Prep Zone

By woody

November 7, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

Fox Sports Pittsburgh shows live High School football regular season games of Western PA teams. That’s how important it is in Pittsburgh.

You guys have trouble getting your college and pro teams on the TV let alone the High Schools.

By joe

November 7, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

Fox Sports Pittsburgh shows live regulare season Hs football games. Dont see that down here.

So no you dont rule!

By Anthony

November 7, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

Georgia high school football is boring. I have yet to see a team from Georgia (Northside Warner Robins, MLK, Stephenson, or any of the Gwinnett teams) that I would compare with some of the top teams from Florida. I watched Northside Warner-Robins against Stockbridge and came away thinking that if Stockbridge had any kind of coaching, the game would have been much closer or they would have beat NS Warner-Robins. Stockbridge utilized at the most, 18 players while NS Warner-Robins seemed to use everyone. Who could compete with Miami Northwestern, Lakeland, Booker T. Washington, Kissimmee Osceola, or some of the second tier schools in Florida. Speed kills, that’s why everyone raids the State of Florida. Weather is a large factor as to why we are better than Georgia in football. Kids in Florida play year round because the whether allows them to do so. In Miami, there is a little league team every 5 miles or so. Track season is phenominal and then comes Spring Football Practice. Then comes the hot days of summer. Can’t get any better than that. We are born and raised to eat, sleep, play, and you know what; football all day every day.

By Joe Bryant

November 7, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

I doubt the Pittsburgh teams are any good….except for those Steelers!!!

By Mr.

November 7, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

The reason most games are not on t.v. is because everybodys at the games thats how important it is for georgians and besides you said only one side of the state is shown whats wrong with the south, east, and north PA must not have athletes like all of the DIRTY SOUTH!!!

By Doc

November 7, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

If you like pittsburg football so much, MOVE BACK. If you could figure out how to use your tv remote you could find great Georgia football on every friday night on CSS. High school football in Georgia Rules.

By Skydawg

November 7, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

One thing that you forgot to mention is per capita rate of Division 1 players from the state of GA. When taking into account the populations of Texas, Florida and California; Georgia hands down places the most players in Division 1 and NFL on a per capita rate. That speaks volumes to the talent level and quality of high school football in the state of GA.

By Tha South

November 7, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

up north it is to cold for dudes to go outside a play thats why they dont have speed up their (Michigan)lol in the south is does not get that cold that means more outside exposure for boy to run around thats why some schools are recruiting the south so much.

By Skydawg

November 7, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

To follow up my prior post, no Anthony, its simply a matter of numbers to choose those athletes. If GA had near the population of FL, it would dominate all high school football. FL is full of nothing but a bunch of prima donna athletes who feel its their right to play college ball and high school is just a formality.

By BXkid

November 7, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

I’m from New York and I played 2 years of High School Football in GA. A lot of schools up North don’t even have football teams. And if you think PA has great football everyone knows that Elizabeth, NJ has the best football in the North not PA. Florida, yeah it’s the speed state but when it comes to coaching and fan support you are amongst the worst, you are to busy worrying about FSU, UF, Miami, USF and FAMU not to name the other teams that aren’t doing all that great besides USF. GA has true High School football tradition, they have the speed and the quality of players that it takes to play college and pro ball.

By Florida Native

November 7, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Hey Skydawg:

Please cite a verifiable source for your conclusions that GA has the highest per-capita D-1 and NFL players. If you cannot cite a responsible source your posts are garbage.

By GeorgiaBoynTX

November 7, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

As I am fully able to defend my home state of GA since I grew up and played football there, from a team talent standpoint I could take Georgia’s top ten teams and match them against the top ten from TX and GA would be lucky to win 1 or 2. I wouldn’t even have to include TX’s top two programs (nationally ranked Southlake Carroll and Katy, TX). From a community passion standpoint, TX and GA are running neck-in-neck so I would call this even. As for history and tradition Valdosta is respected and I made the trip when SWD played them back in the 90’s but TX has Friday Night Lights. The Midland vs. Odessa rivalry is huge like the Army/Navy or GA/FL games!! Then you mention playing in an NFL stadium, it’s gotta be more thrilling to play in HISTORIC TEXAS STADIUM than the GA Dome and I love my FALCONS, by the way. As for the the legendary coaches, there are some here but not more because they move on to college or the pros, such as the latest local legend Todd Dodge who moved on to Div 1 North Texas from Southlake,TX-Carroll High. He went like 3-1 in state championship games in the last several years. As for Pro Prospects, last years MVP is a TEXAS boy and TCU graduate while this years most electrifying player is from Palestine, TX and will likely win the Rookie of the Year and maybe MVP award (unprecedented if he does)….Adrian Peterson, in case you didn’t know.

I love my home state of GA and if it wasn’t for work and a wife I would be living there. But, if you’re not convinced yet please let me know and I’ll send more (smile)!

By Jeff Haws

November 7, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Skydawg-

I didn’t bring those numbers up because I couldn’t find any recent information regarding that. But I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re right and, if you are, that’s an important piece of info to note.

