Prep Zone

By james

December 29, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

To top heavy with Atlanta Players

By Michael

December 29, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

* Great Job * I feel that you did a great job. I have followed high school football very close this year. I have kept up with the leading stats in all classes. I don’t know of anyone that you missed. Agian, great job at a very difficult task !!

By Doc

December 29, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

You not only missed you did so on a grand scale. Obiously I have big problems with your judgement. You should consider writhing about other topics for the ajc in the future. Only one QB threw for 3700 yards 5 yards shy of the all time single season state record, had 27 TD’s and a 70% comnpoletion rate and his name wasn’t Mike Tamburo. Hutson Mason not being your 1st Team QB AAAAA is akin to choosing a baptist as pope. It is so far off one has to wonder what you covered, saw or read about all year. The rest of your colleagues across the state from Columbus to Augusta, Macon to Valdosta got it right the week befor. You really should consider another line of work. You embarrassed everyone by your silliness. Jim, Marietta

By wolverine fan

December 29, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Hey Doc, Sounds like you forgot to take your medication this morning.

By AAAA fan

December 29, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

I think you got it exactly right, especially when it comes to Mt. Zion-J’boro WR, Drexel Copeland. I’ve had the pleasure of watching this kid in action and I think he is one the the most overlooked high school players out there. The coach that lands him is going to look like a recruiting genius.

By Columbia Blue

December 29, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

One player selected from Camden after winning a State Championship? That is ok, we are accustomed to being shafted by the AJC. Also, wouldn’t Jeff Herron be the selection for Coach of the year? Heck, who cares anyway. Congratulations Atlanta city and metro schools. You guys get the thumbs up AGAIN. If I remember correctly, Camden is the State Champion. Thank God that wasn’t a selection by the AJC.Also, Robert Wiliamas # 22 from Camden wasn’t selected? Did you watch the Newnan and PR game, evidentally not.

By Top Cat

December 29, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

This list should be renamed the North Georgia All-State Team. You take the All -State players we’ll take the Trophy’s.

By sprtdog

December 29, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

you are certainly smarter than GSWA who did not have Cairo’s Angelo Pease as the AAA offensive player of the year. The Syrupamker QB had 1000 yards rushing and passing for two consecutive seasons

By Realisic

December 29, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

As the father of a senior offensive lineman who was a strong All State candidate on a Class A team that made the quarterfinals, I question how a 5’ 9” 210 lb junior on a team that was average at best makes the team at that position.

By wildmanhoya

December 29, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Like a lot things, such as rankings at any level, All this and All that teams are subjective. There is no way anyone can really say who the best are because there are too many variables and nobody can see everybody play.

Consider the variables: For example, a lineman might not give up any sacks yet is it because he is that good, the competition that bad or the QB gets the ball out on time. A RB might rack up big yards yet maybe that same RB behind a lesser line might not do near as good or maybe he stays in games other, better backs come out do their ganme being a blowout. Same with a WR that has all kind of catches. maybe it is because the line provides time and the QB gets it where it is suppose to be when it is suppose to be.

My point is, why even bother with this stuff. There is simply to no way to really gauge what is what. I think anyone knowledgable about sports will know that of all team sports football is the one where every position is predicated on someone else doing their jobs.

By coolcell

December 29, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

L.Furr should have been 1st team AAA @ LB…

By Todd Holcomb

December 29, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Well, we’re taking less heat than I expected. Of course, it’s early. : )

Re: Camden County

There are 52 players recognized in each class, and Camden had 4 of the 52 in Class AAAAA Camden had the best team in Georgia, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Camden had any of the best 25 players in the state. That’s not saying that we’re correct to have only one Camden player on the first team, but more often than not, an undeserving player from a state championship team makes All State than the other way around.

Personally, I thought Robert Williams was Camden’s best player. But in Class AAAAA, there are several big-time linebackers. It’s tough to crack the lineup.

Re: Hutson Mason/Mike Tamburo

Taking Mike Tamburo as our QB in AAAAA is probably the most outside-the-mainstream choice we made. I was glad to see that the GSWA (AP) team had Mason as first team and also player of the year, because Mason deserves any recognition that he gets for the season he had. Class AAAAA deserves at least two All State quarterbacks this season, if not three with Russ Powell of Newnan.

But we chose Tamburo despite his lesser statistics because we feel he’s still the best QB in AAAAA, regardless of the passing numbers. That’s easy to second-guess, for sure. But Tamburo throws well, he runs well. He’s done it for three seasons and he’s the all-time leading career passer in the highest classification.

And not that Mason or Powell or anyone else in AAAAA faced easy competition, but I’d argue that no one played against more challenging defenses than Tamburo. Five of his games were against teams that ranked in the Top 10 in scoring defense in Class AAAAA, and that doesn’t include Byrnes, the South Carolina state champ that finished nationally ranked.

And while I didn’t survey everyone, I suspect that if you asked coaches which QB they’d take to start a high school team in Georgia among any in the state based on what they brought to the table this fall, Tamburo would get the most votes because of his experience and dual-threat abilities.

But again, we could be wrong.

Re: This list should be renamed the North Georgia All-State Team. You take the All -State players we’ll take the Trophy’s.

That’s a common assumption, but if you do the math, you won’t find any basis for it.

60 percent of Georgia’s high school football teams are north of Columbus/Macon.

60 percent of our All State players are north of Columbus/Macon.

60 percent of this year’s state champions are north of Columbus/Macon.

Sounds fair to me.

As the father of a senior offensive lineman who was a strong All State candidate on a Class A team that made the quarterfinals, I question how a 5’ 9” 210 lb junior on a team that was average at best makes the team at that position.

I’ll admit that picking Class A lineman is probably the place where we’re going to make the most ”errors.” I’m not saying that about the player you mention - who many told me was Region 4-A’s best lineman - but there are no stats, just anecdotes and lobbyists to trust. Even if you see the players in person, most aren’t watching the linemen.

So it usually comes down to how good a job is the coach or the reporter that covers the team selling a particular player. In the higher classes, especially AAAAA, the prime suspects are more well known, and so if you miss, you aren’t missing by far. But Class A is a crapshoot.

L.Furr should have been 1st team AAA @ LB

He made first-team All State w/ the AP. So you’re not alone in this opinion. Also, Jarvis Jones might’ve been defensive player of the year in AAA, but the injury knocked him out of contention.

My point is, why even bother with this stuff. There is simply to no way to really gauge what is what. I think anyone knowledgable about sports will know that of all team sports football is the one where every position is predicated on someone else doing their jobs.

I pretty much agree with all you said.

But why do we bother with it? Because the pros still outweigh cons. Even if we don’t have the best 27 players on the first team, I can promise that all 27 who are named first team are very, very good players, and honors are nice.

We put tons of hours into this and take the job very seriously, and while it may be impossible to make all the ”right” choices, it’s also far from pulling names out of a hat. If you make the All State team, you’ve accomplished something, whether there’s you’re the absolute best at your position or not.

