Prep Zone

By jag count

August 27, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Stephenson returns 13 starters and another 4 players with considerable playing time. Norcross and coffee are ranked ahead of shs. we beat the brakes off coffee and norcross lost early in the playoffs. when are you going give SHS some credit. let not wait until they are 9-0 and maybe lose one and they drop out of the top ten

By Billy

August 27, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

I really do not care about Preseason polls. It is the last one that counts in my mind. But, where is Parkview???

By Coffee Boy

August 27, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Beat the brakes off Coffee??? 17-7, if memory serves one touchdown came on a punt return and you had 1 first down in the second half.

By Didn't Win

August 27, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

Correction to Mr. Holcomb’s comment about Roswell, “when it won the school’s first state title in 36 years”. Any way you look at it, a tie is not a WIN (and it’s not a LOSS but it’s a TIE.) i.e. Last time I looked, team records indicate wins-losses-ties. Last year’s state championship game was the worse ever played…the coaches for each school played not to lose instead of playing to win….boring.

By Where's Parkview?

August 27, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Who is Parkview?

By T.J.

August 27, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

You have Brookwood in Top 10. In the paper this weekend I saw article on Grayson with predicted 8 wins in Region 8-AAAAA. Grayson who? Who really is the top team in that Region? Central seem really strong with predicted 9 wins! Guess you think both teams to lose to Brookwood. Articles seems to indicate someone in 8-AAAAA will be in the dome at the end of the season. Looking forward to reading Football Preview of Brookwood!

By fairplay

August 27, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Brookwood is not the team from a few ago. Top Ten? We’ll see how they play North Gwinnett, that should be an early indicator. I heard this was Grayson’s year in Region 8?

By Todd Holcomb

August 27, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

It’s fun to be blogging on this again. Can’t wait until Friday.

Quick comments —

re: Stephenson: I expect Stephenson to be contending for a state title again. Could’ve put the Jags anywhere from 2-7. No disrepsect intended. Stephenson had its moments last season, but also was inconsistent, so that was my relucant to put the Jaguars in the top three top open.

where is Parkview???

I was tempted, if only to rile people up. I expect Parkview to be much better.

You have Brookwood in Top 10. In the paper this weekend I saw article on Grayson with predicted 8 wins in Region 8-AAAAA. Grayson who? Who really is the top team in that Region? I think Grayson has the best talent, but Brookwood plays with the most confidence. Those two, plus Parkview, have about the same chance of winning that region.

Correction to Mr. Holcomb’s comment about Roswell, “when it won the school’s first state title in 36 years”. Any way you look at it, a tie is not a WIN (and it’s not a LOSS but it’s a TIE.)

I just know that from here on out, it won’t be possible in Georgia to win a state title without winning a state championship game.

By Matt

August 27, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Buford could beat anyone in the country, and yes I did say COUNRTY.

By Metro Coach

August 27, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

If Gartrell could coach at all, Stephenson would be sittin on about five gold balls already. Year in year out they have the best talent in the state, support and resources that the rest of dekalb lacks, and they still can’t beat inferior teams in the playoffs. Watch them lose to McNair again. STOP CHOKING and win one for the (real) metro area teams.

By Marietta Boy

August 27, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

Marietta beat Brookwood 28-6 in a week ago. So that could 2 things. Ethier Brookwood isnt as good as projected or Marietta needs to be in the top 10.We have to be our region favorite. I was suprised by the outcome because we never do particulary well against South GA teams.

By NSHS FAN

August 27, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Okay Todd, you started it! Reference what you said about Northside HS bloggers. We dearly love our State Championship Team. I wish we could play you best ATL area teams during the year. Oh well, we will just wait to kick their butts again in the finals. Tell me who it will it be—-Marist, Pius, Paulding, or Habersham Central?

By powbeech

August 27, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Watch out for Valdosta!

By josh

August 27, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

stephens co #9 and hart #1 please, we dominated hart at hart and completly dominated that game with poole we only lost 3 outstanding linebackers if they could not stop us last year they won,t stop us at home this year, i know they played peach hard but does that mean they should be #1

By josh

August 27, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

stephens #9 and hart #1 please, we dominated hart last year at hart, i know they played peach tough but does that mean they should be #1?

By Bohgey

August 27, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Region 1-AAAAA is the first for a reason. Lowndes is experienced and under a lot of radars. Last I checked, north Georgia didn’t fair too well against the Vikings. Valdosta and the Tomberlin train is building hype and will be a force to reckon with. It will be hard for any team to come down I-75 and not expect bumps,bruises and disappointment.

By Chris

August 27, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

I saw Grayson play Dacula in scrimmage. They are for real!!! They had Sophmores and Juniors that could start anywhere else. Skill and depth will kill. Just ask Dacula’s injured QB about Grayson’s defense. And ask Dacula’s Defense about the Sophmore back they couldn’t catch! Grayson is Top 10 team next 3 years.

By Todd Holcomb

August 27, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Lowndes is experienced and under a lot of radars. Last I checked, north Georgia didn’t fair too well against the Vikings.

