Prep Zone

By Brian

May 19, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Ummm…what???..You forgot about the only top school in Atlanta..(not metro Atlanta) and that is Douglass High School..countless Div. 1 signees and prolly more athletes in the league or gettin ready to go to the league right now than any other program in the state. I know the ajc doesnt like Douglass and has been waitin on our fall from dominance in the city for quite some while but the fact still remains we produce athletes…ex. James Davis(clemson), Jamaal Lewis(Cleveland), Ahmad Carroll(former Arkansas standout, ex-Green Bay Packer, AFL star and many more up incoming stars.

By Brian

May 19, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

Not to mention countless playoff appearance since the opening of the school..which is still takin place right now..when in the time of modern history does Mays make the list in football over Douglass..cmon man I think its time for you to hand over the torch to someone else who know’s whats goin on in GHSF..I would also have to argue that right now Northside is the most powerful program in the state. P.S. Just come up to Doug during spring football year and year out and take a seat along countless Div. 1 recruiters and then post something like this..we are on any if not every college radar.

By Frederick (Bailey) Douglass

May 19, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I ditto Brian’s commets. Even though Dough High is going through a coaching change, DON’T TRIP!! The Black and Gold have roared on many occasions…

What are YOUR qualifications to be an expert on such matters?

By Grayson Mom

May 19, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Are you serious? You FORGOT about Grayson!!

By Monroe (Albany) Class of 84

May 19, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

I see that you dislike the Atlanta Public schools. What about Dougherty High (Albany), Cairo High, these two are periennial playoff contenders. Parkview had a five year stint, what have you done for me lately? Valdosta hasn’t been relevant since the mid-90’s. Come on Todd open up your view point.

By The Bone Yard

May 19, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

* EAST PAULDING RAIDERS * Undefeated last year regular season, beat by a great TCC Team #14 this year on your top 50. We beat #44 Mays last year in the playoffs. Loosing just a few seniors. Is it because we are moving to 5A??????? We open @ home against #34 Rome and #37 Harrison is in our Region. 2 years we have proven we are REAL! GO RAIDERS

By btw fan

May 19, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

How can you not mention Washington Hs over Mays, of course we been at .500 for the last two years , but what about the last ten years, playoff bound and region champs. How quickly we forget, but don’t count us out we’ll be back this year.

By ColoradoDawg

May 19, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

I second that motion, “Monroe”, especially your mention of the Syrupmakers. For years, the Makers have been a competitive, AAA playoff team whose performance would warrant their inclusion on this one man’s “top 50” list. Any visiting team who says it’s easy to go down to the Syrup Bowl and play Cairo on their home turf hasn’t played there.

By Frederick (Bailey) Douglass

May 19, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Brian, its obvious that this guy is clueless: leaving Douglass High School and Southwest Dekalb off of a list based on name recognition, marquee value and statewide respect is PLAIN STUPID.

AJC: Send us someone that either (1) is from GA or smart enough to (2) get to know the landscape.

**but you had the misguided nerve to post M.L. King, Mays and Stepenson??? Are you on drugs?

By yo

May 19, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Being from Valdosta I still understand the name Valdosta Wildcat football even if it has been history as of late.  However, much to my surprise when I was in Birmingham 2 weeks ago and mentioned to the individual (who had played college football at University of North Alabama) I was from Valdosta the first name out of his mouth was Lowndes High School and not Valdosta.  It appears Todd you are correct…the times have officially changed.

By GA all day

May 19, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Now I understand everyone being upset that Douglass and SWD were left off the list. In fact, I would have them both in the top 25. But lets be real. Neither of them have beaten Stephenson in years (at least 5), so let’s not get beyond ourselves…

By Will

May 19, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Name recognition, marquee value and state wiide respect. Let’s see, what about Douglass, Southwest Dekalb, Newnan,Starrs Mill and Cairo. Its obvious that you have your favorites in the metro area. Each of the Schools listed above could and should replace Schools on your list. Omitting the Douglass Astros as the only 5A program in the city just doesn’t make sense.

By Will

May 19, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

GA all day, Call anyone at Stephenson and ask the what happened on the last game of the season the last 2 years, Douglass kicked their but, that’s a fact. Cross check facts before opening your mouth.

By fan

May 19, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

how can you put valdosta that high when they are not the team they use to be. is this what happened in the past or who is hot now. then you put colquitt in there. what games have you been to.

By ebdawg

May 19, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe that the Cartersville Purple Hurricanes would not be on any list of the top 50 programs in the state. Since 2001, 5 seasons with 9 or more wins… including two 10 and one 12 win seasons… Five trips to the playoffs during that time span.. Classic battles with Carrolton and Lagrange. A couple of off years may have hurt the Canes, but top 50? I think so….

By UGA Fan

May 19, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

TCC is one of the elite programs in the state of ga. Coach Pilcher turned them into well known team over the years that he was there before going to Bainbridge. I am sure Bainbridge will be a elite program also in the years to come with coach Pilcher as their head coach.

By Derrick Mahone

May 19, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Just wanted to address some teams that I cover on a regular basis.

