AJC > Sports > Highschools > Blog > Archives > 2006 > November > 08 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USTake Ten: Best players since ‘66
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s a go at ranking the best 10 Georgia high school football players of the past 40 years. I made the cutoff 1966 because that’s the first year the Georgia High School Association opened its membership to the governing body of black schools, the Georgia Interscholastic Association. Some consider that the start of the modern era of Georgia high school football. But more practically, I didn’t want to list too many players that most readers had never seen play. How many people saw Fran Tarkenton at Athens High? Or Larry Morris at Decatur? Or Clint Castleberry of old Boys’ High of Atlanta, the running back who won three Georgia state titles (1939-40-41), then finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting in 1942 as a Georgia Tech freshman? From 1966 forward, here’s my Top 10.
10. Reggie Brown, Carrollton (senior season 1998): Brown was a Parade and a USA Today All-America player in 1998, when he caught 62 passes for 1,046 yards and 10 touchdowns despite missing two regular-season games to injury. The AJC all-class player of the year and two-time all-state player, Brown also was the No. 1 wide receiver recruit in the country when he signed with Georgia in 1999. Carrollton was 50-6 during Brown’s four seasons with three semifinal appearances, two state title game appearances and the 1998 Class AA Championship. Carrollton also won two track and field state titles with Brown, and he set the state record in the long jump as a sophomore. Brown now plays for the Philadelphia Eagles.
9. Deon Grant, Josey (1996): Grant was just a junior in 1995, when he led Josey to its first state title. At 6-foot-4, 195 pounds, Grant was a head-hunting, ball-hawking safety, the AJC’s Class AAA defensive player of the year, but he also was a weapon at wide receiver. As a senior, he had 99 tackles, six interceptions and five forced fumbles. He caught 28 passes, eight for touchdowns. He was a collegiate All-American at Tennessee and has played six seasons in the NFL.
8. Larry Kinnebrew, East Rome (1977): A Parade All-American and the AJC’s lineman of the year in 1977, Kinnebrew predated Herschel Walker as a freak of nature, a 240-pound fullback fast enough to win a state title in the 100-yard dash. But Kennebrew was more noted as a defensive player, the monster in the middle for the 1977 East Rome team known as “Big Brew’s Wrecking Crew.” East Rome allowed only one regular-season touchdown and became the first 15-0 team in state history. Signed by Georgia, Kennebrew wound up playing college ball at Tennessee State before a seven-year NFL career.
7. Charles Grant, Miller County (1997): A 240-pound load in the backfield, Grant was a Parade Magazine in 1997, when he tied Herschel Walker’s record for touchdowns in a season with 45. He had 3,472 all-purpose yards that season for the Class A Pirates. Grant, now with the New Orleans Saints, is the only player ever to be selected his classification’s offensive player of the year (1997) and defensive player of the year (1996) by the Journal-Constitution. He was a linebacker primarily in high school, a defensive end in college and the NFL.
6. Eric Zeier, Marietta (1990): The Marietta quarterback was the AJC’s all-class player of the year and a USA Today All-American in 1990, when he led Marietta to a 10-0 regular-season finish. Zeier threw for 2,477 yards, at the time the fifth-most ever in the highest classification, and Marietta was 22-2 in Zeier’s two seasons after moving to Georgia from Germany. Zeier later became a freshman starter at Georgia and the school’s all-time leading passer before spending five seasons in the NFL.
5. Garrison Hearst, Lincoln County (1989): Hearst was the AJC’s all-class player of the year in 1989, when he led Lincoln County to the Class A title and rushed for 2,057 yards. Hearst also was the all-state punter in Class A, not to mention a Parade All-America selection. Lincoln County won three state titles with Hearst in school. Hearst was the SEC player of the year at Georgia in 1992 and played 12 seasons in the NFL.
4. Andy Johnson, Athens (1969): It’s hard to imagine that any player has meant more to a state champion in the largest classification than Johnson. He rushed for 1,178 yards and 15 touchdowns and passed for 1,251 yards and 15 touchdowns, all in 13 games. He returned three kicks for TDs. He intercepted three passes. He was the team’s punter. In the state title game, Athens played defending champion Valdosta, a team that had allowed seven points all season, that coming after Valdosta had fumbled on its 11-yard line. Johnson scored twice himself against the vaunted Wildcats’ defense. Then, with a minute left, he drove Athens 75 yards for a touchdown and tying 2-point conversion for the tie, 26-26. Johnson played at Georgia, then seven seasons in the NFL with the Patriots.
