Robert's High School Picks - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

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AAAAAA
North Gwinnett defeats Lovejoy
Mill Creek  def North Cobb
Camden Co. defeats Norcross
Colquitt Co. defeats Parkview

AAAAA
Northside defeats Tucker
Stephenson defeats Ware Co.
Gainesville defeats Harris Co.
Whitewater defeats Allatoona

AAAA
Monroe Area defeats South Effingham
Sandy Creek defeats Burke Co.
Ridgeland defeats Mary Persons
Marist defeats Stockbridge

AAA
Carver Columbus defeats Buford
Cartersville defeats Thomson
Peach Co. defeats North Hall
Washington Co. defeats St. Pius

AA
GACS defeats Early Co.
Fitzgerald defeats Jefferson
Calhoun defeats Brooks Co.
Lovett defeats Lamar Co.

A Public
Lincoln Co. defeats Wilkinson Co.
Wilcox Co. defeats Marion Co.
ECI defeats Trion
Seminole Co. defeats Dooly Co.

A Private
Athens Academy defeats Prince Avenue
Landmark defeats FPD
ELCA defeats Savannah Christian
Walker defeats George Walton

GISA
Deerfield-Windsor defeats Heritage
Valwood defeats Westwood
Frederica defeats Robert Toombs

Not the greatest of playoff starts with 19-9 record for 1-AAA teams. The GISA AA playoffs are my Achilles heels.   It is second round time and we will stick to South Georgia teams.

Colquitt Co. at Newnan:  Packers road success speaks for itself in the playoffs but this will be a close win.   Colquitt Co.   35-31

Thomas Co. Central at Northside W.R.:  The Jackets looked like Dome material in October but the last two weeks has many fans wondering what has happened to this team.   The Eagles are always tough at home   Northside   35-20

South Effingham at Westover:   The Patriots are back at home against a South Effingham team that loves to run the football.  Westover is playing with confidence at home and that will be the difference..  Westover 22-20

Monroe at Burke Co.:  The Tornadoes are also playing with confidence on the road but are playing at team that won a state title last year.  Burke Co.  27-22

Mary Persons at Cairo:  These two teams are very similar when it comes to great defense and just enough offense.. Cairo  20-13

McIntosh Co. at Brooks Co.:  The #2 Trojans got by Macon County by the skin of their teeth last week when QB Malcolm Parrish suffered an ankle injury.    Parrish and the Trojans better beat ready for an always tough Bucs team... Brooks Co.  30-16

Fitzgerald at Vidalia:  The Canes are on the road at Vidalia at one of the best 2nd round matchups in the state.   Vidalia is undefeated but Fitzgerald has played better competition...Fitzgerald  27-19

Greenville at Wilcox Co.:  the #2 seeded Patriots need to jump on the Patriots from Greenville very early..Wilcox Co.  38-16

Commerce at Seminole Co.:   The #4 Indians face a big challenge against a Commerce team that has always been on the top in Class A.....Seminole Co.  29-25

Trion at Irwin Co.:   The Indians are the sleeper team to watch in this bracket.   They are playing well and with confidence... Irwin Co.   28-13

Wilkinson Co. at Miller Co.:  A battle of #8 vs #9 teams and I just don't know if the Pirates can handle the athleticism Wilco will bring to Colquitt... Wilco  34-24

Turner Co. at Dooly Co.:   This is the best matchup in the public school pairings.   Dooly may be a much higher seed but Turner County has played in a better region and has faced a tougher schedule.... I smell upset..Turner Co.  22-18

Charlton Co. at Marion Co.:   The Indians got into the playoffs because of a non-region game against a Florida school but are still from a region 2 that I respect.  However, the Indians youth has shown and I think that will be the difference...Marion 14-6

Stratford at Deerfield-Windsor:    Knights may have won the regular season meeting but they still don't believe last year's semifinal loss to the Eagles has been settled.. Deerfield-Windsor 28-21

Valwood at John Milledge:   Valiants speed against John Milledge's depth.  I am going with speed...Valwood  21-14

Brentwood at Westwood:  Give the Wildcats credit.  Beating Edmund Burke in the playoffs is never easy.  Brentwood is another solid GISA program and this is going to be a tough battle for the Cats...Westwood  22-16

Other games of interest

Camden Co. defeats  East Coweta
Early Co.     defeats    Screven Co.
Ware Co. defeats Union Grove
Peach Co. defeats Pierce Co. 

 

A poor showing with a 21-6 record in the final week of the regular season.  The playoffs are here and it is time to buckle down.

AAAAAA:   I think Camden, Lowndes and Valdosta will all advance but Colquitt County has me concerned. Packers are used to going on the road but are coming off an emotional victory.

Here go  Camden Co defeats Hillgrove, Lowndes defeats Marietta, Valdosta defeats North Cobb and Colquitt County defeats McEachern.

AAAAA:   Thomas County Central has got to recover from last week's stunning loss to Harris County.  Back in AAAA, region 1 struggled in the playoffs and the Jackets loss last week has me concerned about their chances. I think Lee County's offense can give a very good Whitewater defense some problems but I don't know if they can come home with a win.

Northgate defeats Harris Co.,  TC Central defeats Creekside, Union Grove defeats Bainbridge,  Whitewater defeats Lee Co. 

AAAA:   Cairo defeats Riverdale,  Westover defeats Jonesboro, Griffin defeats Monroe, Stockbridge defeats Worth Co.

AAA:  Pierce Co. defeats Central Carrollton, Rockmart defeats Appling Co., Chapel Hill defeats Johnson Savannah, Callaway defeats Tattnall County.

AA:   Brooks Co. defeats Macon Co, Fitzgerald defeats NE Macon, Early Co. defeats Bleckley Co., Cook defeats Lamar Co.

