Prep Zone

By The Monk

October 8, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

I’m a Marist supporter and I don’t have a problem with your suggestion that NWR may face a more talented team in the playoffs this year than last. In fact, I would be hard pressed to pick a NWR/Tucker matchup (no offense to TCC, just haven’t seen them play - if they are better than Tucker, then they are pretty good). I would rank NWR as a bigger more powerful team, but I don’t think they have as many skill players as Tucker. So - that would make a very, very interesting matchup.

By Too early to call it

October 8, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

I’m a big fan of NWR but that ‘86 Valdosta team was nasty.

By TCCHS

October 8, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

When NWR wins 5 state championships in 6 years, then they can talk about being one of the state’s all time greats. And maybe a Heisman Trophy winner as well.

By tracman

October 8, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Nice article Todd. Even though I am a grad and big supporter, I’m not ready to put this team in with the likes of 1976 Warner Robins and 1971 Valdosta. I saw both of those teams play and both were unbelievable. I have never seen a high school defense as good as the one led by Ron Simmons in 1976. I still remember how he and his teammates dominated Griffin in the state title game. I hope this NHS Eagle team continues to improve and when they do face tough competition (Westside-Macon, Baldwin) can prove they belong in this discussion. They would also have to roll over their playoff opponents with double-digit victories.

By Granger Fan

October 8, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

How could you leave off the 1991 USA Today National Champion LaGrange team. Also, the 2004 Tray Blackmon led Lagrange team won every game by double digits and could have beaten anybody that year

By jc

October 8, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Who was the coach for the 1986 Valdosta team? Was it Woodstock’s Mike O’Bryan?

By Frank Childs

October 8, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

NSWR is always a tough opponent. Region 4-AAAA is stacked with talent. I know we are not mentioned much by Gasport.com radio, but that another issue entirely. Baldwin defeated Westside-Macon Thursday night in a dog fight-I am sure Saturday night @ NSWR will be the same. Our school loves competion not commentary.

By Who Cares

October 8, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

you are having a debate on a topic that can not be answered. so who really cares except some old fat guys sitting in a south georgia barber shop reliving their youth? each time a team has a good run they become ‘the greatest’. i.e parkview, marist, wr, valdosta, brookwood. it happens every few years and has not solved anything. football is a sport that applies the “what have you done for me lately” rule. stop being jealous of the current team’s success. wake-up and enjoy the current season and get a life.

By AlbanyViking

October 8, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Nick Hyder was the coach of the ‘86 Cats. They beat us in the winnersville classic so bad, it was not pretty.

By Nick Barkley

October 8, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

In Order For NWR To Become One Of The All-Time Greats, They Gotta Be Consistent In Winning State Championships…Upson Lee vs. Northside Warner Robins Will Be Next Friday At Mathews Field….Im A Upson Lee Fan….People Dont Respect Us…We Are 5-1…People Gone Respect Us This Year…….

By allcrimson

October 8, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

It’s Great To Be A Northside Eagle!

and it’s nice to get some print from the AJC as well. Northside will win all 15 again, when we are done lets revisit this topic at that time.

ac

By NSHS FAN

October 8, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

I believe much of the doubt about NSWR strenght and greatness will be answered on 12 Oct. 07. NSWR plays Baldwin County an underfeated and always tough foe. They will win by at least 2-touchdowns over BC. BC doesn’t have Darius Marshall and three other Div 1 players from last year when NSWR beat them on their home field. BC went out and got a QB from Hiram HS but it want work. NSWR 35 BC 10.

By Mike

October 8, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

I hate to ruin everyone’s day but Tucker could on first down the entire game and would still beat NSWR with a defensive score. Tucker is three TDs better than NSWR.

By Mike

October 8, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

I hate to ruin everyone’s day but Tucker could punt on first down all game long and would still beat NSWR with a defensive score. Tucker is 3 TDs better than NSWR.

By Mike

October 8, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

I hate to ruin everyone’s day but Tucker could punt on first down all game long and would still beat NSWR with a defensive score. Tucker is 3 TDs better than NSWR.

By FanMan

October 8, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

One team you have to consider is the 2003 Buford Wolves. That year was their 3rd straight year to win a state championship, and it was the best team they had. I believe their closest game was a 12 point win. They won the state championship game by about 30. They should be definitely be considered for this list.

By Northside85

October 8, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the article on Northside. It’s great to see us get recognition from AJC. I too feel that we will accomplish the 30-0 goal for 2007. As for the doubters, I have but this to say, ZERO or Seven is all your team will get against the Northside Eagles. Bring your team to visit. The woodshed is now open.

By justinfh88

October 8, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

FAN MAN. YOU REALIZE THAT THEY PLAYED NO ONE THAT YEAR

By Buford Over NSWR

October 8, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Buford would take NSWR if they played and make it look easy.

By NSHS FAN

October 8, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Ref: BY Mike, You are crazy! Tucker had to go out and recruit St. Pius’ outstanding RB. He is the reason Tucker is rated as high as they are. You should raise your own boys instead of stealing them from other teams. I am going to remember you “IF” Tucker makes it to the dome. NSWR will slaughter Tucker! Why? because every starter on Tucker wants to be “The” star player so they will self destruct.

By Dexter Knox

October 8, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Can’t believe you are so crazy and biased to the point that you would only rank one south Georgia team in AAAAA!

By Big Fan of 4A

October 8, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Hey, NSHS FAN—Instead of the assumptions you’re making about the rest of 4A, how about some facts half way through the season: Yes, NSWR is 6-0 now, chalking up their FIRST win this season against another team with a WINNING record…along the way, against the 4 other teams with LOSING records and the one at .500, they’ve allowed 23 points…On the other hand, there’s Tucker, which has already SHUT OUT 5 teams, including 4 teams with WINNING records. Tucker’s got a big game on Friday vs Mays, and you’ve got few breathers left on your schedule (believe you’ve got quite a few left against teams with winning records)…So, may the best TEAM win!

