Prep Zone

By MountainMama

July 7, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this

Don’t laugh when I mention the school…but as far as a good QB in Single A….you might want to check out Chase Ellis up in Towns County. He transferred up last year from Byron (I think…not sure what school) when his dad took an Asst. coaching job alongside new Head Coach Kyle Langford. Chase comes from good stock; he has two older brothers who play/played college football at the QB position. He’s got a cannon for an arm…and is pretty mobile too. (He’s a 3 sport stand-out athlete; in addition to football he’s a great basketball player and basebal player.) He could have gone back “south” to finish his high school career at his old school (mom still lives down there…where ever exactly there is; my memory is not 100% on that part)….but instead wanted to stay here to help Towns County achieve their first WINNING season in history. He’s got some good TALL targets to throw to this year..including a 6’4” and growing freshman receiver in addition to several 6’ plus juniors/seniors. I really BELIEVE this will be a banner year for Towns County AND Chase Ellis.

By MountainMama

July 7, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

Don’t laugh when I mention the school…but as far as a good QB in Single A….you might want to check out Chase Ellis up in Towns County. He transferred up last year from Byron (I think…not sure what school) when his dad took an Asst. coaching job alongside new Head Coach Kyle Langford. Chase comes from good stock; he has two older brothers who play/played college football at the QB position. He’s got a cannon for an arm…and is pretty mobile too. (He’s a 3 sport stand-out athlete; in addition to football he’s a great basketball player and basebal player.) He could have gone back “south” to finish his high school career at his old school (mom still lives down there…where ever exactly there is; my memory is not 100% on that part)….but instead wanted to stay here to help Towns County achieve their first WINNING season in history. He’s got some good TALL targets to throw to this year..including a 6’4” and growing freshman receiver in addition to several 6’ plus juniors/seniors. I really BELIEVE this will be a banner year for Towns County AND Chase Ellis

By Todd Holcomb

July 7, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

OK, who’s going to be the first to ask me where’s Michael Bowman in AAA?

I thought I got in early enough this morning to re-think some of my choices at the last minute before publication, but my editors were up late last night and posted my original choices. Which is fine. I was going to have real trouble taking anybody out of the Class AAA Super 11. That’s the best set of players of any classification. And I really liked watching DeAngelo Pease last year, even if colleges aren’t beating down his door yet.

And thanks for the tip on Chase Ellis. I need help in Class A. Either it’s a down year in the lowest class (once you get outside ECI), or those guys really struggle to make names for themselves. Class A players are scarce in the recruting rankings, and they’re not discussed much on blogs and chat boards. Who are the Class A sleepers? We want to know.

By lee champion

July 7, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

keep an eye out for the “other” linebacker at Carver-Columbus, Leron Furr, Deron’s younger brother. If Jarvis Jones was at any other school you would be hearing all about Leron

By T-Bone

July 7, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Todd,

How about a pre-season ranking of the teams in each class?

By GRIM

July 7, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Donovan Tate will never see a football field again.. As injury prone as he is all advice has him looking at a top 5 pick in next years MLB draft.

By Inner City

July 7, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

There is a running back at South Atlanta you would not believe by the name of Michael Daughtry, don’t be surprised if he shines early.

By blake

July 7, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

TODD WHERE IS DERRICK'S PICKS?....

By Derrick Mahone

July 7, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Good list Todd, here is what I’m going with:

Class AAA 1. Darren Myles Jr., Carver-Atlanta 2. Jarvis Jones, Carver-Columbus 3. Branden Smith, Washington 4. Donavan Tate, Cartersville 5. Michael Bowman, Ridgeland 6. DeAngelo Pease, Cairo 7. Chris Burnette, Troup 8. Corrico Hawkins, Baldwin 9. LeRon Furr, Carver-Columbus 10. Brandon Watts, Washington County 11. Qua Huzzie, LaGrange

Class AA 1. Jamal Patterson, Henry County 2. Rashard Smith, Dublin 3. Dallas Lee, Buford 4. Drew Little, Henry County 5. Michael Ozment, Pepperell 6. Eric McDaniel, Calhoun 7. Chris Crenshaw, Jefferson 8. Michael Henley, Cook County 9. Shawn Williams, Early COunty 10. Justin Beasley, Banks County 11. C’Reon Arnold, Cook County

Class A 1. Washaun Ealey, ECI 2. Dexter Moody, ECI 3. Deondrick Pina, Schley County 4. Tanner Bryant, Landmark Christian 5. Jatoyaus Jones, Lincoln County 6. J.C. Lanier, ECI 7. McKay Matthews, Athens Academy 8. Tytus Baynes, Social Circle 9. William Pearl, Our Lady of Mercy 10. Matt Thornton, Landmark Christian 11. Antonio Marshall, Wilcox County

By Cro25

July 7, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Another name for you from class A is LB Mark Flott from ECI. He led the world in tackles last year as a junior and he will only be better this year. He can play the run or the pass and is always around the ball.