Douglass Remember, this is about statewide, not the city. Has been one of the top city team, but success in the city has come in cycles. Crim was good until the last few years before its closing, Washington had a good run, Grady for a few years was successful, The downfall all city team has been the playoffs. Douglass hasn’t advance past the second round since 1975, that is including the year that had something like 11 Div. I-A signees. Lost at Lakewood to a rebuilding Valdosta team that loaded with sophomores. Douglass hasn’t won a road playoff game since the controversial win over Lakeside-DeKalb in 1975 at DeKalb Memorial (Hallford) Stadium. The last Div. I signee was 2005 (Akeem Dent).

The Astros record against the Top 10

1. Lowndes: 0-2 average margin of victory 21 points
2. Northside-Warner Robins: never played
3. Buford: Never played
4. Lincoln Co.: never played
5. Charlton Co.: never played
6. Valdosta: 0-1 Lost second round of playoffs
7. Camden Co.: never played
8. Parkview: 0-3 average margin of victory 36 points
9. Brookwood: 0-2 average margin of victory 20.5 points
10. Stephenson: 5-5, Douglass has won three of last four meetings

Southwest DeKalb You could probably make a case from them, but “what have you done for me lately?**Their 0-4 record against Marist since 2002 didn’t help make a case. They have also been outscored 115-19 by Marist in those loses.

Just some thoughts:

Grayson Last season was the Rams breakout season. They will need a couple more seasons like that to be considered among the top in the state. Additionally, Grayson hasn’t beaten a team outside the metro area in the playoffs.

East Paulding Probably need to do it a couple more seasons in a better region. It’s no secret that Region 5-AAAA wasn’t among the top in the state. EP’s two biggest games - Marist and Thomas County Central - weren’t even close. Need some more quality wins.

By UGA Fan

May 19, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

TCC is one of the elite programs in the state of ga. Coach Pilcher turned them into a well known team over the years that he was there before going to Bainbridge. I am sure Bainbridge will be a elite program also in the years to come with coach Pilcher as their head coach.

By Buddy El

May 19, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Lincoln County is, historically, one of the top highschool football programs in Georgia but when you start ranking this Class A team ahead of programs like Valdosta, Camden County, Lagrange, etc. you lose all credibility for the entire list.

By TCC91

May 19, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

I’m a Thomas Co grad and i really don’t see how Cairo didn’t make the list of FIFTY?!?!? You mean their name recognition, marquee value and STATEWIDE respect is not above Harrison? C’mon…

By Bryan

May 19, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

I think we should all face it, Lowndes is going nowhere in the near future. The only thing that can break their reign is another high school in the county. Pumping those kids out like hotcakes.

By Carlos

May 19, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Douglass does not meet the criteria of name recognition, marquee value and statewide respect, that is why they are not on the list. Unless, of course, name recognition means “oh yippee! We play Douglass in the 2nd round- a 3rd round game for us is guaranteed!”

No doubt they put some players into college and even the league. Which makes their lack of success on the state level even stranger.

I don’t think Mays makes anyone shiver in their cleats, either. At least Stephenson has actually played in the quarterfinals and even made it to the semis recently.

By Maker

May 19, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

What About Cairo???????????????????????????????????

By S. Thomas Coleman

May 19, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Derrick,

I was just about to come to the defense of our esteemed colleague, Todd, when I read your post. I couldn’t agree more with you on all the Douglass talk.

In spite of all the coaching changes, Mays has been the most consistent city program, year in and year out. In fact, I would argue that Washington would belong on the list before Douglass.

And except for having to knock heads with Stephenson (and I would agree that they probably belong on the list) Douglass has played in a pretty soft region the past few years. The most telling stat is their woeful playoff performances since 1975. No way you can claim top 50 status with a post season record like that.

On another note, speaking to your comment about city teams coming and going, look for the New Schools of Carver to be good for a long time going forward.

S. Thomas Coleman

By DecaturDog

May 19, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

Can you please explain how you can have Carrollton ranked 32nd when they have a history of winning dating back to the late 1950’s?

It has one of the top winning percentages in the entire nation.

Many of these other teams haven’t been around 20 years…as Ricky Ricardo sez: You got some ‘splainin’ to do!”

By DecaturDog

May 19, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Just not a very informed or well-researched list here.

Serious HS football fans will see this is just to stir up hits to the website at a SLOW time of year…

It doesn’t warrant our energy…

By Farsider

May 19, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Over all it is a good list. While their performance has slipped in recent years, I think McEachern rates as a top 50 program.

By JR

May 19, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

I would think that Cook would be on the list somewhere. At least equal with Fitzgerald. Cook has had 5 10+ win seasons and 8 playoff appearances in the past 8 seasons with 5 of those 8 teams (63%) making at least the quarterfinals and 3 of the 8 making it to the semifinals (38%) Not even your #22 Griffin can boast those percentages. Tift at #25 is a joke. Tift has had 3 winning seasons and 4 playoff appearances (3 of which were 1st round losses) since 2000. Fitzgerald is deservingly on the list but they have made the playoffs the same 8 years as Cook but have only advanced to the quarterfinals 2 times. In the past 6 seasons they have 3 first and 3 second round losses. While Fitzgerald does well in the regular season, they have average at best playoff runs. Can I get a little love for the Cook High Hornets?