GISA AAA:  Deerfield-Windsor defeats Tattnall Square, Stratford defeats Bulloch, Heritage defeats Pinewood Christian, Westfield defeats Trinity Christian Sharpsburg

GISA AA:  Valwood defeats Trinity-Dublin, Edmund Burke defeats Westwood, Memorial Day defeats John Milledge, Gatewood defeats Brentwood

GISA A:   Thomas Jefferson defeats Randoph-Southern, Robert Toombs defeats Curtis Baptist, Frederica defeats David Emanuel, Crisp Academy defeats Dawson Street

 

An even better week with a 25-2 record.   I hope the hot streak will continue through the end of the playoffs.  It is the final week of the regular season and for teams who know there is no next week they are dangerous to play and pick.

Harris Co. at Thomas Co. Central (Locker Room GOW):  The Tigers are on a roll with five straight wins.   Two have come in the last seconds.  This week they are on the road and TCC is rested and waiting.. Thomas Co. Central  28-13

Valdosta at Coffee:   The Wildcats need a win to clinch a playoff berth because if there is a a three way tiebreak it doesn't look good for them.  Coffee is at home but I don't think that will be enough...Valdosta  24-20

Camden Co. at Colquitt Co.:  The #1 Wildcats have clinched the region title and need this win to run the table in the regular season.  Camden should be motivated after recent playoff losses to the Pack but Colquitt needs this game and they definitely know they can beat beat the #1 Cats...Colquitt Co.  31-28

Lee Co. at Bainbridge:  This game is for 3rd place in the region. Everyone knows the Trojans can score points but can they stop the option attack...This is tough one....Lee Co. 38-35

Worth Co. at Monroe:  Rams need to win to clinch a playoff berth while Monroe knows they are already in....Someone needs to cheer for the Cougars in Sylvester....Monroe  27-16

Crisp Co. at Americus-Sumter:  The Panthers need a win and a Worth loss to make the playoffs while the Cougars are playing for next year.  Americus-Sumter has lost four straight and they are injured...I think they will be a little bit motivated after last week's Dougherty loss..Americus-Sumter 18-14

Westover vs Albany (Saturday):  These two rivals meet in what is really a playoff game for the Indians who would love nothing better than to go into an offseason with a win over the Patriots...Westover 26-22

Cook at Early Co.:  The battle for third in region 1-AA.  I know the Bobcats are at home but Cook has a very good defense which I think can squeak out the road victory..Cook 19-15

Seminole Co. at Mitchell Co.:  The Indians need this win for 2 reasons.  One clinches the region championship and two it could move them up to get a home game in the first round of the playoffs next week.  A Seminole loss and then you pray you don't fall out of the power rankings...Seminole  25-18

Telfair Co. at Wilcox Co.:   Patriots claim the region title with a win but the Trojans are a very good team...Wilcox  27-22

Clinch Co. at Turner Co.:  Maybe the biggest game in Class A when you look where these teams are in the power rankings.   Also puzzling because both teams have had their ups and downs.  I am going with the Rebels...Turner Co.   16-12

Irwin Co. at Charlton Co.:    This is a big game in terms of power rankings because the loser may drop down in the rankings and open on the road next week in the playoffs.  It has been a very good season for Irwin and I have been on the bandwagon but Charlton is coming off a loss where they didn't play well.  That doesn't happen too often in Folkston..Charlton 34-28

Deerfield-Windsor at Southland: Knights finish up on the road against a Southland team that is playing for pride... DWS  35-21

Randolph-Southern at Crisp Academy:  This game is for playoff seeding in Class A.  I like the Wildcats at home..Crisp  22-20

Brunswick defeats Tift Co.
Brooks Co. defeats Berrien
Thomaville defeats Pelham
Terrell Co. defeats Randolph-Clay
Calhoun Co. defeats Stewart Co.
Dooly Co. defeats Schley Co.
Marion Co. defeats Central Talbotton
Westfield defeats Tiftarea
Fullington defeats FPCA
John Milledge defeats Brookwood
Valwood defeats Central Fellowship
Westwood defeats Briarwood(Saturday)
Gatewood defeats Southwest Georgia

 

A great week with a 27-3 record.   Need to stay hot because this is showdown Friday.

Americus-Sumter at Dougherty (Thursday):  The Trojans came so close to upsetting Westover but the lack of the depth caught them.  Unfortunately they catch a Panthers team wanting to snap a two game losing streak.. Americus-Sumter 27-19

Camden Co. at Lowndes:  The long awaited showdown between the #1 Wildcats and #4 Vikings for the 1-AAAAAA title.   Lowndes is at home but has some injury issues.  The Wildcats are healthy...Camden  17-7

Coffee at Colquitt Co.:  A Packers loss knocks them out of the playoffs while Coffee still has a game with Valdosta next week.  Colquitt County's fourth quarter comeback I believe carries over this week..Colquitt Co.   35-28

Valdosta at Brunswick:   The Cats have struggled when they head to the Coast and coming off their Packers win this could be a close call...VHS  38-28

Northside Columbus at Lee Co.:  Trojans are back at home looking to snap a two game losing streak... Lee  56-21

Cairo at Monroe (Locker Room game of the week):  The Tornadoes have been point to this game all season.   A Tornadoes win could leave the region title to a tiebreaker next week.  Monroe has the balanced offense but Cairo has the big defense and can play in big games... Cairo 14-13

Westover at Worth Co:   The Patriots survived a close call last week against Dougherty and better show up ready to play in Sylvester.  The Rams would love to spoil the Patriots region championship hopes... Westover  27-18

Thomasville at Fitzgerald:  The Canes can wrap up the #2 seed in the region while the Bulldogs need a win and some help for their playoff hopes... Fitzgerald  21-7

Miller Co. at Seminole Co.:   This annual border war is big for both teams.  Pirates clinch the region while Seminole needs a win to get into the playoff picture in the power rankings...Seminole  26-22

Wilcox Co. at Irwin Co.:  The Indians face a tough finish in their bid to win the region title.  This is another game of the week candidate but I like the Patriots passing offense..Wilcox 34-30

