Class AAAAAA
Camden County Wildcats
Region 1-AAAAAA
Overall record last year: 5-5
Region record last year: 0-5
Coach’s name: Welton Coffey
Years at this school: 3rd year as Head Coach (9 overall)
Coach’s record: 72-24
Stadium name/Capacity: Chris Gilman Stadium (10,000)
Summary of last year:
2014 was a difficult year for the Camden County Wildcats to say the least. For the first time in many years, the Cats did not make the playoffs and had to settle for a .500 record. After winning their first five games of the season, Camden rolled into region play and could not come up with a win. The Cats made quick work of non-region foes Brunswick, Glynn Academy, Wayne County, Dutchtown and Lincoln of Tallahassee, Florida. Four of their region losses were by a total of 16 points difference.
What is your outlook for this season?
“We are looking forward to getting back on the field and competing in 2015. Our kids are always excited about the opportunity to play football around here in Camden County. We have a tough schedule again this year, but we welcome that and embrace it,” Coach Welton Coffey said.
Gone from last year’s team:
Gone is kick-returner and defensive back Antonio Wimbush who did everything for the Wildcats last season. Top receiver Centarius Williams has departed as has eading tackler Dionte Donley. In all, Camden loses 12 senior starters from the 2014 squad.
Returning from last year’s team:
Leading passer and starting quarterback Antonio Hamilton Hamiton returns this season, as does linebacker D’Andre Gardenhire-Washington, tight end Mack Nash and running back Brandon McMaster. The Wildcats return four starters on offense and five on defense this season.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
The Wildcats will be strong at running back this year with top rusher McMaster coming back as a junior. The Cats will be led by juniors and seniors this season while bringing up new underclassmen. They will be weak in the secondary with the loss of Wimbush but hope to fill those positions with up and coming players.
Big games this year:
Tallahassee Lincoln, Glynn Academy, Valdosta, Lowndes, Tift, Lee and Colquitt County. Playing in one of the toughest football regions in the state, the Wildcats have a tough region schedule to play in the last five games of the season.
Players to watch this season:
Deandre Gardenhire-Washington, senior defensive end
Mack Nash senior tight end/defensive lineman
Harrison Poole senior defensive back/running back
Antonio Hamilton senior quarterback
Zeke Moore senior defensive back/wide receiver
Brandon McMaster junior running back and defensive back
Cole Loden junior defensive back
Team Schedule:
14-Aug Richmond Hill (Scrimmage)
22-Aug Tallahassee Lincoln
28-Aug Dutchtown
4-Sep @ Glynn Academy
11-Sep Brunswick
18-Sep Wayne County
25-Sep Open
2-Oct @ Valdosta
9-Oct Lowndes County
16-Oct @ Tift County
23-Oct Open
30-Oct @ Lee County
6-Nov Colquitt County
Class AAAAA
Bradwell Institute Tigers
Region: 3-AAAAA
Overall record last year: 0-10
Region record last year: 0-8
Coach’s name: Greg Hill
Years at this school: 2nd year
Coach’s record: 0-10
Stadium name/Capacity: Olvey Field – 6,083
Summary of last year:
2014 was a rebuilding year for the Tigers of Coach Greg Hill. The team went winless in his first season as the new coach instituted his system. “Seeing our kids each week give their best effort. It didn’t matter who we were facing on Friday nights, they came and fought with everything they had. We were proud of them,” Coach Hill says.
What is your outlook for this season?
“I’m very optimistic about this season. I witnessed our kids develop more fundamentally as football players. It will be interesting to see who will surface & take charge and lead our football team. They’ve put in a lot of hard work during the off-season and I think it will pay off for us.”
Gone from last year’s team:
The Tigers lose 14 starters from last season including leading tackler Isaiah Barnes.
Returning from last year’s team:
Returning this year will be five starters on offense and three on defense. Included in those returning is leading rusher Luther Echols, quarterback Duane Johnson and top receiver Deion Stewart.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
The tigers hve some skill positions coming back this season. “As a team overall we are stronger, both mentally and physically. Those are the things that at least gives you a chance at being competitive.” Coach Hill lists his weaknesses as the number of players starting at new positions. “We will have to grow up quickly in those areas.”
Big games this year:
Coach Hill says all of the games on Bradwell’s schedule will be big this year as they go searching for that first win. “We are in one of the strongest regions top to bottom in the state. We will look each game one at a time.”
Players to watch this season:
Tyler Rider/OL/Junior
Shawn Strickland/OL/Senior
Isaac Moana/LB/Senior
Josh Ingram/OLB/Junior,
Terrius Crimiel/CB/Junior
Team Schedule:
August 28 at Liberty County
September 4 Calvary Day School
September 11 at Richmond Hill
September 25 Ware County
October 2 at Glynn Academy
October 9 Effingham County
October 16 at Statesboro
October 23 South Effingham
October 30 at Brunswick
November 6 Coffee
Brunswick High Pirates
A New Coach, A New Era in Brunswick
Region 3-AAAAA
Overall record last year: 6-5
Region record last year: 5-3
Coach’s name: Larry Harold
Years at this school: 1st year as Head Coach (4th overall)
Coach’s record: 19-15
Stadium name/Capacity: Glynn County Stadium (12,000)
Summary of last year:
The Pirates went 6-4 during the regular season and were the fourth seed from Region 3-AAAAA, falling in the first round after losing their starting quarterback. In December, a decision was made to part ways with former coach Victor Floyd and Larry Harold was hired. Harold spent the last three years as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Macon County High School in Montezuma where he has had a 19-15 record with playoff appearances all three years.
What is your outlook for this season?
New head coach Larry Harold looks to build on the playoff appearance success the Pirates had last year. Brunswick High is focusing on getting back to the basics of football and coming together as both a team and a coaching staff. “The Pirates were able to make a playoff appearance with a young group of players on offense that will be returning, including a QB and WR who combined for nearly 3000 yards of offense,” says Coach Larry Harold who takes over the program this season. “The offense has picked up the new system well and has looked very good against summer competition.” Under Coach Harold the Pirates will be installing a new defensive attack that boasted three shutouts and three games of seven or fewer points last year in Macon County. Although the Pirates will be young they are hungry to prove that last year’s success was not a fluke, and that they are capable of making it even farther in 2015.
Gone from last year’s team:
The Pirates lose senior leadership from last season’s playoff team including William Brinkley who is now at Fort Valley State University, offensive lineman Jackson Gibbs who signed with Jacksonville University and defensive back Carlos Pickett who enrolled early at Kent State.
Returning from last year’s team:
An offensive nucleus that accounted for over 3,000 yards last year. Quarterback Randon Jernigan is a sophomore now and a year more experienced. Last season he threw for over 1,000 yards and ran for more than 1,000 more. Wide receiver Shawn Smith , the team’s top receiver last year returns as a junior.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
“We have a very young but talented group of skill players on both sides of the ball who should be able to produce big plays,” Coach Harold says. “However, young guys will be forced to grow up quick under the lights in order for us to be competitive.”
Big games this year:
Region contests against Ware County, Coffee County and the always tough cross-town rivalry against Glynn Academy.