I’d like to think that all State should be something that you’re proud to make, but not insulted if you don’t make. After all, no matter how much we try, there’s still guesswork involved.

By Columbia Blue

December 29, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

To Todd Holcomb

Todd I can understand the reply that was given; however, you did not reply on how Jeff Herron wasn’t selected as coach of the year. You said, “yes Camden did win the State Champioonship but that does not necessarily mean they had the best players”. If we did not have what is considered the best players, then it must have been the coaching. Heck, we did not win the coaching award either. I will admit, Newnan and PR had better athletes than Camden;therefore, what is your explaination for not selecting Herron? We only had one player selected by the AJC as being first team. If it isn’t coaching or athletes then what is it? It must be luck, right. We traveled 6 hours to Newnan—-Camden 27 Newnan 7——We traveled 6 hours to Atlanta——Camden 21 PR 14.Sounds like a lot of traveling====You would have thought PR would have had the upper hand but that wasn’t the case. Ok Todd, the question is, if we did not have all state players or a all state coach that has won 3 state titles then what is it? Yea I know, I have you between a rock and a hard place——Can you wiggle out? Jeff Herron not being selected as coach of the year is totally crazy——He beat a very good Northside team (which I consider the # 2 team in the state)A well coached team in Woodstock——-Beat the unbeatable Newnan—-and then beat the best North Ga could provide PR.I am looking forward to your reply on how a bunch of south Ga kids came to Atlanta, won the State championship——-have one first team player—-and herron not being selected as Coach of the year. PR had how many D1 athletes? We have one. It must have been coaching because their coach was selected by the AJC as coach of the year.

By Kasper

December 29, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Absolutely, you not only picked an excellent athlete but a great student. Mt.Zion- WR- Drexel “Riverdale” Copeland is the epitome of a student-athlete. I agree with screen name AAAA Fan. Whatever college this young man attend, the coach is in for a delightful treat! If you have never seen this kid play. You missed a great show!!! HE IS THE BOMB!!!!

By Win

December 29, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

It makes sense for the 5A all-state selections to be Atlanta based but not so much for the other classes. Fortunately, that seems to be more or less the way it worked out. I still think your biggest miss was Robert Wiliams. He’s easily among the top 4 linebackers in 5A. Also didn’t P-Tree grab coach of the year when they made the finals a couple years ago. If so, the award could have easily gone elsewhere.

By drock08

December 29, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

I agree that Coach Herron from Camden needs to be Coach of the year Also picking LBs at DB instead of Ogletree makes me wonder about the selection process.

By Todd Holcomb

December 29, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

Columbia:

Good comments. YHerron as coach of the year would be a great choice. I could also support Nick Siemer, Robert Williams & DeAngelo Smith as first team players. All are legit first-team candidates.

But first, here’s my take on Herron: P-Ridge was not ranked in preseason. Camden was ranked No. 3. But not only that, Camden was easily in the ‘big three,’ meaning clearly ahead of anyone else, IMO.

In preseason, I didn’t think anyone had a real shot except Lowndes & Camden, and maybe Northside. So from that standpoint, Camden was not that surprising. P-Ridge was.

The other element - one that you’ll hate :) - is that if a coach has won the award before, which Herron did in 1999 and 2003, I believe, then I’m not likely to support him winning again unless he does something unexpected. Camden winning this year was not unexpected.

In fact, if I were second-guessing the choice of Ballard, my next choices would’ve been Chip Lindsey at Lassiter and Mike O’Brien at Woodstock. Chris Parker at Chapel Hill was another. He went from 0-10 to 9-3.

Back to the point about having won it before, note that Tom Fallaw was AAA coach of the year, and Cairo went No. 1 wire to wire. But Fallaw has never been coach of year year, and we believe he deserves recognition for taking that program back to the top, even if 2008 by itself was not a surprise. Herron has already received that recognition at Camden. Doesn’t mean he can’t do it again, but the bar is set higher for him now.

Now, regarding the players, let me rephrase what I said. Camden DID have the best players - overall. Camden had MORE good players than anyone. Most of Camden’s starters returned from what probably was the No. 2 team in Class AAAAA the season before. Camden was loaded.

But does that mean Camden had the most players who were among the 25 best players in the state? Not necessarily. You can win big without stars, and you can be mediocre despite having 2-3 superstars.

Another issue that is pertinent to Camden: Often, it came down to a choice between “Camden’s best LB” and ”some guy with similar stats but who is going to Georgia or Tennessee.”

Fact that a player has committed to an ACC/SEC school doesn’t mean much — unless their reputation is supported by those who have seen them up close. In Class AAAAA, you usually have 4-6 offensive lineman and 3-5 linebackers who are ACC/SEC recruits who’ll also have enough reliable witnesses to testify they’re legit.

That may be why some Camden guys got squeezed out of first team.

Then there’s the case of DeAngelo Smith. Unlike LB and OL, stats are more telling with WR, RB & QB. At first, using my Mikey Tamburo argument, I supported Smith for first team because I just don’t think any WR is any better regardless of stats. But, can we justify a guy w/ 15 catches over those w/ 50-plus who also play for region championship teams?

Tough questions.

By Terri

December 29, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

I agree that this list is always Atlanta heavy. There are some good players in the south that don’t get the recognition they deserve. Do anyone know who won the North & South Allstar Game?

By Reeze

December 29, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

Todd Holcolm…….Very difficult task you have selecting all State Players of the year…..Can’t really come up with a good argument on your selections ,simply because I didn’t get the opportunity to see a Toney Williams or a Brandon Jacobs and a few others in action….But looking at their stats any reasonable football person would have to take your word……With your selections I was wondering which weighed out more , stats , athletic ability ,leadership etc or were they all considered equally……I was surprised Coffe’s Wideout Demario Bennett didn’t make your AAAAA honorable mention and Camdens Deangelo Smith did,not taking away from Smith,But Bennett has more speed ,better hands and overall ten times the athlete…I did see both in action this year…… And maybe the stats weren’t enough, but I think if you would have seen Xavier Bacon more than twice this year ,he would have been on your first team offense selection..If you were to have a AAAAA class MVP selection for 2008 Bacon would be your man.

By John

December 29, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

My only issue is not putting Van Calhoun of Rome on AAAA first team. I know this is a great year for linebackers in Georgia but he is really a special player.

By wildmanhoya

December 29, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

But why do we bother with it? Because the pros still outweigh cons

Very true and as a follower of high school football I appreciate the time and energy all of you guys at the AJC put into picking the teams. I have no argument with the picks at all save one selection as that player is more a defensive player than an offensive one yet is still deserving to be on the team. I suppose if anything else it is like the polls where people vent about who should be where. Other than pride and recognition, which is huge, they mean nothing unless we are talking about the BCS. It does keep things interesting and speaking of interesting, where is Homet lobbying for East paulding players? Sorry, had to do it.