Greenville at Dooly Co:    The Bobcats are back in the 4-A title race thanks to Brookstone's last week. The Patriots are tough team so this is a big game in this region..Dooly 15-12

Valwood at SGA:  The Valiants have already clinched the region but will still keep head coach Ashley Henderson unbeaten...Valwood  35-15

Westwood at Terrell Academy:   The Wildcats have managed to thrive in AA but the Eagles have not.  This is a big rivalry but I think Westwood will pull out a win.Westwood 39-33

Bainbridge defeats  Dothan
Crisp Co. defeats Albany
Early Co.  defeats  Pelham
Cook defeats  Berrien
Bacon Co. defeats Atkinson Co
Randolph-Clay defeats Calhoun Co.
Terrell Co. defeats  Stewart Co.
Charlton Co. defeats Telfair Co
Clinch Co. defeats Lanier Co.
Schley Co. defeats Pacelli
Deerfield-Windsor defeats Tiftarea
Bulloch defeats Southland
Robert Toombs defeats Crisp Academy
Frederica defeats Fullington
Randolph-Southern defeats  FPCA

 

  A decent week with a 21-8 records with the back end games really hurting me.  It is a busy week so we will cut the chit chat.

Worth Co. at Albany (Thursday):   The Indians still have a shot at the postseason if they can close out the season with three wins and get some help from Dougherty or Worth County against Westover.   The Rams love to run the football and play good defense while Emanuel Byrd is stepping up his game.   Worth Co.  19-14

Colquitt Co. at Valdosta (game of week): This is a must win game for both teams when it comes to the playoffs.  Wildcats really need it since they close out the regular season on the road.  the Packers offense has been had its troubles but has played well lately even though I think that may have had something to do with the opposition... going with the gut... Valdosta 21-14

Lee Co. at Harris Co.:  The Trojans did lose last week to Thomas Co. Central but learned they are pretty good football team...  Lee   42-31

Cairo at Americus-Sumter:   The Syrupmakers are back on the road to face an Americus-Sumter team that has dropped two straight region games.    This should be a defensive battle and if the Panthers make a play they can get the upset...Cairo 21-7

Cook at Brooks Co:  The question is do the Trojans have any more lives left after the amazing comeback wins against Monroe and Fitzgerald.    The Hornets have a very good defense but I am not going against the Hammer...Brooks  24-18

Early Co. at Fitzgerald:  The Bobcats are back on the road after a big home win last week.  Fitzgerald is glad to be back at home.  Canes   36-28

Seminole Co. at Randolph-Clay:   A look at the GHSA Class A power rankings show Region 1 teams need to win out to make the playoffs.   The Indians get off to a good start..Seminole  34-13

Irwin Co. at Turner Co.:   The biggest questions in America are who is going to win the election and what happened to the Rebels?  After a big win over Charlton, Turner has dropped two straight and now the surging Irwin County Indians are coming to Alan Hobby Field.   This is a dangerous game for those of us in the prediction game...Turner Co.  27-25

Clinch Co. at Charlton Co.:  The Panthers are struggling and the last thing you need is a road trip to Folkston for the Swamp Bowl...Charlton  16-12

Valwood at Brookwood:   The unbeaten Valiants head to Thomasville where the Warriors are getting into playoff shape..   Valwood  32-20

Westwood at Southwest Georgia:   The Wildcats are back on the road for another battle with the Warriors in Damascus.  SGA is an improving team but Westwood is still pretty good...Westwood 35-27

Lowndes defeats Tift Co.
Camden Co defeats Brunswick
Bainbridge defeats Northside Columbus
T.C. Central defeats Hardaway (Saturday)
Monroe defeats Crisp Co.
Westover defeats Dougherty
Berrien defeats Pelham
Bryan Co. defeats Atkinson Co.
Mitchell Co. defeats Calhoun Co. (Saturday)
Miller Co. defeats Stewart Co.
Telfair Co. defeats Lanier Co.
Wilcox Co. defeats Swainsboro
Marion  Co. defeats Brookstone
Schley Co. defeats Central Talbotton
Dooly Co. defeats Pacelli
Deerfield-Windsor defeats Pinewood
Southland defeats Tiftarea
Terrell Academy defeats Sherwood Christian
Crisp Academy defeats FPCA
Robert Toombs defeats Fullington

 

 

 

 Another week with just 4 losses to go with 23 wins.   I hope I can keep the hot streak as we start the final month of the regular season.

Thomas Co. Central at Lee Co.:  The Trojans are 6-0 for the first time in school history but their non-region schedule is soft when you compare the teams that Thomas County Central has played.  The Trojans do have balance and a talented QB in Stephen Collier. However, TCC's Adam Choice is also a very special player and the Jackets have too much for the Trojans.. Thomas Co. Central  49-28

Hardaway at Bainbridge:  I didn't have the courage to pick an upset but I did warn you Bainbridge was in trouble last week at Harris County.  Bearcats bounce back this week..Bainbridge 28-7

Westover at Americus-Sumter:  This is a huge game for Westover because a victory at worst gives them #2 in the region and a home playoff game.  Both of these teams like to run the football but I just don't see the Panthers falling at home in consecutive weeks..Americus-Sumter 20-19

Dougherty vs Monroe:  The Tornadoes will keep an eye on what happens in Americus because they need the Panthers to win that game.   Dougherty is winless but they are frankly playing up to the level of their talent and experience which means don't give up Trojan fans better days are coming...Monroe  34-12

Coffee at Lowndes:   This game features two of the top coaches in the state in Coffee' Robby Pruitt and Lowndes' Randy McPherson.  These two coaches are also good friends but all that goes out the window Friday.  Trojans are banged up says Pruitt...Lowndes 28-14

