | itgnext.com
overall record 11
Wins 488 142 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Milla Photography
1 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
2019 STATS overall record 6
Wins
6
Losses
Points Scored
229
Points Allowed
337 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of Keunta Holley via Hudl
4
SEPT
@ Westover
10
SEPT
@ Hardaway
18
SEPT Monroe
2
OCT
Central (Macon)
9
OCT
@ Peach County
16
OCT Upson-Lee
WHAT TO EXPECT
Jackson
6
NOV
Crisp County
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Pike County
@ Mary Persons
“We lost 24 seniors from last year’s squad, and they all contributed greatly to our success during their time here.” — Ross Couch
WHO’S BACK Senior center Kameron Dunnings was an All-Region selection last season and will return to anchor the offensive line. Couch calls Dunnings a “vocal” leader. Senior Michael Johnson was the team’s leading receiver from a year ago and was yet another All-Region selection. Senior defensive backs Breylon Green and Jawaski Whitehead return to lead the defense.
Last season’s quarterback, Kanova Willoughby, is gone. He threw for over 2,000 yards and rushed for another 600 yards. He will be hard to replace. His twin, Quevoluia Willoughby, was a favorite target for his brother last year as a receiver, and he too graduated. Receiver Trevian Thomas, who also played defensive back for the Panthers, is playing for Arkansas State. Athlete and defensive back P.J. Larry will be missed as he takes his talent to New Mexico Military College. Linebacker A.J. Stokes and defensive end Jawarren Lewis have also graduated.
Despite having a young team, Couch will find a way to put them in a good position to win ball games. But, he knows it’s going to take some work. Look for Americus-Sumter to finish 7-4 with a first-round playoff appearance.
REGION 2 - 3A
KEY LOSSES
AMERICUS-SUMTER
The Panthers finished 3-7 in 2016. That was before coach Ross Couch came to town and turned things around. That has sort of become the “calling card” of Couch. At Bradwell Institute, he took over a program that had won just three games in as many seasons, then turned around the cadet program. At Americus-Sumter, Couch has done the same thing, making his team better than before he got there. Couch wants to maintain the success that he, his players, and, of course, the fans have come to expect. Last year, Americus-Sumter finished 6-6 with a trip to the second round of the playoffs, where they lost to Sandy Creek. Heading into the upcoming season, Couch will have six offensive and three defensive starters returning. Despite the contributors from last season coming back, he will have just 10 seniors returning to the program. The starting quarterback and his 2,000 passing yards are gone, so Couch will depend more on his running game this season.
23
OCT
Head Coach: Ross Couch
ITG Next | 113
Call 229-276-2286 now for an appointment!
YOUR CHOICE FOR ORTHOPEDIC EXCELLENCE
Exceptional Care CLOSE TO HOME
Robert Bartosh, MD Orthopedic Surgeon
B.T. Davis, FNP-C Orthopedics
James Fordyce, DO Orthopedic Surgeon
O R T H O P E D I C S
Specializing in the Surgical Treatment of Total Joint Replacement of Knee, Hip and Shoulder | Arthroscopy of Knee and Shoulder | Hand Surgery Foot and Ankle Surgery | Rotator Cuff Repair I Adult Fracture Repair | Carpal Tunnel / Cubital Tunnel Surgery We welcome every opportunity to serve you. 114 | itgnext.com
910 North 5th St., Cordele • 229-276-2286 • www.CrispRegional.org
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins
4
Points Scored
399
Head Coach: Brad Harber
4
SEPT
Tift County
11
SEPT
Houston County
Losses
Points Allowed
175 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
25
SEPT @ ELCA
2
OCT
@ Jackson
9
16
OCT
OCT
@ Upson-Lee
Mary Persons
23
OCT
Peach County
6
NOV
@ AmericusSumter
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Central (Macon)
Pike County
WHAT TO EXPECT It was a back and forth match. The Cougars were down by 14 on two different occasions in the 3A state championship game to Cedar Grove. They battled back, but just ran out of time as they ended the season as runner-up. Crisp County showed significant growth throughout the season, starting 1-2 on the season, battling back to .500 at 3-3, then winning eight straight all the way to the championship game. They were dynamic on offense, and a fantastic defensive team created a lot of turnovers and were one of the best teams in all of South Georgia. After the growth shown in 2019, 2020 is shaping up to be a tremendous season for the Cougars, with much of their talent returning on offense and defense. Now, rather than the excitement of the state championship run, the expectation will be a state championship in Cordele.
Who isn’t back for Crisp County this season? The Cougars have a loaded roster on both sides of the ball. Chris Paul Jr., the recent Nebraska commit, was the leading tackler with 157 last season and was the top defensive player along with safety and wide receiver Sirad Bryant. Bryant finished with six interceptions and is the top player in the secondary. Offensively, along with Bryant, quarterback A.J. Lofton and running back Marquise Palmer both return. Palmer finished with 1,572 yards and 17 touchdowns and was the key cog for the Cougars, who rushed for 3,000 yards last season.
Not a lot is leaving this talented Crisp County roster, but their second leading tackler, Jayren Fox, is the biggest departure. He finished the season with 146 tackles and seven sacks. He helped make up one of the best linebacking corps in their region.
8-2. A difficult region against Peach County may slip up Crisp County. But they’ll have no problem reaching the playoffs and making a run back to the 3A state championship.
CRISP COUNTY
KEY LOSSES
REGION 2 - 3A
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 115
SAFETY/WIDE RECEIVER | CRISP COUNTY
TOP OFFERS
OUTSTANDING PLAYER
116 | itgnext.com
SIRAD BRYANT
ITG Next | 117
2019 STATS overall record Wins
6
6
Points Scored
309
Head Coach: Michael Youngblood
THOMSON
Jefferson County
11
SEPT
@ Grovetown
Points Allowed
257 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Thomson High School via Facebook
18
SEPT
25
@ Washington County
SEPT
Ware County
9
OCT
Morgan County
16
OCT
@ Richmond Academy
23
OCT
Cross Creek
30
OCT
@ Burke County
6
NOV Harlem
20
NOV
@ Hephzibah
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Thomson is historically a great football program. With five state championships in their history, they’re always in the conversation, even with a few down years here and there. This past season they finished with a .500 record at 6-6. After five wins and five losses in the regular season, they split their two playoff games, winning the first round 34-0 over Hardaway before losing 35-0 to Cartersville in Round 2. They’re a proud football program that could see a lot of improvement in 2020. The Bulldogs had a young roster in 2019. A lot of their team leaders were sophomores and juniors, and they could put it together in 2020. The Bulldogs also move down to 3A in 2020, and they should be able to compete for a region championship.
Tay Martin has the makings to be a really productive player at quarterback. As a sophomore, he threw for 776 yards and ran for 1,110 yards, both of which led the team. He had 14 total touchdowns, and if he can limit the turnovers, he should be one of the top players for the Bulldogs once again. On defense, Keshon Germany and Skyler Lewis were two of the top three leading tacklers on the team last season. They formed a good linebacker group that will have a big impact on the Bulldogs’ success in 2020. Lewis in particular will be tasked with getting a good pass rush for the Bulldogs. The team had 13 sacks last year for the season, and 10 of those sacks were from players who graduated.
KEY LOSSES
REGION 4 - 3A
4
SEPT
Losses
118 | itgnext.com
The Bulldogs do lose some players on defense, particularly Dylan Hobbs. Hobbs was the top running back and also the second leading tackler at middle linebacker position. A two-way player of his caliber will be difficult to replicate. Along with Hobbs, Rodney Lazenby did just about everything for Thomson’s defense. He led the team with 42 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two interceptions. He was all over the field.
7-3. THE BULLDOGS HAVE TALENTED PLAYERS ACROSS THEIR ROSTER AND WILL GET BACK TO WINNING WAYS IN 2020.
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins
2 Losses Points Scored
500
Points Allowed
168 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of cgsaintsfootball.org
4
SEPT
Rockledge (FL)
11
SEPT
@ Tucker
18
SEPT
@ Colquitt County
2
OCT
@ Greater Atlanta Christian
9
OCT
Carver (Atlanta)
15
OCT
@ Redan
30
6
OCT
NOV
Salem
Westminster
Head Coach: Miguel Patrick
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Douglass
Sandy Creek
WHAT TO EXPECT When you win three state championships in four years, there’s not much you think a team could do better. Last year, the Saints scored 33 points per game on offense while only giving up about 13 points per game on defense. They were one of the top small schools in the state on their way to a state championship in 3A. There only two losses came at the hands of Central in Phenix City, Alabama, and McEachern, two schools that are much larger than Cedar Grove. The Saints rolled through their region, winning their final five games by a combined point total of 209-10. They didn’t have a win in single digits until the state championship, where they beat Crisp County 21-14. They had a 14-point lead until just about a minute to go in the game. 2020 should be much of the same for Cedar Grove. They lose some talent, particularly on defense, but have enough players and have built themselves into a football institution. They will be contending for a state championship once again.
WHO’S BACK
Cedar Grove currently has 32 players playing in college football, more than any other team in Class 3A. That kind of record means there’s constantly a loss in talent. Three key defenders all graduated last season. Linebacker Isaiah Ratcliff is one of the biggest losses on the team, along with defensive back Tee Denson and defensive end Alvin Williams. Both Denson and Williams have signed on to Power Five football programs at the next level.
9-1. Cedar Grove’s region gets a little tougher with GAC and Sandy Creek, but they will still go undefeated in the region on the way to competing for a state title.
REGION 5 - 3A
KEY LOSSES
CEDAR GROVE
This team returns a lot of talent, particularly at the skill positions on offense and in the secondary on defense. The two most talented players are in the class of 2022 in wide receiver Janiran Bonner and Rashod Dubinion. Bonner is one of the top rated receivers in the country early in his recruiting cycle, while Dubinion is a spectacular athlete who makes plays at running back and in the secondary. Along with the star athletes, defensive end Christen Miller, running back Langston White, and defensive back Jordan Grier help make up the rest of the roster for Cedar Grove. Once again, this team is deep and talented.
ITG Next | 119
2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins
2 Losses
468
Head Coach: Tim Hardy
4
SEPT
@ Christian Brothers (TN)
11
SEPT Lovett
Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of gacspartans.com
18
SEPT
2
Christ Presbyterian (TN)
OCT
Cedar Grove
9
OCT
@ Westminster
16
OCT
Douglass (ATL)
The Spartans are on quite a roll. They have finished the last six seasons as the top seed in Region 7-3A. “We’ve had a great run here at GAC,” said head coach Tim Hardy, who is entering his eighth season at Greater Atlanta Christian in Norcross. Numerous challenges will be facing the Spartans once the season gets underway. They lose a number of key playmakers from last year’s team, which advanced to the Class 3A state semifinals. However, Hardy said his team also has a great rising senior class. “We’re very excited about those guys,” he said. “We’ll be leaning on them for leadership as we move forward.” They will also face new region opponents, as they move from Region 7 to Region 5 in 3A. “We’ll be ready for whatever challenge comes our way,” Hardy said.
REGION 5 - 3A
GREATER ATLANTA CHRISTIAN
Points Allowed
210
WHAT TO EXPECT
120 | itgnext.com
Points Scored
The Spartans have truly established a legacy of excellence for other teams to strive for. They have six straight region championships and have stayed in the top-10 rankings for over 100 straight weeks. Despite the losses of some good talent, Greater Atlanta Christian will be right back in the hunt for a state championship in GHSA Class 3A.
30
OCT
@ Sandy Creek
6
NOV
@ Salem
13
19
NOV
NOV
Carver (ATL)
@ Redan
“We’re very excited about those guys. We’ll be leaning on them for leadership as we move forward.” — Tim Hardy
WHO’S BACK Greater Atlanta Christian will return five starters on defense and four on offense. Junior lineman Addison Nichols returns and will play on both the offense and defensive lines. He is a national recruit, as virtually every major college is inquiring about the 6-foot5 lineman. Senior lineman Wil Calhoun also returns, and he too will play both offense and defense. Senior Thomas Lowman returns at tight end and linebacker. Senior Joe Rose returns at safety. Senior Daymond Fleming will move into the starting quarterback position with the departure of last year’s starter.
KEY LOSSES Speaking of last year’s starter at QB, Jackson Hardy has graduated and will attend Richmond University. The All-State selection is one of a handful of key starters that will have to be replaced. Other All-State performers who have graduated include lineman Myles Hinton, who will attend Stanford. Linebacker Choe Bryant-Strother will attend UCLA, running back Tyler Bride has committed to Georgia Southern, and receiver Christian Thomas will head to Georgia State University.
2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins
2 Losses
596
Head Coach: Brett Garvin
5
SEPT
@ Northgate
Points Scored Points Allowed
210 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Sandy Creek Football via Twitter
18
2
25
SEPT
SEPT
Newnan
@ Starr’s Mill
OCT Westminster
9
OCT
@ Douglass
16
OCT Salem
30
OCT
Greater Atlanta Christian
6
NOV
@ Carver (Atlanta)
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
The Fighting Patriots had one of the best offenses in the state last season. They averaged 43 points per game and dominated Class 4A into the playoffs before falling in the semifinals. They fell to state runners-up Oconee County 35-28, but had what was perhaps one of their strongest senior classes of all time. Other than the class from 2009-12 that won three state championships, it doesn’t get much better than the numbers this team put up last season. The Fighting Patriots are a difficult team to gage. They graduated a lot of players, but also moved down to Class 3A, where they last won two state championships. This team also has history on their side. They’ve been one of the best programs in the state since the turn of the century. They have seven or more wins every season since 2001, and I don’t see that stopping in 2020.
Nolan Johnson and Jared Davis are the important cogs on defense returning for Sandy Creek. Both played a few different positions across the defense and were the top two leading tacklers on the team. They combined for a ridiculous 272 tackles in 2019. They are joined by Kylan Wimbish, who had 61 tackles of his own to go along with four interceptions. They should make this defense solid once again.
20
NOV
Cedar Grove
Redan
KEY LOSSES
SANDY CREEK
When I said the Patriots lost a lot of players, I mean they lost a lot. Sandy Creek had a quarterback who threw for 3,880 yards, a running back who had 1,324 yards and 30 touchdowns, and their top four receivers combined for 3,331 yards and 35 touchdowns. All of that production graduated. The Fighting Patriots had eight Division I players graduate in 2020, and of those the biggest name was Brian Branch, the four-star player who has since signed with Alabama. There’s a lot of talent and production that will be difficult to replicate.