By JR

May 19, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

I would think that Cook would be on the list somewhere. At least equal with Fitzgerald. Cook has had 5 10+ win seasons and 8 playoff appearances in the past 8 seasons with 5 of those 8 teams (63%) making at least the quarterfinals and 3 of the 8 making it to the semifinals (38%) Not even your #22 Griffin can boast those percentages. Tift at #25 is a joke. Tift has had 3 winning seasons and 4 playoff appearances (3 of which were 1st round losses) since 2000. Fitzgerald is deservingly on the list but they have made the playoffs the same 8 years as Cook but have only advanced to the quarterfinals 2 times. In the past 6 seasons they have 3 first and 3 second round losses. While Fitzgerald does well in the regular season, they have average at best playoff runs. Can I get a little love for the Cook High Hornets?

By B Ro

May 19, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

ONLY two Cobb County schools??…Where is McEachern?..Where is Marietta?…come on…south GA football is great but lets give Cobb County the respect it deserves as Harrison / Walton are still toddlers when compared to the history of these two traditional powerhouses

By Getaname

May 19, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

S. Thomas Coleman? Give me a break. Think you work at the New York Times with a byline like that?

By me

May 19, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

No schools from Cherokee county? This poll is a joke.

By Okay so you do smoke crack

May 19, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

N Gwinnett 31st? Well they should at least be 29 th because two teams ahead of North have got issues. Peachtree Ridge has yet to ever beat North in a game of football. BWood is 0-3 against Sphire. I mean it is what it is.

By josh

May 19, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Wow, you need to do your homework again Todd. You put Fitzgerald and Tift on the list before Cook, are you kidding me? Cook has been to the dome 3 times this decade. Fitzgerald is nothing better than a 9 wins and out team, win 9 in the regular season and choke in the first round. Tift, well they’re the most overrated football school in Georgia. They’ve done nothing but lose this decade, with an exception of two years ago. Cook should be on this list, Tift..no..Fitzgerald…NOO.

By Todd Holcomb

May 19, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

OK, let’s delete Mays, Tift and Colquitt and sub Cairo, Cartersville and … McEachern? No, how about SW DeKalb, not McEachern. I’ve got Cook on the bubble. What about Marietta?

Douglass High School..countless Div. 1 signees and prolly more athletes in the league or gettin ready to go to the league right now than any other program in the state.

That’s a good point, Brian, but that doesn’t register with people around the state that much, in my opinion. Rodney Garner knows about Douglass, but I’m talking about your average high school football fans. For example, someone posted on this blog last week that Jamal Lewis of Brookwood was a great high school RB. Brookwood? Statewide, most people can’t tell you that Lewis and Batman Carroll went to Douglass. But they know Caleb King played at Parkview or that Rennie Curran played at Brookwood or Garrison Hearst at Lincoln County or Champ Bailey at Charlton County. Those were high-profile players playing for state titles.

And I’m talking statewide, not in the city. I respect Douglass because I’m close to Atlanta, but the Astros just don’t resonate statewide.

I see that you dislike the Atlanta Public schools.

Carlos’ comments reflect the statewide view: *yippee! We play Douglass in the 2nd round- a 3rd round game.

Name recognition, marquee value and state wiide respect. Let’s see, what about Douglass, Southwest Dekalb, Newnan,Starrs Mill and Cairo.

SWD and Cairo, yes. The rest, no. Those are good teams year-in, year-out, but not teams people expect ever to win state titles.

How can you not mention Washington Hs over Mays?

Good point. Take Mays out. Actually Douglass probably should be the #1 choice in APS. Brian convinced me of that.

EAST PAULDING RAIDERS Undefeated last year regular season, beat by a great TCC Team #14 this year on your top 50.

If EP can do something big in AAAAA, respect will come. Finally. Until then, EP doesn’t deserve to be in this Top 50. In fact, all those EP fans who say, “We get no respect,’’ are proving my point. This is a list of ‘’most respected’’ programs.

I second that motion, “Monroe”, especially your mention of the Syrupmakers. For years, the Makers have been a competitive, AAA playoff team whose performance would warrant their inclusion on this one man’s “top 50” list. Any visiting team who says it’s easy to go down to the Syrup Bowl and play Cairo on their home turf hasn’t played there.

Cairo, yes. I think that’s my biggest omission. Monroe? Not close. I don’t think there’s much statewide respect there, to be honest. Not saying Monroe hasn’t been very tough the last couple of seasons. Monroe is underrated perhaps, but not worthy of this Top 50.

Can you please explain how you can have Carrollton ranked 32nd when they have a history of winning dating back to the late 1950’s?

The headline says NOW. Not the 1950s. Carrollton’s all-time history is probably Top 10, but Carrollton is a Class AA school that ranks about No. 40 this decade in victories statewide. And I ranked Carrollton higher than No. 40, so I think that’s pretty fair.