Valdosta at Tift Co.:   Both of these teams are 0-2 in the region and this is a must win for both if they want to stay in the playoff race. Wildcats face a tough challenge going on the road after a gut wrenching loss in the Winnersville Classic...Valdosta 21-7

Colquitt Co. at Brunswick:   Packers head to the coast to face the talented Pirates in Brunswick's first region game at home...Colquitt Co.  42-24

Thomasville at Early Co.:  Perhaps the biggest game on the 1-AA schedule this season.  The way the standings look the loser of this game is likely the 5th team in the four team playoff battle.  Bobcats have offense and Thomasville has a very good defense... I am going with the home offense... Early Co.  22-21

Jefferson Co. at Cook:  No off week for the Hornets who step out of region to play Jefferson County.   I like the Hornets...Cook  27-13

Seminole Co. at Calhoun Co.:   Seminole coach Alan Ingram said playing the Cougars in Edison is never easy...  That may be true but the Indians are not easy to beat wherever they are playing... Seminole... 44-18

Terrell Co. at Miller Co.:  Greenwave have lost two straight but did beat the Pirates last season.  I think Miller rememebers that also...Miller Co.  25-20

Wilcox Co. at Clinch Co.:   The Patriots showed last week they are a still a contender for the region title with a dominant shutout of Turner County.  Clinch County is struggling and needs this game to help their fading playoff chances...Wilcox Co.  27-25

Lanier Co. at Irwin Co.:  The first place Indians are back at home to host the last place Bulldogs... Irwin Co.  41-19

Marion Co. at Dooly Co.:  The first place in region 4-A will be broken in what should be a great battle in the Grove..  Dooly Co. 13-7

Westfield at Deerfield-Windsor:  The region title once again on line.  Knights have won 7 straight against the Hornets and 23 straight region games.  I think the streaks continue..DWS 28-21

Westwood at Valwood:  Another GISA game that will likely decide the region championship. The unbeaten Valiants have been lighting up the scoreboard all season. Westwood can score points in a hurry also... This one should be fun to watch...Valwood  35-28

Southwest Georgia at Sherwood Christian:  The Eagles are glad to be back at home after road losses at Valwood and Westwood.   SGA though is no picnic and are getting better each week.SGA 36-34

Cairo defeats Albany
Worth Co. defeats Cook
Brooks Co defeats Pelham
Fitzgerald defeats Berrien
Mitchell Co defeats Stewart Co
Turner Co defeats Telfair
Atkinson Co. defeats Metter
Bulloch defeats Tiftarea
Southland defeats Pinewood Christian
Terrell Academy defeats Brookwood
Crisp Academy defeats Frederica
Fullington defeats Randolph-Southern

 

  One of my better weeks at 18-4 but of course we had entire region and two GISA teams taking the week off.  Something I don't want to do with the monster games we have tonight.

Lowndes at Valdosta (Locker Room Game of the Week):  It has been a great year for Valdosta after their incredible comeback win at Lowndes last year in the final minute.  The problem for Valdosta is Lowndes' hasn't forgotten that game and when the Vikings are focused they are dangerous....Lowndes  17-7

Brunswick at Coffee:   The Trojans are back at Jardine Stadium for a battle against the Pirates from Brunswick.  The Pirates speed could make this interesting but I like the Trojans..Coffee 35-21

Bainbridge at Harris Co.:   This is a dangerous game for Bainbridge.   A long road trip coming off a tough overtime loss at TCC.  But with two region games on the road to start the schedule sets up nice in the final month... Crossing my fingers..Bainbridge 28-21

Monroe at Americus-Sumter:  It is back to work in region 1-AAAA where the Panthers, unbeaten in region play, host a Monroe team that needs a win to stay in the hunt for the title.  These two teams are very similar but I have picked the Panthers to win the region and even with the coaching change I am sticking with it...Americus-Sumter 20-18

Albany vs Dougherty:   Both of these teams need a win and this could be a very entertaining game.  Dougherty is playing as well as they can while Albany just can't catch any breaks...Albany 34-28

Worth Co. at Cairo:  Cairo remembers Worth County's incredible comeback on their last visit to West Thomas Stadium. This time I think it is Cairo that has the big 4th quarter...Cairo  28-14

Fitzgerald at  Brooks Co.:   The winner of this game like takes the 1-AA title.   Purple Hurricanes love to run and the Trojans love to pass.  Brooks has just looked too strong every week..Brooks Co.  35-34

Mitchell Co. at Terrell Co.:   Both of these teams already have one region loss and neither wants a second in the playoff race.. Mitchell Co.  27-20

Turner Co. at Wilcox Co.:  Wilcox County can climb back in the region title race with a win over the Rebels.  Turner County has been playing strong and their win over Charlton County got some attention across the state.   Turner County has always played Wilcox County tough and I think the Rebels get the win on the road...  Turner County 30-27

Irwin Co. at Clinch Co.:   The team to watch in region 2-A is Irwin County.   Indians have had two big wins are headed to the swamp to face Clinch County.  Panthers have had two weeks to get ready but Irwin County has won three of the last four games against Clinch...Irwin  16-14

Deerfield-Windsor at Bulloch:  Knights are on the road for a region opener against an unbeaten Bulloch team.  Knights non-region schedule though should have them better prepared for the region opener.. DWS  35-21

Sherwood Christian at Westwood:  Eagles got a rude welcome back to 3-AA last week at Valwood.   Westwood is also a newcomer in the region but they will not roll out the welcome mat either.. Westwood  44-34

Crisp Academy at Fullington:   These two rivals have plenty on the line in this region game.Crisp Academy 20-13

Camden defeats Tift Co.
Thomas Co. Central defeats Northside-Columbus
Westover defeats Crisp Co.
Thomasville defeats Berrien
Cook defeats Pelham
Baconton defeats St. Francis
Seminole Co. defeats Stewart Co.
Miller Co. defeats Randolph-Clay
Charlton Co. defeats Lanier Co.
Dooly Co. defeats Central Talbotton
Greenville defeats Schley Co.
Marion Co. defeats St. Anne Pacelli
Westfield defeats Southland
Pinewood Christian defeats Tiftarea
Southwest Georgia defeats Brookwood
Valwood defeats Terrell Academy

 

 

 

 

 

   Consistency with a 22-8 record on a very difficult week.   I had the Lowndes Colquitt score down at 17-14 but the wrong side winning.   I know it means nothing but woulda coulda shoulda.    Kind of a quiet week with 1-AAAA having an open date but we face some big choices.