By TigerFan

October 8, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Can Fayette Co. get some love from the AJC? We are 5-0 and have a better record than three teams in your top ten. The Coaches Poll has us at #9 in AAAA, but what do coaches know I mean they are the experts!

By slalom1

October 8, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

To: Todd Holcomb: You must have done this just to get me fired up AGAIN! Come on , Todd. The 1991 Grangers were ranked #1 in the nation, and…played what was possibly the toughest schedule in Georgia high school history,(which by the way included the top 2 teams in region 1AAAA, which is now region 1AAAAA.) In addition, the 1991 season marked the first time in history where 2 nationally ranked Top 10 teams,(according to USA Today, and ESPN) played each other in head to head competition. LaGrange was ranked #8 and Valdosta #1. Grangers won. If this hypothetical listing of the “15 greatest teams” was intended to raise my blood pressure. You have succeeded.

By slalom1

October 8, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

And Todd… 2005 Lowndes?! Have you lost your mind? In 2005, Lowndes took a 28-7 butt kicking from Ware County,(a AAAA school). As far as “the greatest teams ever” are concerned, any team with one loss should automatically be excluded from the list. Since 1980, how many teams from Georgia have finished the season ranked #1 in the nation by USA Today and ESPN? I am waiting for your answer. PLEASE share.

By slalom1

October 8, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

I correct myself again…The list includes your Top 10, not Top 15 “all time greatest teams”.

By Aj

October 8, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Ref:2 Mike You really think Tucker is 3TDs better then NSWR, come on be for real. If Tucker is 3 TDs better, we should be talking about Tucker not NSWR,right. Tucker is good but not that good.

By Yo

October 8, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

What constitutes the greatest team ever? A won/loss record? The team playing the best ball at the end of a given season ever in history despite won/loss records? Is it possible that the greatest team in the state of Ga. did not ever win a state championship? (See Northside Warner Robins 1999-Until they were upset pretty much everybodies unbeatable team for the ages). Is the greatest team based off of sending most players to Division 1 schools or the pros? Like some people like to rank great teams. Does the greatest team ever take into account the competition that the teams had to play? Does the greatest team ever consider the new rules regarding running up the scores? Does the greatest team ever allow us to get into a coaches head as to when he brings in the 2nd and 3rd strings once the score gets ran up maybe allowing a team that might not have scored otherwise to now score? Are we going to base it off of some National poll? Does the greatest team ever take into account injuries a team may have sustained at some point in the season thereby causing a defeat prior to them later winning the state championship? Is a team that is so overloaded with talent that they can’t help but win a state championship yet barely does really a great team? Or is the team that overacheives to the best of their abilities a great team? Now that kids are faster and stronger than 20 yrs ago are we taking that into consideration? Now that the level of competition has gone up compared to the past(due to many more very good programs that are following the Valdosta program way of doing things) do we penalize a team for having to play this much higher level of competition? Are we serious for even trying to go there with this debate?

By Eaglefan

October 8, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

To Big fan of 4a:If you consider Baldwin,Upson-Lee and Westside just a few breathers,then you’re in for a rude awakening come playoff time.I gotta say you’re the first to question Nside-WR strength of schedule.As fire Marshal Bill would say “LET ME SHOW YOU SOMETHIN”.Since the start of the 2004 season.NSWR has a 45-3 win/loss record(playoffs included)with 2 losses to Stateboro and 1 loss to,I hate to say it, WR-Demons.who by he way won it all that year,as did Statesboro.With victories (off the top of my head) over WR(3)Hoco(4)Westside-Macon(4)Baldwin(3)Upson-Lee (3)Peach co. (2)Griffin,Rome,TCC,Habersham-cent,St. Pius,Marist and a few others.Its foolish to even consider we play we play weaker opponents.Im a hugh NSWR fan,but im not foolish enough to say we can’t be beat.either one of our next 3 opponents are capable of doing it.True Hoco having a truely a down year,Joco and Dutchtown- no comment.Stockbridge has a better team than our 34-3 thumping indicates.they’ve got a few on their defense that will take your head off.#53 for Stockbridge, you’re a monster.we’ll be watching you on saturdays.So big fan Your team is 5-0.Solely in region play I might add,only thing i can say is Last year at the dome St.Pius showed up ready to play,and they did.this year in that region.Somebody’s gotta win.We’ll see how you Tucker guys hold up when the competition gets a little tougher.Til playoff time big Fan——-.p.s Todd you forgot about the 1994 Waco championship team.they have to be considered in your top 10

By CAMDEN BOY

October 8, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

boy i cant wait to see if northside wr plays tucker game.. that games gonna be the best game of hs football ever..

By Allen

October 8, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

I’m just glad to see that you are talking about someone other than a AAAAA team, but we are talking about dominant teams, and there are NONE in AAAAA. That said, I don’t think that anyone in AAAA will even come close this year. They could even win the AAAAA State Title this year. It looks like the hardest class to figure out is AAA, because it looks like there are 4 or 5 teams that could win it all, LaGrange, Carver,Col., Carrolton, North Hall, and Stephens Co. Of the 5, only 1 has not been tested yet - Carver,Col., but they will soon when they play the Grangers. How do you see that game, and AAA turning out, Todd?

By Amp

October 8, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Think about 1994 Washington Co. team w/ the like of Robert Edwards and Takeo Spikes in the top 5.

By Eugene

October 8, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry NSHS FAN…but its not like Jonathan Davis grew up going to all of the catholic elementary schools growing up. He got recruited by PIUS in the first place. So you could really say that Pius shouldn’t of had him in the first place.

By Todd Holcomb

October 8, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

* Can Fayette Co. get some love from the AJC? We are 5-0 and have a better record than three teams in your top ten. The Coaches Poll has us at #9 in AAAA, but what do coaches know I mean they are the experts!*

Coaches, smoaches. … This is my theory on high school football coaches: During October, they are the busiest people on earth. They have about 10-15 minutes a week to give to ranking teams, so it’s much easier for them to stick an undefeated team in the rankings rather than sort out which one-loss teams might actually be better for having played a tougher schedule. Coaches also don’t pay any attention to what’s going on outside of the teams they have to play. They’re too busy to do that. They don’t have time to analyze who beat whom, so they look at W-L records.