By Steve

July 7, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Is Michael Daughtry by any chance related to former UGA basketball player Jimmy Daughtry?

By Football Guru

July 7, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

EVERYONE!!!- Please keep your eyes open for a kid name Jamal Loundry-Jackson at North Atlanta. Under Coach Tee Martin(University of Tennesse/Pittsburgh Steelers) this kid should have an excellent senior season at QB!

By slalom1

July 7, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

Glad to see the respect given to Qua Huzzie of LG. He will turn out to be the best of the best to come from LG. Also happens to be a great kid, with outstanding grades. Also, a natural leader. One name which will probably not appear in any pre-season #1’s, is junior QB/WR Jamius Gunsby of LG. However, look for him to make ALL of the season ending “all-state” teams. The 6’4 217 lb. Gunsby is simply a phenomenal athlete. If he can keep his head screwed on straight, he will become Georgia’s most recruited athlete in 2009. Similar to Deron Furr, but bigger and faster. LG is loaded for 2008. Rivals 3 star DE Tristian Johnson,(6’3 222)has already received major offers, including Kentucky. DE Kobina Essandoh,(6’2 208), along with LB Demetri Merritt, (6’4 212) are also receiving major college interest. Just one more and I will shut up. Joe Mansour. Only a junior, but quite possibly among the Top 3 kickers in the nation.His field goal range is easily within 53-60 yds. On kick-offs, he will put it in the end zone EVERY time. The question is “How far? Maybe out of the stadium?” His punting skills are equally impressive. Again, I appreciate the well deserved praise for Huzzie. Now, I will shut up.

By Trojans

July 7, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

LOL,no super 11 without a Peach County representative…

REGGIE TAYLOR CB/FS 4.36,knock your jockstrap off and committed to Auburn

By Bwolf83

July 7, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

What about Cody Getz (RB) from Buford? He was a special teams play maker on punt and kickoff return. Also Andrew Sachais (DE) from Buford. He had 11 sacks along with 30+ QB pressures and 70+ tackles. He ranked second on the sack leader lists in both Hall and Gwinnett County.

By herman

July 7, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

Excellent job Derrick and Todd. everyone of your players are special. Derrick, didn’t Matt Thorton graduate last year? One of Bryant’s favorite targets.

By drock08

July 7, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

To:Slalom01 53 more days before that Lagrange Defense get tested by the Cougars offense. Offensive Line led by 2 D1 recruits which includes Ray Beno 6’2 280 who has double digits offers. Russell Powell QB who pass for over 2400 yds and ran for over 500 yds. Keandreas Wynn who has over 2200 rushing the last two year. E.J. Houston a three year starter at WR who runs a 4.3 and Alan Bonner a member of Todd Super 11 for AAAAA. The offensive line who average over 275 lbs gave up only 10 sacks last year.

By drock08

July 7, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

To Slalom1 53 Days Newnan Defense Two three year starters on Defense Dustin Russell who had 11 sacks last year and Braland Geter who may be the quickest DL in metro Atlanta. LB Leland Russell who will be a 4 year starter is a D1 recruit at 5’11 225 4.7 forty. Will Koran 6’3 225 OLB also a D1 recruit. Three rising Juniors Anthony Cruever, Adam Strakose and team leading Tackler Alexander Olgetree. In the secondary two year starter Jay Beasley leads the Corners with FS Alec Olgetree 6’3 215 who I think could be the highest recruited player in GA next year. Grangers receivers strap up your chin strap.

By blac

July 7, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

Thanks Todd for giving tyus from Social Circle a little press. He is a great player and very strong. He’s at his original school unlike everyone else. Watch out.

By TRUTH

July 7, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

Todd and Derrick, good lists for those classes. I know this may not sound politically correct and may get a lot of people upset but don’t you think with the exception of 2 or 3 of these guys, the class they play in really negates them being compared for super 11 with guys in 5A and 4A? I mean really besides Jones, Ealey and maybe Farms, some of these others stand out because of the lack of talent they play against. Would Beasley have been as successful running the ball in region 1AAAAA? You put them on a strong AAAAA team and some of these guys would not even get playing time. I think at least when considering the Super 11, that should be taken into consideration. How would this kid do if they were playing against Lowndes or Tucker or Norcross or Stephenson with the speed these teams have? I’m not trying to take anything away from these guys and what they accomplished in their respective classes but if you are comparing…it seems like comparing apples with oranges with some of these guys.

By Derrick Mahone

July 7, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Herman Thanks. Just got off telephone with Tanner and he confirm that Matt indeed just graduate. On the all-state nomination from I had from last season listed him as a junior. I knew Jimmy Eden and Walt Lenard had graduated, but forgot about Matt.

