With only three weeks left in the regular season, the region races are starting to take shape. The favorites have been established – in some cases already determined – and the battle for the four state playoff spots is getting hot.
Here is a look at how the playoffs stack up in each region.
Region 1: Warner Robins took a big step toward defending its title last week by beating Thomas County Centrral. But the five-team region isn't likely to have its playoff lineup set until the final week
Region 2: Co-leaders Wayne County, Ware County and New Hampstead still have to play each other. That should decide the top three seeds; Wayne and Ware play in the season finale, if you like drama. Next week's game between South Effingham and Statesboro should determine the fourth seed.
Region 3: It looks like the Oct. 26 game between Starr's Mill and Riverdale could determine first place. Griffin, which lost to Starr's Mill, also has a game remaining with Riverdale. Jonesboro, a newcomer to the league, is in line to take the fourth playoff spot.
Region 4: Stockbridge meets Dutchtown in an important game on Friday, with the winner taking the lead on the path to first place. Dutchtown has already beaten Jones County, a team that Stockbridge has yet to play. Those three teams are all contenders to make a deep playoff run. Throw a hat over the others to determine the final spot.
Region 5: No one has beaten Southwest DeKalb and the Panthers are the favorite. However, the Panthers still have games with Lithonia (and its tough defense) and reigning region champion Arabia Mountain. Those three teams appear to be the class of the region. The winner of this week's game between Miller Grove and Columbia could be in line for the final spot.
Region 6: Banneker will take a huge step forward if it can beat Carver this week. The Trojans have already taken down Jackson and Riverwood. Carver and Riverwood are the other two most likely playoff contenders, with Jackson and Decatur likely determining the No. 4 seed when they play on Oc. 26.
Region 7: Rome will be the No. 1 team. The Wolves have already beaten the three major contenders. Kell, Carrollton and East Paulding all have victories over each other, which could make for an interesting scenario barring any upsets.
Region 8: Buford has won its three region games by a total of 141 points. Any questions? Cedar Shoals should be the No. 2 seed, based on its win over Clarke Central. This week's game between Clarke and Johnson should decide No. 3 and No. 4.
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