A Bear of a player dream 16 Burke County’s Donquell Green is among the area’s best
‘It’s in my blood’ Another Leonard leads Aquinas
South Aiken’s comeback kid US L P
Team capsules, schedules for 45 high schools
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 2
georgia Aquinas.............................5 Burke County..................33 Butler..............................33 Cross Creek....................35 Evans..............................35 Glenn Hills......................35 Greenbrier......................35 Grovetown......................35 Harlem............................35 Hephzibah......................35 Jefferson County.............35 Josey..............................35 Lakeside...........................9 Laney..............................33 Lincoln County................35 Richmond Academy........37 Screven County..............37 Swainsboro.....................37 Thomson.........................37 Warren County................37 Washington County........37 Washington-Wilkes.........38 Westside.........................38
dream 16 The area’s top players display qualities of their team mascots
south carolina
TODD BENNETT/STAFF
game reports High school coaches are encouraged to report their scores and statistics after contests. Please call (706) 823-3349 or (706) 823-3224.
the blitz Watch our video show, The Blitz, which features teams to watch and key games each week, at augustachronicle.com/blitz.
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Reach John Boyette at (706) 823-3337 or john.boyette@augustachronicle.com.
photography from Jon-Michael Sullivan and the excellent stories from Wayne Staats. Each week The Augusta Chronicle will deliver a package of stories and information, in print and online, on high school football. That includes weekly statistics, a player of the week, a power poll that recognizes the top teams, and predictions for the top games. Not to mention stories, photos and videos from across the area each Friday night.
Aiken...............................38 Barnwell..........................38 Blackville-Hilda...............38 Fox Creek.......................38 McCormick......................38 Midland Valley.................38 North Augusta...................7 Ridge Spring-Monetta.....38 Silver Bluff.......................39 South Aiken....................31 Strom Thurmond.............39 Wagener-Salley..............39 Williston-Elko..................39
independent Augusta Christian........... 11 Augusta Prep..................39 Brentwood .....................39 Briarwood ......................39 Curtis Baptist..................39 Edmund Burke . .............39 Thomas Jefferson...........39 Wardlaw..........................39 Westminster....................39
A Bear of a player dream 16 Burke County’s Donquell Green is among the area’s best
‘It’s in my blood’ Another Leonard leads Aquinas
South Aiken’s comeback kid US PL
Team capsules, schedules for 45 high schools
on the cover Burke County QB Donquell Green. Photo: Jon-Michael Sullivan/Staff
Sunday, August 25, 2013
on twitter
from the sports editor Are you ready for some football? The Augusta Chronicle certainly is. We’ve brought back our prep football preview section this year, and inside you’ll find something on every team in the greater Augusta area. We’re especially proud of our annual Dream 16 project that identifies the top football talent from our area. This year, we’re devoting a full page to each player. Don’t miss the great
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Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 4
New head man is grandson of the first coach at Aquinas By Wayne Staats Staff Writer
Coaching tree Denny Leonard, who passed away when his grandson, James, was an adolescent, coached Boys Catholic and then Aquinas from 19461966. He went 66-119-14, but his teams often played bigger schools, including the traditional Thanksgiving game with Richmond Academy. He had nine children, and one played for him. Others, like James’ father, were ball boys for camps or attended games. Denny Leonard came from Savannah, Ga., where he played football for Benedictine. He then played at the University of Miami (Fla.), and after World War II came to Boys Catholic (later renamed Aquinas), where he coached football, basketball and baseball. “I can’t do that,” James Leonard said. No, but Leonard is keeping his duties as girls soccer head coach. This spring, the Lady Irish reached the state semifinals. At the same time, the football team was in the middle of spring practice. Leonard led that too, as former head coach Matt LeZotte accepted an assistant coaching position at Wayne County. Leonard walked between both practices, though he gave all the credit to the other coaches. Leonard wound up getting the football job, keeping the position in the Fighting Irish family. Assistant Mike Laney, who coached Leonard at Aquinas, said the current coaches wanted someone in house to get the head job. “It’s like the prodigal son has come home – the return of the native,” Laney said. “I think he’s going to be a hell of a coach.” Leonard takes over for LeZotte, Leonard’s friend
Michael Holahan/Staff
New Aquinas head coach James Leonard is seen with a portrait of the first coach at the school – his grandfather Denny Leonard. James succeeds Matt LeZotte as coach of the Irish, and at age 26, is the youngest coach on the entire Fighting Irish staff.
