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Preseason team of Elite 11 playmakers Complete week-by-week schedules Outlook and analysis of each area team Photos by SCOTT ROGERS AND ERIN O. SMITH | The Times lllustrations by chris campbell | The Times
Athletes: From left, West Hall running back Kwon Williams, Buford defensive tackle Shug Frazier, Gainesville running back Chris Byrd.
Table of contents Composite schedule
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Flowery Branch preview Chestatee preview North Hall preview West Hall preview East Hall preview
Gainesville preview
3
Section 2
Section 1
4 5 6 8 9
Elite 11 Johnson preview Riverside preview Lakeview preview Buford preview White County preview
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Lumpkin County preview Banks County preview Jefferson preview Jackson preview Dawson County preview Habersham Central preview
GAINESVILLE NEUROLOGY GROUP, LLC Leading Board Certified Neurologists in Northeast Georgia Since 1979
Clinton E. Branch, Jr., M.D., FAAN Michael S. Baugh, M.D. Daniel L. Cobb, M.D.
If you need a neurologic evaluation, ask your physician for a referral to Gainesville Neurology Group or call our office at 770-534-7885 for information and appointments.
6 6 8 8 9 9
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The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
MASTER SCHEDULE
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
BANKS COUNTY
Off
COMMERCE
JOHNSON
@ East Jackson
@ North Cobb Christian
BUFORD
EASTERN CHRISTIAN (MD)
BERKMAR
@ McEachern
Off
CHESTATEE
Off
@ Flowery Branch
West Hall
DAWSON COUNTY
Off
forsyth Central
EAST HALL
Off
FLOWERY BRANCH
Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Nov. 6
@ Franklin County
FANNIN COUNTY
Off
lUMPKIN COUNTY
@ Dawson County
@ West Hall
East hall
@ White County
off
CHESTATEE
@ North Hall
MONROE AREA
NORTH OCONEE
@ Madison County
Stephens COUNTY
PEPPERELL
Off
NORTH OCONEE
@ Buford
MADISON CouNTY
@ Stephens County
wHITE County
@ North Hall
MONROE AREA
@ Gilmer
HERITAGE
Off
@ West Hall
@ East Hall
FRANKLIN COUNTY
@ Fannin County
BANKS COUNTY
LUMPKIN County
@ Johnson
WESLEYAN
PICKENS COUNTY
Off
@ Jackson County
@ Lumpkin County
DAWSON COUNTY
WEST HALL
@ Johnson
@ Franklin County
FANNIN COUNTY
@ Banks County
Off
CHESTATEE
@ Loganville
lanier
@ Heritage
CEDAR SHOALS
@ WinderBarrow
@ Clarke Central
APALACHEE
Off
SALEM
@ Gainesville
GAINESVILLE
Off
GRAYSON
Off
@ Winderbarrow
APALACHEE
@ Heritage
@ Salem
LANIER
@ Clarke Central
CEDAR SHOALS
@ Loganville
Flowery Branch
HABERSHAM CENTRAL
Off
RABUN COUNTY
NORTHVIEW
@ South Forsyth
@ West Forsyth
ALPHARETTA
Off
LAMBERT
@ Centennial
JOHNS CREEK
@ North Forsyth
@ Chattahoochee
JACKSON COUNTY
Off
@ Madison County
@ White County
RABUN COUNTY
EAST HALL
@ Jefferson
oconee County
@ Elbert County
Hart County
east jackson
Off
@ Morgan County
JEFFERSON
@ Rabun County
winderBARROW
NORTH HALL
@ Commerce
Off
jackson County
@ Elbert County
MORGAN County
@ East Jackson
Off
@ Oconee County
HART COUNTY
JOHNSON
MADISON COUNTY
@ West Hall
@ Banks County
LUMPKIN COUNTY
@ Pickens
RIVERSIDE MILITARY
Off
@ Osborne
EAST HALL
Off
@ Franklin County
DAWSON COUNTY
LAKEVIEW
Off
EAST JACKSON
ST. FRANCIS
TOWNS COUNTY
Off
@ Providence Christian
@ Hebron Christian
GEORGE WALTON
@ Athens Academy
ATHENS CHRISTIAN
@ Prince Avenue
COMMERCE
LUMPKIN COUNTY
MODEL
Off
@ Union County
@ Johnson
our lady of mercy
east hall
@ Franklin County
FANNIN COUNTY
@ Banks County
Off
@ Dawson County
WEST HALL
NORTH HALL
Off
Off
@ Jefferson
WEST HALL
CARROLLTON
STEPHENS County
@ North Oconee
BUFORD
@ Madison County
@ Monroe Area
CHESTATEE
@ White County
RIVERSIDE MILITARY
Off
FELLOWSHIP CHRISTIAN
Off
HAPEVILLE charter
RABUN COUNTY
@ Johnson
@ Greene County
@ Union County
SOCIAL CIRCLE
WEST HALL
Off
JOHNSON
@ Chestatee
@ North Hall
north oconee
DAWSON COUNTY
Off
@ East Hall
franklin county
@ Fannin County
banks County
@ Lumpkin County
WHITE COUNTY
Off
@ Pickens
JACKSON COUNTY
@ Pace Academy
BUFORD
Off
@ Madison County
STEPHENS COUNTY
@ North Oconee
@ Chestatee
MONROE AREA
NORTH HALL
STRONG ROCK @ Washington oglethorpe CHRISTIAN Wilkes County
3
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
GAINESVILLE Red Elephants 2014 results: 10-3 overall, Class AAAAA State Quarterfinals MVP contenders
Chris Byrd Sr. RB/LB 5-9, 190 Gainesville’s coach has said he’ll rely on Byrd to be able to handle as many carries as physically possible. Unlike most players at Gainesville, he’ll be counted on to start on both sides of the ball.
Chandler Staton Sr. K 5-11, 170 Staton has a booming leg and is almost automatic on his field-goal tries. Miller said his kicker has improved with hard work over the summer.
Same great expectations Big Red coming off quarterfinal run BY BILL MURPHY
bmurphy@gainesvilletimes.com
Messiah Dorsey Sr. QB 5-10, 170 Like many quarterbacks Gainesville has produced before him, Dorsey will be a dualthreat with the ball.
Tae Turner Sr. WR/DB 5-9, 170 Turner made the move to Gainesville over the summer after having an outstanding season running the football as a junior for Lakeview Academy.
DeMichael Borders Sr. LB 5-9, 180 A proven tackler, Borders gives Gainesville an anchor to the second level of the defense.
team headquarters City Park Stadium, Gainesville
Directions: From downtown Gainesville, take Green St. and stay right when it forks onto Riverside Drive. Stadium is on right. Parking: On Glenwood Drive on Longstreet Trail.
key matchup Oct. 9 vs. Lanier
Gainesville has a new nemesis on its hands at the top of Region 8-AAAAA. Last year, the Red Elephants finished second in Region 8-AAAAA, after losing to the Longhorns 26-23 in Sugar Hill.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 GRAYSON Sept. 11 at Winder-Barrow* Sept. 18 APALACHEE* Sept. 25 at Heritage* Oct. 2 at Salem* Oct. 9 LANIER* Oct. 16 at Clarke Central* Oct. 23 CEDAR SHOALS* Oct. 30 at Loganville* Nov. 6 FLOWERY BRANCH* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 10-3, 8-1 Region 8-AAAAA L Grayson 39-0 W Winder-Barrow 46-6 W Heritage 47-13 W Salem 29-6 L Lanier 26-23 W Clarke Central 35-10 W Cedar Shoals 61-26 W Loganville 20-7 W Flowery Branch 49-7 Class AAAAA state playoffs W Creekview 42-37 W Harris County 49-40 L Allatoona 24-17
Success has been so ingrained in the Gainesville High football program, it’s hard to imagine anything else for 2015. The Red Elephants have posted seven consecutive double-digit win seasons, four consecutive trips to the state quarterfinal round, highlighted by a 2012 state championship during this great run under their 14th-year head coach Bruce Miller. On Miller’s watch, Gainesville has never missed the postseason — a pretty remarkable fact, considering the annual influx of new players due to graduation. Even with about half of the starters from last year’s squad now gone, the Red Elephants have plenty of great pieces to work with in 2015. Led by a converted wide receiver at quarterback, the offense should move the ball efficiently in Miller’s spreadoffense look. Gainesville also boasts a pair of sturdy running backs, and a move-in from Lakeview Academy, Tae Turner, to compliment the offense on the perimeter. The Red Elephants also look to be deep on defense, particularly at linebacker, with hard-hitting defensive back Toddrick Stringer back for one more season. One of the biggest weapons for Gainesville may be in the special teams game with Elite 11 selection Chandler Staton handling the kicking. Good from 47 yards on a field goal previously, Miller marvels at how much hard work his senior kicker has put into perfecting his craft during the offseason. “We have the ingredients there for a very good football team,” said Miller, who is entering year No. 28 as a head coach. “We play in a very athletic region (8-AAAAA). “I hope we’ve set the tone for the season by having a good summer. ... Now it’s time to go meet the challenge.” In 2014, Gainesville may have overachieved a bit in its first season in the postDeshaun Watson era. The Red Elephants won a pair of hard-fought playoff games against very good opponents, then played neck and neck in the quarterfinal round, losing 24-17 to Alatoona. Leading up to kickoff Friday against Grayson, Miller said it has been an extremely efficient offseason for his program, which is looking to make it 16 consecutive seasons to make the postseason.
Offense Messiah Dorsey will be the quarterback in charge of running Gainesville’s offense. Miller moved Dorsey, a senior, over from his previous position of wide receiver. Gainesville’s coach said Dorsey worked diligently during the offseason with his quarterback coach, Michael Perry, to learn the ropes of an offense that sometimes has four receivers on the field at once. Miller said Dorsey is one of the fastest players on the team, and also has a strong arm. Dorsey impressed with a strong showing during the preseason for Gainesville against Jefferson Forest High (Va.) at North Hall. Dorsey will have plenty of targets to throw the ball to this season. Miller expects big things out of Turner at wide receiver
Times file photo
Gainesville running back Chris Byrd runs with the ball against Jefferson Forest (Va.) during a scrimmage Aug. 14 at North Hall’s Brickyard.
Coach’s corner
Last year’s leaders Passing
Yds TDs 3,180 38
Mikey Gonzalez
Receiving
Chris Williamson *Messiah Dorsey Rodney Lackey
Rushing
Bruce Miller
Coach’s record: 140-29 at school; 208-109 Region: 8-AAAAA Returning starters: 5 on offense, 5 on defense Offensive strategy: Spread Defensive strategy: 3-4
since he moved to Gainesville from across the city at Lakeview Academy. Others who look to have catches are Tyree Robinson, Will Gaydon, Andy Hayes, Roadarious Timmons and Cortez Jackson. The running game will be more of a factor than maybe in past seasons with two backs who will carry the ball. Kennesaw State commit Chris Bryd, who is on The Times’ Elite 11, and junior Kadarius Smith will both tote the ball. A bigger-bodied back, Byrd will get as many carries as he can handle, according to Miller. Smith, who is more of a slasher, has also earned his way on the field to see what he can do. The size of the offensive line has made having a productive running game a feasibility. The Red Elephants are anchored up front by three-year starter Logan Harr at center, two-year starter Bill Hood at left guard, along with Jase Lint, Zack Gibbs (6-6, 285), Alejandro Munoz (5-10, 250), Gabriel Copeland and Cole Handte (6-3, 270). Gibbs, a junior, is the only one of the bunch who is not a senior.
Defense Linebacker should be a strong spot for the Red Elephants. Byrd and Keith Harris will lead in the inside spots, while Willie Brooks,
Michael Byrd *Chris Byrd
Comp% 71
Rec Yds TDs 52 1,061 14 68 873 NA 57 770 NA
Yds TDs Avg 987 NA 5.2 29 204 7
Defense
Tkl TFL INT J.D. Sosebee 189 10 1 *DeMichael Borders 82 8 2 *Chris Byrd 82 3 0 *returning starter
DeMichael Borders and Quan Dukes are the main athletes to play on the outside of Miller’s 3-4 defense. Handte will also play along the defensive line, along with Caleb Megginson, Trey Harris, Jack Brand and Zion Williams. The secondary will have Turner and Kamden Young playing cornerback, while Chris Lyles and Hunter Sims, who played last season at Riverside Military, will play primarily at safety.
Special teams Staton will handle kicking and punting duties for the Red Elephants. Kick and punt returns include Lyles, Sims, Turner, Tre Blackwell and Byrd.
Outlook Gainesville is still there right at the top of the region, again, with Lanier. The Red Elephants have enough talent on the field to make a postseason run almost automatic. How the team works together will determine if it can make a region championship and deep postseason run a reality.
2015 ROSTER 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Hunter Sims Chris Byrd Messiah Dorsey DeMichael Borders Roadarius Timmons Tae Turner Troy Glasper Tre Blackwell Andy Hayes Martavius Davis Brian Dickson Tyree Robinson DT Walker Will Gaydon Cortez Jackson Sam Wright Mason Roland Josh Banks Kadarius Smith Kamden Young Chris Lyles
DB Jr. LB Sr. QB Sr. LB Sr. WR Jr. RB Sr. WR Sr. WR So. WR Jr. WR Jr. DB Jr. WR Jr. DB So. WR Jr. WR Sr. QB Sr. WR So. WR Jr. RB Jr. DB Jr. DB Sr.
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 44
Toddrick Turner DB Sr. Nick Anderson DB Jr. Branquavius Jones WR Sr. Tyriq Kabir DB So. Thomas Garner WR Sr. Kris Montague LB Jr. JaQuay Thompson WR So. Zach Brown DB Sr. Willie Brooks LB Jr. Quay Ray LB Sr. Hector Lopez DB Sr. Kameron Lyles DB Jr. Luis Quintero DB Jr. Payton Ferrell DB So. Ishmael Ramirez DB So. Quon Dukes LB Sr. Nero Hawks DB Jr. Cameron Hunter LB Jr. Lemi Williams LB Sr. Ryan Walker RB So. Tyric Watson LB So.
45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 63 64 65 69
Josh Harrison Brendon Goss Mandrell Banks Weber Lint Craig Young Bill Hood Jase Lint Logan Harr Gabriel Copeland Cole Handte Jack Brand Zack Gibbs Carson Thompson Kamon Newson Nate Roys Dawson Waller Trey Harris Drew Turner Jacob Parrish Santos Zetino Cameron Hayes
DB LB LB DB LB OL DB OL OL DL DL OL OL DL OL OL DL OL OL OL OL
Jr. Jr. Jr. So. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Fr.
70 72 73 74 75 77 78 79 81 82 86 88 91 92 94 95 98 99
Trevor Calvert DL Trent Armour OL Trey Kemp OL Juan Rivera DL Alejandro Munoz OL Dre Young OL Lashawn Jones OL Cardin Smith DL Herve Aklotsoe WR Chandler Staton K Ben Sexton WR Kevin Mendoza LB Mydarius Mize Caleb Megginson DL Jonathon Ortiz K Brandon Reyna K Keith Harris LB Zion Williams DL
Fr. So. So. So. Sr. Sr. So. So. Sr. Fr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. So.
4
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
FLOWERY BRANCH FALCONS 2014 results: 5-5 overall, 4-5 Region 8-AAAAA mvp contenders
Trey Wilcoxson Sr. RB/LB 5-10, 200 Wilcoxson came on strong in the second half of the 2014 season and will be counted on even more this season as the team’s feature running back. Wilcoxson provides a combination of power and a high football I.Q.
Cortez Davis
Sr. WR/DB 5-11, 170 Davis provides an athletic presence as part of the Falcons’ wide receivers and as the “bell cow” of the defense in the team’s secondary.
“Chewy” Alvarado Sr. K/OL/DL 6-2, 260
Alvarado is a versatile weapon for the Falcons — someone who can use brute force on the line and more finesse as a kicker and punter.
Sterling Sykes
Sr. OL/DL 6-1, 280 Sykes is part of a blue collar offensive line that coach Chris Griffin describes as a “mission-oriented” group.