Class AAA 1. Darren Myles Jr., Carver-Atlanta 2. Jarvis Jones, Carver-Columbus 3. Branden Smith, Washington 4. Donavan Tate, Cartersville 5. Michael Bowman, Ridgeland 6. DeAngelo Pease, Cairo 7. Chris Burnette, Troup 8. Corrico Hawkins, Baldwin 9. LeRon Furr, Carver-Columbus 10. Brandon Watts, Washington County 11. Qua Huzzie, LaGrange

Class AA 1. Jamal Patterson, Henry County 2. Rashard Smith, Dublin 3. Dallas Lee, Buford 4. Drew Little, Henry County 5. Michael Ozment, Pepperell 6. Eric McDaniel, Calhoun 7. Chris Crenshaw, Jefferson 8. Michael Henley, Cook County 9. Shawn Williams, Early County 10. Justin Beasley, Banks County 11. C’Reon Arnold, Cook County

Class A 1. Washaun Ealey, ECI 2. Dexter Moody, ECI 3. Deondrick Pina, Schley County 4. Tanner Bryant, Landmark Christian 5. Jatoyaus Jones, Lincoln County 6. J.C. Lanier, ECI 7. McKay Matthews, Athens Academy 8. Tytus Baynes, Social Circle 9. William Pearl, Our Lady of Mercy 10. Dominique Ellis, Clinch County 11. Antonio Marshall, Wilcox County

By Cro25

July 7, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

I also remember the QB from Clinch was a very talented 10th grader last year. He will be special.

By Derrick Mahone

July 7, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

TRUTH I see what you are saying and that is why you have to use the recruitment criteria in the Super 11 selections. I think if a player, let’s say in Class A, is getting recruited by a large majority of BCS Conference schools, that is one way of showing he is legit. I haven’t seen the Justin Beasley. Going by his coach’s all-state nomination from last season, he was listed as 5-9, 175 pounds. He runs a 4.5 40 and had 1,658 yards on 207 carries. Who is not to say running behind the same line as Greg Reid and Jonathan Davis that he would not be an effective running in Region 1-AAAAA or Region 6-AAAA last season. He is the same size or bigger than those two players. I always believe if a guy and play, he can play. I’ve seen Darren Myles, Jr. and Branden Smith play. They are legit and a testament is they have scholarship offers from every major school in the country. Smith played last season in Region 6-AAAA against Mays, Tucker, Marist, St. Pius and Southwest Dekalb and finished with four interceptions and 38 tackles. He averaged about five receptions a game with close to 10 touchdowns. Has a good bloodline, his brother is Denver Broncos backup QB Darrell Hackney, who played at Douglass and UAB. Every player on our Class AAA list hold multiple scholarship offers. I think you can put most these players on Lowndes or Tucker or Norcross or Stephenson they wouldn’t miss a beat.

By slalom1

July 7, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

To: “Truth”, Before making such uninformed suppositions, study your GHS football facts. Look at the rosters at most SEC schools. They are composed largely of players from small towns. Did you bother to read some of Todd’s most recent topics, such as “drafted NFL players from Ga?” Your post is an arrogant, uninformed, class conscious effort to discount the quality of play in A, AA, and AAA. Remember Herschel Walker? How about Darious Walker? Tray Blackmon? Wesley Woodyard? Sam Oljabutu? Chris Slaughter? Darius Newberry? Garrison Hearst? Champ Bailey? Ronnie Brown? Takeo Spikes? Should I name more? There are many more. Bottom line is this: Take the Top 5 teams from each classification, and let’em go at it. In the end, you will see very little if any classification disparity, as long as you keep the “best 11 players” on the field. The only advantage that some of the larger schools enjoy is a deeper roster. You have obviously snobbed the non-AAAAA, AAAA schools to the point of being embarrassingly uninformed. My guess is that you must be from the “greater Atlanta” area. Probably from Gwinnett County. And, a new comer to the area.Have you EVER seen a top calibur AAA team from south-central Georgia play? Maybe you missed the butt kicking that AAAAA Newnan has received from AAA Carrollton for the past 4 years in a row. Maybe you missed the 35-7 butt kicking that AAAAA East Coweta took from Buford(AA, N. Ga.) in 2006. You are most surely a “trans-plant” from somewhere. I am curious to know “from where?” 1-Ohio 2-Indiana 3-Pennsylvania 4-Somewhere in New England

By slalom1

July 7, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

To:” Drock08” This 2008 Newnan team has gotten me PLENTY worried. As good as LG should be this year, the Cougars look scary. I believe I have said this before, but this Newnan team, (at least on paper) looks like one of the best ever to come from our neighbors from the north. As far as the game goes, I believe the only chance LG has is to turn the game into one of defense and field position. Defensively, this LG team should be VERY good. As for field position, with a kicker like Joe Mansour, Newnan will most likely start each offensive possession with no better field position than their own 20 yard line. That is, unless the Granger offense turns the ball over. That could end up being the story of the game. The way I see it, the only way LG wins is in a VERY tight defensive battle. On the other hand, should the Granger offense fumble the game away, this could be a Cougar blow-out. On a slightly relatd note, can you explain the “Carrollton Jinx”?