3. Stan Rome, Valdosta (1973): Valdosta’s passing game in 1971 was ahead of its time, and so was Rome, a 6-4 wide receiver who caught 72 passes for 20 touchdowns and a national record 1,573 yards that year, all as a sophomore in just 13 games. He was a rare three-time all-state player in the highest classification and the first Georgia wide receiver to be named a Parade All-American. Valdosta was 30-3 with Rome on the varsity, but that ‘71 Valdosta team was unforgettable, considered by many the best in Georgia history after it defeated Avondale 62-12 in the state title game. Rome played in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs, but many believe his decision to play basketball at Clemson shortened what could’ve been a greater football career.
2. Takeo Spikes, Washington County (1994): As a 6-3, 225-pound tight end, Spikes caught 34 passes for 706 yards and 17 touchdowns in 1994, when he led Washington County — perhaps the best team man for man in Georgia history — to a 15-0 season. But he was even more devastating on defense, where he’d make a living in the NFL after an All-America career at Auburn. In high school, Spikes was the AJC’s all-class player of the year and a USA Today All-American in 1994. No team came within 16 points of beating WaCo that year.
1. Herschel Walker, Johnson County (1979): Not going out on a limb on this one. Walker was Parade magazine’s national high school player of the year in 1979, when he rushed for 3,167 yards and 45 touchdowns, both state records. Johnson County finished 14-1 and won its only state title, in Class A. Walker rushed for 318 yards in the state title game, a 35-17 victory over Feldwood. Also won the state titles in the 100-yard dash and shot put.
Go on. Take Ten. Who’s the best Georgia prep football player since ‘66? Who’d we miss?
Permalink | Comments (84) | Post your comment | Categories: Take Ten
Comments
By Hurricane
November 8, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this
HELLO IS ANYONE THERE
RONNIE BROWN THE #2 OVERALL PICK IN THE NFL DRAFT
CARTERSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
By Lenalee
November 8, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this
Ray Guy DEFINITELY belongs on this list. Many people remember him only for his stellar 14-year career punting for the Oakland Raiders, but he was also a standout high school quarterback who guided Thomson High School to state championships in 1967 and 1968.
By FanMan
November 8, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this
Two that come straight to mind that I believe should be on this list are George Rogers of Duluth, who went on to win the Heisman. The other is Darius Walker of Buford, who broke Herschel Walker’s season rushing TD record and won 3 state championships…now starring at ND.
By Runt Moon
November 8, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this
I once held the State All-Classification rushing record. It was made all the more remarkable by the fact that I SHARED the backfield Raymond Harris in the wishbone offense, not as the tailback in an I-formation.
By Todd Holcomb
November 8, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this
I didn’t think of Ronnie Brown. Sounds dumb, but I was working off a list of players who were either high school All-Americans or who were AJC players of the year in high school. Surprisingly, Brown was not the offensive player of the year in Class AA that season. It was Dondrial Pinkins of Mitchell-Baker. It seems Willie Reid and Monte Williams were more ‘famous’ as high school backs. I’m not conceding Ronnie Brown should be in the Top 10, but he certainly deserves some votes. So would a couple of other Cartersville grads, Robert Lavette and Keith Henderson, who were a little more decorated than Brown coming out of high school, except for the state title thing.
I did consider Ray Guy. I saw somewhere that he averaged 47 yards a punt in high school. Not many return men risked trying to catch one of his high boomers, so most of them rolled to a stop. The reason I decided against Guy was that those Thomson teams won mainly with defense. He was an excellent quarterback, but not a superstar at the position like a Charlie Dudish or Andy Johnson of that era.
George Rogers was the back of the year twice in his classification in the 1970s, although I’m not sure that William Andrews and James Brooks weren’t better high school players than Rogers from the 1970s, if only because they were marquee players on championship teams from the highest classification. But you couldn’t go wrong with Rogers. Darius Walker had better numbers than No. 5 Garrison Hearst, but I gave Hearst the edge for his college and pro career. He’s definitely another who wouldn’t look out of place in the Top 10.
By Marvin Rambeau
November 8, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this
Hey did anyone forget about Robert Toomer that played for Worth County High School. He did become the all-time leading rusher in GA history in 1991.
