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April 2008
Spring Football Fling: New coach, region among changes for youthful Mays squad
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/28: Lowndes • 4/29: Parkview • 4/30: Mays • 5/1: Marist • 5/2: Northside-WR • 5/3: Lovett • 5/4: St. Pius
Photos: A look at Mays
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Mays in ‘08? Can Big Blue overcome so much change? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
If football games are won with linemen, Mays could struggle early.
The Raiders will be an extremely young team under first-year head coach Dominic Callaway, who was Jesse Solomon’s defensive coordinator last season. Solomon resigned before the end of the 2007 season while under school board investigation.
Dedrick Couch is the only experienced lineman returning on offense or defense, but the program is filled with talented young players who will be asked to step up.
Callaway also expects Myer Nolan to emerge as one of the area’s best two-way players at receiver and defensive back. Nolan was an All-CityLife player last season on defense, but Callaway says Nolan will contribute on offense this year.
“[Solomon and I] have different styles,” Callaway said. “We were successful, and I have been a part of that. I know what it takes to be successful. We’ll be a team that plays hard and disciplined. We want to be mistake-free as much as possible.”
Mays should be in the hunt for one of the two playoff berths in Region 5-AAAA/Division B, which on paper appears to be the easier of the two divisions. In 2007, the combined record of the teams now in Division B was 30-33. Teams in Division A were a combined 36-31.
Mays Raiders
Region 5-AAAA/Division B
Spring practice dates: May 5-16.
Last year’s record: 9-3, 8-2 in Region 6-AAAA (second); lost to East Paulding (21-3) in the second round of the playoffs.
Reclassification challenge: The Raiders escape from brutal Region 6-AAAA, which included Tucker, Marist and St. Pius, and move to a much friendlier Region 5-AAAA/Division B.
Working on: Mays will be looking for five offensive linemen when spring practice begins on May 5. In fact, the team will be young at most positions. Only six of last year’s 22 starters return.
Key starters lost: Bernard Smith, DE (signed with West Virginia); Brandon Hodges, OL (Savannah State); A.J. Portee, DE (UConn); Naquan Smith, S (Grambling).
Key starters returning: Bobby Anthony, QB; Winston Broderick, RB; Dedrick Couch, DL; Myer Nolan, S/WR; Mario Turner, FB/LB; Desmond Walker, RB.
2008 strengths: Anthony gives the Raiders an experienced leader and playmaker at quarterback. If he can stay healthy - he struggled with a shoulder injury during the second half of last season - the 6-2, 205-pound athlete is one of the state’s top running/passing threats. And Mays also will have experience and talent in the backfield - Broderick, Turner and Walker were key contributors last season.
2008 weaknesses: Any team that loses 16 starters has to start over, and it would seem that the odds for first-year success are against Callaway. But he led the team to the playoffs last season and is a familiar face at the southwest Atlanta school after being on the coaching staff for three years.
This season’s projection: If Mays can build offensive and defensive lines, it could earn a playoff berth.
Photos: A look at Mays
Week Two Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P-Ridge • 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette • 4/27: Brookwood
Week One Lineup
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison • 4/18: Camden • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Mays in ‘08? Can Big Blue overcome so much change? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Parkview’s offense veteran, defense young
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/28: Lowndes • 4/29: Parkview • 4/30: Mays • 5/1: Marist • 5/2: Northside-WR • 5/3: Lovett • 5/4: St. Pius
Photos: A look at Parkview
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Parkview in ‘08? Can the Panthers’ young “D” step up? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Consecutive exits in the first round of the state playoffs are not something the Parkview football program is used to. But that’s the current situation in Lilburn after losses to Etowah and Walton the last two seasons.
In 2008, the good news is on offense, where nine starters return, including standout running backs Brandon Jacobs and TaRon Squires. Clayton Wilkin and Kalik Barnes will stage a healthy quarterback competition when spring camp opens in one week.
The bad news is defense, where cornerbacks Squires and Julian Vann return to a unit that allowed 15 points a game last season.
“We’re going to be young on [defense],” coach Cecil Flowe said. “We’ve had to do that before, and we’ve been young on offense. We’ll make it go.”
Parkview will depend on several sophomores, including Kendrick Adams, A.J. Carroll, Walter McGriff and Justin Peurone, to win a starting jobs during spring camp. Flowe and his staff made a conscious effort to start the spring season later so the younger players could work in the weight room.
“We used to have spring early-to-late January, early February,” Flowe said. “[But] that’s why we’re having spring late so they can grow some more physically.”
Parkview Panthers
Region 8-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: May 5-16.
Last year’s record: 7-4, lost in the first round to Walton.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Finding a quarterback. Rising senior Clayton Wilkin lost his starting job late in the 2007 season, then injured his ACL. Now Wilkin will have to cmpete with rising junior Kalik Barnes for the starting job. The defense will have to replace six starters.
Key starters lost: WR/QB Derrick Heitkamp; SS Brandon Evans; K/P Jordan Stowe; DE Brian Farris.
Key starters returning: QB Wilkin; RB/LB Brandon Jacobs; RB/DB TaRon Squires.
2008 strengths: The Panthers should be solid in the backfield with seniors Jacobs and Squires (combined for nearly 1,600 rushing yards) getting the majority of the carries.
2008 weaknesses: The defense will be, for the most part, young and inexperienced. But Flowe is hoping a strong rising sophomore class can help soften the blow of losing six defensive starters.
This season’s projection: With Jacobs and Squires and an experienced offensive front, Parkview will be able to run the football. The healthy return of Wilkin from ACL surgery or the emergence of Barnes under center could determine whether Parkview is a good offensive team.
Comment: “You have to put some guys mentally and physically in the mix and see if they’ll mix it up,” Flowe said. “You can see if they’re coachable and then you’ve got a foundation.”
Week Two Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P-Ridge • 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette • 4/27: Brookwood
Week One Lineup
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison • 4/18: Camden • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
Photos: A look at Parkview
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Parkview in ‘08? Can the Panthers’ young “D” step up? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Georgia High School Baseball Blog - April 29, 2008
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Step up to the plate: Pitch YOUR all-class Top 10 Kurt’s way. Hardball is the place to talk high school baseball on ajc.com. We’ll be posting scores as they become available, but if you’ve got the scoop, please feel free to post scores, recaps and highlights. Thanks.
Don’t go breakin’ my… bat
Ever seen the bottom of an aluminum bat break off? That’s what happened when the Hardball staff took in Landmark Christian-Providence Christian last Friday. Landmark leadoff hitter Kyle Wren sawed off the bottom three or four inches of the bat with a first-inning single.
Kyle’s brother, Colby, later was involved in a 1-5-3-4 triple play from his third base position in a wild game that helped the War Eagles move a step closer to the Region 5-A title.
Afterward, winning pitcher Tanner Bryant, whose bat Wren broke in the first, sounded sad to see the piece of aluminum go.
“We’ve been using it a lot this year,” Bryant said. “That bat has hit 14 home runs this year.”
Had hit.
AJC All-Class Top 10
1. Brookwood (1) - Broncos No. 3 in national poll.
2. Harrison (3) - Seven straight wins for Hoyas, No. 15 in national poll.
3. East Paulding (7) - Raiders red-hot after Monday victory against Sequoyah pushed winning streak to eight games.
4. Columbus (2) - Blue Devils on short list of Class AAA favorites.
5. Holy Innocents’ (5) - Region 6-AA title game with Wesleyan looming.
6. South Effingham (6) - Mustangs battle Harlem Tuesday for Region 3-AAA crown.
7. Marist (NR) - War Eagles on 15-game winning streak.
8. Greenbrier (8) - Wolfpack battle Effingham County in Region 3-AAAA semifinals.
9. Heritage (4) - Patriots drop two straight, still control own destiny in 8-AAAA race.
10. Cartersville (NR) - Region 6-AAA champs averaging 11 runs per game during nine-game winning streak.
* Last week’s rankings in parenthesis
Class AA Profile: Westside-Augusta
We told you the Class AA profiles would keep coming. This week we take a look at Westside-Augusta. The Patriots, under long-time coach Gerald Barnes, are 18-1 and 12-0 in Region 3-AA. Westside is on a 16-game winning streak, trying to get back to the state finals after a two-year absence.
Westside has been winning with the home run. Seniors Sanders Commings (University of Georgia football signee) has hit 12, and Middle Georgia baseball signee Chandler Hall has added 13. Add 13 from junior shortstop Logan Gaines, and Westside has a trio of hitters who have hit the most home runs in Barnes’ 33 years.
Fire breathin’ Dragons
If you’re looking for a Class A favorite, you might want to try Region 8-A champ Jefferson. The Dragons have two excellent sophomore outfielders in Jake Fields (.600 average, 13 HRs, 36 RBIs) and Lucas Redd (.442, 18 RBIs) and solid pitching from senior Cameron Blinn and junior Chris Beck, who are a combined 11-0 with 123 strikeouts in 81 2/3 innings.
Squeeze bunts
Pope has won six consecutive games, including victories against Holy Innocents’ and Kell. … Senior right-hander Cliff Carter has been the savior in the Parkview bullpen, compiling a 1.25 ERA with eight saves for the 19-6 Panthers.
April 29 results
Brookstone 16, Greenville 0
Chattahoochee 1, Roswell 0
Dalton 6, Southeast Whitfield 1
Dunwoody 13, Clarkston 1
Greenbrier 5, Effingham County 1
Griffin 16, Westside-Macon 4 (Game 1)
Griffin 15, Westside-Macon 4 (Game 2)
Harlem 10, South Effingham 5
Harrison 10, North Cobb 2
Hebron Christian 12, Prince Avenue Christian 1
Jones County 15, Forest Park 1 (Game 1)
Jones County 10, Forest Park 0 (Game 2)
Kennesaw Mountain 10, Murray County 0
Lee County 10, Valdosta 3
McEachern 4, Woodstock 3
Mundy’s Mill 15, Tri-Cities 0
Landmark Christian 13, Mt. Pisgah 1
Pace Academy 11, Walker 7
Pacelli 13, Chattahoochee County 0
Providence Christian 17, Mt. Paran 0
Screven County 8, Westside-Augusta 6
Wilkinson County 14, Glascock County 4
Step up to the plate: Pitch YOUR all-class Top 10 Kurt’s way. Hardball is the place to talk high school baseball on ajc.com. We’ll be posting scores as they become available, but if you’ve got the scoop, please feel free to post scores, recaps and highlights. Thanks.
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Georgia’s 2008 NFL Draft crop yields several surprise picks
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
If I didn’t miss anybody, there were 11 former Georgia high school players taken in the NFL Draft this past weekend. These are not the 11 guys you would have predicted to be wearing NFL caps five years ago, based on their high school careers.
Only one, Thomas Brown, was an AJC Super 11 pick. Only two others, Tashard Choice and Andre Fluellen, were rated three stars or above by Rivals or Scout. The rest were one or two stars. Here are the 11.
Leodis McKelvin, Ware County - The only first-round pick among Georgians, McKelvin went to the Bills at No. 11 overall. He was the cornerback from Troy who returned seven punts for touchdowns in his career. He was first-team all-state in 2003 but a two-star recruit, according to Scout.com.
Dexter Jackson, Dunwoody - This is the Appalachian State receiver who caught two touchdown passes vs. Michigan and wound up on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He ran a 4.27 at the NFL combine and went in the second round to Tampa Bay. Jackson caught only 30 passes in his career at Dunwoody and wasn’t recruited by any Division 1 schools.
Harry Douglas, Jonesboro - Drafted by the Falcons in the third round, Douglas was an honorable mention All-State in high school. He had 40 catches for 831 yards as a high school senior and considered a better basketball player. Douglas caught 141 passes in his last two seasons at Louisville. Another two-star recruit.