Be careful. Central Gwinnett, a North Georgia team, won at Lowndes last season. Lowndes should be very tough in 2007, though. Probably a team that can win it.

stephens #9 and hart #1 please, we dominated hart last year at hart, i know they played peach tough but does that mean they should be #1?

It’s more than just playing Peach tough. Hart also won at Cartersville in the playoffs and was playing like a top 5 team by the end of the year. Hart also returns everybody it needs to contend or even win it all. And everything I read coming out of Athens or the South Carolina papers that cover those teams suggested that Hart was the most talented team.

But your question is still a great one, and would’ve been even tougher to answer if you’d reminded me that Stephens has beaten Hart four years in a row!

By josh

August 27, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

just to let you know todd, those sc, and athens papers slant towards hart, they have picked hart to win the region the last three years and they have not won it , stephens on the other hand stephens has won the last 2 region championships with mostly underclassmen, this year we have seniors at key positions

By D.S.G.B.

August 27, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Once again Todd, you have left out Cairo in Triple A. Actions speak louder than words!!!!!

By jag count

August 27, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Coffee boy, the only time coffee was in the game was after they walked into the stadium. Our defense dominated the entire game and last time I checked special teams was apart of the game. if your coaches spent as much time coaching all phases you would have been able to stop all phases of the game, but I thought that great 1AAAAA region taught everything.

By HOCO

August 27, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Region 1-AAAAA is once again going to be tough this year All the rankings are respectable, except that Houston County gets no respect from Atlanta. We have a new head coach, new offense, and a QB who can led the team far…once again we have depth at running back (AAAAA offensive POTY Eric O’neal graduated)…and our recieving corps if amazing with the new offense….Defense is big, fast, and strong….

whats up with MLK being 10….we blanked them 28-0 in the playoffs last year…

By Clubhouse

August 27, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Stephenson is for real this year!Gartrell finally has changed his offense and they looked great. Better than the defense this year. I have seen a lot of teams play and the could possibly go undefeated in the regular season. This 1st game against Banneker will show a lot.

By GriffinMBABulldawg

August 27, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

The “knowledgeable” sports writer forgot to include Griffin in the AAAA Top 10. Griffin has AJC Super 11 Defensive End Toby Jackson and a strong supporting cast from last year’s 11-1 team. This is program with athletes that reloads. It also has the tradition of producing more NFL players than any other high school in the State of Georgia.

How did Marist make the Top 10? Alan Chadwick is a good coach and an even better recruiter. It’s the same story every year. Marist has a good year, but CHOKE in the playoffs when it counts. They looked pathetic against Northside WR last year. Besides, the White Buffalo (Preston Lyons) has moved on to play collegiately at Colgate. Ergo, no running game.

By davil

August 27, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Middle Georgia teams do not get the recognition from metro Atlanta until they smear their teams. Then it’s, “Where did they come from?” FLY HIGH NORTHSIDE!

By Hornet Nation

August 28, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

Didn’t Win - your the looser - where was your team last year?

By Buzz In Roswell

August 28, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

Hey Todd, if you’re so bold to claim that Roswell is better than NSWR (which I agree with you on) how about thinking up a top 10 for the whole state? Could make for some interesting debate.

By For real though

August 28, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this

While I agree with Roswell #1 ranking given most of their players are returning from last year, I got a strong suspicion the same two teams from last year’s championship game will be back again this year(bracket depending). Peachtree Ridge will be minus 44 graduating seniors from last years miracle team, some in critical positions, however, there are capable quality players moving up to shore up and even upgrade some of those positions. Need I say the obvious; the winner this year will be none other than Peachtree Ridge. They realize they will get their opponents best game, which will serve to further legitimize their crown this year. New head coach Bill Ballard is a wiz for having winning programs, so expect nothing less than an improved season from the 2007 Ridge team.

By The Monk

August 28, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

The Marist comment above is pretty humorous, though probably correct in that the rating is too high. The funny part is the choking and recruiting comment. They got to the state championship with 22 starters, perhaps 5 of whom could have started on Northside’s team and simply ran out of gas after beating several more talented teams to get there. If Chadwick is so good at recruitin’, why doesn’t he recruit D-1 players. He had ONE last year.

By trojanboy

August 28, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

man why yall fussin about stephenson and coffee we lost give it a rest im a big time coffee fan i will admit stephenson played a heck of a game so quit fussin i mean we lost we cant change that and oh yea and to jag count all i go to say is yall better watch out that trojan train is rollin this year and harder than ever and we will avenge ourself holla go trojans go

By Hmmmm

August 28, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Until Buford learns how to beat Charlton Cty they are stil everybodies dream to end the season as #1. Seems a couple of years ago we were saying the same thing about Buford and Charlton was reloading. At the end of the season the state champ was Charlton.

By Yo

August 28, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Yea…Stephenson is “for real” every year and every year they “for real” never win state.

By Bohgey

August 28, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Todd, I am very partial to Lowndes, and I remember how hard Central Gwinnett played last year in that win. We will all get a good idea of how the north/south football war will work out later. As for Friday, I’m sure Harrison, a very good team, will be gunning for our heads. If they are, they must be ready for a fight. I think it will be a great way to start the season. What is your pick?