Happy New Year to all.

By columbia blue

December 29, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

To Todd Holcomb

Great Post. Todd if you win another State Championship should you recieve the championship trophey? Isn’t that a rediculous question? Point is, why should Jeff Herron be punished for winning several State Championships and having his teams in the top 10 most every year? Coach of the year simply means that. What coach prepared his team the best, provided leadership, and achieved the ultimate goal of a State Championship? I am sure the coach at PR is a great coach. Heck he is one of Herrons students of the game. Todd, I recon the question is, if Herron was the coach of PR would they have won it all? Who knows that answer. The only thing I know for a fact, with the O Line PR had, nobody in the State would have stopped Herrons multiple attack wing T offense. One thing that really proved to be significant for Camden was the return of Greg Slattery. He is by far one of the best O line coaches in the State. These comments certainly do not take away from the head coach at PR;however, Herron has never lost a State Championship game. If I was going to hire a new coach, Jeff Herron would be my first selection. I am sure the Camden Nation will do whatever it takes to make sure Jeff remains at Camden for a very long time. In my opinion, Coach Herron ranks with Nick Hyder and Wright Bazemore. As a Camden fan, I cannot think of any head coach in the State that I would rather have. Jeff will always have Camden in the hunt for a State Championship. Next year will be a rebuilding year. We loose a lot of players.

By FATMAN

December 29, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

Todd great job !!! AA maybe the pk should have been Danie Villafuerte from Buford—he did a great job every week—he was the best kicker I saw this year !!Cannada from Dublin was good but not as good as Villafuerte—thanks to you for a great year !!

By Ant

December 29, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

I really think cornerback Caleb Lester from Douglass was overlooked.He was a shutdown corner and also a very hard-hitting corner. He has offers from Vanderbilt, Louisville, South Carolina State, and Georgia State. And he also made the All-Region team and All-County team. Great job for recognizing Douglass’s Jonathan Atchison for Class(AAAAA) All-State team.

By Gamer

December 29, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Okay Todd, here is a good one to keep things going. PLease pick and all classification team. I am serious—this will be a good blog subject. I love football—hate to see season end. Didn’t the North vs South allstars play in Columbus today. Does anyone have any information on the game?

By cpram

December 29, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

GACA allstar game -Tamburo was the best player for the south today. Everytime he came in at QB for the North offense the South got great field position ( 4th and 31, etc…). NOT IMPRESSED ! BOISE state better have a RED shirt for him.

By GA Buckeye

December 29, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

I went to the North South game today in Columbus. It was a real defensive struggle, but the difference maker was Greg Reid, who returned 2 punts for long TDs. It was OK, but as you might expect, there was not a lot of intensity, except for a few players that have it as part of their DNA. Otherwise, a lot of loafing and half-hearted effort, IMO.

By GA Buckeye

December 29, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

I have to agree, to a certain extent, with cpram, that Tamburo did not have a good game at all. It is difficult for offenses to jell in these all star games, and they were running the Wing-T, which is a precision offense. I don’t know if No. Gwinnett, runs it, but if not, that is a difficult position to put a QB in, for an ALl star game.

By Paddy

December 29, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

Granted I do not follow HS football in depth. Hutson Msson and his stats got my attention. Is He a senior? If so what schools are trying to recruit him? Sure would like a little more about this player. Thanks

By Clubhouse

December 29, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

Think the selections were fair. You could pick 10 more different all state teams and someone will have something they disagree with. I’m sure some were left out but like you said, if they are that good, they will show up in one of the other selections.

I do have a question, what tangibles do these players get from being on any of these teams. I know with the county awards they usually get a trophy. But seriously, is it just the honor because if it is, I don’t see what everyone gets so upset about. If they are a good/great player, then as long as they and the coaches recruiting them know about their ability then they are ok.

What did anyone think about the All-Star Game. I was really unimpressed overall with the game. Neither team could move the ball. Was it the coaching, the short preparation time or the lack of quality QB’s and RB’s. Thought a few players stood out. Greg Reid of course. Then others were Vasser, Burnett, Getz, Southerland, Drummond, Mitchell-Thornton, Griswould, Huzzie, Drew. The disappointments were Davis, Moody, Ealey, Demps, Paulsen, Cross, Lattimore, Norman. It may be a lot of reasons why they didn’t perform well but this is just what I saw. Anyone else?

By Clubhouse

December 29, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

Hutson Mason is a junior class of 2010. No offers yet just interest.

By vincent

December 29, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

columbia blue is an idiot! Get over yourself! Your dayum effin biased ad nauseum incessant juvenile rambling sounds like a dayum woman! Probably are.

By dekalbfb

December 29, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

im not sure about SWD DE Allen Stripling. He wasn’t a dominant force. He has the tools though

By powbeech

December 30, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this

List looks fine, and dead on with POY Greg Reid. No doubt he is the best player in Georgia. That kid is awesome!

By derrian

December 30, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

I think that jerramy barnett (#8) of Southwest Dekalb Highschool should be on the all-state team. He is a senior under sized running back(5’6 155.Lbs), but he is an electrifying player. His stats don’t tell it all but he won three critical games this season. Chamblee, Villa Rica, and Stone Mt. To me he is more than just an all-county player,and if you don’t believe me just watch him play in that game on January 24th. He also shared time in the back field with 6’0 213.Lbs junior running back Kendrum Malcome. Also, after Southwest Dekalb’s 3 star rival half back Micheal Johnson went down(RIGHT BEFORE THE MARIST GAME)for the season, we were still able to win with out him because of barnett.

By AAA

December 30, 2008 2:34 AM | Link to this

I think you overlooked great players in 3A!

By Region4A

December 30, 2008 4:17 AM | Link to this

Todd, Great work on picking these teams. It must be a very hard job for you to do. I would like to add that you got it right with the lineman you are talking about from class A. I am an opposing coach and the Nelson kid from Taylor is a beast. The only thing you missed was his size. You must have pulled those from his freshman year because that kid is much bigger than 5”9 and 210. I would say at least 6”0 and 250.

By Homet

December 30, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

wildmanhoya

It does keep things interesting and speaking of interesting, where is Homet lobbying for East paulding players? Sorry, had to do it.

Nope…if you had bothered to actually READ any of my post thru the year instead of picking a few comments here and there, you would see that I have NOT talked about any one player for EAST this year…EAST played as a TEAM all year, they were in many games outmatched talent wise but they won games by wanting it more and being better coached. From the start they were undersized and not as fast as other teams but they fed off each other and went out every friday night EXPECTING to win. MOST TIMES THEY DID!

I’m still around, just reading more than posting…waiting till we can start the countdown clock for next season!

By steve

December 30, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

i think clayton mcintosh of bremen should have been all-state. he did get honorable mention.

By wildmanhoya

December 30, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

Homet

Hope you had a very Merry Christmas and have a wonderful and Happy New Year.