While their performance has slipped in recent years, I think McEachern rates as a top 50 program.

Yeah, maybe so. McEachern is like SW DeKalb. Both probably deserve to be there, although McEachern has been bordering on mediocre this decade. What’s impressive is the 240 applicants to replace Dorsey, though. That alone should put a program in the Top 50. On my amended list, I’ll have to look at McEachern & SWD pretty closely.

Lincoln County is, historically, one of the top highschool football programs in Georgia but when you start ranking this Class A team ahead of programs like Valdosta, Camden County, Lagrange, etc. you lose all credibility for the entire list.

Please know that I’m not saying Lincoln County would beat those teams. Lincoln is hard to rank because it’s really apples and oranges when you’re talking AAAAA vs. A schools. Lincoln is one-of-a-kind. But Lincoln County, aside from Valdosta, is Georgia’s winningest program (at least the last 50 or so years), and Lincoln is still very current, with 3 state titles in the last 4 years and one of the top 10 coaches nationally of all-time.

Remember the criteria: Respect statewide (Lincoln is probably the most universally respected team in Georgia, in that Campbell and the Devils have no enemies), marquee value (depends on how you define that) and name recognition (people know of Campbell and Lincoln nationwide).

I would think that Cook would be on the list somewhere. At least equal with Fitzgerald. Cook has had 5 10+ win seasons and 8 playoff appearances in the past 8 seasons with 5 of those 8 teams (63%) making at least the quarterfinals and 3 of the 8 making it to the semifinals (38%) Not even your #22 Griffin can boast those percentages. Tift at #25 is a joke. Tift has had 3 winning seasons and 4 playoff appearances (3 of which were 1st round losses) since 2000. Fitzgerald is deservingly on the list but they have made the playoffs the same 8 years as Cook but have only advanced to the quarterfinals 2 times. In the past 6 seasons they have 3 first and 3 second round losses. While Fitzgerald does well in the regular season, they have average at best playoff runs. Can I get a little love for the Cook High Hornets?

Good comments. … Cook ranks about 35th in wins this decade. (My list goes through 2006, and I haven’t updated it.) But in the lower classes, statewide respect doesn’t come until you win a title, or at least play for one. I know Cook has been to the Dome a lot. I could live with Cook in anyone’s Top 50, though. …

Fitzgerald ranks about 15th in wins this decade, so that’s why I had Fitz ahead of Cook. Cook has won 5 playoff games the past 4 years, Fitz has won 4. I see your point, but I looked at the decade totals.

Tift County is probably a reach. Conceded. I just think those 1-AAAAA programs are big-time by affiliation. Lots of history and passion at those schools. But yes, Tift is hard to justify give its mediocre record lately. Let’s sub Cairo for Tift and call it even.

can’t believe that the Cartersville Purple Hurricanes would not be on any list of the top 50 programs in the state. Since 2001, 5 seasons with 9 or more wins

Cartersville was 34th in wins this decade until 2007. The ‘Canes probably dropped to 40th or below after the 4-5-1. They are about 40th or below in playoff wins the past 4 years. I can live w/ Cartersville in there. Lots of tradition, especially at RB (Ronnie Brown, Darby, Henderson, Lavette), and two state titles in the ‘90s. The more I think about it, Cartersville should’ve made the low end of the list.

Let’s drop Mays and Tift and sub Cairo and Cartersville.

how can you put valdosta that high when they are not the team they use to be. is this what happened in the past or who is hot now. then you put colquitt in there. what games have you been to.

I know Colquitt has been down, but maybe I was overacting to the Rush Propst factor. … Actually, I think Chris Whitfield told me to do it. Delete Colquitt.

As for Valdosta, this remains the most recognizable name in Georgia high school football nationwide. I’m not ranking the teams on fear factor at this moment in time, but Valdosta us a marquee name team that remains a quality team on the field.

Let’s put it this way: If your school scheduled Valdosta, would that still get your players fired up? Or would they be more fired up to play Roswell, a team that’s been better the past 2-3 years?

By No love for AAA?

May 19, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

LaGrange, Thomas County Central, & Carrollton have about 25 state championships between the three of them, and not a single one can crack the top 10? LaGrange alone has won the state 3 times since 2001 and put 15-20 guys on SEC rosters over that period.

By Barbara

May 19, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

THIS POLL IS SO WRONG. YOU MISSED SO MANY OTHER SCHOOLS.

By Todd Holcomb

May 19, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

ONLY two Cobb County schools??…Where is McEachern?..Where is Marietta?

Where are the state titles?

No schools from Cherokee county? This poll is a joke.

Cherokee County football is a joke. Just kidding. But you know people who read that are thinking it.

Let’s face it: Most high school football fans couldn’t name three schools in Cherokee County. I hate to be harsh, but this is about statewide respect, and Cherokee isn’t there yet.

N Gwinnett 31st? Well they should at least be 29 th because two teams ahead of North have got issues. Peachtree Ridge has yet to ever beat North in a game of football. BWood is 0-3 against Sphire. I mean it is what it is.