I love to see programs like Fayette County have a breakout season and would be happy if the Tigers went 10-0 and proved me wrong, but I don’t think Fayette is among the 10 most feared teams to play in AAAA, even by coaches, at this point. Hope that changes.

Can’t believe you are so crazy and biased to the point that you would only rank one south Georgia team in AAAAA!

I’ve been meaning to check to see when the last time that’s happened. First off, I think you’re pulling my leg, but for the exercise, I’ll have at it. For simplicity, I think anyone would agree that only three South Georgia teams are worthy of consideration for a ranking at this point. One is Valdosta. Valdosta lost 38-7 (approximately) to Brookwood, a team that I don’t have ranked. Camden County is the other. Camden is likely one of the best 10 teams in AAAAA, but I try to rank teams on performance, not potential, and Camden lost to Chattahoochee, an unranked team, as has no wins to compensate for that. Camden has played one above-average team, and lost, at home. All of the Top 10 teams are either undefeated or have a signature win.

* I’m a Marist supporter and I don’t have a problem with your suggestion that NWR may face a more talented team in the playoffs this year than last.*

I was just trying to stir up the Eagles w/ that comment, although I do think that Tucker and TCC are potentially more threatening than Marist was last season. I thought Marist’s 2006 team was the classic Marist team, w/ very good talent, but not great, and just reached its potential. I had fun watching that team.

* When NWR wins 5 state championships in 6 years, then they can talk about being one of the state’s all time greats. And maybe a Heisman Trophy winner as well. *

Good point, although keep in mind we’re talking about individual teams, not dynasties. That was some run in the ‘90s, though. Even more amazing as time passes.

* Who was the coach for the 1986 Valdosta team?*

Nick Hyder. O’Brien won in 1998.

* you are having a debate on a topic that can not be answered.*

Most debates can’t be answered. That’s what makes a great debate. : )

* Tucker is three TDs better than NSWR.*

Now that’s some good smack talk!

* Buford would take NSWR if they played and make it look easy.*

Even better smack talk.

* One team you have to consider is the 2003 Buford Wolves. That year was their 3rd straight year to win a state championship, and it was the best team they had. I believe their closest game was a 12 point win. They won the state championship game by about 30. They should be definitely be considered for this list.*

Again, like LaGrange in 2004, there’s no question that Buford team was among the best ever for its class. But do you really think Buford could’ve beaten Camden County that year? Well, there was a common opponent that year – Charlton. Camden won 34-7, Buford 31-3. So maybe so! But I think it’s one thing to say that great smaller-class teams can be the best in any class in a given year, but for school in the lower two classes to be among the Top 10 all-time? I kinda doubt it. But if there was one, ’03 Buford, ’94 WaCo and ’82 or ’85 West Rome would be the places I’d start to look.

* How could you leave off the 1991 USA Today National Champion LaGrange team. Also, the 2004 Tray Blackmon led Lagrange team won every game by double digits and could have beaten anybody that year.*

OK, it’s about to hit the fan because somebody (Slalom!) ain’t gonna like this.

The ’04 team was certainly one of the best for its classification all-time, arguably THE best, but not sure I’d put it among the 10 best in any class.

As for 1991, and boy I hate to say this, as LaGrange fans used to like me, but I’m going to offer that the ’91 Grangers were among the most overrated Georgia teams of the past 20 years. Didn’t they win the title on a FG in the final minutes? Their average victory margin in the state playoffs was just 7 points. If ’91 LaGrange was among the 10 best in Georgia history, wouldn’t ’91 Colquitt County also be in the top 10? (A prominent coach asked me this very question once, but I’m not naming names.)

I think LaGrange won a national title with a typical Georgia state championship team, no better than ’93 Dunwoody or ’94 Colquitt.

OK, let me go get my helmet.

By hsref

October 8, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Some people ask what makes a great team. This is my opinion. A great team is one that is dominate in every game they play. It should not matter where the players go and do after the season. It matter what that high school team did then. For an example using Todd’s #1 team which I would agree with 1971 Valdosta team. They scored over 40 points 11 out of 13 games. The lowest total they scored 28. They won every game by atleast 21 points. They scary thing is the straters only played the 1st half most of the time. They averaged a point every 60 seconds. Fyi I did get some of this info from the valdostawildcats website.

By hsref

October 8, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

I did leave one thing out. The average half time score in the Valdosta playoff games was 30-4 they also put up 62 points in the championship game which is still a record.

By Buford over NSWR

October 8, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

NSWR should not be looking to 5A and thinking they could compete but instead looking to 2A and thank God they don’t play Buford. Boy would that be embarassing for NSWR because Buford could handle them.

By Todd Holcomb

October 8, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

What constitutes the greatest team ever?

All that stuff you listed, Yo. I put it all in a computer.

Your questions are good ones, which means only that there is no answer to the question. Personally, I don’t think the ‘71 Valdosta team would beat the top teams of today because the game has advanced (although I really don’t feel like going down that road in detail).

But my criteria would be dominance in their era. I think ‘71 Valdosta was the most dominant of the past 40 years. From that objective measure, it’s hard to argue w/ that since no team came within 21 points of the ‘71 Cats.

Of the 5, only 1 has not been tested yet - Carver,Col., but they will soon when they play the Grangers. How do you see that game, and AAA turning out, Todd?

I haven’t seen Carver or LaGrange this season, but I’d put my faith on defense and go with LaGrange. I’m sure Carver’s defense is excellent as well, but as long as a traditional power is good, I think it’s better to bet on that team. (Plus, I need to win back some LaGrange fans here.)

Actually, Carver is a team that I’d most want to see that I haven’t. Just because I get a lot of e-mail and comments about the QB and other weapons they apparently have.