and former youth swim coach. LeZotte went 17-7 his last two years as coach, taking the program to unprecedented heights. In 2011, the Irish played host to a state playoff game and won a playoff game for the first time on the way to the quarterfinals. Now it’s time for more. “It was something he was ready for in his career,” LeZotte said. “He has been the best student of the game that we had on the staff all of the years that I was there. His deep down desire to be a better coach, day in and day out, has paid dividends in the past and it will as a coach. He’s very hungry. He’s not satisfied with the success we had. “He really is one of the reasons that I got started at Aquinas. We’ve been close. We have a brother relationship. I consider him like that.”
Always Irish Leonard played football through his sophomore year
of high school, but he got sick after that. Leonard is missing a major artery, so his days of playing contact sports were finished. He’s been on blood thinners since. Jim Connor, then Aquinas’ head coach who is now a Leonard assistant and father figure, told Leonard to play tennis and also put him on staff after he returned from the hospital. Leonard started by filming the games. As a senior, Leonard helped Connor handle the headset – Connor hated wearing one and still does, Leonard said – and relayed information. When Leonard found out he got the gig, he made sure Connor was the first coach to stay with him. Leonard graduated from Aquinas in 2005 and later graduated from Augusta State. But he’s been an Irish staffer since he was 16, coaching different positions for the junior varsity, then varsity positions. He became defensive coordinator and then assistant head coach.
Now, he’s the head coach. “It’s all I’ve ever known, really,” Leonard said. “It’s like I never left. Once you get it into your system, you can’t get it out.”
Show of support Leonard’s grandfather saw him play for Aquinas in seventh grade. He was also always there for Leonard’s soccer games. Leonard was introduced to the sport thanks to his mother, who is from England. “He would force himself to come watch us play soccer at the Y,” Leonard recalled fondly. “I just remember, it was me, my brother, my cousin. He would tell us after the game what we’d be good at in football. He’d always tell me I’d be a good lineman. David was fast – he’d be a good tailback. Adam would be a good wide receiver.” Leonard didn’t hear many football stories about his grandfather directly from the source. His grandfather was a humble man and he didn’t
REGION: GHSA 7-A COACH: James Leonard 2012: 8-3, Class A private first round KEY PLAYERS: Jr. ATH Ruben Garnett; Sr. RB John Morris; Sr. TE/WR Chris Lambert; Sr. DB Antonio Clark; Jr. WR Daniel Lindsey OUTLOOK: A quick look at the team will reveal both star RB/ LB Brendan Douglas and head coach Matt LeZotte are gone. Douglas is gone to play at Georgia and LeZotte is now an assistant at Wayne County. But first-year head coach James Leonard and the staff have the players needed for a big season, with Morris and Garnett providing a thunder-and-lightning combo at RB. Schedule
Aug. 23 East Laurens 7:30 Sept. 6 G. Walton Acad. 7:30 Sept. 20 at Josey 7:30 Sept. 27 at Twiggs County 7:30 Oct. 4 at Hancock Central 7:30 Oct. 11 at Lincoln County 7:30 Oct. 18 Wilkinson County 7:30 Oct. 25 at Warren County 7:30 Nov. 1 Ga. Military Coll. 7:30 Nov. 8 First Presbyterian 7:30
talk about it much. But Leonard’s heard through his family and all the people texting or calling to congratulate him. The more he’s heard, the more it’s sounding like the same man is back as the leader of the Irish. “I heard he was pretty tough. And kids say I’m pretty tough, so I guess that’s one,” Leonard said. This school year, Leonard will teach mostly PE/health, with two history periods included on his schedule. That’s two. “That’s what he did, teaching the exact same thing,” Leonard said. “It’s almost like a big old circle.” Reach Wayne Staats at (706) 823-3425 or wayne.staats@augustachronicle.com.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