By panther

December 30, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Todd - How can you not give the Coach of the Year to Coach Parker at Chapel Hill? No one had more of a turnaround this year.

By KPEagle

December 30, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Todd, think of this dream backfield! Cody Getz of Buford and Jonathan Davis of Tucker played together at Collins Hill in the eighth grade. Mikey Tamburo left after the seventh grade. What if they had stayed together? Looks like the choice to leave paid off for all 3!

By FAIRBALL

December 30, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

NOT TALKING ABOUT JARVIS JONES, TALKING ABOUT FURR, BUT WE KNOW THE DEAL DOWN HERE CHASE MISSED ON THE GSWA, AND THE AP. HAD TO MAKE IT UP SOME HOW SINCE HE’S GOING TO GEORGIA HMMM!

BETTER YET THEY HAD A MUTUAL OPPONENT WITH GAINESVILLE THIS YEAR ASK BLAKE SIMS WHO MADE HIM THINK TWICE ABOUT RUNNING?

By stevo

December 30, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

In class 4a how can statesboro not have anyone make the team or even get a mentions yet north clayton has three. Was there no one on statesboro’s team good at all.

By Topdog

December 30, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

By TopDog I cannot wait to see Blake Sims play next year he is a beast. Fairball, Carver lucked out because i heard Sims was hurt the last 3-4 games with a back and shoulder injury. I hope he stays healthy next year, its gonna be fun to watch that kid next year! He plays like a computer game. Good choice of quarterback ajc.

By ladyathlete

December 30, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

I saw some highlights on Blake Sims he is good. Me and my sons are going to go see some of his games next year, my son saw him on youtube and he really does pplay like a computer game. any colleges recruiting him at quarterback?

By lee champion

December 30, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Well now its really over. Takaway from all star game-Reid is real deal, almost killed a north reciever on perfectly timed hit and won game with two quick punt returns. Angelo Pease is fine quarterback, we knew that already. Ealey and Moody again showed nothing just like in dome final. Offense was awful on both sides, blame it on no time to really prepare. Hope the kids had fun. It was a nice day to end the season. Now we have to wait 8 months

By Itsallnavybaby

December 30, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

In the Class A Selection - I like everything, except the way you spelled Groce-(Grace).

By Band Mom Gone Wild

December 30, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Todd, GREAT choice for Coach of the Year! One of the main things I like about Ballard is that he’s Coach Calm-Cool-and-Collected. His whole demeanor just reminds me of the saying “Slow and steady wins the race”. (Before you Camden folks get your panties in a wad, I know you won! It’s just a freakin’ saying for crying out loud.)

One player I would have liked to have seen added to your list(s) was OL Trevor McBurnett (#77). 6’4” (he may be 6’5” by now), 295 lbs and talented. If he doesn’t have some Div I schools after him next year I will be VERY surprised!

By columbia Blue

December 30, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

To Vincent

CAMDN COUNTY STATE 5A CHAMPIONS

GET OVER IT!!!!!

By Fo Real

December 30, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

My opinion, is that someone was not paying attention. Who shut Greg Reid down this year? Should count for something considering Greg Reid is player of the year.

By Fo Real

December 30, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

How is it, Grayson can be number three in state, but have no All-Star players

By slalom1

December 30, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

TODD HOLCOMB, Nothing could make me happier than to see Qua Huzzie get the recognition that he has earned. When I say “earned”, I am referring not only to his tremendous athletic ability,(as shown in the North-South All star game), but his prowess in the classroom as well. In all my years of following LaGrange football, I have never seen a more complete human being both on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. He exemplifies the kind of role model that kids today need. The University of Kentucky landed their BIGGEST recruit of the year and the AJC made quite possibly their best selection of the year. Congrats to all.

By I Vote for Yo and Brookwood Mom

December 30, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

I vote for Yo and Brookwood Mom. Yo for back-up quarterback on a six-man team and Brookwood Mom as kicker since she likes soccer.

By Tarrence

December 30, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

All Star N vs S game- offenses lacked rythm which is not unusual with only 3 days to try to come togehter, but I was real impressed with the effort of all these young men. Reid was a stand-out, defense for south was incredible. There were several linemen for the south that were quite worthy to be there, the center was quick off the ball and blocked well, it took the rest of the line a while, but finally they opened up a few holes in the 2nd half. For north the quarterback threw well but south defense came through every time. I certainly think all of these young men who played in this game should be on the All State Team!!

By david kidd

December 30, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

individual honors are great! and that fine. but….. the camden blue cats had only one first team all-state player, from the defensive side. TEAMS win state, not individual stars! who will remember 10 years from now who was the player of the year in AAAAA? all camden fans will remember who went dome to dome in 08. that being said, congrats to greg reid and all the other and to all the players in the state and thanks for a great season!

By 3653

December 30, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

No Desmond Walker (Mays), Kowaski Kitchens (Banneker), Demtruce McNeal (Banneker) No players from Whitewater or Vila Rica even make honorable mention All State in AAAA… That is shocking to me…

By FootballFan

December 30, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

Drexel “DJ” “Riverdale” Copeland is a phenomenal young man. He is a great athelete and a humble young man. He has the talent and focus it takes on the field and the calm demeanor off the field to be a great success. He will be one to watch throughout his collegiate and professional career unfolds. Congratulations DJ!

By RAMFAN

December 31, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

Todd,

I want to commend you on selecting Meshack Williams as the AAA DE selection. He set our school record at 23 sacks. I wish there were records kept for the state. Could this be a state record. Just out of Curiosity was Meshack considered for the Defensive Player of the year in AAA?

By bodog

December 31, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

TODD…….THE CAIRO QB SHOULD HAVE BEEN OFFENSIVE PLAYER…ALL-CLASSIFICATION….HE HAS PROVEN HIMSELF TO ALMOST EVERTONE THAT KNOWS AAA….HE IS THE REAL DEAL……EVERYTHING IS FINE WITH ME…..HAVE A GREAT 2009, AND LET’S DO THIS AGAIN……..HAPPY NEW YEAR….

By MacDaddy

December 31, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Where can we find the AP All State team? i didnt see it in the paper, is there a link?

Thanks

By Todd Holcomb

December 31, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

* I agree that this list is always Atlanta heavy. There are some good players in the south that don’t get the recognition they deserve.*

In an earlier post, I explained that teams from Macon/Columbus and below are represented almost exactly proportionate to the number of schools in that part of the state – about 40 percent.

My only issue is not putting Van Calhoun of Rome on AAAA first team.

I’m glad we got him as HM, at least. I don’t think he showed up at all on the GSWA team at all. Behind Jonathan Davis (Tucker) and Julian Burnett (Westside), who I felt were locks, I think Calhoun was as good as any. His coach told me Calhoun was the best defensive player he’s ever coached at Rome. Just fwi, the other two LB we chose were Stone Mountain’s Robert Nelson (4-year starter, 2-time leading tackler in DeKalb County, probably will sign w/ South Carolina), and Apalachee’s Chaun Gresham, who has committed to South Carolina and had over 300 tackles in his career, averaging about 11 per game this season.