REGION 5 - 3A
6-4. Moving down to 3A will help, but this season will still test Sandy Creek. Teams like Cedar Grove and GACS won’t make it easy for them.
13
NOV
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms!
ITG Next | 121
11
SEPT
@ Banneker
18
25
SEPT
SEPT
Wesleyan
Callaway
2
OCT
@ Salem
9
OCT
Sandy Creek
16
30
OCT
OCT
@ Greater Atlanta Christian
Carver (Atlanta)
WHAT TO EXPECT The Astros will return seven starters on the offensive side and five on defense in 2020. Head coach Rodney Cofield begins his ninth season at the Atlanta high school.
Head Coach: Rodney Cofield
“We lost some talent on that side of the ball, but every coach has to go through it,” Cofield said.
As if the losses on defense aren’t enough to deal with, the Astros will be changing regions and moving up in classification this year, going from Region 6-2A to Region 5-3A. The Astros finished 9-1 last season, securing a home playoff game as the No. 2 seed. But, after a couple of wins, Douglass’ season came to an end at Callaway in the quarterfinals.
@ Redan
13
NOV
Cedar Grove
20
NOV
@ Westminster
WHO’S BACK Returning to lead the Astros offense is junior running back Quintavious Lockett, one of the top backs in the country. He already has offers from several schools, including Maryland and Miami with more to come. He ran for 32 touchdowns last season with over 2,000 yards rushing. Quarterback Quandarius Sterling returns, and his two main targets are also back. They are receivers Quientin Williams and Gaddis Heath. Defense returners include linebacker Aric Parker, who led the team in tackles last year.
KEY LOSSES Douglass will miss offensive and defensive tackle Carlos Allen, who has signed with Kennesaw State University. Defensive tackle Isaiah Washington will attend Carson-Newman on scholarship, and safety Dre Towns takes his talent to Tennessee Tech.
2019 STATS
REGION 5 - 3A
DOUGLASS
Things could get pretty tough for Cofield’s Astros with the move to 3A. Their new region foes include the likes of Greater Atlanta Christian, Cedar Grove, and Carver. With a back like Lockett carrying the load on offense, I wouldn’t count out Douglass just yet, though. Despite the move to 3A, I predict the Astros to finish 8-4 with another solid season.
6
NOV
122 | itgnext.com
overall record 11
Wins 476 235 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy Douglass Astros Football via Facebook
2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
4
SEPT
@ Elbert County
11
SEPT
White County
18
SEPT
@ North Hall
25
SEPT
Crescent (SC)
2
OCT
Westside (SC)
16
OCT
Franklin County
23
OCT
@ Oconee County
6
NOV
@ Stephens County
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ East Jackson
Monroe Area
2019 STATS overall record 10
Wins
3 Losses
457
Head Coach: Rance Gillespie
Points Scored Points Allowed
212 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Hart County Football via Twitter
WHAT TO EXPECT 2019 was the best finish in nearly five years for the Bulldogs. The small North Georgia school finished 10-3 and reached the quarterfinals before falling to Greater Atlanta Chrisitan School in a close 17-16 game. Not much separated the teams at the top of 3A, and Hart County proved they could compete with the best of the best. Rance Gillespie has built this program, and it is now time to prove if they have the depth and staying power to compete for multiple years in 2020. There’s a lot of talent still on this team, and they look to get past the quarterfinals and compete for a state championship.
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
8-2. Welcoming Oconee County into a difficult region with Monroe Area will make it difficult, but the Bulldogs should see another deep playoff run.
REGION 8 - 3A
One All-State player graduated from Hart County, defensive end Kaimon Rucker. He was ranked as high as No. 136 in the state overall and committed to the University of North Carolina. He finished with 49 tackles, 7.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and 13 pressures despite missing multiple games due to injury last season. Overall, he had 15.5 sacks in his final two years with the Bulldogs.
HART COUNTY
The most prominent name on the roster is Cane Berrong. He is rated as the top tight end in the state and has the ability to line up next to the offensive line and block for Hart County. He is also talented enough that he can split out wide and make plays as a wide receiver. He’s got the size, speed, and versatility to be a difference maker for Hart County, and it’s clear to see why Notre Dame wanted him so badly as he committed to play for the Irish. Along with Berrong, the 3A Offensive Player of the Year from the AJC also returns in Malachi Thomas. Thomas was an electric running back who finished with 1,962 yards on the ground last season. He’s been approached by Division I programs as his stock continues to rise, and he and Berrong will be the key players once again for the offense. On defense, safety Monte Maxwell is the top returning player. He’s a big-time athlete for the Bulldogs and finished last season with offers from programs like USF and Cincinnati. He’ll be a key player at the back of the defense for Hart.
ITG Next | 123
Written by: Kyle Grondin
PASSING LEADERS
RECEIVING LEADERS
Gunner Stockton Rabun Co. 3,473 YDS
Ronnie Baker Thomasville 2,579 YDS
Travion Solomon
Adriel Clark Rabun Co. 1,069 YDS
Ricardo Johnson Thomasville 906 YDS
Cedric Seabrough
Northeast (Macon) 1,476 YDS
Swainsboro 800 YDS
Luke Holloway
Frederick Seabrough
Fannin Co. 1,338 YDS
Swainsboro 703 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH Fitzgerald @ Thomasville
Washington Co. @ Bleckley Co.
Rabun Co. @ Union Co.
These two rivals represent two of the top teams in the classification and two teams ready to duke it out for regional supremacy. Thomasville brings a lot of talent back from their semifinal run, while Fitzgerald is on the rise behind offensive mastermind and head coach Tucker Pruitt. Expect a shootout in Thomasville.
Washington County is not to trifled with. After all, they were the one team to knock off Dublin last season. Even if Dublin’s starters were rested, that’s an impressive feat. They take on a rising program in Bleckley County, which has the best player in the state of Georgia, offensive tackle Amarius Mims.
Any time Gunner Stockton takes the field, it’s must-see action. He’s that good and that fun to watch. He’ll face his toughest test against Union County in the regular season on Oct. 30. Expect Union County to give it their all to bring down the region giants.
124 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES This is once again one of the more wide open classifications, due to Brooks County and Dublin leaving the classification and the overall depth of the class. 12 teams have legitimate claims that they can be one of the best, and that makes it difficult to pan out which one will come out on top. Can Callaway keep it rolling without Tank Bigsby? Will Fitzgerald reach their full potential?
TACKLE LEADERS
RUSHING LEADERS
Ty Anderson Thomasville 128 TKS
Hoff Windham Rabun Co. 89 TKS
Zabrien Harden Swainsboro 86 TKS
Tank Morris Toombs Co. 85 TKS
Phillip Johnson Temple 1,665 YDs
Jonah Daniel Union Co. 1,570 YDs
Lashaun Lester Chattooga 1,517 YDs
Daylon Gordon Dodge Co. 1,448 YDs
TOP 10 RANKINGS 2A
1
2
Thomasville
6
3 Rabun Co.
7 Bremen
Bleckley Co.
5
4 Callaway
Fitzgerald
9
8 Jeff Davis
Jefferson Co.
Washington Co.
10 Union Co.
ITG Next | 125
Make it a
Chaparral
Summer 300 INDUSTRIAL PARK BLVD. NASHVILLE, GA. 31639 www.chaparralboats.com
2019 STATS overall record Wins
2
8
199
Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
441 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Eric Vinson
4
SEPT
@ Long County
11
SEPT
Lanier County
18
2
SEPT
OCT
@ Bacon County
@ Toombs County
9
OCT
Tattnall County
16
OCT Fitzgerald
23
OCT @ Cook
30
OCT
Early County
Head Coach: Tim Alligood
6
13
NOV
NOV
@ Worth County
Thomasville
WHAT TO EXPECT It was a difficult season for Berrien, with the Rebels struggling to a 2-8 record last year. After starting with a 2-1 record, including wins over Bacon County and Atkinson County, it looked like Berrien might be a surprise team in the Region 1 season. But then they lost their final seven games, including all of their region games. The Rebels’ closest margin of victory was 34 points in their regional losses. This season has a lot of uncertainty again for Berrien, with many of their top players from their 2-8 season graduating, including their top rushers and top two leading tacklers in 2019. For 2020, the Rebels will need to find some consistency on the defensive side of the ball. They gave up too many points each game and gave up 42 or more points in six of their eight losses. If they can battle defensively, they may be able to pull off some upsets in 2020.
KEY LOSSES
Chase Walden returns as one of the top tacklers, along with Artavious Williams. Williams finished with 521 rushing yards to go along with an interception. He’ll take over the lead running back duties in 2020.
Their top two leading rushers in 2019, Ja’marquis Johnson and Gerrick Johnson, both depart. They combined for 1,271 yards rushing and 17 touchdowns and were the bright spot in Berrien’s season. Along with them, the top two tacklers for Berrien also depart in Blaine King and Jaden Wheeler. They combined for 150 tackles last season.
REGION 1 - 2A
This team has a lot of holes to fill on both sides of the ball and could see themselves struggling once again in region play.
BERRIEN
WHO’S BACK
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms!
ITG Next | 127
4
SEPT
@ Ware County
18
SEPT Pelham
25
SEPT
Brooks County
2
OCT
RandolphClay
9
OCT
Brantley County
16
OCT
@ Worth County
23
30
OCT
OCT
@ Thomasville
Berrien
6
NOV
Early County
13
NOV
@ Fitzgerald
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Jamie Rodgers
Getting to the second round of the playoffs in his first year has to be viewed as a success for coach Jamie Rodgers. The Hornets finished 4-8 and second in the region during the 2019 season and then upset Windsor Forest in the first round of the playoffs by a score of 7-6. Despite the below .500 record, it was an improvement from the 3-8 season from the year before. The Hornets were built on a solid defensive side of the ball and showed improvement over the second half of the season. They won four of their final five games and scored 29 or more points in three of those wins. The defense, led by Kenneth Mathis, gave up only 25 points per game. In 2020, Cook will have to improve on the offensive side of the ball. They only averaged 18.45 points per game, and the Hornets’ only playoff win was off of a punt block returned for a touchdown. If they can score some more points during the season in 2A, the Hornets could be a dangerous football team in their new stadium.
WHO’S BACK Andre Jackson and Omar Pickett are the duo that needs to get the offense going in 2020. Jackson was the quarterback, and Pickett was a two-way talent at wide receiver and cornerback. They showed good chemistry throughout the season and could be what allows the Hornets to make the playoffs again in 2020.
KEY LOSSES Mathis was the top defensive player at Cook last season. The linebacker has moved on to one of the top preparatory schools in the country at MTI Prep for the next season and was listed as an All-Region player for the Hornets. Offensively, Keyshawn Lucy departs as quarterback. He was also All-Region in the 2019 season and was the top runner for Cook last season. He’ll be the biggest hole in the offense this upcoming season.
REGION 1 - 2A
COOK
This team moves down to 2A and has some winnable games on their schedule. The Hornets should be playoff teams once again. 2019 STATS overall record Wins
5
8
203
Losses Points Scored
306
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
101 W 5th St Adel, GA 31620 adeldental.com
WE HELP OUR PATIENTS FEEL LIKE FAMILY HERE. 128 | itgnext.com
206 East 4th Street Adel, GA 31620 (229)896-5176 Make us a part of your team.
Get Ready for your future! Earn college credit while in high school To learn more about Dual Enrollment, talk to your high school counselor or a Wiregrass High School Coordinator today!
Call 229-333-2100 or visit wiregrass.edu today!
ACCREDITED
program
Equal Opportunity Institution / A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia / WGTC is accredited by SACSCOC
4
SEPT @ Cairo
11
SEPT
Irwin County
18
SEPT
Turner County
25
SEPT
@ Dodge County
9
16
OCT
OCT
Pierce County
@ Berrien
23
OCT
@ Early County
30
OCT
Worth County
6
13
NOV
@ Thomasville
NOV Cook
2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins
395 280
5
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
Head Coach: Tucker Pruitt
WHAT TO EXPECT Chance Gamble is the star receiver and defensive back returning to Fitzgerald in 2020, after picking up a Class 2A All-State selection in 2019 at defensive back. After a second-round exit, Gamble and company look to bring one of the winningest teams in the lower classifications. The Purple Hurricane ran into a Tank Bigsby-sized wall in the second round of the GHSA playoffs last season and finished with an 8-4 record. This Purple Hurricane roster is deep and talented and will once again be a contender for the 2020 season. This team only had nine seniors on the roster and should be one of the best teams in the region. After losing to Thomasville and Brooks County last season, the Purple Hurricane has an opportunity to seek some vengeance in 2020. Brooks County is down to Class 1A, and it opens up a chance for Fitzgerald to compete for a region title. The growth of some of the skill position players for the Purple Hurricane creates a big chance. The wildcard for Fitzgerald is much-hyped quarterback Chris Martin. The freshman talent may get a chance to start with one of the most talented skill position cores in 2A, and his ability to throw the ball is evident. Even in just his freshman year, he should make an impact.
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
9-1. The Purple Hurricane has the talent to win a lot of games this season and should be one of the best in the classification.
REGION 1 - 2A
Tony Duffie is the biggest loss on the offensive side of the ball for Fitzgerald. The big offensive lineman was one of the stalwarts to the Purple Hurricane offense. He moves on to Reinhardt and will need to be replaced at the guard position. Alex Martinez also departs after being one of the top kickers in the state last season.
FITZGERALD
Along with Gamble, Mario Clark is the biggest returning player for Fitzgerald. He’s the star running back and linebacker who will be the key cog to setting the tone for the offense and getting the receivers open downfield. Clark will be essential to Fitzgerald’s success.