Players to watch this season:
Randon Jernigan (Spoh, QB), Sharrod Frazier (Soph., LB), Kam Futch (Soph, LB), Santana Clark (Soph., DB), Ty Hinson (Soph., OL), John Cano (Soph. OL), Rudy Nixon (Soph., DL), Shaq Robinson (Soph., RB), Ben McCloud (Soph., RB), Tyler Grant (Soph., RB), Reggie Jackson (Junior, DL), Dwayne Austell (Junior, DL), D.J. Whitfield (Soph., WR), Seth Neugabauer (Junior, TE), Kelvin Daniels (Junior, WR), Kenneth Dallas (Junior, WR), John Grant (Junior, LB)
Team Schedule:
August 21McIntosh County Academy
August 28Glynn Academy
September 11At Camden County
September 18At Effingham County
September 25Statesboro
October 02At South Effingham
October 16Coffee
October 23At Richmond Hill
October 30Bradwell Institute
November 05At Ware County
Richmond Hill Wildcats
Region 3-AAAAA
Overall record last year: 2-8
Region record last year: 1-7
Coach’s name: Matt LeZotte
Years at this school: 1st year as Head Coach
Coach’s record: 28-16
Stadium: Wildcat Stadium
Summary of last year:
With a large and experienced senior class on hand, expectations were high at Richmond Hill last season. And the Wildcats did not disappoint coming out of the gate, winning their first two games. The ‘Cats would not taste victory again in 2014, however, losing their final eight games including seven in a row in region play. Now with a new head coach, a remodeled stadium and new faces on both sides of the ball, Richmond Hill looks to build for the future, while remaining as competitive as possible in the present. “They lost a handful of games last year by 10 or 11 points,” said first-year head coach Matt LeZotte, who takes over at Richmond Hill after spending the past two seasons at Wayne County where he was assistant head coach and running backs coach. Before that, he was head coach and athletic director at Aquinas High in Augusta for four years.
What is your outlook for this season?
The offense will have a new look as LeZotte is abandoning the triple-option attack of last season in favor of a more passing friendly spread-power formation. He hasn’t yet settled on who will operate it though, with four players still in contention for the starting quarterback spot.
“We’re going to take it all the way to September and give everybody a chance,” said LeZotte. “We’ve got quite a few guys competing and we’re blessed that all our quarterbacks can play other positions. They’re all outstanding athletes and we’re going to try to get them all on the field.”
Returning from last year’s team:
There is more experience on the defensive side for Richmond Hill as the Wildcats return five starters including three starting linebackers. Twins Taylor and Tyler Milbrandt along with Kywann Green return to lead a unit LeZotte expects to be one of the team’s main strengths.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
The offensive line will be inexperienced but LeZotte has already been impressed with the group’s work ethic. “We’ve made a lot of gains since I got here in March,” he said. “We’ve had guys add 20 or 30 pounds of muscle through weightlifting. We expect to average 230 to 235 pounds up front and maybe more than that.”
Big games this year:
Playing in the tough Region 3-AAAAA, all eight of the region contests will be important.
Players to watch this season:
Ansel Hernandez (Senior, OL)
Garrett Biermann (Junior, OL)
Aaron Chick (Senior, DB/WR)
Josh Washington (Junior, DB)
Sam Jones (Soph., DB)
Taylor Milbrandt (Senior, LB)
Tyler Milbrandt (Senior, LB)
Kywann Green (Junior, LB)
Team Schedule:
September 4 Johnson
September 11 Bradwell Institute*
September 18 at Ware
September 25 Glynn Academy*
October 2 at Effingham County*
October 9 Statesboro*
October 16 at South Effingham*
October 23 Brunswick*
October 30 at Coffee
November 6 Liberty County
Glynn Academy Red Terrors
Terrors Hope To Continue Success
Region 3-AAAAA
Overall record last year: 9-4
Region record last year: 6-2
Coach’s name: Rocky Hidalgo
Years at this school: 2nd year as Head Coach (7 overall)
Coach’s record: 49-22
Stadium name/Capacity: Glynn County Stadium (12,000)
Summary of last year:
2014 was an amazing year for the Glynn Academy Red Terrors. For the first time since 1972, GA made it to the quarterfinals of the state playoffs. First year Coach Rocky Hidalgo led the Terrors to the third round including a victory over defending state champion Creekside. After finishing as the third seed in Region 3-AAAAA, the Terrors won their first two state playoff games on the road before falling to eventual state champ Northside Warner Robins.
What is your outlook for this season?
“I believe we have a chance to be very competitive in both the region and in the playoffs. Offensively, our running game should be very good with the return of Garrison Hurd and Jeremiah Anderson and four offensive lineman who have playing experience,” Coach Hidalgo says.
Gone from last year’s team:
Glynn Academy loses 12 starters from last season including five on offense and seven on defense. Region 3-AAAAA Athlete of the Year Adrien Cross has graduated as has defensive lineman Cordarro Stoute. Quarterback Zach Lamper is gone as well as kicker Seth Carroll.
Returning from last year’s team:
GA returns six offensive starters and four defensive regulars. Many skill players are back for the Terrors including running backs Garrison Hurd, who led the team in rushing last year, and Jeremiah Anderson. Playmaker Deejay Dallas is also back along with a strong nucleus from the offensive and defensive lines.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
Coach Hidalgo lists his offensive and defensive lines as strengths for the Terrors this year. With so many skill players returning as well, the only weaknesses may be the secondary where new defensive backs will have to learn quickly.
Big games this year:
The annual cross-town rivalry with Brunswick on August 28 at Glynn County Stadium is always big with GA sitting on the visitor’s side this year. Then there are games against Ware, Camden and Coffee that will also be big in the regular season. The tilts against the Gators and Trojans are Region 3-AAAAA games.
Players to watch this season:
Garrison Hurd Sr/RB MLB
Justin Larson Sr/QB
Frank Ferrell Sr/OL
Deejay Dallas Jr/WR DB
Morris Demery Sr/FS WR
Dexter Roberson Sr /DL
Team Schedule:
August 21At Wayne County
August 28At Brunswick
September 04Camden County
September 18Coffee
September 25At Richmond Hill
October 02Bradwell Institute
October 09At Ware County
October 23Effingham County
October 30At Statesboro
November 06South Effingham
Ware County Gators
Gators Looking Fierce in the Swamp
Region: 3-AAAAA
Overall record last year: 11-1
Region record last year: 8-0
Coach’s name: Franklin Stephens
Years at this school: 2nd year as head coach
Coach’s record: 101-9-1
Stadium name: Waycross Memorial
Highlights from last year:
2014 was a banner year for the Gators with everything going their way until the 12th week of the season. “We accomplished our first undefeated regular season in school history,” Coach Stephens says. The Gators were also ranked number one in the state for most of the season and dominated Region 3-AAAAA with a perfect region record. Ware County made it to the second round of the playoffs before falling to eventual state runner-up Mays High School. During the regular season the Gators downed Coffee County by three points to claim the top of the region rankings and then went on to down Glynn Academy and Brunswick. The Gators ended the season with an 11-1 mark.
What is your outlook for this season?
“There are a lot questions that will be answered early on this year,” Coach Stephens says. “We have some good players, however, a lot of them are inexperienced. Gone are 21 starters from last year’s team that will have to be replaced quickly if we are to have a shot at a successful season.”
Gone from last year’s team:
The Gators lose almost all of their regular starters from last season’s record-breaking team. Gone from last year’s squad are quarterback Xavier Holliman and all-everything player Raekwon Chatman along with most of the defensive starters.
Returning from last year’s team:
Dedrick Mills, who has played linebacker and running back will return this year. Prior to the start of summer workouts, Mils verbally committed to Georgia Tech. Offenssive linemen Allen Jones and Monquez Maxwell are back along with punter Skyler Dixon. Defenive starters coming back are linebacker Ervin Nard and defensive back Deandre Taylor.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
Coach Stephens says his team’s strengths this season are the linebackers ad runningbacks both of which are steadied by Dedrick Mills. After losing so many starters, the Gators’ weaknesses are inexperience on the offensive line, secondary and quarterback.