These rankings are not about what is on the field. It’s about what is in people’s hearts.

Let’s ask Lowndes fans: What gave you more satisfaction, blowing out Brookwood, or blowing out North Gwinnett? That’s what these rankings are about.

By big blue caddy

May 19, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

I bet you’re considering including Marietta for your “top five” teams to be incensed for lack of inclusion.

While a lot of this is completely subjective (most respected, marquee value, etc), I think MHS warrants being in the Top Fifty.

If you include Walton and Harrison in the top 50, then MHS certainly should be included…especially if you considered the longevity and long term success of the program.

Marietta is one of the winningest programs in the state (see www.ghsfha.org)

Marietta is the ONLY Cobb County team to hold a State Championship title.

Marietta is one of the oldest programs in the state dating back to the early 1900’s

Northcutt Stadium is frequently mentioned as one of the top venues in the state.

And despite the school size, MHS has historically opted to ‘play up’ in the largest school classification (AAAAA).

Perhaps MHS has not been the powerhouse of late, but if you take the long view, Marietta should be included.

By Todd Holcomb

May 19, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

LaGrange, Thomas County Central, & Carrollton have about 25 state championships between the three of them, and not a single one can crack the top 10? LaGrange alone has won the state 3 times since 2001 and put 15-20 guys on SEC rosters over that period.

I’m OK w/ Carrollton and TCC where they are because that was another decade you’re talking about. This is NOW.

LaGrange … Yeah, that’s pretty strong. The Grangers are about 90-9 this decade. I think that’s No. 2 to Buford.

There’s no right or wrong here, but my thinking is that the top Class AAAAA schools are the ones that rank highest on those criteria — name recognition, statewide respect, etc… UNLESS those smaller programs have state titles that are very fresh on everyone’s minds.

To me, those top handful of big schools are the most loves & hated, the most talked about, the most controversial, the most anticipated, all that stuff, than those great smaller programs unless that program just did something big.

But if somebody puts LaGrange at No. 5, I wouldn’t quibble much.

THIS POLL IS SO WRONG. YOU MISSED SO MANY OTHER SCHOOLS.

Such as? …

By will

May 19, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

27th thats a joke 7 straight playoff appearances and 2 semi finals in in five years ha ha ha ha ha

By sprtdog

May 19, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

You need Cairo in there between 20 and 30 i believe

By sprtdog

May 19, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

You need Cairo in there between 20 and 30 i believe

By dewayne

May 19, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

It’s just a poll, and one man’s opinion. You can rank your own poll,because he is just saying who he thinks is the top 50 in the state. Everyone thinks it’s set in stone since he wrote the article so remember this is HIS opinion!!!

By Don Hill

May 19, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Commerce? I’m surprised that we are not in the list when programs with mainly recent success (ECI) are as high as the top 20.

By TXDawg

May 19, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

I’m surprised that Marist isn’t higher due to the longevity of their dominance and overall name recognition.

By PIUS

May 19, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

FORGOT ST. PIUS, BEAT DALTON IN THE PLAYOFFS HANDILY LAST TIME I CHECKED AND MAYS! COME ON TODD PICK IT UP!

By TimmyTimTim

May 19, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Todd, I wasn’t sure if you meant Where are the state titles? in your response to the question of, “McEachern/Marietta?” to mean that neither has one, because Marietta High School definitely has a state title. Not much to brag about, espiecially because it has been over 40 years ago, but still a state title nonetheless.

By Millicent C

May 19, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Go Lowndes Vikings ‘83

By Dacula

May 19, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

How can you have all of these gwinnett county schools on this list and not have DACULA!!!??? Apparently Todd doesn’t know what Norcross record is against Dacula. Well let me tell you. It’s 1-5. I hate to talk about one Maloof brother at the expense of another but facts are facts. Also, Dacula has traditionally trounced North Gwinnett. Who were the 2 teams from gwinnett county with the most wins in the 1990’s? 1. Brookwood 2.Dacula. Bet you’re suprised it’s not Buford or Parkview. Also, Dacula has been to the quarterfinals 10 times and the Final Four 3 times in the last 20 years. No other gwinnett school outside of Brookwood, Parkview, and Buford can even touch those numbers. Norcross and North Gwinnett? Give me a break.

By Brad in KY

May 19, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

Marietta High School

I was going to argue that Marietta should be included on the list, but I see that ‘big blue caddy’ beat me to it above (and did a fine job of it, too).

At any rate, it’s interesting to note the connection between Marietta’s success in the 90’s and the #3 team on the list: Buford High School.

The connection is Dexter Wood who built Marietta into a state power before leaving for Buford. Although there were some good years after he left, things haven’t really been the same since. I’ll also note that Buford’s current coach, Jess Simpson, is a Marietta alum.