By jag count

August 28, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

trojan boy i appreciate your honesty. you guys also had alot of underclassman, so i dont doubt you will be very good. as for the rest of the haters Yo and metro coach pick a side now and stop riding the fence, therefore when we are playing in the dome in december we will not need to save you a seat on our side.

By WarD@mnEagle

August 28, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

GriffinMBABulldawg, your comments about the Marist War Eagles proves your ignorance about high school sports and football in particular. Moreover, your pathetic, hackneyed accusation that Marist recruits players is as pitiable as your “choke” claim. Is Chadwick a good coach? Well, you got that one right. His (.863) winning percentage is the best all time in Georgia High School history.
Recruiter? Yeah, Marist recruits a team full of some of the toughest 5’10” 190 lb, kids around. Have you ever looked at a Marist roster, much less seen a Marist game? Marist’s Offensive Line averaged 217 lbs. last year. That’s some great recruiting. The Defensive Line averaged 199 lbs. and the back-up Nose Guard was 5’8” 1451bs. Geez, Alan is recruiting Atlanta far and wide bringing in this kind of size! And as far as Marist “choking” in the playoffs? Marist has made the playoffs every year since 1983…24 years in a row. We have Two State Championships, Six trips to the State finals, six games in the Semi-finals and Six games into the Quarter-finals during this period. If that’s choking then I know a few programs that would love to choke. Perhaps even a little MBA mind would like these winning percentages.
Moreover, little bear Marist WINS with a AA enrollment. Yes, all these victories and trips to the Dome and beyond are against schools twice as big as Marist. To top it off we have won the AAAA All-Sports Director’s Cup since its inception in 2000, seven years in a row. The best all-around sports program in AAAA with a AA enrollment. Moreover, in 2005 Sports Illustrated ranked Marist the 15th Best High School Sports Program in the USA. So MBA, do your school proud. Griffin has a proud tradition of winning, class and dignity. You can root for your school without attempting to tear down others. Marist lost 40 seniors from last years team but come playoff time we will be where we always are. Best of luck to the Griffin Bears and Go Dawgs! However next time don’t bring a fork to a gunfight…Ergo, no facts, no proof, no sense and lots of blood…

By Yo

August 28, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

Jag count…stating the truth is not being a hater. But it does hurt the ears of those who don’t desire to hear it. As for fence riding, I learned a long time ago that can be very painful also. Bohgey…my prediction is Lowndes by 3, as in touchdowns. I don’t believe that prediction would ever qualify as fence riding.

By trojan 93

August 28, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

Coffee is returning a lot of experienced players. Including a QB that should have played last year. The ranking may not last, we are in the equivalent of the SEC of high school football in 1-AAAAA. When you play that caliber of football weekly it will pay off at season’s end. You north Ga. guys kill me… Come down 75 any Friday night and get some…

By trojan 93

August 28, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

Stephenson take not being ranked highly as your motivation..Oh yeah stop living in the past!! We are in the NOW !! The now is that us country boyz from Coffee welcome any of you Northerners down 75 anytime!! Friday Night only!! WE DON’T PLAY Sat morning football….

By Todd Holcomb

August 28, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Once again Todd, you have left out Cairo in Triple A. Actions speak louder than words!!!!!

Cairo, along w/ Monroe, is on the bubble, perhaps the next in line when somebody in the Top 10 loses. But Cairo will have trouble being 2-0 w/ Thomasville sitting there in Week Two.

The “knowledgeable” sports writer forgot to include Griffin in the AAAA Top 10.

I didn’t forget, but the omission could certainly bite me. Griffin lost all but 5-6 starters from what I heard. Bobby Rainey was one of them. The only team that I gave some slack for losing that may starters was Marist, a team that more consistently makes the QF or better.

I am very partial to Lowndes, and I remember how hard Central Gwinnett played last year in that win. We will all get a good idea of how the north/south football war will work out later. As for Friday, I’m sure Harrison, a very good team, will be gunning for our heads. If they are, they must be ready for a fight. I think it will be a great way to start the season. What is your pick?

I don’t see Harrison winning at Lowndes, although both teams are better than 2006. For the No. 10 spot, I was torn among Harrison, North Cobb, Grayson and MLK. Chose MLK.

Until Buford learns how to beat Charlton Cty they are stil everybodies dream to end the season as #1.

That’s true, but I think the team most likely to win state this season in all classes is Northside, then Buford, then Roswell. The rest is anybody’s guess.

re: HoCo

I haven’t talked to anyone who believes Houston County will finish in the top 3 of Region 1-AAAAA. That doesn’t mean you’re not a Top 10 team, but there’s too much turnover at HoCo for me to think the Bears should be ranked there at the start. Also, MLK probably has more D-1 prospects than any team in the state. It’s time for them to step up.

By Give some dap to PIus

August 28, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

Where’s Pius in 4a come on what happened last year should be up there. However we are out to prove everyone wrong again this year, GO PIUS

By 4A fan

August 28, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Todd, SWD the tenth ranked team in 4A. How did you come up with that one. You must be kidding right? What do they have left but old tradition? I maybe wrong, but they may not make it out of their region. Please tell me why you made this selection.