I was surprised Coffe’s Wideout Demario Bennett didn’t make your AAAAA honorable mention and Camdens Deangelo Smith did,not taking away from Smith,But Bennett has more speed ,better hands and overall ten times the athlete

Bennett probably deserved HM, either from the AJC or the GSWA. I hope he makes the coaches’ team. The choice of Smith was largely about the idea that Camden deserved another player, and he’s a D-1 recruit who made two long TD catches that one might argue were the difference in the Northside and P-Ridge games. Without Smith, Camden might not win state. But I’d have to concede that Bennett probably deserved to make HM in one or the other All State team.

AA maybe the pk should have been Danie Villafuerte from Buford—he did a great job every week—he was the best kicker I saw this year !!Cannada from Dublin was good but not as good as Villafuerte

Villafuerte was great, definitely the strongest leg, and although we’re just talking about Class AA kicker, I think this was one of the handful of most difficult choices in any classification to make. To be honest, if Villafuerte hadn’t made the GSWA’s first team, he probably would’ve made ours. But a kicker who had made 21 of 23 FG in his career (Cannada) probably needs to make at least one All State team.

* Okay Todd, here is a good one to keep things going. PLease pick and all classification team.*

I might do that. Good idea. For years, the Associated Press picked an all-class team and nothing else. Starting around 2000, the AP expanded it to one per class and scrapped the all-class thing.

Granted I do not follow HS football in depth. Hutson Msson and his stats got my attention. Is He a senior? If so what schools are trying to recruit him?

He’s a junior. Lots of schools have inquired, but to my knowledge, he hasn’t visited or received any offers. But that will change quickly in the next few months.

what tangibles do these players get from being on any of these teams. I know with the county awards they usually get a trophy.

No tangibles. When they get to college, it’s a nice thing to have in their bio for the media guide.

I’m not sure about SWD DE Allen Stripling. He wasn’t a dominant force. He has the tools though

Stripling was a curious case because he wasn’t even first-team All Region. The DL choices for Class AAAA were full of contradictions like that. There were a few guys who were big-name recruits that weren’t considered the best DL in their region or even on their own team according to the all-region teams and sometimes their own coaches. We didn’t know how to treat those guys. Jerico Brown and Khory Threatt emerged as the consensus top two. For the rest, it was like a lottery, and Stripling won. He actually made first team with both AJC and GSWA. He had great stats – 14 sacks, 18 other tackles for losses – and he played for an outstanding defense on a team that made a run in the playoffs. But the biggest thing for me was that he had the strong endorsement of his coach, who called him ‘’the defensive leader’’ of his team. Stripling figures to be a major force as a senior, as he’s got an offer from Kentucky already. Let’s just say he was in the right place at the right time this season.

List looks fine, and dead on with POY Greg Reid. No doubt he is the best player in Georgia. That kid is awesome!

We were very torn in the POY choice. We can very close to picking Jonathan Davis. I was glad to see Reid stand out in the North-South game. Made us look good.

I would like to add that you got it right with the lineman you are talking about from class A. I am an opposing coach and the Nelson kid from Taylor is a beast. The only thing you missed was his size. You must have pulled those from his freshman year because that kid is much bigger than 5”9 and 210. I would say at least 6”0 and 250.

Thanks for that confirmation, and sorry about the weight. Not sure where we got that. I’ll look into it.

* Todd - How can you not give the Coach of the Year to Coach Parker at Chapel Hill? No one had more of a turnaround this year.*

There’s no good answer for that. As I said, there are about five choices for coach of the year in AAAAA, and it just depends on how you look at it. Parker would’ve been an excellent choice.

* NOT TALKING ABOUT JARVIS JONES, TALKING ABOUT FURR, BUT WE KNOW THE DEAL DOWN HERE CHASE MISSED ON THE GSWA, AND THE AP. HAD TO MAKE IT UP SOME HOW SINCE HE’S GOING TO GEORGIA HMMM!*

The GSWA and the AP are the same thing. I’m pretty confident that Chase will be first team on the coaches’ All State team that comes out in a couple of months now that Chase was named the South’s MVP in the GACA All-Star game Monday.

* In class 4a how can statesboro not have anyone make the team or even get a mentions yet north clayton has three. Was there no one on statesboro’s team good at all.*

None of Statesboro’s players had the stats or reputation to stand out. Six Statesboro players made all-region, but none got the big awards like MVP or offensive/defensive player of the year. Statesboro has two excellent running backs, but that’s the hardest position to make All State. They’d have to rush for 1,500 yards to have a shot. None are big recruits that would make us give them a second look. That can happen with good teams. Consider that Marist, the AAAA runner-up, had only one player selected.

By Todd Holcomb

December 31, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

Where can we find the AP All State team? i didnt see it in the paper, is there a link?

Try this one from the Athens Banner-Herald:

http://onlineathens.com/stories/122608/pre_371145761.shtml

* I agree that this list is always Atlanta heavy. There are some good players in the south that don’t get the recognition they deserve.*

In an earlier post, I pointed out that teams from Macon/Columbus and below are represented almost exactly proportionate to the number of schools in that part of the state – about 40 percent.

However, Metro Atlanta does have more than its share – about 40 percent to an expected 36 percent. (Looks like the state breaks into 40 percent metro, 40 percent mid-Georgia & south Georgia and 20 percent North Georgia/non metro.)

If you don’t include Region 6-AA, everything evens out. That’s the region with Buford, which had six players selected, the most of any school. Otherwise, metro Atlanta is represented the same as the rest of Georgia.

In the Class A Selection - I like everything, except the way you spelled Groce-(Grace)

I hope that’s the only one we misspelled. It’s harder than you might think to get those correct because sometimes the coaches misspell a player they nominate, although that was not the case here. Coach McElhaney got it right, and I typed it wrong while transferring from his email to my master list.

The AJC and AP teams soon will be posted on the www.ghsfha.com site for eternity, and Groce will be listed correctly there.

How is it, Grayson can be number three in state, but have no All-Star players

Good coaching?

Grayson has plenty of ‘’all-star’’ players, but “All State” is the top 1-2 percent of starters in the highest classification. It’s a bit like a college team that wins a major conference but doesn’t have a first-round pick in the NFL. It happens.

Pemberton finished a close third at RB. Champaign made the GSWA first-team and probably should’ve been HM for our team.

No Desmond Walker (Mays), Kowaski Kitchens (Banneker), Demtruce McNeal (Banneker) No players from Whitewater or Vila Rica even make honorable mention All State in AAAA… That is shocking to me.