Gosh, I wish they’d come home to Marietta, but I don’t think that’s gonna happen…

By Dacula

May 19, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

O.K., I did a little research. Dacula is 9-3 against North Gwinnett and has won the last 3 times they have played. I understand North Gwinnett had a great season last year and deserve all the credit in the world for getting to the finals. However, if you’re talking right now (past 2-3 years) then how is Parkview on the list? They haven’t won a playoff game since Caleb King’s last year there. I’m not trying to put down any program’s accomplishments (except maybe Buford because everyone in gwinnett county know how much they recruit kids from other schools to get to where they are), I’m just comparing stats.

By twoiron

May 19, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

Hasn’t Charlton beaten Buford 2 of the last 3 years.

By paladin king

May 19, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Stephenson ranked at number 10 is kind of high…especially considering the year they’re coming off. I think M.L. King and Stephenson are alot closer than 16 places. 2 very similar programs, very talented athletes, relatively new schools on the rise…but to put them in the top 10 is kind of a stretch.

By homet

May 19, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Todd…

You said it yourself, this poll is about NOW!!!…Not years ago and East Paulding’s record for the last 2 years speaks for itself!!!

UNDEFEATED Regular season last year…they beat your highly touted Mays, they beat those Cherokee County teams, and yes they lost to Marist IN THE DOME!!!, and to TCC at TCC, after a 4 hour bus ride, that would have been a MUCH DIFFERENT GAME had it been played in the “BONEYARD”!!!! here in Paulding County!

They might not be top ten yet…but they sure should be in your top 50!!!!

By Fan of the game

May 19, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

:Todd Holcomb: I notice that Bainbridge is not on your list. What are your thoughts on Bainbridge becoming a an elite program in the years to come now that coach Pilcher is their head coach?

By Brian

May 19, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

What?? No Pace Academy!?

By CHS "Real Trojans"

May 19, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

First of all, Todd, Carrollton is a AAA school not AA. And our winning didn’t stop in the 50’s. The only time we were down recently was in 2000 and 2001 after Coach Scott died and we had a joke of a coach in Ross New. If I’m not mistaken we lost last year in the playoffs to the eventual state champs and it’s no secret that they stole that game on a no call by an official on an obvious fumble.

By Derrick Mahone

May 19, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

TXDAWG Look at the teams ahead of Marist, and the War Eagles would be the top AAAA team according to the list, that’s if you put Northside-WR in AAAAA, where they will compete for the next two years. Only Buford (AA), Lincoln County (A) and Charlton County (AA) are above Marist, and they all have more recent state championships. If it wasn’t for LaGrange’s last two seasons, you could probably make a case for them being place over Marist in football.

Dewayne Good point. Would like to see some people’s own top 50 instead of just poking fun at this one. Yes, some of this is Todd’s opinion, but he consulted other people. A lot of this is based on conversions you have with people throughout the year and get a sense of what other people think of teams throughout the state.

Don Hill Todd, had Commerce in his first list but I might have talked him out of it.

Pius Paul Standard has done an excellent job in reviving the St. Pius program into a playoff contender in one of the toughest 4A regions in the state. Take the 2006 season out of the mix, and they are just average. I think like Valdosta, Dalton is one of those programs that gets a pass because of the consistency of several years of producing a winning program. I tried to talk Todd out of keeping Dalton in because of the competition in Region 7-AAAA.

Mays was included because of their consistency despite adversity. They have had something like seven coaches in eight or nine years. During that time St. Pius has had one coach with a feeder program and has produced a 54-27 record and five playoff appearance. Mays has been 55-22 with five playoff appearances. Mays is 3-2 against St. Pius during that stretch.

By BTW FAN FOR LIFE

May 19, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Well actually Todd, I disagree with you about putting Douglass over Washington, no matter how much Brian convinced you, I still see you have not done your research. We have had numerous Super 11 athletes over the years,and to mention athletes in Division 1 schools and well as NFL athletes.

By GC

May 19, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

In my opinion, the biggest omission is East Coweta. Legendary coach and a team you expect to be there every year. Honorable mention to Chamblee.

Secondly, I’m in defense of Stephenson’s ranking. Holcomb said the rankings were about notoriety, and who doesn’t know about Stephenson? This may hurt my argument but SHS is the highest ranked school to not win or play for a state title this decade.

Generally, LaGrange, Peach County, Shaw, Statesboro and Ware County are a little low on this list, while Warner Robins and Norcross are waaaay too high.

By slalom1

May 19, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

WOW TODD! Hope you are wearing your helmet! LOL!! Talk about ruffling feathers! Truth is, I believe you got the list about right. The Gwinnettifers and the Claytonators are confusing talent with respect and WINNING. I believe you were extremely kind to Stephenson, Tucker, M.L. King, Walton, Harrison, and Westside-Macon. NO state titles from any of the above. For any team to be included on this list, there should be at least ONE state title.

By WALTON!