By Let South GA Dream

October 8, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

I have never seen an area that lived so much in the past as south Georgia. Sorry folks but Valdosta will never rise again. Lowndes has pulled much of your talent and the other south Georgia towns as well are not going to let you intice their players to come over like was done in the 60s and 70s. Also with an unusal name like Valdosta folks are going to have heard of you. I’ve also heard of Buck Snort, TN but not because they play football there either.

By hsref

October 8, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

Hey Todd,

Why do you have Clinch co. ranked so high? I know their 2 loses have come to higher class teams, but they just got by bacon co which is not a good team by any means.

By Todd Holcomb

October 8, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Think about 1994 Washington Co. team w/ the like of Robert Edwards and Takeo Spikes in the top 5.

I made mention of ‘94 WaCo earlier. Among teams in the bottom two classes through history, there are 5 that truly stand out — ‘77 East Rome, ‘82 West Rome, ‘85 West Rome, ‘94 WaCo and ‘03 Buford. Of those, I’d pick WaCo.

One point, though: Robert Edwards wasn’t on the ‘94 team.

They (‘71 Valdosta) won every game by atleast 21 points. They scary thing is the straters only played the 1st half most of the time.

Interesting stat: Northside’s Tijuan Green has scored 17 TDs this season in 6 games — all 17 in the first half. I wonder what the record is for first-half touchdowns.

By CLTN

October 8, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

Todd, what does Carrollton have to do to go higher this year in your rankings? In most power rankings, Carrollton is ranked number one mostly due to strength of schedule. All 5 of the teams Carrollton has faced have a winning record. This includes a AAAA and AAAAA school. All 5 teams were undefeated when facing Carrollton. All but one have not lost to anyone except Carrollton.

Last Friday we beat a very good Cass team with the number one RB in the state 42-7. What is your reasoning?

By BLUE&MAIZE

October 8, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

GOOD CALL ON SOUTHWEST ATLANTA A.K.A MAYS.THAT 1973 TEAM FINISH 2ND IN NATION THAT YEAR.DO YOU KNOW FINISH 1ST.

By Todd Holcomb

October 8, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

**Todd, what does Carrollton have to do to go higher this year in your rankings? In most power rankings, Carrollton is ranked number one mostly due to strength of schedule. All 5 of the teams Carrollton has faced have a winning record. This includes a AAAA and AAAAA school. All 5 teams were undefeated when facing Carrollton. All but one have not lost to anyone except Carrollton.

Last Friday we beat a very good Cass team with the number one RB in the state 42-7. What is your reasoning?**

Carrollton has been great, but consider that #1 LaGrange has not allowed a point, and #2 Carver is a returning Final Four team that avenged its semifinal loss decisively against Shaw this season. Nobody has come within 20 points of Carver or LaGrange.

Carrollton might well be just as good, but I can’t justify dropping Carver or LaGrange given their early domination.

By Cro25

October 8, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

What is your view of the single A race. Can’t believe Washaun Ealey of ECI hasn’t gotten any press for his 303 yard, 7 TD performance on Friday night. Where is the love?

By Todd Holcomb

October 8, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Why do you have Clinch co. ranked so high? I know their 2 loses have come to higher class teams, but they just got by bacon co which is not a good team by any means.

Sorry, I overlooked your post, ref.

I definitely studied the idea of dropping Clinch after the narrow win last week, and Clinch is a team with no good wins. But Clinch also had 2 losses in 2006 at this point and was the state runner-up, so I think faith and history are what’s holding Clinch up at this point.

But the more I look at it, the more I’d have to agree that Clinch has done nothing this season to earn that spot.

By Todd Holcomb

October 8, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

What is your view of the single A race. Can’t believe Washaun Ealey of ECI hasn’t gotten any press for his 303 yard, 7 TD performance on Friday night. Where is the love?

I believe that Darryl Maxie had a short article about Ealey on Sunday. Pretty remarkable.

I’m not going to pretend that I’ve seen ECI or any of the top Class A teams yet, but I talked to a lot of coaches, and one Top 10 coach said of ECI, “That’s the team you don’t want to play.”

I think the question is whether the staff can turn last year’s collapse into a positive, but ECI is mostly clearly viewed as a threat.

I also was glad to see Wilcox bomb Irwin if only to validate the faith I put in Wilcox by putting the Patriots No. 1 instead of Lincoln County.

In the end, I think Class A will be won by South Georgia or Lincoln County. But I like those top three the most — Wilcox, ECI, Lincoln.

By Todd Holcomb

October 8, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

GOOD CALL ON SOUTHWEST ATLANTA A.K.A MAYS.THAT 1973 TEAM FINISH 2ND IN NATION THAT YEAR.DO YOU KNOW FINISH 1ST.

Don’t know who was first. I do know that Thomasville was No. 1 nationally the next year.

One reason I put SWA in there was because I did a similar ranking about 5 years ago, and I got a lot of angry response that Southwest was left off that list!

I didn’t see that SW Atlanta team, but I’ve talked with Coach Sparks a few times, and Sparks felt the team was almost impossible to stop on 3rd down because Flanagan could run or throw, and SW had 2 or 3 receivers who just couldn’t be covered, so getting 7-10 yards when needed was almost routing.

Of course, Reggie Wilkes, a lineman, played several years in the NFL.

SW Atlanta had a great run in the ’70s in football and basketball. Might’ve won a track & field state title, as well.

By robinsfootballfan

October 8, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Would have loved to see 1971 Valdosta Wildcats against the 1976 Warner Robins Demon team.Witnessed both and boy what a dogfight that would of been.1976 WRHS Middle linebacker Ron Simmons once held the college bench press record while at Florida State of 525+.Could bench 425+ while in high school and ran a 4.5 40 yd dash.Also on the same team James Brooks who once held the NFL All purpose yardage total and could run a 4.3 40 yd dash in high school.Thru 3 years at WRHS averaged 10 yds every touch w/approximately 5000yds on 500 carries.Blocking for James was Jimmy Womack who was later fullback/lead blocker at the Univ of Ga for you guessed it Hershel Walker.Jimmy was a ground pounder that finished his HS carrier w/2900 yds rushing behind James Brooks.Todd was it you that said todays players are bigger and faster? The reason for my blog(got off track)I am a WRHS football fan first and a NSWR fan second.I have attended most of NSWR games the last 2 yrs and can tell you with certainty,they could not hang with the 1976 Demon team.The 1976 team had to much speed and were hungry.They had one close game in 1976 and after getting their heads back on straight won the following week 90-0 against Jordan of Columbus.In the play-offs(3 games) won by a combined score of 132-7. Back on track,I believe NSWR will answer all calls from AAAA play-off contenders this year with relative ease.