When Aquinas turns on its new lights for the season opener, a 26-year-old new head coach will pace the sidelines. But the past is never far from the school. It might even be as close as in a pocket. James Leonard, the man with the pocket keepsake, is not only the new head coach, he’s also the youngest coach on the Aquinas football staff. Inside his pocket is a photo with a quote from Denny Leonard – Aquinas’ first head coach, who was Leonard’s grandfather. The quote is how Denny Leonard thought starting a seventh and eighth grade program was the best thing Aquinas did. Denny Leonard later watched James play for Aquinas in seventh grade. The laminated piece has a home on Leonard’s person every Friday night. It’s even been accidentally washed a couple of times. But it doesn’t stop there. Leonard’s phone’s background is of his grandfather. His Facebook profile picture was at one point as well. There are more pictures Leonard hung up in his classroom. For the first time since the 1966 season, a Leonard is in control of the Aquinas football program. Not that the Leonards have stayed away. Chances are there’s at least one player or cheerleader for Aquinas every season. Next year, Denny Leonard’s first great-grandchild will play for Aquinas. “It’s stayed in the family. There’s always been some kind of Leonard involved in the team,” Leonard said. “It’s in my blood, I guess.”
Aquinas Fighting Irish
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Irish keep it in the family for coach
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 6
By David Lee Staff Writer
– Dan Pippin, North Augusta coach
North Augusta Yellow Jackets REGION: SCHSL 5-AAAA COACH: Dan Pippin 2012: 9-4, Class AAAA Division II second round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. DL D.J. Young; Sr. WR/ DB Keyon West; Sr. OL Jake Whitley; Sr. OL/DL Brandon Maddox; Sr. WR Antaun Andrews OUTLOOK: North Augusta’s win totals the past four seasons look like this: 11, 12, 12 and 9. The Yellow Jackets lost by only two points to eventual champion Greenwood in 2012, so North Augusta isn’t far off from competing for it all. The lines should be formidable and QB Trib Reece has a strong arm, so there are pieces in place for another great season. Schedule
Michael Holahan/Staff
North Augusta defensive coordinator Derrick Quinn (center) knows his unit will be the key to playoff success.
simple, especially playoff time, is give our offense a chance to win. Stop scores, but if we give up scores, we have to react and play better next time. Everybody is going to score. Our job in the play-
offs is give our team a chance to win, period.” The Yellow Jackets are confident their defense will give them a chance for a deep playoff run this season. Seven starters are returning, and
Quinn said experience and leadership will be strengths. Pippin says the defense will also have speed and athleticism. Senior linemen D.J. Young and Brandon Maddox, and
senior defensive back Keyon West, are expected to lead a defense that Pippin said is fast and strong. “They pick up stuff so easy, because most have been in the program since
Aug. 23 T.L. Hanna Aug. 30 at Midland Valley Sept. 6 at Greenbrier Sept. 13 Grovetown Sept. 20 at Sumter Sept. 27 Strom Thurmond Oct. 11 Lexington Oct. 18 at White Knoll Oct. 25 South Aiken Nov. 1 at Aiken Nov. 8 Dutch Fork
7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30
their freshman year,” Quinn said. “What we’ve got to do is work as a team to get better, and don’t be satisfied.” Reach David Lee at (706) 823-3216 or david.lee@augustachronicle.com.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