ITG Next | 131
4
SEPT
@ Brooks County
11
SEPT
Thomas County Central
18
SEPT @ Cairo
25
SEPT
@ Bainbridge
2
OCT
Godby (FL)
16
OCT
Early County
23
30
OCT
@ Worth County
6
OCT
NOV
Cook
Fitzgerald
13
NOV
@ Berrien
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins
445
Head Coach: Zach Grage
370
5
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Eric Vinson
WHAT TO EXPECT The fourth year of Zach Grage’s tenure at Thomasville High School might’ve been the best yet. They went 12-1 in 2017, but this year they showed a ton of growth in battling back to a 9-5 record and reaching the semifinals of the 2A tournament, further than they did in 2017. They even knocked off Rabun County, who had the top quarterback in the state in Gunner Stockton. Now the expectations are even higher. The Bulldogs bring back a lot of talent and are expected to be one of the many contenders for the 2A state championship. Thomasville brings back some of their best players on both sides of the ball, and after running the table in region play, they look to do so again. The two state championship finalists from last year have also left the 2A class, which leaves an opening for the Bulldogs.
Quite a lot of talent is back for Thomasville. Quarterback Ronnie Baker made significant strides as a sophomore. He showed a lot of poise and was one of the best quarterbacks in the classification in the second half of the season. He finished with 32 total touchdowns last year, while throwing for 2,571 yards and rushing for 694. He was a dynamic dual-threat quarterback for the Bulldogs. The offense also brings back the top two running backs from last season: rising sophomore Ricky Fulton and rising junior Malik Harper. Fulton finished with 975 yards in his freshman season. At wide receiver, Ricardo Johnson had 905 yards receiving and nine touchdowns. This offense has a lot of talent returning. On defense, Ty Anderson returns at the linebacker position. He was one of the top players in the region last year, finishing with 128 tackles, eight sacks, one interception, and one fumble recovery.
REGION 1 - 2A
THOMASVILLE
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES Payton Singletary is the biggest loss for the Bulldogs. The two-way star played both defensive end and tight end last season and finished with 30 tackles and three sacks on defense to go along with 446 yards and seven receiving touchdowns on offense. Singletary was an important piece on both sides of the ball who is now playing for Cincinnati. Another player gone is the second leading tackler for Thomasville, linebacker Jashawun Thornton. He finished with 79 tackles and three sacks last season.
7-3. Thomasville has a difficult schedule once again, with games on the road at Brooks County, Bainbridge, and Cairo. They’ll lose a few games, but will be geared up and ready for playoffs again.
Stephen Gainous, Agent 229-226-7656 stephen@rosecitysf.com 117 W Jefferson St Thomasville, GA 31792 132 | itgnext.com
Auto Home Life Health Bank
WE PROUDLY SUPPORT LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS
griffinchevyga.com Proud to Support the Worth Rams
1006 W. Franklin Street Sylvester, GA 31791
Snipes Piggly Wiggly 631 E Franklin St Sylvester | Georgia 31791
Sylvester, Ga
(888) 401-2805 Highway 82 West, Sylvester, GA 31791 www.sunbeltsylvester.com
4
SEPT
@ Turner County
11
SEPT
@ Mitchell County
18
SEPT Dougherty
9
25
SEPT
OCT
@ Rutland
Tift County
16
23
OCT
OCT
Cook
Thomasville
30
OCT
@ Fitzgerald
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Worth County hasn’t had a lot of reason for optimism the past few seasons. The Rams have improved their last three seasons and were even one win away from a surprise playoff appearance last year. But now, in 2020, Worth County has reason for optimism. Phillip Ironside takes over as head coach for the Rams after he left Hillgrove. He wanted the challenge of coaching in South Georgia, and now he’s got it. He’ll take over the program after a 2-8 finish last season, but the Rams have had an influx of middle school talent on the rise and are looking for a big season in the coming years. They move down to 2A this season and will look to be in the conversation at the end of the year.
For the Rams, there’s a lot of young talent on this team, starting with middle linebacker Quentin Cole. He finished second on the team with 37 tackles last season as a freshman and looks to take over as the leader of the defense in 2020. On offense, Shaun Harrell is the best at Worth County. He finished with 525 yards of offense with five touchdowns last season. If Worth County is to have a big year, Harrell is the reason why.
13
NOV
@ Early County
Berrien
Head Coach: Phillip Ironside
1st Year Head Coach
KEY LOSSES Leading rusher David Wilcher graduated; he finished with 507 yards on the ground and four touchdowns on the season. He moves on after a successful Rams career. Also gone for Worth County is Joseph Jones, who played on both sides of the ball. He is a twoway standout player at linebacker and fullback. He had 433 yards on the offensive side of the ball and 44 tackles on defense.
2019 STATS
Wins
8
173
Points Scored 431
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Eric Vinson
Losses
Points Allowed
REGION 1 - 2A
overall record 2
WORTH COUNTY
This team will see improvement again in 2020 and have a competitive team.
6
NOV
Stuart Pate 229-776-6906 www.stuartpate.com
Providing Insurance and Financial Services ITG Next | 135
4
SEPT Rutland
11
SEPT
@ Atkinson County
18
SEPT
@ Brantley County
25
SEPT
Tattnall County
2
OCT
@ Long County
16
OCT
Bacon County
23
OCT
@ Vidalia
30
OCT
Toombs County
6
NOV
@ Swainsboro
13
NOV
East Laurens
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Lance Helton
All looked well for Jeff Davis as they started 6-0 on the season and marched toward a potential playoff berth and battle for a state championship. But everything flipped in the second half of the season. The Yellow Jackets lost three of their last four games in region play, costing themselves the opportunity to play in the state playoffs. They gave themselves a chance the second-to-last week of the season against Swainsboro with an upset 21-14 victory, but losing to Metter closed the case on the season for good. In 2020, Jeff Davis will look to find more consistency. They have a fair amount of returning talent on the team, and many believe the Yellow Jackets could become a major factor in the 2A classification. Their region also gets cut, giving the Yellow Jackets more of a chance to reach the playoffs.
WHO’S BACK James Wood is the top returning player, who comes in as an athletic defensive end and the top returning player for the Yellow Jackets. He’s got great speed off the edge to track down running backs and will find himself playing college football one day. Also back is running back Austin Wood, who’s got speed to burn for Jeff Davis. The three-sport stud for the school has seen his offers begin to pile up as more teams take notice of the sort of athleticism he possesses.
KEY LOSSES
7-3. This is a better 7-3 than in 2019, as the Yellow Jackets will taste playoffs after a successful season and better regional play.
REGION 2 - 2A
JEFF DAVIS
The two major losses for Jeff Davis are on the offensive line and also in the backfield. Center Christian Ray was an honorable mention to the 2A All-State team. He was a big lineman for Jeff Davis who did a lot of heavy lifting for their option style of offense. The man in the backfield Ray was blocking for was Jashaun Kirby. Kirby was the starting fullback and had multiple 100-yard games for the Yellow Jackets. For a team needing to put up more points in 2020, he’ll be a tough player to replace.
136 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins 278 142 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of jeffdavis.schooldesk.net
3
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
5 Games to Watch in Georgia Written by: Kyle Grondin
Anticipation for Georgia high school football is getting greater and greater. With the official schedule release from the GHSA, we can now look forward to the best games of the upcoming season. This season's slate proves to be as great as any other season. With a couple of champion powerhouses going head-to-head, a coach returning to his old stomping ground, and even two powerhouses that could battle for a state championship, 2020 is going to be one of the best seasons yet. Here are the top five games to watch for the 2020 regular season. ELCA @ Irwin Co. Aug. 21
Rabun Co. @ Prince Ave Christian - Aug. 28
Lee Co. @ Lowndes Sept. 11
Lowndes @ Valdosta Sept. 25
Parkview @ Grayson Oct. 16
These are two powerhouses of the 1A classification. ELCA, the winner of five straight state championships, travels to Ocilla, Georgia, to take on Class 1A public state champion Irwin County. Leading the Indians are the talented Benyard twins of Gabriel and Garland, along with stud middle linebacker Kam Ward. They’re surely going to be state champion favorites once again in their classification. This was one of the most dominant defenses in the state of Georgia last year, only giving up 70 points all season. The Chargers, meanwhile, were just as dominant in the private school class and have been for years. ELCA has a lot of pieces to replace in 2020, but nobody will discount their ability to reload once again and compete for a state championship.
Another small school matchup, 2A Rabun County takes on Prince Avenue Christian. While both of these teams are incredibly talented, all eyes will be on the two quarterbacks under center. For Prince Avenue Christian, Brock Vandagriff ranks as the top quarterback in the state for the class of 2021. And for some recruiting websites, he’s the best in the country. He throws a great ball and finished last year with 31 touchdowns to only three interceptions. He’s a dynamic passer and will be a big reason for the Wolverines’ success in 2020 before attending the University of Georgia. On the other side, Rabun County has Gunner Stockton, whom many believe to be the top quarterback of the 2022 class. He led the Wildcats to a 2A quarterfinals appearance last season and, not to be outdone, threw for 43 touchdowns and six interceptions. He continues to show promise and mobility to go along with his strong arm. Expect a lot of points in this one with these two talented quarterbacks.
Two of the most talented teams in all of South Georgia go head to head in 2020. Lee County and their talented, experienced defense against the new look Lowndes offense. Lee County returns the bulk of their defense, led by middle linebacker Baron Hopson and safety Caleb McDowell. They were a solid group last season, but may have trouble in the Concrete Palace in September, with the dominant Lowndes defense back once again, along with one of the most talented players in the state of Georgia. Jacurri Brown is a dynamic player. He’s a talented quarterback who proved it with his legs in his sophomore season, and he will get to showcase his arm talent in 2020 under new coach Jamey DuBose. The offense will be wide open, and now Brown can be a potential State Player of the Year candidate for the Vikings.
Back-to-back Lowndes games represents the strength of their schedule as we head to the Winnersville Classic. Both Valdosta and Lowndes welcomed in new coaches. Valdosta welcomes Rush Propst, one of the most dominant high school coaches we’ve ever seen. He’s a master of the spread offense and has taken over at Valdosta after doing nothing but win during his time at Hoover High School in Alabama and at Colquitt County High School. His arrival represented two things: Valdosta’s intent to win state championships once again and Valdosta’s intent to win at Winnersville, which they haven’t done in the last three years. Expectations of Propst are sky high, and the Wildcats will look to knock off the Vikings. Those Vikings, meanwhile, were just short of a state championship in 2019 and welcome Jamey DuBose after the retirement of legendary coach Randy McPherson. DuBose may not have a resume at the level of Propst, but it’s impressive nonetheless. DuBose won three state championships in Alabama and built a powerhouse at Central High School in Phenix City. He’s known for his modern, up-tempo offense that will look to attack the Wildcat defense in 2020.
Grayson and Parkview come into 2020 as ITG Next’s top two ranked teams in the state of Georgia. Grayson, ranked No. 1, is the runaway favorite for the 7A state title this season. They’re blessed with a lot of talented players on offense with Carlos Del Rio at quarterback, Phil Mafah at running back, and Daejon Reynolds at wide receiver. The Rams have talent at every position and are poised to compete for a championship yet again. Everyone is ready to watch to see Grayson compete with this stacked roster in 2020. Parkview is built on one name: Cody Brown. Brown is a tremendous running back for the team, but doesn’t make up the entire roster for the Panthers. He’s simply the catalyst for a successful offense, which should be dynamic again in 2020. Expect a lot of offense in this one and make sure to tune in when these teams line up on Oct. 16.
ITG Next | 137
OFFENSIVE TACKLE | ATHENS ACADEMY
TOP OFFERS COMMITTED
138 | itgnext.com
HUGH LAUGHLIN
2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins
3 Losses Points Scored
624
Points Allowed
276 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of troup.k12.ga.us
4
SEPT
Opelika (AL)
11
SEPT
@ Troup
18
9
25
SEPT
SEPT
Hardaway
@ Douglass (Atl)
OCT
@ Dothan (AL)
23
OCT
@ Haralson County
30
OCT Bremen
13
NOV
@ Temple
Head Coach: Pete Wiggins
6
NOV
Heard County
WHAT TO EXPECT With a player like Cartavious “Tank” Bigsby on the team, you’re bound to build your team around him and be a state championship level contender. But Callaway did a fantastic job even with Bigsby battling injuries throughout the season. Quarterback Demetrius Coleman finished the year as the Region player of the Year, while running back Charlie Dixon also finished as an All-Region player last season. Bigsby bounced back to finish as the Region Offensive Player of the Year, as the Cavaliers had a strong playoff run before losing in the semifinals to Brooks County. Bigsby is now at Auburn, but there’s no reason to believe that the Callaway train slows down. Pete Wiggins has built a fine program since taking over in 2005 and continues to have talent around him. Dixon and Coleman should allow this team to put up a lot of points again on offense, and the defense still has some talented players in the fold. This will be a competitive team once again in a wide open 2A classification as both Dublin and Brooks County move out.
WHO’S BACK
There’s a smattering of losses across the Callaway depth chart, beginning with Bigsby. He was a star at running back that will be difficult to replace. Along with Tank on offense, wide receivers Jymre Jones and Antinez Blount and offensive lineman Tate Johnson all graduated. There are losses on both sides of the ball, but they have enough talent in the well to be competitive again.
9-1. In a region where they’ll once again be the heavy favorite, I don’t see a scenario where Callaway loses more than one or two games.
REGION 5 - 2A
KEY LOSSES
CALLAWAY
Dixon is the player that could catch a lot of people’s attention. He’s a three-star running back that is taking over the starting role full time his senior season. Callaway is constantly loaded at the running back position and has had three different running backs rush for over 2,000 yards since 2015. Dixon certainly has a chance to be the fourth. Coleman is another player who will once again have a major impact. He is a two-way star on offense at quarterback and cornerback and a spectacular athlete. Coleman, Jalin Shephard, and Osiris Rivas should make a great secondary for the Cavaliers.
ITG Next | 139
2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins
1 Losses
579
Head Coach: Jaybo Shaw
4
SEPT
Daniel (SC)
Written by: Kyle Gronsin Photography courtesy of dbintegrations.tech
11
SEPT
Prince Avenue Christian
18
SEPT
Greenwood (SC)
25
SEPT
@ Walhalla (SC)
2
OCT
Oconee County
9
OCT
@ Pickens (SC)
When a lot of people think about Rabun County, they immediately want to talk about the talented Gunner Stockton. For good reason too, as the quarterback is every bit as good as advertised. But the Wildcats that roam the mountains of North Georgia have been a competitor for the last few seasons. Since 2013, Rabun County has had eight or more wins each season and a state championship appearance in 2017, where they fell just short against Hapeville Charter. In 2019, the Wildcats started 12-0 before running into the Thomasville Bulldogs in the quarterfinals. The offensive line couldn’t handle the Bulldogs’ pressure, and Thomasville went on to beat the Wildcats 38-24. They’ll look to continue to get better, as they have a talent to compete for a state championship.