Tyler Williams
So. LB/TE 5-10, 195 Though only a sophomore, Williams has made an impression on his coach, who expects big things out of the linebacker.
team headquarters Falcon Field, Flowery Branch Directions: From Gainesville, take Interstate 985 south to Exit 12 (Spout Springs Road/Flowery Branch) and turn left. School is 2.5 miles on left. Parking: Lots available at the school.
key matchup Nov. 6 at Gainesville
Flowery Branch couldn’t keep step with Gainesville in a 49-7 loss last season, but one lopsided contest doesn’t diminish the rivalry. The Falcons will be looking to get even when the two teams face off at City Park Stadium in the final week of the 2015 season.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 CHESTATEE Sept. 4 *at Loganville Sept. 11 *LANIER Sept. 18 *at Heritage Sept. 25 *CEDAR SHOALS Oct. 2 *at Winder-Barrow Oct. 9 *at Clarke Central Oct. 16 *APALACHEE Oct. 30 *SALEM Nov. 6 *at Gainesville * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 5-5, 4-5 Region 8-AAAAA W Chestatee L Lanier L Heritage W Cedar Shoals L Winder-Barrow L Clarke Central W Apalachee W Loganville W Salem L Gainesville
29-0 27-12 35-16 17-7 24-7 32-12 52-28 29-14 7-6 49-7
Getting back to business Falcons look to begin new postseason streak By Jared Putnam
jputnam@gainesvilletimes.com The 2014 season was uncharacteristically short for Flowery Branch. Despite winning three of their final four games, the Falcons were unable to overcome a 2-4 start and missed the state playoffs for the first time since 2005. Fourth-year coach Chris Griffin is eager to get back to Flowery Branch’s brand of football this year. “We obviously had some games last year that we didn’t play well,” Griffin said. “This year we want to play smarter and cut down on the mistakes. “We’ve been fortunate to win a lot of games at Flowery Branch, but last year definitely wasn’t what we’re about.” Griffin believes his own role is better suited for him this season. He has handed play calling duties over to new Falcons offensive coordinator Joel Miller, who previously coached at Apalachee. “I get to finally be a head coach and tackle the things I need to tackle,” Griffin said. “It’s been a good transition, and the kids have done a good job learning some tweaks and the new coordinator’s twists on how he wants to do some things.”
Times file photo
Flowery Branch players wrap up Chestatee running back Tray Bryant after a short gain during the first half of a game last season at War Eagle Stadium.
coach’s corner
Rushing
Yds TDs Avg. Jeremiah Goss 960 9 5.9
Offense Miller will try to improve upon a Flowery Branch offense that was held to 17 points or fewer in seven of 10 games last year. The Falcons have more experience on their side this season with eight starters returning on offense, a considerable advantage over the three they were limited to in 2014. Nick Lance, thrust into the role of starting quarterback as a freshman, will be back under center for the Falcons this year. “He has won the job outright, he’s had a really, really good offseason,” Griffin said. “He has embraced the role of being the starting quarterback and learned the offense as a whole. “He got the starting role the day of our first game last year, two or three hours before we played, and for the most part didn’t really look back. He’s learned how to read defenses, leadership and gotten much better physically.” The Falcons will need to replace running back Jeremiah Goss and the 950 rushing yards and nine touchdowns he accounted for last season. Griffin pointed out that Flowery Branch switched to a two-back offense late last season — a formation in which senior Trey Wilcoxson, the team’s new primary ball carrier, produced 500 rushing yards over the last four games. “He’s a bigger-bodied, little bit of a bruiser-type running back, very similar to Jeremiah in a sense,” Griffin said of Wilcoxson. “He’s a leader, definitely a guy people respect and a hard-working, very smart football player. Junior Jasen Johnson will account for the other half of Flowery Branch’s two-pronged rushing attack. Cortez Davis will anchor the wide receivers, along with fellow seniors Kyle King and Christian Bennett, and sophomore
Last year’s leaders
Defense
Tkl TFL INT Cole Ford 111 11 1 Zack Smith 101 14 0 Cooper Harrison 45 2 1 *returning player
Coach: Chris Griffin
Coach’s Record: 22-12 at school, 22-12 career Region: 8-AAAAA Returning starters: 8 on offense, 5 on defense Offensive strategy: 2-back pistol Defensive strategy: 4-3, multiple Playoff history: Had a string of eight straight appearances snapped in 2014
Malik Drayton. The Falcons boast four returning starters in the five spots along the offensive line, which Griffin describes as “the bright spot” of the offense. “As that group goes, we all go,” Griffin said. “It’s been really fun to watch those guys. They’ve been very mission-oriented to get our offense back where it needs to be, very blue-collar.” Cory Godfrey joins fellow seniors Sterling Sykes, “Chewy” Alvarado and Clay Hamilton, and junior Dylan Connell up front this season.
Defense Just like last season, more than half of Flowery Branch’s defense will be composed of first-year starters. Senior T.J. Jackson will anchor a defensive line that will be made up of a committee of players. “It may take them a couple games to get a feel of what we need to do, but they’re coming along strong,” Griffin said. Griffin expects sophomore Tyler Wil-
liams to make a big impact in the middle of a Falcons’ linebacker corps that includes juniors Anthony Woodall and Tariq Jalil, and senior Michael Albini. “My gut tells me by the end of the year, a lot of people are going to know who Tyler Williams is,” Griffin said. The Falcons’ secondary will consist of Davis — the “bell cow” of the defense according to Griffin — at one safety spot, and Johnson at the other. Senior Paul Jaramillo and junior Sean Akins will occupy the corners.
Special teams Alvarado and King will handle the kicking and punting duties, while Davis and Wilcoxson will be among the Falcons’ return specialists.
Outlook Flowery Branch won’t be favored to dethrone region champion Lanier or leapfrog rival Gainesville for one of the top two spots in the region, but there is no reason to believe the Falcons cannot get back to the playoffs. The Falcons’ postseason hopes will likely come down to how well they play against region rivals like Winder-Barrow and Clarke Central. “I think a lot of the teams that are supposed to be good are going to be good again,” Griffin said. “I think Lanier is the team to beat. “Once you get past Lanier and Gainesville, everybody gets pretty even.”
2015 ROSTER 2 Christian Bennett WR/DB 4 Kyle King WR/DB 5 Trey Wilcoxson RB/LB 7 Jasen Johnson QB/DB 9 Darrin Shaw QB 10. Nick Lance QB 11. Jamar Mitchum WR/DB 12 Connor Boyd QB/DB 13 Kory Graham QB/DB 14 Michael Albini QB/OLB 15 Drake Register DB/RB 17 Jason Tinker RB/DB 18 Cortez Davis WR/DB 19 Jalin Strown WR/DB 21 Tyler Lorenz DB/WR 22 Brady LaPlante WR/DB 23 Cameron Holmes WR/DB 24 Colby Adams WR 25 Malik Drayton WR/DB 26 Jacob Reid WR/DB
Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. So. Sr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. So. So.
28 Trey McIntosh WR/DB 29 Dino Jarrin QB/DB 30 Malik Damons RB/LB 31 Paul Jaramillo WR/DB 32 Sean Akins WR/DB 33 TJ Jackson DL 34 Johnny Broome WR/DB 35 Tyler Dunigan RB/DB 36 Tariq Jalil RB/DB 37 Victor BirminghamRB/DB WR/DB 38 Reece Arnett 39 Spencer Cheeks LB/WR 40 Bobby Falcey RB/LB 42 Jacob Vansickle WR/LB 43 Ethan McKay LB 44 Anthony Woodall LB/TE 46 Connor Ferguson LB 47 Eric Tolbert DB 48 Braden Wayne WR/DB 49 Aaron Page OL/DL
So. Fr. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Fr. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Jr. So. So. So. Fr.
OL/DL 50 Tommy Black 51 Ronnie Mifflin OL/DL 52 Tucker Rothschild OL/DL 54 Clay Hamilton OL 55 Hunter Davis OL/DL 56 Justin Chaney LB 57 Jack Dodson OL/DL 58 Aiden Lorenz OL/LB 59 Matthew Porter OL/DL 60 Dylan Connell OL/DL 61 Cannon Underwood OL/DL 62 Brantley Waters OL/DL 65 Nick Canavan OL/DL 66 Bailey Ottaway OL/DL 67 Cory Godfrey OL/DL 69 Herbert Mazariegos OL/DL 71 Kenny Murillo DL 72 Victor Perez OL/DL 73 Parker Easley OL/DL 75 Sterling Sykes OL/DL
Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. So. Sr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. Sr.
So. 76 Maurice Joseph OL/DL 77 Christian Hunt OL/DE Sr. 78 Cody Smith OL/DL Jr. 79 Jesus Alvarado K/OL/DL Sr. 80 CJ Williams WR Jr. 81 Saul Almanzar WR/OLB Fr. 82 Justin Murphy WR/DB Fr. 83 Jaycee Martinez WR/DB Fr. 84 Cameron Duncan WR/DB Fr. 85 Adam Straughan WR Sr. Sr. 86 Hayden Adams WR 87 Cody Inman TE/DL Fr. 88 Michael Greene LB Sr. 89 Eddie Smith WR/DB So. 90 Tyler Williams LB/TE So. 91 Dayton Colbert LB/TE So. 92 Rajji Larach K/P Sr. 94 Alexander Sanchez K So. 95 Chris Gallaway OL/DL Fr.
5
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
CHESTATEE War EAGLES 2014 results: 1-9 overall, 0-7 Region 8-AAAA MVP Contenders
Nick Lyles So. RB/MLB 6-1, 193
The quick running back will likely have a lot of reps throughout the offense. Forman said Lyles has sure hands and can catch a pass, as well as hold on to the ball through the line.
Austin Gean
Jr. OL/LB 5-6, 171 A deep snapper by trade, Gean is one of the team’s more experienced linemen. The junior will be entrusted to help his younger teammates grow quickly before the region schedule.
SHAKING UP THE SYSTEM War Eagles aiming to create mismatches with versatile offense under 2nd-year coach BY DAVID THACKHAM
dthackham@gainesvilletimes.com
Jaime Arroyo
Sr. TE/LB An accomplished wrestler, Arroyo is Chestatee’s strongside backer and will be in charge of keeping quarterback Logan Cates as clean as possible.
Najee Whittle
Sr. WR/DB 5-9, 130 Whittle and Logan Idol will be coach Bill Forman’s main wide receivers this year. There’s also a possibility to see Whittle line up next to Lyles in a receiver combination during certain plays.
team headquarters War Eagle Stadium, Gainesville
Directions: Take Thompson Bridge Road across the bridge and turn left onto Ledan Road. After about 2 miles, turn left onto Sardis Road. School is on the right. Parking: Lots available on both sides of the school.
KEY matchup Oct. 9 vs. Madison County This home game is Chestatee’s earliest and best chance to salvage a region win after having to open the schedule with North Oconee and Buford on backto-back weeks. Should the War Eagles be able to sort out their defense, which let in more than 40 points per game, they might start making strides in 8-AAAA.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 at Flowery Branch Sept. 4 WEST HALL Sept. 11 PEPPERELL Sept. 25 NORTH OCONEE* Oct. 2 at Buford* Oct. 9 MADISON COUNTY* Oct. 16 at Stephens County* Oct. 23 WHITE COUNTY* Oct. 30 at North Hall* Nov. 6 MONROE AREA* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 1-9, 0-7 Region 8-AAAA L Flowery Branch 29-0 L West Hall 31-0 W Pepperell 24-19 L North Oconee 51-7 L Buford 54-7 L Madison County 49-28 Stephens County 55-27 L L White County 50-28 L North Hall 28-17 L Monroe Area 41-28
Following a 1-9 season, Chestatee head coach Bill Forman is putting his focus on player improvement to help the War Eagles get back to region prominence. Chestatee will continue to be a run-first team on offense and defense, but Forman said recently that he wanted to “create mismatches” by introducing his players to offshoots of typical plays. The hope, according to Forman, is to get his team ready for anything, a gamble likely to pay dividends in the fiercely competitive Region 8-AAAA. “We want to dictate the game the best we can,” said Forman. “We always say we want an offense to beat us left-handed. We want to try to create some mayhem.” Forman is debuting his second season as Chestatee coach by introducing seven new assistant coaches into the program, and celebrated the beginning of a ninth-grade team which should provide the team with fresh new talent. This year, he’ll be looking toward his group of running backs to carry the load. Nick Lyles, Baylee Camp, Jay Mays and Mohammed Salaam should all receive their fair share of carries, while Najee Whittle can make catches out of Forman’s pistol offense. Forman is likely to try out defenders in a variety of positions with seven returning starters. The War Eagles will have three challenging non region matchups against Flowery Branch, West Hall and Pepperell before taking on 8-AAAA powers North Oconee and Buford. But focusing on results, according to Forman, can be misleading in a season that will be predicated on improving his players’ skill sets. “We’re looking to be competitive and get back to our ways,” he said. “We knew we would take a couple lumps (last year), but they’re back and excited about the direction we’re headed. It’s a process.”
Offense
Times file photo
Returning starting quarterback Logan Cates will be given wide range to make decisions out of the hybrid pistol offense. Keeping him upright will be Austin Gean, Austin Cheshire, Mike McNerney, Barron King and Moises Cuevas. Whittle and Logan Idol are the main threats through the air, while Lyles, Mays and Camp are all liable to break off big runs. “I’m an option guy from way back,” said Forman. “I believe in the veer schemes and option schemes. If you look at Oregon, they’re running veer. We’re still true to the option concepts, we’re not too far removed from it.” Chestatee’s offense averaged 16.6 points per game last year after being shut out in the first two games of 2014.
Defense Jaime Arroyo, Austin Gean, Lyles and Camp will be up front on the defensive line, while King, Cates, Whittle, Idol and Cuevas can feature at defensive back. While much of Forman’s roster is relatively young, Forman said he was looking
A Chestatee defensive back breaks up a pass against Flowery Branch last season in Gainesvile.
forward to seeing how the players jell during game situations. “Arroyo is one of the better linebackers for us,” he said. “King and Cuevas make it happen for us. We’re young, but it’s been fun to see the young kids grow up a little bit.”
Coach’s Corner
Special teams Jaime Ortega will handle kicking duties, while Steven Martinez will punt. Mays and Lyles are both in charge of kickoff returns.
Outlook Controlling the run will be critical to Chestatee’s fortunes this year. The War Eagles gave up more than 30 points in seven of their nine losses in 2014. They lost four games despite scoring at least three touchdowns. If the D-line can jell the way Forman is hoping it will, the War Eagles might get back on track in the region.
Bill Forman
Coach’s record: 1-9 at school Region: 8-AAAA Returning starters: 7 on offense, 7 on defense Offensive strategy: Pistol Defensive strategy: 3-5
2015 ROSTER 2 Logan Cates 3 Baylee Camp 4 Nick Lyles 5 Najee Whittle 6 Wyatt Souther 7 Storm Yarbrough 8 Will Neller 9 Jacob Goodall 10 Jaime Ortega 11 Quran Salaam 12 Eddie Venegas 13 Hunter Gowin 14 Terrell Dixon 15 Aaron Gray 17 Charles Jackson 18 Kingston Morris 19 Preston Morris 21 Jay Mays 22 Muhammad Salam 23 Reggie James 24 Nadar Osman
QB/FS RB/S RB/LB WR/DB QB/FS QB/DB RB/S RB/S RB/TE WR/DB K/P RB/DB QB/S RB/S WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/FS RB/LB RB/LB RB/S
Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Fr. So. So. So. Fr. Sr. Fr. Fr. Fr. So. So. Jr. Fr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr.