Andre Fluellen, Cartersville - A three-star recruit who went to Florida State and red-shirted and slowly became a star at defensive tackle. Drafted by the Lions in the third round.
Philip Wheeler, Shaw - A two-star recruit, Wheeler was the fourth best linebacker in Georgia Tech’s class of 2003, according to Scout. He was first-team all-state and played on Shaw’s 2000 state championship team. Drafted by the Colts late in the third.
Tashard Choice, Lovejoy - Rushed for 1,200 yards as a high school senior and was highly regarded as a recruit. Rivals rated him the No. 22 running back in the nation. He led the ACC twice in rushing for Tech. Drafted by Dallas in the fifth round.
Erik Walden, Dublin - A one-star recruit, Walden was first-team all-state for Dublin’s 14-1 team that lost to Screven County in the Class AAA final. Walden had 19 sacks as a high school senior but was not a big recruit. Went to Middle Tennessee State, was drafted by Dallas in the sixth round.
Durant Brooks, Tattnall Square - A punter, Brooks played for a GISA school, then two years at Georgia Military. The Redskins took him in the sixth.
Thomas Brown, Tucker - The AJC’s 2003 Super 11 class was pretty typical. Four will make the NFL (Brown, Calvin Johnson, Darius Walker and Charles Johnson). Three were good college players who might still make the NFL (Michael Grant, Brad Lester, Lorenzo Washington). Three were decent college players who never became full-time starters in college (A.J. Bryant, Jeremy Ciulla, Brandon Miller). One was a bust (Eric McClendon).
Brandon Coutu, Collins Hill - Coffee’s Chase Goggans was the all-state kicker and punter in 2002 and got a scholarship at FSU, where he never started. Coutu walked on at Georgia. He went to Seattle in the seventh.
Larry Grant, Norcross - Who remembers this guy? He played two seasons at Meadowcreek, then transferred to Norcross for his senior season, then transferred in mid-year to graduate in California. After two years of junior college, he would up starting last season at Ohio State as a linebacker. Grant rushed for 450 yards at Norcross and was a small-time recruit.
And finally, the Georgia NFL Draft quiz*
1. Who is the last Georgia quarterback to be drafted in the first round?
2. Who is the only kicker or punter from Georgia to be drafted in the first round?
3. Who is the only Georgia player to be taken with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft?
4. Who is the most recent Gwinnett County player drafted in the first round?
5. Who is the most recent DeKalb County player drafted in the first round?
6. Who is the only Georgia player to graduate from an all-black high school and be drafted in the first round?
7. Who was the only Georgia player drafted in the first round of the 2007 NFL draft?
8. In 1998, two players from the same Georgia high school were drafted in the first round. Who were they?
9. The Falcons have picked two Georgia natives in the first round. Who were they?
10. Two players from Douglass High have been picked in the first round this decade. Who are they?
*Answers later
Kick off the debate: Are you surprised by the picks out of Georgia in this year’s NFL Draft? Who do you think will enjoy a long, productive pro football career and who do you think is overrated? Who should’ve gone higher and who was chosen TOO high?
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Spring Football Fling: Lowndes locked in, loaded up for state title defense
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/28: Lowndes • 4/29: Parkview • 4/30: Mays • 5/1: Marist • 5/2: N’side-Warner Robins • 5/3: Lovett • 5/4: St. Pius
Photos: A look at Lowndes
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Lowndes in ‘08? Are the Vikes a state title shoo-in? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
There is bad news for all of those football teams wanting to win the 2008 Class AAAAA state championship.
Lowndes, winners of three of the last four state titles, might field one of its best teams in years.
Fourteen starters return on offense and defense, and both kickers also return from last season’s dominant football team.
The defense could be even better after yielding only eight points a game last year. Cornerback Greg Reid, a Florida commitment, and safety Gerald Demps, who has committed to Florida State, lead the way. The defensive front welcomes back five of six starters.
Lowndes Vikings
Region 1-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: Held in February.
Last year’s record: 14-1, defeated North Gwinnett 34-6 for the state championship.
Reclassification challenge: Region adds two-time Class AAAA champion, Northside-Warner Robins.
Worked on: Physicality. Mastering the fundamentals of tackling and blocking has always been coach Randy McPherson’s credo, and that lunch box approach is exactly what the Vikings focused upon.
Key starters lost: RB Darriet Perry (Florida International); CB Kelly Dawsey (Western Michigan); LB Tavaris Williams (Georgia Southern); LB Blake Summers.
Key starters returning: DB-WB — Greg Reid, Sr., (5-9, 175); FS — Gerald Demps, Sr., (6-1, 205); QB — Khary Franklin, Jr., (5-6, 165); DT-FB — Devin Simmons, Sr., (5-9, 255); DE — Michael Copeland, Jr., (6-3, 215).
2008 strengths: Both sides of scrimmage will be formidable with several major-college players. Reid may well be the state’s best all-around player.
2008 weaknesses: Perry, a four-year starter, will be hard to replace. But the biggest hurdle may be mental. This team is favored to win it all again, so handling that will be the question.
This season’s projection: From a talent standpoint, this may be the program’s best ever, so all preseason talk of championships rightly start and end at Martin Stadium.
Photos: A look at Lowndes
Week Two Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P-Ridge
• 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette • 4/27: Brookwood
Week One Lineup
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
• 4/18: Camden • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Lowndes in ‘08? Are the Vikes a state title shoo-in? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Brookwood’s got talent, but lacks needed experience
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge • 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Brookwood in ‘08? Will inexperience hamper the Broncos? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
The week before spring practice was to begin for Brookwood, coach Mark Crews and a group of friends took a trip to Mississippi to golf and relax. It was one last chance for Crews to kick back before embarking on perhaps his most challenging season as Broncos coach.
Gone are a group of high-caliber players who carried the team on a nine-game winning streak last year. The 2007 season began with concerns about quarterback and running back, but Terence Davis and Kenny Miles emerged as leaders, and Brookwood maintained its position among the state’s elite programs.
Now, Crews and his staff have more work to do. Davis, Miles and a collection of other pivotal players, including kicker Dawson Zimmerman and key offensive and defensive linemen, are leaving.
Worse, there are no clear-cut replacements.
“It seems like every year we start over,” Crews said after a round of golf. “We have a lot of pieces to put back together. It’s so much of a team game. We’ve got a real challenge as coaches to match talent and personalities with positions. We’re pretty green.
“We’ve got to find a quarterback. We’re not set at running back or any of our skilled positions. So we have more questions this year than ever before.” The answers are so fuzzy Crews did not even provide names of potential candidates.
“There is a lot in the air,” he said. “There are four or five kids we’re going to be looking at running back. Four or five at quarterback. The competition is good. We just hope someone rises to the top.”
Significantly, the offensive and defensive lines were hit hard by graduation. “The lines were always our strengths,” Crews said. “But we have kids growing up in the program from the seventh and eighth grades. We always wind up with a lot of senior linemen because it takes all those years in the weight room building their body.
“We have several juniors who are good athletes. We just have to do a good job of coaching and putting them in the right places. So, it should be both a fun year and scary. You love to see the kids develop as players and young men. You just hope it happens quickly.”
Brookwood Broncos
Region 8-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: May 5-16.
Last year’s record: 9-3, lost in the state quarterfinals.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Brookwood is trying to replace starters in key positions, including QB. Four players are vying for the spot. It’s the same at running back, where Kenny Miles’ emergence saved the team last year.
Key starters lost: QB Terence Davis; RB Kenny Miles; WR/DB Josh Jackson; K Dawson Zimmerman; OL Eric Grube; OL A.J. Mackey; TE Jarrett Mackey; LB Eric Tatum.
Key starters returning: LB Chris Martin; LB David Cooper; S, Wade Brogdon.
2008 strengths: The Brookwood tradition and coaching. The Broncos have a vast feeder program that produces fresh talent yearly. The coaching staff molds the talent. Linebacker Chris Martin is a force.
2008 weaknesses: Inexperience. The Broncos have no identifiable offensive threat. Significantly, the core of Brookwood teams - the offensive line — has been decimated by graduation. And top skill position players will graduate.
This season’s projection: Last year, Terence Davis was a solid pick to play quarterback, and Kenny Miles arose from obscurity into the top running back in the county. The Broncos are hoping several players turn an opportunity into something special. If that happens, the Broncos will be strong. If not, it could be a struggle at times, as players grow into their roles.
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Brookwood in ‘08? Will inexperience hamper the Broncos? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Fayette believes it can repeat ‘07 surprise success
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge • 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
Photos: A look at Fayette
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Fayette in ‘08? Can the Tigers repeat 2007’s success? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
In his short time at Fayette County, Tim Pettaway has seen two major attitude adjustments toward the football team from people around the school.
At first, they didn’t believe in the program, but then the 2007 season got started and it was magic on Tiger Trail.
“Once we started winning, they started taking us in like we were their own,” said Pettaway, who transferred last summer from a school in Massachusetts. “Instead of saying, ‘Who are y’all playing,’ it was, ‘Who are we playing?’”
But 2007 is over, and the good will of the people, Pettaway said, has to be earned again.
“It seems like nobody believes in us,” he said, “but we believe in each other. I have trust in my teammates who are coming up to play. I think we’ll get the job done.”
It remains to be seen how far self-belief will take the Tigers, who count Pettaway as their only returning full-time starter on offense, and he could be playing a new position. A running back last year, he’ll be competing for the quarterback slot when spring drills open Monday.
Fayette coach Tommy Webb characterized it as an open tryout to replace Brandon Boykin, who passed for 416 yards and rushed for 728 last year, when the Tigers averaged 33 points per game.
Whether he’s at quarterback or somewhere else, it seems likely the rebuilding project will center around Pettaway’s skills. He rushed for 556 yards in 2007.
“It’s not that big of a deal,” he said. “I just want to help the offense whatever way I can.”
Fayette Co. Tigers
Region 5-AAAA / Subregion A
Spring practice dates: April 28-May 9.
Last year’s record: 11-1, lost in Class AAAA second round to Bainbridge.
Working on: Offense. The Tigers lost 10 of 11 starters from an offense that scored 346 points in 11 games last year. The good news is they got to play a lot of backups during lopsided victories. But there are big holes to fill, starting with the featured running back slot vacated by Matt Daniels, who rushed for 1,436 yards and 21 touchdowns. QB Brandon Boykin heads off to Athens, and his position is up for grabs.
Key starters lost: QB Brandon Boykin (Georgia), FB Matt Daniels (Duke), DE/TE Barack Little (Colgate).
Key starters returning: RB/DB Tim Pettaway, WR/DB Tashawn Pettaway, DL Malcolm Reed.
2008 strengths: The Tigers held nine opponents to two touchdowns or less, and they return seven starters on defense. The secondary was hit by graduation, but the front seven are intact from a unit that had 58 tackles for losses and forced 30 turnovers. Linebackers Andre Columbus, Evan Reid, Josh Atwater and Chad Jones were mainstays, and all of them are back. “The kids we lost in secondary were big-play players and good kids,” said Webb, but the defense should benefit from playing a lot of players in 2007. “We’ll have to play well early while our offense comes around.”
2008 weaknesses: Inexperience, particularly on offense. Webb expressed little concern about his skilled players, but essentially building the line from the ground up poses a big question mark. But the Tigers have more size than they’ve had the majority of Webb’s five years on the job. “That’ll be a big important part of our spring. We’ll be bigger than we’ve been in the past, but we’ll have to see how well these guys play.”
This season’s projection: A repeat of last year, when the Tigers won 11 games for the first time in school history, seems unlikely.
Comment: “I’m hoping that next year’s team took a lot from what transpired last year in terms of character, how well they did in the classroom and how well they did in the offseason. Like I told them, this is a brand new season, a brand new team. They can’t be riding on last year’s coattails.”