BXkid-

Good point about Florida and all the college teams. They’re sort of the California of the East. Lots of transplants; not a lot of loyalty to high schools for fans. Heck, the Florida Marlins can’t even fill up a quarter of their stadium. How’s a high school team supposed to draw fans?

By O1

November 7, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

ALABAMA’S FOOTBALL TEAMS WOULD SKIN GEARGIA’S FOOTBALL TEAMS!!!!!!!!!!!

By nhseagle1

November 7, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Anthony-Robby Pruitt came from Florida with his 7 or 8 FLORIDA State Championships to coach the Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes. He left after 1 year to coach the Warner Robins Demons where he got drubbed by those Northside Eagles you bashed. He whined about the “feeder schools” not being in his favor so he moved back to Fitzgerald after 1 year. To date he still hasn’t won a State Championship in Georgia. Seems as though those Florida coaches can’t cut it here in Georgia.

By Skydawg

November 7, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

My source was an article on Rivals.com last year. It might have actually been a link to another source. But regardless, it was very evident. Actually I believe GA was only behind CA and FL for current players in the NFL as of 2006. The per capita at that point is very easy to figure out. I’ll try and track down the source. I’m not throwing out random numbers or thoughts. Its been stated as fact.

By Lorenzo

November 7, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

HUGE POINT SUPPORTING GEORGIA FOOTBALL ALWAYS MISSED IN THIS DEBATE:

Georgia is # 1 per capita amongst the top ten most populous states for NFL players. Number 1 period. Georgia has nearly 30 % more NFL players per capita than Texas and nearly 50% more than California. Florida is a close second to Georgia.

Not coincidentally Georgia is also # 1 in Division 1 players per capita of the top ten most populous states.

MORE SHOULD BE MADE OF THE WRITERS OF THIS.

By Skydawg

November 7, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

That was simple. Just do a google search for NFL players by state and you’ll find this website.

NFL players by state

By KD

November 7, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

GA BoynTX I recently moved to TX but I have to disagree with you. I haven’t seen the type of passion that I was told I would see in TX HS football. My wife is a HS teacher and I work in college sports so I’m around it a pretty good bit but I haven’t been blown away. As a former HS coach I can tell you that the talent level per capita in GA is much better. There are so many people that live in this state as well as CA and FL that the numbers alone would make them stand out. Having LT and AP doing things in the NFL is great but you’re only talking about two RB’s in the past two years. I would put GA’s best teams against TX’s best teams and I will bet you that GA would win, at least, half the games. GA puts more players in college and the NFL per capita than TX ever has or will. One more point. GA and FL have the right mix of speed and power across the field. So you don’t only see fast RB’s and WR’s but you see fast LB’s and DL’s. That’s what seperates them from TX and CA. Deion Sanders said it best. He said TX has better facilities and greater commitment to HS football but GA and FL have better talent.

By Jeff Haws

November 7, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Good stuff, Skydawg. I was thinking before in terms of D-I talent, but the NFL numbers are good too. On a per capita basis, it looks like Georgia would be at the top, though I haven’t broken down the population data. Kind of backs up my “Athletes are everywhere” statement.

By Skydawg

November 7, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

KD

Thanks for emphasizing my point. A breakdown based on the link above I posted and 2005 state populations. FL and GA are neck and neck per capita at about 1/107,000. TX is next at 1/133,000 and CA was next at 1/182,000. As of 2005 state populations were GA=9Mil, FL=18Mil, CA=36Mil and TX=23Mil. I rest my case.

By Skydawg

November 7, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Jeff

I’m researching the Div 1 numbers but they are a little harder to come by obviously due to # of programs. But I would imagine, based on NFL players, that the #s would correlate.

By yo

November 7, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Anthony…lets see, I believe this year when Edgewater of Fl. lost to Lincoln of Tallahasee they were ranked #2 in 6A. Lincoln of Tall. then turned around and lost to Valdosta who has never been ranked in the Top 10 in Ga. this year. Looks to me like “all” of Florida is more like third tier.

By Jeff Haws

November 7, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Skydawg-

Yeah, that was my experience that the D-I numbers were tough to come by, but that’s what I was thinking would be the best measure.

Still, good work on that. Very interesting data. Thanks for gathering it together.

By James

November 7, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Joe, you are retarted and you must not have cable, because there are high school games that come on tv here… Come on, get away from the “bunny ears” and get cable…. GA HS football Rules! Maybe if you had put on the pads, you would appreciate it too instead of jumping on bandwagons… But GA football has history and put a lot of ppl through college and through the next level…

By AlbanyViking

November 7, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

To nhseagle1 “Seems as though those Florida coaches can’t cut it here in Georgia.” Sorry to burst your bubble but Coach Randy McPherson, Lowndes Vikings, winners of TWO AAAAA Championships in the past 3 years, coached at Madison County High before moving to Valdosta. However many of us that grew up in Valdosta considered Madison to be in Georgia since it is just down the road.