25 Garrett Brader RB/S 27 Bryson Nowlin RB/LB 29 Auston Morris WR/DB 31 Salvador Juarez RB/DB 33 Steven Martinez K/P 34 Chance Gean WR/S 35 Jesus Garcia RB/DB 40 Daniel Briseno TE/LB 42 Jaime Arroyo TE/LB 44 Nick Beard RB/LB 47 Zach Baloga TE/LB 50 Alex Romero OG/DE 51 Carlos Salas OG/DE 52 Austin Gean OL/LB 53 Micah Flanagan OG/DE 54 Barron King OT/DE 55 Cooper Hammond OT/DE 56 Austin Cheshire OG/DE 57 Josh Hamilton OT/DE 58 Jacob Kanaday OT/DE 63 TJ Veasley OG/DE
Sr. Fr. Sr. Fr. So. So. Fr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Sr.
65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 77 78 79 81 82 84 86 92
Dakota Ivester OG/DE Mike McNerney OG/LB Jordan Eduardo OL/DL Ethan Pilgrim OL/DL Marlon Zavala OL/DL Michael Adomnik OL/DL Chance Morrison OL/DL Skyler Gooch OL/DL Alex Garza OL/DL Justin Browning OL/DL Gavin London OL/DL Moises Cuevas OT/DE Juaquin Aguilares OT/NG Jason Browning OL/DL Zacarie Teal WR/DB Brandon Cantrell WR/DB Keyshawn Morgan RB/DB Logan Idol WR/DB Landon Melendez OG/DE
Sr. Sr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Sr.
6
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
NORTH HALL TROJANS 2014 results: 2-8 overall, 2-5 Region 8-AAAA MVP Contenders
Maddox Turner Jr. RB/DB 5-10, 175
Turner is one of North Hall’s many undersized but hard-nosed players, according to his coach. Turner has experience running the ball and can be a big asset to the defense at linebacker.
Jake Meeler
Jr. TE/LB 6-2, 215 Meeler was forced into varsity action as a sophomore. Now, he’s got ample playing time and could be a weapon on both sides of the football.
Drew Atha
Jr. QB/DB 5-10, 175 Sidelined with injury to begin this season, Atha will likely provide the Trojans with a little punch to the offense when he returns to the lineup.
Chris Dennis
Sr. K 5-9, 160 Dennis has one of the best place-kicking legs in Northeast Georgia. Bishop said Dennis’ range goes all the way out to 55 yards on field goals.
Kyle Bacus
Jr. RB/LB 5-10, 170 Bacus isn’t afraid of contact, even though he’s not one of the biggest players on the field. Trojans coach David Bishop calls Bacus an ‘old-school North Hall player.’
team headquarters The Brickyard
Directions: Go north on Ga. 60 to Mount Vernon Road. Turn right, school is 4 miles ahead on left. Parking: Lots available in front of school and at North Hall Middle School.
KEY MATCHUP Sept. 25 vs. Stephens County The Trojans need a win to begin region play against the Indians with a tough three-game stretch to open 8-AAAA play. After Stephens County, North Hall faces North Oconee followed by Buford.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Sept. 4 at Jefferson Sept. 11 WEST HALL Sept. 18 CARROLLTON Sept. 25 STEPHENS COUNTY* Oct. 2 at North Oconee* Oct. 9 BUFORD* Oct. 16 at Madison County* Oct. 23 at Monroe Area* Oct. 30 CHESTATEE* Nov. 6 at White County* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 2-8, 2-5 Region 8-AAAA L Jefferson 48-8 L West Hall 38-0 L Carrollton 38-10 L Stephens Co 48-19 L North Oconee 42-6 L Buford 56-0 L Madison County 49-20 W Monroe Area 38-35 W Chestatee 28-17 L White County 40-14
Learning from experience Trojans optimistic for surge to top of region in 8-AAAA BY BILL MURPHY
bmurphy@gainesvilletimes.com North Hall coach David Bishop knows he’s got a group that will battle as hard as possible on the field for 2015. Last season, the Trojans stumbled to seven straight losses, before winning back-to-back region games against Monroe Area and Chestatee. While the playoffs were never in the picture late in the season, Bishop could see his group took a lot of pride in wearing the Trojans uniform. “Our team chose to fight last season, which says a lot to me,” said Bishop, who was 2-8 in his first season as head coach. Now with many of his returning players with a valuable year of varsity playing experience under their belts, Bishop said he hopes to see great strides and, hopefully, be in playoff contention in early November. With the composition of Region 8-AAAA, it’s almost a given that three-time defending state champion Buford will take the No. 1 spot into the postseason again. That leaves the seven remaining teams scrapping for the other three playoff spots. “I don’t think there’s a team in this region that’s not in the running for a playoff spot,” said Bishop, who was a long-time assistant under former coach Bob Christmas. As is normal with North Hall, two-way starters will be counted on to play well, in order to stay in the top half of the region. Both of the Trojans’ starters in its wing-T offense at running back, Maddox Turner and Kyle Bacus, also start on defense. Tight ends Jake Meeler and Mac Bennett, will also be needed to make big plays on defense. The Trojans are heavy with juniors in the starting lineup this season, after throwing 14 sophomores into action in 2014. Bishop said he’s ready to see what his undersized bunch can accomplish this season. “We’re young, but I’m excited about this team,” said Bishop. “We’re working harder now than ever. “I like our chances.”
Offense Now in his 15th year on North Hall’s staff, he’s going back to the offensive set which is almost exclusively run-based. Bishop was an assistant for 13 years, during which time the Trojans achieved great success with a line of great running backs in Christmas’ system. Turner and Bacus will be the backbone of the running game, after combining for 992 yards rushing last season. Speedy senior Sam Jackson, Cutter Sanford and Hudson Brown will also factor into the offense running the ball. At quarterback, things are still a bit up in the air. Jackson Madonna is set to start, while Noah Holman will also play at other times under center. Senior Drew Atha was expected to start, but he’s recovering still from a nagging achillies injury, Bishop said. Four players, including Nathan
Times file photo
North Hall’s Kyle Bacus (27) attempts to push his way through Flowery Branch’s Anthony Woodall (44) and Jasen Johnson (7) during the Northeast Georgia Preseason Kickoff Classic at North Hall High School on Aug. 14.
coach’s corner
Last year’s leaders Passing
Yds TDs Comp%
*Drew Atha 243
Receiving
*Mac Bennett
Rushing
David Bishop
Coach’s record: 2-8 at school; 2-8 career Region: 8-AAAA Returning starters: 3 on offense, 4 on defense Offensive strategy: Wing-T Defensive strategy: 3-4
Kinney, Tyrk Dozier, Josh Parrish and Jacob Munion, will all see time at wide receiver. Even though the left tackle spot has yet to be settled, the rest of the offensive line has some depth. Tackles include Corben Davis, Jake Walden and Sam DeLong. Cody Marchbanks, Dylan Murphy, Gavin Berry and Pablo Chavarria will all see time at guard. The center will be Owen Clark or Cameron Jeffery.
Defense
*Maddox Turner *Kyle Bacus Austin Perry Bobby Mendenhall *Drew Atha
3
Rec Yds TDs 4 128 2
Yds TDs Avg 574 4 4.3 418 2 5 369 2 5.2 175 2 3.9 117 5 2.2
Special teams Chris Dennis, a three-year starter, is back to kick again for the Trojans. He’s one of the strongest kickers in Northeast Georgia, with a 55-yard field goal during his North Hall career. Kinney and Atha will handle the punting. Jackson, Dozier and Sanford will share in kicking and punt return duties.
Outlook
Many of the players who start on offense will also start on defense. Bennett, Davis, Walden and Christian Barbosa will all play along the defensive front. Murphy, Meeler, Berry and Caleb Shoemaker are the top athletes at linebacker. Defensive backs include Jackson and Turner at safety. Munion, Dozier and Sanford are the leading names at cornerback.
North Hall rarely stays down for long. The last time the Trojans had back-to-back losing seasons was 2000-2001. This year, the Trojans have ample experience back from a rocky 2014 season. The key will be to survive a three-game stretch to open Region 8-AAAA play against Stephens County, North Oconee and Buford (combined 18-3 in region last season). After that, the schedule will get a little more manageable.
25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 44 48 49 51 52 53 54 55 56 57
58 59 60 61 62 63 65 66 67 68 71 74 75 76 80 81 83 84 85 86
2015 ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 24
Tyrik Dozier Noah Holman Michael Dozier Peyton Mavity Josh Parrish David Seavey Josh Cook Taylor Clark Darrien Ingram Maddox Turner Jackson Madonna Jacob Munion Landon Earnest A.J. Waterer Chris Dennis Chris Thrasher Lance Clark Jake Bracewell Drew Atha Isaac Carney Sam Jackson David Seid Daniel Jackson
WR/DB Sr. QB/LB So. WR/DB Sr. RB/DB So. WR/DB Jr. QB/DB Fr. QB/DB Fr. WR/DB Sr. RB/LB Sr. RB/DB Jr. QB/LB Jr. WR/DB Jr. WR/DB So. WR/DB Jr. K Sr. RB/DB Fr. RB/LB So. WR/DB Sr. QB/DB Sr. RB/DB Fr. RB/DB Sr. RB/DB Jr. RB/DB Fr.
42
Hudson Brown Drew Faulkner Kyle Bacus Jack Brown Austin Gonzalez Joseph Steele Sanford Cutter Colby Miller Chris Briscoe Caleb Shoemaker Desman Russell Miguel Elias Alan Stone Nathan Kinney Mac Bennett Jake Meeler Corben Davis Cody Marchbanks Tyler Dispain Mitchell Seymour Gavin Berry Owen Clark Jake Walden
RB/LB Jr. RB/DB Fr. RB/LB Jr. RB/LB So. RB/LB Jr. RB/DB Sr. RB/DB So. RB/LB Sr. RB/DB Fr. RB/LB Jr. RB/DB Fr. WR/DB Fr. WR/DB So. WR/LB Sr. TE/LB Jr. TE/LB Jr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Sr. OL/LB So. OL/LB Sr. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Sr.
Fowler Moore Cesar Chavarria Cameron Jeffery Christian Barbossa Dylan Murphy Kaden Ramos Colton Sheffield Pablo Chavarria Austin Lovell Dylan Hughes Kade Poreda Samuel Delong Alex Powell Logan Jackson Will Pope Quincey Vines Trey Pardue Ian Little Chase Hughes Alec Swanson Shaun Kelley
OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/LB OL/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/LB OL/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL TE/DL WR/DB TE/DL TE/DL TE/DL WR/LB OL/LB
Fr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Fr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Fr. So. Jr. So. Fr. Sr. Sr. So. So. So. Fr. Fr.
CMYK 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
The Times, Gainesville, Georgia |
gainesvilletimes com
Sunday, Sunday, August August 23,23, 2015 2015
Thank You from the
oN aNd Spirit CheerleaderS
mpetiti 2015 North hall SeNior Co
ines, Courtney Carroll, Go y hle As , ith Sm ah nn va Sa t: Left to Righ sey Burchett, Abby Cape, Ashleigh Andrews, Ka Flanagan Paige Milford, Julie Dyer, Alexis
North hall
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A7 7
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The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
WEST HALL SPARTANS 2014 results: 9-2 overall, 6-0 Region 7-AAA MVP contenders
Tyquan Statham Sr. RB/OLB 6-1, 215 Statham projects as an outside linebacker at the next level and has offers from several Division-I FBS schools. With the Spartans, he also acts as a physical running back and can slide back to safety on defense, if needed.
Kwon Williams
Sr. RB/S 5-11, 200 Williams acts as an explosive weapon, one who piled up 1,700 all-purpose yards and 20 touchdowns last season.
Looking to remain on top Spartans aim to build on first region crown By Jared Putnam
jputnam@gainesvilletimes.com
Anthony Lotti Sr. P 6-1, 190
The punt may be the single most important play in football, and Lotti, a Wisconsin recruit, gives the Spartans a leg up in that department.
Tristian Hester
Sr. RB/DB 5-8, 180 Hester gives the Spartans valuable depth in the secondary and as a return specialist.
Jacob Satterfield Jr. QB 6-3, 185
The Spartans rely heavily on their running game, but Satterfield proved to be a capable game manager in his first year as a starting QB.
team headquarters Spartan Field, Oakwood
Directions: From Gainesville, take I-985 South, then Exit 17 and turn right on Ga. 53. After about two miles, turn left on McEver Rd. School is two miles ahead on the right. Parking: In front of stadium and school.
Key matchup Nov. 6 at Lumpkin County West Hall was not able to clinch the Region 7-AAA title until the final week of the regular season in 2014, all because of pesky Lumpkin County. The Indians presented the greatest threat to the Spartans’ claim on the top spot in 7-AAA and should remain a contender for one of the region’s top spots.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 JOHNSON Sept. 4 at Chestatee Sept. 11 at North Hall Sept. 18 NORTH OCONEE Sept. 25 *DAWSON COUNTY Oct. 9 *at East Hall Oct. 16 *FRANKLIN COUNTY Oct. 23 *at Fannin County Oct. 30 *BANKS COUNTY Nov. 6 *at Lumpkin County * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 9-2, 6-0 Region 7-AAA W W W L W W W W W W
Johnson Chestatee North Hall North Oconee Dawson County East Hall Franklin County Fannin County Banks County Lumpkin County
28-0 31-0 38-0 28-10 26-3 51-22 27-12 49-0 23-7 35-0
Class AAA state playoffs L Oconee County
42-38
West Hall achieved something that no Spartans football team had done before when it won a region title last season. The Spartans accomplished that feat in impressive fashion, averaging 31.8 points per game during the regular season while allowing only 7.2 en route to a 9-2 record. Fourth-year coach Tony Lotti believes West Hall should be even better in 2015, but he remains wary of the rest of Region 7-AAA, and the bullseye his program will have on its back. “It’s going to be a little different role for us this year because we had some success last year,” he said. “Everybody, I guess, is going to be looking to knock us off. “I still feel like I felt last year, that any team in this region can beat anybody else. We’ve got to bring it every Friday and can’t have an off night.” Lotti emphasized to his players the importance of learning how to handle success last year, with the team fresh off snapping a decade-long playoff drought in 2013. He believes that mentality is just as important this year, and he often points out that not everything went according to plan in 2014. “As I’m quick to remind the kids, we had a major letdown in the first round (of the state playoffs),” Lotti said. “Oconee County came to play, and we didn’t wake up until the second half.” Oconee County won the game 42-38, ending West Hall’s promising playoff run just as it was getting started. Lotti believes this group of Spartans is well-suited to learn from the success and disappointment they experienced last season, both with their mindset and their abilities on the field. “The leadership that we seem to have right now, I’ve been very pleased with it,” he said. “During spring practice and our summer program, I didn’t have to deal with a lot of the issues I had in previous years. “We have a lot of talent coming back. There are three (future) Division-I FBS players on this team.”
Offense Two of the Spartans’ future FBS players will power the team’s rushing attack for one more season. Senior running back Kwon Williams ran for 1,700 all-purpose yards last season, including 1,108 yards on the ground, to go along with 20 touchdowns. His list of offers includes Vanderbilt, Wake Forest and N.C. State. Senior Tyquan Statham added 883 rushing yards and eight touchdowns while providing an even more intimidating presence on the other side of the ball as the Region 7-AAA Defensive Player of the Year. He has received offers from several schools, including Boston College, Virginia and Duke. “We’ll have all those guys back, even the kids that rotated in,” Lotti said of his backfield. “I feel like we’re really pretty deep there and can give teams a lot of different looks with some speed. We’re going to get the ball in those kids hands and try to create some space for them.” Junior Jacob Satterfield retains the starting quarterback job after stepping into the
Times file photo
West Hall running back Kwon Williams finds a hole in the Chestatee defense last year during a game in Oakwood.
coach’s corner
Last year’s leaders Rushing
Yds TDs Avg. *Kwon Williams 1,100 20 10.9 *Tyquan Statham 883 10 10.1
Defense
Tackles Sacks Ty Statham 93 3.5
Coach: Tony Lotti
Coach’s Record: 18-14 at school, 18-14 career Region: 7-AAA Returning starters: 7 on offense, 8 on defense Offensive strategy: Multiple Defensive strategy: 3-4 Playoff history: Qualified each of the past two years
role as a sophomore. Lotti said Satterfield has done a lot of maturing both physically and mentally since his first season under center and has the potential to do “big things” with the offense. Satterfield’s list of wide receiver targets will include senior Hykeem Bennett and juniors Will Dague and Tommy Oliver. Junior Patrick Hudson will line up at tight end. The most significant change for West Hall this season comes along the offensive line, where the Spartans have four new starters. Lotti said the group has played a lot of football despite not being true starters last season, and should be bigger than last year’s offensive line. The group includes senior Justyn Derico, an all-region first team selection on the defensive line in 2014, and sophomore Josh Taylor, a player Lotti has been high on since middle school.