Walker didn’t have enough rushing yards to be considered. Banneker had two first-team All State guys. If you’re the #3 and #4 players on your team, and you didn’t make the playoffs, it’s not likely you’re going to make All State. I didn’t get any strong recommendations for any players at Whitewater or Villa Rica. Hope we didn’t miss somebody.

I want to commend you on selecting Meshack Williams as the AAA DE selection. He set our school record at 23 sacks. I wish there were records kept for the state. Could this be a state record. Just out of Curiosity was Meshack considered for the Defensive Player of the year in AAA?

No records kept on that, but for 10 games, that would have to be close to the top. Meshack didn’t get serious consideration for defensive player of the year partly because his team didn’t go far. I was trying find his all-region team to see if he was the DPOY. I’d be curious to know. I think I have it around here some place.

By HATORADER

December 31, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

WELL TODD , CHASE WAS PLAYING AGAINST SOME THE BEST IN GEORGIA, CHRIS HUBBARD AND LE RON FURR FROM G.W. CARVER COLUMBUS ARE PLAYING AGAINST SOME OF THE BEST IN THE COUNTRY AT THE O-D ALL AMERICAN GAME IN MYRTLE BEACH. BUT I GUESS HIM WINNING MVP IN A VERY BORING GAME VALIDATES THE PICK, BY THE WAY MITCHELL - THORNTON OUT BALLED HIM IN THIS GAME!

By drock08

December 31, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

Jamal Ransby #10 for Newnan. Ask anyone who played Newnan how good is #10. Jamal picked off 7 passes and avg over 20 yard per punt returns for the Cougars. Also no disrespect for the All-State running backs but #24 Pemberton from Grayson #30 Wynn from Newnan and Xavier Bacon from NSWR are more deserving IMO. Bacon was a one man offensive show for NSWR whoever gets him and Wynn from Newnan are getting a steal. Also I think Tay Willis RB from E.Coweta should have gotten some recognition as well.

By Gamer

December 31, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Todd, Each year a discussion occurs between teams from south, central, and north ga concerning who is best, plays the toughest schedule etc. For once, please tell us where the line begins to determine each region of the state— going from east to west. Personally, I the north as Griffin and above, central down to just north of Albany and the south the rest. However, if you want to identify a “true” north the lines would be different.

By Titletown King

January 1, 2009 12:52 PM | Link to this

HOW ABOUT AN ALL CLASS ALL-STATE TEAM…

THE BEST IN THE STATE, FOR ALL THE POSITIONS, ALL THE TEAMS….

THIS WOULD BE INTERESTING

By Titletown King

January 1, 2009 1:45 PM | Link to this

OL: Johnnie Farms, Perry OL: Antonio Foster, Valdosta OL: Chris Burnette, Troup OL: Andre Harris, Lovejoy OL: Ray Beno, Newnan BEAST: Branden Smith, Washington QB: Angelo Pease, Cairo RB: Washaun Ealey, ECI RB: P.J. Greene, Rome WR: Jamal Patterson, Henry County WR: Danny Madison, Westside Macon TE: Philip Lutzenkirchen, Lassiter

DL: Meshack Williams, Worth County DL: Abry Jones, Northside-Warner Robins DL: Dallas Lee, Buford DL: Derrick Lott, North Cobb LB: Jarvis Jones, Carver-Columbus LB: Julian Burnett, Westside Macon LB: Mike Gilliard, Valdosta LB: Kevin Minter, Peachtree Ridge DB: Darren Myles Jr., Carver-Atlanta DB: Mike Green, Camden County DB: Roderick Sweeting, Luella DB: Jemea Thomas, Fitzgerald MONSTER: Jonathan Davis, Tucker

MR. MAKE IT HAPPEN- Greg Reid, Lowndes

By Devil Lover

January 1, 2009 4:36 PM | Link to this

IT IS TIME FOR …..!!! bBAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By camdenwildcat

January 1, 2009 6:39 PM | Link to this

Camden is the 5AAAAA CHAMPS. We are never going to get the respect we deserve, I guess we’ll just keep winning State Champioships. If it was Parkview, or brookwood the team would be loaded with players from that team. Reeze you are such a hater.

By Todd Holcomb

January 2, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

Camden is the 5AAAAA CHAMPS. We are never going to get the respect we deserve, I guess we’ll just keep winning State Champioships. If it was Parkview, or brookwood the team would be loaded with players from that team.

In 2000, Parkview won the first of three state titles and had only one first-team All State player along w/ two HM’s. This year, Camden has one and three - four total.

A year ago, Georgia finished No. 2 in the nation and had only one first-team All SEC player.

Sometimes, that’s just the way it is.

By Todd Holcomb

January 2, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

All-Class All State (unofficial):

QB Michael Tamburo

RB Washaun Ealey

RB Toney WIlliams

WR Michael Bowman

WR Jamal Patterson

TE Philip Lutzenkirchen

OL Johnnie Farms

OL Chris Burnette

OL Kellen Williams

OL Ray Beno

OL Andre Harris

DL Dallas Lee

DL Izaan Cross

DL Derrick Lott

DL Abry Jones

LB Qua Huzzie (or Jarvis Jones if healthy)

LB Jonathan Davis

LB Nigel Mitchell-Thornton

DB Rashard Smith

DB Jemea Thomas

DB Branden Smith

DB Greg Reid

PK Eric Osteen

P Chris Ward

KR Branden Smith

PR Greg Reid

By What Are We Doing Wrong?

January 2, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

Apparently All-State in GA is about as important as a peck of peaches. Watching the bowl games played to date I picked-up on how many of the winning teams had quarterbacks which played high school football in Texas. Doing a little research on the games played thru last night I found that Missouri, TCU, Houston, Kansas, Rice,and, as we all know, Georgia were all lead by Texas groomed QBs. Some of the other bowl winners had non-Texan starters but their #2 QB was from Texas. Texas and Texas Tech are yet to play which could add two more. Not certain why GA can’t regularly produce major college QB talent. What are we not doing compared to Texas? Surely we have equal talent so it must be the way the boys are coached thru the different football programs. Maybe our high school coaches need to spend some time about 800 miles west of here to find out and get us on the national QB map.

By Kasper

January 2, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

The 2008 All-State Players have been selected and posted, OFFICIALLY. It’s over let’s move on. This All-Class All-State list is just what it says,UNOFFICIAL. HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL IS OVER!!!!!!!!! STOP WHINING!!!!!!!!!!!!

It’s 2009, let’s finish basketball and get ready for baseball.

By walker

January 2, 2009 3:45 PM | Link to this

no picks out of McNair Highschool why;

By Devil Lover

January 2, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this

**Hey goof ball,”What Are We Doing Wrong”, you are talking about apples and oranges n terms of total populations. In 2004 TX had 23.5M population while GA had 9.3M.

I think that there is a better measurement what - the ratio of NFL players per population.

Since 1988 592 NFL players has come from TX while 293 have come from GA. Therefore TX is producing 1 player per 39,696 while little old GA is producing 1 player per 31,741. How about that fact?