By Dabrodie

November 7, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Georgia HS teams even have their own rap songs…..that’s great Tift County. :)

By steve

November 7, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Skydawg,

Your link is for 2001 NFL players. I would bet that the Georgia numbers have increased since then, i.e. David Greene, David Pollack, Sean Jones, Leonard Pope, Richard Seymour, Odell Thurman, Thomas Davis, Jonas Jennings, John Stinchcomb,George Foster, Boss Bailey

By Pville

November 7, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

One word ! PRATTVILLE

By BillSoTX

November 7, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

I have to agree with GeorgiaBorynTx, not KD. I am a native Georgian who lives in South TX. Ga is passionate about the HS pigskin, but I think TX gives it even more significance. Valdosta and Nside WR are ardent, but Odessa Permian and Carroll S’lake would equal it. I do agree with comment about TX drives are lonely (and desolate).

By alphabama

November 7, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

On a per capita basis the state of Mississipi puts more football players in college and pros than any other state. Georgia ranks 5th on a per capita basis behind Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Florida.

You Georgia fans need to cut back on the AJC kool-aid and start gathering the facts.

By The Texas Difference

November 7, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

The top few teams from any of the states referenced would likely play fairly even. The Texas difference is the talent pool is deeper. There are about a dozen Lowndes and a dozen North Cobbs and a dozen NSWRs. Plus, they don’t consolidate schools in Texas as much as they do in Georgia. Every cross road has a school and a football team so more kids are playing. If the student body is not large enough to field an 11 man team, then they play 6 man football (a true speed game). The quality level at the top in all those states is the same, it’s just deeper in Texas because of the number of schools. Win a state championship in Texas and it means something. It’s not watered down like in GA (with only 60-70 AAAAA schools and 32 make the playoffs)or AL (with only 32 AAAAAA schools). EACH level (A, AA,AAA, AAAA, AAAAA) in Texas has over 200 schools and that’s not even counting the private schools. Texas uses districts which are the same as regions in GA and there are 32 of them. Only 3 teams make the playoffs from a district instead of 4 like in GA. The BEST TEXAS DIFFERENCE is during the playoffs they play neutral fields for each round. None of this home field advantage stuff. Small schools get to play at larger high school’s stadiums and the larger schools play at college stadiums (i.e. Big 12 stadiums) and pro fields like Texas Stadium, AlamoDome, Astrodome, etc. My high school had only 300 kids but one year in the playoffs we played at Kyle Field on the Texas A&M campus. Another year we played at Sam Houston State University’s stadium…both were great experiences. Especially since all our football careers ended with the last high school football game of our senior year. You know, that also eliminated seating capacity issues that seem to plague Georgia during the playoffs.

By Florida Resident

November 7, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Steve:

Are the players you listed all former Georgia HS players?

By atlgator

November 7, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Based on that link Florida and Georgia are virtually tied for NFL players per capita. Goeirgia was at 9.33 and Florida was at 9.38.

Georgia admittedly does have more passion regarding their HS football than Florida…but it’s not in landslide fashion as many here are stating. I have lived here for 13 years and certainly recognize the talent here as well as the brand of high school football. The Orlando Sentinel has recently stpeed up their high school coverage, but it has been traditionally poor when compared to the AJC. Heck, even the Gainesville Sun & Tallahassee Democrat had better coverage. STILL…many of the posters are simply being homers when saying that Florida is not serious about HS football. There are SEVERAL storied programs in the state…and its a recruiters hotbed for a state that now has 6 Division 1 programs to fill.

By wba

November 7, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

Texas high schools stadiums can seat over twenty thousand in some towns — and and they still run out of tickets for some games. I haven’t seen that level of commitment for any of the teams here.

By Florida resident

November 7, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Steve:

Check your information. Richard Seymour attended HS and lived in South Carolina. Failure to check information before posting should embarrass you.

By dawgingatorville

November 7, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

to 01,

If Bama is so darn great then why is more than half of AUBURNS starters from Georgia high schools! GO DAWGS!!

By Rick

November 7, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

First in football;

Last in the SAT’s

By GAnativeinFL

November 7, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

I played high school football in Georgia, played college ball in Tennessee, and have now lived in Florida for several years. I therefore have some small amount of perspective on the relative quality of high school football in the South. Based on my observations, I would have to say that, all things considered, Florida high school football ranks just slightly above Georgia’s. The passion of the fans is just as high, but the media in Florida covers the games much more here than in Georgia or Tennessee. Many of the games are shown in the various local and regional TV markets, while you are lucky to see a Georgia game on a regional market Florida playoffs have been being played in Dolphins Stadium in Miami, and this year are going to be played at the new Citrus Bowl in Orlando. Florida also has north-south rivalries in football (along with everything else), as well as a big public/private rivalry, seeing as how almost all private schools are members of the FHSAA. The parity is outstanding, as well. The thing that puts it over the edge in Florida’s favor, I think (and remember this is coming from someone who played high school ball in Georgia, is Florida’s edge in talent. South Georgia’s and metro Atlanta’s talent is comparable to ALL of Florida’s. The rest of Georgia’s is okay’s but not great.