Photos: A look at Fayette
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Fayette in ‘08? Can the Tigers repeat 2007’s success? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Tucker must replace most of defense, find new QB
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge • 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
Photos: A look at Tucker
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Tucker in ‘08? Are the Tigers AAAA contenders? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
It will be remembered as the season that went up in smoke.
Tucker was ahead 28-7 against Northside-Warner Robins, two quarters away from a school-record 14th victory and a trip to the 2007 state finals, when an undefeated season imploded.
After losing nine players on defense to graduation, the questions abound for a team that is widely considered one of the top title contenders in Class AAAA.
“That’s a huge hole to fill,” coach Franklin Stephens said. “It’s going to be a hard hole to fill because, out of those nine kids, you have some very good football players. You’re losing kids who played for two or three years. That’s a lot of experience.”
In 2007, nobody scored on Tucker until the sixth game against Mays. Tucker had seven shutouts, and only three teams scored more than eight points.
Without that level of defense, the offense likely will need to improve. It occasionally sputtered last season against defenses that could match its speed.
Seniors Jonathan Davis and Drayton Calhoun are the only runners with experience.
“Those two individuals are going to have to carry us for a while,” Stephens said. “The great thing about last year is we had depth. This year, we’re going to have some good players, but we’re not going to be nearly as deep. We’re going to have to avoid injuries.”
Tucker Tigers
Region 6-AAAA
Spring practice dates: May 8-20.
Last year’s record: 13-1, lost in the semifinals to Northside-Warner Robins.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: The biggest challenge for Tucker may be replacing nine starters on defense, including the entire secondary. After that, finding a quarterback is next on the agenda for a team that won its first 13 games last season. Tucker will try to decide who’s going to fill the holes on the defense that often carried the team.
Key starters lost: WR/DB Jamoris Slaughter; RB/LB Tristan Carter; WR/DB Derrick Harris; WR/DB Neiko Lipscomb; QB Chris Simpson; TE/LB Marcus Nedd.
Key starters returning: RB/LB Jonathan Davis; RB/DB Drayton Calhoun; OL/DL Malcom Davis; OL/DL Carl Taylor.
2008 strengths: The Tigers should be more athletic and have more speed than most of their opponents. Jonathan Davis is still one of the most talented linebackers in the state.
2008 weaknesses: When depth and experience are two of your biggest strengths one year, they’re often your biggest weakness the next. Tucker will have experienced athletes, just not as many.
This season’s projection: Southwest DeKalb would appear to be the only true test for the Tigers in the new subregion B. There should be no problem reaching the playoffs.
Comment: “We’ve been knocking on the door, and we just need to take that next step up,” Stephens said. “It could have happened for us last year, but it didn’t. That’s always going to be our goal, to win a state championship.”
Photos: A look at Tucker
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Tucker in ‘08? Are the Tigers AAAA contenders? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Peachtree Ridge defense OK, offensive questions linger
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge • 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
Photos: A look at Ridge
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Ridge in ‘08? Is the Lions’ “O” a liability? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Peachtree Ridge doesn’t look like the powerhouse it was the last two years.
The Lions shared the 2006 state crown with Roswell and lost the rematch in controversial fashion in overtime in second round of the playoffs in 2007.
But the defense, led by LSU-bound Kevin Minter at linebacker, should be outstanding. Seven starters return.
Offense is another story. Peachtree Ridge must replace its dual-threat quarterback, Asher Clark, running back Brandon Davis and wideout Derrick Bryant, all Division 1 college signees. Only four starters return on offense.
“Our front seven is experienced, and there’s a lot of talent in the secondary,” coach Bill Ballard said. “Offensively we’re going to have to grow and mature. We’ve got a tough opening part of the season, which ought to get us ready for the region. That’s what our plan is anyway.”
The Lions open at home against Harrison, then visit defending Class AAAAA champion Lowndes before starting region play. They finish against region powers Norcross and North Gwinnett.
Entering his second season at Peachtree Ridge after a successful run at Tucker, Ballard said he’s dealing with a familiar challenge.
“Every year you’re probably going to have one side of the ball that has to be rebuilt,” he said. “We have a lot of guys who we feel got a lot of experience last year, on JV and on varsity, who will be ready to play when the season comes around.”
Peachtree Ridge Lions
Region 7-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: May 6-17.
Last year’s record: 8-4, lost in second round of state playoffs.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Coaches are looking for offensive playmakers at quarterback, running back and wide receiver. Senior Chris Brunatti, last year’s backup quarterback, appears to have the edge over juniors Sterling Jones and Nick Lombardo for the starting spot. “We’re going to see who can hit and who wants to get in there and mix it up,” coach Bill Ballard said about his defense, which returns seven starters.
Key starters lost: QB Asher Clark; WR/DB Derrick Bryant; DB Brandon Sanders; RB Brandon Davis.
Key starters returning: LB Kevin Minter (6-1, 235, Sr.); DL Michael Pate (6-0, 240, Sr.); TE Connor Orr (6-4, 235, Sr.); WR Mitchell Williford (6-4, 200, Sr.); OL Trevor McBurnett (6-4, 295, Jr.).
2008 strengths: Linebacker Kevin Minter and defensive end Michael Pate pace an experienced front seven that should keep the Lions in every game. Cornerback Connor Norman will anchor a talented, but inexperienced, secondary.
2008 weaknesses: The Lions won’t be as explosive as they were last year, when quarterback Asher Clark (Air Force) posed a dangerous dual threat and wideout Derrick Bryant (LSU) was a game-breaker. Running backs Ronnie Smith, Chris Sawdey and Micah Lampton will try to replace Brandon Davis (Central Florida).
This season’s projection: Based on the defense alone, this is a playoff team. How well the offense develops will determine how far the Lions go.
Comment: “We’ve got more question marks on offense, but we do get some guys back who were banged up last year and didn’t get to finish the season,” coach Bill Ballard said, referring to two starting offensive linemen who suffered season-ending knee injuries in the first two weeks of 2007. “That will be big for us.”
Photos: A look at Ridge
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Ridge in ‘08? Is the Lions’ “O” a liability? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Last Week’s Lineup
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
• 4/18: Camden • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
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Spring Football Fling: Buford’s retooling in ‘08, but don’t count Wolves out
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge • 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
Photos: A look at Buford
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Buford in ‘08? Is a title repeat unthinkable? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Jess Simpson knows what he’s losing.
Fifteen starters from his Class AA champion Buford team will graduate this spring, and six will play Division I football. There will be question marks at almost every position.
Just don’t expect Simpson to use the “R” word.
“I don’t like to talk about rebuilding years, because expectations don’t change much in Buford,” the coach said. “I think there’s some potential there. Hopefully by the end of the year, we can compete for a championship.”
The Wolves, who have won the state title four times in the last seven years, are essentially starting over with spring practice. Sessions begin on May 5.
Only four starters will return from the 2007 squad that steamrolled its way to a 15-0 record. So there is significant work to be done, particularly on offense and special teams.
“To say I’m focusing on one thing would be comical,” Simpson said. “There are a lot of opportunities for kids to earn a job.”
Buford has graduated good players before … and continued to win. The Wolves have won seven straight region titles and have not lost to a region opponent since 2000.
No one will take them lightly in Region 6-AA this fall. Nor should they.
Buford Wolves
Region 6-AA
Spring practice dates: May 5-16.
Last year’s record: 15-0, Class AA state champions.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Just about everything. With 15 starters graduating, Buford has major holes to fill on offense, defense and special teams. Senior Michael May and junior Daunte Carr will compete for the starting quarterback job. At most other positions, coaches will use spring practices to get a clearer idea of what their options are.
Key starters lost: DT Omar Hunter’ LB T.J. Pridemore; RB Demetris Murray; WR Melvin Harris; QB Twoey Hosch; LB Jaytee Swanson and RB Alex Hunt.
Key starters returning: OL/DL Dallas Lee; LB Landon Anderson and DE Andrew Sachais.
2008 strengths: Run defense. This has been at the heart of Buford’s success during the last several years. No, the Wolves won’t be as dominant in this area - or any other - as they were in 2007. But Lee, Anderson and Sachais give them a solid defensive foundation against the run.
2008 weaknesses: Pass offense. The Wolves need to decide on a starting quarterback and rebuild their offensive line and receiving corps. At the moment, the only offensive playmakers are tailbacks Cody Getz and Storm Johnson.
This season’s projection: Buford is a long-shot to repeat as state champion. But this program has reloaded before while still winning most of its games and could very well do so again. Look for the Wolves to improve throughout the fall and make a run in the playoffs.
Comment: “This is a scrappy group that we’re really excited about coaching,” Simpson said. “I think there’s a quiet confidence to them. Like, ‘Hey, we know we’re pretty good, and we’ve got something to prove.’ We may not have nine kids signing scholarships next year, but you don’t have to have nine kids signing scholarships to have a good football team.”
Photos: A look at Buford
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Buford in ‘08? Is a title repeat unthinkable? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Last Week’s Lineup
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
• 4/18: Camden • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
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Georgia High School Baseball Blog - April 25, 2008
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Step up to the plate: Pitch YOUR all-class Top 10 Kurt’s way. Hardball is the place to talk high school baseball on ajc.com. We’ll be posting scores as they become available, but if you’ve got the scoop, please feel free to post scores, recaps and highlights. Thanks.
Mea culpa: Unintentional pass on Class AA
A handful of readers have pointed out that Hardball is not giving enough love to Class AA. While the omissions have been unintentional, we’ve decided to make peace by giving you one Class AA title hopeful each week.
Class AA profile: North Oconee
Coach Dwayne Sapp has built quite a program in just four years in Bogart. In each of the program’s first three years, the Titans reached the Class AA playoffs, finally getting past the first round last season. This year’s team has 15 consecutive Region 8-AA victories and will head into this weekend’s region tournament as the favorite.
“It has been a fun year so far, and we’ve won our 15 straight region games, but it won’t mean too much if we don’t take care of our business Friday,” Sapp said. Sapp’s team is hitting .370. His pitching staff has a 2.40 ERA. Justin Driscoll is hitting .481, and two-way threats Michael Vogel (.465 average; 4-1 on mound) and Taylor Hicks (6-1; 9 HR, 40 RBIs) have been sensational.
AJC All-Class Top 10
1. Brookwood (1) — Class AAAA Broncos keep rolling; shut out against Grayson extends winning streak to 13 games.
2. Columbus (2) — Blue Devils wrap up Region 2-AAA title with rout of Northside-Columbus.
3. Harrison (3) — 19-1 Class AAAAA Hoyas get Wednesday chance to avenge only loss to Kennesaw Mountain.
4. Heritage (4) — Shut out of Dacula puts winning streak at 20 games for Class AAAA power.
5. Holy Innocents’ (5) — Bears head into Thursday’s Region 6-AA round-robin as top seed.
6. South Effingham (7) — 3-0 week runs Mustangs’ winning streak to 10 games in Class AAA.
7. East Paulding (8) — Like Harrison, Class AAAA Raiders get a Wednesday chance at avenging only in-state loss to Alexander.
8. Greenbrier (6) — Wolfpack snap losing streak with trouncing of Evans Class AAAA matchup.
9. Kell (10) — Class AAAAA Longhorns face tough Lassiter-Pope-Walton stretch with 10-game winning streak on the line.
10. Kennesaw Mountain (NR) — Last year’s Class AAAAA runner-up has won seven consecutive games.
* Last week’s ranking in parenthesis
Squeeze bunts
No. 4 Heritage looks like one of the top Class AAAA title contenders after its 20th consecutive Region 8-AAAA victory Monday against Dacula. Sophomores Tyler Austin (.700 average, 10 home runs) and Travis Tarleton (nearly .500 average) have been catalysts and run-producers at the top of the lineup. … In North Gwinnett’s 15-5 victory against Norcross, Taylor Forrester hit three home runs and drove in eight. … A year after hitting six home runs, Jeff Davis outfielder/pitcher Kelly Williams already has nine for the Yellow Jackets. … After a 4-6 start against a brutal non-region schedule, Lassiter has allowed 16 total runs in winning its first 11 Region 6-AAAAA games.