Defense The Spartans bring back eight starters from a defense that shut out its first three opponents in 2014 and finished with five shutouts for the season. Lotti believes the defense will continue to be the Spartans’ backbone. “We put up great numbers offensively (last year), but when I look at stats, the thing that’s most important to me is turnovers,” Lotti said. “We were plus-14 last year in turnover margin.” Derico will remain part of the defensive line, along with junior Michael Kidd. Senior Marvin Mejia and juniors Justin
FF 2
*returning playerr
Hearn and Tyrese Osborne will remain part of the linebacker rotation. Statham, who primarily played safety last season, moves to outside linebacker to fill the spot vacated when his brother Ty Statham graduated in the spring. Tyquan Statham could still spend some time at safety, but Williams and sophomore Carter Lott will handle the bulk of those duties. A.J. Favorite and junior Ashun Favorite will fill out the rest of the secondary at the cornerback spots.
Special teams Former Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel was famous for calling the punt the most important play in football. Lotti, a former college punter himself, agrees with Tressel on that much, and has a talented punter on the roster in the form of his own son, Anthony. The younger Lotti, a Wisconsin commit, was an all-state selection last year as a junior. “Field position is everything, in my opinion,” Coach Lotti said. Following the departure of Brad Hodgson, an all-state pick himself as a senior last year, West Hall will hand all kicking duties to senior Cesar Villa. Villa handled kickoff duties last year and boasted a strong leg that resulted in 50 touchbacks. Williams will continue to handle the primary return specialist duties.
Outlook None of the Spartans’ Region 7-AAA rivals were able to play with them for a full four quarters last season, and there’s little reason to consider West Hall anything other than the favorite to repeat as region champion. The team’s new offensive line will have to prove itself, but all the other pieces are in place for West Hall to secure another home playoff game and get a chance to atone for its early postseason exit last year.
2015 ROSTER 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 19 20 21
Tyquan Statham Sr. Hykeem Bennett Sr. Kwon Williams Sr. Ashun Favorite Jr. AJ Favorite Jr. Tristian Hester Sr. Will Dague Jr. Darius Coleman Blair Sr. Patrick Hudson Jr. Gabriel Gantt So. Anthony Lotti Sr. Jacob Satterfield Jr. Cameron Shirley So. Quentin Smith Fr. Jesse Bridgewater Sr. Tommy Oliver Jr.
22 Cesar Villa 23 Israel Lopez 25 Malcolm Prather 26 Robbie Locklear 27 John Stoecker 28 Cooper Adams 29 Carter Lott 30 Devon Williams 31 Jeremiah Prather 32 TK Hendrix 34 Tyrese Osborne 35 PJ Thornton 36 Austin Sinclair 38 Austin Smith 41 Collin Adams 42 Chandler Pittman
Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Fr. So. So. Fr. Fr. So. Jr. So. So. Fr. Jr. Jr.
49 Nathan Kovack 50 Justin Hearn 51 Marvin Mejia 52 Ian Wilson 54 Canaan Kirby 55 Michael Kidd 56 Andrew Lilly 57 Jackson Bartlett 58 Jetrin Rattanaxay 59 Cory Davis 60 Justyn Derico 62 Kaleb Floyd 63 Backam Nguyen 64 Shane Stasierowski 65 Willie Ellison 66 Hayden Lee
Fr. Jr. Sr. So. Fr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Jr. So. Sr. So. Fr. So. Fr. Sr.
68 Ricky Castillo 70 Brenden Armour 71 Matthew Sinclair 72 Damien Fouts 73 Dylan Bandke 74 Jarrett Turner 75 Alex Allen 76 Josh Taylor 77 James Rivett 78 Josh Pittman 79 Eli Bowles 83 Wesley Burgess 84 Gavin Armour 86 Hunter Rainey 88 George Lira 89 Michael Crain
Fr. Jr. Fr. So. So. Sr. Fr. So. So. Sr. So. So. So. Fr. Jr. Fr.
9
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
EAST HALL vikings 2014 results: 6-5, First round Class AAA state playoffs mvp contenders
Jacquen Hopkins Sr. CB/WR 5-10, 175 Hopkins, a two-sport athlete who also stars on the basketball team, will continue to be a strong leader on the gridiron. Gray has high goals for him catching passes on the offense and breaking them up in the secondary.
Jiel Vargas
Sr. WR/LB 5-6, 163 Operating out of the “Frankenstein offense,” according to Gray, Vargas is expected to break tackles and gain valuable first downs.
Tommie Peebles Sr. C 5-11, 260
For Vargas to get running room, he’ll rely on Peebles and an enthusiastic O-line with Peebles leading from the front.
SKILL-PLAYER ORIENTED East Hall set to rely on talented running backs, wide receivers BY DAVID THACKHAM
dthackham@gainesvilletimes.com
Jackie Clark
Sr. DE/G 6-1, 290 Peebles and Clark are seen as the de facto leaders on both sides of the line. “They have to set the tone and leadership,” according to head coach Gray.
Austin Parker So. QB 5-8, 154
One of the leading candidates at the quarterback position, Parker can also make plays at free safety.
team headquarters East Hall Stadium, Gainesville Directions: From Gainesville, take Jesse Jewell Pkwy North. Turn right onto Old Cornelia Hwy. through Rabbittown. Stadium is just past school on left. Parking: Lot is in front of stadium.
KEY MATCHUP Oct. 9 vs. West Hall Rivalry games in Hall County are more popular than any other date on the calendar. The Vikings won’t be intimidated by the reigning Region 7-AAA champions when they welcome their visitors from Oakwood.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 WESLEYAN Sept. 4 PICKENS Sept. 18 at Jackson County Sept. 25 at Lumpkin County* Oct. 2 DAWSON COUNTY* Oct. 9 WEST HALL* Oct. 16 at Johnson Oct. 23 at Franklin County* Oct. 30 FANNIN COUNTY* Nov. 8 at Banks County* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 6-5, 4-2 Region 7-AAA W Wesleyan 20-13 L Pickens 38-10 L Jackson County 31-6 L Lumpkin County 38-35 W Dawson County 36-29 L West Hall 51-22 W Johnson 42-23 W Franklin County 34-7 W Fannin County 38-20 W Banks County 35-21 Class AAA state playoffs L Hart County 42-14
Bryan Gray will be fielding a young, ambitious team for East Hall in 2015 — a prospect that has the veteran head coach excited for the season ahead. The Vikings are short on experience, but will boast an imposing running game in order to compete in Region 7-AAA against reigning champions and county rivals West Hall. Following the graduation of quarterback Devin Watson, who is set to play at Wofford College, Gray’s team will revert to a “pound the ground” approach that should mimic its closest competitors, like the Spartans, Lumpkin County and Dawson County. The Vikings boast 17 seniors and 10 juniors on their roster. “With all the change and turnover of last year, I love the enthusiasm of this group,” said Gray. “We’re having a blast this year. It’s exciting. They know they’ve got something special, we just need to lead ourselves to be successful.” Running back Jiel Vargas and talented wide-out Jacquen Hopkins will be appealing targets for the Vikings starting quarterback. Austin Parker, Markese Jackson and Zander Mann are all possibilities under center, but the starter isn’t likely to be announced until closer to kick-off on Aug. 28 against Class AA Wesleyan. The defensive line will take on a new look after graduating all but one starter. Jackie Clark is likely to lead from the front, while Hopkins has the chance to lead a strong nucleus of defensive backs. The goal this year will be to take East Hall back to the promised land. The Vikings made their first trip to the postseason in nine years last season. Gray’s team will want to make sure they reach that target again. “Everybody in our region will take a huge leap forward,” said Gray. “We’ll see a number of teams that can compete.”
Offense The Vikings have their sights set on being a running team that pushes the tempo and doesn’t allow for defenses to rest, according to Gray. To enforce their will, they’ll need linemen Tommie Peebles and Clark to allow enough running room for Vargas, Deon Ellison, and a host of young rushers to break out for meaningful yardage. Rex Purgason is the team’s leading receiver (32 receptions, 366 yards), but he won’t be able to feature until possibly October after suffering a shoulder injury in a recent practice. In his place, Hopkins will saddle most of the passing attack from either Parker, Jackson or Mann. “We like to know that we’re going to get that extra yard,” said Gray. “We’ve been
Times file photo
Former East Hall quarterback Devin Watson (3) eludes a West Hall defender during a game last season in Oakwood.
Last year’s leaders
Coach’s Corner
Passing Yds TDs Comp% 1755 16 57
Devin Watson
Receiving
Rec Yds TDs
*Rex Purgason *Jacquen Hopkins Junior Lee
32 29 22
Rushing Coach’s record: 26-55 at school, 26-55 career Region: 7-AAA Returning starters: 4 on offense, 4 on defense Offensive strategy: Option Defensive strategy: Multiple
Jacques Ash *Jiel Vargas
Defense
Ronnie Peebles Juwan Merrit Brandon Tate
4 7 4
Yds TDs Avg 772 8 5.8 240 2 4.5
Bryan Gray
366 413 425
Tkl TFL 63 2 49 1 40 8
INT 1 1 0 *returning starter
stopped too much on third and short. Last year, we relied on having most of our scores being big plays, but we need to drive it down the field, chunks at a time.”
said Gray. “Who we are, what we do. That’ll set the tone going into the week.”
Defense
Gray is still determining who he’ll tab for punting and kicking duties. Hopkins will be the return man for punts and kickoffs.
Gray calls his team’s secondary a strength, mainly because there are three returning starters from 2014. The line will be led by Clark, while Andrew Arrowood, Shane Talley and Jesse Peterson are expected to be strong at linebacker. The offensive and defensive linemen recently spent time at summer camps in the hopes of developing a “physical nature” to compete with their region rivals. “We open with one of the best teams in the state (Wesleyan) ... we really have to find our identity going into the bye week,”
Special teams
Outlook Hopkins is a vital cog in East Hall’s machine this year. If the Vikings can get the ball to him early and often, the Vikings have a chance to repeat their second-place finish in the region. Success will be measured in making sure the offensive and defensive lines mesh before starting region play on Sept. 25.
2015 ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Deonte Evans WR/DB So. Jacquen Hopkins WR/DB Sr. Austin Parker QB/DB So. Brian Holcomb RB/LB So. Markese Jackson QB/DB Jr. Austin Brock WR/DB So. Jiel Vargas RB/LB Sr. James Stoudenmire WR/DB So. Jesse Peterson RB/LB Sr. Rex Purgason WR/LB Sr. Roger Keebaugh WR/DB Sr. Tripp Rider WR/LB So. Brayan Lopez WR/DL So. Triquece Ware WR/DB Sr. Levi Woodring WR/LB Sr. Brock Griffin WR/DB Sr. Larkin White WR/DB So. Zander Mann QB/DB Fr.
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37
Nolan Johnson Amir Ellison Angel Vargas Deon Ellison David Salazar Carlos Salazar Giezi Barrientos Joseph Smith Cambren Harrison Zantha Man Pierre Lyles Kaia Rice Elijah Finch Andrew Randall Leonel Jimenez Mike Matuska Jairo Alarcon Jorge Rodriguez
WR/DB So. WR/DB So. WR/DB So. RB/LB Jr. WR/LB Fr. WR/DB Sr. WR/DB So. RB/LB Jr. RB/DB Fr. WR/DB Fr. WR/DB Fr. WR/DB Fr. WR/LB Fr. RB/DB Fr. RB/LB Sr. WR/LB Fr. RB/DB Fr. RB/DB Fr.
38 44 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61
Noah Dyer Jacob Wade Keenan Lott Tristan Rhodes Will Talley Logan Carder Ramir Bledson Luis Caudillo Isaiah Jenkins Tommie Peebles Dylan Finely Jackie Clark Chase Mullins Daniel Restrepo Chase Dale Javier Garcia Andrew Arrowood Nate Guest
RB/LB Jr. RB/LB So. WR/LB Fr. WR/LB Sr. WR/DB Fr. WR/DB So. OL/DL So. OL/DL Sr. OL/LB So. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Sr. OL/LB Fr. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Fr. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL So.
62 63 64 66 68 69 70 71 72 73 75 76 77 80 88
Marco Gonzalez OL/LB Fr. Carlos Zaragoza OL/DL Fr. Jose Jaramillo OL/DL Fr. Austin Haynes OL/DL Jr. Ivan Flores OL/DL Jr. Shane Talley OL/LB Jr. Ricky Aguilar OL/DL So. Gio Rebollar OL/DL So. Gabriel Ortiz OL/DL Fr. Jesse Winters OL/DL Sr. J.D. Lee OL/DL Fr. Andrew Crawford OL/DL So. Kevin Thompson OL/DL Sr. Darrin Robinson WR/DB Fr. Ladarius Vanison WR/DB Fr.
10
Sunday, August 23, 2015
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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1
Sunday, August 23, 2015
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
PLATINUM PLAYERS Elite 11
Chris Byrd
As the 2015 season nears, area football players will put down their video games and focus on the task at hand — taking their teams to a state championship. Throughout The Times’ coverage area, there are several standout players who will be crucial to whether their teams rise to the challenge or falter under the pressure. Whether they’re highly-rated defensive ends or all-state kickers, each one of our Elite 11 players has what it takes to make their video game fantasies a reality.
Shug Frazier ■■ DT, Buford Sr. ■■ 6-foot-2, 320 pounds ■■ 22 solo tackles, two recovered fumbles
Strengths
Trucking
■■ WR, Gainesville Sr. ■■ 5-foot-10, 190 pounds ■■ Ran for 204 yards, recorded 122 receiving yards, 82 tackles
Strengths
Catching Agility Kwon Williams ■■ RB/DB, West Hall Sr. ■■ 6-foot-1, 200 pounds ■■ Rushed for 609 yards, 11 TDs
Strengths
Blocking
Elusiveness Vision
Xavier Gantt
Tyquan Statham
■■ RB, Buford Sr. ■■ 5-foot-10, 170 pounds ■■ Rushed for 699 yards, 10 TDs
Strengths
Quick feet
■■ ATH, West Hall Sr. ■■ 6-foot-1, 190 pounds ■■ Rushed for 500 yards, four TDs
Strengths
Sprinting
Blocking Pace
Orion Pittman
Anthony Lotti
■■ FS/WR, Johnson Sr. ■■ 6-foot-1, 185 pounds ■■ 88 tackles, two INTs, started 30 games heading into senior year
Strengths
Tracking Coordination Trevae Cain ■■ ATH, Banks County Sr. ■■ 5-foot-11, 185 pounds ■■ Rushed for 871 yards, 16 TDs
Strengths
Finishing
■■ Punter, West Hall Sr. ■■ 6-foot-1, 190 pounds ■■ Averaged 45 yards per punt, long of 72 yards, committed to Wisconsin
Strengths
Accuracy Placement Chandler Staton ■■ Kicker, Gainesville Sr. ■■ 5-foot-11, 170 pounds ■■ 9-for-9 on field goals, 35 of 36 on extra points
Strengths
Power
Balance Consistency
Emmanuel McNeil
Zach Matthews
■■ DE, Riverside Jr. ■■ 6-foot-5, 260 pounds ■■ 45 tackles, six tackles for loss, four sacks
Strengths
Tackling Reactions
■■ QB, Lumpkin Co., Jr. ■■ 6-foot-1, 210 pounds ■■ Ran for 1,376 rushing yards, 18 rushing TDs, 41 tackles
Strengths
Poise Power
2
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
jOHNSON KNIGHTS 2014 results: 2-8 overall, non-region schedule MVP contenders
Orion Pittman Sr. WR/DB 6-1, 175 Pittman leads Johnson’s secondary, the strength of the team’s defense. He has started each of the team’s 30 games over the past three seasons. He posted 88 tackles, five passes broken up and two interceptions last year as a junior.
