AJC > Sports > Highschools > Blog > Archives > 2007 > September > 10 > Entry

Brookwood, Dacula, Collins Hill 0-2-and done?

Three of Gwinnett’s perennial playoff contenders—Brookwood, Dacula and Collins Hill—sit at 0-2. Which one will respond to the adversity and finish with the best record?

Dacula: Out of the three teams, I’m most surprised that the Falcons are winless. I knew there were issues at quarterback, but I figured the defense, offensive line and a solid group of running backs would be enough to at least avoid an 0-2 start.

That hasn’t been the case. In fact, first-year starting quarterback Taylor Smith, at least statistically, has been the least of coach Kevin Maloof’s worries. Smith is completing 58 percent of his passes and is averaging 23.6 yards per completion. He has thrown two interceptions, though.

Turnovers have been the biggest culprit in the Falcons’ tough start. They’ve lost five fumbles.

But even when they do hold onto the ball, the running game has struggled. The Falcons are averaging just over two yards a carry.

Still, the Falcons play in a relatively weak region (8-AAAA) and should be able to make the playoffs for a fourth consecutive season.

Final Record Prediction: 6-5

Brookwood: Defense was supposed to be the biggest issue about the Broncos. But it’s been special teams that have killed Brookwood in getting off to its second consecutive 0-2 start.

Against No. 1 Roswell, it was a missed field goal. Against North Gwinnett, the Broncos allowed an amazing four kicks to be blocked.

If Brookwood can get past an improved Valdosta squad , the Broncos should find themselves at 5-2 heading into a difficult closing stretch against Grayson, Central Gwinnett and Parkview.

Final Record Prediction: 5-6

Collins Hill: The Eagles’ offense must get going quickly or they could miss the playoffs for the first time in four years.

In a 37-0 loss to Valdosta, Collins Hill had negative yards rushing and only 51 yards of total offense. Quarterback Brent McDonald led the Eagles in rushing with only 10 yards.

It was only the second shutout loss of coach Larry Sherrill’s six-year tenure.

With all three of Region 7’s juggernauts—Peachtree Ridge, North Gwinnett and Norcross—left on the schedule, Sept. 21’s home game against improving Mill Creek could prove large, if Collins Hill wants to reach the postseason.

Final Record Prediction: 6-5

Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: David Purdum

Comments

By Michael

September 10, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Valdosta beat the 5th best team in Utah, Jordan High (who beat the number 1 team Bingham in Utah this past weekend), on their opening weekend. This is a much improved Valdosta team this year and they will test Brookwood’s young and inexperienced defense this Friday. But I feel that Brookwood will give Valdosta a good game on thier home turf. Brookwood played good games against the ranked teams the last two weeks. Good Luck to all. Yah, this is what High School Football is all about.

By Are you kidding me!

September 12, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Michael,

Are you kidding me! The 5th best team in Utah is equal to what the 30th or 50th best team in Georgia?

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