By GriffinMBABulldawg

August 28, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

WarD@mnEagle - I was throwing in some sarcasm with my comments about Marist. I didn’t mean any offense. Maybe I should have chosen my words more carefully. A blog entry doesn’t easily convey a sarcastic tone or intent.

I have always had the greatest respect for the Marist program. Marist is a great school academically and athletically. Coach Chadwick is one of Georgia’s all-time great coaches evidenced by his record. The Marist students are clean-cut, model citizens. I like seeing Marist do well.

I was looking forward to a Griffin-Marist matchup last year in the quarterfinals, but the Bears choked against Creekside. I was happy to see Marist abuse Tennessee recruit Eric Berry and whip Creekside on its way to the Dome.

The “recruiter” comment was based on former Georgia House Speaker Tom Murphy’s contention that all private schools were recruiting athletes that put his poor little Bremen High at a disadvantage. He was serious. I meant it in a facetious manner. Because of Tom Murphy’s threat of legislative action, the GHSA moved to 5 classifications and penalized private schools by inflating their enrollments by a factor of 1.5 when assigning their classification. That is why Marist has been placed in AAAA with a AA enrollment. Fortunately, the Communist Democrats no longer run Georgia.

Since the inception of the AJC Super 11 in 1985, Marist has only produced one - Brandon Russell in 1999. I can recall a few other Marist blue chip players: LB Matt Miller (Ga Tech) and Bartley Miller (Georgia). Coach Chadwick does get the maximum out of his undersized kids.

If Marist actually did “recruit”, the roster would be full of 6’5”, 275 pound linemen and skill players with 4.4 speed.

The “choke” comment was based on Marist going deep into the state playoffs year after year and losing. That was an unfair jab. Many teams would like to have the success of Marist to be in a position to lose in the playoffs.

I appreciate your thorough and vigorous defense of Marist.

Griffin did lose some offensive firepower, so time will tell how good the team will be. I’m more concerned about Saturday evening ‘Tween the Hedges when the Dawgs face the Cowboys.

By T.J.

August 28, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

I just saw the Brookwood football preview. They have a really tough schedule. And not much they can bank on the defensive side of the ball. Their last 3 games will be really interesting, could decide region 8-AAAAA. It is my unbiased opinion it is Grayson that takes the region based on what I read and heard. Grayson who? Jim and others made it sound like Grayson has the talent, guess it falls on coaching then? Another question I have, where does 8-AAAAA stack against other regions as a whole? I need to get out more.

By clubhouse

August 29, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

Stephenson was chosen #1 when the AJC asked college coaches what H.S. in Georgia would they go to first to recruit players. That says a lot. As a parent what would I rather my son have next year this time: a state championship ring or a college scholarship. I understand the bragging rights for winning state but too often that is the highlight of their career. They never see a college field let alone a D1 college field.

Coach Gartrell may not have a lot of rings but he sure does have a lot of former players playing D1 and even pro ball with many more to come. Georgia, Florida, Florida State, Tulane, LSU, Marshall, Maryland, GT, Ohio State, Alabama, Ole Miss, Auburn… These are just some of the head coaches that visit our campus regularly each year. Now imagine all that and the ring we will have this year. Wouldn’t you like to be a JAGUAR???

By Hmmmm

August 29, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

Clubhouse…are you trying to say that if some other schools had your talent year after year they would “never” lose state? Seems that way to me. What is better, to achieve upwards or to achieve downwards? Best talent should win if it achieves upwards. You shouldn’t be hating on Stephenson with those comments.

By jag count

August 29, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Stephenson must be doing something right. there’s alot of people talking about us good or bad. I feel good just because we are on your minds. see ya at the dome.

By de fault

August 29, 2007 7:46 AM | Link to this

Marist does recruit. My nephew got a free ride at the school several years ago. Ah the advantage of talent, grades, and citizenship.

By WarD@mnEagle

August 29, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

GriffinMBABulldawg,

My apologies. If you would have mentioned Mr. Murphy, I would have caught the sarcasm right away. The folks I know from Griffin are great people. My misunderstanding for not catching the facetious tone. We need some smilies on this blog. ;p

Best of luck this year. The Dogs will take a close one. And let the War Eagles and Bears meet in the Dome.

Peace

By Todd Holcomb

August 29, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

re: SWD & SPX.

You might be right about SWD not getting out of the region, but that’s a compliment to the region, not a slam on SWD. The Panthers are returning virtually everybody and will have at least 10 college signees. They should be way up.

Since the inception of the AJC Super 11 in 1985, Marist has only produced one - Brandon Russell in 1999. I can recall a few other Marist blue chip players: LB Matt Miller (Ga Tech) and Bartley Miller (Georgia). Coach Chadwick does get the maximum out of his undersized kids.