By slalom1

October 8, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Todd, You have got me going. How many of your best “Top 10” teams since the “integration era” not only won state titles in Georgia’s top classification, but also went undefeated, and were declared NATIONAL champions by ESPN and USA Today? I do not know the answer pertaining to “how many”. However, I can name one…LaGrange High School, (who was for reasons unknown, left out of your “Greatest Top 10 Teams”. By your line of reasoning, 2005 Lowndes, who lost to AAAA Ware County by a score of 28-7 must have been better than the 2004 Lowndes team, who went undefeated, and finished the season ranked #12 in the nation, according to Rivals.com. affiliate, Schoolsports.com. By the same token, the 2004 LaGrange team, who also went undefeated while winning the AAA state title was nationally ranked #9 by the same entity. This “All Time Greatest Teams” ranking is lacking in both historical perspective and principle.

By kreedham

October 8, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

I’m an old grad from Northside where we had 3 losing seasons and 1 .500 season while I was there so it’s nice to see them do well.

It’s my understanding that Tijuan Green (who you mentioned has 17 1st half TD’s) and the QB Marques Ivory have played very little if any of the 2nd half this season. It that’s the case then their margin of victory could easily have been more. Of course when they play Baldwin and Westside I expect Coach Nix will let them see 2nd half action.

Don’t know anything about Tucker or TCC but am looking forward to NHL playing one or both.

I also noticed former Northside QB and Clemson grad Chansi Stuckey made the NY Jets roster this year.

By Class of '75

October 8, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

I think this Eagle class is Dominate; however I am concerned that our First string does not play enough. When the game is on the line will our endurance be available? Other than that, complacency is a concern as well.

By TCC

October 8, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS THOMAS COUNTY CENTRAL IS A SLEEPING GIANT THAT HAS AWAKEN THEY HAVE A THREE HEADED MONSTER IN THEIR BACK FIELD,AND THEIR TEAM SPEED IS VERY FAST AND THEIR DEFENCE IS VERY SOLID AND QUICK.north side wr IS A GOOD TEAM, BUT DOES NOT PLAY TALENT LIKE THOMAS COUNTY CENTRAL YELLOW JACKETS.TCC IF HEALTHY FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON WILL WIN STATE THIS YEAR.THEY HAVE THE HEART OF A CHAMPION AND WILL PLAY FOUR QUARTERS OF FOOTBALL. north side wr ENJOY IT WHILE YOU CAN

By Balance

October 8, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

There is no dominant team in AAAAA this year but there’s at least a dozen that can handle NSWR without breaking a sweat. Stay on the porch NSWR you’re a good AAAA team but not ready to run with the big dogs.

By yo

October 8, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

Slalom 1…the 2004 and 2005 Lowndes teams were basically the same group of boys. Who in 2 years went through 1AAAAA and the playoffs with a record of 29-1. In fact, as sophomores in 2003 they were the only team to stay on the field with Camden (eventual state champs) and did so twice losing both times by 7 points. Both games all out wars. After winning the 2004 championship they were a little bit to sure of themselves at the beginning of the year in 2005. Despite that, on talent alone, they could go out and whip every one. Usually 1st string out of the game by end of first half (still they were not a good team at this point because they were not playing any where near their potential as a team). Their potential was to be better than the 2004 team. The 2004 team scored every first possession they had the football on offense that year until the state championship game which was the only close game they had that year. So when it came time for Ware they found out that just showing up with a reputation will not always get the job done. From that point on they started returning back to their potential and no one came close after that. A nationally ranked (something so important to you) Brookwood was embarrassed by halftime and the final score was 49-7 but the game was not that close. On that particular night I would say to you that there was no team in the country (or I might argue in the history of Ga.)that would have stayed on the field with the 2005 Vikings. So, if records decide best team then you are right 2004 would have been better at 15-0. If best team is decided by who is best team at the end of the year then the 2005 team would have been the better of the two at 14-1. Lowndes won the 1999 state championship but did not have the best record in AAAAA that year. Does that make them or not make them the best team in AAAAA in 1999? I would say to you that by the end of the year they were the best team in the state but if we are going to base it solely on won loss records then they were not.

By Big Fan of 4A

October 8, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

LOL—Eagle Fan! I’m afraid you can’t read, (or write a clear sentence either!)…What I was commenting on was that your tough schedule is JUST BEGINNING, so to tout your team as number one so far really doesn’t take into account the fact that MOST OF THE TEAMS YOU’VE PLAYED TO DATE THIS YEAR WEREN’T UP TO YOUR LEVEL—ONLY STOCKBRIDGE, WEST-SIDE, UPSON LEE, AND BALDWIN COME CLOSE! And I do believe the TEAMS in the 2007 contest are the ones playing THIS YEAR, not last year or any other year before. In case you haven’t noticed, NO team returns exactly the same from year to year—there are ALL KINDS OF VARIABLES that can change things DRAMATICALLY…LOL!

By slalom1

October 9, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

To: Todd Holcomb I just phoned 911,(only to vent). Todd, In the words of the late Bill Walsh,”Great teams are not great all of the time. But, they are always great when they have to be.”. Look at the schedule of the ‘91 Grangers, and maybe you will see the light. As for the margin of victory in the state play-offs, look at who LHS played: Statesboro(undefeated. Won by 13. Valdosta, undefeated, ranked #1 in the state and nation. Won by 6. McEachern(sp?) won by 7, following a regular season re-match, won by 11. Then Colquit County,(on the road), by 1. Was this team great “all of the time?” NO. But, They were absolutely great when they had to be. It is this criteria that put not only the Grangers, but also the ‘91 Valdosta team in the national spotlight during that magical season. As for the 2004 Granger team, I believe that it was your partner, Daryl Maxie, who stated that should there be a play-off between each of the state’s best, in each classification, his pick would be the Grangers. Rivals.com apparently felt the same, ranking LaGrange #9 and Lowndes #12 nationally during 2004. Apparently national polls are only of significance to the readers, if their team fares well.