Big games this year:
All region contests against Coffee County, Glynn Academy, Statesboro and Brunswick. This year’s contest against Coffee will be in Douglas while the others will be played at home.
Players to watch this season:
Ervin Nard (Senior, LB), Dedrick Mills (Senior, LB/RB), Allen Jones (Senior, OL), Jacquez Bolds (Senior, RB), Nate Everette (Senior, DE), Hakeem Dillard (Junior, DB/WR), Hayden Blackburn (Junior, C), Alyx Sayles (Junior, RB), Jordan Turner (Soph, DB/RB), JeMar Lincoln (Junior, QB/DB), Ronnie Adams (Junior, LB), Olajuwone Smith (Junior, DB)
Team Schedule:
August 14 at Valdosta (scrimmage)
August 21 at Brooks
August 28 Hampton
September 4 Open
September 11 at Coffee
September 18 Richmond Hill
September 25 at Bradwell Institute
October 2 Open
October 9 Glynn Academy
October 16 at Effingham
October 23 Statesboro
October 30 at South Effingham
November 5 Brunswick
Class AAAA
Liberty County High School Panthers
Region: AAAA-3
Overall record last year: 4-7
Region record last year: 1-3
Coach’s name: Kirk Warner
Stadium name/Capacity: Donnell Woods/5,000
Highlights from last year: Made it to the AAAA state playoffs for a second consecutive in a row.
In a few sentences, what is your outlook for this season?
Right now it’s a great time to be a Liberty Panther. The basketball team had a final four run and the baseball team made the playoffs so we are experiencing some success. This could be the season that it starts to come together for us. We are still working hard and trying to put some of the pieces together. We need to stay healthy, Richard didn’t play as much early last year when he was injured. Frazier has gotten much better at quarterback in a position that he had to get comfortable with playing that position on varsity. He has worked and we have seen a lot improvement. We still have a month of hard work in front of us but I think as long as we stay healthy we should have an opportunity to have a good season.
Top rusher last year: Jacquez Williams 636 yards rushing 400 yards Rec. 13 total tds
Top passer last year: Jaalon Frazier 721 yards and 7 tds
Top receiver last year: Jacquez Williams 636 yards rushing 400 yards Rec. 13 total tds:
Richard Lecounte 301 yards rushing 116 yards Rec. 6 total tds
Leading tackler last year: Jacari Roberts 103 tackles 7 sacks 10 TFL
Strengths: Speed. Liberty has depth at skill positions highlighted by defensive back Richard LeCounte and running back Jaquez Williams.
Weaknesses: We aren’t as big across the line as we would like to be. We play against teams that have some big lines but we have been working hard in the weight room but also nice to have size across the board.
Big games this year: Opener against rival Bradwell always is one that we get up for. You want to be able win the first one but it’s always good to beat the cross town rival. Thomson, Burke, Wayne are all going be tough but we have them at home this season which is good. Benedictine is coming off an AA State Championship
Players to watch this season (name/position/class): DB Richard LeCounte, RB Jacquez Williams, LB Jaccari Roberts, LB Calvin Holmes, DB Martial Washington, QB Jaalon Frazier
College prospects: DB Richard LeCounte, RB Jacquez Williams, LB Jaccari Roberts, LB Calvin Holmes, DB Martial Washington
Returning Offensive Starters: QB Jaalon Frazier, RB Jacquez Williams, WR Eddie Baker, OL Richard Dowers
Returning Defensive Starters: – DL DaShaun Hudson, DL Tremal Walthour, DE Jeremiah Gilbert, LB Tucker Lyda, LB Jacari Roberts, LB Calvin Holmes, DB Tracy White, DB Richard LeCounte
Team Schedule:
8/14 7:30 PM @South Effingham (Scrimmage)
8/21 7:30 PM @ Effingham County
8/28 7:30 PM @ Bradwell Institute
9/04 7:30 PM @ MCA
9/11 7:30 PM @ Benedictine
9/18 7:30 PM Monroe Area HS
9/25 7:30 PM Wayne County
10/09 7:30 PM Burke County
10/16 7:30 PM Thomson
10/23 7:30 PM @Windsor Forest
11/06 7:30 PM @ Richmond Hill
Wayne County Yellow Jackets
Region: 3-AAAA
Overall record last year: 6-6
Region record last year: 4-0
Coach’s name: Jody Grooms
Years at this school: 5
Coach’s record: 96-60
Stadium name/Capacity: Jaycees /7,000
Highlights from last year: Winning Region Title
In a few sentences, what is your outlook for this season?
Should be strong again defensively. 8 starters return from last year. Jeremiah Littles and Caleb Martin will anchor a strong defensive unit. Offensively, we will need consistency at QB and we need a playmaker to emerge at the WR position
Top rusher last year: Anfernee Jordan
Top passer last year: Nick Belz
Top receiver last year: Kody Washington
Leading tackler last year: Jeremiah Littles
Strengths: Secondary, DL, OL, and the LB position
Weaknesses: Inexperience at RB and WR
Big games this year: Burke, Thomson, Liberty
Players to watch this season (name/position/class):
Jeremiah Littles (Senior, LB), Caleb Martin (Senior, LB), Tarrence Bennett (Junior, DB), Kevin Wyatt (Junior, DB), Kendall Henderson (Junior, DL), Isaiah Kincade (Junior, DB), Cameron Padgett (Junior, OL), Clark Wingate (Senior, OL), Seth Clary (Senior, QB)
College prospects: Caleb Martin, Jeremiah Littles, Clarke Wingate, Joseph White, Ja’lon Williams
Returning Offensive Starters:7
Returning Defensive Starters:8
Top academic seniors and their GPA: Caleb Martin 3.8, Seth Clary 3.9, Joseph White 3.8
Who has been the most improved player since last season? Kevin Wyatt
Team Schedule:
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08/21 TBA |
Glynn Academy (Brunswick, GA) Location: Wayne County High School |
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08/28 TBA |
Appling County (Baxley, GA) Location: Wayne County High School |
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09/04 TBA |
Statesboro (Statesboro, GA) Location: Wayne County High School |
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09/11 TBA |
Oakleaf (Orange Park, FL) Location: Wayne County High School |
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09/18 TBA |
@ Camden County (Kingsland, GA) Location: Camden County High School |
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09/25 TBA |
@ Liberty County (Hinesville, GA) Location: Liberty County High School |
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10/02 TBA |
@ Benedictine (Savannah, GA) Location: Benedictine High School |
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10/09 TBA |
Windsor Forest (Savannah, GA) Location: Wayne County High School |
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10/23 TBA |
@ Thomson (Thomson, GA) Location: Thomson High School |
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10/30 TBA |
Burke County (Waynesboro, GA) |
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Class AAA
Pierce County Bears
Blackshear, GA
Region 1-AAA (Div. A)
Overall record last year: 10-3
Region record last year: 4-2
Coach Sean Pender
14th year as a head coach, 5th at PCHS
Coach’s record: 77-63-1 overall, 38-10 at PCHS
Stadium name/Capacity: Bear Stadium (3,200)
Highlights from last year:
The Bears advanced to the state quarterfinals last season, making that claim for just the third time in school history, and the first time since 1994. PCHS also hosted a school record eight home games and ran the table at the friendly confines in Bearville. However, the Blue & Silver won just twice on the road, with one of those victories an overtime thriller against Jenkins. In 2015 PCHS won 10 games for the third straight season.
What is your outlook for this season?
“In summer workouts, we followed this famous football quote: ‘The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.’ This is the mindset we have to be in,” said Pender. “Everybody raises their hand when asked if they want to win, but we have to be prepared to answer the question ‘What are we willing to do to get to where we want to be?’”