Matt Miller and Bartley Miller also were AJC Super 11’s. I agree w/ your comment about Coach Chadwick. No question he’s one of the best around.

re: Stephenson

It always bothers me to hear people take shots at Coach Gartrell. There are lots of schools in metro Atlanta, especially in DeKalb, that have loads of talent, but Stephenson is the premier program (public) in the county, and Gartrell built it from scratch. Yet there’s this perception that he’s not a good coach. D-1 signees aren’t always the best high school football players. They are the best prospects. They are the strongest and the fastest. That counts for a lot, certainly, but you can have a good coach and lots of raw talent and still struggle for various reasons.

By Todd Holcomb

August 29, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

Forgot to comment on St. Pius. I’d be very surprised if the Lions made the state playoffs. Region is so strong, and there were some key losses to graduation, plus the transfer of Johathan (sp?) Davis, which was a big blow. He’s one of the 3-4 best high school players in DeKalb, and he’s only a junior.

By Citi slicker

August 29, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

1st of all there should b an sub division spilt in region 6 4a but thats another issue.stepheson has it harder to get the championship game it has no home stadium and swd u gotta respect them they are the model for dekalb and other black schools with football and band programs two teams missing are ceadar grove and mcnair watch out 4 those teams

By SeminoleWarrior

August 29, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Glad to see some love for the DAWGS of Thomasville High. Fitzgerald, Cook, and Early will make things very interesting but it is now time for the DAWGS nation to retake it place at the top and bring home a state title. GO DAWGS!!!

By SouthGaRebel

August 29, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Continue to rank the most powerful football teams in the state (those in South Georgia) and continue to get embarassed every year come playoff time. Imported Yankee’s in Atlanta are no match for the remaining nail spitting tough guys outside of the metro area. Metro Area re nothing but a bunch of pretty boy imports.

By Tyrone

August 29, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Todd what do you think about M.L. King this season? They lost alot on the defensive side but they still return an abundance of talent that had a year to grow under the pressure of a 5a football schedule. There will be some entertaining games between them and Stephenson for many years (last year was just the first) those games are going to be loaded with D-1 signees for years…

By Canes Fan

August 29, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

We will find out if Buford is as good as you say on September 7th when they play Cartersville.

By Champions

August 29, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Hey Didn’t Win - Let’s go over this one more time: the rule was games ending in ties results in co-champions therefore both teams “win” the championship even though no one won the game. Sounds like you’re a little sour because your team “Didn’t Play.” I just hope for all of AAAAA that the referee that called that roughing the “passer” penalty late in the fourth quarter of the championship game is back in rehab where he belongs. Game over without that bad call on 3rd and 8.

By WarD@mnEagle

August 29, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

de fault,
Your comment-“Marist does recruit. My nephew got a free ride at the school several years ago.” * is a flat-out LIE!*

Marist does not give athletic or academic scholarships. Marist never has nor do they give full scholarships. Marist does award tuition assistance to students of demonstrated financial need. This award is never over 50% of the full tuition. (see link below)

Moreover, as far as the recruiting myth goes, Marist has 13 kids over 200 lbs this year. Once again, the Marist recruiting machine is doing a very poor job. Certain other schools who will remain nameless always seem to get the transfers. Maybe we keep winning year after year after year with no size, small numbers, little speed and no superstars because of other reasons? Nah…

Therefore, another myth about Marist destroyed by the TRUTH! But don’t let facts get in the way of a good story…

http://www.marist.com/podium/default.aspx?t=12416

By Tom

August 29, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

As a Marist alum, its good to see that WarD@mnEagle is making his point and making the rest of us proud by vigarously defending baseless and foolish comments by people who clearly know nothing of the program. Kudos to you my friend.

I look forward to another great season for the War Eagles. When I went there, we pretty well owned Pius and North Springs, but its good to see that those games will be hard-fought this year too.

Good luck to all..

By D.Carter

August 29, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

U cannot possibly measure Coach Gartrell on state championships alone.. While there is no such thing as the perfect coach and in a day and age of character assasinations and media hypocrisy I wouldnt have my son play for anyone else.. I have experianced and witnessed first hand the care and love that he extends to his players from more than just a football perspective, while they are attending Stephenson and after they are gone on to the game of life.

I want to win just as much as the next football dad but look at whats happening to our young athletes… while they are extremely gifted in athletics.. Some are going into the game of life unprepared to play the Ultimate game and deal with the day in and day out ups and downs that come along with the pressure of just being a man…. Thank God for the coach gartrell’s and buck godfrey’s of the world….

ps… Go Jags

By Vet

August 29, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

MLK WILL GO ALLLLLL THE WAY THIS YEAR!

By Vet

August 29, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

MLK WILL GO ALLLLLL THE WAY THIS YEAR!

By Caneman

August 29, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

Fitzgerald is due for a title don’t you think. They didn’t lose anyone and they won’t lose anyone this year either, they are very young and hungry. Pruitt has added old faces from his years in Florida to the coaching staff and appears to be taking things more seriously now. It’s times to build a dynasty, beginning with a middle school program that hasn’t lost in 6 years!

By Caneman

August 29, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

I forgot to mention that Fitzgerald is the only team to beat Charlton, the defending 3 time state champ, who is 42-2-1 over the last 3 years. Both losses came at the hands of a young hurricane squad. The Canes just seem to peak too early and if we can get over that hump with this crew it’s on.