Cook at Fitzgerald:  The #3 Hornets bring a solid defense into Jaycee Stadium to face the #5 Purple Hurricanes and their veer offense.   Cook is developing a running game to go with their spread passing attack.   Coin flip maybe needed on this pick... Cook 20-14

Brooks Co. at Thomasville:   The high powered Brooks offense faces a big challenge against an always tough Thomasville defense.  Bulldogs record of 1-4 looks disappointing when you remember just how tough their schedule has been this season.  It could pay off if the Bulldogs are playing in December...   Brooks Co.   27-20

Colquitt Co. at Tift Co.:   The Packers had better put last week's controversy in a drawer because the Blue Devils are a quality team that will beat you if you are not ready to play.  Packers offensive line has got to step up in this game... Colquitt County 31-17

Brunswick at Lowndes:  The Pirates make their first trip to Martin Stadium since the Vikings beat them for the AAAA state championship in 2009.  The tradition of great skill players is still there at Brunswick but Lowndes will not be looking behind to Colquitt or ahead next week to Valdosta...Lowndes 36-18

Coffee at Camden Co.:  The Camden Cats made a statement with their convincing win last week at Valdosta... Camden  39-23

Bainbridge at Thomas Co. Central:  A game usually at the end of the schedule is the region opener for these two teams expected to contend for the title.  TCC will honor their 1992 state championship team.  This year's Jacket team could have a similar celebration in 2032.  I wonder if I will still be doing the Locker Room then?   TCC   35-14

Hardaway at Lee Co.:   The Trojans are once again unbeaten entering region play and I think the roll continues this week...Lee   49-28

Terrell Co. at Seminole Co.:  The most impressive thing about the Greenwave win at Calhoun Co. last week was the shutout.  Terrell County defense will have their hands full with the speed of the Indians....Seminole  27-25

Mitchell Co. at Randolph-Clay:   The Eagles second half break down cost them a region opening win last week.  Red Devils are playing their region opener and I think home field will be the difference.... R-C  23-21

Charlton Co. at Turner Co.:  The Rebels are looked solid in the first half of the season and face a perennial state title contender on their home field.   This is what we call in the business a statement game for Turner County...Turner  19-14

Sherwood Christian at Valwood:   The Eagles return to region 3-AA and face an unbeaten Valwood team...  Valwood  33-30

Southwest Georgia at Terrell Academy:   These two rivals are now region rivals which should make this game even more enjoyable to watch.. Terrell Academy  22-18

Early Co. defeats Berrien
Miller Co. defeats Calhoun Co.
Baconton defeats North Cobb Christian
Irwin Co. defeats Telfair Co.
Wilcox Co. defeats Lanier Co.
Dooly Co. defeats Hawkinsville
Marion Co. defeats Schley Co.
Tiftarea defeats Crisp Academy
Westwood defeats Brookwood
Randolph-Southern defeats Frederica

Enjoy

I solid week with a 21-7 record and most of the losses came on the back end of the games.  Sorry about the late posting this week but I am playing catchup.  This is one of the biggest weeks in the season with region 1-AAAAAA and 1-AA opening region play.

Lowndes at Colquitt Co.:  Our Locker Room game of the week is the toughest pick I have made ever.   Packers are proven with a tough non-region schedule and are coming off a bye week.  Lowndes has motivation after the loss they suffered to the Packers last year in Valdosta....Colquitt Co.  17-14

Camden Co. at Valdosta:  The #1 Kingsland Cats get quite a welcome to region 1-AAAA with an opener at Cleveland Field.  I believe Valdosta's offense will have a few plays but I like the Camden defense...Camden  14-7

Tift Co. at Coffee:   The other great game in this region.   Both of these teams have looked pretty good in the first season with new head coaches.  Both teams want to run the football and I think the Trojans prevail at home....Coffee  31-24

Lee Co. at Dodge Co.:  Trojans hit the road with a 4-0 record and should come home from Eastman 5-0....  Lee   45-20

Westover at Cairo:  Kind of odd the four teams who won their region openers last week in 1-AAAA are playing each other in week two.  Westover dominated the first half of last year's game before Cairo stepped out of a phone booth and played Superman Syrupmaker football in the second half.   I don't think Cairo comes out flat this week... Cairo  20-12

Americus-Sumter at Worth Co.:  The Panthers are 2-0 since their head coach was suspended with pay.   Before that suspension, Americus-Sumter head coach Michael Pollock made some lineup changes which among other things got all-around talent Jonathan Thomas more touches of the rock.....  Americus-Sumter  27-22

Albany vs Monroe (Saturday): A big game for two teams both wanting to avoid 0-2 starts in the region.   Emmanuel Byrd should be back at QB for Albany but I believe the balance of Monroe's attack is the difference...Monroe  20-18

Early Co. at Brooks Co.:  Two of the best QBs in south Georgia will go head to head in this region 1-AA opener.   I am glad I am not a defensive coordinator in this game because both of these offenses are very good...Brooks Co.  39-35

Thomasville at Cook:   This is also a very tough game to pick.   Cook High has looked solid and Thomasville has played a tough non-region schedule and they will be ready for this region opener....Cook 14-13

Terrell Co. at Calhoun Co.:    The Greenwave head to Edison for a big region showdown against the Cougars.   Both teams have plenty of talent at the skill positions...Terrell Co.  37-34