Now, What Are We Doing Wrong, I think even you are smart enough to tell that GA is doing a pretty good job on producing professional football players.

Hey goof ball, why don’t you go back to TX!!!!**

By Dearest Devil Lover

January 2, 2009 6:06 PM | Link to this

Devil Lover…go back to Texas? Not sure what you’re talking about?? You, a high school football fan lacking normal intelligence, apparently realize how Texas high schools produce major college quarterback talent. By the way, you can add Ole Miss to the list of bowl winners quarterbacked by previous Texas high school players.

By To Devil Lover Goof Ball

January 2, 2009 6:09 PM | Link to this

Devil Lover, do we detect a little jealousy from you?

By Forgot One Devil Lover

January 2, 2009 10:00 PM | Link to this

Forgot one. Another previous Texas high school groomed quarterback which leads a bowl team; Utah Utes, Brian Johnson, Robert E. Lee High School Baytown, TX.

By cooper 2

January 2, 2009 10:16 PM | Link to this

Todd as for the AAA Punter of the year your boy from Lagrange was out kicked by a sophmore from Flowery Branch, Will Monday. First he missed an easy FG then did not punt the ball over 40 yards. Monday hit 2 over 40 plus dropped one on th 2 yardline. FB comtroled the field position with their kicking game. In the State Championship Game Monday punted one 52 yards. Keep his name in your mind next year. He will be punting on Saturdays in a few years

By One More Time for Devil Lover

January 2, 2009 10:59 PM | Link to this

Oh, by the way Devil Lover, the 2008 offensive high school player of the year is Garrett Gilbert, a QUARTERBACK from Lake Travis (Austin, TX). Maybe UGA will try to get him to replace their departing Texas high school QB.

By eagleman

January 3, 2009 12:44 AM | Link to this

There’s too much whining going on. Todd is in an awkward position along with the other sportswriters. They don’t get to see all of the 300+ teams in Georgia each football season. They do the best with what they have. Unlike most of you who post on here, sportswriters generally don’t have a bias when it comes to picking all-state teams. They’ll put the best players on there. They are not thinking of ways to screw a high school over. If you can make an argument on why a certain kid doesn’t deserve to be on the team, then let’s here it. But, I’m guessing most of you have never watched most of the other kids play, you’ve only seen players on your team, so you’re naturally biased.

Wouldn’t you love it if someone was looking over your shoulder at work and second-guessing every decision you make? Because, my guess is, that happens to a lot of sports writers. Someone will always be angry with something they do. You can’t always make everyone happy.

By cleonard

January 3, 2009 8:18 AM | Link to this

Todd how many players from GA went to the army combine in SAN ANTOINIO? And do you know how Rajion Neal did out there from Sandy Creek.I was told only 500 jrs got invited througout the nation.

By One More Time For Goof Ball

January 3, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

SINCE YOU THINK GA COACHING IS SUB PAR TO TEXAS GOOF BALL THEN WHY SINCE 1968 HAS LITTLE OLD GEORGIA HAD 8 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS TO TX’S 10 WHILE TX HAS 2 1/2 TIMES THE POPULATION AND HAS ALL OF THOSE GREAT QUARTERBACKS?? WHY GOOF BALL?? WHY GOOF BALL?? I KNOW WHY…BECAUSE YOU ARE STUPID!!! GO BACK TO TX REDNECK.

By Funny Comment

January 3, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this

That is really funny Goof Ball Lover. Your assumption that I’m from Texas is incorrect, sorry. I’m just someone that can see the facts and not afraid to admit we are behind in the talent category. But what is REALLY, REALLY, REALLY funny is that anyone from Georgia would be calling someone a redneck. Ha, Ha, Ha, you kill me Goof Ball Lover. PS. You need to get professional help with your anger problem.

By SoungGuy Camden

January 3, 2009 10:33 AM | Link to this

Todd, About everytime I read your commemts, I am in total agreement with you, however I will share with you that Seimer, Williams, Baker and Smith were in big games the last two years. The Final 4 last year and State Championship this year. Now you tell everyone we have good players, bvut not the best players in the state. Where was Lowndes and Warner Robins at this year? Jeff Herron did something that no other coach has done this year in 5AAAAA.

Camden will reload next year with an awesome group of players that Todd would call a good players. We can handle it and we are used to it!

By Raiders

January 3, 2009 12:32 PM | Link to this

I have to ask, being a Walton fan who watched most of the game this season, how did Price Garrett make the team? Granted, he’s a good player, but I didn’t think he was a first team All-State Player

By I Understand now

January 3, 2009 8:57 PM | Link to this

All Camden needs to do is uproot itself, find a plot of land in Atlanta and proclaim itself a north Georgia school. At that time, it will be the hottest thing in Georgia since boiling water. Now all we need is a moving truck. Hey Todd, can you help. Just help a team out!!!

By Devil Lover

January 3, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Todd, football has been over for several weeks in this state and it is time to move on to basketball. Tonight we have the number 14th team in the nation by USAToday playing the number one 5A team in the state and I don’t see any reporting by AJC. Let move on football is dead now that the Falcon lost.

By RealisticEP_Fan

January 4, 2009 3:40 AM | Link to this

For Todd Holcomb:

Have you seen all of the players on your list of all class all state roster, play? Just curious about what you based it on, considering you are a journalist and that people will tend to quote you as an authoratative source in the future. I respect different opinions to the upmost but as a jounalist I belive you have an obligation to be objective in your views and be able to explain the grounding for you thoughts.

Respectfully, Thank you.

By Todd Holcomb

January 4, 2009 11:58 PM | Link to this

EP Fan:

Not sure what percent of the players I’ve seen, but certainly not all. Perhaps not even most. I’d have to count. I also don’t like to put too much stock into seeing a guy in person. It’s just one game. I remember two years ago watching Heyward, the Peachtree Ridge nose tackle, and thinking he was the fastest, most un-blockable DT I’d ever seen, making tackles any place on the field. The next time I saw him, he was double-teamed and schemed out of the game. He was no factor. So if it’s all about seeing him in person, Seeing a guy is just one small and often unnecessary piece of the puzzle.

Here’s what we take into consideration when picking the team:

• The recommendation of head coaches. Every coach in Georgia was contacted and asked to recommend players. There also was a fair amount of correspondence with those coaches about not only their players, but those they’d seen, tapping their brains. There are some guys who would’ve made All State on reputation but didn’t due to lack of their own coach’s recommendation.

• The recommendation and opinions of sportswriters around the state. I looked at all the info gathered by the GSWA and actually voted on that team. It’s impossible to have first-hand knowledge about everyone in the state, but if you’re a writer who covers Cobb County, or Region 1-AAAAA, you can have a pretty good handle on those 10-20 teams. I trust writers to know who’s phony and who’s legit in their specific area, and I tend to trust that.