By slalom1

October 9, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

To “Yo”: Congrats on another win this past weekend. Regardless of what the “Atlanta” crowd may think, I believe that whoever wins 1AAAAA will most likely win the state AAAAA championship. The 1 AAAAA champ will most likely be Lowndes. Don’t know what it is about south Georgia football. The roster size is not always intimidating. The number of D-1 recruits is usually not overwhelming. But the wins and championships speak for themselves. As for me, I believe it has more to do with the community support than anything else. Granted, great coaching is a necessity. But, given that, there are very few 16 year olds who are willing to sacrifice their social lives from July-November or December, unless they receive praise, appreciation, and recognition for a job well done. The communities of south Georgia, in particular Valdosta, seem to have figured that out. That brings me to the “Texas” scenario. What advantage, in your opinion does a school with an enrollment of 6000 have over Lowndes?(enrollment 2,741) How about Mill Creek,(in Gwinnett County, Ga.), enrollment 4,100? I am interested in hearing your opinion, since so much of our dialogue has involved “school enrollment” You know where I stand. “It is not about enrollment. It is about the roster”.

By slalom1

October 9, 2007 1:29 AM | Link to this

To: Todd Holcomb This classification thing is about to drive me nuts. I have been on both sides of the fence. Recently the “Texas” folks have joined the debate on another blog, contending that their schools with an enrollment of 6,000 or better, would put to shame any of Georgia’s top programs. Yet,when I look at their rosters, I see anywhere from 75-120 kids, comparable in size to the players on the rosters of many of Georgia’s top schools. Okay, BORING…..But, here is my point: In high school, the head coach does not hand pick his players from the student body. If he could do so, a student enrollment of 6,000 would undoubtedly offer up a considerable advantage over a school with an enrollment of 2,000, or 3,000. But, that is NOT the way it works. The roster consists of the players who are willing to make the commitment and sacrifice to play high school ball, period. For some schools, it may be 120 kids. For others, it may be 75, or so. In every case, there are potentially good football players who simply may be more interested in music,wrestling, or their girlfriend, than football. That is where the “enrollment” debate stops. The head coach cannot mandate his roster. It is the high school student who makes the choice to play or not to play, whether he is a member of a student body of 500 or 5,000. Hence, a roster of 75-120 from a student body of any size should be a neutralizing factor in terms of classification.

By Eagle Vet

October 9, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

You have to consider that the 71’ Cats and the 76” Demons only only had to win three playoff games. Todays teams have to win at least five. And due to the 4-AAAA subregion, Northsides has to win six(Win or Go Home)playoff games.

This is for the guy that mentioned how great the 76’ Demon defense lead by Ronald Simmons was. They gave up 26 points to Kendrick (39-26), and 28 points to Hardaway (35-28). Their first two playoff games were cake walks (Richmond Acad. 42-0, and Wayne Co. 56-7).

This 2007 Northside team has not even began to open up their play book. They’re doing just enough to get the win. Nope… You will not see any 90-0 (76’ Demons over Jordan) wins from this Northside team. It’s not that they couldn’t score the points. Coach Nix just has a lot more class than that.

By slalom1

October 9, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

To: Todd Holcomb And, oh by the way, regarding the 1991 Grangers, name me one other state champion from Georgia who not only had to defeat the #1 ranked team in Georgia, but also the #1 ranked team in the USA during their journey to the top. Now, come on Todd. Just name one.

By Eagle Vet

October 9, 2007 1:47 AM | Link to this

The comment was made that the 2007 Northside Eagles may not be playing enough tough competition to be compared to the 1976 Demons. LOL!!! Here is the Demons “TOUGH” 1976 schedule.

1976 WARNER ROBINS DEMONS RECORD (13-0-0)

WR - Columbus 28-0 WR - Carver 63-0 WR - Kendrick 39-26 WR - Baker 48-0 WR - Spencer 54-12 WR - Central 42-0 WR - Dreher SC. 48-0 WR - Hardaway 35-28 WR - Jordan 90-0 WR - Northside 35-13

Playoffs:

WR - Richmond Acad. 42-0 WR - Wayne Co. 56-7 WR - 34-0

Real tough schedule alright.

By slalom1

October 9, 2007 1:55 AM | Link to this

To “Eagle Vet” Well spoken, and well taken.

By Frank

October 9, 2007 3:42 AM | Link to this

I am a 1984 Upson-Lee (formerly R.E. Lee)grad, I think the knights are going to give NWR all they want. I will suggest everyone hold up on the greatest Georgia High School football until they meet.

Frank

By The Expert

October 9, 2007 3:42 AM | Link to this

The 75 Americus team has to be the most unappreciated team in your Top 10. You’re talking about a team that was a very controversial call away from going through the season without a single point being scored against them. Dothan High, the Alabama state runner-up that year scored a phantom touchdown after failing to score on 4 tries on 4th and goal from the 1 yard line. Alabama refs. The average score for the season was 28.5-.571.

By NHS Forever

October 9, 2007 7:50 AM | Link to this

To “Balance”, you can’t be serious!! Twelve teams in AAAAA that could beat Northside? The Eagles already thrashed AAAAA cross-town rivals Warner Robins and Houston County, and could have made it a lot worse by playing the starters longer. Every national publication and even Todd (begrudgingly) ranks Northside the State’s best in any classification, including AAAAA. Get over your jealousy, come down to Warner Robins and watch for yourself. TCC and Tucker supporters, keep the faith. You’re gonna need that and a lot more just to come close.