Miller Co. at Mitchell Co.:   The Pirates head to Camilla for a battle against an Eagles team that has finished first and second in the region in the last two years.   Miller Co.   23-13

Wilcox Co. at Charlton Co.:    The Patriots head to Folkston for their region opener.  Wilcox County's skill players should be enough althoguh Charlton should be focused after their loss last week at Fitzgerald... Wilcox Co.  26-24

Turner Co. at Lanier Co.:  The Rebels travel southeast from Nashville to Lakeland for their region opener against the Bulldogs..   Turner is the team to watch in region 2-A this season..Turner Co. 35-16

Sherwood Christian at Deerfield-Windsor:   The Eagles are off to a good start at 3-2 but face a Deerfield-Windsor team that just defeated the three Macon GISA schools in three straight weeks.  Knights coach Allen Lowe goes for win #200.... DWS  35-18

Heritage at Southland:  Former Deerfield-Windsor player Kevin Prisant brings an unbeaten Heritage squad to Americus to face the 5-0 Raiders.  Southland isn't winning pretty but they are winning close games and I think that will help again Friday...Southland  28-21

Dougherty defeats Crisp Co.
Fitzgerald defeats Pelham.
Benedictine defeats Atkinson Co.
Bacon Co. defeats McIntosh Co. Academy
Stewart Co. defeats Baconton
Randolph-Clay defeats Barbour Co., Al.
Clinch Co. defeats Telfair Co.
Dooly Co. defeats Brookstone
Marion Co. defeats Greenville
Schley Co. defeats Hawkinsville
Westwood defeats Tiftarea
Flint River defeats Brookwood
Terrell Academy defeats Crisp Academy
Mount de Sales defeats Valwood
Fullington defeats Central Fellowship

Have a good weekend

 

 

I am in midseason form with a 27-4 record last week and only one of those losses was in the big games of the week.  I wish I could end on a high note like that but I am going to try to do even better this week.

Thomas Co. Central at Tift Co.  Our Locker Room game of the week features two teams who have looked very good in each of their last two games.  Both love to run the football but both do it differently.  I like the Jackets to keep rolling.TC Central  21-14

Americus-Sumter at Albany:  Turmoil in Americus for a second straight week which is not fair to the players with this being the start of region play.  Albany High is a good team and I think the Indians win at home....Albany  24-21

Westlake at Bainbridge:  Bearcats have won two games in the final seconds but face a Westlake team that is winless... Bainbridge 22-13

Morrow at Lee Co.:   The unbeaten Trojans host Morrow for homecoming in their first game against a non-Albany school.... Lee Co.  52-35

Hardaway at Lowndes:  Some eyebrows likely raised with the Vikings only leading 3-0 last week at half...  I think the score will be different this week at intermission..Lowndes 49-14

Newton at Valdosta:  Newton is back in Winnersville to see what like is like at Cleveland field. The view is not any better than what they got at Martin Stadium...Valdosta 35-7

Charlton Co. at Fitzgerald:   The Purple Hurricanes coming off a tough overtime loss to Monroe have a short week to play the Indians...  Fitzgerald  21-20

Turner Co. at Berrien:  The battle of the Rebels with Berrien having won two straight and Turner County is one play away from being undefeated...Berrien  34-32

Marion Co. at Miller Co.:   This is a very good matchup between two playoff teams from last year and both could use win to help them in the Class A power rankings...Miller Co. 27-20

Pelham at Seminole Co.:  The Hornets are not only looking for wins but also points.  Indians back at home after a tough loss and Seminole needs this game...Seminole  26-12

Deerfield-Winddsor at Tattnall Square:   The Knights are looking like a state title contender but face the defending state champs who are 0-4 this season.... This game I think will be close with the Knights coming off the Stratford win... DWS 14-10

Southland at Terrell Academy:  This should be an entertaining battle between two unbeaten teams....Southland  36-34

Sherwood Christian at Windsor (Thursday):  The Eagles have looked very good so far and will have a big night in Macon..SCA   35-18

Coffee defeats Mundys Mill
Cairo defeats Crisp Co.
Worth Co. defeats Dougherty
Early Co. defeats Calhoun Co.
Terrell Co. defeats Schley Co.
Brooks Co. defeats Mitchell Co.
Randolph-Clay defeats Stewart Co.
Wilkinson Co. defeats Irwin Co.
Baconton defeats Pacelli (Thursday)
SE Bulloch defeats Telfair Co.
Atkinson Co. defeats Long Co.
Bacon Co. defeats Jeff Davis
Brookwood defeats Tiftarea
Thomas Jefferson defeats Fullington
Griffin Christian defeats Randolph-Southern

 

 

 

A similar record with 23-10 but most of the wins came on the back end this week.  I need to step up in picking the big games this week.

Carver Columbus at Colquitt Co.:   Packers coach Rush Propst put together such a tough schedule that #3 Tigers are the Packers homecoming opponent.  The coach likes the way his defense is playing and that should be enough again this week.. Colquitt Co. 24-14

Burke Co. at Coffee:  The question in south Georgia is are the 2-0 Trojans for real?  The answer should come Friday against a talented Burke County team...Trojans are rested and I believe ready..Coffee  28-21

Lee Co. at Westover:  The Trojans offense has been unstoppable for their first two games but Westover has size on both lines of scrimmage and that makes this a very interesting matchup...Lee County 36-34

Worth Co. at Tift Co.:  Blue Devils RB Reshard Daniels is off to a great start and the Rams are usuallly good on defense but may have trouble slowing him down...Tift Co.  35-13

Crisp Co. at Valdosta:  The winless Cougars have yet to score a point this season and after Valdosta's loss to Brooks County last week.  This is not a good time to venture into Cleveland Field... Valdosta  41-0

Windsor-Forest at Lowndes:  The Knights from Savannah are a very good football team but the Vikings are in a different galaxy...Lowndes   42-12