By slalom1

July 7, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

To: Derrick Mahone, Good post, and well spoken. In reference to running backs who play for smaller schools, it takes me back to an interview with the great Jim Brown. He was very big and very fast for a running back in his era: 6’2 228.(4.5 speed) He was given similar questions regarding his size, compared to other running backs of his era. Granted, he was big and fast, even by today’s standards. But his answer was simple and furthermore right on the money. “Yes, I was bigger than most running backs of my era. But, the offensive linemen, for the most part were no bigger than me. Imagine what I could have done with a 300 plus pound offensive line like running backs enjoy today.”

By slalom1

July 7, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

By the way “Truth” What has Tucker ever done? How about Stephenson? Always loaded with talent, but NOTHING to show for it in the end. And Norcross? One good run? Bubba, you need to take some road trips to south Georgia this fall if you honestly have the desire to understand what GHS football is all about.

By Troup Fan

July 7, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

Please change the school name along side Chris Burnette from LaGrange to Troup. There is another school in Troup Co. beside LaGrange that can play football. GO TIGERS !!!!!! Chris is all Troup.

By Troup Fan

July 7, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

Please change the school name along side Chris Burnette from LaGrange to Troup. There is another school in Troup Co. beside LaGrange that can play football. GO TIGERS !!!!!! Chris is all Troup.

By MountainMama

July 8, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

Todd….thanks for acknowledging the tip on Chase Ellis. He did well last year after just moving in late in the summer and really not knowing any of the guys or having much time to develop those relationships on and off field that are so important between QB’s and their receivers. Not the case this year; he and all of his team mates have really “clicked” and they have mutual respect for each other’s abilities….not to mention knowing and having confidence in their coach. Chase really is (in my opinion) to be commended for choosing to stay up here in the mountains where he can and will really make a difference instead of taking the “easy” path and returning to his former winning program (where for him, he’d probably garner more college scout attention) but that isn’t all this kid is about. He is a true “TEAM” player and doesn’t possess the all too common “QB, I’m better than everyone else” mentality.

Since finding press on Towns County football isn’t easy to do, I’ll try to keep you posted each week on his some of his stats and how the team is progressing.

I’m a graduate of Towns County, more than 30 years ago, and I LOVE football…and I absolutely CANNOT WAIT for the first game. It can’t get here soon enough for me!

By REEZE

July 8, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Gentlemen, doing really good work …. Great pick with Baldwins LB Rico Hawkins , very quick and a hard hitter,taking nothing from J Jones and Q Huzzie ,Hawkins overall much better …and the best of all Cairo’s D Pease . Great arm ,great feet ,speed and a good head on the field…..And Truth these kids are awesome athletes regardless of the class they play in….Take a trip to Lagrange ,Cairo ,Columbus or Milledgeville this fall and see for yourself…….Could you imagine D Pease under center for Lowndes

By Ramon

July 8, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Darren Myles of CARVER..How is this guy a super 11..did he even play last year! You guys are a bunch of COMEDIANS!And they won’t repeat as CHAMPIONS..

By Jacketfan417

July 8, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Cairo’s Reggie Bryant is the best running back in AAA, how could you forget about him?! Also Thomasville High standout LB/RB Tyrone Williams who’s already committed to play for South Florida should be on the list. WE PLAY FOOTBALL IN SOUTH GEORGIA TOO

By NTH Trojans

July 8, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

Todd,

Great choice on Chase Vassar. I’ve seen the kid play the last 2 years on several occasions, and he has kept his team in the game on multiple occasions when they should have been getting blown out. Great nose for the ball, always seem to be in the right place at the right time. He will have a great career at UGA. He not only is a great player, but an all around great kid, on and off the field.

By NTH Trojans

July 8, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

slalom, Looks like it will either your Grangers or Cairo as preseason #1. I can’t wait till the season starts. Keep me updated on the players to watch for from LaGrange and the south Ga. schools, and I’ll do the same for you with the north Ga. and (hopefully) metro schools.