Also how could you leave off Charlie Ward, Jr. who played for then Central of Thomasville. By the way he did win the Heisman and a national title at Florida State.
By kelscruggs
November 8, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this
Chip Kell, Avondale 1967 All-SEC & All American at Tennessee College Football Hall of Fame
By 2AAAAA
November 8, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
Terrance Mathis Redan High School
Kevin Butler Redan High School
Cosey Coleman Southwest Dekalb
Jamal Lewis Douglass High School
Champ Bailey
Should all before Reggie Brown
By thomas
November 8, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this
How about Isaac Jackson running back for Lanier High in 1969—70
By Derrick Williams
November 8, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this
Kenny Spears out of Woodward Academy was a clone of Hershel Walker. He should be considered for the TOP 10. With honorable mention to Andre Hastings and Hasan Graham of SWD.
By Rob Jordan
November 8, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this
How could you leave out the leading rusher in Georgia history, Monte’ Williams of Commerce. Monte’ led he Commerce Tigers to a state title in 2000 while amassing almost 9000 in his career, at the time good enough for 4th place IN THE NATION…EVER!!! It is also worth mentionong that the 2000 Commerce team was the last to defeat Buford before they ran off a state record 46 consecutive wins.With the exception of Stan Rome, I have personally seen every player in your top ten and Monte’ is definately in there somewhere. You also left off George Rogers, the Heisman winner from Duluth.
By beef
November 8, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this
Your right about Ronnie Brown on one point he was NOT offensive player of the year… he was 1999 PLAYER OF THE YEAR!!!! Brown was also one of the best safeties in the state!! D1’s wanted him in both categories!! IMO Brown is in the top 5 Ga high school football players to reach his goal! 2nd pick in the NFL draft is not chopped liver.. HOW MANY GA FOOTBALL PLAYERS CAN CLAIM THAT! NONE on your list! It’s all who the AJC decides to hype! Brown was not covered up here in Cartersville until he tore the Dome up!!
By THE POOMAN
November 8, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this
Best RB I have ever seen is not on the list…..MONTE WILLIAMS of COMMERCE!
Another on that list should be Darius Walker, but I will give that time. Do this same list in about 5 years, I bet Darius is in the TOP 5!!
By THE POOMAN
November 8, 2006 06:06 PM | Link to this
Best RB I have ever seen is not on the list…..MONTE WILLIAMS of COMMERCE!
Another on that list should be Darius Walker, but I will give that time. Do this same list in about 5 years, I bet Darius is in the TOP 5!! When the 2006 season started Darius only needed 1400 yards to be the ALL TIME LEADING RUSHER at Notre Dame and he’s only a junior. Yes I said ALL TIME LEADING RUSHER FOR THE IRISH!!! One of the most historic college football programs EVER, behind Michigan!
By Norcross '97
November 8, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this
Where’s the love for the lineman? There have been some great lineman that have had some stellar college and NFL carreers. Just like usual, lineman do all the work and get none of the credit. Just once I’d like to see a poll of the greatest lineman from GA.
By jimmy
November 8, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this
ronnie brown was in fact player of the year in AA
By hurricane
November 8, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this
Ronnie Brown was the class AA player of the year in 1999 when CARTERSVILLE won the class AA STATE TITLE
By FanMan
November 8, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this
Oops, I forgot—-I am definitely going to have to agree with the ones who said Monte Williams of Commerce. He was the best HS football player I have ever seen play. If this list is based solely on their prep careers, then Williams should undoubtedly be on the list…most likely Top 3 or 4.
The only person on your list that I totally disagree with is Reggie Brown. I have already seen about 4 or 5 suggestions that should be on the list above him.
By MURPHY
November 8, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this
MIKE BRINKELY OF DRUID HILLS
By Todd Holcomb
November 8, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this
Ronnie Brown was never an AJC player of the year, but instead an Associated Press player of the year. In retrospect, the AJC might’ve done better choosing Brown over Dondrial Pinkins.
For trivia’s sake, the AP’s all-class player of the year in 1999 was Monte Williams. The AJC’s choice was Travis Harris of SW DeKalb. I’m not sure what either is doing now, but I think Google would take me to Ronnie Brown right quick like.
By Jibi
November 8, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this
Tray Blackmon of LaGrange. He was a PARADE All-American. He was a 3-time All-State selection. He was the top defensive recruit in the nation. AAA Player of the Year. Mr. Football in Georgia. The list keeps going on. He redshirted his first year at Auburn and was suspended for the first seven games this season… but since he’s made his debut, I’d say that he has had more impact than any LB in recent Auburn history …since Takeo graced the plains (there’s been about 5-8 LBs come through Auburn since Takeo who are now playing on Sundays).
