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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?