By WarD@mnEagle

August 29, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Tom, It’s good to see another War Eagle on this forum. As most of the free world knows, Marist’s record both athletically and academically speaks for itself. It’s sad other folks see fit to feel the need to tear down the accomplishments of a group of fine Christian student-athletes. I have never had to demean another’s accomplishments to uplift my own.

We are in a heck of a conference this year with Tucker, St. Pius, SWD, Mays and an improving Cedar Grove, Stone Mountain, Columbia, Washington and Lakeside. Only 4 teams make the playoffs. Marist has its work cut out for them. As Coach Chadwick teaches every week, “You must give respect to get respect.”

WarD@mnEagle!

By rw

August 29, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

It’s that time of year again, Friday Night Lights. Wishing SWD a great season. 6A has to be one of the toughest regions, lets look forward to some good games and stop bad mouthing teams, in the end these are still only kids. Good Luck to all the 6A schools and the best team will surely win. Emphasis on TEAM.

By rw

August 29, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

I notice a lot of people talk about Marist on here. I watched several Marist games last year and they simply out played and out hustled their opponents. I am not a Marist fan but when a team whips your butt on the field at least give them their props.

By notaskrubb

August 30, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Hey, I was at the Marietta/Brookwood scrimmage. Marietta only scored twice. 1 was a busted def back play and the other was short yardage run in by the QB who is D1. Brookwood will be around at the end.

By Vet

August 30, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

MLK will clinch division 5 this year going ALLLLL the way!

By Vet

August 30, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

MLK will clinch division 5 this year going ALLLLL the way!

By Vet

August 30, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

MLK will clinch division 5 this year going ALLLLL the way!

By KSShake

August 30, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Wowweee!!! It’s already hot an heavy! WarD@mnEagle, that’s the way to get the season started. Now THATS a “passionate” and “thorough” defense of your team. Griffin Bear dude you don’t come on here hatin’ halfheartedly on Marist (or Dekalb) with catchin it from someone. I bet next time you’ll have your stuff straight before you hate. Everything WarD@mnEagle stated was dead on accurate. Good luck to Marist, Stephenson, Tucker, SW Dekalb, ML King, McNair, St. Pius, Cedar Grove and Chamblee. I even hope the lesser teams can turn it around (Druid Hills, Lithonia, Miller Grove. ect.) I’m just excited the season is starting! Peace!!!

By DevilFan

August 30, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Just one thing to say about this. JUST DO THE DEVIL WALK!!!!

By 31088

August 30, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Todd,

Thanks for responding to comments today.

Why no love for WRHS? Maxie has WR picked to best Camden County Saturday, but CC is ranked #8. You know WR laid the wood to ‘em 27-7 last year, right?

Next - Congrats to NS-WR for a great year last year, but you guys need to save the smack talking until you move to AAAAA. Seriously, your schedule is full of powder puff games. How could anyone argue otherwise:

WR SCHEDULE: Camden County Northside Central Gwinnett Beach Houston County Valdosta Coffee Tift County Colquitt County Lowndes

NS-WR SCHEDULE: Houston County Warner Robins North Clayton Jones County Dutchtown Stockbridge Baldwin Upson-Lee Westside-Macon

Move up and play with the big boys, Conrad!

GO DEMONS!!

By tracman

August 30, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Hey 31088—-I agree, Warner Robins has a tougher schedule. But does that really matter? When Northside kicks your butts again in a couple of weeks, case closed. And Roswell better than Northside? Not according to Max Preps, Sports Illustrated, PrepNation, etc….

By Hassan

August 30, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

whats up with cedar grove

By NSHS FAN

August 30, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Sounds like a Demon Fan to say their cross town rivals, NSHS plays, ” A Powder Puff Schedule”. You guys went and recruited 200 (Including 25 football players) out of zone students so as to move up from 4A to 5A, “Just” to get away from playing NSHS. The GHSA didn’t buy into your plan. So, as last year, you got a city-wide a*# kicking coming from NSHS on 7 Sept. 07. We will put powder up you butts!

By 31088

August 30, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

tracman,

I knew someone from the peanut gallery would say something like that, thanks for stepping up! ;)

Seriously, no doubt NS-WR is a good team. But REGARDLESS of the outcome of WRHS vs NS-WR, it’s kind of silly to heap all this praise on a AAAA team with such a soft schedule. At least WRHS mans up and plays in the big leagues where success is NOT guaranteed.

No one can say with any certainty that Northside would have gone undefeated in AAAAA last year. It fact, it’s a lot more likely they would have lost a game, maybe two.

I guess we’ll never know so long as Conrad elects to stay in the kiddie pool.

GO DEMONS :P

By 31088

August 30, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

NSHS Fan,

WRHS moved up to 5A to get away from NS-WR? Is that what you guys tell each other when you circle jerk at the band booster meetings? That’s hilarious.