REGION 8 - 2A
RABUN COUNTY
Points Allowed
167
WHAT TO EXPECT
140 | itgnext.com
Points Scored
8-2. The Wildcats will be the favorite to win the region title, but difficult games against Oconee County and the quarterback battle against Prince Avenue Christian will set up some competition throughout the season.
30
OCT
Banks County
6
NOV
@ Elbert County
13
NOV
Union County
WHO’S BACK Stockton is the big name. The superstar quarterback had a terrific sophomore season, throwing for 3,473 yards and 43 touchdowns and rushing over 1,100 yards as well. He’s big, strong, can make any throw on the football field, and is ready to cement himself as the best quarterback in the state this season. The scary thing about Stockton is that he can get even better. He has some things mechanically he needs to improve and could even hit another level for the Wildcats.
KEY LOSSES Among the major losses for Rabun County are their top two wide receivers and top two leading tacklers. Braxton Hicks and Sam Adams both graduated at the wide receiver position. The two combined for 25 touchdowns on the season from Stockton, but Sutton Jones and Hogan Woodard both take their place and should have a solid season. On defense, a handful of players graduated, led by Garrett Bragg, A.J. Wheeler, and Phillip Roberson. Bragg finished the season with 96 tackles and two interceptions last season, while Roberson led the team with 10 sacks, doubling the next highest player on the roster.
2019 STATS overall record 10
Wins
2 Losses
435
Points Scored Points Allowed
212 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Union County Quarterback Club via Facebook
4
SEPT
Fannin County
11
18
SEPT
@ Commerce
SEPT Chestatee
25
SEPT
@ George Walton Academy
2
9
OCT
OCT
Pickens
Woodland (Cartersville)
23
OCT
@ Banks County
30
OCT
Elbert County
Head Coach: Brian Allison
13
NOV
@ Rabun County
WHAT TO EXPECT Not a traditional power by any means, Union County was a team stumbling through the beginning of the century with losing season after losing season. Then, head coach Brian Allison took over in 2008. He’s rebuilt this program into a constant contender and has shown an ability to get the best out of his Union County teams. Since his takeover, he’s had a winning season every year since 2012. 2019 presented another breakthrough, as Union County won their first ever playoff game, beating South Atlanta 19-15. Last season’s team was as well-balanced as they come on the offense. The Panthers finished 9-2, second in the region, and were ousted in the second round of the playoffs by a strong Metter program. They threw for just over 3,000 yards last season and rushed for 2,400 yards on their way to scoring 36 points per game. 2020 does leave some questions. Coach Allison’s son, Pierson Allison, graduates after starting for the last two years. His 34 total touchdowns will be difficult to replace, but Union County has shown over this decade that they can be formidable.
Leading running back Jonah Daniel will become the focal point of the offense. He finished last season with 1,570 and 16 touchdowns and will undoubtedly be the bell cow for the Panthers. He could be set for a 2,000-yard season. Defensively, Noah Underwood and Kaston Hemphill are the top two returning players on the team. Underwood had 82 tackles and a team-leading three sacks last season. Hemphill had 80 tackles of his own to go along with three interceptions.
Pierson Allison is obviously the biggest loss. He’ll go down as one of the top quarterbacks in school history as he is set to attend Berry College. His top receiving option last season also graduated in Sawyer Drake. Drake finished with 1,253 yards and 10 touchdowns. He had 662 yards more than the next highest wide receiver for the Panthers. Starting safety John Mancuso also graduates after he was the best defender on the team in 2019. He’s got a ton of talent and led the team with 117 tackles last season.
7-3. Union County’s region was cut in half, and all teams will make the playoffs in 2020, but they’re still the favorites to finish second behind Rabun County for the region title.
UNION COUNTY
KEY LOSSES
REGION 8 - 2A
WHO’S BACK
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms!
ITG Next | 141
Written by: Kyle Grondin
PASSING LEADERS
RUSHING LEADERS
Nitavion Burrus Brooks Co. 2,088 YDS
Hayden Morris Claxton 1,485 YDS
Quentavious Hunter
Omari Arnold Brooks Co. 1,796 YDS
Tyler Morehead Clinch Co. 1,500 YDS
Trenton Johnson
Mitchell Co. 1,461 YDS
McIntosh Co. Academy 1,061 YDS
Jabin Ford
Sirmarcus Burney
Taylor Co. 1,431 YDS
Claxton 1,031 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH Irwin Co. @ Brooks Co. September 25
Turner Co. @ Clinch Co. October 9
Clinch Co. @ Irwin Co. October 30
Brooks County’s introduction into Class 1A is with Irwin County, the reigning state champions who gave up 70 points last season. This will have the most stars on the field with Omari Arnold, Camron Priest, the Benyard twins, and Kam Ward. This game is a must-watch.
Turner County is looking to break through the ceiling and reach the top of the region. To do that, they have to beat the best, including Clinch County. Clinch County has won three state championships in the last five years. Tyler Morehead and Elijah Stephens are two of the best athletes in the class, and they’ll go head to head.
For the last five years, this game has been necessary viewing for all Georgia high school football fans. Irwin County and Clinch County are always competing for state championships, and these two teams will duke it out once again for regional supremacy and maybe a state championship again.
142 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES Reclassification stacked this classification even further. 2A state champion Dublin and runner-up Brooks County both move down in classification and make it even more competitive for teams at the top. Class 1A has become the deepest classification in the state.
TACKLE LEADERS
INTERCEPTION LEADERS
David Morris Turner Co. 137 TKS
Martez Thrower Wilcox Co. 126 TKS
Camron Priest Brooks Co. 102 TKS
Manzjai Martin Turner Co. 102 TKS
Shakari Denson Claxton 6
Gabriel Benyard Irwin Co. 5
Eric Ivory Jr. Dooly Co. 5
Gabriel Guyton Dublin 3
TOP 10 RANKINGS 1A PUBLIC
1
2 Irwin Co.
6 Mitchell Co.
3 Clinch Co.
Brooks Co.
Metter
Turner Co.
Pelham
Dublin
9
8
7
5
4
10 Marion Co.
Claxton
ITG Next | 143
We Are Proud to Support Local High School ATHLETICS 68 N. Scott St. Camilla, GA 31730
We’re always on your team.
YOUR GO-TO PODCAST FOR HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS Interviews With Coaches Interviews With Top Players Hot Topics
With local decision-making, individualized services, and a team of professionals that’s committed to meeting each customer’s own needs, Planters & Citizens Bank is more than just another bank. We’re a part of the community we serve.
Planters & Citizens Bank is proud to support the efforts of the Bears, Blazers, Eagles, Hornets & Wildcats!
21 North Harney Street • Camilla, GA 31730 • 229-336-5271 www.pcbank.net
Game Recaps Predictions Rankings
NEXT TAKE GEORGIA
itgnext.com/podcasts
2019 STATS overall record 10
Wins
Head Coach: Deshon Brock
2 Losses Points Scored
564
Points Allowed
157 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
4
SEPT
@ Pelham
11
SEPT
Worth County
18
SEPT
Early County
25
SEPT
@ Westover
2
OCT
@ Brooks County
9
OCT
Miller County
30
7
OCT
NOV
Seminole County
RandolphClay
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Terrell County
Calhoun County
“We fully expect to end up playing in Atlanta for it all at the end of the season. We want to continue to build off the success that we had last season.” — Deshon Brock
WHAT TO EXPECT
KEY LOSSES
Mitchell County quarterback Quentavious Hunter, a senior, returns. He’ll also play free safety again. Joining Hunter in the backfield are senior running backs Markel Shannon and Zaquavious Robinson. Shannon will also play as a defensive lineman, while Robinson will also play linebacker.
Brock mentioned the loss of several key players who all played both offense and defense. They are seniors James Thomas, Lance Robinson, Kentrel Williams, Rodney Jones, De’Shawn Sherman, Myron Carthen, Earl Waters, and Xavier Williams. “It will be hard to replace the talent we lost,” Brock said.
Despite the heavy losses for Brock and his Eagles team, you can expect Mitchell County to reload, just as they have done since coach Brock’s arrival four years ago. They will once again compete for the region championship in 2020.
REGION 1 - 1A
WHO’S BACK
MITCHELL COUNTY
Since arriving in Camilla in 2016, head coach Deshon Brock has brought with him a whole new winning attitude, and the players and fans of the Eagles program are loving it. Brock has lost just one region game and amassed a 32-3 overall record as he enters his fourth season at Mitchell County. To say that expectations have changed for the better in Mitchell County would be an understatement. The big question will be if Brock and his team can keep up with those expectations? The Eagles will return five starters on offense and five on defense. There were some huge losses in talent from a year ago, and Brock admitted that it will be hard losing the talent they did, while somehow finding a way to remain in the hunt for the top spot in their region. But, that doesn’t change his expectations headed into the season. “We fully expect to end up playing in Atlanta for it all at the end of the season,” Brock said. “We want to continue to build off the success that we had last season.”
YOUR FORD. YOUR RIDE. YOUR CHOICE. 231 US-19 North Camilla, GA 31730 855-292-0747
flintriverford.com ITG Next | 145
4
SEPT
Mitchell County
11
SEPT
@ Early County
18
SEPT
@ Cook
25
SEPT
@ Clinch County
2
OCT Cairo
9
OCT
Calhoun County
16
OCT
@ RandolphClay
23
OCT
Miller County
6
NOV
Terrell County
13
OCT
@ Seminole County
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head Coach: Dondrial Pinkins
With back-to-back semifinal appearances, Dondrial Pinkins has built Pelham into a force in Class 1A. Last season looked like their best yet. They had one loss in the regular season to rival Mitchell County that was largely due to five turnovers in that game. The Hornets responded in a big way and beat the Eagles in the quarterfinals, setting them up for another semifinals game in which they played Marion County. Despite jumping out to a 25-14 lead, Marion County kept on plugging away at it and was able to come up with the win. The Hornets’ season was over. 2020 is a continuation of the progress Pinkins has made with this program. He’s lost some of the top talent he’s grown over the years, including Kendrick Patterson, Dallas Washington, and Darrell Starling. But Pelham is out to prove that the depth that was built should outweigh the losses.
WHO’S BACK Brantley Shiver takes over full time at the starting quarterback position. He had a few throws last year playing behind Patterson, but overall he finished with 585 yards and 12 touchdowns. The key for Shiver? Zero interceptions in 2019. If he can continue to be an efficient passer and take care of the football, the Hornets offense shouldn’t miss a beat. Shiver also gets his top receiving option back in Cameron Bailey. Bailey led the team with 638 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. He’ll be the go-to target once again. Bailey also had three interceptions on defense. On defense, the defensive line for the Hornets should be able to swarm the ball once again. Makiah Martin, Jayden Parker, and Jaramiah Vicks all return to the fold. You add the lineman with Davion Rhodes, and that accounts for 16 of the team’s 25 sacks from 2019 all playing key roles again in 2020. Rhodes was also second on the team in tackles with 41.
KEY LOSSES Patterson, Starling, and Washington were stalwarts in the Pelham lineup. Patterson and Starling were two of the best athletes in the classification. Patterson played quarterback and defensive back; he finished the season with over 2,700 yards on the season on offense and 41 offensive touchdowns. He also led the team with five interceptions on defense. Did I mention he also kicked? Yeah, he had 11 touchbacks. Patterson could simply do it all. Starling was just as influential, finishing with 13 touchdowns on offense at running back and four interceptions on defense.
REGION 1 - 1A
PELHAM
8-2. The Hornets beefed up their schedule, but by no means lack any of the ability to win their region once again.
146 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins 625 152 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Milla Photography
2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
“Community Banking at Its Best”
180 Mathewson Ave SW Pelham, GA 31779
Helping You Celebrate the VICTORIES
pelhambank.com NMLS # 461091
PELHAM 134 Hand Avenue West Pelham, GA
CAMILLA 153 East Broad Street Camilla, GA
BAINBRIDGE 800 East College Street Bainbridge, GA ITG Next | 147
4
11
SEPT
SEPT
Thomasville
Cairo
25
SEPT @ Cook
2
OCT
Mitchell County
9
OCT
Irwin County
16
OCT
@ Atkinson County
23
30
OCT
OCT
Lanier County
@ Charlton County
6
NOV
Clinch County
13
NOV
@ Turner County
2019 STATS overall record 10
Wins 537
Head Coach: Maurice Freeman
368
5
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
It was a battle until the end for Brooks County High School. Many counted them out after a 3-4 start, including tough losses to Bainbridge, Clinch County, and a 14 point loss to Dublin. After that first seven games, the tables began to turn for the Trojans. Brooks County whipped off seven straight wins on the way to the state championship game and proved their worth as they were dismantling not just their opponents, but top level teams. The notches on Brooks County’s win belt last season include programs like Fitzgerald, Washington County, Rockmart, Metter, and Tank Bigsby and that Callaway team in the semifinals. The state championship they ran into what was a buzzsaw that was Dublin. Dublin had beaten them by two touchdowns earlier in the season, and Brooks County was ready. They battled them closer this time around, closer than anyone played Dublin all season, but ultimately fell just short. 2020 should represent something similar. There’s another buzzsaw in the Trojans’ path in Region 2-1A with Irwin County and Clinch County. But Brooks County head coach Maurice Freeman is always looking to bring the hammer, and he’ll take it right to any saw in his path.
WHO’S BACK Brooks County returns a lot of talent, led by running back Omari Arnold. Arnold had a breakout sophomore season, rushing for 1,796 yards and 24 touchdowns. He also had three games of rushing over 150 yards in the playoffs, including a game against Washington County in which he dominated, finishing with 269 yards and five touchdowns. It was a breathtaking performance for a running back with a bright future ahead of him. Ni’tavion Burrus (he scored 30 touchdowns last season) and the top defensive player in Camron Priest also return.