Gone from last season:
Offensively, the Bears lost three-year starting center Madison Tuten up front, along with All-State receiver Terrell Carter, who had a school record 80-plus catches. The backfield tandem of Josh Henderson (All-State) and Michael Bush, which tallied more than 2,100 yards and 20 touchdowns, also moved onto the college ranks. Defensively, the Bears graduated Marquise Foreman, Jeremiah Davis, and Joshua McDay from the secondary as well as linebackers Caleb Turner (All-State) and Rhett Veal.
Returning from last year’s team:
Junior Stetson Bennett returns at quarterback to direct an offense that averaged nearly 37 points per game. Senior Blake Chancey brings talent and experience to the receiving ranks. Senior Clay Denison shifts to center, where he’ll anchor an offensive line that also returns senior Jonathan New and juniors Kole Kicklighter and Cole Crosby. The Bears welcome back seniors Trae Kicklighter, Brit Williamson and Seth Bryant on the defensive line, junior Ben Aldridge in the middle, and junior Leroy Mason in the secondary while senior Logan Paul returns in a hybrid role. Punter Cooper Saussy, a junior, returns on special teams.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses:
“Our returning veterans at quarterback and on the offensive and defensive lines make those positions areas of strength,” said Pender. “Youth and inexperience everywhere else are factors right now that we’ll have to overcome.”
Big games this year:
“The first game of the season is always tough because it shows us where we are physically,” said Pender. “Plus, it’s a region game and this time it’s at Southeast Bulloch. I don’t think we can afford to look beyond that.”
Players to watch this season:
Ben Aldridge (Junior, LB), Stetson Bennett (Junior, QB), J.J. Bethea (Junior, WR), Blake Chancey (Senior, WR), Quashawn Connoway, (Soph. WR), Clay Denison (Senior, OL), Chase Royer, Junior, WR), Lafallen Taylor (Soph., RB), Mark West (Senior, LB), Brit Williamson (Senior, DL)
2015 Pierce Co. Football Schedule
Aug. 14 Charlton Co. (Scrimmage)
Aug. 28 @ Southeast Bulloch
Sept. 4 @ Bacon Co.
* Sept. 11 Cook
Sept. 18 Jenkins
Sept. 25 OPEN
*Oct. 2 @ Brantley Co.
*Oct. 9 Tattnall Co.
*Oct. 16 @ Toombs Co.
*Oct. 23 Appling Co.
*Oct. 30 @ Dodge Co.
Nov. 6Region Play-in
* = Region 1A-AAA Games
Appling County Pirates
Region:AAA-1
Overall record last year:8-4
Region record last year: 4-2
Coach’s name: J.T. Pollock
Years at this school: 10
Coach’s record: 81-43-2
Stadium name/Capacity: Jimmy Swain/ 5,000
Highlights from last year: Big win over Pierce County, Come from behind win over SEB in region playoff, Upset win over Peach Co in State Playoffs.
In a few sentences, what is your outlook for this season?
Replace 24 seniors, many rookies must mature physically and emotionally. Fewer players equal more kids playing both ways, must get in good shape. All depends on how the young players react. Top rusher last year: Cassisus Frederick
Top passer last year: Vernon Dasher
Top receiver last year: Brandon Jones
Leading tackler last year: Steven Newkirk
Strengths: Got a few kids who can run.
Weaknesses: Inexperience, strength, numbers, size.Big games this year: All of them.
Players to watch this season (name/position/class):
Steven Newkirk, Allen Williams, Keelan Crosby, Devon Moore, Japheth Morris, Jeremy Norris, Al Lewis, Justin Young,
College prospects: Allen Williams, Jeremy Norris, Colin Haddock, Keelan Crosby, Devon Moore
Returning Offensive Starters: Joe Hill, Justin Young, Steven Newkirk, Devon Moore, Japhehth Morris
Returning Defensive Starters: Jetoine Jones, Henry Dasher, Chris Sanders
Team Schedule:
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08/28 TBA |
@ Wayne County (Jesup, GA) Location: Wayne County High School |
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09/04 TBA |
@ Jenkins (Savannah, GA) Location: Jenkins High School |
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09/11 TBA |
@ Tattnall County (Reidsville, GA) Location: Tattnall County High School |
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09/18 TBA |
Beach (Savannah, GA) Location: Appling County High School |
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09/25 TBA |
Toombs County (Lyons, GA) Location: Appling County High School |
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10/09 7:30p |
@ Dodge County (Eastman, GA) Location: Dodge County High School |
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10/16 7:30p |
Cook (Adel, GA) Location: Appling County High School |
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10/23 TBA |
@ Pierce County (Blackshear, GA) Location: Pierce County High Schoo |
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10/30 TBA |
Brantley County (Nahunta, GA) Location: Appling County High School |
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Toombs County Bulldogs
Bulldogs Continue to Rebuild
Region 1-AAA
Overall record last year: 2-8
Region record last year: 2-6
Coach’s name: Lyman Guy
Years at this school: 2nd year as Head Coach
Coach’s record: 73-62
Stadium name: Booster Stadium
Summary of last year:
It was tough going for Toombs County in 2014. It was Coach Lyman Guy’s first season in Lyons and the Bulldogs were 2-8 including a seven game losing skid to end the season. “Even though we had a dismal season the players showed up each week ready to play,” said Coach Guy. Toombs County has not been to the playoffs since 2008 and the the six year drought will be tough to snap. Region 1-AAA contains 13 schools with teams like Cook County, Pierce County, Dodge County and Appling County leading the way, it is tough to crack the top four for a playoff berth.
What is your outlook for this season?
“The team’s overall strength and conditioning has improved greatly. We should show vast improvement all the way around the ball with a full off season and second year in the system,” Coach Guy says. Learning a new system takes time and Coach Guy is confident that the second year will see players become more confident.
Gone from last year’s team:
Toombs County will be losing 10 players from last year’s team to graduation including top rusher Jamar Smith who led the offense. Also gone will be top receiver Nathaniel Baker and defensively the Bulldogs will be without leading tackler Darius Scott.
Returning from last year’s team:
Coach Lyman Guy has seven returners on offense and five on defense coming back to form a solid nucleus. Among those returning is last season’s leading passer Dalton McBride. The defense will be bolstered by seniors Alex Ashley and Brandon Chubb. Offensively, quarterback Hordan Usher will be throwing to Nathan Belch and Andre Clark.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
Among the team’s strengths this season are the effects of the strength and conditioning program which has helped to make the Bulldogs faster and stronger. Weaknesses include inexperience. The team will be fairly young with only a handful of upper classmen,” Coach Guy said.
Big games this year:
The annual inter-county rivalry against the Vidalia Indians. The Bulldogs will face their arch-rival on September 4, visiting Buck Cravey Field for this year’s edition of the showdown.