By slalom1

July 8, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

To: NTH TROJANS, Good to hear from you again. Hope your North Hall team does well again this season. As for LG, from a purely talent and experience standpoint, this 2008 LG team may be THE best I have ever seen from a talent standpoint. About 30 seniors. This includes no less than 4 major D-1 players with numerous offers.(all defensive players, along with juniors Jamius Gunsby and kicker Joe Mansour) For what it is worth, Mansour is simply amazing. On kick-offs, I can only recall 2 or 3 times that he failed to kick the ball into the end zone. The question was, “How far?” He is equally as talented as a punter and place kicker. I believe his first field goal was from 50 yards.(That was as a freshman). That is the good news. The bad news is the same old story. I am worried about the offense. As long as they do not fumble the game away, they will be very difficult to beat. Watch out for junior QB/WR/Athlete Jamius Gunsby. At 6’4 217 and running a 4.5 forty, he could be this year’s version of Deron Furr. This kid is extremely talented. As long as he can keep his head screwed on straight, he could be THE difference maker. Unfortunately, he has a history of losing his head during game time. What makes this so bizarre, is to the best of my understanding, he is very bright in the class room. In addition to the BIG 4 on defense that already have major D-1 offers, there could be another 6 or 7 players to receive scholarships to play somewhere. Again, the BIG question as far as LG goes is offense. In particular at QB. What about North Hall? Stephens County? Keep me up to date. Again, good to hear from you.

By TRUTH

July 8, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

Figured my comments would get people riled up. I’m not from Metro, not from Gwinnett, not from up North. Just a person with an opinion like the rest of you. Believe it or not, they still do allow those in the USA. Like I said, some of those picked would make it in the higher classifications but I still say the majority of those in AAA, AA and A would not make it.

You ask what the teams I mentioned have won. You just made my point, they are in such competitive classes that championships don’t come as easy, even with all their talent. It is a dog fight almost every game.

Again, not trying to offend anyway and it is not my intention to degrade players from the smaller classes. Just have an opinion like everyone else.

By drock08

July 9, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

To Slalom1 RE:The Carrollton jinx. The biggest factor is that Carrollton went into the games expecting to win and Newnan going into the games thinking they are going to win. I know from the middle of last year the Cougars finally realized that they are talented and started walking with a Swagger. I would have love to see a Carrollton game this year but it the Grangers instead. I really think it will be a great game with a early prediction of Newnan 20- Lagrange 10. I’m looking forward to see Jarrius under pressure and seeing what he does with the ball.

By buddy

July 9, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

TO TRUTH....YOUR OPINION STINKS...WHY DON'T YOU TAKE UP MARBLES.....

By buddy

July 9, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

TO TRUTH....YOUR OPINION STINKS...WHY DON'T YOU TAKE UP MARBLES...ALL OF THESE PLAYERS ARE GOOD...

By leechampion

July 9, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

slalom1 I will be at newnan/Lagrange on Aug 29 and we need to hook up and swap stories and opinions as we share an appreciation for Lagrange, Carver, Shaw, Carrollton, Newnan, Peach Counties of the world. People need to start understanding just how tough a lot of 3A teams are

By southgafootball.com

July 9, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Derrick — how can you not name Johnnie Farms of Perry to the AAA team? That is a bit puzzling to me. Other than that, I thought your teams were nice.

By C.B.S

July 9, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

How could you not pick Cairo’s RB reginald bryant. he is being recruted by a lot of D1 colleges.

By C.B.S

July 9, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

How could you not pick Cairo’s RB reginald bryant. he is being recruted by a lot of D1 colleges.

By gilbert

July 9, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

SLALOM1,I AGREE WITH YOU COMPLETELY                       REGARDING STATEMENTS MADE BY TRUTH.CAN'T WAIT FOR FOOTBALL SEASON.

By slalom1

July 9, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

To: Leechampion, Words well expressed and well taken. Personally, it is a shame that the LG vs. Newnan rivalry is not an annual event. Your prediction of a 20-10 win for the Cougars sounds quite possible.(Maybe even worse for the Grangers.) Here is the way I see it: The Grangers’ “D” will be strong. The Grangers’ kicking game will be EXTREMELY strong. On the other hand, no one, including myself knows what to expect from the Granger offense. Should they bring their “A” game, with Gunsby leading the way, the Cougars could be in for a shock. This kid is good enough to score any time, anywhere he has the ball. But, the Granger OL is small.(As they usually are. But, quick.) On paper, this should be an easy, but hard fought win for the Cougars. The trump card is Gunsby. He could turn out to be the difference in the game. Like you, I WILL be at the game. It would be fun telling old war stories about the LG vs. Newnan rivalry.

By ok2go

July 9, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

What happened to Daniel Drummond - AAA - Flowery Branch - Ranked higher than Qua Huzzle by Scout - Same # tackles plus played both ways - Averaged 6 YPC as Fullback - Played every play both ways for past 3 years - Already offered and committed to Georgia Tech as Fullback / B-Back. Maybe he’ll make Jeff Hood’s list if he does one.

By Todd Holcomb

July 9, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

How could you not pick Cairo’s RB reginald bryant. he is being recruted by a lot of D1 colleges.

All of these guys in AAA are being recruited by a lot of D1 colleges except maybe Pease, who I just happen to like a lot. : )

Not saying Bryant shouldn’t be on there. I’m sure he’s good. But ALL of those I listed are major recruits.