You may get us this year. We’ll see in a week, but until then:

Series Record: 32-17

Choke on it. :)

By tracman

August 30, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

31088—-When the truth hurts, losers always resort to name calling. Your jealousy over the Northside success over your beloved Demons is obvious. NHS plays their region schedule, just like you guys do. Head-to-Head competition is the real indicator of a team’s strength. And you and I both know what will happen when the Eagles and Demons meet next week. Northside by at least three touchdowns. Read it and weep.

By 31088

August 30, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

trac,

Losers? 32-17 series record. State Championships 4-1. I’m happy for your success, even pulled for you over Marist. You guys deserved one. So no jealousy here. Really.

BUT

This isn’t about WRHS. This is about NS-WR playing a schedule so soft that it makes Charmin look tough.

You said “NHS plays their region schedule, just like you guys do.”

EXACTLY MY POINT.

You’re now using your powder puff schedule as a crutch… “We’re just playing the region we’re assigned to”…pulleeeeeeeze. Man up already & move up. It’s pretty obvious Conrad and Company is too scared to move up to 5A, because you guys know what playing football against teams your own size week after week would do to your first little taste of success.

You guys are too funny… its just like the kid in high school who thought he was tough because he beat the crap out of junior high kids.

I know it’s tough being a Northside fan, all these years of mediocrity, your success every season measured by a single game. Your only chance for recognition coming as a spoiler for the superior team to the south.

Could you imagine being a NS-WR and and Tech fan? Man, that would suck.

So anyway, enjoy it while it lasts, you guys deserve some success, and hopefully you’ll eventually get tired of pickin’ on the little kids and move up to the big boy pool.

Rivalry aside, last year would have been MUCH closer if the WRHS staff would have: 1) gotten a little more creative than running it up the middle play after play 2) shut down that little out pattern you guys wore us out with

If we our staff can’t do a better job making those adjustments, we don’t deserve to win.

By tracman

August 30, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

31088,

Correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe your region classification is determined by the number of students enrolled at the school, not the Head Coach. You do play in the toughest region, no doubt. Your 4 losses last year (including Northside) proves that. I have no doubt that if Northside were in your region, they would have some closer games. But to say you are sure they would have lost a game or two is pure speculation. Personally, I would love to see the Eagles in your region. Hopefully that will happen next year.

Also, wouldn’t it be great to see another national champion team from Warner Robins? I remember your 1976 team and was certainly proud of them. Maybe your side of town can get behind the Eagles as the strive for that this year. They are certainly the best in Georgia, Roswell included.

By 31088

August 30, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

trac,

I don’t know the exact details, but I know for a fact that at least once in the past couple of years both WRHS and NS-WR were close enough to the threshold that they were given the choice to play up to 5A or stay in 4A. The story goes that Conrad chose to stay in 4A to maximize his chances for a state title before he retired, which makes sense, but if true isn’t really that admirable.

For what it’s worth, I didn’t say NS was sure to lose in 5A, I said it was a lot more likely (scroll up and read it for yourself). So it sounds like we agree.

By the way, lots of WR fans did pull for NS last year, as I said you guys deserve one. WR is a football MECCA and the more state titles we bring home, the better. However I personally don’t believe a team should content for a national title, or be part of any ‘best in the state’ convesation, if they’re not playing in the highest classification. No knock on NS, but it’s just not an apples to apples comparison. Which is exactly why I supported WRHS moving up to 5A, even if we don’t have the talent pool to compete as effectively these days.

By Truth

August 30, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

MLK is in Region 2 not 5. Duh!

By just sayin

August 30, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about everybody else but Anyone not in region 6 (ONLY 4A) does not have a tough schedule. there is no way you can tell me that it is not the best region in highschool football in GA. out of the 12 teams, only 4 make the playoffs, but like last year a freakin 5-5 team made it in when tucker at 7-3 (6-AAAA) didn’t. THATS BULL! i say we take away spots from the smaller conference and make at large spots. In other regions you maybe have 2 or 3 tough must win games. IN 6-AAAA you have to win every game to assure yourself a spot. last year tucker went 7-3 and bet they could have made it to at least the second round, but they did not even make the playoffs? THEY BEAT MARIST?!?!?!?! MARSIST=in state champ. game?!?!?! Another note St. PIus?!?!? coach standard has restored the legacy there and i have a feeling we won’t see the end of pius for a while.LIke last year. Pius lost to NORTHSIDE WARNER ROBINS!!! by 3!!!!!!!!! And they were 3rd in 6AAAA.

Do Don’t be ridiculous. if you want to see competition, watch 6AAAA. At least 1 6AAAA team wil be in the SHIP!! Tucker, Mays, SW Dekalb, Pius, Marist, Athletes out the ying yang-Cedar Grove, super talented Washington, and up and coming north springs, lakeside, miller grove, and columbia.

Does anybody want to trade schedules with 1 of these teams… didn’t think so…

peace.