REGION 2 - 1A
BROOKS COUNTY
WHAT TO EXPECT
19664 Valdosta Hwy Suite A Valdosta, GA 31602
KEY LOSSES The Trojans did lose a couple of key players on both sides of the ball, including the top two wide receivers on the offensive side. Raquan Manning and Devin Edwards combined for 1,028 receiving yards and eight touchdowns last season, and Burrus will need to get comfortable with his new receivers next season. Edwards also finished with five interceptions last season; he and Ernest Whitfield will both be tough to replace for the defense.
7-3. Brooks County has some tough games on their schedule, but the Trojans should handle the region and bring the hammer come playoff time. 302 E Screven St Quitman, Georgia (229) 263-4061
PROUD TO BE YOUR HOMETOWN PHARMACY. 148 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 1 Wins
9
Losses
111
Head Coach: Russ Murray
CHARLTON COUNTY
Brantley County
18
SEPT
@ Long County
150 | itgnext.com
Points Allowed
338 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
2
25
SEPT
McIntosh County Academy
OCT
@ Tift Area Academy
9
OCT
@ Clinch County
16
OCT
Turner County
30
OCT
Brooks County
6
NOV
@ Irwin County
13
NOV
Lanier County
20
NOV
@ Atkinson County
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
Head coach Russ Murray had a rocky start in his first season in Charlton County, finishing 1-9. Murray took over the job when long-time head coach Rich McWhorter, who coached the Indians for 29 seasons, left to take the head job at Jackson County. To be fair, Murray inherited a young team with little experience. But, with plenty of playing time under them, those young players are now ready to step up and help restore winning football to the swamp. Murray feels like he has the right guys in place for things to get better, but no spring practice or game makes it hard to assess just how good they really are.
The Indians return eight starters on offense and nine on defense. That includes senior running back Tony Cobb, who won a sectional weightlifting meet over the offseason. Also returning is sophomore quarterback Jaylen King to lead the offense. Caleal Burroughs, a 6-foot-2 senior, returns to anchor the defensive line at nose guard. Also returning on defense is linebacker Brayden Whittenburgh, who also serves as the Indians’ long snapper. Sophomore Jaylen Lilley is back and will alternate between defensive back and linebacker.
“I’m very disappointed that we can’t actually see the progress these guys have made from last season,” Murray said. “We know they’re better, but we’d really like to see it on the field.”
REGION 2 - 1A
4
SEPT
Points Scored
KEY LOSSES Charlton County will miss offensive lineman Grayson Carter and linebacker Randy Nelson. Wide receiver Seaquon Clark has graduated and taken his talents to Albany State University.
Look for Murray to have Charlton County back to their winning ways this season, as the Indians will finish 7-4. This will be a big improvement from just one win a year ago.
5
SEPT
@ Lincoln County
11
SEPT
RandolphClay
25
SEPT Pelham
2
OCT
@ Pierce County
9
OCT
Charlton County
23
OCT
Turner County
30
OCT
@ Atkinson County
6
NOV
@ Brooks County
13
20
NOV
NOV
Irwin County
@ Lanier County
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins 440 218
2 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
WHAT TO EXPECT
“Our county has come to expect big things from our football team each year. We set very high goals for ourselves, and we expect to win the state championship every year. We don’t ever want to change.” — Don Tison
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES Quarterback Michael Walker, offensive guard Charles Stephens, and running back/linebacker Darius Dorsey will be missed.
Tison has a solid core group returning in 2020, enough to give them a shot… and that’s all this team needs to go for a state championship. Look for Clinch to be there at the end in Class 1A Public.
REGION 2 - 1A
Leading the Panthers into 2020 will be returning quarterback Tyler Morehead. The senior started on defense as a freshman and at quarterback as a sophomore and junior. “He’s a big part of our team,” Tison said. Also returning for Clinch this year will be senior offensive linemen Drake Browning and Jermaine King. Junior Elijah Tiller returns and can play anywhere on the field. Last season, the Panthers took advantage of his speed, using him at quarterback, slot receiver, and wingback. “He’s really fast,” Tison said. Senior Perry Williams, an All-State selection at cornerback last season, is back for Clinch. He had 10 interceptions last year.
CLINCH COUNTY
Despite the retirement of long-time head coach Jim Dickerson, Don Tison stepped right in and assumed the role of head coach without Clinch County missing a beat. Under Tison, Clinch would finish 11-2 with yet another trip to the state championship game. The only problem was their opponent and long-time rival Irwin County, who handed Tison and the Panthers their only losses on the season. The first was a shutout loss to the Indians in the regular season. The second time the two teams met was in the state championship game. Clinch was humbled by their rivals both times. “Our county has come to expect big things from our football team each year,” he said. “We set very high goals for ourselves, and we expect to win the state championship every year. We don’t ever want to change.” Tison will have six returning starters, and that’s applicable on both sides as the players play both offense and defense.
Head Coach: Don Tison
ITG Next | 151
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins
Points Scored
543
Head Coach: Casey Soliday 1st Year HC
4
SEPT ELCA
11
SEPT
@ Fitzgerald
Points Allowed
70 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
25
SEPT
Wilkinson County
2
OCT
Tift County
9
OCT
@ Brooks County
16
OCT
Lanier County
23
OCT
Atkinson County
6
NOV
Charlton County
13
NOV
@ Clinch County
20
NOV
@ Turner County
“It was the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.” — Casey Soliday
What a roller coaster ride of emotions Irwin County’s football team and fans went through last season. Just as the Indians were preparing to take the field in Week 1, the news hit that head coach Buddy Nobles had been diagnosed with stomach cancer. The long-time head coach at Irwin battled through it for the entire season and was able to lead his team to the Class 1A Public state championship. Sadly, Nobles lost his fight just weeks following the title game and passed away. Irwin’s football family was also struck with the news of the shooting of one of its star players, Garland Benyard. Fortunately, his injuries were not life threatening, and he was able to recover and rejoin the team at season’s end. Now, the Indians will regroup under the direction of former assistant and now head coach Casey Soliday, who summed up the emotions of last season: “It was the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.” Looking ahead, Irwin will prepare the defense of its first state championship in 40 years.
REGION 2 - 1A
IRWIN COUNTY
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
Despite some big names lost to graduation, Irwin returns six starters who will play on both sides of the ball. That group includes senior outside linebacker and wingback Garland Benyard, who has recovered fully from last year’s gunshot incident. His brother, Gabe Benyard, will once again line up at defensive back and wingback. Joining them are seniors Kam Ward, Derrick Taylor, Jaylen Billingsley, and Harmon Smith.
A major part of last season’s undefeated squad has taken his talents to Florida State. D.J. Lundy played running back and linebacker, and according to Soliday, he was a “great leader on and off the field.” Jamorri Colsen, who played wingback and defensive back, is now at Iowa Western Community College. Soliday said the loss of his interior defensive line is huge. “We lost Ramont Edge, Kevon Carver, and JayQuez Marshall, our three down linemen, and even though we have a lot back on defense, we will certainly miss those three,” he said.
Nobles created a winning tradition and formula that should leave Irwin in a good position for the next couple of seasons. Look for the Indians to remain in the thick of things in Class 1A Public this year and compete once again for a state championship. 413 N Irwin Ave. Ocilla, GA 31774 (229) 468-5104
wilcoxcountystatebank.com
152 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record Wins
3
7
Losses Points Scored
207
Points Allowed
301 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of lanierbulldogs.org
4
SEPT
Union County (FL)
11
SEPT
@ Berrien
25
SEPT
@ Trenton (FL)
2
OCT Baconton
16
OCT
@ Irwin County
23
OCT
Brooks County
30
OCT
Turner County
6
NOV
Atkinson County
Head Coach: Kurt Williams
13
20
NOV
NOV
@ Charlton County
Clinch County
WHAT TO EXPECT Lanier County had their best season since 2011, finishing with a record of 3-7. This has been a project for head coach Kurt Williams, as he took over this program two years ago as they had been struggling in futility. His first season they went 0-10, but he began to build his offense, and he was a coach who had turned around multiple programs at Macon County and Brunswick. He certainly feels like he can continue to do the same with Lanier County. Lanier County’s biggest obstacle is their region play. They currently play in one of the toughest and most treacherous regions in all of Class 1A, Region 2. Navigating that schedule includes facing teams like Clinch County, Irwin County, Brooks County, Turner County, and Charlton County. That is no easy feat and makes it difficult to see significant success out of Lanier this season.
Kish Wright is the most talented player on the team. The rising junior was an All-Region player for the Bulldogs last season and will be relied upon to generate big plays so that the offense can find success. On defense, Kelvin Gaines was also an All-Region player who has garnered multiple college offers. He’s a hard working player at the defensive line position who sets the tone with his intensity on the field.
Anelius Dean is the biggest loss to the program, as he was a great guard and defensive tackle for the Bulldogs. He was the first player in almost two years to sign to play college football from Lanier County, and it’s difficult to replicate that size.
While there’s winnable games on the schedule, Lanier County needs to prove their consistency on the field in a tough region.
REGION 2 - 1A
KEY LOSSES
LANIER COUNTY
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 153
4
SEPT
Worth County
18
SEPT
2
25
@ Fitzgerald
SEPT
Seminole County
OCT
@ Dougherty
9
OCT
Atkinson County
16
OCT
@ Charlton County
23
30
OCT
OCT
@ Clinch County
@ Lanier County
13
20
NOV
NOV
Brooks County
Irwin County
2019 STATS overall record 7
Wins
238
Head Coach: Kevious Johnson
5
Losses
Points Scored 289
Points Allowed
Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK David Morris is a returning middle linebacker, tight end, and H-back who is attracting attention from several colleges. Johnson said those returning offensive linemen - Chris Clark, Zetavious Pierce, Zach Brown, and Kyjuan Hudden - will be the bell cows. Johnson said these guys are “really big for single A.” They’ll look to pave the way for running backs Keonvay Clark and Elijah Stephens, who ran for just over 1,000 yards last season. T’Ijae Wynn is a junior defensive end and H-back who is already receiving numerous offers. “Wynn is a big-time player,” Johnson said.
KEY LOSSES
REGION 2 - 1A
TURNER COUNTY
Coach Kevious Johnson takes over a Rebels football program that finished 7-5 last year and advanced to the second round of the GHSA Class 1A playoffs. This will be Johnson’s first head coaching gig after serving as an assistant coach for several years, including the last three seasons at Coffee High, where he served as Robbie Pruitt’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Among the staff he will assemble at Turner County is former Valdosta Wildcats assistant head coach Demario Jones, who’ll run the Turner defense. Eight starters return on offense, including four of the starting five linemen from last season. Defensively, Johnson has six contributors returning.
Jayman Morris will be missed. He played everywhere for Turner County, including at receiver and safety, and is considered a high-level athlete. Aerian Stephens is the other big loss, according to Johnson.
10-4 with a trip to the state semifinals. The Rebels have fielded a winning program every year since 2015, so Johnson hopes to keep things looking up this year. With some good talent to work with and a really good staff around him, the first-year head coach should have Turner County competing for a region championship and beyond. Look for a stellar season in Johnson’s debut.
JP Johnston 229-567-4698 www.jpjohnston.net 154 | itgnext.com
For all your Insurance & Financial needs
HERE TO HELP LIFE GO RIGHT
Sharon DeMott
805 S Main St Moultrie, GA 31768 229-985-6262
Bryan Gainous
1204 E Jackson St Thomasville, GA 31792 229-226-6965
JP Johnston
142 N Gordon Street Ashburn, GA 31714 229-567-4698
Stephen Gainous
117 W Jefferson St Thomsville, GA 31792 229-226-7656
Stuart Pate
401 Park Ave Sylvester, GA 31791 229-776-6906
ITG Next | 155
2019 STATS overall record 14
Wins
1 Losses Points Scored
693
Head Coach: Roger Holmes
11
SEPT
@ Dodge County
18
SEPT Northeast
Points Allowed
335 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Dublin High School via Facebook
25
SEPT
Wheeler County
9
OCT
@ Dooly County
16
OCT Hawkinsville
23
OCT
@ Wilcox County
30
OCT Treutlen
6
NOV
@ Johnson County
13
NOV
Telfair County
20
NOV
@ Montgomery County
WHAT TO EXPECT
REGION 4 - 1A
DUBLIN
It was a season to remember for the Fighting Irish. They could not be stopped on their way to their fifth state championship and first individual claim to the state championship since 1963. The Fighting Irish had, quite simply, one of the best run games I have ever seen. They ran the Wing T offense to perfection and used it to the tune of 6,206 rushing yards. It was a dominant performance from a team that didn’t have a single win within one score, and their only loss was when they rested the majority of their starters. There’s reason to believe the Irish could take a step back in 2020 after losing so much of that championship level talent. They’ve only had one losing season since 2004, and with the move down to Class 1A thanks to reclassification, that trend should continue again in 2020.
156 | itgnext.com
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
Markelle Mitchell is the leading returning running back for Dublin, and while he didn’t get a lot of yards, he did have nine touchdowns on the season last year. He will be tasked with taking over Evans’ role and filling those big shoes. Gabriel Guyton will lead the defense. The safety had three interceptions for the Fighting Irish last season, along with being the primary kickoff returner.
That historically good rushing attack I was talking about? It’s most all gone. JaQues Evans finished with 2,531 rushing yards last season, which was among the best in the state. Behind him, seniors Zion Kemp and Marcus Adams had 1,519 yards and 1,448 yards, respectively. That was nearly 89% of their rushing yards and 74 of the team’s 89 touchdowns last season that will need to be replaced. Along with the running back trio, Romello Height was the star linebacker for the Irish, who has now signed to play for Auburn next season. He was everywhere for Dublin and set a team record for sacks in his junior and senior seasons. He is another talented star that will be difficult to replicate for the Irish.
8-2. WHILE THEY MAY NOT BE STATE
CHAMPIONS AGAIN, DUBLIN SHOULD HAVE NO PROBLEM WINNING THEIR REGION AND MAKING THE PLAYOFFS ONCE AGAIN.