Eli Vasquez
Sr. OL/DL 6-0, 245 Vasquez is the centerpiece of the defensive line this year. The senior’s versatility allows him to play all three positions.
Chandler Barkley So. WR/DB 6-4, 215
Barkley brings a physical presence to the Knights’ receivers — a position that is crucial for blocking in the team’s triple option offense.
Cody Long
Jr. RB/LB 6-0, 185 Long will be a key member of the Knights’ three-man fullback rotation this season.
Cameron McCarthy
Jr. OL/DL 6-4, 235 McCarthy moves to tackle after two years at center. He is one of three returning offensive linemen.
team headquarters Billy Ellis Memorial, Oakwood Directions: Take I-985 to Exit 17, turn left on Mundy Mill Road. Then left onto Ga. Hwy. 13, followed by a right onto Poplar Springs Road. School is 1/4 mile on left. Parking: Behind gym and to the right on athletic fields’ access road.
key matchup Sept. 25 vs. Riverside Johnson picked up its first win of the season in a relatively close county rivalry game against Riverside Military last season. With the Knights playing a non-region schedule and the Eagles in Class AA, the matchup presents both squads with an opportunity to earn bragging rights over a Hall County opponent.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 21 MADISON COUNTY Aug. 28 at West Hall Sept. 4 at Banks County Sept. 11 LUMPKIN COUNTY Sept. 18 at Pickens Sept. 25 RIVERSIDE MILITARY Oct. 9 at Osborne Oct. 16 EAST HALL Oct. 30 at Franklin County Nov. 6 DAWSON COUNTY Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 2-8, 0-0 Region 8-AAAA L L L L L W W L L L
Madison County West Hall Banks County Lumpkin County Pickens Riverside Military Osborne East Hall Franklin County Dawson County
31-3 28-0 28-4 14-3 49-6 16-7 13-0 42-23 14-13 28-0
Getting the pieces in place Knights hope balance carries team to success By Jared Putnam
jputnam@gainesvilletimes.com Jason Roquemore believes this is a pivotal year for the Johnson football program. After producing a 6-4 record in Roquemore’s first season as coach in 2012, the Knights have been held to just four wins over the past two seasons. The coach thinks the Knights have been closer to success than their recent win-loss record might indicate, and they may finally have all the components in place to bounce back. “The last two years we’ve had consecutive (difficult) seasons,” Roquemore said. “It’s been disappointing, but in the same sense we just haven’t been able to capitalize in key situations. “In order to run the triple option you’ve got to have good quarterback play, good fullback play and you’ve got to be able to block (outside). This is the first year that we feel like we can do all those things on a high level, so we feel we’ve got a more complete group in that sense.” Johnson’s roster includes 23 seniors this season — the first group to go through all four years of the program under Roquemore.
Offense The Knights will turn to freshman Sam Corbett at quarterback. According to Roquemore, what Corbett lacks in experience, he makes up for in raw talent. “It’s been one of the most competitive positions we’ve had,” Roquemore said. “We feel really good about Sam Corbett and how much growth he’s shown from spring from now. He throws it better than anybody we’ve had.” But the focus of Johnson’s triple-option offense is on the ground, where senior Armando Camacho will lead the way at running back. “His physical presence and the things he’s been able to do is going to be key, Roquemore said. Camacho will be joined in the backfield by three different fullbacks: juniors Cody Long and Ethan Emmett, and sophomore Victor Pittman. Roquemore also expects junior Chandler Barkley, a 6-foot-4, 210-pound wide receiver, to play a pivotal role. “I’m fired up about the physical presence that Chandler Barkley has brought to our receiver corps,” Roquemore said. The Knights return three of their five starting offensive linemen from last season, including 6-foot-4, 240-pound junior Cameron McCarthy, who has moved to tackle after playing center each of the past two years.
Defense Johnson returns its entire starting defensive line from 2014, led by Eli Vasquez, a 5-11, 245-pound senior who can play any spot in the trenches. Senior Andrew Temple and junior Austin Ridley are also back. The Knights’ linebacker corps was the lone defensive group to lose players in the offseason. Though Johnson returns only one linebacker this year, Roquemore has already seen positive things out of one junior in particular. “I’m really excited about the play of Fernando Ruiz,” the coach said. “He brings
Times file photo
Former Johnson quarterback Chase Sims finds running room against East Hall during a game last season at East hall Stadium.
Coach’s corner
Last year’s leaders Defense
Tkl PBU INT *Orion Pittman 88 5 2 *returning player
Special teams Senior Isaac Henry will handle the Knights’ kicking and punting duties for a fourth straight season. Fellow senior Darian Bunch will act as the team’s primary return specialist.
Coach: Jason Roquemore Coach’s Record: 10-20 at school, 10-20 career Region: 8-AAAA (non-region schedule) Returning starters: 6 on offense, 7 on defense Offensive strategy: Triple option Defensive strategy: 3-4 Playoff history: Last qualified in 2004
toughness.” Like the defensive line, Johnson’s secondary remains intact from 2014. The unit is led by senior Orion Pittman, who has started each of the team’s 30 games during the past three seasons. Pittman tallied 88 tackles, five passes broken up and two interceptions last year. “That’s where we feel like our strength is,” Roquemore said of the secondary. Junior Dillon Berry also brings “an athletic presence” to the cornerback spot.
Outlook Don’t be fooled by the Knights’ non-region schedule. Each of their first five opponents finished at or above .500 during the regular season in 2014, and three of those teams — West Hall, Lumpkin County and Pickens — earned one of the top two spots in their respective regions. “I think when we made our schedule two years ago we tried to be very aggressive and schedule some high-quality football teams early on,” Roquemore said. “A lot of people point to us playing a non-region schedule, but if you compare it to some schools in the area, we play a highly competitive schedule.” That level of competition could make it tougher for Johnson to post a significant turnaround in 2015, but Roquemore is excited about the potential of a group of players he has been involved with since the first day they set foot on campus in 2012. “The biggest thing is these kids believe in atmosphere, purpose and winning every day,” he said.
2015 ROSTER 1 Reid Dougherty RB/DB 3 Jake Millwood RB/LB 5 David Rivera WR/DB 6 Jarius Watson WR/LB 7 Darian Bunch QB/DB 8 Sam Corbett QB/DB 9 Hannah Hester K 10 A.T Young WR/DB 11 Bashawn Spencer WR/DB 12 Eric Gallardo RB/DB 14 Ethan Bruce RB/DB 15 Dillon Berry QB/DB 16 Isiah Torres WR/DB 17 Isaac Henry K 18 Chris Francisco WR/DB
Jr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Fr. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr.
19 Jackson Barkley K 20 Darius Patrick WR/DB 21 Chandler Barkley WR/DB 22 Jose Morales K 25 Orion Pittman WR/DB 26 Cody Long RB/LB 27 Ricky Bui RB/LB 30 Bradley Williams WR/DB 32 Ethan Emmett RB/LB 33 Brayson Farmer WR/DB 34 Victor Pittman RB/LB 35 A. J. Buendia WR/DB 37 Axel Cruz WR/DB 41 Carlos Orrellana WR/DB 43 David Urso WR/RB
Fr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Fr.
44 Armando Camacho RB/LB 48 Brandon Berry RB/DB 50 Fernando Ruiz OL/LB 51 Ezequiel Velasquez OL/DL 53 Eli Vasquez OL/DL 55 Jordan Robinson OL/DL 56 Jake Bowers OL/DL 57 Jason Orrellana OL/DL 59 Kyle Jones OL/DL 60 Cameron McCarthy OL/DL 61 Freddy Denard OL/LB 62 Killian Brown OL/DL 63 Daniel Erazo OL/DL 64 Andrew Temple OL/DL 65 Austin Ridley OL/DL
Sr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr.
66 Anthony Reyes OL/DL 67 Ethan Nguyen OL/DL 68 Ivan Lopez OL/DL 70 Joshua Garcia OL/DL 71 Platinum Thompson OL/DL 72 Brice Orr OL/DL 73 Brennan Boger OL/DL 74 Rolando Guerrero OL/DL 76 Jordan Randolph OL/DL 77 Ulysses Velasquez OL/DL 81 Erik Madera WR/DB 84 Colin McClure WR/DB 87 Dylan Thomas WR/DB 88 Gage Norris WR/DB 90 Jenry Villalobos WR/DB
So. Fr. Jr. So. Fr. Sr. So. So. Sr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Sr. So. Sr.
2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW | The Times | Gainesville, Ga.
3
Sunday, August 23, 2015
RIVERSIDE EAGLES 2014 results: 3-7 overall, 2-4 Region 8-AA MVP CONTENDERS
Emmanuel McNeil Jr. DE/T 6-5, 260
Expected to be the leader of the defense, McNeil will command double-teams throughout the season, which could open up holes for other playmakers to get pressure on the quarterback.
Elijah Watson
Jr. DE 6-3, 245 Head coach Kelly Davis says Watson is the “heartbeat” of the team, and often can be an on-the-field coach to help communicate plays between the team.
Jordan Ainslie
Sr. K/P 6-2, 185 The senior will be in charge of kickoffs, field goals and PATs this season. “Nothing rattles him at all,” according to Davis. He converted a 45-yard field goal during a recent scrimmage.
Tevarris Hooks
Sr. NG 6-2, 200 A two-front threat, Hooks will be in charge of pushing the tempo on offense and defense.
Sean Allison
So. QB 6-3, 175 Davis is hoping to use Allison’s composed presence in the pocket to Riverside’s advantage. If the Eagles can establish play action, they can use their run game to full effect.
team headquarters Maginnis Field, Gainesville
Directions: Travel north on US-129 and turn left onto Riverside Drive. Stadium is 1 mile on the right. Parking: Available on in front of the stadium and in the real lot adjacent to the stadium.
KEY MATCHUP
New coach, new mindset Eagles looking to use intimidating defense to earn respect in region BY DAVID THACKHAM
dthackham@gainesvilletimes.com There’s no room for complacency in Kelly Davis’ new system at Riverside Military Academy. And the players are loving the opportunity to try new things, according to the first-year head coach. Behind an experienced and hungry defense, combined with an offense that will show more versatility than years past, Riverside is hunting for the chance to make the Class AA playoffs for the first time since 2009. Davis took over from previous coach Gary Downs this offseason when Downs decided to take a position at East Tennessee State University. Davis had been a defensive specialist at Riverside since 2012 and was offered the job almost immediately. It was his first head coaching job. “I met with the athletic director and the president, and they told me, ‘If you want it, it’s yours,’” said Davis. “I can’t explain how grateful I am with that opportunity.” The Eagles will combine talented individuals with a balanced playbook to help gain respect in Region 8-AA.
Offense
Oct. 9 at WashingtonWilkes Mobile quarterback Avery Cagle (1 TD, 35 rushing yards) was Riverside’s best offensive threat in last year’s 13-10 region loss to Washington-Wilkes, who went on to lose in the second round of the Class AA playoffs. Without him, the Eagles will hope a revitalized defensive line can do the job on the road. Look for Javon and Juwan Thompson to be targets at wide-out.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 FELLOWSHIP CHRISTIAN ACAD. Sept. 11 HAPEVILLE CHARTER SCHOOL Sept. 18 RABUN COUNTY* Sept. 25 at Johnson Oct. 2 STRONG ROCK CHRISTIAN ACAD. Oct. 9 at Washington-Wilkes* Oct. 16 OGLETHORPE COUNTY* Oct. 23 at Greene County* at Union County* Oct. 30 Nov. 6 SOCIAL CIRCLE*
Sean Allison and Kaseem Dukes will both see time at quarterback, but Allison will likely be the Week 1 starter after a strong showing at a recent scrimmage against Stone Mountain High. The Eagles will run a pro set offense, which should provide just enough playaction and misdirection to throw opponents off the scent of their potent run game. Dukes has the edge at running back, where he’ll be joined by Kobe Spicer, Isiah Rorey, Justin Eagen and Brandon Taylor. The wide receiver corps will include two highly-touted brothers who are new to the team from Lovejoy High. Javon and Juwan Thompson are recent transfers that are expected to put up numbers on the edge. “Javon is very athletic, and has great body control,” said Davis. “It’s something you can’t teach. And Juwan has one of the most explosive first steps I’ve seen in a wide receiver in a long time.” Mark Albertz will slot in at center, while James Story, Darius Longino and Marius Crumbley are all possibilities at guard. Elijah Watson and Matthew Milhollin will play at tackle. Fred Shambry is Riverside’s new offensive coordinator. Shambry previously coached at Troup County and Grady High School.
Defense
For The Times
Riverside Military’s offense takes to the line of scrimmage during a 2014 game. The Eagles open the season Aug. 28 against Fellowship Christian Academy in Gainesville.
Replicating the 12th best defense in Class AA will be a challenge, but a mind like Davis is up to the task. Emmanuel McNeil is the leader at defensive end, with Watson on the other end of the quarterback. McNeil received a verbal offer from Louisville over the summer. “We’re going to ask a lot of them,” said Davis. “(McNeil) will get the best from other teams every Friday night, so he’s got to be ready to step up.” Tevarris Hooks will feature at nose guard, while Miguel Meyer, Alfred Jones, Crumley and Spicer can take snaps at linebacker. Javon Thompson will line up at free safety, while Moleik Campbell and Taylor should see reps at cornerback. The name of the game this year has been to finish games. Riverside gave up the lead in eight of 10 games last year, so the hope is to make sure the defense holds tight in fourth-quarter situations.
Special teams Look for Jordan Ainslie to be a one-man machine at kicker and punter this year. He averaged 38 yards per punt in 2014 and nailed a 45-yard field goal in a recent scrimmage against Stone Mountain High. “It could have been from 50, and he still would have gotten it,” said Davis. Michael Schouest, Daniel Herring and Juwan Thompson are all in the mix for punt and kickoff returns.
Outlook The Eagles have tough nonregion matchups to begin the season that should help spot weak areas before region play fully kicks off on Oct. 10 against Washington-Wilkes. Pulling off wins at home will be key — Riverside fell in each home game in 2014. If the Thompson brothers can develop a rhythm with Allison, there’s every reason to think the Eagles will soar in the passing game.
coach’s corner
Coach: Kelly Davis
Coach’s Record: First year as head coach Region: 8-AA Returning starters: 2 on offense, 5 on defense Offensive strategy: Pro set Defensive strategy: 3-3-5 defense Playoff history: Last qualified in 2009
Last year’s leaders Passing *Lyle Lopez
Yds TDs Comp% 141 1 N/A
Receiving
*Michael Schouest
Rushing *Kobe Spicer
Defense
Yds TDs Avg 118 0 N/A
*Emmanuel McNeil *Kobe Spicer *Elijah Watson
Rec Yds TDs 2 28 0
Tkl TFL INT 45 6 0 19 2 0 41 4 0 *returning player
* region game; Home games in CAPS
2015 ROSTER Last year’s RESULTS 3-7, 2-4 Region 8-AA w Fellowship Christian L Hapeville Charter L Rabun County L Johnson L Strong Rock Christian L Washington-Wilkes W Oglethorpe County L Greene County L Union County W Social Circle
20-10 15-14 24-3 16-7 10-7 13-10 21-0 24-7 42-27 34-13
1 2 3 5 6 7 9 10 13 16 17 21 22
Kaseem Duke Moleik Campbell Zach Cromer Jordan Ainslie Isiah Rorey Emmanuel McNeil Javon Thompson Juwan Thompson Sean Allison Lyle Lopez Justin Eagen Daniel Herring Kobe Spicer
Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. So. So. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr.