By jvillebil

November 7, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

I grew up in South Ga, went to school in N. Ga (UGA) lived for many years in Middle Ga. I spent a 30 year period going to games all over Georgia. I now have lived in North Fl for 10 years and have followed football everywhere I have lived. Nothing comes close to high school football like the pigskin play in Ga. There isn’t a region in the U.S. that matches up with Valdosta’s region year in and year out. I’m not even looking for a response because when your right, well there’s no debate!!!

By MidGaBoy

November 7, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

man ya’ll ought to see HS football in Alaska!! Nobody has what they got!

By teacher

November 7, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Hey Rick,

As funny as you may think you are let me tell you what you have no idea about. The only reason GA ranks so low compared to other states in Academics is this.

GA requires of there students to test including special ed studenst and the kids that have no intention of going to college. What most don’t realize and what frustrates us is that the majority of the states out there only require their college prep students to test and report.

It is very frustrating. It makes it worse when people like you try to use it for humor.

Best Wishes Wise guy

By GA fan

November 7, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

To: The Texas Difference

I hope Tx has alot more schools than GA. I mean it is only 4 times the size, that would make sense.

Don’t ya think…. now tell us something that matters

By national#2

November 7, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

PRATTVILLE HIGH SCHOOL FROM ALABAMA, #2 in the nation baby. won something like 56 straight regular season games, 25 straight regardless, whippped big bad hoover from two-a-days last year and wlll again this year if needed. Oh, and they put a whippin’ on one of the best teams in ga at the beginning of this year 39-3 in the champions challenge. i believe the team was north gwinnett or something, but they were one of the best teams in ga last year. GO LIONS….

By SouthGARules

November 7, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

nhseagle1:

In addition to Robby Pruitt, remember Rick Darlington. He came to Valdosta from Apopka High in Florida & got run off because he could not win. However, Valdosta is infamous for lack of patience. They ran a coach off that went 17-3 in 2 years, but no state titles. He had the misfortune of following Wright Bazemore.

By Ohiostatebuckeye

November 7, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

If George HS football is so good why has,nt Georgia and Georgia Tech won a recent national championship! I guess the HS football players do not translate to national championship!

By Michael

November 7, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

That is one of the stupidest thesis statements I’ve ever read. Georgia football is okay, but hardly the best.

By Competition

November 7, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

hey buckeye it’s called tougher competition… which leads to more parity… something the Big 10 does not know much about.

Bla Bla Bla…. play somebody then talk trash.

By CJ

November 7, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

GA does play very good football. But not on the same level as California, Texas, and Florida.

By B-WILL

November 7, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

What is the big deal about Hs football being on tv in pittsburg. So what, Georgia has the same thing on CSS.

By SE Football Rules

November 7, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

nhseagle-I agree about Robby Pruit. If you remember he had 4 D1 players on his teams in Union County Florida. Those would be Benny Alexander(UF), Gerrard Warren, that went to UF and ultimately the NFL, Andrew Zow to Alabama, and JR Jenkins who went to UGA. It is hard not to win with those guys.

OhiostateBuckeye:don’t compare GA players with OH players as you have never beaten UGA or any SE Conference team. I believe that was the stat in last years failure of a NC game for the Buckeyes. Ohio is overated again this year. Hope to see you play another SEC team in the NC game so your ego might come into check once and for all. Sorry to all the HS fans here for the truth about OSU. As far as Texas, Florida and Georgia High School, the truth is in how you read the numbers. They are all great High School State and to determine the best they need establish playoff system.

By yo

November 7, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

If Ohio St. had to play in the SEC they would be a doormat and perenial never in the Top 25. Shoot, they even have a hard time beating Michigan. An undefeated Ohio St. team would have at least 2 losses by now. Your worst night mare will be if LSU makes it the rest of the way without another loss. Assuming you do beat Michigan. It hasnt been that long ago that Fl spanked your tails and LSU will too.

By steve

November 7, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

There is one variable left out of all this nonsense. Most other states require student athletes to be able to pronounce and spell the word athalete (sic). As Georgia in a bottom feeder in academia circles it is apparent that the student athlete is used and not developed. That is the difference between Georgia and other states. I get this from living, coaching and playing college sports in other states. I am very disappointed with the academic requirements to play sports. Maybe it should be changed form Georgia football to Neanderthal football. I lived in Valdosta. Not impressed with the educational environment - check out the Georgia DOE website. Why weren’t any schools from Georgia involved in the Herbstreit challenge in Ohio? I have seen the powerhouse teams from Texas play the powerhouse teams from Miami. Who are the powerhouse teams from Georgia playing? What is the UGA grad rate for football players from Georgia? I do remember watching a championship football game in Oklahoma in 1975 played at Owen Field (OU home turf) with 38,000 in attendace. The state population was only around 2 million. How many are in the dome for one championship game? A lot less when I went and watched Lowndes a few years ago. Send some of your “big boys” out to play real football and then talk. Otherwise it is just ethnocentric garbage like the educational system in Georgia.