May 19, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

how is M.L king above walton this is the only year they have ever been really good

By mike

May 19, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

i went to brookwood in 03, and graduated from ga southern in 07, and can tell you that we at brookwood knew that statesboro was on the map football-wise long before over a dozen of several other non-metro teams ranked higher than they are. statesboro has been in several state championship games since 2000 and won a couple too… think that deserves more respect than norcross and walton along with several other overrated big programs in the metro area. as far as name recognition and marquee value, i have a hard time seeing brookwood and parkview at the bottom of the top 10 compared with some of the smaller schools listed. everyone knows gwinnett county football, and theres more AAAAA teams in the county than there are in any region, so talk about your competition there. give due respect to the powerhouses in lower classifications, but MORE people overall know about metro football because there are simply MORE people in the metro area. im not sure these factors were weighted as well as they should have been.

By freddie

May 19, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

how the hell is buford even in the top 50 they dont play many teams that are 500or better. what a joke

By Trojans

May 19, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Don’t count Coffee Co. High out! New Coach, most of players back, will be much better this year. Play-offs last 4 years. Bet on it!

By AL

May 19, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t see what some posters are in a huff about. It doesn’t really matter who is ranked at the beginning, it only is important once the season is well underway and you can see who is actually winning, who has the breakout players, etc. Up until then it’s all guesswork.

By alday

May 19, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

GO WARE COUNTY! ALWAYS STRONG AGAINST LOWNDES, VALDOSTA, CHARLTON, STATESBORO, THOMAS CO. CENTRAL AND TIFT CO. CLINCH IS TOO SMALL TO PLAY.

By truth

May 19, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

swd has a winning record against stephenson and tucker. They beat Stepehenson 2 out of the last three times they played for whatever idiot said that stephenson beat them. As well as beating tucker two out of the last three years, including an embarrassing playoff loss of tucker in 05. But dont worry panther fans know what kind of team they have that will shock the world next year.

By Billy

May 19, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

Wow, I can’t believe that my alma mater, Colquitt County made the list! Hopefully, Rush can get them back going in the right direction.

By YRB!

May 19, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

Please explain how you ranked Marist (12) ahead of Tucker (16)?

By golden herd

May 19, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

you got that right Billy. its a sad day when we barely crack this list at #42. remember the glory days of the 90s when beating valdosta was usual occurrence?

if you havent been able to keep up with the Packers this spring, you will be surprised come fall. The Legend that is Rush Propst isnt gonna turn the program around overnight but we will be much improved this season. i went to the scrimmage over the weekend and the defense has some beasts. we still need work in that spread offense but i can see us winning 6 games. just a winning season is a step in the right direction.

By drock08

May 19, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Todd I know you are bored and have nothing to do but are you kidding me. First I live south of Atlanta and I know you are a homer of Gwinnett and Cobb County so that explain Roswell at 19 and Walton at 27. Harrison at #37 are a great regular season team for years because of the weak region and lose in the playoffs nobody around these parts respect them. If you going to put a one year wonder ECI who knowbody knows who they are at 17 you should have put Fayette County in the list they had a great year last year against some legitimate teams. I can’t believe Lagrange at 13 are you on prescription everybody knows what Lagrange and your #32 Carrollton(way to low)bring to the table every year. N.Gwinnett 31 Carrollton 32 Todd you are smarter than that. Who know anything about Laney HS. Lovett what have they won. North Hall at 46 Todd are you smarter than a 5th grader. Stephenson at 10 and Lagrange at 13 you got to be on something a overhyped team every year at 10 and a school that has won mulitple championships including a national championship at 13. Todd you are a joke. Todd how about success at Newnan HS in the 60’s 70’s 80’s 90’s and the last two years. Ask anybody who would they rather beat Laney or Newnan or a overhyped Stephenson or a well coached East Coweta. I know who would be easier to beat. Does Creekside Sandy Creek Starrs Mills St.Pius means anything to you Mr. Smart guy or you on house arrest again and cannot leave Gwinnett County. And finally how could Lovett make the list and Dougherty HS could not I really hope you get better wisdom by your top ten rankings in August. This was worse than your players of the decade list last week. Cmon Todd you are way better than this.

By Billy

May 19, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the update, golden herd! And, yes, I do remember when beating Valdosta was a regular occurrence!

By AtlGaTech

May 19, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

Westminster should have been on that list especially since Lovett and GAC were.

By Trojan Fan

May 19, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

I AM NOT TAKING AWAY ANYTHING FROM CHARLTON COUNTY AND OTHERS, BUT THE TOP FIVE PROGRAMS IN GEORGIA …LOUNDES, NORTHSIDE,WR, BUFORD, LINCOLON COUNTY AND CARROLLTON..FIVE STATE TITLES, THIRTY TWO REGION TITLES…PLUS NEW 20 MILLION STADIUM, 2.6 MILLION FIELDHOUSE, MILLION DOLLAR BAND ROOM, PRO SURF PLAYING SURFACE,AND REPLAY SCOREBOARD…THIRTY TWO IS INSANE

By TO TODD HOLCOMB

May 19, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

First off thanks for this list. Its made me think a lot about GA Football. I do not agree with everything on this list, as no one will, because we are all entitled to our own opinion. But I do want to make one suggestion. I see that Valdosta has been placed above Camden in the 6th slot. I would like you to consider my arguement on why Camden should be 6th and Valdosta 7th. 1. Camden has beaten Valdosta the last 3 games they have played. 2. Camden has gotten farther in the playoffs (the majority of the years since 2002) 3. Camden has gotten updated facilities (Yes Valdosta updated the stadium too, so they are equal in this) So in my opinion Camden is the more now team, what are your thoughts and please feel free to argue your point, I would like to know your thinking behind this.