By just sayin

August 30, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about everybody else but Anyone not in region 6 (ONLY 4A) does not have a tough schedule. there is no way you can tell me that it is not the best region in highschool football in GA. out of the 12 teams, only 4 make the playoffs, but like last year a freakin 5-5 team made it in when tucker at 7-3 (6-AAAA) didn’t. THATS BULL! i say we take away spots from the smaller conference and make at large spots. In other regions you maybe have 2 or 3 tough must win games. IN 6-AAAA you have to win every game to assure yourself a spot. last year tucker went 7-3 and bet they could have made it to at least the second round, but they did not even make the playoffs? THEY BEAT MARIST?!?!?!?! MARSIST=in state champ. game?!?!?! Another note St. PIus?!?!? coach standard has restored the legacy there and i have a feeling we won’t see the end of pius for a while.LIke last year. Pius lost to NORTHSIDE WARNER ROBINS!!! by 3!!!!!!!!! And they were 3rd in 6AAAA.

Do Don’t be ridiculous. if you want to see competition, watch 6AAAA. At least 1 6AAAA team wil be in the SHIP!! Tucker, Mays, SW Dekalb, Pius, Marist, Athletes out the ying yang-Cedar Grove, super talented Washington, and up and coming north springs, lakeside, miller grove, and columbia.

Does anybody want to trade schedules with 1 of these teams… didn’t think so…

peace.

By WRHS85

August 30, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

I am a WRHS fan, think they play in the toughest region in the state. But, I think NS WR is the best team in the state barnone! I watch these guys play often, they will not be beat this season.

By MaristDad

August 30, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

A few comments/clarifications from a Marist player’s dad: 1)Northside WR is a top 20 team in the COUNTRY! (ESPN agrees) 2) Marist DOES NOT recruit; doesn’t have to. It offers the best combo of academics and athletics in the States. BTW, the athletes MUST perform academically or they’re out. 3) Why has there been little comment about Jonathan Davis? He flunks out of Pius and magically ends up at Tucker. Also, he’s either 18 or 19; he should be good! And all the AJC mentions is that he’s an outstanding, upcoming junior. Ask the Pius players if they miss him and most will say “h%#* no.”

Go War Eagels!

By trojanboy

August 30, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

hoco i agree we do play the hardest region in the state but the region that maks me mad is camdens region who do they play we playe two of thier teams last year spanked them both and beat one 60-0 well i think that northside wr is the best team in the state and if yall wanna know what i think its should have been peachtree ridge vs. tift county not roswell anyways holla

By ROSWELLHORNETS

August 30, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

While the championship game last year between Roswell and PTR did end in a tie, that does not make Roswell any less of a team. We will own this year. Our school has more spirit and talent than any other team in the state. ROSWELL IS NUMBER 1.

By Citi slicker

August 31, 2007 1:28 AM | Link to this

in dekalb/atlanta every game counts just like college football i love region 6 4a every game is tuff and is the baby sec.how about them mcnair mustangs from 1804 bouldercrest road he has have to havve the hardest schedule in the state there 1st 4 game are against teams from a higher classification that made the playoffs and 3 are ranked. this shoul prepare them to make a deep run in the state and finally get some respect.good luck 2 all atlanta/s.fulton/dekalbteams.

By David

August 31, 2007 8:22 AM | Link to this

Looking at AA top 10 teams and Calhoun is #5 is an understatement. Adam Urbano is a Senior and should have a great year, Calhoun’s offense should be the best they have been from last year’s squad. Although Buford as the #1 team is a good pick watch for these teams to be in the Final Four in the Georgia Dome.

By dallas

August 31, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

i havent read anything about east paulding, they ripped up AAAA football last year and this weekend they take on paulding county in the battle of dallas

By fosterjoiner

August 31, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Where is a loaded Wheeler football team. They have one of the most talented offenses in the state of Georgia and a very talented defense. Remember they beat Roswell last season and returns most of the offense which beat Roswell 14-3. Watch for Corey Towers. He is probably the top running back in Atlanta area.

By TechMan

August 31, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Good pick - Roswell deserves to be #1. I pick the Georgia Force to win the homeschool division but look out for the North Georgia Falcons.

By Demon Fan

August 31, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

I’m a WRHS graduate, and as bad as I hate to say it, NHS is the best team in the state. Regardless, of whom they play. They beat WRHS and HCHS last year. Clearly, WRHS and HCHS didn’t pull it together until the end of the season, but a loss is a loss.

By Demetrio

August 31, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

mmm hmmm, now come the Carver Tigers to start down the road to glory. And this year the hillbillies from LaGrange ain’t gonna have anything to sit down on cause it will be flat wore off them.

Thus says Demetrio!

By 31093

August 31, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

Northside 30 and Houston County 0 at halftime.

By DemonFan

September 2, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I watched my beloved Demons get it handed to them on a platter last night. However, I think I had the chance to see the best QB in the state last night. Roswell’s Taliaferro (sp?) is the truth. He placed the ball square in the receiver’s chests. I could hear the ball thump their pads. It was a treat.

By 31088

September 2, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

If you don’t play in the highest classification, you don’t deserve to be called the best team in anything other than your classification. Period. No knock on Northside, but if they want to be the best team in the state, they should move up to 5A then they can claim that title.

Apart from that, WRHS isn’t looking good. 25 yards of total offense against Camden Co? Oh my. Next week is going to be ugly.