23 24 25 27 28 30 32 33 34 35 37 38 39
James Story Brandon Taylor Justin Halas Miguel Meyer David Cannon Gregory Stroyne Dmintri Burns OJ Akinlana Stephen Aleandre Devontee Roberts Paul Abdelmasih Jonathan Ellis Kareem Bahghat
Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Fr. Fr. So. Fr. Jr.
42 46 47 50 52 55 56 60 61 62 63 64 65
Austin McKenzie Jordan Hinton Christian Patrick Marius Crumbley Darius Longino Alfred Jones Tavarres Hooks Elijah Watson Nicholas Roberts Kyle Marshall Brennan Fergerson Nicholas Melkinov Jules Rouse
Fr. So. Fr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Jr.
66 67 70 75 79 80 84 85 87 90 98
Mark Albertz Maurice Hanna Keith Long James Hackett Matthew Milhollin Michael Schouest Richard Hanson Jon Brockwell Noah Reisenfeld Carl Smith Tristan Aldridge
Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. So. Fr.
CMYK 4
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 25, 2015
LAKEVIEW LIONS 2014 results: 3-7 overall, 3-5 Region 8-A MVP CONTENDERS
Thad Webb Sr. QB 6-3, 195
A converted wide receiver, Lakeview coach Matthew Gruhn wanted to put his best playmaker behind center to take snaps. Webb will be counted on even more heavily now with former running back Tae Turner playing for Gainesville.
Avonte Gober
Sr. RB/DB 5-11, 165 Best returning back for the Lions, who will give Webb a solid option in the running game.
Ben Eades
Sr. LB 6-1, 175 Most experienced player back for the Lions in the back seven of their defense.
Lions ‘closing the gap’ Lakeview hopes to make run to first postseason berth in 8-A BY BILL MURPHY
bmurphy@gainesvilletimes.com
Connor Sosebee
Sr. OL/DL 6-0, 240 Another anchor at the line of scrimmage for an experienced front for Lakeview Academy.
Matthew Sartor
Sr. OL 6-0, 230 Four-year player for the Lions who will aim to provide adequate protection for Webb in his only year as starting quarterback.
Plenty of positives can be gleaned from what Lakeview Academy did last season, even though it resulted in a 3-7 mark. Lions coach Matthew Gruhn wants to be able to build off two huge 2014 home wins in Region 8-A play going into this season. In Gruhn’s mind the biggest win for Lakeview Academy was when it rallied from three touchdowns down to beat Athens Academy 29-28, making the Lions 3-2 in region play at the moment. Two weeks before that win, the Lions pulled out a thrilling back-and-forth battle against Hebron Christian. “Those we definitely some big wins for us,” said Gruhn, who has led Lakeview Academy since the program started in 2007. For the Lions to be successful, it will have to be without Tae Turner, who had a great season running the ball in 2014 for the Lions. He now plays at Gainesville High.
Offense
team headquarters Jock Horner Field, Gainesville
Directions: From downtown Gainesville, take Green Street and follow US-129 North. Take a right on Lakeview Drive. The school is less than 1 mile ahead on the left. Parking: Lots available throughout campus.
KEY MATCHUP Sept. 11 vs. Towns County Despite a good start last season, Lakeview Academy lost to Towns County in Hiawassee. This season, the Lions will look to jump on the Indians, in hopes of starting the Region 8-A schedule with a win. Lakeview Academy historically has been competitive against Towns County, winning 5 of 8 matchups.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 EAST JACKSON Sept. 4 ST. FRANCIS Sept. 11 TOWNS COUNTY* Sept. 25 at Providence Christian* Oct. 2 at Hebron Christian* Oct. 9 GEORGE WALTON ACADEMY* Oct. 16 at Athens Academy* ATHENS CHRISTIAN* Oct. 23 Oct. 30 at Prince Avenue Christian* Nov. 6 COMMERCE* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 3-7, 3-5 Region 8-A L East Jackson 13-6 L St. Francis 45-14 L Towns County 14-6 W Providence Chr. 38-3 W Hebron Christian 29-27 L George Walton 34-14 W Athens Academy 29-28 L Athens Christian 40-0 L Prince Avenue 49-10 L Commerce 55-28
To compensate for the move, Gruhn has shuffled around some of the parts already in place to hopefully yield successful results. The biggest transition was moving 6-foot-3, 195 pound senior Thad Webb to quarterback from wide receiver. “(Thad) throws the ball well and is a good leader,” said Gruhn. “He moves really well too.” With Turner gone, Avonte Gober takes over the role as premier back in the Lions’ spread offense. Joe Gradige will also get carries for the Lions, which fell from playoff contention with four straight losses at the end of 2014. At wide receiver, Brandon Ragone and Jerrod Abee catching passes from Webb. Lakeview Academy’s first-year quarterback will have experienced protection up front, led by senior center Matthew Sartor and Connor Sosebee at guard. Also on the offensive line, the Lions will be starting William Ball and Tyler Gerhart. For the Lions to make a run to their first playoff berth, they’ll have to put up more points. Last season, Lakeview was held to 10 points or less in four of its losses. In their three wins last year, the Lions averaged 33 points.
Defense Along the defensive line, the Lions will primarily play Sosebee, Gerhart and Avery Jackson. Linebackers include Wake Chamber, JD Roark, Gradidge and Ben Eades. In the secondary, Lakeview has some of its best athletes with Gober and Ragone at cornerback, while Webb and Alec Bornhorst are the safeties.
Special teams Jack Perkins will handle the kicking duties. He’ll split time with Abee as punter. Gober will likely be the main man in kick returns and punt returns.
Outlook Gruhn said that his program is ‘closing the gap’ in a talented football region, primarily comprised of Athens-area private schools. The 32-player roster the Lions field in 2015 is pretty steady with the numbers they played with last season, Gruhn said. Lakeview Academy opens Region 8-A
ERIN O. SMITH I Times file photo
Lakeview Academy quarterback Thad Webb scrambles with the ball during a practice Aug. 18 in Gainesville. The Lions host East Jackson to open the season Aug. 28.
Last year’s leaders Passing
David Abee
coach’s corner
Yds TDs Comp% 1,300 NA NA
Receiving
Rec Yds TDs
*Thad Webb NA 400 NA *returning starters
play against Towns County on Sept. 11. A win could kickstart a strong run for the rest of the season. Lakeview Academy is in its second season of again playing a region schedule. In its first two years of existence, Lakeview played a region schedule in Region 8-A. Then from 2010-2013, the Lions played a nonregion schedule, in hopes of building some depth in the program. Lakeview Academy opens its schedule with nonregion games this season against East Jackson and St. Francis. The region schedule opens the following week.
Matthew Gruhn
Coach’s record: 22-39 at school; 22-39 career Region: 8-A Returning starters: 5 on offense, 5 on defense Offensive strategy: Spread Defensive strategy: 50 front
2015 ROSTER 2 Jerrod Abee 3 Bryce Byrd 4 Hayden Harrington 5 Brandon Ragone 6 Avonte Gober 7 Brannon Browner 8 Evan Gravitt 10 Tyler Grabau 11 Thad Webb
12 Wake Chamber 13 Avery Jackson 14 JD Roark 15 Hunter Lovell 16 Jackson Perkins 17 Joe Gradidge 18 Alec Bornhorst 21 KJ Millwood 22 Will Perry
31 Carter Reeves 32 Peyton Solinsky 33 Jackson Baldwin 51 Eric Hogan 52 Ben Eades 53 Matthew Sartor 54 Will Drury 55 Tyler Gerhart 60 Ian Nichols
61 Tyler Mekoba 62 Bryce Blackwell 65 Palmer Ferguson 66 William Ball 71 Thomas Gay 72 Connor Sosebee 73 Michael England
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
5
BUFORD Wolves 2014 results: 15-0; Class AAAA state champions mvp contenders
Still the leader of the pack Buford remains an elite power BY DAVID THACKHAM
dthackham@gainesvilletimes.com
Shug Frazier Sr.
DT
6-2, 320
With 22 tackles, Frazier is one of Buford’s leading returning defensive specialists. The senior has offers from Alabama, Georgia, Georgia Tech, LSU and several other Division I colleges.
Xavier Gantt
Sr. RB/CB 5-10, 170 A threat on the ground and through the air, Gantt averaged nearly 4 more yards per rush than Joshua Thomas last season.
Martin Mangram
Sr. TB/DB 5-11, 180 Long an understudy to Thomas, Mangram will now be the first choice in Buford’s methodical offense.
Caleb Auer
Sr. TE/DE 6-3, 240 Auer has plenty of bulk and should be one of quarterback Mic Roof’s first targets out of the option.
According to head coach Jess Simpson, Buford isn’t concerned about breaking state records or even continuing a stretch of consecutive state championships. This season, the Wolves have a chance to do both. Buford is currently riding an intimidating 43-game winning streak and is currently on track to beat its own program record of 47 straight wins from 2002-2004. The Wolves have won three straight state titles since 2012 and show no signs of slowing down since graduating 15 players who have gone on to earn Division I scholarships in the offseason. So, if not for records, what do the Wolves play for? “That might be important to somebody, but not in this building,” said Simpson in his office at the high school. “I’m not coaching for a winning streak, I’m just hoping that we can do a great job making an impact. We’ve been blessed with great support and if championships happen, they happen. It’s not because we’ve made it the most important thing.” Buford has made it a habit to reload at all positions, but Simpson will have a challenge to replace the majority of his offensive and defensive leaders. Simpson is hoping that a strong non-region schedule, which includes Class AAAAAA powers like Berkmar and McEachern, will help to mold his reshuffled squad into a playoff contender. Buford has made the playoffs every year since 1999, and has won state championships in seven of the last eight seasons.
Offense Gantt and Mangram will have their chance to shine in Buford’s offense after being largely overshadowed by Joshua Thomas, a current true freshman at Iowa State.
coach’s corner Jess Simpson
Coach’s record: 138-8 at school; 138-18 career Region: 8-AAAA Returning starters: 3 on offense, 3 on defense Offensive strategy: Pro set Defensive strategy: 4-3
key matchup Sept. 4 at McEachern Buford will likely bowl through its region schedule after reloading an already strong core on the offensive and defensive lines, but McEachern will represent a tougher foe. The Indians reached the Class AAAAAA semifinals last year and narrowly allowed Buford a 27-20 win this time last season.
The pair will operate out of the Wolves’ triple-option offense which averaged more than 44 points per game en route to an undefeated 15-0 season. Gantt, a Georgia Tech commit, was able to get plenty of starting reps during Buford’s region schedule and was able to gain 11.8 yards per play while scoring 10 touchdowns. Mangram is a speedier version of Thomas, and possesses both the speed and the size to bully defensive linemen.
Defense Frazier is one of nine seniors on a defense which lost eight starters over the summer. Gantt and Mangram have the talent to break up passes through the air, while defensive end Auer and outside linebacker Matthew Parker have already established themselves against the run game. Frazier currently boasts 11 Division I offers.
Special teams Nick Chmeilowicz will handle all punt situations, while Simpson said there is a battle
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 21 EASTERN CHRISTIAN (MD) Aug. 28 BERKMAR Sept. 4 at McEachern Sept. 18 at White County* Oct. 2 CHESTATEE* Oct. 9 at North Hall* Oct. 16 MONROE AREA* Oct. 23 NORTH OCONEE* Oct. 30 at Madison County* Nov. 6 STEPHENS COUNTY* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 15-0, 7-0 Region 8-AAAA W Trinity Ch. (Fla.) 17-0 W Berkmar 56-0 W McEachern 27-20 W White County 42-10 W Chestatee 54-7 W North Hall 56-0 W Monroe Area 51-12 W North Oconee 58-3 W Madison County 44-0 W Stephens County 56-0 Class AAAA state playoffs W SEWhitfield 63-0 Mary Persons 35-14 W Marist 30-6 W W Cartersville 27-3 W St. Pius X 55-10
ongoing at the kicker position between Jarett Burgos and junior Daniel Garcia.
Outlook Buford should have no trouble bowling through the region schedule before heading into a 16th straight postseason. Upcoming games against Class AAAAAA opponents will highlight any soft spots in Simpson’s scheme, but history suggests betting against a fourth straight state title is an unwise move. The Wolves beat their five playoff opponents in 2014 by a combined score of 147-33.
White County Warriors 2014 results: 6-5, 4-3 Region 8-AAAA MVP Contenders
Looking to remain steady BY BILL MURPHY
bmurphy@gainesvilletimes.com
Adam Johnson Sr.
RB/DB 6-0, 210
A player with meaningful varsity experience, he’ll be counted on for White County, which is seeking its fourth consecutive playoff berth.
Crawford Abernathy
Sr. TE 6-4, 255 Big-bodied tight end who will provide edge blocking in the Warriors’ triple-option attack.
Dane Quinn
Sr. QB/DB 6-2, 190 Quinn will be counted on to lead this offense based on timing with his running backs.
Parker Dorsey
Sr. OL 6-6, 320 Biggest of White County’s linemen, Dorsey will be trusted to give the running backs a lane.
Bill Ballard has quickly made White County into a yearly playoff contender. Playing now in a tough Region 8-AAAA, the Warriors have played in the postseason three consecutive seasons. Each year, the fifth-year White County coach has had a fair share of talent returning, making it one of the top programs in the region. If the Warriors are going to make it four straight trips to the postseason, Ballard will have to do it with a rather untested group of players at the varsity level, in 2015. “We only have seven players who have played meaningful minutes in varsity games,” said Ballard, who has been successful at all the schools he’s coached. One blessing, according to Ballard, is a favorable schedule, if there is such a thing in this region. White County plays three-time defending state champion Buford right off the bat Sept. 18 to open the region schedule. After that, the Warriors will have a week to regroup before playing the final six games in region play, which starts with Madison County on Oct. 2 in Danielsville. White County’s coach knows that dethroning Buford as the elite squad in 8-AAAA probably isn’t realistic. However, he feels like his squad can hopefully grow and be a contender for one of the other three playoff spots by the time the thick of the region schedule opens in October.
Offense Ballard has White County running a triple-option attack, which employs a pair of backs as viable options to carry the ball, along with a quarterback who has to remain nimble and considered able to also keep the ball. The Warriors’ coach considers his offense more closely aligned with what the University of Nebraska and some of the Service Academies utilize, more so than what local fans see out of Georgia Tech. The B Back, who will handle most of the carries for the Warriors, is a group led by Adam Johnson, Nasser Clark and Ty Ulrich, among others. Other backs who will populate the backfield for White County include Ky Crowe, Clancy Loudermilk and Desmond Lowery (the nephew of former White County and University of Kentucky running back Ashely Lowery).
coach’s corner Bill Ballard
Coach’s record: 25-19 at school; 114-41 career Region: 8-AAAA Returning starters: 3 on offense, 3 on defense Offensive strategy: Triple option Defensive strategy: 50 front
key matchup Oct. 2 at Madison County
After opening region play Sept. 18 vs. defending state champ Buford, White County will have two weeks to prepare for its next region game at Madison County. With the top-ranked Wolves undefeated each of the last two seasons, it is tough to imagine the Warriors will snap that streak. White County needs a win in Danielsville to avoid an 0-2 start in Region 8-AAAA.
White County will likely have Dane Quinn leading the offense at quarterback to start the season, according to Ballard, while Kaleb Crane and Sevaughn Clark will also get a shot. The receivers are led by senior Jacob Sledge and 255-pound tight end Crawford Abernathy. White County’s offensive line has some size to push back the defense, led by 320pound left tackle Parker Dorsey, Brice Dollar, Josh Munson and James Young, among others.