By dhs fan

May 19, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Dunwoody had an 8-2 record last year in a tough region and didnt make the playoffs. Dunwoody has only lost three starters from that team and has been underated year after year

By YOU KNOW

May 19, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

IF YOU’RE NOT* MAYS RAIDER* YOU MUST BE A HATER.

By root4au

May 19, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

Rome ahead of Cartersville. C’ville has beaten them the last two years with avg teams..

By yo

May 19, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

Remember…”Legend” (as in past) but as you questioned in a previous blog not a “hero” (as in present). Kind of like living in the 90’s. :-)

By Rev McCrary

May 19, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

How about CREEKSIDE and Mr. E. Berry

By comet fan

May 19, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

GO GWINNETT COUNTY TEAMS!!!!!!!!!! i believe that there were 6 or 7 teams listed, without scrolling back up. I love seeing how many feathers get ruffled when Gwinnett County teams are mentioned. It is like listening to old people talk about walking up hill both ways to school in the snow, never wanting to give credit where credit is due. There are alot of teams that can be included on the list for overall history, but the title states “RIGHT NOW”, not “BACK WHEN” or “OVERALL”.

By golden herd

May 19, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

Rush Propst is widely recognized as one of the best coaches in the nation. he has won at every stop in his coaching career. Colquitt County has put a huge amount of energy and funding to get the football program turned around. i dont know if this is a fair comparision but Propst has a very Saban-like aura about him haha.

By Judd

May 19, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Statesboro at 28 is a complete travesty. They are top 10 EASILY, and probably deserve to be in the top 5. They played in the state title game in 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, and 2005 winning in 2001 and 2005. This is a total lack of respect from a know nothing AJC writer. Once again proves that their are NO knowledgable sports writers on the staff.

94-14-1 since 2000 and you have ECI ranked higher than them? WOW

By Gil Bruce

May 19, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

This ranking must be based on the future…… because The Carrollton Trojan’s football program is second only to Valdosta in best ALL-TIME winning percentage in Georgia High School History. And 17th in the Nation. Next time you rank programs use “facts” because your opinion shows your inexperience.

By THEHILLISREAL

May 19, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

BRIAN NAME RECOGNITION,READ THE HIGH SCHOOL BLOG GAVSV.THE MENTION OF MAYS BLOW UP THE VENT,FROM PEOPLE ALL AROUND GA ESPECIALLY MIDDLE&SOUTH GEORGIA.DOUGLASS LOT SIGNER BEGGING MAYS PLAYER TAKE THE SAT FOR THEM AT SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN ACADEMY.MAYS HAVE D1 SIGNING AS WELL,WHO ACTUALLY HAVE THE GRADE TO ATTEND A UNIVERSITY.MAYS HIGH TIL THE DAY I DIE.P.S DOUGLASS WILL FALL OFF IN 2010,THEY ARE CLOSING THE PROJECTS ON BANKHEAD.OH YEAH!40%STARTER LIVE IN WALKING DISTANCE OF MAYS.LOOK AT ADDRESS OF ALL YOUR SIGNING PAST 8 YR.

By THEHILLISREAL

May 19, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

BRIAN NAME RECOGNITION,READ THE HIGH SCHOOL BLOG GAVSV.THE MENTION OF MAYS BLOW UP THE VENT,FROM PEOPLE ALL AROUND GA ESPECIALLY MIDDLE&SOUTH GEORGIA.DOUGLASS LOT SIGNER BEGGING MAYS PLAYER TAKE THE SAT FOR THEM AT SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN ACADEMY.MAYS HAVE D1 SIGNING AS WELL,WHO ACTUALLY HAVE THE GRADE TO ATTEND A UNIVERSITY.MAYS HIGH TIL THE DAY I DIE.P.S DOUGLASS WILL FALL OFF IN 2010,THEY ARE CLOSING THE PROJECTS ON BANKHEAD.OH YEAH!40%STARTER LIVE IN WALKING DISTANCE OF MAYS.LOOK AT ADDRESS OF ALL YOUR SIGNING PAST 8 YR. PAST THREE YEARS MAYS 27-8

By comet fan

May 19, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

Top football team in each of the 50 states and D.C. by Sports Illustrated for 2007 - Northside (Warner Robins. Makes you wonder how the AJC missed this article from Sports Illustrated. PROPS to the south - great job!!!! Not taking anything from my Gwinnett County POWERHOUSES, which received 2005 (Parkview) and 2007 (Collins Hill)- Best in state - The top high schools in each of the 50 states and D.C. by Sports Illustrated for overall sports performance.

By mistermak

May 19, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

Todd, You are having fun with this one, Huh? I cant believe nobody is upset tha