Also Thomasville High standout LB/RB Tyrone Williams who’s already committed to play for South Florida should be on the list. WE PLAY FOOTBALL IN SOUTH GEORGIA TOO

Thanks for pointing him out, but keep in mind that about 1/3 of the 33 players that I listed are from below the Columbus-Macon-Augusta line. Most top prospects are from North Georgia due to population.

By drock08

July 9, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

To: Slalom From DRock 08. We really need to get together for the first game. Also I truly believe Coach Pardue and his coaching talents. I think the Grangers will get stronger as the season goes on as the offense develop. I predict another Championship run for the Grangers. Coach Pardue has put together one of the toughest schedule I have seen. Newnan, Stephens Co Shaw Carver Col and Troup and beginning with a Talented Westlake team in your preseason game. Wow. I hope we can drag Todd and Derrick out of Gwinnett County

By slalom1

July 9, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

To: TRUTH, You just do not get it, Bubba. Suppose your theory of the superior teams being dominated by classes AAAA and AAAAA be true. That would mean that the offensive lines in those respective classes would also be superior. Should that be the case, a running back from A, AA, or AAA would have a much BIGGER, QUICKER OL to run behind than in their respective A, AA, or AAA lines. More specifically, if you are a stud running back, would your numbers be better running behind a 190 lb line or a 280 lb line? Think about it. The numbers do not lie. Getting back to Stephenson, Tucker, and Norcross. Regardless of the competition, I have seen no trend of championships coming from any of the above. Until you have the goods to lay on South-Central Georgia, just sit back and enjoy your delusional dreams of what “may have been”.

By slalom1

July 9, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

To: DROCK08, This should turn out to be a great year for GHS football. Too bad LG must face Newnan in Game 1. Regardless of the outcome, I believe LG will be in the hunt for another state title by season’s end. Speaking of which, I see no one in AAAAA who may have anything for Lowndes except for the Cougars. This could be their year. But, Lowndes looks awefully hard to beat. My prediction is that Newnan will begin the season ranked #2 in AAAAA, with Lowndes ranked #1. (Lowndes may quite possibly be ranked #1 nationally as well.) The Cougars will win their region. Should the cards fall into their proper place, I believe that a Lowndes vs. Newnan state title game is a good possibility. Do not know if you recall the 1992 Newnan team lead by Derrick Stegall, but to this day, I have never seen a more talented GHS football team. How they lost to Colquitt County in the first round of the play-offs has always had me stumped.

By WolverineDad

July 10, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

Ben Emert is a name to watch out of West Forsyth, a first year varsity school in AAA. He is a Jr. and a powerful running back and put up big numbers last year against 5A JV teams like Norcross, Peachtree Ridge, etc.

By PACOVIA

July 10, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

LOOK I KNOW WERE TALKING AAA AND AA BUT IAM TELLING YOU GUYS REALLY DROP THE BALL NOT PUTTING PRINCE KENT OUT OF NORCROSS HIGH SCHOOLIN THE MIX IN THE AAAAA CLASS IAM TELLING YOU 6-3 6-4 CORNER 195 SWIFT GOT SPEED AND CAN TACKLE PLUS HE PLAYES WR AND GOES ALL OVER TO CAMPS AND COMPETE VERY WELL WITH THE OTHER ELITE PLAYERS. WOW DO YOUR HOME WORK

By silky slim

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

I ALWAYS KNEW SHAWN WILLIAMS WOULD BE ON THE LIST HAVE THE SIZE THE SPEED AN THE PHSICAL ABBILITIES TO BE A GREAT PLAYER AND I SEEN HIM RUN DOWN CHRIS CLAY FROM A STAND STILL

By NTH Trojans

July 10, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

slalom,

It’s hard to say right now after graduating so many players last year. If spring camp is any indication, we should be fine. We also lost our starting RB (transferred). But on the bright side, we will be forced to throw the ball more at North Hall than we have in the past. That should make us more well rounded. I guess we’ll know more after our first game against Buford. As for Stephens Co., their stud RB graduated, as did their QB, but you know S.C., they are a lot like LG, in the fact that they just reload. I hope in the next few years that NH schedules a Home and home with LG. I wouldn’t miss it.

By slalom1

July 10, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

NTH Trojans, The 2007 season was about as much fun as I can remember, even though my team (LG) had their most disappointing finish of the millenium. 8-3, and out in the first round. Hopefully with most everybody back, including about 30 seniors, this season should be an improvement. However the schedule is MUCH tougher. Getting back to 2007, I became a fan of North Hall, NSWR, Carver-Col, Buford, and several other teams that I would have not paid as much attention to had the Grangers advanced further in the play-offs. With the shrinking down of Region 2AAA from 11 teams to 7, maybe the possibility of an LG vs. N. Hall match up could happen in the next few years. That idea would get a “high 5” from me.(Still have not made it up to the “Brickyard”, but is on my list of things to do.) Speaking of N. Hall, I am already interested in the N. Hall vs. Buford match up. That would be a worthy road trip. In the mean time, I have been studying up on the Newnan Cougars for Game 1. They look mighty tough on both sides of the ball. Good luck in 2008.