By Dan

November 7, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

NS eagle I agree on Robby Pruit. He had 4 D1 prospects on his team at Union County in FL. Gerrard Warren, Benny Alexander, JR Jenkins, and Andrew Zow. All played in the SEC. It is hard not to win with those 4 playing together for 3 or 4 years. Ohiostate Buckeye:OSU has never beaten an SEC team…your championships hopes always seem to fall short against the best competition. In fact I believe OSU is 0-8 or 0-9 against the SEC. Therefore, don’t compare your instate talent with GA, FL, LSU, Bama,or anyone else in the Southeast. There is no real way to determine who has the best instate talent at the High School level. Statistics can be manipulated to support almost anyones views…even Ohiostatbuckeyes. The only way is to have all star games between the states. FL, TX, GA, Bama, Cal, and many other states have exceptional talent levels. Any given year one state can be above the others. In GA defense, like FL and TX, many other universities raid the state for talent. GA has among the best talent in the country. Is it the best? Which year is it?

By Ohiostatebuckeye

November 7, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Oh so its competition that keeps GA from winning a national championship. I thought it was called choking. If you have the talent and the coaching you should win! Georgia football is highly overrate.

By Can't Come Back

November 7, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

There’s a little known law in Texas that if a kid goes outside the state to play college ball he can never return to Texas. Hear that QB Stafford?

By To Buck-O the Buck-I

November 7, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Talk about a screwed up high school football system, just go to Ohio. Also, Big 10 football is as exciting as watching a ping-pong match. Plus how can you be the Big 10 with 11 teams??? Can you spell S-E-C / F-L-O-R-I-D-A G-A-T-O-R-S?

By To steve

November 7, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

FYI. Buford went to Ohio and routed an Ohio team.

By A Dion Quote...Ha, Ha.

November 7, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

I have now heard it all!! A quote from the world beacon of intelligence, the infamous, Deion Sanders. i.e. “Deion Sanders said it best. He said TX has better facilities and greater commitment to HS football…”. Please, give me a break.

By Todd Smith

November 7, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Why would Stafford want to go back to Texas for? The women aren’t half as pretty as these peaches are here.

By steve

November 7, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

Thanks for proving my point. Buford plays Grove City and wins 34-7. Grove City is 2-8 in Ohio. Not so impressive until you go look at the DOE website for info on how academic Buford isn’t.

By A Stafford Response

November 7, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Stafford is on a missionary trip. He’s sharing with the world how to play football….Texas style.

By GAFTBL

November 7, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

For your information, there was a Georgia team that played in the Kirk Herbsteit Classic this year. It was little ol Buford a “AA” school here in Georgia. If I’m not mistaken they beat the dog poo poo out of an Ohio Team. So don’t run your mouth when you don’t have the facts.

By steve

November 7, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

To GAFTBL - you should read before you post unless you went to the academic palace called Buford. Fact - the team you beat (your elolquent vernacular) so badly - is 2-8. Wow, such a feather from you running your mouth. You are such an excellent case in point of learning in the Georgia educational system. Of course, if you knew how to read but then you probably played Georgia HS football without a helmet. So impressive with such agressive retorts. Dog poopoo. Sorry but I have to laugh at your intellect. Which high school did you attend? You will probably respond - Georgia.

By War Eagle

November 7, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

As a former high school coach my opinion is population is key to consistent success. 1. Californis 2. Florida 3. Texas 4. Georgia 5.tie Ohio, Penn.States vary from year to year on overall success. I realized their was no comparison in Ga and Tenn HS football when we played Tenn. teams. I have seen several Florida HS games, majority seem to have size and Jamaican speed.I saw a HS game in Orange Bowl,1995, 42.000 people.Georgia football was very strong in early 80`s and from 2000-present.

By hy my name is steve

November 7, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Well Steve let me tell how educated and well spoken you come off. It takes a very ignorant person with low self esteem to try to belittle people and make fun over the internet. You have such a large epeen. Keep on talking. You sound like such the scholar yourself.

If you sir were so educated then you would be able to hold a debate without having to resort to name calling.

Best of luck my big man.

By pioneer

November 7, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Cincinnati schools have used Paul Brown for several years. The Dome is fine…kind of sterile. When Valdosta can finally beat little Madison County, FL…and when Gwinnett starts playing the Cincy Catholics…and when Northside plays in the Herbstreit challenge, then Georgia can argue for #1. Buford played a nobody Ohio school last year.

By yo

November 7, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

Steve…Grove Citys 2-8 record just means they have a better winning percentage against Ohio teams than Georgia teams. Little AA classification Georgia teams at that. Pretty much the same winning percentage Ohio State would have in the SEC. Any one with “any kind” of education knows that.

By yo

November 7, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

Pioneer…since you have such a pioneering spirit…tell them to come on down and play us. Starting with Lowndes Cty. In fact, just bring the best you have to offer right on down next year. We are waiting. It might be that any school from Ohio would qualify as a “nobody” high school after a few games in Georgia, the SEC of high school football. In case you haven’t heard of the SEC just take a few classes at Ohio State, because Ohio State’s teacher is the SEC. Ohio State should just go ahead and make the SEC its dean of education. Since it is always schooling you. I know you aren’t coming though, because we are too dangerously close to Gator country. One thing I have learned is Buckeyes lose their pioneering spirit when they get too close to Gator country.