Where we will be
On Wednesday, we travel to Dallas for a big Region 5-AAAA game between Alexander and No. 7 East Paulding. On Friday, we head to Lilburn as Landmark Christian and Providence Christian try to get a leg up on the Region 5-A crown. Let us know where you’re headed.
Step up to the plate: Pitch YOUR all-class Top 10 Kurt’s way. Hardball is the place to talk high school baseball on ajc.com. We’ll be posting scores as they become available, but if you’ve got the scoop, please feel free to post scores, recaps and highlights. Thanks.
Friday’s Scores
Alexander 9, South Paulding 0
Alpharetta 5, Chattahoochee 0
Aquinas 7, Hancock Central 0
Butler 11, Glenn Hills 1
Chamblee 13, McNair 3
Cherokee 12, Lithia Springs 0
Dunwoody 11, Carver-Atlanta 1
East Paulding 8, Chapel Hill 4
Etowah 11, McEachern 1, 5 innings
Gainesville 6, White County 5
Greenbrier 11-8, Ware County 0-10
Harlem 6, Cross Creek 5
Jefferson 14, Social Circle 4
Lakeside DeKalb 8, Southwest DeKalb 5
Lakeview Academy 20, Athens Academy 3
Landmark Christian 2, Providence Christian 2
Loganville 9, Heritage 7
Mill Creek 9, Forsyth County 1
Milton 17, Roswell 9
Mundy’s Mill 12, Tri-Cities 1
North Springs 17, Tucker 4
Redan 8, Lithonia 7
Screven County 11, Josey 0
Shaw 15, Spencer 0
Shiloh 12, Central Gwinnett 7
Walton 12, Lassiter 0
Westside-Augusta 6, Southeast Bulloch 4
Woodstock 10, Kennesaw Mountain 5
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Spring Football Fling: Valdosta, still rebuilding, has plenty of holes to fill
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge
4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
Photos: A look at Valdosta
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Valdosta in ‘08? Can the ‘Cats return to form? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Valdosta left with many holes to fill
The building process continues in Valdosta.
Graduation was not kind to the Wildcats, who must replace eight starters on defense and its three best skill-position players - running backs David Arnold and Marcus McNair and quarterback Michael Turner.
Ever-optimistic coach Rick Tomberlin insists he has talent to fill the holes.
Tomberlin points to the fact that the Wildcats’ junior varsity, ninth- and eighth-grade teams excelled last year and that his third year of heavy emphasis in the weight room will reap huge benefits this fall.
Leading the way will be two of the state’s top college prospects - linebacker Michael Gilliard and offensive tackle Tony Foster. Gilliard is considering offers from Georgia, Florida State and Florida, and Foster should play at an ACC or SEC program.
Valdosta Wildcats
Region 1-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: May 5-16
Last year’s record: 9-3, lost in the second round of the state playoffs to M.L. King, 21-18.
Reclassification challenge: As if the region needed another powerhouse, two-time Class AAAA state champion Northside-Warner Robins was forced to move up and was placed in 1-AAAAA.
Working on: The Wildcats made great strides last year by winning nine games and being a play away from reaching the state quarterfinals after winning only one game the season before. Merely surviving Region 1-AAAAA and making a deeper run in state would be considered a success.
Key starters lost: QB Turner (Hutchinson Junior College), RB Arnold (Georgia Southern), RB McNair (Valdosta State), LB Curtis Weatherspoon (Valdosta State).
Key starters returning: LB - Michael Gilliard, Sr., (6-2, 205); LB - Ahmad Williams, Sr., (6-2, 205); DT - Damien Doe, Sr., (5-11, 260); OT - Tony Foster, Sr., (6-4, 290).
2008 strengths: Quickness. The defense lacks experience, but this group will be active. Tomberlin also is convinced his offensive line will be his best. A talented group of wide receivers will be paced by 6-foot-5 sophomore Jay Rome, son of legendary Wildcats QB Stan Rome.
2008 weaknesses: Quarterback. Tomberlin feels the skill and smarts are there - it is just a matter of who will take the helm. Inexperienced seniors Kyle Rowe and Tavoris Belcher and junior Chad Prain lead the pack. The running back situation is in a similar situation.
This season’s projection: Winning a 24th state championship is the ultimate goal. But even getting out of Region 1-AAAAA will be a challenge.
Photos: A look at Valdosta
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Valdosta in ‘08? Can the ‘Cats return to form? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Last Week’s Lineup
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
• 4/18: Camden • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
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Artificial high school football field turf installation a growing trend
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Preparing for the state championships that are now being played on the synthetic turf of the Georgia Dome, Lowndes High has put in an artificial field at Martin Stadium.
Actually, Lowndes had this in the plans before the GHSA voted to put the finals in the Dome. Plowboys have been heard to say that Lowndes just wanted to stop Valdosta’s cheerleaders from grazing on the sidelines. Or was it Valdosta that came up with that joke when Bazemore-Hyder went artificial in 2004? And what would Wright Bazemore think if he couldn’t find a blade of grass on any high school field in Lowndes County?
I’m surprised at myself for liking these new artificial surfaces. I hardly notice they’re there anymore, and economically, they make sense if a school can afford the investment.
When McEachern became Georgia’s first school to install artificial turf on its campus in 2003, the cost was $1.2 million, and that covered Cantrell Stadium and an adjacent practice field. McEachern’s Jimmy Dorsey estimated then that it would save the school $70,000 a year on field maintenance of fields for the lifespan or the artificial turf, which he put at 12 to 15 years.
Now the cost of installation is roughly half that. It makes you wonder if most big schools won’t have natural grass in 10 years.
In metro Atlanta, most Fulton County schools already do. They include Roswell, Chattahoochee, Milton, Banneker and Westlake. Tri-Cities is next. Harrison, St. Pius and Etowah have it. So does Camden County.
Atlanta’s Lakewood Stadium and DeKalb’s Hallford Stadium are artificial, and in their case, it’s virtually a no-brainer because a grass field can’t handle the traffic of the frequent double-headers that shared stadiums must tolerate.
Lakewood’s old faded-green, unforgiving carpet wasn’t what high school football is supposed to be, but the new turf, which I figured I’d never like, is beginning to grow on me.
I’m curious to see what you think of the trend. There’s nothing prettier than the green grass of a high school football field, but it’s becoming too much time and money to keep it that way.
Kick off the debate: Do you like the artificial turf, or prefer real grass? Is this a good use of school or booster club funds? Why do you think Gwinnett County hasn’t followed the trend?
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Spring Football Fling: M.L. King plans for stronger finish this season
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge
4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
Photos: A look at M.L. King
You make the call: What’s the buzz on King in ‘08? Can the Lions top last year’s success? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
King aims to finish strong in ‘08
M.L. King’s motto going into next season is not orginal, but it seems to be a perfect fit for the DeKalb County school.
Lions coach Corey Jarvis admits to borrowing “Finish the Drill” from Georgia coach Mark Richt. Jarvis said that he and his coaching staff have reminded the players throughout the off-season conditioning program about last season’s loss to Walton in the Class AAAAA quarterfinals.
“We have got to finish everything we do strong,” Jarvis said. “We talk about the Walton game and how we didn’t finish the game. We talk about finishing strong. We are sort of piggy-backing off of what Georgia says.”
Last season, King won the school’s first football region championship and completed its first unbeaten regular season. But the Lions must replace seven starters on offense and five on defense. The Lions return linebacker Joel Kight, who was named the Class AAAAA defensive player of the year after recording 153 tackles.
Offensively, King has to replace 1,000-yard rusher Cordellaro Jones and quarterback Jarad Dorsey. Jarvis is confident that a group of reserves and junior-varsity players will be able to fill the void.
“Our JV was pretty good the last couple of years,” Jarvis said. “We have a lot of kids working hard. We had some kids that got some spot play on varsity, so we do have some experience.”
M.L. King Lions
Region 2-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: April 28-May 9.
Last year’s record: 12-1, lost in the quarterfinals.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: The emphasis will be finding a replacement at quarterback and wide receiver. The Lions will add a few wrinkles to their offense during the 10-day practice period. Sophomores Cameron Myers (6-1, 185) and Jack Lester (6-2, 190) go into the spring as the leading candidates to replace QB Jarad Dorsey. Although Joel Kight will get the majority of the work during the spring, sophomore Eian Williams (5-9, 170) and junior Artravious Boyd (5-10, 200) will see a lot of reps. Replacing three starters on the offensive line will be crucial.
Key starters lost: WR Daniel McKayahan (Georgia Tech), OL Aaron Hawkins (Mississippi), DE Tyran Golden (Western Kentucky), DB Lyndrez Leslie (Gardner-Webb), Jarad Dorsey (Howard), OL Darryn Davis (Marshall), OL Xavier Morgan (Stillman), OL Kevin Lalor (Stillman), DL Kami Warner (Virginia State).
Key returning starters: LB Kight, OL Bryce Bell, OL Darryl Martin, SS Fred Barnes, CB Rodriguez Lowe, LB Rashaun Quiovers.
2008 strengths: The Lions will have to rely on their defense until the offense gets it together. Kight, who has drawn interest from several colleges, will team with Quiovers to give the Lions a solid linebacker group. The secondary is expected to be strong with a couple of returning starters back. Last season, the Lions gave up 151 yards and 11 points a game. King should have another fast and athletic defense that will make them region contenders.
2008 weaknesses: The lack of experience on the offensive line will be a major concern with a new quarterback running the offense. Kight will get plenty of carries, but the other backs must step up. The Lions will have plenty of talent, but it is inexperienced.
This season’s projection: Since the school opened in 2002, King has compiled a 56-18 record. There shouldn’t be a letdown. The Lions should be in the region championship hunt and make another playoff run, if the new players produce.
Comments: “It will be hard to tell about this team until we step on the field,” Jarvis said. “We have had a lot of kids make that commitment to the weight room. We have some sophomores and freshmen who have really bulked up over the off-season. We have some teaching to do this spring. We just have to make sure that we understand what we are trying to accomplish.”
Photos: A look at M.L. King
Last Week’s Lineup
4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
4/18: Camden Co. • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
You make the call: What’s the buzz on King in ‘08? Can the Lions top last year’s success? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Newnan duo eager to return Cougars to past glory
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• 4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge
• 4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Newnan in ‘08? Can the Cougars reclaim their past power? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Duo eager to bring title back to Newnan
Yes, it was the result of repetitive work together. But the touchdown pass from Russell Powell to Alan Bonner in Newnan’s victory in Week 3 last fall against South Gwinnett was merely a continuation of a connection that was made when the two players were 5 years old.
“That year, we were on the same baseball team,” said Powell, the Cougars’ quarterback. “And every team we’ve been on in everything we’ve played … we’ve been on the same team since.”
That is, except for middle school, when they went to different schools.
No matter. The pass against South Gwinnett was a breakout moment for the two juniors, sparking a 35-0 rout of the Comets and a 10-game winning streak.
It was a “wheel” route, where Bonner curls into the flat and then rolls up the sideline if the cornerback breaks a certain way. He did, and both Bonner and Powell saw it. Powell’s pass landed in Bonner’s hands in the end zone.
“He pretty much knows what I’m going to do,” said Bonner, “and I know what he’s going to do.”
Even when the Cougars lost 38-35 to North Gwinnett in the state quarterfinals, Powell and Bonner led a comeback charge that fell short.
This fall figures to present more of the same. Powell and Bonner headline a group of 18 returning starters for Newnan, and they’re not shy about talking about championships.