By yo

July 10, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Journal Constitution and all Georgia High School football fans, in fact the whole state of Georgia….WE NEED YOUR HELP! ESPN has been doing nightly spots on 20 different cities and towns with the plans of declaring on of these places as Title Town USA. Valdosta is the city from the state of Georgia they will be showing on 7/16 episode of Sportscenter. The night before our competition will be no less than NEW YORK City. The winner is determined by fans voting for their nomination. Not just New York but Los Angelos and other bigger cities are who we are up against. Has David met its Goliath? I would say so. Online voting begins 7/24 through 7/26 at this location: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/titletown/index Lets make this something the whold state of Georgia can be proud of and claim. Help us out, ya’ll! We had 5000 fans out on a Wednesday night in July trying to show support as ESPN shot what they plan to show on the 16th. Jessie Tuggle (VSU alumn and ex Falcon) came down for the event. Randal Godfrey (Lowndes and Bulldog alumn) was interviewed. Help us out, ya’ll! Come on AJC….turn out the vote!!!!

By drock08

July 10, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

To Slalom01 Yes I was a 10th grader at NHS when that team led by Derrick Stegall and Corey Bridges was upseted by Colquitt County. It can easily happen when a team is looking ahead of an opponent. Also we just got outcoached that night by Colquitt County. I hope this Newnan team stay focus on every team as they make their run this year.

By slalom1

July 10, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

YO, I agree. ALL GHS fans should join in on this effort. All of us can punch it out on this blog, but when all is said and done, we are all proud of being from Georgia, and furthermore we should join together in this effort. As “YO” stated it IS a David vs. Goliath event. Let’s all join in and give David a helping hand. This is good for ALL of Georgia.

By perry

July 11, 2008 3:28 AM | Link to this

AFTER ALL IS SAID AND DONE TANNER BRYANT IS THE ONE…..

By yo

July 11, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this

Thanks Slalom…come on AJC..turn out the vote! Can you imagine if little Valdosta, Ga. were to beat New York, San Francisco, Los Angelos, Detroit, Chicago for Title Town USA? come on AJC..Turn out the vote!

By Joshua Bagriansky

July 11, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

What do you guys think of Patterson at Henry Co.? What kind of offense do they run there?

By slalom1

July 11, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

To: Drock08 Glad you remember the 1992 Cougars. Do you remember the 19-3 butt kicking the Cougars put on LG that same year? Newnan was ranked #2, LG ranked #3. The game was no where near as close as the score. Keep in mind this was an LG team who were defending state and NATIONAL champions, with lots of returning starters from 1991. During the same 1992 season, LG played Clarke-Central during the regular season, and put the wood to them 24-0. Clarke Central would end up making it to the state title game to play Valdosta. The Gladiators were up 14-0 at half time, but Valdosta prevailed 17-14.Point is, the Cougars whipped a VERY good LG team. I will always remember the 92 Cougars as one of the best to ever play in GHS football. Too bad things ended so early. They were clearly a better team than Clarke-Central that year. As for being “out-coached”, Jim Hughes was one of the greatest. In 1991, his Packers were no where near as talented as LG. But, they made a game of it in the state final. Honestly, a missed extra point by the Packers may have been the difference in the game. After having seen the 1992 Cougars manhandle LG, I felt they were just about invincible. I did not see the Newnan vs. Colquit game, but from what I read and heard, the game was played on a wet field, which took away much of the speed advantage from the Cougars. As for 2008, I am with you. I hope the Cougars can keep focused and go all the way to the final.(With the exception of Game 1.)

By G-dog

July 12, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

I am a Carver alumni, and I seen almost all of Carver Atl. games last year. And Darren Myles Jr. is not a super 11. Now his cousin is the one thats a super 11. He led the team in interceptions and he had a couple of kick returns and punt returns for TDs. He also was the one that block the kick against White county in the first round last year that would’ve sent them packing in the first round. You could’ve also considered Demond Dennis the running back for a super 11 as well. He led the team in rushing with over 1300 yrds. He also led the team in touchdowns. Darren Myles wasn’t even the MVP of his team, so how you go list him as one of the best players in the state? Don’t get me wrong, he is going to be a key player for them to repeat as champions, but he is no super 11. And please coach Myles, do not put him at QB cause he constantly drops the snap! And he is not accurate. Play the sophmore he is better.