11
SEPT
Bleckley County
18
SEPT
@ Schley County
25
SEPT
@ Johnson County
2
OCT
Telfair County
9
OCT
@ Montgomery County
16
OCT
@ Wheeler County
23
OCT Dublin
30
OCT
@ Dooly County
6
20
NOV
NOV
Hawkinsville
Treutlen
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins 451 159
3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Wilcox County High School via Hudl
Head Coach: Rob Stowe
WHAT TO EXPECT From 2006 to 2012, Wilcox was one of the most competitive programs in all of Class 1A. They had a lot of talent and were a constant contender for a state championship, which they won in 2010. After that were a few tough years until once again they became a program on the rise. Riding the back of superstar running back and linebacker Desmond Tisdol, Wilcox County finished 9-3 and looked respectable in third behind Clinch County and Irwin County. They fell just short against Pelham in the second round of the playoffs, losing 41-36. They are also one of the big winners of 2020. Reclassification moves them out of Region 2, which now has Clinch, Irwin, Brooks County, and Turner County. It’s one of the most competitive regions in all of Georgia high school football. They’ll still have Dublin and a competitive Telfair County, but one powerhouse program is better than three.
Martez Thrower is the biggest name to return. He’s a spectacular athlete and linebacker for the Patriots who’s one of the fastest risers in the recruiting rankings. He can simply tackle everything out there and uses his speed to track down running backs from sideline to sideline on the field. He’ll be a big reason for success for Wilcox County and will likely also be involved in the offense to replace another player who was also a great linebacker. His size and stature are comparable to Tisdol.
KEY LOSSES
8-2. They face a few difficult tests along the way, but Wilcox County should finish second in this region and have a good playoff seed in November.
REGION 4 - 1A
Speaking of Tisdol, he was the heart and soul of this team. Like Thrower, he was one of the best athletes in the entire state of Georgia last season with his speed, strength, and versatility. He was the best defensive player on the team while also being the star running back. Losing a talent like him is difficult for any team to replace.
WILCOX COUNTY
WHO’S BACK
ITG Next | 157
You are there for your team’s greatest moments. We want to be there for yours. Contact the highly qualified insurance representative in your neighborhood today. Find out what can do for you.
ADELA FORD
BERNIE HALL
105 W Broad St PO Box 428 Camilla, GA 31730 Office (229) 336-0441
2024 E Pinetree Blvd Suite A Thomasville, GA 31792 Office (229) 226-4501
adela.ford@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/adela.ford
158 | itgnext.com
bernie.hall@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/bernie.hall
DAVID WHITTINGTON
BART HESTER
280 W By-Pass PO Box 727 Moultrie, GA 31768 Office (229) 985-4747
250 Doc Darbyshire Rd Suite 5 Moultrie, GA 31788 Office (229) 516-6057
david.whittington@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/david.whittington
bart.hester@countryfinancial.com countryfinancial.com/bart.hester
LANCE WILSON
JEFF RICH
814 Scott St Bainbridge, GA 39819 Office (229) 246-1076
415 E Broughton St Bainbridge, GA 39817 Office (229) 246-8212
lance.wilson@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/lance.wilson
jeff.rich@countryfinancial.com countryfinancial.com/jeff.rich
RACHAEL DERISO
CHRIS MCCLENDON
1902 Dawson Rd Albany, GA 31707 Office (229) 485-1306
390 1st Ave NE Cairo, GA 39828 Office (229) 377-7793
rachael.deriso@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/rachael.deriso
chris.mclendon@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/chris.mcclendon
DEFENSIVE END | COLQUITT COUNTY
TOP OFFER
GAMAL WALLACE
ITG Next | 159
PASSING LEADERS
RUSHING LEADERS
Brock Vandagriff Prince Avenue Christian 2,471 YDS
Colten Gauthier Hebron Christian Academy 2,401 YDS
Parker Ingram First Presbyterian Day 2,395 YDS
David Dallas Trinity Christian 2,238 YDS
Murphy Reeves Fellowship Christian 1,554 YDS
Griffin Caldwell Wesleyan 1,154 YDS
Landon Owens Prince Avenue Christian 1,018 YDS
Davion Smith Savannah Country Day 1,016 YDS
GAMES TO WATCH ELCA @ Irwin Co.
Athens Academy @ Prince Ave Christian
Wesleyan @ Hebron Christian Academy
Two state champions from last season face off, and we get to see Week 1 who truly is the king of Class 1A. The Chargers have been a dominant team for five years now, but Irwin County’s defense proved to be the best in the state. Who will reign supreme?
The battle for Athens, this one is typically owned by the Spartans, but Prince Avenue Christian is one of the best and has the best quarterback in the state in Brock Vandagriff. Expect a lot of points as these teams will look for regional supremacy.
Colten Gauthier is looking to bring Hebron Christian to the upper echelon of the classification. Beating Wesleyan, the classification runner-up from a season ago, will be a good start.
160 | itgnext.com
NOTABLE CHANGES Not much has changed for the private classification, but a healthy Brock Vandagriff and a depleted ELCA roster open up an opportunity at the top of the classification. Can this finally be the year ELCA gets knocked off its mantle? They have plenty of challengers at the top.
TACKLE LEADERS
RECEIVING LEADERS Andrew Douglas
Coleman Cauley
Mount Vernon 1,160 YDs
First Presbyterian 138 TKS
Logan Johnson
Ben Hermann
Prince Avenue Christian 1,122 YDs
Christian Heritage 121 TKS
Cooper Blauser
Davis Ridings
Wesleyan 954 YDs
Prince Avenue Christian 119 TKS
Peyton Cromwell
Evan Lester
Savannah Christian 117 TKS
Christian Heritage 792 YDs
TOP 10 RANKINGS 1A PRIVATE
1
2 ELCA
6 Savannah Country Day
Prince Ave Christian
7 Hebron Christian Academy
3 Athens Academy
8 Trinity Christian
5
4 Holy Innocents
9
Fellowship Christian
10 Wesleyan
First Presbyterian
ITG Next | 161
4
SEPT
Schley County
11
SEPT
@ Miller County
18
SEPT
25
SEPT
@ Southland @ Tattnall Square Academy Academy
2
16
OCT
OCT
Savannah Christian
@ Savannah Country Day
23
6
OCT
NOV
Strong Rock Christian
First Presbyterian
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
After 16 regional titles and four state championships - the last in 2012 - during their run in the GISA, Deerfield-Windsor is set to join the GHSA in Class 1A Private. It’s a new start to a new reign, and that means a new coach. In comes Jake McCrae from Providence Christian School in Florida, where he served as offensive coordinator. Before that, he was working at the University of Florida. McCrae offers a new perspective to a team looking to an interesting future. Over a dozen schools have made the turn from GISA to GHSA, and now the Knights will try to prove they can do it seamlessly. The Knights split their region games 2-2, resulting in a 6-6 season overall. They battled into the second round of the playoffs before losing to Valwood 34-7. They struggled to score points last season, and that’s something they’ll need to improve upon. With a coach like McCrae, who has wanted to be a coach that caters to his players rather than his system, they will find a way to maximize their offense.
Running back Gleaton Jones is one player that McCrae will build around on offense. The talented running back was named to the All-Albany Area team last season. He plays with a lot of power in the backfield and should be the leader of the offense this season. Overall, the Knights have 16 returning players that will be seniors, and they’ll rely on this veteran roster to have success next season.
20
Mount de Sales Academy
KEY LOSSES
6
130
Losses Points Scored
227
Points Allowed
DEERFIELD-WINDSOR
overall record
REGION 1 - 1A PRIVATE
2019 STATS
Wins
@ Stratford Academy
Head Coach: Jake McCrae
The Knights have two All-State players who have since graduated. They’re both on the defensive side of the ball, with linebacker Evans Plowden and defensive lineman Matthew Wendland. The Knights’ strong side last season was the defense, surrendering only 19 points per game. Losing two strong players in the middle of that defense will be difficult to replace.
6
NOV
1st Year Head Coach
Moving to the GHSA will be an adjustment for the Knights, so there might be a step back as they continue to work and build the program.
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Mary Ann Miller
13
NOV
ITG Next | 163
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins
1 Losses
696
Head Coach: Jonathan Gess
EAGLE’S LANDING CHRISTIAN
@ Irwin County
11
SEPT
Heritage (Newnan)
REGION 2 - 1A PRIVATE
4
SEPT
164 | itgnext.com
Points Scored Points Allowed
172 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of elcaonline.org
17
SEPT
25
Trinity Christian (TX)
SEPT
Crisp County
2
OCT
@ Blessed Trinity
16
OCT
@ Trinity Christian
30
OCT
St. AnnePacelli
6
NOV
@ Our Lady of Mercy
23
NOV
Whitefield Academy
30
NOV
@ Landmark Christian
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
It was the drive for five last season for the Chargers. The powerhouse of Class 1A Private, ELCA once again steamrolled their way to a state championship crown, making it their fifth straight time winning the trophy. Last season was the first time there was a chink in the armor for the Chargers, as they lost to Holy Innocents Episcopal and for the first time in five years lost a region game and did not win the region title. It was a close 42-41 finish in overtime, but the Chargers ultimately fell short. Then came playoff time. They exacted their revenge on Holy Innocents Episcopal, beating them in the semifinals on their way to knocking off Wesleyan. Head coach Jonathan Gess has built a winner; it’s quite simply what he does best. He’ll need to show he can continue to do that as ELCA turns into a new decade.
A program like ELCA always has upperclassmen ready to step up and take their place year after year. With a lot of graduates comes a lot of opportunities, starting at running back with Josh Rogers. He was the third running back on the depth chart, but had over 600 yards and nine touchdowns last season. The top player for the Chargers this season will be on the offensive line in Bryson Estes. Estes plays at the tackle position for ELCA, but projects as a future interior lineman. He’s got great size, and the Chargers will run a lot his way to take advantage. Gess will use Estes as a weapon to create mismatches in the running game.
KEY LOSSES The losses run deep for ELCA, starting with their best overall player in Keaton Mitchell. Mitchell was statistically one of the best running backs in the state last season, finishing with 2,030 yards and 43 touchdowns on the ground. That sort of production cannot be replicated easily, making him the biggest loss for the Chargers.
7-3. Chargers don’t rebuild; they reload. But this team has some stumbling blocks on the schedule, which will set themselves up for a region title and a deep run to the state playoffs.
Listen at: itgnext.com/podcast
ITG Next | 165
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins
Points Scored
302
Head Coach: Mark Stroud
4
SEPT
@ Prince Ave Christian
11
SEPT
Bulloch Academy
Points Allowed
231 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Christian Davis via Hudl
18
SEPT
@ Frederica Academy
25
SEPT
North Cobb Christian
2
OCT
9
OCT
First @ Strong Rock Presbyterian Christian
16
OCT
@ Stratford Academy
30
OCT
@ Savannah Christian
6
NOV
Savannah Country Day
20
NOV Aquinas
WHAT TO EXPECT
REGION 3 - 1A PRIVATE
CALVARY DAY
A team like Calvary Day is always in the conversation. Their 7-4 finish in 2019 was their lowest win total since 2009. A lot of that can be attributed to the number of young players on their roster last season. The defense of the Cavaliers was filled with underclassmen, and they still competed with some of the local rivals and made the playoffs. That’s where they met Savannah Christian for the second time in the season, and they were unable to hold them again, losing 31-21 in the first round. The good news is that when you’re successful with a young football team, you have a lot of up-and-coming talent that should get even better. They lose a couple of key players, but Calvary Day is more likely to end up back at eight or more wins in 2020.
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
This defense should be very good in 2020. Five of the team’s top six leading tacklers all return, led by Garrhet Manning. The Cavaliers also return the bulk of their defensive line and their best players in the secondary in defensive tackle Fuches Lewis and defensive back Juwan Johnson. The Cavaliers need to improve their turnover numbers overall on defense, but have the pieces in place to be good on that end. Offensively, leading running back Greg Daniel finished with 893 yards and eight touchdowns in only eight games last season. With his 5.7 yards per carry mark, he should be closer to 1,500 yards in his senior season as he’ll become more of the key to the offense.
The majority of replacements will happen on the offense, particularly at quarterback and wide receiver. Quarterback Thomas Carver will be the toughest player to replace for the Cavaliers, as he was a three-year starter for the team and finished his senior season with 28 touchdowns and over 2,800 yards of total offense.
7-3. A difficult opening game against Prince Avenue Christian will test the Cavaliers. But this team has talent and will get back to the playoffs once again.
Proud to Support Calvary Day Athletics wetheringtonchiropractic.com 329 Eisenhower Drive Savannah, Ga 166 | itgnext.com
4
SEPT
Emanuel County Institute
11
SEPT
@ Screven County
25
18
SEPT
SEPT
John Milledge
Valwood
2
9
OCT
OCT
16
OCT
@ DeerfieldMount de @ First Windsor Sales Academy Presbyterian
30
OCT
Calvary Day
6
20
NOV
NOV
@ Aquinas
Savannah Country Day
WHAT TO EXPECT Head coach Baker Woodward begins his third season at Savannah Christian. Last season saw Woodward and his Raiders finish as the No. 2 seed in Region 3-1A, advancing to the quarterfinals in the state playoffs. Their playoff run was highlighted by a program-defining win over region and city rival Savannah Country Day. Their rival had not only finished as the top seed with an undefeated regular season, but the Hornets had beat up on the Raiders in their regular season matchup. But, it was Woodward’s bunch that won the second-round playoff rematch, advancing to the third round. They lost to Wesleyan, which brought their season to an end. Savannah Christian heads into a new look Region 3-1A in 2020, with just area private schools, as the public schools move into their own regions. With three-year starter Spencer Robicheaux at quarterback returning to run the offense, along with senior cornerback Blake Brown, another multi-year starter, it could be another deep run into the playoffs.
WHO’S BACK
Head Coach: Baker Woodward
Savannah Christian returns several starters, with seven on offense and six on defense. Quarterback Robicheaux will be back, and, according to Woodward, the Raiders will be dependent on their signal caller. “We will go as far as he takes us,” Woodward said of his three-year starter. Another three-year starter is back in offensive lineman Justin McInnis. His linemate and two-year starter senior Garrett Perry will be back. Junior wideout George Futch returns this year. Woodward said he expects Futch to also contribute on defense. Speaking of the defense, strong safety Bradley Anderson will be back. He will be the leader of the secondary, although he will get a lot of support from returning cornerback Blake Brown, a three-year starter for the Raiders.