“That’s an everyday conversation,” Powell said. “We want to bring it back to Newnan.”
Newnan Cougars
Region 4-AAAAA, Division B
Spring practice dates: Tentatively scheduled to start the week of May 5.
Last year’s record: 11-2, lost in Class AAAAA quarterfinals to North Gwinnett.
Working on: In a word, intangibles. With a talented and experienced group of players returning - the Cougars lost two starters on offense and three on defense - veteran coach Robert Herring says his main concern is how hard they’re willing to work. “I don’t know that I’ve had many teams that were as focused as we were last year,” Herring said, “but you don’t know how much carry-over you’ll get.” If key skilled players stay healthy, there’s no reason Newnan can’t equal or surpass the success of 2007.
Key starters lost: WR Brandon Clark, TE Kris Yeats, DB Terrell Bridges.
Key starters returning: QB Russell Powell, WR Alan Bonner, RT Raymond Beno, LT Adam Calhoun, FS Alec Ogletree.
2008 strengths: The Cougars have size and speed. The offensive line averages 280 pounds, which Herring said is the biggest he has had in more than 30 years of coaching. Plus, the majority of the skilled players return from a team that scored 426 points (32.8 per game), including Powell, who passed for 2,077 yards and ran for 502. Three other players who surpassed 800 yards of total offense are also back. All-state wide receiver Alan Bonner led the team with 43 catches and 703 receiving yards. The Cougars also return six of their front seven on defense, including all of their linebackers.
2008 weaknesses: The biggest challenge may be settling on a replacement for second-leading receiver Brandon Clark (400 receiving yards and three touchdowns in 2007), who was a strong enough second option to keep opposing defenses honest in their approach to defending Bonner. The defensive secondary will have some new players to surround Ogletree, who drew rave reviews and early recruiting attention as a sophomore last fall.
This season’s projection: It’s hard not to have Newnan in the state title conversation. Predicting them to win the big prize might be stretching it, but then they were predicted to finish fourth in 4-AAAAA last year and rolled to a region crown. This much is certain, though: They’re going to be fun to watch.
Comment: “I think basketball helped him. The things we do at quarterback are the same kind of things that you do as a point guard.” - Newnan coach Robert Herring on quarterback Russell Powell, also the point guard on the school’s basketball team.
Last Week’s Lineup
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
• 4/18: Camden Co. • 4/19: Stephenson • 4/20: Newnan
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Newnan in ‘08? Can the Cougars reclaim their past power? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Stephenson’s goal same as ever - win a state title
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING
In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
4/21: ML King • 4/22: Valdosta • 4/23: Buford • 4/24: P’tree Ridge
4/25: Tucker • 4/26: Fayette Co. • 4/27: Brookwood
Photos: A look at Stephenson
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Stephenson in ‘08? Is this the Jags’ title season? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Stephenson’s goal the same: Win state title
A 17-14 first-round playoff loss to East Coweta last season represented a bitter end for the Stephenson Jaguars.
It was the first time since 2000 that Stephenson hadn’t won at least one playoff game, and it was only the second time during that stretch they didn’t reach double figures in victories.
That history of success sets the bar high, and the expectations haven’t changed.
“We shouldn’t have been in the situation we were in,” Stephenson coach Ron Gartrell said. “Last year, it took a heck of a drive for East Coweta to knock us out. Our goal always is to win the state championship. That hasn’t happened for us yet, so there’s no lack of motivation. We were disappointed last year, but it’s a new year.”
And with the new year comes a new quarterback, albeit the same quarterback who started the final three games of last season.
Geoffrey Thomas will have to play well if the Jags hope to get back where they feel they belong.
“We have a lot of confidence in [Thomas],” Gartrell said. “He’s only one year in terms of experience running the offense, but he has been in the program for three years. It’s his time. Is he good enough to take us where we need to go? I think he is.”
Stephenson Jaguars
Region 2-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: May 5-15.
Last year’s record: 8-3, lost in the first round of playoffs.
Reclassification change: Does not apply.
Working on: Filling gaps on the offensive and defensive fronts will be key because of the graduation of several starters. The Jags’ Geoffrey Thomas got a head start on the quarterback position when he started the team’s final three games. The top rusher is gone, but three solid backs should fill the void.
Key starters lost: QB Rashaad Carter, RB Jerome Rudolph, SS Max Regis, CB Destin Route, LB Josh Elder.
Key starters returning: LB Nigel Mitchell-Thornton, RB Raymond Sanders, WR Jonathan Blackley, DE Joshua Williams, OL Tobias Williams.
2008 strengths: As usual, Stephenson should have plenty of speed, especially at the skill positions. Sanders proved to be a capable back last season, and Thomas performed well in his late-season work at QB.
2008 weaknesses: The Jags’ biggest issues could come up front, where both sides lack depth and experience.
This season’s projection: The team appears in good hands with Thomas at QB, and Mitchell-Thornton is one of the most highly sought-after linebackers in the state. If the offensive line can come together after losing four starters, this team should be a factor.
Comment: “The main thing is the guys who played last year, you pretty much know what they can do,” Gartrell said. “Your focus is establishing some depth. I don’t want to concentrate too much on new offenses, new defenses. We want to find out who the kids are who are going to be aggressive.”
Photos: A look at Stephenson
Last Week’s Lineup
4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
4/18: Camden Co. • 4/19: Newnan • 4/20: Stephenson
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Stephenson in ‘08? Is this the Jags’ title season? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Daunting schedule awaits Camden Co. in ‘08
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• Fri: Camden Co. • Sat: Newnan • Sun: Stephenson
• 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton • 4/17: Harrison
Photos: A look at Camden
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Camden in ‘08? Can the Cats survive their schedule? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Daunting schedule awaits Camden County
Jeff Herron needs to replace his son, the quarterback, his defensive line and his line coach, but the Camden County coach believes his 2008 team could be better than the one that reached the Class AAAAA semifinals in 2007.
The new quarterback will be Christian Milstead, who started at safety and played quite a bit at quarterback as a sophomore when Major Herron was injured. Herron, an honorable mention all-state player, has signed with Lenoir-Rhyne.
“He has been groomed for this for several years, and he has all the intangibles you look for, so we’re really excited about him,” coach Herron said of Milstead. “We don’t think we’ll miss anything there.”
Milstead is a pretty good runner, although not in Major Herron’s class, but Milstead has the stronger and perhaps better arm.
Losing all three starting down linemen on defense is the coach’s biggest concern. Also gone is the defensive line coach, Xarvia Smith, now head coach at Cedar Shoals. Smith will be replaced by Brian Love, who held the same position at McEachern.
Motivation will not be an issue, Herron said.
Aside from the memory of making the semifinals last year, the players and staff can look ahead to a challenging first three games. The schedule shows Norcross in the Georgia Dome on Aug. 23, Florida contender Columbia at home on Sept. 5 and five-time Alabama state champion Hoover on the road on Sept. 12.
Camden County Wildcats
Region 3-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: May 5-16.
Last year’s record: 12-2, lost in Class AAAAA semifinals to eventual champion Lowndes 10-0.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Milstead, a senior, takes over at quarterback, but the more pressing job is rebuilding a defensive line that lost five of its top six players. Camden also lost two of its starting running backs, including Georgia Southern signee A.J. McCray, but Herron doesn’t sound too worried. Halfback Greg Baker will be a three-year starter, and fullback Adrian Alexander is healthy after being lost at midseason because of an ankle injury last year. Also watch for Marquevious Myers, an outstanding tight end last year and perhaps the team’s best all-around player. He’s moving to fullback, a key position in the wing-T. Taking Myers’ place at tight end will be Ryan Attaway, a 6-foot-6, 300-pounder “who can really run,” Herron said. “He’s an unusual one.” Camden lost three starting offensive linemen, including Ryan Seymour to Vanderbilt, but welcomes back center Keegan McClain (6-3, 270). McClain, who might wind up at tackle, was beginning to shine last year before a knee injury in the fifth game ended his season.
Key starters lost: QB Major Herron (Lenoir-Rhyne), G Ryan Seymour (Vanderbilt), T Omar Saenz (Albany State), HB/CB A.J. McCray (Georgia Southern), PK Drake Nahrwold (Cumberland), DL Stephan Myers (Savannah State).
Key starters returning: S/QB Christian Milstead (5-11, 161), HB Greg Baker (5-9, 170), FB Marquevious Myers (6-1, 220), C Nick Siemer (6-3, 280), G Josh Delly (5-9, 200), LB Robert Williams (5-11, 181), LB Ty Booth (5-10, 200), LB Gavin Oliver (5-10, 180), LB Justin Orr (6-2, 203, LB DeWaine Coleman (5-9, 158), CB Michael Green (5-11, 170).
2008 strengths: All five of Camden’s linebackers return. DeWaine Coleman, who weighs only about 160, is perhaps the best of the bunch. Cornerback Michael Green is another all-state candidate. They run to the ball and tackle exceptionally well and should be the core of one of the state’s best dozen defenses. Camden is deep at running back and will be bigger on the lines of scrimmage.
2008 weaknesses: The defensive line is totally rebuilt, but Camden’s offense, which was shut out by Lowndes in the 2007 semifinals, needs to develop playmakers and to become less predictable in the wing-T. Milstead’s arm could make a big difference. Myers is an impressive athlete who could have a breakout season.
This season’s projection: Camden should win its eighth consecutive region title with little resistance. This is a team that can reach the semifinals again and perhaps win its first state title since 2003.
Photos: A look at Camden
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Camden in ‘08? Can the Cats survive their schedule? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: For Harrison, only 2008 constant may be change itself
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• Thurs: Harrison • Fri: Camden Co. • Sat: Newnan
• Sun: Stephenson • 4/14: Roswell • 4/15: Norcross • 4/16: Walton
Photos: A look at Harrison football
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Harrison in ‘08? How will the new-look Hoyas handle change? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Change is in the cards for Harrison
Harrison’s Bruce Cobleigh will tell you he has the same expectations for his football team this season as he does every year - competing for region and state titles, flirting with 10 victories and getting seniors college scholarships.
But there’s only one hitch. It’s not his team anymore. Cobleigh stepped down in March after spending 17 years as the program’s only coach.
“It’s going to be an adjustment,” Cobleigh said. “I’ve been doing it for 33 years. I thought it was the right time. I thought the program was in good shape. I certainly didn’t want to leave it when it wasn’t in good shape.”
School officials would like to have a replacement as early as this week, but even though the name on the head coach’s office is changing, don’t expect the environment to get an overhaul. Harrison is still one of the best jobs in the state because of state-of-the-art facilities and a talented group returning.
“I’ve come in where other guys had a job, but the best part about kids is they are resilient,” Cobleigh said. “That’s how they can bounce back from the losses. Our guys like to play in the games. I feel confident our principal is going to hire a great football coach, and those kids are just going to rally around them because they want to play. It’ll take [the new coach] 10 minutes to get them ready to go.”
The pieces are certainly in place for Cobleigh’s successor. Ten starters return from last season’s playoff team. Cobleigh expects the same success his program has reaped every year.
He just won’t be around to see much of it.
“The last thing anyone needs is me around,” Cobleigh said. “Would you want the ex-coach hanging around? I’m going to be there if [the new coach] needs something.”
Harrison Hoyas
Region 5-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: April 28-May 16.
Last year’s record: 9-3, lost in the second round.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Harrison will be in limbo until a new coach is named. Cobleigh’s team ran the wing-T and a 4-4 defense, so there probably will be an adjustment to a new coaching philosophy. The Hoyas also are looking for depth on defense, where only three starters return, and wide receivers to emerge.
Key starters lost: WR Darvin Adams, RB Jamal Austin, RB Alphonso Griffin, SS Brandon Lane, K Eric Cobleigh, P Ryan Hill.