By bohgey

October 9, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

In response to “Yo” and “Slalom”, I agree with “Yo” whole-heartedly on the 2005 Vikings vs. the 2004 team. I think that loss to Ware gave those boys a good dose of reality in a season that started with so many expectations. I would rather have had that loss to Ware than to Camden or Brookwood later in the year. I can very well remember the feeling that we were unstoppable in the championship game also, “HHH.” I wonder, is it starting to feel like 2005 this year? I always like a good, hard fought loss like we got against Harrison, to fire them up with focus afterwards. “Slalom”, growing up in Valdosta, you start thinking of football the day after your last game, the other sports are there just to get you by. The community supports all the football, (Three high schools, and a college.) Also, our high schools and middle schools still maintain a feeder system with the local pee-wee and junior football leagues. Our community is growing, but small enough to continue such a practice. By the way, try competing and building your own reputation in the state as the “second” high school in town. Remember, Valdosta is the winningest high school football team in the nation, people from Lowndes never get tired of hearing that!

By RL

October 9, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Tucker did not go out and recruit Johnathan Davis. St.Pius basically cast him away. Since he lives in Tucker’s district, its reasonable that he would attend school there!

P.s Tucker was good before he arrived,he’s just the icing on the cake!

By TCC

October 9, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

nhs forever YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN WHO YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT. THOMAS COUNTY CENTRAL IS NOT A TEAM TO TAUNT.THEY ARE WELL COACHED AND LOADED WITH ATHELETES. TRADITION RUNS DEEP IN THOMAS COUNTY FOOTBALL.THEY HAVE BEEN TO THE BIG SHOW 6 TIMES IN THE PAST 15 YEARS AND WON 5. SO TCC COACHES KNOW A THING OR TWO ABOUT WINNING BIG GAMES. SO WHEN YOU TELL TCC SUPPORTERS TO KEEP THE FAITH REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT.

By To NHS Forever

October 9, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Dude, NSWR beating WR and Houston County this year means nothing. WR had 1 first down in their first game speaks to their strength. Houston is getting kicked by everyone. Both programs are very very weak and would struggle to compete with good AA teams this year. AAAA has 3 strong teams this year and no parity which makes those 3 look even stronger. This year parity rules in AAAAA which has at least a dozen teams that can win it all and each could easily dominant NSWR. Think differently if you want but you’re just dreaming again. And as far as high school national rankings; they mean nothing. How can high schools realistically be ranked across the nation? They can’t. I bet you also read the tabloids from the grocery store check-out line.

By NSHS FAN

October 9, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Hey TCC, Are you sick! NSWR doesn’t play the talent TCC does? Let take a look! TCC beat 2A Thomasville, 3A Cairo and 3A Monroe. They beat 5A Meadowcreek who is 0-5. Beat 5A Colquitt County who is 1-5. The only legitimate team you beat is 5A Tift County who is 3-2. Now big guy, what is there to say about your tought schedule? Remember, you threw the first challenge. NSWR Fan never said anything about you schedule. In a match-up—-we did beat your butts last year after hearing that same old south Georgia football toughness bull. The same A** will happen again if you make it to the play offs.

By robinsfootballfan

October 9, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

To eagle vet,that “Tough” 1976 Warner Robins Schedule included 35-13 whipping of NSWR.Do you think the south Ga powerhouses took 1976 off.The play-off teams that 76 WR team beat all went straight through S.Ga(i.e Valdosta) & Atlanta Including the final 34-0 beating of then undefeated Griffin.Granted things have changed in HS football since then but NSWR does not have nowhere near the raw talent pool of the 1976 team.And back in 1976 several of the Columbus School were in play-off contention everyyear.Before you criticize whos playing who,remember to take a look at your own schedule & the schedule NSWR could of had if coach Nix had not elected the “easy route” and chose to stay in AAAA vs Moving up to AAAAA.Come play a full season of 5A football and then we’ll check “your oil”.I’m Still pulling for you not agreeing with you.NSWR will win the state title this year just not a top 15 team of all time.Just like NSWR teams of the past,you think you’re the greatest before you get there.Get ther first then talk.

By robinsfootballfan

October 9, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

To eagle vet,that “Tough” 1976 Warner Robins Schedule included 35-13 whipping of NSWR.Do you think the south Ga powerhouses took 1976 off.The play-off teams that 76 WR team beat all went straight through S.Ga(i.e Valdosta) & Atlanta Including the final 34-0 beating of then undefeated Griffin.Granted things have changed in HS football since then but NSWR does not have nowhere near the raw talent pool of the 1976 team.And back in 1976 several of the Columbus School were in play-off contention everyyear.Before you criticize whos playing who,remember to take a look at your own schedule & the schedule NSWR could of had if coach Nix had not elected the “easy route” and chose to stay in AAAA vs Moving up to AAAAA.Come play a full season of 5A football and then we’ll check “your oil”.I’m Still pulling for you not agreeing with you.NSWR will win the state title this year just not a top 15 team of all time.Just like NSWR teams of the past,you think you’re the greatest before you get there.Get their first then talk.

By Granger By Marriage

October 9, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Now Todd, come on. How can you possibly leave off either the 91 Grangers or the 2004 Grangers from your list? And oh by the way, that clas of Trey Blackmon would have had 4 straight AAA championships if it had not been for the phanthom fair catch no call at Screven County in 2002(All who were at the game remember). Lagrange is about consistency. Slalom 1 can back me up on this one. Go Grangers!!

By Demons Foozball

October 9, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

I’m a lifelong resident of Warner Robins…so i’m fully schooled in middle ga football history. NSHS is clearly a good program…however, they’re only playing in AAAA league, which is clearly not where they should be. Their school is one of the largest in the area. Heres a lil history…Warner Robins Demons had been one of the long time powerhouses for the entire state. In 1992, a new HS was built (Houston County) on the southside of town, which split up the players for WRHS and Hoco. Northside reaped the benefits from this ever since. however, i fully believe they are playing in the wrong league (AAAA) and should be playing 5A ball!!!!!