Players to watch this season:
Jordan Usher (Senior, QB)
Alex Ashley (Senior, DB)
Nathan Belch (Senior, WR)
Andre Clark (Senior, WR)
Brandon Chubb (Senior, LB)
Team Schedule:
August 14 Bradwell Institute (scrim)
August 21 Emanuel County Institute (scrim)
August 28 Johnson High School
September 4 Vidalia High School
September 10 Beach High School
September 25 Appling County High School
October 2 Dodge County High School
October 9 Cook County High School
October 16 Pierce County County High School
October 23 Brantley County High School
October 30 Tattnall County High School
November 6 Region Cross Over
Brantley County Herons
Region: 1AAA
Coach’s name: Mark Walker
Years at this school: 15 (6th as head coach)
Coach’s record: 14-36
Stadium name/Capacity: Caney Bay
In a few sentences, what is your outlook for this season? to be competitive
Top rusher last year: Levi Chesser
Top passer last year: Anthony Turlington
Top receiver last year: James Morgan
Leading tackler last year: Kole Clark
Strengths: Linebackers
Weaknesses: Experience level at OL
Big games this year: All
Players to watch this season (name/position/class): Mikel Collins QB, James Morgan WR
College prospects: Mikell Collins James Morgan
Top academic seniors and their GPA: James Morgan, Hunter Kimbrell
Returning Offensive Starters: Mikel Collins, Kole Clark, James Morgan, Levi Chesser, Hunter Kimbrell
Returning Defensive Starters: Mikel Collins, Kole Clark, James Morgan, Levi Chesser, Hunter Kimbrell, Tyler Daniels, Garrett Able, Austin Jordan, Jay Young, Luke Hutto, Casey Comer
Who has been the most improved player since last season? Luke Hutto
Tattnall County Battle Creek Warriors
Battle Creek Warriors Look Strong in 2015
Region 1-AAA
Overall record last year: 5-5
Region record last year: 4-5
Coach’s name: Jeff Kaiser
Years at this school: 10th year as Head Coach
Coach’s record: 52-44
Stadium: Warrior Stadium
Summary of last year:
2014 was a tough year for the Battle Creek Warriors but it did have its high points. “We finished the season on a high note, winning our last two ball games,” says Coach Jeff Kaiser. Tattnall also started the season with back to back victories before struggling at the mid-way point. Just one more win and the Warriors would have qualified for the playoffs for the first time in two years.
What is your outlook for this season?
“We are very excited about the upcoming season. We have a lot of guys returning who played significant roles last year. Our guys have really worked hard in the weight room and we have one of our strongest teams that we have had here.”
Gone from last year’s team:
The toughest loss from last year’s team is 2014’s leading passer Nate Smith who graduated. Tattnall loses a total of 12 starters from last season.
Returning from last year’s team:
The Battle Creek Warriors have a strong nucleus returning including top rusher Darius Mincey, leading receiver Tyrin Holder and defensive leader CJ Brown. Ten starers return along with several underclassmen that are expected to make a big impact this year.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
Coach Kaiser said the team should be strong in the trenches this season. “Our lines of scrimmage should be better than they have been in several years and our defense returns several players that should help us play much better defensively.” He lists weaknesses as the quarterback position where they have to replace an experienced signal-caller. “We will be breaking in a couple of new young QBs that have tremendous upside but are just inexperienced. Another is the fact that we only have 8 seniors so you worry about the leadership of a young team.”
Big games this year:
“All of them,” Coach Kaiser says. Tattnall gets its region slate started on September 11 against an always tough Appling County Pirates squad. Later they play Dodge County, Cook and Pierce in succession.
Players to watch this season:
Darius Mincey (Senior, RB)
CJ Brown (Junior, LB)
Dre’ Johnson (Soph., DB)
Tyrin Holder (Senior, DB)
Raekwon Jackson (Junior, OL)
Team Schedule:
August 28 Long County
September 4 Beach
September 11 Appling County*
September 18 Savannah
September 25 at Dodge County*
October 2 Cook County
October 9 at Pierce County*
October 16 Brantley County*
October 30 at Toombs County*
November 6 Region 1-AAA Play In
Class AA
Long County, Blue Tide
Region: 2-AA
Overall record last year: 3-7
Region record last year: 1-6
Coach’s name: Eric McNair
Years at this school: 4 Asst (OC) First year HC
Coach’s record:0-0
Stadium name/Capacity: Veterans Stadium, 1841
Highlights from last year: Set School rushing record.
In a few sentences, what is your outlook for this season?
We are returning a lot of kids on both sides of the ball. The kids who aren’t returning as starters mostly have seen significant playing time. The boys are energized about the program and working hard. We will be veteran on both sides of the ball and have seen a lot of improvement in some key positions. With the current landscape of the region I think we are in good position to contend for our schools first playoff berth.
Top rusher last year: Brendon Scott
Top passer last year: Brendon Scott
Top receiver last year: Jack Lauver
Leading tackler last year: Mykoel Stanley
Strengths: Veteran on both sides of the ball. Started a lot of underclassmen last two years.
Weaknesses: Depth
Big games this year: All games are big games for us. We don’t overlook anyone
Players to watch this season (name/position/class):
Brendon Scott (Senior, QB), Jaquarius Harrison (Senior, RB), Darvis Holmes (Senior, HB), Elijah Wright (Junior, WR), Jonathon Holton (Junior, OL/DL), Jamin Davis (Junior, OLB), Tariq Carpenter (Junior, SS), Antonio Taylor (Senior, LB), Keyshawn Wagner (Senior, LB) College prospects: Brendon Scott, Darvis Holmes, Jamin Davis, Jonathon Holton
Returning Offensive Starters: Brendon Scott, Jaquarius Harrison, Jack Lauver, Darvis Holmes, Jonathon Holton, De’Andre Reddick, Reid Goode, Vaughn Kelly.
Returning Defensive Starters: Jamin Davis, Tariq Carpenter, Keyshawn Wagner, Kyree Coprick, Antonio Taylor, Xavier Stapleton.
Top academic seniors and their GPA: Brendon Scott: 3.6
Who has been the most improved player since last season? Jonathon Holton
Please give us the name/school of an eighth grader who is a rising star who could play for you in the future: Deshaun Dixon (RB). Long County Middle School
Team Schedule:
August 14 Claxton (scrimmage)Away7:30
August 28 Tattnall CountyAway7:30
September 4 Open
September 11 MetterAway7:30
September 18* Jeff Davis `Home7:30
September 25* Bacon (RN)Home7:30
October 2* Vidalia Away7:30
October 9 New Hampstead Home7:30
October 16* Groves (HC)Home7:30
October 23* MCA Away7:30
October 30* Bryan Co.Home7:30
November 6* Benedictine (SN)Home7:30
RN – Recreation Night
HC – Homecoming
SN – Senior Night
Jeff Davis Yellow Jackets
Hazlehurst, GA
Region 2-AA
Overall record last year: 4-6
Region record last year: 2-5
Coach Roger Metts
5th year as a head coach, all at JDHS
Coach’s record: 14-26
Stadium name/Capacity: Yellow Jacket Stadium (3,500)
Highlights from last year:
The Jackets beat Long County (24-0) and McIntosh County Academy (13-12) in consecutive weeks in 2014. That pair of region wins equaled the JDHS total from the previous two seasons combined. “We competed better last year than we have in years past and we also played Benedictine better than we have in the past,” said Metts. “Against Bacon, it was a six-point game until the fourth quarter. In a couple other games we had the lead late but put the ball on the ground. The main thing I wanted the kids to do last year was not look at the scoreboard, but to compete every second, every play, every quarter, every game.”
What is your outlook for this season?
“I feel like we’ll be better and that the kids will continue to compete,” Metts said. “There’s a little something different in the air around the field house these days. I’m not having to call kids to see where they are. They are here lifting. Our kids are stronger and have bought into the weight program, and I think we’ll be in games and give ourselves a chance to win more than we have in the past.”
Gone from last season:
The Yellow Jackets graduated three starters on offense: lineman Zack White, running back Wenner Rodgriquez, and wide receiver Jarrod Sims. Defensively, the Jackets lost five to graduation: linemen Nic Crow and Michael Ewing, linebackers Hunter Phillips and Thomas Bush, and safety Kolby Carter.