There’s no doubt that Tray will likely be an All-SEC selection next year and possibly an All-American candidate.
By Todd Holcomb
November 8, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this
Kind of fun to see names like Mike Brinkley of Druid Hills and Isaac Jackson of Lanier. I never saw either play but have heard people rave about them. Tucker coach Bill Ballard said Brinkley was the best high school QB he ever saw. Jackson held the state record in rushing in the 1960s as a junior, then was hurt as a senior, but was the first great African-American RB in the GHSA. Went to Kansas State maybe?
Re: offensive linemen. They did get the squeeze. Just seems like in high school football, one lineman can’t change a game like one great RB or QB or even LB. I thought about Chip Kell and the Stinchcombs. The only OL to be the AJC’s all-class player of the year was Parkview’s Zeb McKinzey, but he’s been no factor at Georgia.
The only problem I have with guys like Monte Williams and even Darius Walker is that they played for small-school teams. (So did Herschel Walker and Garrison Hearst, so I’m contradicting myself, but those two were SEC players of the year and long-time NFL guys.) Playing for a small school doesn’t mean you’re not great, but was Runt Moon better than William Andrews or James Brooks in the 1970s? Or Monte Williams better than Jamal Lewis in the 1990s? Even as high school players? I doubt it. But both set Georgia’s career rushing record.
Charlie Ward and George Rogers probably should be on there, as they didn’t suddenly become good in college. Each had a great high school career. On the other hand, I don’t think anyone considered Ward the best QB of the 1980s at the time. Should winning the Heisman Trophy four years later change that? Maybe so. It’s hard to separate their high school accomplishments from what they did in college and the NFL.
By Blair Cook
November 8, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this
Let’s not forget Terrance Edwards and Jessie Miller on the 1997 Washington County Golden Hawks that were quite GOLDEN with a 30-0 record in 1996-1997 and 2 BACK to BAcK STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS. They were two impressive athletes to watch in the Friday nite lights.
By JIm
November 8, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this
Todd, great stuff as usual, but one question what about Champ? 3 time all state selection, single game rushing record to boot. Not too shabby on those two fronts. I would have a hard time leaving him off that list, although what you have is strong but I would put him in for Deon Grant.
PS Enough on the Ronnie Brown talk, your list was not based on who was taken in what spot in the draft.
By Chase
November 8, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this
Ronnie Brown. He should be in the top 3.
By William
November 9, 2006 12:40 AM | Link to this
How about Stump Mitchell, 3rd leading rusher in 1980 behind George Rogers and Herschel Walker and played many years in the NFL. Richard Dent, Super Bowl MVP of the Chicago Bears. Ron Simmons (Fla. State), Outland Trophy winner and part of “Doom”, WWF world tag team wrestling champions.
By NG
November 9, 2006 07:56 AM | Link to this
Saw Champ and Deon Grant both play in high school and both were amazing. But Champ is much better.
By coach
November 9, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this
Maybe it should be the top 100 and not 10.
By Tom
November 9, 2006 08:10 AM | Link to this
Ray Guy may have been the best high school athlete to ever play in Georgia. Yes, Thomson won with defense (most teams did in those days), but Guy was a 6’ 4” safety on that team. He was All State in football, basketball, baseball, and track (I believe he won the high jump & 1 other field event). He threw a 90 MPH plus fastball and was the MVP in the Georgia HS All Star game after facing 9 batters in 3 innings. At Southern Miss, he was not only a great punter, but also an outstanding safety on defense.
Guy could do it all. He definitely needs to be in the Top 10. However, if you picked the best all around athlete to ever come out of Georgia, Guy is without a doubt (IMO) #1 on that list.
Thanks-Tom
By Mark
November 9, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this
How about Timmy Smith of Central Gwinnett back in 94-95? It’s a shame he didn’t play all four years. Barry Sanders-esque with twice as many yards sideline to sideline than endzone to endzone. And just as any other star back on a decent team, he sat out the 2nd half after compiling 200+ yards on 10 carries. Back then, he was drawing comparisons to Herschel and could have written his ticket to any DI school in the country.