Key starters returning: C Nick Jackson, TB Robbie Godhigh, LB Bradley Mears, QB Christian Burnett.
2008 strengths: There’s a lot to like about the seven offensive starters coming back. Jackson is a Division I recruit at center and anchors four of five returning linemen. Godhigh rushed for 1,100 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2007, but will be missing Griffin and Austin to share the load. Enter junior Andre Williams, the Cobb County 200-meters champion. The defensive interior also features three returning starters. Burnett is a smart and steady quarterback entering his third season of starting experience.
2008 weaknesses: Aside from the three returning interior defensive players, there’s nothing else. The Hoyas lost the entire secondary, outside linebackers and defensive ends. Harrison will need depth there. The loss of Adams takes away experience and skill at wide receiver. The Hoyas will be looking to replace most of the unit. Kicker Charlton Gutierrez will need to develop as the starter.
This season’s projection: Everything should be in position for another region title push, but that depends on the new head man. The Hoyas feature a veteran offense guided by strong quarterback and talented backfield, but until the new coach is hired, who knows what parts Harrison is looking for. Even with the question marks, Harrison usually has the talent for a region title and run into the playoffs.
Comment: “The group coming back is really a lot of fun to be with,” Cobleigh said. “They really like to play. That was the difficult part, not being able to coach these seniors, who are a really fun bunch. These guys truly like to play. So they’re going to be fine. They’re going to be competitive like they always are.”
Photos: A look at Harrison football
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Harrison in ‘08? How will the new-look Hoyas handle change? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Spring Football Fling: Walton facing stiff competition for playoff berths
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• Weds: Walton • Thurs: Harrison • Fri: Camden Co.
• Sat: Newnan • Sun: Stephenson • 4/14: Roswell
• 4/15: Norcross
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Walton in ‘08? Will the playoff run continue? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Photos: A look at Walton football
Walton faces much harder road to playoffs
Walton’s dominance in East Cobb probably will continue this year, but its impressive playoff streak will be a little tougher to extend.
The Raiders have made the playoffs seven consecutive seasons and appeared in the Class AAAAA semifinals at the Georgia Dome last December under coach Ed Dudley. Why could season No. 8 be more challenging? Unlike recent years, when Walton played a subregion schedule and just had to be one of the top two teams out of East Cobb, the Region 6-AAAA coaches voted for change after last season. Now each team will play a full region schedule, and the top four teams overall will advance to the playoffs.
Walton will have to compete against Roswell, Centennial, Milton and Chattahoochee, among others, for postseason berths.
“I’m sure there will be some good teams out of East Cobb, but it’s hard to know which ones, at this point, because there are so many questions to be answered with all the coaching changes,” Dudley said.
Dudley feels confident about the Raiders making a run for the playoffs, especially since they were 8-0 against 6-AAAAA teams last year on the way to a 12-2 finish.
“We expect to be a playoff team every year, and we’re not going to back off that,” Dudley said. “We’re going to have to work a little harder this year, but we certainly expect and want to be back in the playoffs.”
Walton lost 11 starters from one of the best teams in school history, including all-purpose back J.J. Jackson and defensive end Chase Thomas, who set team records for single-season and career sacks. But hopes remain high for the Raiders because of last season’s appearance in the Georgia Dome and an influx of young, but unproven, talent.
Walton Raiders
Region 6-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: May 1-16.
Last year’s record: 12-2, lost in the semifinals.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: It all starts with finding a tailback, which will determine whether or not the Raiders will stick with the Pro Set offense next year or add more passing. Andre Walkine and Brandon Burroughs are among the top tailback candidates to replace J.J. Jackson, who rushed for 1,841 yards and 22 touchdowns. Walton has some talented youngsters to fill three of four spots on the defensive line. The primary concern on defense is to identify two cornerbacks. Said coach Ed Dudley: “Most teams are lucky to have one shutdown corner. We had two last year, with Billy Burns and Robert Harrison. That’s a pretty big issue for us.”
Key starters lost: DE Chase Thomas (signed with Stanford); OL Austin Quattrochi (Southern Miss); OL Nick Gipson (UT-Chattanooga); Zach Tenuta (Marshall); Adam Shreiner (Elon); Jackson (UT-Chattanooga); Harrison (UT-Chattanooga).
Key starters returning: QB Ray Rayburn; LB Scott Willoch; LB Miles Freberg.
2008 strengths: Rayburn was the co-starter at QB last year, but now will handle it alone with the graduation of Brandon Theobald. He has one of Cobb County’s top wide receivers, Price Garrett, who has led the team in receptions the past two seasons. David Paulsen will be moved from DL to DE, and already has offers from Stanford and Miami of Ohio.
2008 weaknesses: With the departure of 11 starters, Walton will put plenty of new faces on the field. Walton had one of the state’s top kicking games last season and will be depending heavily on Brady Biggers to handle kicking and punting duties.
This season’s projection: Walton is favored to make the playoffs for the eighth year in a row under Dudley, but it will be much tougher this season.
Comment: “Last year was good to us [appearing in semifinals] and gave our program a lot of momentum,” Dudley said. “It generated a lot of excitement and gave us a tremendous amount of momentum going into the off-season. There’s a lot of pressure on us to keep performing at a high level, and the kids seem to thrive with that kind of pressure.”
Photos: A look at Walton football
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Walton in ‘08? Will the playoff run continue? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Georgia High School Baseball Blog - April 15, 2008
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Step up to the plate: Pitch YOUR all-class Top 10 Kurt’s way. Hardball is the place to talk high school baseball on ajc.com. We’ll be posting scores as they become available, but if you’ve got the scoop, please feel free to post scores, recaps and highlights. Thanks.
Big bats come out to play
Fans of the low-scoring pitchers’ duels might have cringed more than once last Friday evening. Four teams were involved in two high-scoring affairs totaling 69 runs and more.
The North Forsyth Raiders outlasted North Gwinnett, 20-14. The Raiders hit a school-record six home runs. Tyler Slaton had two, and home run leader Bones Dalken’s grand slam was his sixth of the season. Trice Riddle, Steven Hester and Jacob Otwell (team-high 22 RBIs) also added homers.
While North Forsyth was holding off the defending Region 7-AAAAA champion Bulldogs, South Effingham and Richmond Hill were locked in a slugfest of their own. South Effingham trailed 10-0 after one inning and 15-10 heading into the seventh until Jace Daley ripped a game-tying, two-run double. In the eighth inning, Chris Zittrouver hit a three-run home run, and No. 7 South Effingham added two more in an improbable 20-15 victory.
AJC All-Class Top 10
1. Brookwood (1) — Broncos have won 10 straight, scored 10 or more runs in nine games this season.
2. Columbus (2) — Blue Devils winning the close ones and the laughers; unbeaten in 2-AAA.
3. Harrison (3) — Hoyas sweep double-header from Pope, are 17-1.
4. Heritage (4) — Pitching staff has allowed 24 runs during 18-game winning streak.
5. Holy Innocents’ (5) — 10-game winning streak.
6. Greenbrier (6) — A 4-5 record since 10-0 start.
7. South Effingham (7) — Catcher John Roberts still hitting — 12 home runs and 38 RBIs.
8. East Paulding (8) — Raiders look like top dog in 5-AAAA again.
9. Dunwoody (10) — No losses vs. Georgia teams since March 5.
10. Kell (NR) — Longhorns have won seven straight.
* Numbers in parenthesis are last week’s ranking
Class A notables
• Has anyone noticed 15-2 Claxton? The Region 3-A Tigers, who struggled last season to a 2-10 finish and a sixth-place finish in league play, have won nine consecutive games and are tied atop 3-A with Calvary Day. The diminutive Harley Hendrix, 5-foot-11,155-pounds, picked up a victory against Calvary and improved to a staff-leading 7-0.
• It probably would be hard to find a single member of the Clinch County baseball team who won’t be sad to see Lanier County’s seniors graduate. Lanier defeated Clinch, 2-1, giving the Bulldogs graduating class eight consecutive victories against their Region 1-A rivals.
• Opponents have had a hard time keeping Hebron Christian outfielder/second baseman Bobby Cole off base. The senior has a .750 on-base percentage and a .640 batting average.
Squeeze bunts
Union Grove right-hander Nathan Fawbush has 55 strikeouts in 35 innings for the Wolverines, 7-1 in Region 2-AAAAA. … Cherokee’s Chris Wakefield has 64 strikeouts in 35 1/3 innings, and opponents are hitting .135 against the senior right-hander. …Valdosta State commitment Patrick Henry is hitting .614 with 23 RBIs and is 6-0 with a 1.65 ERA for 15-2 Flowery Branch. … Junior outfielder David Carter has been red-hot for Sprayberry, getting hits in 14 of his last 16 at-bats to improve his average to .521 with a team-high 27 RBIs.
Step up to the plate: Pitch YOUR all-class Top 10 Kurt’s way. Hardball is the place to talk high school baseball on ajc.com. We’ll be posting scores as they become available, but if you’ve got the scoop, please feel free to post scores, recaps and highlights. Thanks.
Friday’s Scores
Alexander 18, Lithia Springs 5
Armuchee 18, Temple 5
Brookwood 6, Shiloh 0
Butler 1, Hancock Central 0
Callaway 3, Heard County 1
Cass 11, Villa Rica 1
Chattahoochee 6, Wheeler 4
Coffee 8, Wayne County 4
Dalton 4, Northwest Whitfield 1
Druid Hills 13, McNair 0
Etowah 10, Murray County 1
Gilmer 15, Johnson-Gainesville 0
Greenbrier 13, Evans 0
Harlem 7, Thomson 1
Henry County 3, Ola 2
Hillgrove 7, Sequoyah 6
Kell 8, Roswell 1
Jackson 2, Woodland-Stockbridge 1
Jefferson 11, Hebron Christian 1
Lakeside-DeKalb 6, Southwest DeKalb 1
Lassiter 4, Milton 1
Loganville 9, Winder-Barrow 5
Lovejoy 9, Forest Park 6
Manchester 15, Macon County 5
Miller County 14, Calhoun County 7
Miller Grove 13, Mays 2
Monticello 7, Hancock Central 0
Mundy’s Mill 12, Morrow 4
North Gwinnett 11, Collins Hill 6
North Forsyth 7, Peachtree Ridge 1
Pacelli 16, Greenville 1
Pike County 13, Marion County 5
Pope 6, Centennial 2
Redan 13, Newton 3
Ringgold 8, Ridgeland 6
Sandy Creek 16, Haralson County 0
Savannah Christian 13, Charlton County 8
Shaw 18, Kendrick 0
South Forsyth 7, Duluth 4
St. Pius 13, Cedar Grove 2
Tattnall County 7, East Laurens 5
Taylor County 4, Brookstone 2
Telfair County 7, Montgomery County 5
Tucker 18, Columbia 6
Wesleyan 13, Paideia 0
Wesleyan 12, Cross Keys 0
Wilkinson County 17, Glascock County 4
Westminster 17, Carver-Atlanta 1
Woodstock 17, Marietta 0
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Spring Football Fling: Norcross still seeking deep playoff run, state title
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
• Tues: Norcross • Weds: Walton • Thurs: Harrison
• Fri: Camden Co. • Sat: Newnan • Sun: Stephenson
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Norcross in ‘08? Are they a deep playoffs team? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Photos: A look at Norcross football
For Norcross, devil’s in details of development
In his 10th year, Keith Maloof has compiled a record of 63-33. Many of his early teams struggled with inconsistency, but the Blue Devils turned the corner a few years ago and established themselves as one of the premier teams in Gwinnett County, if not the state.
After going undefeated through the regular season in 2006, the Blue Devils followed that with a 9-1 record last season before a disappointing loss in the second round of the state playoffs.