Fullback and linebacker Nate Moon was the Savannah Quarterback Club’s Player of the Year as a junior, but missed all of last season after an injury suffered early in the opening game of the season. Moon was an All-State selection that season. “Moon was our best player,” Woodward said. He will attend Georgia Tech as a preferred walk on. Also lost to graduation is running back Marquell Brown, who has signed with Savannah State.
2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins
354 271 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of savannahchristian.gorepu.com
4
Losses
Points Scored Points Allowed
REGION 3 - 1A PRIVATE
Woodward has done a great job and will keep Savannah Christian playing winning football. They’ll compete for the region title again this year. Look for a 10-3 season.
SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN
KEY LOSSES
@ITGNext #StayInTheGame with #ITGNext
by following us on each of our social media platforms!
ITG Next | 167
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins
1 Losses
413
Points Scored Points Allowed
234 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of savcds.org
4
SEPT
@ Bulloch Academy
11
SEPT
Emanuel County Institute
25
SEPT
@ Metter
2
OCT
@ Tattnall Square Acad.
9
OCT
Stratford Academy
16
OCT
DeerfieldWindsor
23
OCT
Florida A&M University DRS
30
OCT Aquinas
Head Coach: Jim Collis
6
NOV
@ Calvary Day
20
NOV
@ Savannah Christian
Savannah Country Day will return five starters on offense, including several skill position players. The defense will also see five starters return. The Hornets play most of their personnel both ways, so a returning starter counts for both sides. Head coach Jim Collis will begin his second year at the helm of the Hornets and said his offensive and defensive lines were hit hard by graduation. Collis led his team to a perfect 10-0 regular season and the region title in his first year at Savannah Country Day. However, the joy was short lived as the Hornets lost their opening round home playoff game. “That was tough to take,” Hollis said. “That was a team we had beaten pretty well in the regular season, but we just didn’t play well in the playoff matchup.” You can bet Collis will use that as a motivator to get back to the playoffs and make another run.
REGION 3 - 1A PRIVATE
SAVANNAH COUNTRY DAY
WHAT TO EXPECT
168 | itgnext.com
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES
Junior quarterback Barry Kleinpeter is one of those key skill position players returning this year. The signal caller threw for over 2,200 yards last season and rushed for close to 500 yards. When he’s not running it himself, Kleinpeter will hand it to junior running back Davion Smith. Erik Brown and Kenny Odom will return as receivers and will play defensive back also. Junior linebackers Dalton Spivey and Rivers Carson return.
Seven linemen that started last year have graduated. They are defensive end Andre Miller, who will attend West Point. Defensive lineman Kenneth Reedy and Graham McGinty are gone, along with Brock Taylor, who started at center and defensive line last season. Three starting offensive linemen will not be back. They are Brayton Rahimi, John Woods, and Will Templeton.
The Hornets lost a ton of big linemen, but at the same time will return some really good talent at key positions. Getting those guys the ball seems to be the strategy for Collis this year. “We want to give the playmakers the ball and let them do their thing,” he said. I like his game plan. Look for Savannah Country Day to compete for a state championship. Their roster number is up to about 50 players, and that will help their chances.
4
SEPT
@ Mt. Pisgah Christian
11
SEPT Decatur
18
SEPT
@ Douglass (Atl)
2
OCT
9
OCT
Prince Avenue @ Loganville Christian Christian
16
OCT
Athens Academy
30
OCT
6
NOV
@ Hebron Providence Christian Acad. Christian
14
20
NOV
NOV
@ Holy Innocents’
Mount Vernon
2019 STATS overall record 12
Wins 499 297
3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Weslyan
Head Coach: Franklin Pridgen
WHAT TO EXPECT It doesn’t get much closer for the Wesleyan Wolves than it did in 2019. They finished 12-3 on the season and reached the state championship game. In their three losses, they only lost to two teams: ELCA twice, once in the regular season and in the state championship, and also Holy Innocents Episcopal, a team that reached the semifinals and also finished second above Wesleyan in the regional standings. The Wolves were a solid team in 2019, but have questions heading into 2020. They’ve lost a lot of talent from their state championship contending squad and will need to show they can reload to compete again.
WHO’S BACK
The toughest loss will be a player they didn’t lose to graduation. J.C. French, the star quarterback who put up big-time numbers for the Wolves last season, has since transferred to Blessed Trinity. Last season leading the Wolves to the finals, French finished with 3,286 yards and 48 total touchdowns. He’s grown at Wesleyan and has garnered an offer from Wake Forest due to his performance last season. Leading receiver Micah Smith graduated; he finished with 1,067 yards and 13 touchdowns through the air. While Blauser will take his place, it will be tough to replace that significant production.
6-4. Wesleyan will reach the playoffs again, but will slip up from their strong 2019 season.
WESLEYAN
KEY LOSSES
REGION 5 - 1A PRIVATE
Griffin Caldwell is the leading returning man on the offensive side of the ball. At running back last season, he finished with 1,152 yards and 13 touchdowns. He’s a short and shifty running back who should have a strong junior season. Along with Caldwell, Cooper Blauser may be the most talented player in the school. At wide receiver and defensive back, he had eight touchdowns on offense to go along with a defensive record of 67 tackles and two interceptions.
ITG Next | 169
2019 STATS overall record 11
Wins
1 Losses Points Scored
490
Head Coach: Josh Alexander
4
SEPT
@ Trinity Christian
11
SEPT
Charlotte Country Day
Points Allowed
106 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Athens Academy
18
SEPT Commerce
25
SEPT
9
OCT
@ Providence Hebron Christian Christian Acad.
16
OCT
@ Wesleyan
23
OCT
Prince Avenue Christian
30
OCT
Loganville Christian
6
NOV
Athens Christian
13
NOV
@ George Walton Acad.
The Spartans have three offensive linemen that stand over 270 pounds. Hugh Laughlin is the biggest name as he’s committed to the University of Virginia, but junior Johnerio Holt and senior John Ferguson also are college football level talents as well and have the size to back it up. This team is going to play back and should offer a lot of time for returning quarterback Palmer Bush. Bush’s top receiver also returns, and that is the highlight of the Athens Academy roster. Deion Colzie is an incredible athlete standing at 6-foot-4, and he is a state champion high jumper. He’s rated as a top-10 wide receiver in the country and has teams like Georgia and Notre Dame desperate for him to enroll.
REGION 8 - 1A PRIVATE
ATHENS ACADEMY
WHO’S BACK
170 | itgnext.com
WHAT TO EXPECT
KEY LOSSES
Athens Academy is one of the strongest programs in all of Class 1A Private. Since 2004, the Spartans have had 14 winning seasons and multiple state championship game appearances. They just need that elusive state championship. 2020 could be the year for Athens Academy, with a loaded offensive line and one of the best wide receivers in the entire country. Last season, the Spartans lost to Class 1A powerhouse ELCA in the state quarterfinals. ELCA has of course won five straight state championships and has knocked out Athens Academy on multiple occasions. The Spartans will be looking to return the favor in 2020.
Kurt Knisely is the biggest loss, as he was a standout safety and running back for the Spartans. He’ll be playing football at Georgia next season. Running back Len’Neth Whitehead signed to play for Tennessee, and punter James Williams is heading to Syracuse, both as Division I football talents.
9-1. This team has the talent to beat anyone. I think they’ll stumble once against Prince Avenue Christian, but should be a contender come playoff time.
2019 STATS overall record 9
Wins
3 Losses Points Scored
544
Points Allowed
222 Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of princeave.org/athletics
4
SEPT
Calvary Day
11
SEPT
@ Rabun County
18
SEPT
Providence Christian
25
SEPT
@ Parish Episcopal (TX)
2
OCT
@ Wesleyan
16
OCT
@ Hebron Christian Acad.
23
OCT
Athens Acad.
30
OCT
George Walton Acad.
Head Coach: Greg Vandagriff
6
20
NOV
NOV
Loganville Christian
Athens Christian
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES Prince Avenue Christian doesn’t lose too much heading into 2020. Most of their losses are on the defense. They lost their leading sack man in Shane McCormick and their top two safeties in Tyler Payne and Landon Ragle, who combined for 204 tackles, four interceptions, and eight pass deflections. That is a lot of production to replace in the secondary for this team, but the offense remains mostly intact as they should be one of the best in the state next season.
Prediction 8-2. Don’t let the schedule fool you. It’s purposefully loaded, including games against 2A Rabun County and Parish Episcopal in Dallas, Texas. I think the Wolverines are the best team and will win the state championship in 2020.
REGION 8 - 1A PRIVATE
Speaking of that offense, the Wolverines return just about every significant skill position contributor from 2019. Leading rusher Landon Owens had over 1,000 yards, while the top two receivers in Logan Johnson and Zac Dyer combined for 1,846 yards receiving and 25 touchdowns. They both return to what should be the most potent offense in all of Class 1A. Also returning is Brock Vandagriff, one of the top rated quarterbacks in the country who is committed to play for the Georgia Bulldogs after this year. He was one of the leading passers last season with over 2,400 yards passing and 37 total touchdowns. That was in only eight games. He battled through injuries most of last season and still dominated. The season before he had 51 total touchdowns. He should be the leading passer in the state in 2020.
PRINCE AVE CHRISTIAN
The Wolverines have to feel a little snakebitten over the last few seasons. After back-to-back appearances in at least the quarterfinals in 2017 and 2018, Prince Avenue Christian fell to ELCA in a closely contested 62-57 finish in 2019. “We felt like we had a good beat on them, and we’re up by one with three minutes left,” coach Greg Vandagriff said. “Then with over a minute left, we got the ball back down five, and a controversial pass interference call kind of moved us out, and we weren’t able to convert on fourth down. But we’ve been right there with the best teams.” In their past three seasons, they’ve lost to the state champion ELCA twice and were runners-up in 2018 to Athens Academy. 2019 was filled with ups and downs as star quarterback Brock Vandagriff battled injuries all season. With him fully healthy in 2020, a state championship is surely a possibility for the Wolverines.
ITG Next | 171
2019 STATS overall record Wins
4
6
Losses Points Scored
237
Points Allowed
211 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Michael Brinson
28
AUG
@ Valwood
4
SEPT
Calvary Day
11
SEPT
@ Tiftarea
18
SEPT
Brantley County
25
SEPT
Long County
9
OCT
Memorial Day
16
23
OCT
@ Bulloch
OCT St. Andrew’s
Head Coach: Brandon Derrick
30
OCT
@ Pinewood
6
NOV Trinity
WHAT TO EXPECT The 2018 state champions took a step back in 2019. The Knights lost a lot of significant contributors from the team that took home the trophy, so many considered the season sort of a rebuilding one for the team. This included starting a freshman quarterback and a young defense filled with underclassmen. The rebuild led to a 4-6 record, including an even 2-2 region record in 2019 that was capped by a first-round playoff exit. All that means 2020 is building toward progress. All of the young players that were featured for the Knights last season now have the experience and the reps necessary to make a huge leap in the upcoming season. Expect Frederica to look more like 2018 than 2019.
WHO’S BACK
GISA REGION 2 - 3A
FREDERICA
The Knights bring back two GISA All-Region players. Josh Meadows has been their top linebacker for two years in a row and now takes over as the leader of the defense for his senior season. He finished with 68 tackles in 2019 after having 110 tackles the previous season. He’s joined by fellow defensive stalwart in defensive lineman Will Counts. Counts was the enforcer in the middle of the defense and will look to have a big senior season to help that defensive line.
KEY LOSSES Denver Anthony was tasked with being the major contributor on offense in 2019. After many of the starters graduated, Anthony was the lone significant contributor from the championship roster and was the lead running back for the Knights. He was a back-to-back All-Region player along with being named to the All-State team in 2019. The fourth All-Region player for the Knights that has since graduated is Deke Jernigan. Jernigan was a great athlete for the Knights. He played both ways and was a great linebacker for the team. He has since graduated and gone on to play college baseball at Tallahassee Community College.
7-3. With all of the young players coming up, it’s set up for the Knights to get back to being a contender in GISA.
CHECKING is always FREE NEW MEMBERS could WIN
$250!
Brunswick - 4401 Altama Ave. | St. Simons Island - 95 Cinema Way FiveStarCU.com | 888-619-1711
172 | itgnext.com
2019 STATS overall record 8
Wins
4
Points Scored
299
Head Coach: Erik Solliday
28
AUG
@ Community Christian
4
SEPT
@ Bulloch
Losses
Points Allowed
193 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
11
SEPT
Frederica Academy
18
SEPT
Charlton County
25
SEPT
Pinewood Christian
2
OCT
@ Trinity
16
OCT
Terrell Academy
23
OCT
@ Brookwood School
30
6
OCT
@ Southland Academy
NOV Valwood
“This will be the most I’ve had return since I’ve been here. Every season takes on its own identity, but we feel like we should be pretty good.”
— Erik Solliday
WHAT TO EXPECT Tiftarea Academy had a great season last year, finishing 8-3 while advancing all the way to the GISA state semifinals, losing to eventual state champion John Milledge. Leading the Panthers will be head coach Erik Soliday, who enters his third year at Tiftarea. The veteran coach reached a milestone last year, picking up his 200th victory in a career that has spanned over 30 years. Soliday will be looking to add to that total as he leads the Panthers into the 2020 season with six starters returning on both offense and defense. “This will be the most I’ve had return since I’ve been here,” Soliday said. “Every season takes on its own identity, but we feel like we should be pretty good.”
Soliday has several upperclassmen he’ll look to for leadership on and off the field this year. Junior Dylan Harbort will be back and will be counted on to lead the team as their quarterback, with the graduation of three-year starter Logan Crosson. Soliday said he’ll be counting on three seniors this season: Returning linemen Ben Matt and Ty Haskins will play on both the offensive and defensive line, and Jayk Sailer will be a big contributor, as he’ll line up once again as wide out, defensive back, kicker, and punter.
The loss of Crosson means that there will be a lot of offensive production to replace. Crosson’s career total at Tiftarea includes over 3,400 yards passing, along with 39 passing touchdowns. He also rushed for 681 yards as the Tiftarea signal caller. Crosson was also the team’s free safety. Running back and defensive back Adam McKinney has graduated, as has offensive lineman and defensive end Trenton Fender.