By coachcory
November 9, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this
hey what about Anthony flagain joey Browner ross browner greg thompson latrez harrison gerald harp corey barlow the rockers william& george wynn anthony butts william marby and so on
By H2F
November 9, 2006 09:33 AM | Link to this
East Rome had some pretty decent athletes in the late 1970s. Ray Donaldson was used as a linebacker. Donaldson was such a good athlete, Dooley converted him to center in only a couple of days.
Al Pinkins was good, too. But as you mentioned, you have to have receivers to rack up the yards and touchdowns he did.
I think you could have a top ten from Valdosta from the same years and have nearly the overall talent as a list representing the entire state. Rome, Golden, Lastinger, Belue, etc. Can’t remember if he played football or not, but Stan’s older brother Roger was a pretty good athlete as well.
To fizzle out as much as he did in the pros, I remember a fine senior year from Quincy Carter at Southwest DeKalb.
‘Course, the Bailey boys weren’t too bad, either. Though he didn’t achieve nearly as much collegiately, Bama Adams wasn’t too shabby.
By Todd Holcomb
November 9, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this
Maybe it should be the top 100 and not 10.
You’ve got that right. I’m thinking of doing a 40-year all-star team. Twenty years ago, the AJC prep editor at the time, Steve Figueroa, did a 20-year team. It would just need some updating.
As for some of the names mentioned, I gave strong thought to Buck Belue, Quincy Carter and Champ Bailey.
In fact, here’s what I had written on Champ and Quincy before yanking them at the last minute —
Champ Bailey, Charlton County (1995): For his high school career, and reading right from the Denver Broncos’ media guide, Bailey rushed for 3,573 yards with 58 touchdowns and passed for 1,211 yards with 10 TDs. He also made 80 tackles, eight interceptions and four fumble recoveries.
Quincy Carter, Southwest DeKalb (1995): Carter passed for 2,139 yards in 1995 as SW DeKalb won its only state title under coach Buck Godfrey. Also rushed for 534 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. SWD was 27-2 in Carter’s junior and senior seasons. Carter was the AJC’s all-class player of the year and a Parade All-American as a senior.
And Belue was Figueroa’s choice as the top QB from 1966-1986. People forget he was a 4-year starter who left with Georgia’s career passing record for yardage.
The SW Atlanta guys — Tony Flanagan and Browner and the rest — those were great ones, too. Flanagan set the Georgia record for TD passes in a season in 1973 with 32. Just fwiw, Ross Browner didn’t play in Georgia in high school, but brothers Joey and Gerald did.
By Todd Holcomb
November 9, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this
And I shouldn’t neglect Ron Simmons. I had him in and out of the Top 10 before dropping him at the last minute. I might just be embellishing my youth, but I’ve always thought the 1970s had athletes that really stood out as almost legendary, far better athletically than almost anyone they came up against — Rome, Walker, Simmons, Kinnebrew. Great teams also — ‘71 Valdosta, ‘76 Warner Robins, ‘75 Americus, ‘77 East Rome, ‘73 SE Bulloch. Teams and players that had no peer. It was similar in basketball w/ the SW Macon teams. It could be that the high school game is so good now that it’s harder for one player or team to dominate that way.
By Jay
November 9, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this
What was the only team from GA to ever be named the High School Football National Champs??? LaGrange Grangers—1991…I think it’s only fitting that their All-Everything QB, the original Mike Vick, RODNEY HARRISON should be in the top 10…
By Jay
November 9, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this
…oops…that was RODNEY HUDSON—too early to be recalling feats from 15 years ago!!!
By O-Dog
November 9, 2006 10:29 AM | Link to this
How about Hines Ward - MVP. he is the only MVP from the state of Georgia. I can recall. He should be #2 at least or #1. I do respect #34 as #1. But
By bearwin
November 9, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this
Anyone remeber Jessie Tuggle from Griffin. How can you miss such a great Atlanta Falcon on your list.
By cc
November 9, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this
Maybe you should do one past coaches Such as coach Willie Hunter of fulton hi
By cc
November 9, 2006 12:05 PM | Link to this
Maybe you should do one past coaches Such as coach Willie Hunter of fulton hi
By oldskool
November 9, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this
Hey what about willie gault and maybe alan chadwick
By dawgfatha
November 9, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this
As a Brookwood grad, I have to give my vote to Jeff Francouer. Dude was simply amazing on the football field on both sides of the ball and singlehandedly beat us my last three years in school.