Although Norcross has fallen short of its championship aspirations, no team in Class AAAAA has compiled a better record, 22-3, in the last two years.
“We’re one of the top programs in the state, if you go by record-wise,” Maloof said. “The kids know what they have to do to get in the playoffs. The last two years, we’ve got to the second or third round, and now we want to build on that and get into the semifinals and finals. That’s our goal.”
Norcross lost four Division 1 players and a handful of others to smaller colleges, but Maloof, like other top programs, has an abundance of talent waiting in the wings. Running back D.J. Adams has offers from Notre Dame, Boston College, Clemson, Maryland, Wake Forest and others. Defensive back/receiver Prince Kent has offers from Georgia, Florida, LSU, Miami, Arkansas, Mississippi State and others. Norcross will look to keep a balanced offensive attack, Maloof said, but look for Adams to carry more of the load. The senior back will need help from the offensive line, which lost three starters.
“We’re in a league where you’ve got to have people up front who can get the job done,” Maloof said. “The kids have worked hard over the off-season. I’m kind of excited to see how much they progressed and developed over the last three months.”
Norcross Blue Devils
Region 7-AAAAA
Spring practice dates: April 28-May 9.
Last year’s record: 10-2.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Have to replace blue-chip receivers, but two Division 1 prospects, Prince Kent and Matt Autry, are capable. Quarterback Charles King, who split time last season, should be ready to run the show. Must fill holes in defensive secondary, which lost three starters.
Key starters lost: QB Nick Sorel; WR Brice Butler; WR/DB Devonta Bolton; DB Tyler Maloof; DE John Kelly; DB Alex Napper; LB Dion DuBose.
Key starters returning: RB D.J. Adams; OL Manuel Munoz; OL Max Garcia; LB Stephen Smith; DB Prince Kent; TE Marquis Lovett.
2008 strengths: Adams, who ran for more than 1,400 yards as a junior, could go past 2,000 yards. Defenses will struggle to stop him. King is a dangerous runner at QB and has a solid arm. Receivers Kent and Autry are 6-foot-3 and can go get the ball. Defensively, Smith came on late last year and he will be a leader of an always aggressive, hard-hitting defense.
2008 weaknesses: Inexperience at receiver and in the secondary appear to be the biggest question marks. Also need some big bodies on the offensive and defensive lines to step up.
This season’s projection: There’s no reason to think that Norcross won’t be a playoff team and a contender for the state title. Comment: “Obviously, we’ve got D.J. coming back, so we ought to have a strong running game,” Maloof said. “And we’ve got Prince Kent and Matt Autry, so we’ve got about three or four receivers we know we can go to. Defensively we’ve got some holes to fill, but we’ve just to keep getting better.”
Photos: A look at Norcross football
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Norcross in ‘08? Will they reach their championship goal? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Spring Scouting Report: Roswell DISCUSS
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The Great High School Football State Debate: Who’s producing top players?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Where is the best high school football played? I’m talking states now, not North Georgia vs. South Georgia.
I’ve been thinking about that since last week, when there was a little back-and-forth on the blog with a fan from Texas, who felt that Georgia played decent football, but nothing that should be compared to what takes place in the Longhorn State. So I did a little research in an attempt to quantify this and came up with some lists.
The first is the number of players by state who signed with ACC or SEC schools in February. I added those numbers myself. (Don’t want you to think I’m lazy.) I’d like to add the other four BCS conferences and do this nationwide so that we can compare Georgia and Texas. I’ll try to have that by tomorrow. It could be very interesting.
Below that list I’ve got the number of NFL players per state, then the number of NFL players per state PER CAPITA.
NFL players aren’t the best measure of the strength of high school football by state, but my per-capita list makes a definitive statement about what region of the country has the most football talent. Hint: The Atlanta Journal once covered it like the dew. OK, to the lists …
Kick off the debate: Where IS the best high school football played? Check out Todd’s lists below, then tell us what you think.
States with the most SEC/ACC signees in February
(Florida has twice the population as Georgia; I hear that Florida has a couple of hundred more senior citizens)
Florida: 118
Georgia: 71
Alabama: 43
Virginia: 39
South Carolina: 32
North Carolina: 29
Louisiana: 23
Arkansas: 14
Maryland: 14
New Jersey: 11
California: 10
Pennsylvania: 10
Ohio: 9
Kentucky: 8
Mississippi: 7
States with the most NFL players
California: 198
Texas: 173
Florida: 169
Georgia: 84
Ohio: 65
Pennsylvania: 65
Louisiana: 62
Virginia: 56
North Carolina: 53
South Carolina: 49
Mississippi: 47
Illinois: 47
Alabama: 46
States with the most NFL players PER CAPITA
Mississippi
Louisiana
South Carolina
Florida
Alabama
Georgia
Texas
Virginia
Hawaii
North Carolina
(Don’t let Hawaii fool you. It is the most Southern state in the U.S., for what it’s worth.)
Kick off the debate: Where IS the best high school football played? Do you buy Todd’s NFL per capita regional argument or are you sold on the strict state-by-state stats? Or do you just say “MY state. Duh”? Tell us.
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Spring Football Fling: Roswell faces season of rebuilding under new coach
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
THE SPRING FOOTBALL FLING In upcoming weeks, teams throughout the state will spend 10 days on the practice field preparing for the 2008 football season. In a series of stories, ajc.com will provide an offseason outlook for 25 of the top teams in the metro and state.
This Week’s Lineup
Mon: Roswell • Tues: Norcross • Weds: Walton • Thurs: Harrison
• Fri: Camden Co. • Sat: Newnan • Sun: Stephenson
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Roswell in ‘08? Still an elite program or in a rebuilding year? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
Roswell: Replace, rebuild, rebound while retaining respect
Roswell’s football team will take the field for spring workouts next month without 31 players who graduated. That should be challenge enough. But it also appears the program will begin those workouts without a head coach.
Tim McFarlin unexpectedly resigned two weeks ago, and although receivers coach John Coen has been put in charge of football operations, he, athletics director Mike Power and principal Ed Spurka continued interviewing for McFarlin’s replacement last week.
“The program’s going to continue being in great shape,” McFarlin said. “It was in great shape when I inherited it [10 years ago], and it will be next fall.”
The Hornets will be playing for a ninth consecutive winning season, a sixth straight playoff appearance, a chance to match their region titles of 2000 and ‘05 and a 2006 Class AAAAA state co-championship with Peachtree Ridge.
Every coach since the program began in the GHSA in the 1950s has been promoted from within, and Spurka said a new head coach likely will come from Roswell’s current staff. With offensive coordinator Gary Varner having accepted a head coaching job at Allatoona, a new school in Cobb County, defensive coordinator Leo Barker is believed to be the Hornets’ frontrunner.
“Leo’s the main reason we won that state championship,” McFarlin said. “He’d do a great job [as head coach].”
The new coach will be challenged to replace key players, including three-year quarterback Dustin Taliaferro, who signed with Samford, and running back Alex Daniel, who signed with Northwestern. Also gone are kicker Jim Broadway, who is playing at Miami of Ohio; defensive end Curtis Hazelton, who is at Duke; and linebacker Ebele Okakpu, who is at North Carolina.
Roswell Hornets
Region 6-AAAAA • Photos
Spring practice dates: May 6-20.
Last season’s record: 10-3, lost in state quarterfinals to Lowndes County, 31-20.
Reclassification challenge: Does not apply.
Working on: Despite the abrupt resignation of McFarlin and the graduation of 31 players, the Hornets are seeking to continue continuity from the last two seasons, when they shared a Class AAAAA championship with Peachtree Ridge and reached the quarterfinals against Lowndes.
Key starters lost: OL - Travis Dupart, 6-2, 250, (Valdosta State); K - Broadway, 6-0, 170, (Miami of Ohio); RB - Daniel, 5-11, 200, (Northwestern); WR - Garrett Embry, 6-3, 210, (Oregon); DE - Hazelton, 6-2, 255, (Duke); FS - LaVelle Larry, 6-0, 205, (); LB - Okakpu, 6-2, 210, (North Carolina); QB - Taliaferro 6-3, 205, (Samford)
Key players returning: OT - Cade Yates, Sr., (6-1, 275); FB - Emmerson Plantico, Sr., (5-11, 230); WR - Donnovan Bennett, Sr., (5-11, 165), WR - Tailor Jones, Jr. (6-0, 170); WR/S - Keegan Hughes, Jr., (6-0, 175); DE - Foo Dorsett, Jr., (6-0, 245); NG - Brayden Knudson, Jr. (5-10, 250), CB - Tyler Watson, So. (6-0, 170)
2008 strengths: Speed should again be plentiful, particularly offensively, with Plantico in the offensive backfield and Jones, Bennett and Hughes as wideouts. Like last season, when the Hornets allowed only 11 points a game, defensive speed should be key as well.
2008 weaknesses: Interim head coach Coen will have to find replacements for offensive linemen Travis Dupart, Brandon Reynolds, Tyler Lippincott and Matt Cobb, as well as a linebacking group depleted by the loss of Okakpu, Zach Waddell and Kyle Gruskowski. A huge vacancy remains at quarterback.
This season’s projection: Promoting its new head coach from within, as it has for roughly 50 years, might go far toward extending the Hornets’ run of eight playoff appearances and two region championships in McFarlin’s 10 seasons. The cupboard is not bare. There is considerable talent coming up from last season’s dominant junior varsity and freshmen programs.
You make the call: What’s the buzz on Roswell in ‘08? Still an elite program or in a rebuilding year? Games start in August. Talk starts NOW.
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Take 10: Best high school sports movies
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Around Take Ten Headquarters, if we’re not watching sports, we’re probably catching the latest movie. Yes, we’ve been to Oscar parties. And yes, we may have dressed up like Humphrey Bogart for Halloween last year. We confess. So with the Atlanta Film Festival starting this week, we have the perfect excuse to combine our two favorite things.
Vote for your favorite! Check our photos from the Take 10 movie list. Then pick or pan Jeff’s list. Photos: Rate Take 10’s favorite films
These are the top 10 high school sports movies of all-time:
10. America Brown (2004) This is an independent film about a West Texas high school football star who doesn’t know where to go with his life after his older brother dies, so he takes a bus to Brooklyn to talk to his school’s last great player, who is now a Catholic priest.
9. Friday Night Lights (2004) It’s not as good as the TV show it spawned, but it isn’t bad. Billy Bob Thornton does well as the small-town Texas high school team’s gruff coach, and even country music star Tim McGraw shows he can act in this one, playing an abusive father who wants his son to be a star player.
8. Hellfighters (2007) When he sees there isn’t a high school football team for kids in Manhattan, former NFL player Duke Fergerson tries to assemble a team from different high schools on the island. This documentary looks at their struggles to piece together a team, become eligible to compete and what happens when the different kids join together.
7. He Got Game (1998) You watch this movie and wonder why it’s the only time NBA star Ray Allen has starred in a film. He plays the nation’s top-ranked high school basketball player with an imprisoned father (Denzel Washington) trying to reduce his own sentence by directing his son toward playing for Big State.
6. Finding Forrester (2000) It’s hard to believe Rob Brown was just 16 when he played Jamal Wallace, a high school kid who could play basketball but was an even better writer who finally got some direction from the reclusive William Forrester (Sean Connery).
5. Remember the Titans (2000) Denzel Washington plays the coach of a new D.C.-area football team formed when a white and black school were integrated into one in 1971. It avoids being preachy but still gets across its message.
4. Go Tigers! (2001) This documentary is like the real-life “Friday Night Lights,” looking at a football season at a Masillion, Ohio, high school. It looks deeply at the players, coaches and community on and off the field; seeing it all up close is pretty fascinating.