Returning from last year’s team:
Offensively, junior Jordan Dubberly returns at quarterback. He’ll feed the ball to fullback Garrett Walters and wingback Donald Bonner, both seniors. Seniors Gage Waters and Diany Mitchell return at the tight end post. The interior line includes center Trenton Mathis, guard Dalton Harper, and tackle Matt Waters, all seniors. Walters helps spearhead the defense, where he has led the Jackets in tackles each of the past three seasons from his linebacker post. Greg Waters returns at outside linebacker. Seniors Mitchell and Seth Crews return on the defensive line, with Bonner and fellow senior Keegan Alls back in the secondary.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses:
It’s not uncommon to see guys playing on both side of the ball at JDHS, but some personnel should see some relief this year. “We try to get our best players on the field, but with our linebackers and our offensive and defensive linemen we are going to try to get some more folks out there,” says Metts, citing depth at those positions. “But we’ve got to develop depth in our secondary. That is our biggest spot right now. We lost several kids last year that we’ve got to replace some speed.”
Big games this year:
“Last year ATCO came over here and beat us so that’s going to be big and it will answer some questions for us,” said Metts. “We also have two pre-season scrimmages – against Telfair and Appling – because we didn’t have spring drills. The GHSA gives us an option of holding spring practices or playing an extra fall scrimmage. I hired four new coaches this year and they couldn’t be here in the spring. Plus our quarterbacks this spring were in baseball and at the state track meet. So I like having those two scrimmage games to see where we are.”
Players to watch this season:
Deangelo Adams (Jr., FB), Keegan Alls (Sr., DB), Donald Bonner (Sr., DB/WR), Jordan Dubberly (Jr., QB), John Jackson (Soph., TE/LB), Justin Kight (Jr., WR), Jaylon Kirby (Soph., WR/LB), Trenton Mathis (Sr., OL), Diany Mitchell (Sr., TE/DE), Wyatt Montgomery (Jr., RB), Alex Sanders (Soph., WR/DB), Jeremy Solomon (Jr., CB/WR), Garrett Walters (Sr., FB/LB)
2015 Jeff Davis Football Schedule
Aug. 14 Telfair Co. (Scrimmage)
Aug. 21 @ Appling Co. (Scrimmage)
Aug. 28 Atkinson Co.
Sept. 4 @North Cobb Christian
Sept. 11 @Montgomery Co.
*Sept. 18 Long Co.
*Sept. 25 @McIntosh Co. Academy
Oct. 2 OPEN
*Oct. 9 Benedictine
*Oct. 16 @Bacon Co.
*Oct. 23 Bryan Co.
*Oct. 30 Vidalia
*Nov. 6 @Groves
* = Region 2AA Games
Vidalia High School Indians
Vidalia Wants Two More Games This Year
Region 2-AA
Overall record last year: 12-1
Region record last year: 7-0
Coach’s name: Lee Chomskis
Years at this school: 8
Coach’s record: 63-27 at Vidalia
Stadium name/Capacity: Buck Cravey Field-6000
Highlights from last year:
Vidalia finished the season a perfect 10-0 last year and won the Region 2-AA championship. They defeated eventual state champion Benedictine during the regular season. The Indians then made it to the third round of the state playoffs before falling to Greater Atlanta Christian.
“Winning the region championship, getting to game 13 and watching our team grow and mature,” says Coach Lee Chomskis of last year’s highlights. The Indians have progressed through the playoffs the past three years, making it to the second round twice and the third round last year.
The Indians also took the 11th of the last 13 from archrival Toombs County, and, more importantly, the last six in a row.
What is your outlook for this season?
“We will have to stay healthy and grow up in a hurry in order to have success this season. We have many holes to fill, so many young guys must step up and play,” said Coach Chomskis.
Gone from last year:
Graduation took its toll on the Indians with 12 starters lost from last year’s region championship team including most of its offensive firepower. Gone is top rusher and passer Jordan Black and top receiver Josh Eason. They will be a young team this season and will be looking to young players to mature quickly, but Vidalia High School is known for reloading talent each year.
Returning from last year:
Vidalia has five starters returning on each side of the ball and are led defensively by leading tackler Nathan McBride who is already attracting attention from college scouts as a junior.The 6′-2″ 220-pound linebacker runs a 4.5 40 yard dash and is being recruited by the likes of Alabama, Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Mississippi, Penn State, South Carolina and Stanford. Vidalia will be led Shon Jones and Keshawn WIlliams who return for their senior seasons. Once again, the Indians will be stocked with speed and athleticism at every position.
Big games this year:
“Every game. Region games especially” said Coach Chosmskis. The Indians will face arch-rival Toombs on September 4 and then open region play September 18 against McIntosh County Academy in Darien. Defending state champion Benedictine comes to Vidalia on October 16 followed by a trip to Alma to face Bacon County the following week.
Players to watch this season:
Nathan McBride (Junior, LB)
Samuel Collins (Junior, OL)
Shon Jones (Senior)
Tony Hardy (Junior)
Keshawn Williams (Senior)
Team Schedule for 2015
August 14 @ECI Scrimmage
August 21 Swainsboro
August 28 @West Laurens
September 4 Toombs Co.
September 11 OPEN
September 18 @McIntosh Co. Academy
September 25 Groves (HC)
October 2 Long Co.
October 9 OPEN
October 16 Benedictine (RN)
October 23 @Bacon Co.
October 30 Jeff Davis
November 6 @ Bryan Co.
McIntosh County Academy
Robby Robinson’s Return
Region 2-AA
Overall record last year: 0-10
Region record last year: 0-6
Coach’s name: Robby Robinson
Years at this school: 1st year as Head Coach (7 overall)
Coach’s record: 126-70-1
Stadium name/Capacity: The Ship (2,500)
Summary of last year:
2014 was a low point for McIntosh County Academy. The Buccaneers went winless last season and quickly decided to make a change. They re-hired Robby Robinson to return as head coach after he had been away for four years at Washington-Wilkes. The Buccaneers came within two points of victory on one occasion last season, now Coach Robinson wants to start with just one win.
What is your outlook for this season?
“The only way to go is up after the Bucs finished 0-10 last season. We are rebuilding and will be very young,” Coach Robinson says.
Gone from last year’s team:
Graduated from last season are wide receiver Tre Scott who is playing basketball at the University of Cincinnati, quarterback Brandon Moran and lineman Matt Neiport. MCA loses 17 starters from last year’s team.
Returning from last year’s team:
While the Bucs’ have talented players returning from last season, the big return is Coach Robby Robinson, who was MCA’s head football coach from 2004-2010 and led them to their only three region titles in 2004, 2005 and 2008. In his first stint as MCA coach he had a record of 54-21-1 and the Bucs made the playoffs all seven years he was there. During his previous time at McIntosh County Academy, 26 players signed college scholarships including former University of Miami and current Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Allen Bailey.
The Bucs return five starters from last season: three on offense and two on defense including linebacker Malcolm Myles who is back for his senior season.
Big games this year:
MCA’s schedule for 2014 begins with three tough tests. A visit to AAAAA Brunswick starts ths schedule. In week two the Bucs take on Class A powerhouse Savannah Christian. In week three, MCA travels to AAAA Liberty County before taking a week off. They return to start region play in 2-AA on September 19 against Vidalia followed by Thursday night road games with Jeff Davis and Groves. The Bucs then have a tough three-week home stretch in October against Bryan County, Long County and Benedictine in in Darien. McIntosh closes on the road against Bacon County.