By Kenny
November 9, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this
How about Herbert Mingo from Clinch Co.Garrison Hearst even said himself that Mingo was a better RB.
By BY Central Fan
November 9, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this
Central Gwinnetts Chris Harrison 1993, best noseman ever at Central, had a cool Joe Dirt Mullet too. That year Chris helped his team beat Brookwood like a drum. Made Travis Stroud out of UGA from Dunwoody HS cry lke a baby. Now Travis ought to be on this list too.
By Todd Holcomb
November 9, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this
Couple of drive-by comments …
Central Gwinnett’s Chris Harrison 1993, best noseman ever at Central, …Made Travis Stroud out of UGA from Dunwoody HS cry lke a baby. Now Travis ought to be on this list too.
Maybe, although do you mean Marcus Stroud of Brooks County? He’s the Pro Bowl player for the Jaguars. Both were great in high school about the same time.
How about Hines Ward - MVP. he is the only MVP from the state of Georgia. I can recall. He should be #2 at least or #1. I do respect #34 as #1.
Just as a point of trivia, Herschel was No. 43 at Johnson County.
By LION48
November 9, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
I had the plesure of playing against both Reggie Brown and Monte Williams, both on the state playoffs. I have to agree that Reggie deserves to be on there but Monte Williams is a MUST. That guy was unreal. I also want to say that as a high school running back George Lombard was as good as any.
By c'mon
November 9, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this
Any list that doesn’t include Jeff Backus from Norcross High School is in-valid. He is a pro-bowl level Left Tackle for the Lions. Was one of the top players on Michigan’s most recent national championship teams.
Here are some other names…. Champ and Boss Bailey Timmy Smith Caleb King Leonard Pope Calvin Johnson
By wolf man
November 9, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this
I am an avid Buford fan, that being said, Monte was and is the greatest back I have ever seen. I have never seen speed like he had. It it a true shame he couldnt spell his name. Timmy Smith would be playing NFL today and each time I see him I ask him “WHY he quit school?”
By wolf man
November 9, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this
Also, imagine how many touchdowns Darius wouldve had if he had played in the second half. Only 5 games in 2003, he played in the 3rd and 4th quarter.
By southern ha ha
November 9, 2006 06:52 PM | Link to this
If we’re talking top HIGH SCHOOL players and not their success after high school, you have to throw Robert Toomer and Fabian Walker in there # wise. as well as Monte Williams and Daccus Turman.
By southern ha ha
November 9, 2006 06:53 PM | Link to this
Remember Alfred Rawls? i think he still holds some track records from the 80s, and Dooley was in love with the guy.
By southern ha ha
November 9, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this
Herbert Mingo was a FREAK!
By 07
November 9, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this
Jeff Backus? Love for the lineman? He was an Offensive tackle for Norcross from 93-97. He was a four year starter. He was selected to the first-team All-USA squad by USA Today & AJC Super 11. He then recieved a full scholarship to the University of Michigan, where he started all 4 years. All Big-Ten 4 years, Second Team All-American & All Big-Ten first team his senior year. Won a National Championship in 97 with Michigan. WEnt on to be a first round draft pick in 01 (18th overall) and has started every game since for the Detroit Lions at Left tackle.
I honestly, think he is one of the best if not the best lineman to come out of Gwinnett.
By Joe
November 9, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this
Yes, Monte needs to be in there. He would have dominated if he had played in AAAAA IMO. Also, if ‘77 East Rome was legendary and so dominating, how’d they only beat Commerce (who had no true star talent) by one point in OT due to the penetration rule?
By Joe
November 9, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this
Yes, Monte needs to be in there. He would have dominated if he had been in AAAAA IMO. Also, if ‘77 East Rome was legendary and so dominating how’d they only beat Commerce (who had no true star talent) by one point in OT due to the penetration rule?
By OT
November 9, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this
James Brooks was, pound for pound, the best ever
By trion man
November 9, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this
wallace clark of the trion bulldogs set state record in 100 yard dash , but was a great running back for the trion bulldogs and all- american at auburn with pat sullivan. he played briefly with atlanta falcons.
By StingerSplash
November 10, 2006 05:00 AM | Link to this
Mingo was a legend. But I’d have to go with Anthony Flanagan. Few metro Atlanta athletes of the last 40 years (aside from Francoeur) to get as much attention or to have as many tales and legends told about him. Also, couldn’t Jay Hobby throw with either hand? And I’ll have to put in a nod for Bradwell’s John Stewart, 2,186 yards in Class AAAA as a junior in 1985.