Defense Playing in a 50-front look on defense, the line is anchored in the middle by nose tackles Michael Spurgeon and D.J. Fleming. Others on the defensive front include: Riley Moulton, Dollar, Munson, Noah Hoersten and Tyler Dover, with others also getting playing time. The Warriors also employ a number of linebackers who will get a shot they can play. T.J. Ballard, Will Havelin, Lowery, Trevor Morgan and Jake Sulhoff are some of the leading candidates.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 at Pickens Sept. 4 JACKSON COUNTY Sept. 11 at Pace Academy Sept. 18 BUFORD* Oct. 2 at Madison County* STEPHENS COUNTY* Oct. 9 Oct. 16 at North Oconee* Oct. 23 at Chestatee* Oct. 30 MONROE AREA* Nov. 6 NORTH HALL* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 6-5, 4-3 Region 8-AAAA L Pickens 42-34 W Jackson County 34-26 W Pace Academy 31-17 Buford 42-10 L W Madison County 34-27 L Stephens County 30-10 L North Oconee 31-6 W Chestatee 50-28 W Monroe Area 51-22 W North Hall 40-14 Class AAAA state playoffs L Cartersville 54-0
The secondary includes Loudermilk, Crowe, Quinn and Ty Ulrich on the corner. Safeties include Johnson, Crane, Lane Rider and Dillon Knepp.
Special teams Loudermilk and Johnson will handle kick return and punt return duties for White County. Brett Bardenwerper is the kicker, while Bradley Hurst will also kick.
Outlook It will be a tough path for White County to make it back to the postseason but not entirely out of the question. The schedule lines up favorable for the Warriors, should they see steady improvement from young players as the season progresses.
6
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
LUMPKIN County indians 2014 results: 5-6, 4-2 Region 7-AAA
Indians having resurgence
MVP contenders
BY COLIN OCHS
cochs@gainesvilletimes.com
Zach Matthews Jr.
QB/OLB 6-1, 210
Matthews is the driving force of this offense, as he is projected to lead the team in rushing and passing yards. Lumpkin will only go as far as Matthews can take them.
Austin Pierce
Sr. WR/CB 5-10, 175 The track star will look to take some pressure off of Matthews shoulders in the run game. On defense, he is a key member of the secondary.
Justin Cantrell
Sr. OL/DL 5-11, 220 Cantrell is the one of the leaders on the offensive line and his teammates will look to him to set the tone.
Cal Thrailkill
Sr. WR/DB 5-8, 135 Expect Thrailkill to have a career year in his senior season. Lumpkin, will look to pass the ball downfield more in 2015, and Thrailkill will be the one to catch it.
DAHLONEGA — Lumpkin County made some huge strides in Ty Maxwell’s first season as head coach. Under his leadership, the Indians ended an 11-year playoff drought, and with 13 returning starters, Maxwell is looking to build on his success. “We just got to continue doing what we do in the development of our program and obviously as kids mature with our program, we expect them to grow,” Maxwell said. “You always want to build off what’s already happened, so that’s definitely the goal pushing forward at this point.” Lumpkin lost at home to Elbert County in the first round of the playoffs last season after finishing runner-up to West Hall in Region 7-AAA. It was Lumpkin’s first year back in AAA after spending the last two seasons in AAAA.
Offense The offense will be led by junior quarterback Zach Matthews. The returning starter played mostly out of the option in 2014, racking up 1,463 yards on the ground while only throwing for 146. This year, Matthews is looking to become more of a complete quarterback. “(Matthews) has really focused a lot on his throwing mechanics this offseason and we expect him to continue to learn and improve on reading the option,” Maxwell said. “He had a good year rushing the ball for us. He really worked hard to develop more as a quarterback. Last year, he was more of an athlete that played quarterback and know I feel like he’s become a quarterback who’s athletic.” Joining Matthews in the backfield will be the speedy Austin Pierce. The class AAA 100-meter champion will be joined by Cole White. White rushed for 401 yards last year out of the option. Heading the offensive line will be seniors Ben Brown and Zack Samples. The offensive line will be the determining factor in how much success Lumpkin will have on the season. The run-heavy offense has plenty of talent at the skill positions. If the line is able to produce adequate running lanes, Matthews, Pierce and White will gash opposing defenses all season. On the rare occasion the Indians decide
coach’s corner Ty Maxwell
Coach’s record: 5-6 at school; 5-6 career Region: 7-AAA Returning starters: 6 on offense, 6 on defense Offensive strategy: Split-back veer Defensive strategy: 3-5
key matchup Oct. 30 at Dawson County
Lumpkin County’s rival is also the second to last region game, so a lot will be on the line when the two meet in Dawsonville. The Indians snapped a two game losing streak to Dawson with a 42-19 win last year.
to throw the ball, Cal Thrailkill will be the likely target.
Defense Lumpkin’s defense allowed an average of 26.8 points per game last year. This year, the Indians will be running a 3-5 defensive scheme, opposed to the 4-2-5 scheme they ran last year. With Lumpkin’s high powered offense, even a slight improvement on the defensive side should lead to more wins. The defensive line is the strength of the 2015 Lumpkin defense, according to Maxwell. Senior Justin Cantrell and junior Cole Mayo will head the line for the Indians. At the linebacker position, White will be teamed up with junior Noah Denard. Pierce will be the standout in the secondary.
Special teams Handling both the kicking and punting responsibilities will be sophomore Wesley Wells. Pierce, who had 302 kickoff return yards last season, will be joined by
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 21 MODEL Sept. 4 at Union County Sept. 11 at Johnson Sept. 18 OUR LADY OF MERCY Sept. 25 EAST HALL* Oct. 2 at Franklin County* Oct. 9 FANNIN COUNTY* Oct. 16 at Banks County* Oct. 30 at Dawson County* Nov. 6 WEST HALL* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS L L W L W W W L W L L
5-6, 4-2 Region 7-AAA Model 15-8 Union County 28-7 Johnson 14-3 OLM 42-35 East Hall 38-35 Franklin County 27-21 Fannin County 34-20 Banks County 49-46 Dawson County 42-19 West Hall 35-0 Class AAA state playoffs Elbert County 28-18
Matthews to handle the return duties.
Outlook Lumpkin’s five wins last season is more than they had the last two seasons combined, and they will be looking for even more in 2015. Making the playoffs was a big accomplishment for Maxwell in his first year as head coach. Lumpkin should be able to repeat that feat this year with the players they are bringing back combined with the quality, or lack thereof, of most of their regional opponents. “I think with our kids we have, it’s just a matter of being able to put your mind to it,” Maxwell said. “Obviously a lot of things have to happen. We have to take it a game at a time, inch-by-inch, and focus on the now and where our feet are at and getting better every day.”
BANKS County Leopards 2014 results: 5-5, 2-4 Region 7-AAA mvp contenders
Nucleus of talented players BY COLIN OCHS
cochs@gainesvilletimes.com
Trevae Cain Sr.
QB/DB 6-0, 210
Cain is the do-it-all player for Banks County. He will play quarterback, running back, wide receiver and linebacker. He also has the potential to play some at saftey and cornerback. The special thing about Cain is that he plays all these positions exceptionally well.
Zezmon Steeple Sr. WR/DB 5-9, 165 Steeple is a track athlete that has the speed to stretch the field. He was the leading receiver for the Leopards last season.
Tyler Bryant Sr. OL/DL 6-5, 300 Bryant is a big boy and a stalwart in the trenches. He provides plenty of protection for Cain and Goodwin as he is almost impossible to move off the ball.
Logan Hubbard Sr. RB/S 6-0, 185 Hubbard has skills as a runner and receiver, but his major contribution will come on the defensive side of the ball.
HOMER — After going winless in Biff Parson’s first year as head coach, the Leopards showed massive improvement last season. Banks County went 5-5 and just missed out on the state playoffs by virtue of a tiebreaker with Franklin County. They will look to carry that momentum into the new season. Trevae Cain will hear his name called about as much as anyone playing high school football in the state of Georgia, and he appears up for the task. “He’s a special kid,” Parson said. “He’s a great teammate. I think a lot of the guys respect him. He’s very humble. He doesn’t want a lot of accolades. He doesn’t care if he scores 25 touchdowns. It doesn’t matter to him. He wants to win. He’s a competitor.” In his senior season, Cain will be looked upon to take on more of a leadership role, as he attempts to take the Leopards into the postseason for the first time since 2008.
Offense To say Cain will be relied on heavily for Banks County is an understatement. Cain, who just started playing quarterback last year, will line-up at the quarterback, running back and wide receiver positions depending on the week-to-week or even play-by-play matchups. “We, as coaches, are going to rely on him,” Parson said. “I think the players are going to rely on him. “ Parson says Cain’s forte for Banks County is at running back due to his dynamics of speed and power. That is where he is expected to play the most at this point in the season, but that can always change because of Cain’s impressive athleticism and versatility. Splitting time at quarterback with Cain will be junior Griffin Goodwin. Goodwin threw for 1,200 yards last season. The split will be determined week-by-week, according to Parson. It will depend on the personnel the Leopards face defensively. Will it be better to have Cain back there as a dualthreat quarterback, or is it better to turn around and hand him the ball and let Griffin throw it down the field? That is the question the coaches will be asking themselves on a weekly basis. Banks County will have five seniors on the offensive line.
coach’s corner Biff Parson
Coach’s record: 5-15 at school; 5-15 career Region: 7-AAA Returning starters: 9 on offense, 4 on defense Offensive strategy: West Coast/pro-style Defensive strategy: 3-4
key matchup Sept. 25 at Franklin County The Leopards lost out on a playoff spot to Franklin County via a tiebreaker last season. Franklin reached the playoffs thanks to a 22-21 win at Banks County last September. The fact that this is the first region game will make avenging last season’s loss that much sweeter.
Three-year starter Logan Galloway is the main hub that will lead a very experienced group up front. Zezmon Steeple is the standout at the receiver position. He is their vertical threat and has the speed to get downfield in a hurry. Junior Judd Roberts is also a receiver to look out for in 2015.
Defense The defense is a big question mark for Banks as they only return four starters. They have three-year starter Logan Hubbard, three-year starter Cain, two-year starter Zach Lehoskey and a bunch of unknowns. The least experienced unit is the secondary. Hubbard will start at one of the safety spots, and they are looking at a sophomore to start alongside him. One of their starting corners will also be a sophomore, and it is still unknown who will start at the second corner spot. Cain will be starting at outside linebacker. The other starter might not play this year because of a back problem, so they are looking at a freshman to start in his place. On the inside, the Leopards have Lehoskey paired with a sophomore who’s playing his first year at the varsity level.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 COMMERCE Sept. 4 JEFFERSON Sept. 11 at East Jackson Sept. 18 at North Cobb Christian Sept. 25 at Franklin County* Oct. 2 FANNIN COUNTY* Oct. 16 LUMPKIN COUNTY* Oct. 23 at Dawson County* Oct. 30 at West Hall* Nov. 6 at East Hall* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS L W W W L L W W L L
5-5, 2-4 Region 7-AAA Commerce 28-21 Johnson 2 8-24 East Jackson 43-0 N. Cobb Christian 24-8 Franklin County 22-21 Fannin County 30-23 Lumpkin County 49-46 Dawson County 27-21 West Hall 23-7 East Hall 35-21
On the defensive line, Banks County is replacing everybody. They are currently looking at a rotation of about six guys to fill those spots.
Special Teams Junior Ramiro Cuadra will be handling kickoffs and field goals, while fellow junior Tyler Autry will be the team’s punter. Banks is still trying out return specialist as they are having to replace Malcolm Mitchell.
Outlook Banks County has their eyes set on a playoff berth. Region 7-AAA is wide-open this year. It is about as equal a region there is in AAA, according to Parson. Their depth is razor thin, however, so it will be important for them to avoid the injury bug. If they can do that, and with the weapons they have on offense, the Leopards should be able to compete for that elusive playoff spot.
2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW | The Times | Gainesville, Ga.
Sunday, Sunday, August August 23,23, 2015 2015
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The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Jefferson dragons 2014 results: 12-1, 6-0 Region 8-AAA
Talent to remain a force
mvp contenders
BY CHARLES PHELPS
cphelps@clickthepaper.com
Colby Wood So., RB/CB 5-9, 175
Wood will be relied upon heavily to drive the offense and expect him to build upon what he started his freshman season.
Zack Boobas
Jr., DB/P/FB 5-8, 175 Boobas wears a lot of different hats for the Dragons and will be called upon to make big plays at each position.
Lane Sorrow
Jr., QB/CB 5-10, 150 Sorrow may not start come opening night, but his threat to run gives the Dragons’ offense another dimension and he will have an opportunity to display that.
The last time the Jefferson Dragons were on the field, it was the quarterfinals of the Class AAA state playoffs. The night ended in heartbreak for the 12-0 Dragons as they lost in overtime, 21-14, to Blessed Trinity. The loss brought the departure of many seniors, like, wide receivers Dalton Hill and T.J. Skelton; running back Sammy Williams; defenders Tradd Porter and Trent Sorrells. The loss also was the end of the Shirreffs’ Era at Jefferson High School as Evan Shirreffs graduated. Evan followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Bryant, who led the Dragons to the 2012 Class AA state championship. “I think we’re getting better each day,” head coach Ben Hall said after the team’s scrimmage game against West Hall. “It’s our goal, just like every other year, we want to continue to grow as a team and get better from game to game, practice to practice. “I think this team is doing that. We’re a long way from being a seasoned team. We have so many young faces, so we will continue to work the kids and put them in pressure situations and watch them grow.” The Dragons will play a lot of young players on both offense (skill positions) and defense (secondary). Both lines remain well intact from a season ago. “It’s one thing to be a JV (junior varsity) player, but when it comes time to play a varsity football game on Friday night, a lot of those kids kind of shy away from that,” Hall said. “Guys like Justin Cole (sophomore), Terrell Wall (sophomore), the secondary players, the receivers, the running backs for us, those kinds of kids, we are going to rely on them this year, where we necessarily haven’t had to rely on sophomores skill kids over the last couple of years.
Offense Dontae Wilson
Jr., OT/DT 6-0, 295 Wilson will look to create blocks to spring the offense forward and try to create as much havoc as he can on defense
With Shirreffs’ departure, the question all summer has been, “Who will be his successor?” The answer has several choices: Lane Sorrow, a versatile player who can make plays with his legs as well as his arm; Bryce Moore, a pocket passer who can stretch the field with his arm; or why not play them both? “They’re both competing, each made good plays, each made mistakes,” Hall said
coach’s corner Coach: Ben Hall
Coach’s record: 22-4 at school, 22-4 career Region: 8-AAA Offensive strategy: Balanced/I-Formation Defensive strategy: 4-3 Playoff history: Qualified 14 of last 15 seasons
key matchup Sept. 11 at Commerce Commerce is fourth on the schedule and the final non-region opponent before six straight region games to finish the season and the Dragons will have established more of an identity headed into the in-county rivalry game.
about Moore and Sorrow’s performance in the scrimmage game. “We’re going to evaluate. Right now, we’re going to prepare just like we did for the scrimmage, we’re preparing to play two (quarterbacks).” Sorrow went 5-for-9 for 102 yards and one touchdown in 2014. Moore went 2-for-2 for 30 yards. Sophomore Colby Wood steps in as lead running back. Williams occupied the role last season. Wood rushed for 856 yards on 107 carries and 16 touchdowns. At wide receiver, Chaz Evans leads a group of new corps, which includes Kyle Clark, Blake Ehl and Clay Pender. Caleb Cooley is the returning veteran of the group. Cooley caught only three passes for 31 yards in 2014. Joseph Randolph will give the Dragons another weapon through the air from the tight end position. The offensive line returns four starters: Jackson Bowen, Caleb Chandler, Alex Corbett and Dontae Wilson.
Defense For the Dragons to be successful in 2015, Hall says two players who the team will rely on for strong plays from are sophomore out-
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 21 at Rabun County Aug. 28 WINDER-BARROW Sept. 4 NORTH HALL Sept. 11 at Commerce Sept. 25 JACKSON COUNTY* Oct. 2 at Elbert County* Oct. 9 MORGAN COUNTY* Oct. 16 at East Jackson* Oct. 30 at Oconee County* Nov. 6 HART COUNTY* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 12-1, 6-0 Region 8-AAA W Rabun County 50-14 W Winder-Barrow 41-7 W North Hall 48-8 W Commerce 28-3 W Jackson County 34-7 W Elbert County 52-6 W Morgan County 51-16 W East Jackson 63-0 W Oconee County 28-16 W Hart County 21-14 Class AAA state playoffs W Franklin County 38-7 W Dodge County 27-7 L Blessed Trinity 28-21
side linebacker Josh Cole and junior linebacker/safety Zack Boobas. “We feel good about the young talent we have in the second and third level on defense,” Hall said. “Just like (the) offensive guys, (we are) just getting them reps. The two will be joined by a solid defensive front which includes Randolph, Wilson and Deshon Lester. Jonathan Paolozzi gets the nod at middle linebacker and Darrian Hill will be in the secondary to help the younger players. The defense returns six starters.