Cairo at Thomas Co. Central:  Another of the great rivalry games for both of these schools. It has been noted the Syrupmakers are very good at defending the TCC veer but Jackets QB Adam Choice is a different story...TC Central 14-10

Thomasville at Westminster:   Bulldogs head to Atlanta for another tough non-region battle.   Westminster  17-16

Bainbridge at Early Co.:  Bobcats are off to a good start with two wins and are scoring plenty of points.  Bainbridge though has one of the toughest defenses Early Co. will see this year...Bainbridge 27-20

Albany at Mitchell Co.:   The winless Indians face an Eagle team that has played well in both of their games... Albany  26-23

Seminole Co. at Clinch Co.:  Indians won a barn burner last week at Donalsonville and always play Clinch County tough... Clinch Co.  29-25

Calhoun Co. at Turner Co.: This is another great matchup between two good teams that are kind of playing under the radar... Turner Co.  37-29

Wilcox Co. at Dooly Co.:   The Patriots need to get healthy but I think the Bobcats may still be celebrating last week's win at Americus-Sumter....Wilcox Co.  27-17

Stratford at Deerfield-Windsor:   Knights lost twice to the Eagles last season and that motivation should be enough... DWS  21-14

Southland at Sherwood Christian:  Eagles have won two straight but Southland is unbeaten because they are a good team..Southland  32-14

Memorial at Valwood:  The unbeaten Valiants face a big challenge against Memorial..Valwood 36-25

Cook over Dougherty  (Thursday)
Americus-Sumter over Macon Co.
Fitzgerald over Monroe (Saturday)
Berrien over Lanier Co.
Miller Co. over Pelham
McIntosh Co. Academy over Atkinson Co.
Irwin Co. over East Laurens
Telfair Co. over Baconton
Terrell Co. over Central Talbotton
Taylor Co. over Schley Co.
Stewart Co. over St. Anne Pacelli
Terrell Academy over Fullington
Westwood over Windsor (Saturday)
Crisp Academy over Covenant
Randolph-Southern over John Hancock

 

   A pretty good full opening week with a 24-10 record and I was unbeaten in the marquee matchups.  Have to do better at the bottom end of the picks with an overall record of 37-14.

Albany at Lee Co.:   Lee County can score points in bunches but the problem is that means their defense is on the field for alot of snaps.  AHS got rolling late and two missed two point conversions cost the Indians a road win.   Albany 44-43

Cairo at Bainbridge:   The Syrupmakers not look to win bragging rights to west where Bainbridge has had two weeks to get ready....  Bainbridge  17-14

Thomas Co. Central at Marist:  Ah the memories that flood the mind when thinking of this rivalry.   The Jackets have looked good so far and I can see a road win...TCC  35-32

Brooks Co. at Valdosta:   The Trojans take an unbeaten record and no fear over to Cleveland Field but Valdosta is a team to watch in AAAAAA this year... VHS  34-20

Newton at Lowndes:  Vikings will dominate again...Lowndes 44-12

Lovejoy at Colquitt Co.:  Packers defensive issues early are a concern and need to be addressed before region play starts.. Colquitt  Co.   38-17

Dooly Co. at Americus-Sumter:   The Class A Bobcats are thinking upset of the AAAA Panthers who were good enough to win in week 1.  Americus-Sumter 26-22

Jonesboro at Westover:   The Patriots got a big win over Tift County last Saturday but a short week does have me concerned...Westover 29-27

Monroe at Wilcox Co.:  The Tornadoes had better put the hail mary loss at Brooks Co. in the rear view mirror because the Patriots are also a team that is calm enough to win in the final seconds..Monroe  33-31

Irwin Co. at Fitzgerald:  It has been over 10 years since the Indians from Ocilla have beaten the Purple Hurricanes.  Fitzgerald has dominated this series but I think Irwin Co. will make it close...Fitzgerald 20-16

Mitchell Co. at Pelham:   It is hard to believe these schools have flopped in classifications.  The Hornets are at home and I like that in this game..Pelham  22-21

Early Co. at Miller Co.: Miller Co. head coach Frank Killingsworth is impressed with the Bobcat team that looked impressive to me in their win over Seminole last week..Early Co.  36-18

Mount de Sales at Deerfield-Windsor:  Knights were in the game at NFC until heat and cramps cost them.  No place like home  DWS  35-21

Southland at SGA:  Unbeaten Raiders head on the road to play Southwest Georgia where the Warriors are always tough..Southland  27-20

Flint River at Valwood:  Valiants have had two big wins to start the season.  Make it 3...Valwood 32-25

Camden Co. defeats Johnson Savannah
Houston Co. defeats Tift Co.
Brantley Co. defeats Berrien
Cook defeats Crisp Co.
Thomasville defeats Stewart Co.
Quincy-Monroe defeats Baconton
Randolph-Clay defeats Spencer
Turner Co. defeats Seminole Co.
Terrell Co. defeats Chattahoochee Co.
Ware Co. defeats Charlton Co.
Dodge Co. defeats Hawkinsville
Marion Co. defeats Kendrick
Westfield defeats Brookwood
Sherwood Christian defeats Randolph-Southern
Terrell Academy defeats Windsor
Westwood defeats Dawson Street
Crisp Academy defeats John Hancock
Fullington defeats Nathanael Greene

The opening week was a respectable 13-4 and with everything kicking in.  The games will be tougher in this first ful week in the GHSA.