By jeff
November 10, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this
I would add Jamal Lewis of Douglass to that list. He was playing 2 or 3 qtrs before getting pulled because he already had 200 yards
By Jason
November 10, 2006 10:21 AM | Link to this
How about Matt Stinchcomb? A truly dominating force on the offensive line, and one of the main reasons that Parkview ran the ball so well. Back before Parkview had really marquee skill position players,(with all due respect to Jeremy Muyers), the O-Line was the reason they won games. Not to mention, Stinch had a pretty good career at UGA and was a 1st round draft pick.
By Darian Hall
November 10, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this
I cannot believe you guys. You missed Jamal Lewis James Davis Quincy Carter and a bunch of other folk.
By Reggie
November 10, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this
James Davis is going to make his name in about two or three years this man leads colloge football in rushing. He is going to be big when he gets to the league. Trust me.
By mesue
November 10, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this
I read above the blog that said Jeff Francouer single handedly beat Brookwood the last three times he played them. I saw him beat Collins Hill in 1999 the first four times he touched the ball. Offense and defense two pass recptions for td’s and two interceptions for TD’s and he did this at CHHS. The next year same results almost only it was just three touchdowns he scored and two interceptions. The guy was the BEST Football Player I ever saw in high school. The only reason he is not mentioned is because he left Football behind and went to the Braves. Had he gone on to Clemson he would have turned the College Football world upside down. Then the Pro world which he would own…. I saw most of the ones you listed play at one time or another and I love HW but NO ONE not even HW could hold a candle to JF #12. I would say at least 8 of the ones you list could not stay on the field with him.
By Tommy
November 10, 2006 10:04 PM | Link to this
I saw quite a few of the players on your list play and a few that didn’t make the list. But, I never saw anyone that dominated the game like Larry Kennibrew. I remember reading a Sports Illustrated that was comparing Hersheral Walker to him when Walker was a senior in high school. East Rome had a couple of little scat backs to go along with Larry, but when he rumbled players would run FROM him instead in his direction. He was a MAN amoung little boys on the field.
By All Knowing
November 10, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
I really like the list, but it seems as if you are using some parts tangible numbers and some parts legendary status.
I would replace Zeier, Deon Grant and Reggie Brown with Champ, Ray Guy and Francouer. Ray Guy was 4 sport All-State and, I believe, he was all-state at 4 different football positions. Champ Bailey is a Hall of Fame NFL player, and he was a great, great HS player and had incredible stats. Francouer’s performances in state title games are legendary.
I really like the list, and I realize that the AJC ties had to be used, but I just dont see how your 3 guys are better more qualified than the ones I mentioned.
By All Knowing
November 10, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this
I really like the list, but it seems as if you are using some parts tangible numbers and some parts legendary status.
I would replace Zeier, Deon Grant and Reggie Brown with Champ, Ray Guy and Francouer. Ray Guy was 4 sport All-State and, I believe, he was all-state at 4 different football positions. Champ Bailey is a Hall of Fame NFL player, and he was a great, great HS player and had incredible stats. Francouer’s performances in state title games are legendary.
I really like the list, and I realize that the AJC ties had to be used, but I just dont see how your 3 guys are better more qualified than the ones I mentioned.
By UpInTennessee
November 10, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this
How can you have a list of top 10 and not include James Brooks at Warner Robins High who then went on to be a great back at Auburn and then in the NFL and I think still ranks very high in career rushing yards for the Cincinnati Bengals.
By cw
November 10, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this
Does anyone remember Andre Hastings from Morrow High School… All-American in high school. Considered the best receiver in the nation.
By ugalaw
November 11, 2006 12:06 AM | Link to this
I find it funny that people said “How could you leave out [insert name here]” for about 40 different players in a top 10 list.
By chuck d
November 11, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this
Jason Womack from Tiftarea had one of the best seasons ever at LB in 1993. Look it up…dude
By John
November 11, 2006 03:37 AM | Link to this
William Kent at West Rome. The only player who started on all four state championship teams and—according to those who played against him—the toughest back to tackle ever. He didn’t have much of a career at Alabama but that doesn’t change his high school stats.
Others—Buck Belue at Valdosta, Ken Hobby at Tift County (few were more highly recruited), Runt Moon at Commerce, James Jackson at Mitchell-Baker.