Special teams Boobas and Cole will handle the punting duties, while Lucas Carreno handles the kicking responsibilities. Boobas, Hill and Wood will handle the kick return duties.
JACKSON County Panthers 2014 results: 2-8, 1-5 Region 8-AAA mvp contenders
Receiving end of success BY CHARLES PHELPS
cphelps@clickthepaper.com
Chase Wester Sr. WR/DB 5-11, 180
Wester is the utility for the Panthers, and that versatility can help both the offense and defense.
Griffin McElvery
Sr., OLB 5-10, 190 McElvery is one of the leaders of the Panthers’ defense.
Antonio Strickland Sr., WR/DB 6-1, 180 Strickland’s capabilities to take the top off of opposing defenses can flip a game in the Panthers’ favor.
Malik Tuck Sr., RB 5-9, 210 Tuck is a bruising running back who can help the offense sustain drives.
After making the playoffs in consecutive years for the first time since 1987 (2012 and 2013 seasons), the Jackson County Panthers were trending in the right direction. Then came 2014, and, everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The team lost wide receiver Antonio Strickland for the season due to a leg injury in week two. They struggled on both sides of the football. That equated to a 2-8 record (1-5 Region 8-AAA) to finish the season. That’s only half the story. In January, then-head coach Benji Harrison resigned after three seasons. After Harrison’s departure, the search was on to find the replacement, and in March, in stepped Brandon Worley. Worley came over to Jackson County from Dacula High School, where he was the offensive coordinator. This is his first headcoaching job. With his arrival, Worley not only brought a new-look offense and base for success with him, but he’s brought a new attitude.
Offense A new offense is heading from the spread, which is a primarily passing offense, to a more “physical-style offense” based out of the I-formation, Worley said. But, this doesn’t mean they are going runheavy. They will multiple looks based out of the I-formation, which will make them “balanced.” “They (the offense) definitely like doing more than just kick back and zone,” Worley said. “I think they’ve enjoyed going at people instead of absorbing the defense.” Personnel will “dictate” what the offense “can and can’t do,” he added. “I could see us offensively having 10 of 11 (starters) being seniors,” he said. “The whole offensive line, their leadership and their attitude has been amazing. “Then, of course, we have a couple of skills that are returning from last year that can definitely make an impact.” The quarterback position isn’t immune from the uncertainty as the opening-night starter against Madison County on Aug. 28 is still to be determined. Jase Latty and Caleb Matthews have contended for the position all summer. Other key pieces to helping the offense click includes Chase Wester, who
coach’s corner Coach: Brandon Worley
Coach’s record: First year as a head coach Region: 8-AAA Offensive strategy: Balanced/I-Formation Defensive strategy: 5-3 Playoff history: Missed the playoffs last season after making back-to-back appearances in 2012 and 2013
key matchup Sept. 25 at Jefferson It will be the region opener for both teams and the Panthers will look to extract revenge after last year’s 34-7 lopsided victory against their U.S. Highway 129 rival.
will play an assortment of positions, like, wide receiver, running back and possibly some quarterback. Wester played quarterback in the Panthers’ spring game. “He’s an athlete,” Worley said about Wester. “He’s all over the place. He’s that guy and he’s able to do all of those things.” Strickland returns from injury and is the Panthers’ big-play threat. “His big-play ability is nice to have,” Worley said. “Great hands; can definitely make things happen.” Junior Zane Corley joins Strickland in the wide receiver pool. Malik Tuck returns at running back, but there will be a plethora of guys taking touches to keep defenses off balance.
Defense Eight of 11 starters from 2014 will be back on the field for Jackson County in 2015. “That’s huge,” Worley said about the returning starters. “I know it’s something different that we do, but the experience on the field, is going to be key.” Micah Vincent and Griffin McElvery will anchor the Panthers’ defense. They are two
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 at Madison County Sept. 4 at White County Sept. 11 RABUN COUNTY Sept. 18 EAST HALL Sept. 25 at Jefferson* Oct. 2 OCONEE COUNTY* Oct. 9 at Elbert County* Oct. 16 HART COUNTY* Oct. 23 EAST JACKSON* Nov. 6 at Morgan County* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 2-8, 1-5 Region 8-AAA L Madison County 27-21 L White County 34-26 L Rabun County 34-21 W East Hall 31-6 L Jefferson 34-7 L Oconee County 42-21 L Elbert County 42-13 L Hart County 43-7 W East Jackson 35-15 L Morgan County 45-42
of several Panthers playing both offense and defense. Austin Lewis is another who’s transitioning from strictly offense to becoming a main player for the defense. “Those three right there have really stood out to me in the fact that, Austin was strictly offense last year. Now, he’s being asked to play some defense and doing an amazing job,” Worley said. “Then, Griffin and Micah were both defensive players who are now playing some offensive positions as well…I think they love it, because then, you get to see both sides of the game, you’re not just restricted to one. Strickland will play defensive back and Wester will be back in the secondary to help him.
Special teams Easton Tuggle is back to kick for the Panthers this season. Wester will handle both punting duties and kick return along with Strickland.
2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW | The Times | Gainesville, Ga.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
9
DAWSON COUNTY Tigers 2014 results: 2-8 overall, 1-5 Region 7-AAA mvp contenders
Program under construction by Jared putnam
jputnam@gainesvilletimes.com
Coey Watson So. QB 5-10, 170
Watson did an admirable job as starting quarterback late last season after injuries forced him into the role as a freshman. That experience should prove valuable as he enters his first full season under center at the varsity level.
Logan Hurst
Sr. RB/DB, 6-1, 195 A lot of players should get their hands on the ball in the Tigers’ spread offense, and Hurst’s size could make him one of the team’s most reliable options.
Luke Martin
Jr. RB/LB, 6-3, 215 Martin earned first team all-region 7-AAA honors last year after posting a team-leading 170 tackles and two forced fumbles.
Andrew Goley
Sr. RB/FS, 6-2, 175 Goley brings a senior presence to the Tigers secondary, a unit that new coach Sid Maxwell traditionally puts heavy emphasis on in his defenses.
Dawson County High has been a construction zone under new coach Sid Maxwell, both literally and figuratively. Maxwell, who officially took over the football program in April following stints at Lambert High and Sequoyah High, has been championing an effort to improve the Tigers’ field and facilities in addition to their product on the field. Dawson County installed an artificial playing surface on its field that puts off less heat than certain other types of turf and remodeled the field house. “We’ve done a lot with the community and the school system to upgrade our facilities,” Maxwell said. “Just some stuff to try to change the culture.” On the field, Maxwell brings a strong resume to a Dawson County program that finished 2-8 in 2014 and last made the state playoffs in 2012. He spent the bulk of his career at Seqouyah in Cherokee County, before leaving to start the Lambert football program in Forsyth County in 2009. He posted a 27-16 record in four varsity seasons at Lambert, including a 6-5 mark in 2013, and led the Longhorns to the playoffs three times.
Offense Dawson County suffered a rash of injuries at quarterback last season, and the starting job fell to freshman Coey Watson midway through the season. He finished with 1,091 passing yards and 13 touchdowns. Maxwell said Watson has the leadership qualities it takes to play the position and will remain the quarterback in the Tigers’ spread formation. “He has the making to be the guy you want to be your general on the field,” Maxwell said. Seniors Logan Hurst and Hunter Mitchell and junior Payton Myers are all expected to contribute at running back. The coach said Austin Young, Nick Murphy, Tristan Cook and Jeremiah Crumley could all see action at wide receiver. Senior Brandon Munkus will get time at tight end and as a flex player. “I’m one of these coaches that sort of adapts,” Maxwell said. “Nowadays everything is fast and ... you’ve got to spread it
coach’s corner Coach: Sid Maxwell
Coach’s Record: 0-0 at school, 133-75 career Region: 7-AAA Offensive strategy: Spread Defensive strategy: Multiple Playoff history: Last qualified in 2012
key matchup Oct. 2 at East Hall Dawson County could have a tough return to Region 7-AAA play when the team faces West Hall on Sept. 25. A week later the Tigers might get a friendlier matchup — and a better chance for a region win — against an East Hall squad that must replace former quarterback Devin Watson.
around a little bit. A.J. Manor, the Tigers’ 6-foot-4, 255-pound center, will help anchor an offensive line rotation that could include seven players. Ty Womack and Brise Henson will occupy the guard spots, and Cam Hudson and Beau Cooper will line up outside at the tackle positions.
Defense Maxwell inherits a Dawson County squad that was strongest on the defensive side of the ball last year, allowing the second-fewest points in the region. Like the offensive line, the Tigers’ defensive line is expected to feature several players, including Taylor Swofford, Hunter Lebaran and Carson Weatherford. Dawson County brings back its two leading tacklers from last season in the former of junior linebacker Luke Martin (170 tackles last year) and senior linebacker Conor Woodbury (144). Junior defensive backs Jeremy Whalen and Dylan Nix also return, along with senior Hunter Mitchell. Nix and Mitchell earned second team all-region 7-AAA honors last season, while Whalen was named
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 FORSYTH CENTRAL Sept. 4 at Gilmer Sept. 11 HERITAGE (RINGGOLD) Sept. 25 *at West Hall Oct. 2 *at East Hall Oct 9 *FRANKLIN COUNTY Oct. 16 *at Fannin County Oct. 23 *BANKS COUNTY Oct. 30 *LUMPKIN COUNTY Nov. 6 *at Johnson * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 2-8 overall, 1-5 Region 7-AAA L L L L L W L L L W
Forsyth Central Gilmer Heritage West Hall East Hall Franklin County Fannin County Banks County Lumpkin County Johnson
27-7 23-0 10-6 26-3 36-29 25-7 35-28 27-21 42-19 28-0
honorable mention. Andrew Goley and a handful of other players will also be part of the mix in the secondary.
Special Teams Senior Alan Sanchez will handle kicking duties. Tucker Maxwell, the coach’s son and a UGA commit in baseball, will serve as the punter. A committee of players are still competing for return specialist positions.
Outlook The Tigers lost four games by seven points or fewer last season and were more competitive than their record indicates. Couple that with the arrival of Coach Maxwell, whose teams are traditionally very fundamentally sound, and it should not be a surprise if Dawson County pushes for a playoff spot in the seven-team Region 7-AAA.
HABERSHAM CENTRAL RAIDERS 2014 results: 1-9, 1-8 Region 7-AAAAAA mvp contenders
Raiders usher in new era BY COLIN OCHS
cochs@gainesvilletimes.com
Michael Babers Jr. RB 6-0, 205
Babers is the driving force of the Habersham Central’s offense. The 1,000 yard rusher will be looked upon to carry the load for the Raiders this year. With the implementation of the new spread offense, expect even greater numbers to come from Babers this season.
Mason Kinsey
Sr. WR/DB 6-0, 180 Habersham Central’s leading receiver returns for the 2015 season. Kinsey will need to up his game to another level as the Raiders work in a new starting quarterback.
Jim Barnett
So. DB/WR 6-0, 150 Barnett has been described as “explosive” by his coaches. While only a sophomore, Barnett will be relied upon to stretch the field in the passing game.
Clay Nelson
Sr. OL/DT 6-2, 265 A college prospect in his own right, Nelson will be responsible for providing running lanes for Babers.
MOUNT AIRY — Habersham Central hopes new head coach Benji Harrison will breathe fresh life into a program that hasn’t seen many wins over the past few seasons. One positive for Habersham is that they earned their first region win in three years defeating North Forsyth in late October. Harrison will look to build on that achievement in order to get Habersham back to where it once was. “I think (Habersham) has had a good tradition over the years,” Harrison said. “It’s been a little tough the last few years, but I still think there’s great possibility here. It’s a great program that can get back to where they want to be.” The Raiders went 1-19 under previous head coach Michael Pollock. They are an overall 2-28 over the last three years and haven’t made the playoffs since 2011. Harrison is hoping that a switch from a prostyle offense to a spread attack will be the change Habersham needs to break out of their recent funk. Harrison left Jackson County after three seasons, and a 12-20 record, to coach at Habersham. It will take a lot of hard work, but Harrison is confident that he has a winning team on his hands at Habersham Central.
Offense Harrison will bring the spread offense he ran at Jackson with him to Habersham. It will be a fast tempo offense, and Harrison hopes this will keep defenses from running complicated schemes against them. The offensive line is one of the strong suits of the team. Seniors Carson Ivester and Clay Nelson will head the unit as they lead the way for junior running back Michael Babers. Babers is coming off a sophomore campaign in which he ran for 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns. He figures to be the key component on the Raiders offense this season. “I think (Babers) is as good a back as anyone around,” Harrison said. “He’s a tough kid, runs very hard, good speed. Very smart, intelligent player.” At receiver, last season’s leader in yards and touchdowns, Mason Kinsey, will be returning. Sophomore Jim Barnett will take over the No. 2 receiver role from the
coach’s corner Benji Harrison
Coach’s record: first year at school; 12-20 career Region: 6-AAAAAA Returning starters: 6 on offense, 7 on defense Offensive strategy: Spread Defensive strategy: 4-3
key matchup Sept. 4 vs. Northview Hopes are high at Habersham Central this year, and the first region game will provide a good measure as to if these hopes are legitimate or farfetched. The Raiders lost to Northview 41-0 last season. A competitive game will have this team believing that this year will be different.
graduated John David Herrin. Barnett is an explosive talent that Harrison is looking forward to seeing on the field. Quarterback will be the question mark for Habersham, as junior Cole Wilbanks takes over for Bennet Black. Black, who graduated in May, took most of the snaps for the Raiders last season. Harrison expects Habersham to operate more of a run offense as Wilbanks gets adjusted to his new role as the starter.
Defense Harrison wants his defense to match-up with what they do on offense. To accomplish this, the defense will run out of a 4-3 formation that pressures the quarterback. The Raiders will employ a lot of zone coverages behind the pressures they bring up front. Senior Jeremiah Nicely will anchor the defensive line for Habersham. At linebacker, junior Jake Jones and senior Cody Patterson will have to play very well for the Raiders in order for the defense to have success.
2015 schedule Date Opponent Aug. 28 RABUN COUNTY Sept. 4 NORTHVIEW* Sept. 11 at South Forsyth* Sept. 18 at West Forsyth* Sept. 25 ALPHARETTA* Oct. 9 LAMBERT* Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 6
at Cetenniel* JOHNS CREEK* at North Forsyth* at Chattahoochee* * region game; Home games in CAPS
Last year’s RESULTS 1-9, 1-8 Region 6-AAAAAA L Rabun County 23-14 L Northview 41-0 L South Forsyth 49-7 West Forsyth 56-35 L L Alpharetta 52-3 L Lambert 51-6 L Centennial 42-39 L Johns Creek 42-14 North Forsyth 32-7 W L Chattahoochee 35-28
Safety Trey Hurt will be responsible for getting the secondary in the right formations, and senior Jeremy Jones is expected to play well for Habersham at the cornerback position.
Special Teams Senior Alex Alvarado will be handling the kicking duties. Alvarado is also in line to be the punter, although Patterson has been giving it a try in practice, and the decision of who to go with has not yet been made. Barnett will be the primary return specialist with Hurt and Kinsey also returning kicks on occasion.
Outlook The bar has been set high for Habersham. The Raiders are entering the season with a new identity and new optimism thanks to Harrison. Now it’s time for them to produce some results.
10
The Times | Gainesville, Ga. | 2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sunday, August 23, 2015
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