By kevin

November 8, 2007 6:56 AM | Link to this

I know that on an annual basis on 4 states have players receive D-1 scholarships. Those states are Texas, California, Florida, and Ohio. Those states all have much larger populations than Georgia. That should help make SkyDawg’s point. The impressive think about that number is that there are only 2 D-1 schools in Georgia. Florida has at least 7. Texas has at least 8. Ohio has at least 5. Scan the rosters of D-1 teams and you will see that most have a top player or 2 from Georgia.

By GAMOJO

November 8, 2007 6:58 AM | Link to this

I have lived in GA for 13 years. I am a Odessa Permian grad and have been looking for a football experience equal to Permian since I have been here. No success so far and I have been from one end of the state to the other. I got close at UGA.

By Jamesdawg

November 8, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this

Ohiostatebuckeye ,

Your beloved team has never beaten an SEC team in a bowl game 0-8. Now that show how great you team is and how ignorant you are. It’s obvious you would never make it to an SEC East or West championship more or less an NC game. Face the facts; if LSU makes it to the big game you have no chance in hell. KY, UGA, AU, FL, LSU, AL, and maybe USC would all put an L on your clean record. Top of the BIG 10 bottom of the SEC East.

Steve, I don’t know what to say to you. I guess I will pray you’re not as miserable as you appear. Georgia high school players have to meet grade requirements just as they do in every other state. As it was stated earlier, we test all of our students, not just the ones we think have a chance to get into college. Do you think that requirement would have something to do with our testing scores. At least Georgia doesn’t give up on children who don’t fit the ideal mold. I do have to admit if there weren’t people like you the rest of use wouldn’t appear as confident. Sorry but I have to laugh at your intellect or lack there of. It amuses me how passiontly you want to insult Georgia High School football. What was it they did to you that was so bad? Does someone need a hug or some medication?

By Cincinnati

November 8, 2007 7:59 AM | Link to this

Anybody here happen to know which city is the only city to ever have three high school football teams simultaneously ranked in the NATIONAL AP Top 25? I’ll give you a hint, it ain’t in Georgia. I’ll give you another hint — they settle it on the field against the best in the country (and sorry, the “best” didn’t come from Georgia, although you finally merited an invite this year and beat a 2-8 team. Congrats).

When Georgia high school football deserves the respect they so lavishly heap on themselves, maybe you can join Florida, California, and Texas and come up to Ohio and play in the big leagues.

By HowStupid

November 8, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

WHAT A FREAKING IDIOTIC THREAD! I would bet that most high schools elect to stay in state and play for the universities located in their state

Lets, see last national championship for FL, 2006 (not to mention FSU’s NC in this decade as well as Miami’s). Texas’s last NC, what a few years ago, CA’s (USC) last NC a few years ago. GEORGIA’S last NC, what 25 years ago. Clearly the other 3 states have the horses that GA does not.

By yo

November 8, 2007 8:44 AM | Link to this

Cincinnati…thats because you play close to the Big 10 and the competition is weak. See Ohio St. for a perfect example of how easy it is to get ranked and still be average.

By yo

November 8, 2007 8:52 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry “Im Stupid” but since we are talking about what have you done for me lately then based on your “I’m Stupid” assessment the best football players would come from Louisiana, Ohio, Oregon, and Kansas, etc. since they are currently ranked #1 and #2. Now since we are talking about what have you done for me lately who was it that just beat the Gators in the Gator bowl? Also, are you seriously bragging on Miami and Fl. State football these days? Now arent you feeling kind of….well….”I’m Stupid”?

By tj

November 8, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

Cincinnati: didn’t Valdosta a team that is not even ranked in the coaches poll in Georgia beat your Beat diggers witch were ranked number one for a while. Did you forget about that and how about this, this same team beat Lincoln (FL), which is a power in Florida did you forget about that next time get your facts straight.

By Kudzudog

November 8, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

One of the best coaches in Florida {Apopka} got a chance to coach Valdosta. He lasted 3 years and came home asking for his old job back. Should be said they were glad to have him back. Georgia high school football takes no back seat.

By Kudzudog

November 8, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

One of the best coaches in Florida {Apopka} got a chance to coach Valdosta. He lasted 3 years and came home asking for his old job back. Should be said they were glad to have him back. Georgia high school football takes no back seat.

By HowStupid

November 8, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

hey “yo” did you not see the part about National Championship. Has Kansas or Oregon ever won a NC and I’m glad you mention OSU.

2006 is “lately” regarding the last NC idiot. Again, last NC for GA…what 25 years ago. You feel real stupid for not jumping ship decades ago, don’t you?