With Soliday at the controls once again and a veteran group of contributors returning, look for the Panthers to equal or surpass their win total from last season and once again compete for the GISA Class 3A title.
TIFTAREA
KEY LOSSES
GISA REGION 3 - 3A
WHO’S BACK
Where Fords and Lincolns Cost Less ITG Next | 173
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US
BEST DENTIST 10 YEARS IN A ROW!
BEST OVERALL BUSINESS
BEST DENTIST 2010-2019
2015, 2016 & 2018
Barclay Woodward D.M.D. • Hardy Gray D.M.D. • Ashley Moorman D.M.D
Full Family Dentistry New Patients Welcome 3211 Wildwood Plantation Dr • Valdosta, GA • 229.242.4441
Excited to announce our second location is open at: 3362 Greystone Way Valdosta, GA 229.242.0063 www.ADCTEAM.com 174 | itgnext.com
• All Insurances Accepted • In Network with many plans
28
AUG
Frederica Academy
4
SEPT
@ Savannah Christian
11
SEPT
North Florida Christian
18
SEPT
9
2
OCT
@ Pinewood @ John Milledge Christian Academy
WHAT TO EXPECT In just his second season as head coach at Valwood, Justin Henderson took his Valiants to the GISA Class 3A state title game. Although things didn’t work out against John Milledge Academy for the championship, it doesn’t take away from a solid 10-3 season that saw Valwood emerge from a 1-2 start to go on a nine-game winning streak that took them into the title matchup. Now, the challenge for Henderson and his staff will be to hopefully work their way back and finish the drill this year. They’ll have six starters returning on each side of the ball to help them achieve their goal, while withstanding few losses this season. Henderson also sees the Valiants focusing more on running the football this year.
“We’re going to be bigger up front this season, and, hopefully, we’ll be able to pound the ball more,” Henderson said. “I think we’ve got a chance to be very good this year.”
OCT
Southwest Georgia
23
OCT
@ Southland Academy
30
OCT
6
Brookwood School
NOV
@ Tiftarea Academy
WHO’S BACK Senior quarterback Pate Hogan returns to lead the offense for Valwood. He took the majority of the snaps last season, but had to work around a finger injury on his throwing hand, which hampered his ability to throw the football. Now that he’s healthy, he figures to be the full-time starter this season. Also returning is senior Harrison Hamsley, a defensive end and tight end who will be a target for Hogan in the Valwood passing attack. Henderson especially likes Hamsley’s style of play on defense, calling him “an animal on the football field.” Also returning is senior offensive and defensive tackle Mark Anthony Audian and senior running back and linebacker Bay Moorman.
Head Coach: Justin Henderson
KEY LOSSES Lost to graduation is Zach Paulk, who contributed to Valwood’s success from several positions last year. He played free safety, wide receiver, and took over the quarterback position during Hogan’s absence. Blain Cooper, who played running back and linebacker, has graduated and will attend Rippin College, a Division III school in Wisconsin. Offensive guard Brody Carson graduates.
Henderson wants to run the ball more this year, and with a bigger line, he should be able to do just that. With a total of 13 positions having personnel with returning experience, the Valiants should be ready to go far this season.
10
Wins 354 270 Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Eric Vinson
3 Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
VALWOOD
overall record
GISA REGION 3 - 3A
2019 STATS
ITG Next | 175
4
SEPT
Stratford Academy
11
SEPT
@ Domion Christian
18
SEPT
Westminster of Augusta
25
SEPT
@ Twiggs Academy
2
OCT
@ Young Americans Christian
15
OCT
Windsor Academy
22
OCT
Solid Rock Academy
30
OCT
@ Crisp Academy
2019 STATS overall record 1 Wins
10
90
Head Coach: Earl Ford
Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
295 Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of Westwood School via Hudl
WHAT TO EXPECT The Wildcats had a significant amount of turnover from the 2018 team, where they finished 2-9 overall. It started with head coach Earl Ford, a longtime assistant for the Westwood football program, taking over for coach Gordy Gruhl. The team knew it was a rebuilding season for the team and took a lot of lessons out of the program. “I learned that my team of 18 players had more passion, grit, determination, and pride than I ever imagined,” Ford said. “These men never gave up, worked to get better every day, and when injured fought to get back on the field to be with their teammates.” Westwood loses eight of those 18 players for the upcoming season, but feels optimistic toward improvement in 2020.
“I learned that my team of 18 players had more passion, grit, determination, and pride than I ever imagined.” — Earl Ford
GISA REGION 3 - 2A
WESTWOOD
WHO’S BACK The top returning player for the Wildcats will be Fletcher Sheffield. He’s a big, dynamic tight end and defensive lineman for Westwood who was the only returning All-Region player from last season. A few younger players are expected to step up, according to Ford. Other players to watch include center Maston Collins, running back and linebacker Jacob Workman, quarterback and safety D.J. Palmer, running back and linebacker Ty Griner, and wide receiver and defensive back Ben Shirah.
KEY LOSSES Slater Stringer was the top player to graduate from Westwood in 2019. Stringer was the top rated wide receiver and defensive back on the team and a GISA All-Star last season. Along with Stringer, Beau Shirah made the All-Region team playing quarterback and linebacker last season.
It will be a the step in the right direction for the Wildcats as they build their team for the future.
ADELA FORD
105 W Broad St PO Box 428 Camilla, GA 31730 Office (229) 336-0441 adela.ford@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/adela.ford
176 | itgnext.com
CHECKING is always
FREE
NEW MEMBERS could WIN
$250!
Camilla - 260 U.S. Highway 19N FiveStarCU.com | 888-619-1711
475 Cairo Road Camilla, GA 31730 www.mitchellemc.com 800-479-6034
Good Luck Teams!
YOUR GO-TO PODCAST FOR HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS Interviews With Coaches Interviews With Top Players Hot Topics
Game Recaps Predictions Rankings
NEXT TAKE GEORGIA
itgnext.com/podcasts
178 | itgnext.com
28
AUG Brentwood
4
SEPT
@ Pinewood Christian
11
SEPT
@ Savannah Christian
18
SEPT
Bulloch Academy
25
SEPT
@ Gatewood
2
9
OCT
OCT
Community Christian
Valwood
23
OCT
@ Bethlehem Christian
30
6
OCT
NOV
Creekside Christian
Westfield
2019 STATS overall record 13
Wins 537 70
Losses Points Scored Points Allowed
Head Coach: JT Wall
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography courtesy of John Milledge Academy
WHAT TO EXPECT Their second state championship in four years has John Milledge Academy thinking about taking over the GISA. The 2019 Trojans were a powerful force, going 13-0 on the season and dominating on their way to a state championship. They outscored opponents 531 to 70, meaning they won each game by an average of 41 to 5. It doesn’t get much better than that, and they saved their best for last. Led by star running back Amaad Foston, John Milledge blitzed Valwood on the way to a 62-19 victory. Foston, meanwhile, was unstoppable, finishing with 423 yards and eight touchdowns in the game. After that performance, could the Trojans get better?
WHO’S BACK
There won’t be a whole lot of changes to this team. The bulk of the roster returns. The Trojans dominated on both sides of the ball with a mostly young roster, and middle linebacker Ethan Huff is one of the few guys who will graduate. He led the team with 132 tackles last season to go along with five sacks. He was the man in the middle of that defense, but the Trojans have proven that they have enough to last.
10-0. This will be the best team in the GISA once again as they win their first back-to-back state championship.
REGION 4 - 3A
KEY LOSSES
JOHN MILLEDGE
Speaking of Amaad Foston, he put together the best season among all Georgia high school running backs last season. He had a junior season with 2,772 yards and 46 touchdowns. While the Georgia High School Football Historians website doesn’t include GISA statistics, his rushing yards ranked ninth all time, 52 yards ahead of Nick Chubb’s best season. His 46 touchdowns were good for third all time, one better than the great Herschel Walker’s best season. Foston also brings quite a few friends back to the party with him, with his leading passer, top three wide receivers, and the bulk of their defense. Marcus Prestwood, Patrick McDonel, and Taylor Dixon combined for 15 interceptions last season, and all return.
ITG Next | 179
180 | itgnext.com
21
AUG
Mount Dora Christian
4
SEPT
@ Skipstone Academy
18
SEPT
@ Calvary Christian
25
SEPT
@ Central Fellowship
2
9
OCT
St Johns Country Day
OCT
Fullington Academy
23
16
OCT
@ John Hancock Academy
OCT
Griffin Christian
30
6
OCT
Rock Springs Christian
NOV
Central Christian
2019 STATS overall record Wins
3
9
Losses Points Scored
208 340
Points Allowed
Written by: Kyle Grondin Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough
Head Coach: Chuck Knapp
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHO’S BACK
KEY LOSSES They only lost three players, but they were significant contributors. Miles Grimes and Grant Copeland were solid two-way players for the Generals and the two leading rushers for the team. Sam Wheeler was the leading receiver last season and also a key cog in the secondary for Georgia Christian. His production will be difficult to replace overall for the Generals, and young players will need to step up to fill his shoes.
It’s a step in the right direction for Georgia Christian. With the talent returning, they should continue on the right trajectory to make an impact again.
GICAA 11 MEN 1A
Seth Copeland had a solid freshman season for the Generals at quarterback and will look to continue his development and improve this offense. He returns the bulk of his talent, with 16 of 19 players on the roster returning, allowing this offense to do even better in 2020.
GEORGIA CHRISTIAN
It was a rebuilding season last year for Georgia Christian and first-year head coach Chuck Knapp. The season before was a struggle and showed a need for a change. They went 1-9 in 2018 and scored only 48 points on the season as they were shut out six times. Knapp completely revamped the offense, and they scored over four times as many points in 2019. The Generals only won three games, but that also includes a first-round playoff victory. Georgia Christian is on the rise. After back-to-back wins over Fullington Academy, the Generals saw themselves facing Lafayette Christian, whom they lost to by 30 earlier in the season. They battled closely, but ultimately couldn’t come back and lost by 10. The goal for 2020 is to continue that trend in the right direction. The Generals only had three seniors and should have the talent to continue toward a .500 season.
ITG Next | 181
Coaching & COVID-19 Written by: Jon Nelson
I think we may be heading toward a different place in sports. Hear me out for a sec. In this new normal we’re in, I remember how it was playing the sports I loved growing up. If I was injured, got a knock, got a stinger, or anything like that, I was always told, “Shake it off,” “Put some dirt on it,” or the ever-popular, “Ah, you’ll be okay,” followed by a wave of the hand by the coach – experienced or otherwise. These days, I talk to coaches who are fathers and husbands who are looking at their games through a different prism. They want to know when a student-athlete isn’t feeling well, not just for the one but for everyone who could be affected by the sickness of another. They want to know, ahead of time, if a student-athlete isn’t coming to work out. They want to know, ahead of time, so they can prepare otherwise. They want to know, ahead of time, so they can tell you to stay home. They want those phone calls. It’s no longer a situation where a student-athlete, if they’re not feeling well, still shows up and guts it out. It’s no longer a situation where a student-athlete isn’t a “real man” if he doesn’t show up to something. You’re more of a man by not being a part of your team and taking care of everyone around you with an absence. I talk to coaches who are also fathers of young children, some very young. They shower first thing when they get home because they want to be as safe in front of their wives and children and have as normal of a life as possible. Some look into the great unknown every day and get teaching lessons about those things I talked about above. Coaches have become avid readers these days trying to find and digest as much information as they can, and a lot of times conversations with fellow coaches can yield as much information as what they learn in their day-to-day. They have become each other’s best set of resource materials and sounding boards. As a part of their new dossiers, some of the best advice has been about focus, listening, and taking what we all grew up with as norms and putting them to the side. When these coaches drive a sick kid home because they have no other means, that act takes on a whole new level of meaning, not just to a family, but a community. I think we’re all learning as we go these days, to be honest. At the same time, I think we can be just as effective a teacher by paying those lessons forward. Play it safe, everyone! I’ll talk to you soon!
182 | itgnext.com
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Azalea’s Restaurant & Lounge Full Service Amenities Meeting & Reception Facilities First Class Accommodations 49” Flat Panel HD Televisions Family & Executive Suites Fitness Center & Business Center Hot Tub & Large Swimming Pool Complimentary Airport Shuttle
HOLIDAY INN HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER
I-75 (Exit 16) ♦ 1805 West Hill Avenue ♦ Valdosta, GA (229) 244-1111 (800) 465-4329 Ideal Hotel and Meeting Place for Teams www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com
Exit 16 229-249-8800 Valdosta
Exit 18 229-249-8900 Valdosta
Exit 18 229-245-1700 Valdosta
Exit 18 229-249-8880 Valdosta
Exit 16 229-244-1111 Valdosta
Exit 18 229-249-2000 Valdosta
Exit 16 229-249-1000 Valdosta
Exit 16 229-249-8000 Valdosta
Exit 39 229-896-4574 Adel
Exit 18 229-244-7600 Valdosta
Exit 62 229-382-3300 Tifton
Exit 62 229-382-8100 Tifton
Owned and operated by Williams Investment Company A proud part of South Georgia’s growth since 1963
Exit 62 229-382-8250 Tifton
Exit 18 229-244-8440 Valdosta
Exit 62 229-382-8505 Tifton
GATOR BOWL CHARITIES AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
SCHOLARSH IP
.................. ................. ................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F O U R $ 2., .5. .0. 0. . . . . . . . . . . . S C H O L AR S H I P S A V A. I.L.AB . . L. E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ELIGIBILITY REQUIR . M. E. N. TS. .: . . . . . . . . . . . . ................ ................. ................ ................ ................. ................. ................. presented by Wells Fargo
_
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
- MUST BE A SENIOR IN HIGH SCHOOL FROM AN ACCREDITED HS ON FLORIDA’S FIRST COAST
_
_
_
- MAINTAIN A 3.0+ GPA (UNWEIGHTED)
_
_
- PARTICIPATE IN A JV OR VARSITY SPORT (OR IT’S EQUIVALENT (DANCE/GYMNASTICS/TAEKWONDO)
- PARTICIPATE IN EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES THROUGH CHURCH, SCHOOL OR THE COMMUNITY
S ch o l ars h i p O pen s A u g u st 1 st
TO A P P L Y V I S I T :
184 | itgnext.com
TAXSLAYERGATORBOWL.COM