By TRUTH

July 13, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Does the ajc high school sports department go on vacation the entire summer. It is very boring and redundant when stories on the high school home page changes once every two-three weeks over the summer. I know there is no high school sports going on but their is AAU tournaments, football camps, swim meets, travel baseball, not to metnion high school team workouts for both football and basketball and the list goes on and on. They are still high school players.

It is just disappointing that a major metro sports department cannot change their home page on a more consistent time frame. I travel a lot and the ajc high school sports does not measure up to other large metro cities and even a few smaller ones. When I can be on the road for two weeks and checking my home town page and it stays the same day in and day out, that says something about the paper, editor and reporters.

By john s

July 13, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

I sleeper in class A, could be AA running back James Colquit, he has play the last two years on defense and behind some good AA running backs, was used as a reciever also, if he steps into the traditional 20 carries a game for the running back at AA don’t be surprised to see big numbers. He is strong and has better break away speed and moves then the past backs.

By Edward

July 13, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

How could you put Qua Huzzie at number 5 he is not better than anyone on that list. he should have been 10th.

By citi slicker

July 13, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

u forgot bout arnold walker at mcnair he had 1300 yards in ten games

By slalom1

July 13, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

Edward, You have obviously not seen Qua Huzzie play. I have watched Wesley woodyard, Sam Olajabutu, (both 2 time All SEC LBs.)Also Tray Blackmon, who was fabulous. And, they were great. But, Huzzie may be THE best I have ever seen. This kid is simply unbelievable. He could play LB, or safety. He is THAT good. Who are you comparing him to? Before you answer, compare him to someone that you followed throughout high school and to the next level. Think about it. My prediction is that Huzzie will probably sign with South Carolina. But, unlike most GHS athletes, Huzzie is a student first, and just finished his junior year in HS with the highest GPA in his class. He may go to Vanderbilt, or Duke. This kid could turn pro, or become a surgeon. The choice is his. Again, he IS that good.

By slalom1

July 13, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

Truth, This is a GHS football blog. Gripe all you want to about general coverage, but there are lots of us out there who are interested in GHS football 12 months of the year. This is OUR blog. If you are unhappy, take some medication. Or better yet, buy a bunch of sports magazines @ 8.95 each, which cover the sport of your choice. This is simple. If you do not wish to be here, LEAVE, and….don’t let the screen door hit you on the way out.

By slalom1

July 13, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Truth, By the way, you have never told us where you came from. Be straight up. Tell us the TRUTH.

By Be Real

July 14, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Lets be real the best QB in class A is Trey Miller. Just go check out his numbers he has been top in the county in passing two years in a row and going on three. Check out him and his team and anybody that has Pearl on their list before him obvisouly didnt watch the beat down that Whitefield Academy put on Our Lady of Mercy the only QB that could be ranked better than this guy is Tanner Bryant but he is not nearly as versatile

By gilbert

July 15, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

TO BE REAL….LANDMARK CHRISTIAN 31 WHITEFIELD 13 TANNER BRYANT COMPLETED 11 OF 18 PASSES FOR 174 YARDS, AND LED ALL RUSHERS WITH 115 YARDS ON 21 ATTEMPTS……THREW FOR 4 TOUCHDOWN PASSES.ENOUGH SAID…….

By Junior

July 16, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Good picks on the AA list with Cook High’s C’reon Arnold and Michael Henley. How about the third standout returning to the Hornet defense for his senior season. DE Tevin Sims had 72 tackles and 17 sacks to go along with 3 blocked kicks. search his name on youtube for video highlights.

By Sumner

July 17, 2008 3:03 AM | Link to this

while they might not be good enough to make the super 11 squad i would like to mention a couple of guys, DE Devarick Jones SR. and LB Tevin Davis a JR. both a big, fast, and strong boys from Mary Persons High School. Jones is about 6’3ish 240 lbs 4.7/4.8 40 and finished 5th in his weight class at the state weightlifting comp last year. Davis is about 6’2 220 lbs 4.5/4.6 40. Look for Mary Persons to do well this year, Coach Walker has abandoned the throw 20 times/game and started to run the ball more, After the 2009-2010 season they won’t have a team for a while though

By GO Rams!!

July 19, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this

I was just flipping through some posts and I came across the name Reginald Bryant.. very could athlete. I played against him in high school and he deserves to be on that list. Now with that being said, I’m from Worth County Home of the Rams. We have a fullback down here by the name of Buster Jackson who led Region 1-AAA in rushing as a fullback. Had close to 1,400 all-purpose yards as a junior. I also believe we one of the best defensive front 4 in South Georgia. BUT WAIT DON’T GET TO LOUD CAUSE ALL THE OTHER TEAMS DON’T KNOW WERE COMING YET. GO RAMS!!!!!!!!

By Swampghost

August 1, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Tay Cooper is Clinch QB. He is the number one QB in class A. Those naysayer just watch and see.