Monroe at Brooks Co:   This game could be a shootout with Brooks QB Malcolm Parrish going against Monroe's Charles Stafford.  It is too hard not to like the Trojans at home... Brooks 42-34

Coffee at Ware Co.:   I don't know how good a team Whitewater is but the 41-3 Coffee win last week is a sign Robby Pruitt has already got the Trojans on the track he wants.  They are not ready for the Dome in week 2 but they will be ready in the Swamp. Coffee 27-21

Colquitt Co. at Thomas Co. Central:  Packers disappointed and the Jackets impressed in their season openers but Colquitt County is likely to be a bit more focused in this great rivalry.. Colquitt Co.  31-28

Thomasville at Cairo:  The Bulldogs are coming off a big loss to TCC and catch a Syrupmakers will have a tough defense as usual... Cairo  14-10

Lee Co. at Dougherty:  The Trojan Bowl returns to Hugh Mills Stadium where Lee County should have a big night against a young Dougherty team that has a coach committed for the long term... Lee Co.   42-18

Worth Co. at Cook:   Rams had a big win at home last week against Swainsbor but the Hornets have had their number lately....Cook  22-19

Seminole Co. at Early Co.:  This is always a great rivalry.  Bobcats have plenty of talent on offense and the Indians are reloading..Early Co.  26-20

Mitchell Co. at Clinch Co.:  Not a good week  to be traveling to Homerville after the Panthers loss at Brooks Co.   Clinch  33-12

Wilkinson Co. at Wilcox Co.:   A top five showdown in Class A with two teams who have plenty of talent at the skill positions.  Wilcox Co.  39-36

Deerfield-Windsor at North Fla. Christian:  The Knights were able to give NFC a decent game last year in Albany but NFC has too much firepower  NFC  35-14

Brookwood at Southland:  Raiders had a dramatic OT win over Tattnall and need to avoid a letdown against the dangerous Warriors..Southland 22-21

Westwood at Stratford:  The Wildcats 27 game winning streak faces a big test against a AAA Stratford team and an emotion win last week... Stratford  27-20

Valwood at Edmund Burke:  This is a good early season test for Ashley Henderson's Valiants...Valwood  23-20

Other games:

Lowndes over Luella
Valdosta over North Augusta SC  Saturday
Tift Co. over Westover  Saturday
Albany over Greenville
Americus-Sumter over Kendrick
Crisp Co. over Turner Co.
Jeff Davis over Atkinson Co.
Lanier Co. over Long Co.
Pelham over Baconton
Berrien over Calhoun Co.
Randolph-Clay over Hancock Central
Irwin Co. over Taylor Co.
Telfair Co. over Wheeler Co.
Dooly Co. over Macon Co.
Hawkinsville over Bleckley Co.
Miller Co. over Schley Co.
Terrell Co. over Marion Co.
Tiftarea over Sherwood Christian
Southwest Ga over Windsor
Terrell Academy over Randolph-Southern
Crisp Academy over Nathanael Greene

Have a great Labor Day Weekend

 

Another high school football season is here and I am ready for the challenge of trying to pick the winners each Friday night.

The season really kicks off next week for everyone but still a number of great games to wet our appetites.

Coffee at Whitewater:  New Coffee coach Robby Pruitt has a tough opening game on the road against a Whitewater program that just missed the playoffs last season...  Coffee  35-28

East Gadsden at Bainbridge:  The Bearcats found a opening game after Northview-Dothan canceled on them.   Bearcats should take care of business at home.. Bainbridge  24-13

Swainsboro at Worth Co.:  Swainsboro brings UGA commit Rico Johnson to Milt Miller Field.    Johnson plays QB and the Tigers let him make as many plays as possible.  Worth will look for their offensive line to dominate play and keep the ball out of Johnson's hands as much as possible.  Worth Co.  19-14

Clinch Co. at Brooks Co.:  A great non-region matchup between two very good programs. These two teams have plenty of speed but Malcolm Parrish should make plenty of plays in the passing game.. Brooks Co.   36-31

Fitzgerald at Jefferson Co.:   New Purple Hurricanes head coach Jason Strickland faces a long road trip in a tough opener.  Jefferson County has been very good in recent years but I like the Canes on the road.. Fitzgerald  27-18

Atkinson Co. at Lanier Co.:  The Bulldogs have a new head coach and face an Atkinson County team I believe will be much improved under head coach Jody Stone.  This border war will be close...Lanier  13-12

Thomas Co. Central at Thomasville (Saturday):  The Rose City showdown expects to be close. The Bulldogs are wanting to start the season with a win over their cross town rivals but the Jackets I believe pull out a close one..  TC Central  17-14

Colquitt Co. vs North Gwinnett (Saturday Georgia Dome):  The Packers start the season ranked 3rd in AAAAAA ( too many A's for my GPA) but lost their preseason scrimmage last week.  I usually don't put alot of stock in preseason scrimmages but the Packers have been battling injuries during the preseason and North Gwinnett is looking to avenge a playoff loss last season.  I can't go against the Pack Colquitt Co.  27-25

I like Brantley Co. to defeat Baconton.

 

Deerfield-Windsor at Southwest Georgia:   The Knights appear ready to make another GISA state title run and the Warriors want to do the same in AA in the GISA.. Should be plenty of fun in Damascus.  DWS   38-31

Tattnall Square at Southland:   Tim Goodin and his Raiders believe this will be a big year for Southland.  Tattnall coming off a state championship but return just five starter.  Good time to make a statement.. Southland  21-14

Sherwood Christian at Trinity-Dublin:  Eagles are young and Trinity Christian has struggled as well. so, this is a good opener for both teams... SCA  18-16

Piedmont at Westwood:  How much bigger can the pre-game hype get?   Both teams are two time defending state champions and both have long winning streaks..   Westwood is moving up to AA and lost some key play makers.. Piedmont   34-33

Windsor at Valwood:  Ashley Henderson makes his debut as head coach with the Valiants who have plenty of talent at the skill positions and have big goals this season...Valwood  27-14

Tiftarea at Terrell Academy:   Another great opening game between two traditional GISA powers.  It is the debut for new Tiftarea head coach Ryan Branch against a veteran Terrell Academy team.   The Panthers are young and the Eagles have experience... Terrell  22-20

I like Fullington over Covenant, Randolph-Southern to defeat Nathanael Greene and on Saturday Brookwood wins at John Paul in Tallahassee.

See you next week

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