By tj

November 8, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this

Just look at the number of coaches that come from Florida just to have the privilege to coach at a Georgia school almost all the 1-AAAAA coaches are from Florida (Jay Walls Tift County, Randy McPherson Lowndes, Rick Tomberlin Valdosta, Jerry Odom Coffee, Tim Cokely Colquitt)

By ATL

November 8, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this

Here are the facts:

Georgia HS football is outstanding. To say they’re the nation’s best is probably off. Florida, Texas & California produce significantly more NFL & D-1 players than Georgia (per NFL.com & Countdown to Signing Day). While those 3 states have more people than Georgia, Georgia has a much higher population than most people realize. As far as the most NFL & D-1 players per capita, Louisiana, Mississippi & South Carolina are much higher than Georgia, as they turn out high #’s of players, but have very small populations compared to Georgia (per NFL.com) Georgia & Texas have the best HS Coaching in the nation. Some of the best.

By ATL

November 8, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

Georgia pays their Teachers & HS Football Coaches more than anybody in the Southeast. Only Texas pays their Teachers & HS Football Coaches better.

By tjs

November 8, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

Ga football the best hmmmm…not quite, on a population basis Wash D.C. has 10 players in the NFL with a 500,000 population…best per capita in the NFL…Florida players are far more sought after than GA players, if your into “smash mouth football” GA is near the top of the class, but note the UGA QB is from Texas as the home products are lacking. To shot everybody up get ESPN to have top GA programs play the Ohio schools on tv. This would give you a window on the real football world…

By Valdosta Grad

November 8, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Valdosta graduate here. The Beet Diggers were from Utah, not Cincinatti. However, I agree with everyone who says that Georgia football is the best anywhere in the country.

By War Eagle

November 8, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

The Head Coach at my former high school makes $105,000.00 year plus perks. He averages 10 wins a season.Replay scoreboard, 3.5 million field house 8,000 stadium and planning a 12 million dollar extension after football season.

By Valdosta Grad

November 8, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

If you want to get an idea of how much Georgia high school football means just take a look at Link: Valdosta Wildcats Web Page

By midd

November 8, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

What have you been drinking, only one team in the state of Georgia is ranked nationally, Florida rules.

By bohgey

November 8, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

In response to “A Stafford Response” and “Can’t Come Back,” Matthew Stafford was born in Dunwoody, Georgia. His father went to UGA. It is pretty safe to say that he was a Bulldog long before he was a Highland Park Scot. However, we do thank his coaches for molding his talent and showing him how to play good football.

I do think that Texas, Georgia, Florida, and California all have far superior high school football than any other state, each with their own attributes. To be concise and to the point.

By Panther Forever

November 8, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

They don’t show it much on t.v in ga beacuse of two reasons, 1. NORMAL PEOPLE DON’T WATCH HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL, OR ANY HIGH SCHOOL SPORT FOR THAT MATTER, ON T.V. WE TEND TO GET OUT AND (GASP) GO TO THE GAMES.

1. WE PUT OUT THE BEST FOOTBALL, BASKETBALL, ETC. PLAYERS YEAR AFTER YEAR, YOU KNOW HOW WE DO THAT?….IT’S CALL HARD WORK, WE DON’T SIT AROUND ALL DAY PLAYING PLAYSTATION, EATING SNICKER BARS, AND BANGING OUR SISTERS LIKE YOU NUTBAGS FROM UP NORTH.

By NC Fan

November 8, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

To: Midd

You missed a team. There are 2 GA teams in there. Here have a look!

Team Location Record Pvs. 1. Northwestern Miami, Fla. 9-0 1 2. St. Xavier Cincinnati, Ohio 11-0 2 3. South Panola Batesville, Miss. 10-0 3 4. Katy Katy, Texas 9-0 4 5. Prattville Prattville, Ala. 10-0 6 6. Carroll Southlake, Texas 8-1 7 7. De La Salle Concord, Calif. 8-0 15 8. Central Catholic Pittsburgh, Pa. 10-0 8 9. Cardinal Mooney Youngstown, Ohio 11-0 9 10. Hamilton Chandler, Ariz. 10-0 10 11. Booker T. Washington Miami, Fla. 8-0 11 12. Pahokee Pahokee, Fla. 9-0 12 13. Northside Warner Robins, Ga. 9-0 13 14. Union Tulsa, Okla. 10-0 14 15. Jenks Jenks, Okla. 9-1 16 16. St. Peter’s Prep Jersey City, N.J. 8-0 17 17. Colerain Cincinnati, Ohio 11-0 20 18. Mt. Carmel Chicago, Ill. 11-0 22 19. Maryville Maryville, Tenn. 10-0 19 20. Westfield Chantilly, Va. 10-0 21 21. Don Bosco Prep Ramsay, N.J. 8-0 25 22. Columbine Littleton, Colo. 10-0 23 23. Bastrop Bastrop, La. 10-0 24 24. St. Xavier Louisville, Ky. 10-0 27 25. Byrnes Duncan, S.C. 11-0 29 26. Armwood Seffner, Fla. 10-0 26 27. Centennial Corona, Calif. 9-1 33 28. Eden Prairie Eden Prairie, Minn. 11-0 35 29. Cretin-Derham Hall St. Paul, Minn. 11-0 32 30. Rockhurst Kansas City, Mo. 10-0 36 31. Allen Allen, Texas 9-0 34 32. Permian Odessa, Texas. 9-0 38 33. Birmingham Lake Balboa, Calif. 8-1 46 34. Oscar Smith Chesapeake, Va. 9-0 37 35. Mullen Denver, Colo. 9-0 39 36. Dakota Macomb, Mich. 11-0 40 37. Osceola Kissimmee, Fla. 10-0 NR 38. Lakes Tacoma, Wash. 9-0 41 39. Lake Oswego Lake Oswego, Ore. 8-0 43 40. North Shore Galena Park, Texas 9-0 NR 41. Lakeland Lakeland, Fla. 9-1 18 42. Hoover Hoover, Ala. 8-1* 44 43. North Cobb Kennesaw, Ga. 9-0 45 44. Warrenville South Wheaton, Ill. 11-0 47 45. Notre Dame Sherman Oaks, Calif. 8-1 NR 46. Blue Springs South Blue Springs, Mo. 9-1 31 47. Bettendorf Bettendorf, Iowa 10-0 48 48. Bingham South Jordan, Utah 11-1 49 49. West Monroe West Monroe, La. 9-0 50 50. North Allegheny Wexford, Pa. 10-0 NR