Players to watch this season:
Grayson Hulett OL Sr
Malcolm Myles LB Sr
Devon Williams WR Sr
Team Schedule:
August 21 At Brunswick
August 28 Savannah Christian
September 04 At Liberty County
September 18 Vidalia
September 25 At Jeff Davis
October 08 At Groves (WS)
October 15 Bryan County
October 23 Long County
October 30 Benedictine
November 06 At Bacon County
Bacon County Red Raiders
Alma, GA
Region 2-AA
Overall record last year: 6-5
Region record last year: 5-2
Coach Ken Cofer
6th year as a head coach, 2nd at Bacon
Coach’s record: 38-20 overall, 6-5 at BCHS
Stadium name/Capacity: Red Raider Stadium “The Big Red Monster” (3,200)
Highlights from last year:
Cofer, who became the third BCHS head coach in as many seasons, guided Bacon back to the playoffs in 2014 after a one-year hiatus. The Raiders lost three of their first four games, but won five of the last six. The team also christened a new stadium and set a new standard for offensive scoring in a season with 318 points. “We finally figured out what we could do here,” says Cofer. “I don’t think we played a 4-quarter ball game all year long until Brooks County, but the kids finally bought into the season halfway through the year. We had a 92-yard pass for a touchdown, and a 101-yard interception return for a touchdown, but just finally playing team football was the highlight for me.”
What is your outlook for this season?
“The atmosphere had been just making the playoffs, but we want to make a run in the playoffs,” says Cofer, whose team plays five straight road games this season. “We were down 26-0 to Pierce last year and the kids got fired up and we built off that, but we lost 26-22. And we never want to say a loss is good. God bless our fans, they’re hungry to win. You can’t just keep knocking on the door. Eventually you’ve got to kick that thing down.”
Gone from last season:
The offensive line lost considerable experience with the graduation of Jay Jackson, Trevor Williams, Jeremy Snow, and Mike Restrepo. Graduation also claimed Pasun Sams (WR-OLB), Devonte Batten (DB), and three former all-state players: Droell Green (QB-DB), Tron Folsom (WR-LB), and Anthony Florence (DL).
Returning from last year’s team:
“We lost a little bit of meat on the offensive line, but we think we’re going to be athletic there and have more depth,” says Cofer, who will look to seniors Peter Simmons and Akeem Peterson to provide leadership up front. Sophomores Jesus Brown and Will Richardson also bring experience to the fold. Another veteran, senior Anascio Washington, will help spearhead the receiving corps and the secondary. Aubrey Carter returns for a final season after splitting time at QB last season with Green. Senior Jacob Carver will start once more at running back and linebacker. Other returning linebackers include junior Wesley Cothern and senior Ametrius Williams, a D-1 prospect who will play quarterback, outside linebacker and strong safety for the Raiders.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses:
“Size is one thing to overcome, but I think our strength is decent,” says Cofer. “Overall we’re going to be younger going out there, but that’s just going to be good for our future. This is a very unselfish group and a very coachable group.”
Big games this year:
“The Pierce game is a big rivalry and I finally got a taste of that,” says Cofer. “Charlton County hit us in the mouth last year. And we’ve got to play better against Benedictine. We’re tired of the moral victories.”
Players to watch this season:
Jesus Brown (Soph., OL)
K.J. Brown (Soph., LB/RB/DL)
Aubrey Carter (Senior, QB)
Jacob Carver (Senior, RB/LB)
Wesley Cothern (Junior, LB)
Jorge Lopez (Junior, OL)
Akeem Peterson (Senior, OL)
Will Richardson (Soph., OL)
Peter Simmons (Senior, OL)
Trae Stewart (Junior, WR/DB)
Anascio Washington (Senior, WR/DB)
Ametrius Williams (Senior, QB/LB/DB)
2015 Bacon County Football Schedule
Aug. 14 Atkinson Co. (scrimmage)
Aug. 21 Cairo (scrimmage)
Aug. 28 Lanier Co.
Sept. 4 Pierce Co.
Sept. 11 @ Charlton Co.
*Sept. 18 @ Benedictine
*Sept. 25 @ Long Co.
Oct. 2 OPEN
*Oct. 9 @ Bryan Co.
*Oct. 16 @ Jeff Davis
*Oct. 23 Vidalia
*Oct. 30 Groves
*Nov. 6 McIntosh Co. Academy
* = Region 2-AA Games
Class A
Charlton Co. Indians
Charlton Young But Strong
Folkston, Ga
Region 2-A (Public)
Overall record last year: 10-2
Region record last year: 6-1
Coach Rich McWhorter
25 years as Head Coach, 27 overall
Coach’s record: 261-63-2
Stadium name/Capacity: “The Swamp”/Indian Field. 3,000
Highlights from last year:
Last season was considered successful for Charlton County even though they lost in the second round of the playoffs. The Indians went 9-1 in the regular season and beat arch-rival Clinch County in the Swamp War 23-19. In the first round of the playoffs, Charlton defeated perennial power Lincoln County in overtime. Charlton County finished 10-2 last season and 6-1 in the region.
What is your outlook for this season?
“We have a lot of work to do on the offensive line. Will need a lot of first year starters to step up,” says Coach McWhorter.
Gone from last season:
Top receiver Curt Nixon who had 47 catches for 654 yards and 3 touchdowns was lost to graduation. Also gone is leading tackler Anthony Jackson who had 92 tackles in 2014. Gone from the offensive line is big Levi Cribb who graduated.
Returning from last year’s team:
The Indians’ top rusher Andrew Lee who had 1,465 yards on 205 carries and 19 touchdowns. Lee is being recruited by several Division I schools including the University of Georgia, Clemson, Florida and FSU. Quarterback Jimmy Nettles also returns. Last season he threw for 12 touchdowns completing 108 out of 232 attempts for 12 touchdowns. Charlton returns four offensive starters and five on defense.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses:
The Indians will have a strong defensive line featuring Teon Burroughs, Omar Lewis and Mookie Smith. This will go along with an experienced quarterback and running backs including Sophomore Eric Daniels. At quarterback, Netteles will have plenty of receivers to throw to including seniors Brad Milton and Issac Gillis. Charlton will also have a good placekicker his season in junior Thomas Johnson.
Weaknesses this year include the offensive line, defensive backs and longsnapper.
Big Games this year:
“Every game we play. The Power Rankings make every game important,” Coach McWhorter said. Single A schools are seeded into the playoffs by “power rankings” that determine each team’s position and opponent.
Players to watch this season;
Teon Burroughs (Senior, DL), Eric Daniels (Soph., RB/LB), Andrew Lee (Senior, RB), Omar Lewis (Senior, DL), Mookie Smith (Junior, DL), Thomas Johnson (Junior, PK), Jimmy Nettles (Senior, QB), Brad Milton (Senior, LB/WR), Isaac Gillis (Senior, WR)
2015 Charlton Co. Football Schedule
Aug. 14 @ Pierce Co. SCRIMMAGE 8:00 pm
Aug. 29 (Saturday)Manchester @ Mercer Univ., Macon, GA 5:00pm
Sept. 4 Santa Fe (Alachua, FL)
Sept. 11 Bacon Co.
*Sept. 18@ Atkinson Co.
*Sept. 25@ Turner Co.
*Oct. 2 Irwin Co.
Oct. 9 OPEN
*Oct. 16 @ Wilcox Co.
*Oct. 23 Telfair Co.(HOMECOMING)
*Oct. 30@ Clinch Co.
*Nov. 6 Lanier Co. SENIOR NIGHT
* = Region 2-A Games
Claxton High School Tigers
Region 3-A
Overall record last year: 7-4
Region record last year: 7-2
Coach’s name: Rodrick Williams
Years at this school: 2nd year as Head Coach (14 years at the school)
Coach’s record: 7-4
Stadium name: The Pecan Grove/Bell Memorial Field
Summary of last year:
Coach Rodrick Williams’ first season as head coach at Claxton was a success as the Tigers made the playoffs only to fall by less than a touchdown in the first round. Coach Williams lists his highlights from last year as “making the playoffs and hosting the first round.”