3. The Basketball Diaries (1995) It’s dark, disturbing and mildly depressing, three qualities we love in a movie. Before “Titanic” became the biggest scourge ever on teen-age boys trying to go on dates, an unknown Leonardo DiCaprio played a high school basketball player addicted to drugs and spiraling out of control.
2. Hoop Dreams (1994) The best of three documentaries on this list, Hoop Dreams follows William Gates and Arthur Agee, talented high school basketball players living in the Cabrini Green housing project in Chicago. You watch them through all four years of school, trying to earn a college scholarship. Great stuff.
1. Hoosiers (1986) Even on a list of non-high school sports movies, this one might end up No. 1. Gene Hackman, Dennis Hopper, small-town Indiana basketball, a great underdog story. It should be illegal for a high school sports fan not to enjoy this movie.
Vote for your favorite! Check our photos from the Take 10 movie list. Then pick or pan Jeff’s list. Photos: Rate Take 10’s favorite films
Go on. Take Ten. What’s your favorite high school sports movie? Do any of these not belong on the list? What should we add? Here’s your chance to show what a big movie nerd you really are.
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Georgia High School Baseball Blog
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The staff at Hardball holds no bias against non-metro Atlanta baseball teams, and we sometimes venture outside the metro area to find some great teams you may not know about. Here’s a look at three of the best from beyond the perimeter.
Pierce County, Blackshear
Despite dropping their first game on Monday against Toombs County, the Class AA Bears from Southeast Georgia are 15-1 and are threatening to improve last year’s victory total of 25. Senior right-handed pitcher Caleb Lairsey and junior left-hander David O’Neal are each 5-0, and last year’s state pitching leader Hugh Lee is getting back to form after recovery from two strained forearms. Scary thought for opponents.
South Effingham, Guyton
The Mustangs reached the state semifinals in three of coach Tony Kirkland’s first four seasons. It looks promising for a return trip for the Southeast Georgia team with seniors Colby May (University of Georgia commit) and John Roberts (Armstrong Atlantic State commit) creating havoc for opposing pitchers. Roberts has 10 home runs and 34 RBIs in 15 games while hitting behind May in the lineup.
Aquinas, Augusta
Everyone knows Augusta’s other baseball powerhouse, two-time Class AAAA champion Greenbrier. But the Fighting Irish are 17-1 after Monday’s victory against St. Pius. Aquinas has reached the state playoffs in each of the last three seasons, reaching the quarterfinals in 2007 after consecutive first-round exits.
Pike County, Zebulon
The departure of Boston Red Sox minor-leaguer Hunter Strickland hasn’t slowed the Class AA Pirates, who are 14-2 and unbeaten in eight Region 5-AA games. Pike County, located 50 miles south of Atlanta, reached the state playoffs in each of coach Don Hanson’s four seasons. The 2008 team, which has won 10 consecutive games, is led by senior pitcher D.J. Tice and senior catcher Butch Brown.
AJC Top 10
1. Brookwood (1): Broncos on seven-game winning streak.
2. Columbus (4): Only two losses were one-run setbacks to Brookwood and Parkview.
3. Harrison (2): Loss to Kennesaw Mountain not a bad one, especially after the Hoyas dropped McEachern earlier in the week.
4. Heritage (7): Patriots haven’t lost since March 1.
5. Holy Innocents’ (6): Ace Mark Grimm looking good for defending AA champs.
6. Greenbrier (3): Slipped with consecutive losses to Lakeside-Evans and Marist.
7. South Effingham (9): Matt Zettler 5-0 on mound for 11-4 Mustangs.
8. East Paulding (8): Only one loss to Georgia schools.
9. Valdosta (9): 2-1 week capped by region victory against Coffee.
10. Dunwoody (NR): Defending Class AAA champs have won 10 straight.
(X) - last week’s rating.
Squeeze bunts
Chase Hawkins had a fun night in No. 1 Brookwood’s 8-3 victory against Parkview: CG, 3 hits, 0 earned runs, 6 strikeouts, victory on the mound; 3-for-3, 3 RBIs. … Jackson County starter Trevor Booth pitched back-to-back shutouts in victories against Clarke Central and Dacula. … No. 9 Valdosta is 15-2 because of Kyle Rowe, who is 7-0.
Friday’s Scores
Alexander 18, Lithia Springs 5
Armuchee 18, Temple 5
Brookwood 6, Shiloh 0
Butler 1, Hancock Central 0
Callaway 3, Heard County 1
Cass 11, Villa Rica 1
Chattahoochee 6, Wheeler 4
Coffee 8, Wayne County 4
Dalton 4, Northwest Whitfield 1
Druid Hills 13, McNair 0
Etowah 10, Murray County 1
Gilmer 15, Johnson-Gainesville 0
Greenbrier 13, Evans 0
Harlem 7, Thomson 1
Henry County 3, Ola 2
Hillgrove 7, Sequoyah 6
Kell 8, Roswell 1
Jackson 2, Woodland-Stockbridge 1
Jefferson 11, Hebron Christian 1
Lakeside-DeKalb 6, Southwest DeKalb 1
Lassiter 4, Milton 1
Loganville 9, Winder-Barrow 5
Lovejoy 9, Forest Park 6
Manchester 15, Macon County 5
Miller County 14, Calhoun County 7
Miller Grove 13, Mays 2
Monticello 7, Hancock Central 0
Mundy’s Mill 12, Morrow 4
North Gwinnett 11, Collins Hill 6
North Forsyth 7, Peachtree Ridge 1
Pacelli 16, Greenville 1
Pike County 13, Marion County 5
Pope 6, Centennial 2
Redan 13, Newton 3
Ringgold 8, Ridgeland 6
Sandy Creek 16, Haralson County 0
Savannah Christian 13, Charlton County 8
Shaw 18, Kendrick 0
South Forsyth 7, Duluth 4
St. Pius 13, Cedar Grove 2
Tattnall County 7, East Laurens 5
Taylor County 4, Brookstone 2
Telfair County 7, Montgomery County 5
Tucker 18, Columbia 6
Wesleyan 13, Paideia 0
Wesleyan 12, Cross Keys 0
Wilkinson County 17, Glascock County 4
Westminster 17, Carver-Atlanta 1
Woodstock 17, Marietta 0
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Hottest high school football games coming in 2008
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The GHSA has not released football schedules for 2008, but most schools are set for the fall. I can’t recall a year with so many intriguing early season matchups. I’ve highlighted 10 nuggets about the 2008 schedule.
Days and games to mark on your calendar
The Corky Kell Classic: The four games that open the season on Aug. 23 are pretty typical: Norcross vs. Camden County, McEachern vs. Grayson, Starr’s Mill vs. Etowah and Brookwood vs. Walton. You’ve got four of Class AAAAA’s reigning region champions going head-to-head in Norcross (Region 7), Camden (3), Walton (6) and Brookwood (8). Norcross and Camden have never played each other. It has been almost 20 years for Brookwood and Walton, two schools that are similar in many ways, most notably their excellence in all sports.
North Gwinnett doubleheader, Aug. 29: Does this event have a name? Byrnes High — which has won five state titles in six seasons in South Carolina — plays the host team, while Central Gwinnett plays Mainland of Daytona Beach, which went 8-4 last season.
Peachtree Ridge: The Lions are cashing in on their new status as a state power by lining up a date at home against Harrison (Aug. 29) and one on the road against Lowndes (Sept. 5).
Tucker at Brunswick, Aug. 29: For the first time in two seasons, Tucker gets to venture outside its region. Brunswick has made the playoffs the past three seasons.
Buford vs. Mansfield Timberview at Texas Stadium on Aug. 30: The only thing I can’t figure is how Buford was asking to be put in a new region to cut down on travel. Now, the Wolves are going to Dallas. Not that I blame them. The good thing for Buford is that it’s an 11 a.m. start. Buford is used to that because of the Georgia Dome semifinals and thus should cruise while Mansfield is still snoozing. Mansfield, from Arlington, Texas, was 9-4 last season.
Camden vs. Columbia (Fla.) and Charlton County vs. First Coast (Fla.), Sept. 6: This doubleheader at Camden features region champions from Florida and Georgia.
Camden at Hoover High of Alabama, Sept. 12: This game matches state powers from Georgia and Alabama. Hoover is the team made famous by the MTV series “Two-A-Days.” Camden has won more games than any other school over the past five years in Georgia’s highest class. I assume that Hoover can say the same for itself in Alabama.
Northside-Warner Robins at Carver-Columbus, Sept. 12: It’s the Class AAAA champions vs. the Class AAA champions. Northside’s schedule is the best in the state. Carver lost QB DeRon Furr (Auburn) and WR Jarmon Fortson (FSU), but returns 11 starters and LB Jarvis Jones.
Stephens County at LaGrange, Sept. 12: East vs. West Georgia, state powers in Class AAA going at it.
Northside-Warner Robins at Lowndes, Oct. 3: I’m not sure when the last time the defending champions of the highest two classifications have met the following season. Perhaps never. I’ll have to research that. Lowndes returns Greg Reid (Florida commit), while Northside is led by recent Georgia commit Abry Jones.
Kick off the debate: If Todd’s missed something good, let him know. Or if you’ve got a question about a team’s schedule, he’ll try to find it.
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Take 10: Georgia High School Sports Greatest Dynasties
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We always hear so much talk about Cinderella this time of the year. The NCAA tournament always seems to bring her out, and every glass slipper/pumpkin coach cliché is wheeled out for two weeks.
But at Take Ten, we just sit back and scoff at it all because we think Cinderella’s kind of ugly anyway. Give us Goliath. Yeah, as the four No. 1 seeds made up the Final Four, we were in a Goliath-type mood. That inspired us to think about the greatest dynasties in all sports in state history — the ultimate Goliaths, if you will. Here’s what we came up with:
10. Woodward Academy volleyball, 2001-05 The Eagles won five consecutive state titles, producing such stars as MacKenzie Crain and Taylor Noland.
9. Columbus baseball, 1991-96 The second-greatest dynasty in Georgia baseball history, the Eagles are still one of only two teams to win five titles in a six-year stretch.
8. Norcross boys basketball, 2006-08 This one’s not on here for its length but for how difficult it is to do. If you’ve watched basketball in this state, you know how tough it is to dominate any classification — much less the highest one — for three years in a row.
7. Parkview football, 2000-02 The Panthers are the only team since the old days of Valdosta dominance to win three consecutive titles in the state’s highest classification. One could make a case that Lowndes’ current run of three out of four is at least as impressive.
6. Taylor County girls basketball 1968-72 While they were winning five consecutive state titles and a state-record 134 consecutive games (tied for third-best all-time nationally), they also found time to play a key role in integrating sports in the state.
5. Jefferson wrestling, 2001-present Since the state went to five classifications, Jefferson has owned Class A. During that time, the Dragons have won every traditional and dual state wrestling title, 15 in all.
4. Richmond Academy baseball, 1951-57 This seven-year dynasty still stands as the longest in state history and the second-longest anywhere in the country. Coach Al Williams is a Georgia Hall of Fame coach, as well as the school’s former principal and a World War II prisoner of war.
3. Marist girls tennis, 1994-2006 This amazing run was ended last year when Starr’s Mill finally pried the state title out of the Eagles’ hands after 12 consecutive team titles that followed a singles title in 1994.
2. Westminster cross country, 1984-present The boys have won state every year since 1996, except for 2006. Not to be outdone, the girls took home the state championship from 1984-1990, 1992-2004 and again last year. This is certainly the longest dominant stretch in any sport.
1. Valdosta football, 1951-71 This is the stretch when Valdosta became Valdosta. The Wildcats won 13 titles in 21 years, including 10 undefeated seasons and a 13-1 record in the state championship game.
Go on. Take Ten. What do you think is the greatest dynasty of all time? Should any of these be kicked off the list? Is Northside-Warner Robins going to join the club in football this year? Give us your Goliaths.
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