By NSWR_SUX

October 9, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

Im not a TCC fan nor am i a NSWR fan by far but let me tell you something the teams u named central played, has a history of being top teams and just because a team is 3a or 4a doesnt mean nothing the only diff in class is how many students a school has…All i can say why dont your middle georgia schools come down to south georgia some fridays nites for a good ole friday nites tale kickin and well show you what our 3a cario or monroe which both teams only have 1 loss and monroe was region champs last year with only one loss and that was to central so if you wanna talk trash they both only have one loss this year and thats just to central. MIDDLE GA FOOTBALL means MIDDLE OF THE ROAD FOOTBALL TO BE THE BEST, BEAT THE BEST See you in the Playoffs… Look out for tcc runningback Smiley…

By NHS Forever

October 9, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

To the idiot who used my handle to respond: The reason AAAAA is so balanced this year is because there really isn’t one dominating team in the division. It does appear Lowndes is starting to heat up. But Northside beat Houston Co. much worse than Lowndes did, and took it easy on them in the second half. As for the other good 5A schools (Stephenson, Brookwood, Roswell, etc), enjoy your balance, which is two touchdowns lower than Northside’s level.

As for TCC, you do have a good team. We look forward to playing you. But when a good team plays a great team, the great team usually wins. So keep the faith.

By Chris

October 9, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

You could ask a northside fan and they’d tell you they should have won the last 3 state championships. Thats how arrogant they are.

By TCC

October 9, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

I WAS SAYING THAT nswr DOES NOT PLAY TEAMS ON THEIR SCHEDULE THAT ARE IN COMPARISON TO TCC NOT THE TEAMS THAT TCC PLAYS.THE ONLY TWO TEAMS THAT ARE COMPETETIVE FOR YALL ARE BALDWIN AND TUCKER.nswr WILL NOT SEE A TEAM AS TALENTED AS TCC ALL YEAR UNTIL THEY HAVE TO FACE THEM. YALL DO NOT PLAY AGAINST A BACK FIELD AS GOOD AS TCC. TCC QB RUNS THE VEER TO PERFECTION AND YALL WILL HAVE YALLS HAND FULL WITH THEIR RBS. TCC RB DEBRALE THE TRAIN SMILEY IS THE REAL DEAL 6 FOOT 225LBS RUNS A 4.6 ONE OF THE BEST BACKS IN GA.AND THE DEFENCE IS VERY FAST AND HARD NOSE.DO YOUR HOME WORK RESEARCH THE TCC 1997 TEAM, THIS YEARS TEAM IS JUST AS GOOD OR BETTER.ALSO GO TO GOOGLE AND TYPE IN TCCHS AND CHECK OUT THE VIDEOS.

By Eagle Vet

October 9, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Demon Foozball:

I am also a life long citizen of Warner Robins and I know what the Columbus schools had back in 1976. Kendrick was the best team from Columbus, with Columbus High next. Northsdie was in a rebuilding year after practically the whole 1975 team graduated after losing to Micheal Jolly and the rest of Central. You remember them, they beat the best Demon team ever assembled according to Robert Davis. Yet, Northside as young as they were finished their 76’ season at 7-3. Beating all the Columbus schools except Columbus (8-7) and Kendrick (34-0).

I have not said the 2007 Northside team is better than anyone. I am saying for the people that said Northside has not played any competition equal to that of the 76’ Demons. They are wrong. It’s a lot easier to win only 3 playoff games than to win 6 playoff games. Keep in mind also that today we have a running clock and the scores are not going to be as high against the powder Puffs.

Keep watching this 2007 Northside team, they have not showed everything yet. Also, Northside is playing in the class that they were assigned. Warner Robins won the 2004 AAAA state title with AAAAA numbers, but I don’t see you offering to give it back. Why didn’t Coach Way play up? You are quick to call out Northside when Warner Robins did the exact same thing.

By slalom1

October 9, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

To”Bohgey” Don’t know that I agree with your logic about “an early season loss”, but if that is what it takes to motivate your team, then so be it. As for the Valdosta, Ga. history lesson, you are preaching to the choir. I have been an avid admirer of Valdosta, Ga. for generations. Not only for their legendary high school football programs, but for the people in the community as well. I have stated this fact in many of my posts on this blog. And, yes, what Lowndes has accomplished is quite a success story. My purpose behind all of the “babble” is not to “bash” Lowndes, Valdosta, or any other successful program. But rather to open the eyes of many of the AAAAA fans, who have never taken a serious look at what goes on in the lower classifications. Granted, there are more AAAAA schools with deeper rosters than most non-AAAAA schools. But, among the state’s top AAA and AAAA programs, there is virtually no advantage in roster depth which many AAAAA fans refer to. I recently used the Lowndes vs. LaGrange comparison as an example. The Lowndes student enrollment is listed at 2,741. LaGrange, approx. 1,300. The Lowndes roster: 76, including 25 sophmores. The LaGrange roster: 85, including 27 sophmores. Heights and weights slightly favored LaGrange. The intangible is talent. As coach Bill Parcel said,”I am a much better coach when I have great players”. Both schools are blessed with talented players. This comparison is not to infer that LaGrange is better. It is to point out that among the top teams in AAA, and AAAA, very few AAAAA schools enjoy an advantage in personnel over their AAA and AAAA counterparts. Again, I refer to the TOP programs in AAA and AAAA. During the many years that LaGrange competed in the state’s largest classification, I was just as guilty as many of the AAAAA fans of today, in having never even considered the possibility that there may be some schools in smaller classifications that could more than hold their own against the state’s largest schools. I am glad you printed the brief history lesson on Valdosta, Ga. Not necessarily for me, but for all of the north Georgia transplants whom have flocked to the Atlanta suburbs from “Lord knows where”, and are building high schools larger than many college campuses. Regardless of their student enrollment advantage over Lowndes, Valdosta, and other schools outside of the greater Atlanta area, nothing thrills me more than to see the “little guys” whip the “big guys”. By today’s standards in Georgia, even Lowndes is a “little guy” compared to some of Georgia’s largest schools. But remember…..”It is not about the enrollment, it is about the roster”.

By slalom1

October 9, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

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