By GAFTBL

November 8, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

I was just letting you know that Georgia did have a School representing them in the Herbstreit classic this year, cause you said that Georgia didn’t have anyone. Maybe you should talk to the higer powers to be, and get them to invite more Georiga High schools to play in the classic.

By yo

November 8, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Hey “How Stupid” and “I’m Stupid” you really should find a better way (even though accurate)to describe yourself with your handles. Obviously you are suffering with self esteem issues and you should take it easier on yourself. Now for the “Well Duh!” regarding your comments. It is going to require you to think out of the box a little bit. Just a little. Come on you can do it! You used “recent” NC to prove your point. Which only unproves your point since most “recent” is now and 2006. Yes I included OSU but I don’t think it was in a positive light, so you are welcome to be included with the likes of Oregon and Kansas. If that helps you with your self esteem. Glad to be of service. I am wondering as to how the 2006 OSU nightmare against Florida stacks up when compared to the other teams in the SEC against Florida in “2006”? You better stay in the Big wimpering 10 if you ever want to keep having chances at NC. It is the only way you ever get them. Beating slow patsy’s with slow patsy Ohio players.

By Call it Like it is

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

AMEN on Valdosta!!

Lowndes will be the next Valdosta very soon.

By Hornet Nation

November 8, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

alphabama what is the source of your stats?

By Orange-N-Peach

November 8, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

I’ve played football in So Fla in high school,played college ball in Ga, and now I coach in metro area the diffence in the game is heart ,attitude and comptetiveness. I have worked out with canes from the 80,s and Dogs from the 80,s and all were top rank athletes but when it come down to the nitty gritty its all about the dog in YOU!!!!! Speed Kills

By Georgia Native

November 8, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

California = complex offensive systems, aside from Marist, name a Georgia team that runs a complex running or passing game with actual timing routes and reads… not have Athlete 1 throw it up to Athlete 2. Florida = speaking of athletes, Georgia does produce some great athletes, Florida just churns out more. It’s all that running on sand. Texas = refresh my memory please, where’d Matthew Stafford come from again? How many TV shows and movies are based on Georgia football?

Georgia’s not number 1, but they are up there.

By Ice Cold Texan

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

OK look folks all that facts and numbers sound good. I too am one of those who lived in Georgia but I am originally from Texas. I also lived in Alabama. There are only a few states who can come close ….. NOTICE I SAID COME CLOSE to Texas and I base that on: A) Love, Enthusiasm and Passion for High School Football. Towns and communities literally shut down for football. Even in the city, your typical Friday night does not start until after the football game (no matter your age) B) 3 - 4 TV. Shows/stations dedicated to High School Football C) When was a block buster hit ever created about a high school football rivalry in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Penn. or California (And I am not talking ESPN documentaries because we have those too.) D) If you look at the last 10 - 15 National Championships They are mostly from the South (Southeast or South West)… It is a known fact that the majority (50-60%) of Oklahomas team is from Texas, Then there is Texas, LSU (1/3 of the players are from Texas), Same with Kansas, Kansas St, OKlahoma St, Georgia recruits heavily in Texas whether they admit it or not …. WHy? Talent Poool and a great deal of it. E) Stadium - Georgia Dome is Good but Texas Stadium and even Reliant Field are much better F) Top Players in the league…. just to name of few => Some guy named L.T, Adrian Peteson, VY (vince Young), Roy Williams, Selvin Young, Mike Griffin, Cedric Griffin, Nathan Vasher, Cory Redding, Joseph Addai… Think I have made my point

When comes down to it Georgia has Valdosta, Northside Warner Robbins, and 1 more……

Texas has how many powerhouse teams going down from 5A - 3 … I would name them but I don’t have enough space on this website…..

By gacalitransplant

November 8, 2007 8:15 PM |