• All-area, All-county and All-region teams. I collected as many of those as I could find. I especially like the ones done by coaches. If a guy is defensive player of the year in his region, then he’s probably going to get the nod over a guy from the same position who didn’t.

• Recruiting info, which players have offers, etc… This is not the most important criterion for high school all state, but it is a factor.

• Statistics. We collected a boat load of that. We had stats on any RB/WR/QB who was a legit candidate.

• Opinions of our staff. We covered about 10 games every Friday night, saw lots of games, interviewed coaches multiple times.

From that, I came up with a tentative team, asked our staff to weigh in again, made some changes as a result. When unsure, called some coaches to get their thoughts. Keep massaging it, re-thinking it, debating it.

That’s the gist of it.

All Camden needs to do is uproot itself, find a plot of land in Atlanta and proclaim itself a north Georgia school. At that time, it will be the hottest thing in Georgia since boiling water. Now all we need is a moving truck. Hey Todd, can you help. Just help a team out!!!

I believe your complaints have been addressed pretty well. North Georgia players are not more well-represented than South Georgia players. That’s a myth. The players of the year lean more toward the south, despite the fact that the state champions leaned more toward the north. Only 3 of the 11 are from metro Atlanta.

Buford’s head coach was bypassed for coach of the year when we chose a South Georgia coach instead. Maybe Buford should move its campus to Brooks County for respect. But when Camden’s coach that isn’t selected, then it’s AJC bias. We can’t win.

By PMac

January 5, 2009 6:28 AM | Link to this

Where can one see a copy of the AP All State teams? Would like to see those selections too. Thanks

By Todd Holcomb

January 5, 2009 9:14 AM | Link to this

Where can one see a copy of the AP All State teams? Would like to see those selections too. Thanks

http://onlineathens.com/stories/122608/pre_371145761.shtml

By R.D.Smith

January 5, 2009 9:49 AM | Link to this

COL,GA Is over look take John Drew GREAT stats for a D- lineman.His stats 73 Tackles 8 sacks 12 TFL 3 cause fumbles.In only 8 games. Jarvis Jones 77 Tackles 4 INT, NO sacks 4 cause fumbles but one makes it and the other makes Honorable-mention. This is a joke something needs to be done kids making it that shuoldnt and other being kids not making it that should.Not saying jones shouldnt be on the but Drew should.

By Todd Holcomb

January 5, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

re: John Drew.

Great player. But you’re comparing his stats to a LB. Malcolm Mitchell of Dunwoody had better stats than Drew, and he didn’t make first team, either. Each of the four guys we chose at DL had more sacks and TFL than Drew except Irwin, who had more endorsements from coaches in West Georgia among those I spoke with.

Also, the fact that Drew did this ”in only 8 games” is not an asset, but a liability. I don’t think anybody made All State playing just 8 games.

By topper

January 5, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

anybody see greg reid in the underarmor all america game? This kid is for real!!!! wow what a stud!!!!

By Basketball

January 5, 2009 4:05 PM | Link to this

Now, I’m a football fan just like everyone else, but enough is enough. Todd, why are you ignoring the posts where people are asking about the lack of basketball coverage? People are wanting to know what’s the problem with the AJC’s coverage or lack of coverage for high school basketball. I mean, seriously, by the time you guys decide to write an article, it will be the championship game and none of us will know what even led up to it.

Football season is over, but yet, there are still new articles going up on this website. GET IT TOGETHER AJC! And I repeat, FOOTBALL IS OVER. IT’S BASKETBALL SEASON NOW!

By jhenry

January 5, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this

Your choice for Georgia All-Classification Player of the Year was an excellent one. Greg Reid not only proved himself worthy all year, but he also was named the Player of the Game in the Georgia North-South Allstar game on December 29th in Columbus, GA, and again last night, he was named the Player of the Game at the ESPN Under Armour All Star Game in Orlando, FL where he competed with and against 81 other players from all over the United States, but yet he managed to shine having a 38 yard punt return and 2 interceptions, one with a return that set up a touchdown. So for anyone who doubted whether he was worthy of Player of the Year for Georgia, you can now see that not only is he worthy when compared to other GA players, but he is also worthy when compared with top players from around the country. Even the NFL Coaches were impressed with his skills and ability.

By Hoops

January 7, 2009 10:33 AM | Link to this

As I look at the calendar it appears that the high school football season is OVER!! There is a lot going on in basketball at all levels and you guys seem to be ignoring it!! What about these kids that are doing good/great things that are going without acknowledgement from you! It’s just not fair.

By SportsFan31313

January 7, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Happy New Year Todd Holcomb and all of the Bloggers,

WOW!!!!! This is a great blog this week. Todd, you may get some heat behind this as far as some players not making the 1st team out of Class AAAAA. But there are a lot of them out there from various classes through out the entire State. But the ole saying goes,” SOMETIMES YOU GET THE BEAR, AND SOMETIME THE BEAR GETS YOU”….. This was meant for some of those great players through out the State Classes that didn’t make it the 1st team, and probably deserved to make it.

By My Boys

January 9, 2009 5:26 PM | Link to this

I disagree, I don’t think Herron should have been selected Coach of the Year. In my opinion he is not a great coach. When they played against us, you could tell his playing calling sucks. He just happen to have a very good team, especially his offensive line. Now I do believe some of those players should have been selected. A good coach would have more players being recruited by ACC and SEC. Look at Stephens from Atlanta. He was a prodigy of Herron, but is a much better Coach. I would have chosen him for Coach of the Year.

We open against Camden next year and they are already making excuses. Because they know we are going to beat the brakes off of them.

By slalom1

January 11, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

2008 has been a remarkable season. Lots of great teams in each classification and lots of upsets in the play-offs. As for the AJC all state teams, I believe that Todd and the gang got it about right. Even more importantly, the AJC high school blog has given all of us the opportunity to discuss, opine, and vent throughout the season. Great entertainment value. Hopefully this blog will continue to prosper throughout the 2009 season. Thanks once again guys, for a job well done.

By Jimmy Williams

January 12, 2009 3:55 PM | Link to this

*By cooper 2

January 2, 2009 10:16 PM | Link to this

Todd as for the AAA Punter of the year your boy from Lagrange was out kicked by a sophmore from Flowery Branch, Will Monday. First he missed an easy FG then did not punt the ball over 40 yards. Monday hit 2 over 40 plus dropped one on th 2 yardline. FB comtroled the field position with their kicking game. In the State Championship Game Monday punted one 52 yards. Keep his name in your mind next year. He will be punting on Saturdays in a few years.*

You pick one game? Let me give you some stats on Joe Mansour. 55 yard field goal made, 78% of his kickoffs went into the end zone, 41.0 yard punting average on 54 punts. These all state teams look at players over a whole season, not just one game.

By Coach Jay Rollerson

January 14, 2009 7:13 AM | Link to this

Jason Wynn Clarkston High ( cornerback)10 interceptions 2008 season