By Phil T.
November 11, 2006 10:13 AM | Link to this
Daccus Turman ring a bell? He’s only the LEADING SINGLE SEASON RUSHER IN GA.’s HISTORY!!!!!!!!
By jswey07
November 11, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this
It is perhaps way to early to make this call….. but give it a few years and Calvin Johnson will be the best player to ever come out of Georgia High School Football.
By Addmore
November 12, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this
This list could go on forever. There have been a number of really good players. Morris “Mo” Lewis-Murphy (became Crim), UGA, N.Y. Jets. Kevin Butler-(I think Redan)
By Lin
November 12, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this
IF we’re strictly talking “high school” careers - What about Charlie Dudish, Avondale H.S., Decatur, GA? No. 1 Back in the Nation 1968
By terry b
November 12, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this
how can you have a list without james brooks on it? i agree pound for pound he was the best. remember their was one year the nfl named him the franchise player; the player you would most want to start a team with. by the way i saw both the 76 warner robins and 71 valdosta teams. wr was better.
By Warner Robins Football Fan
November 12, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this
James Brooks is the best RB I have ever witnessed play football in the state of Ga.I have been attending HS footbll games for 35years to incl playing at WR and have never seen speed,agility,elusiveness,and the ability to hit like a heavyweight like James.He also held the NFL record for all purpose yards at one time.I agree with terry b,the 1976 team is likely the best team to ever play football in state of Ga.
By Jon
November 12, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this
You shouldn’t rank the top 10 HS players based on their pro careers, but based on HS careers only. If that’s true, Timmy Smith from Central Gwinnett should definitely be in the top 5. He was a man-child who, unfortunately, couldn’t stay out of trouble.
By Todd Holcomb
November 12, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this
by the way i saw both the 76 warner robins and 71 valdosta teams. wr was better.
Maybe that should be our next list. … I’m going to say ‘71 Valdosta for two reasons. One is that Valdosta never came close to losing, except perhaps the 42-21 victory over an outstanding Moultrie team with Ray Goff. It was 21-21 entering the 4th. Warner Robins had a closer scare to Hardaway, had to win on a late TD by Womack, maybe 35-29. That makes me think Warner Robins might’ve been a little more mortal than Valdosta. The other reason was that I can’t remember a good Valdosta team ever losing to Warner Robins. That little Valdosta mystique might be the difference. Who knows. Would’ve been a great game.
By Swatguy
November 12, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this
Flan The Man
By Warner Robins Football Fan
November 13, 2006 08:51 AM | Link to this
I agree a game between 1971 cats and 1976 Demons would of been the game of games.Todd,true enough WR did have a scare to a great Hardaway team and the score was 35-28.A little side note,the team was so upset over their lack of concentration against Hardaway the next week they played Jordan Of Columbus and beat them 90-0.Coach Davis played the 3rd,4th strings,waterboys,etc the entire 2nd half and Jordan still couldn’t stop the scoring.But when it counted in the play-offs(3 games)WR outscored opponents 132-7 to incl a 34-0 beating of Griffin in the state championship game.When a team has the likes of James Brooks,Jimmy Womack,Keith Soles,Ronald Simmons,Byron Walker,Jessie Cannion,among many other outstanding players all on the same team…can’t see anyone beating them.WR outscored opponents 614-86 over a 13 game season.I think the difference maker between the Cats and Demons would’ve been James Brooks,which I believe among many others,to be the greatest RB ever in the state of Ga pound for pound.But man what a game it would have been.
By Blake Giles
November 13, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this
Hard to argue with this list. A note on Andy Johnson. In that state championship game in 1969, Valdosta’s defense was flagged on the last play of the half, giving Athens High one additional play after time expired. Johnson scored a touchdown on that play. Athens wanted to go for two, but the referee would not let the Trojans call a time out since time had expired. They missed the kick. After the game, Weyman Sellers said of Andy: “He is the only player I ever had who could score as part of the halftime show.”
By AG
November 13, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this
I think Champ Baily should be before Eric Z, and Takeo Spike should not be in the top 10 maybe the top 30 and HEarst #2 I think.
By ALFRED RAWLS
November 20, 2006 01:17 AM | Link to this
I CAN SAY THIS I SHOULD BE IN THE TOP 10 PLAYER IN THE STATE OF GA AMONG OTHERS PLAYER GO KENTUCKY WILDCATS