After falling to Metter last year, the Tigers went on a six game winning streak.
Claxton hopes to continue to improve this year with a strong group of team leaders returning.
What is your outlook for this season?
“I am excited to have a more experienced offensive line. We also have a great group of seniors that should lead the way on our team,” says Coach Williams.
Gone from last year’s team:
Last season’s top rusher, Zach Grant, has graduated. Grant ran for 1,496 yards last year. Also gone is top passer Cornelius “Scoota” Taylor and leading tackler Marty Chapel who had 108 tackles in 2014.
Returning from last year’s team:
Claxton will return 13 starters from last season’s playoff team: six on offense and seven on defense. The Tigers have top receiver Darvis Small coming back along with a strong defense and a group of seniors leading the way. Also returning are running back/defensive backs Darnell Williams and Darrell Williams. Austin Beasley will handle duties at quarterback this year.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
Coach Williams lists his strengths this year as his defense and his returning seniors. The Tigers’ weakness this season will be depth with many players going both ways on offense and defense.
Big games this year:
From the opener against rival Metter to the Region 3-A play-in on November 6, all the games on the schedule are important to the Tigers who will also travel to ECI, Savannah Country Day and Savannah Christian. The will host Calvary Day on October 23.
Players to watch this season:
Darvis Small- Athlete/Senior
Darnell Williams- FS and RB/Senior
Wendell Fields- OL and LB/Senior
Darrell Williams- RB and SS/Senior
Syrus Williams- RB and LB/Senior
DJ Brewton- Athlete/Senior
Josh May- CB/Senior
Austin Beasley- LB and QB/Senior
Alfredo Vincente’- OL and DL/Junior
Team Schedule:
August 28 Metter
September 4 Bryan County
September 18 at Emanuel County Institute
September 25 Treutlen
October 2 at Portal
October 9 Jenkins County*
October 16 at Savannah Country Day*
October 23 Calvary Day*
October 30 at Savannah Christian*
November 6 Region 3-A Play In
GISA Schools
Robert Toombs Christian Academy Crusaders
Smith’s Crusaders Strong Again
Region GISA 2-AA
Overall record last year: 10-3
Region record last year: 2-1
Coach’s name: Thomas Smith
Years at this school: Going into 5th year.
Coach’s record: 33-19
McClendon Field Lyons, Ga
Summary of last year:
Coach Thomas Smith’s Robert Toombs Christian Academy Crusaders picked up right where they left off after winning the GISA Class A state title in 2013. Dating back to October 11, 2013, the Crusaders had won a school record 14 in a row. In 2014, RTCA also defeated Pinewood, Bulloch and Trinity in the same season for the first time. They made it to the playoffs and eventually fell to Piedmont Academy. The Crusaders moved up to AA in the GISA but still did well.
What is your outlook for this season?
“We return a good nucleus of starters and role players that will have to take on leadership roles to replace our graduating seniors,” said Coach Thomas Smith.
Gone from last year’s team:
The focal point of the Crusaders’ offense last year has graduated. Rico Rogers rushed for 2,468 yards in 2014. His offensive production will be difficult to replace.
Returning from last year’s team:
RTCA returns 11 starters from last year’s playoff team: seven on offense and four on defense. Back this season is leading passer Brentt Anderson who threw for 875 yards and leading receiver Bryson Davis who had 495 yards. Defensively, last year’s leading tackler Jalen Harris returns. Other players who will make an impact this year are 280-pound offensive lineman Donnie Barrow, defensive lineman Tyler Ray, running back Jalen Harris, receiver Bryson Davis, quarterback Toby Upshaw, receiver Ben Everett, punter Landon James and kicker Joseph Gibase.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths: “We return 4 out of 5 starters on the offensive line and a quarterback who has started since his freshman season. We also return a very good punter and kicker,” Coach Smith says.
Weaknesses: “We must replace 2400 yard rusher Rico Rogers and two out of three in the secondary.”
Big games this year:
Last year the game with Memorial came down to a two-point Crusader’s loss. This season it is the WSAV Blitz Thursday night game of the week being played in Savannah October 1. The season opener at Pinewood will also be a big game this year to go along with region games against David Emanuel and First Presbyterian.
Players to watch this season:
Brentt Anderson (Senior, QB)
Brandon Townsend (Senior, WR)
Frankie Toole (Junior, OLB)
Blake Burkett (Senior, DL)
Will Duval (Soph., DE)
Evan Venable (Soph., LB)
Team Schedule:
August 21 at Pinewood
August 28 Southland
September 4 at Bulloch
September 11 at Heritage
September 18 Trinity Christian School
September 25 Frederica Academy
October 1 at Memorial (WSAV Blitz Thursday night game of the week)
October 16 David Emanuel Academy
October 23 at First Presbyterian Christian Academy
October 30 Windsor
Frederica Academy Knights
Knights Return Strong
Region GISA 2-AAA
Overall record last year: 3-7
Region record last year: 0-4
Coach’s name: Brandon Derrick
Years at this school: 3rd year as Head Coach
Coach’s record: 31-23
Stadium name/Capacity: Candler Complex Capacity: 1,500
Summary of last year:
After winning a state championship in 2012, expectations remained high for the Frederica Academy Knights last year. Under second year head coach Brandon Derrick, the Knights went 3-7 and were winless in the region forcing them to miss the GISA State playoffs for the first time in their brief football history. It was also the first season in their new, larger classification. The Knights had been allowed to play down in single A of the GISA until last season. Then they jumped up to AAA where the schools are larger and the opposition tougher. Their current region includes state runner-up Pinewood Christian Academy. Despite the new alignment, the Knights came within an overtime loss to Trinity Christian School (Dublin) of making the playoffs last season.
What is your outlook for this season?
“We are going to be very young and inexperienced, but we could be very talented if we are able to stay healthy all season long. So far, our senior leadership has been solid and the kids have been working really hard in the offseason.”
Gone from last year’s team:
The Knights lost a lot of senior experience from last season. They lose eight starters: four on offense and four on defense.
Returning from last year’s team:
The Knights will be strong on offense with the return of Hollis Veal at running back. Last year he scored 17 touchdowns and set a school record with 1,293 yards rushing. Also returning is quarterback Nick Harrison and sophomore kicker John Mitchell Brock.
Team strengths and weaknesses:
Coach Derrick lists his strengths this season as his offensive and defensive lines which look to be strong. Weaknesses are the lack of experience on the team with eight starters gone.
Big games this year:
All of the GISA Region 2-AAA games which begin October 2 at home against Trinity Christian School (Dublin) and continue through the next three games with road games against state runner-up Pinewood Christian and Edmund Burke Academy. Then there are tough games against Tift Area, Valwood, Robert Toombs Christian and Bulloch
Players to watch this season:
Hollis Veal – RB/DB/Sr.
Dawson Covington – OL/DE/Sr.
Ty Gardner – OL/DT/Sr.
Austyn Skelton – OL/DT/Jr.
Will Sandridge – OL/DT/Jr.
Dalton Croft – OL/LB/Jr.
Luckett McKeown – WR/DB/Jr.
Cameron McClellan – FB/LB/Soph.
Tyler Pierce – OL/DE/Soph.
Gaven Williams – QB/Fr.
Jashawn Sheffield – RB/DB/Fr.
Jaylin Simpson – WR/DB/Fr.
Patrick Brunson – WR/DB/Fr.
Team Schedule:
August 28 St Andrews
September 4 Tiftarea
September 11 at Valwood
September 18 at Bethesda
September 25 RTCA
October 2 Trinity Christian School
October 9 at Pinewood
October 16 Bulloch
October 23 at Edmund Burke Academy
October 30 Monsignor Donovan