NORTH AUGUSTA — The Yellow Jackets continue to churn out quality athletes with loud skills, especially on the offensive side of the ball. But head coach Dan Pippin feels the defense doesn’t get enough respect for matching the offense’s skill level over the past few years. Over the past four seasons, including playoffs, North Augusta is 44-10. In each of those 10 losses, the Yellow Jackets allowed 28 or more points. The coaching staff is quick to point out the level of competition North Augusta faced in those losses. In that same period, the Yellow Jackets have lost to two eventual state champions and one state runner-up. Each playoff exit came at the hands of Greenwood or Goose Creek. “I think a lot with us is, when we have high-scoring games in the playoffs, we’ve been getting beat by state champions,” Pippin said. “I think offensively we’re getting the ball in a bad situation at times. I think our defense doesn’t get the credit it deserves. Last year, we gave up like 13 points a game, and if we continue to do that, we’re going to win a lot of football games.” The Yellow Jackets had an average point differential of 20 points in their favor, which led to an 8-3 regular-season record. The three years before that produced a similar point differential with better records, recording just one loss in each regular season between 2009-11. Each season also produced a similar ending, losing in the playoffs in high-scoring games. “In the playoffs, everyone has great offenses,” North Augusta defensive coordinator Derrick Quinn said. “People are going to score, especially in AAAA, they’re going to score. Our job, very
“I think our defense doesn’t get the credit it deserves. Last year, we gave up like 13 points a game, and if we continue to do that, we’re going to win a lot of football games.”
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Jackets’ hopes will hinge on defense
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 8
By Chris Gay
Lakeside Panthers
Staff Writer
REGION: GHSA 2-AAAAA COACH: Jarrett Troxler 2012: 5-6, Class AAAAA first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. WR Jonathan Edwards; Sr. QB Hunter Banks; Sr. DL Kendall White; Jr. WR/DB Stephen Houzah; Jr. RB Josh Jones; Jr. DB Rashad Roundtree OUTLOOK: In 2012, a young Panthers’ squad advanced to the state playoffs for the third time in four seaons. The Panthers won four of their past six regular season games. A fast start and a tougher defense could pay dividends. Schedule
Emily Rose Bennett/Staff
Lakeside coach Jarrett Troxler will also serve as the team’s defensive coordinator this season after ex-defensive coordinator Kenneth Baker resigned the day before spring practice began to become a Berry College assistant.
Aug. 30 at Statesboro 7:30 Sept. 6 Thomson 7:30 Sept. 20 Westside 7:30 Sept. 28 at N’side-War. Rob. 7:30 Oct. 4 at Grovetown 7:30 Oct. 11 Houston County 7:30 Oct. 18 Greenbrier 7:30 Oct. 25 at Jones County 7:30 Nov. 1 at Evans 7:30 Nov. 8 Warner Robins 7:30
“If you get a bunch of kids who believe in your system and they’ll run to the ball and they’ll be excited about playing defense, you’re going to be good.” – Jarrett Troxler, Lakeside coach
school history, allowing just 39 points through 11 games. The Panthers advanced to the second round of the playoffs for the first time, losing to Westside-Macon 48-21. “That defense was special because they played so hard,” Troxler said. “Of course we were sound in scheme. But if you get a bunch of kids who believe in your system and they’ll run to the ball and they’ll be excited about playing defense, you’re going to be good.” This year’s defense, led by Raymond, senior linebacker Daniel Cotty, senior
defensive end Kendall White and junior safety Rashad Roundtree, is looking to play like the one in 2009 instead of the one last year. Cotty said he’s been encouraged by the 50-60 players who regularly attended summer weight-room workouts. “When we played teams like Northside (WarnerRobins) or Warner Robins, physically we couldn’t hang with them,” Cotty said. “So we put an emphasis on getting stronger and quicker.” Reach Chris Gay at (706) 823-3645 or chris.gay@augustachronicle.com.
Troxler will switch from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4. The Panthers surrendered 26 points per game or more in each of their six losses last season when they finished 5-6.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
The day before spring practice began, Lakeside coach Jarrett Troxler received some unexpected news. Defensive coordinator Kenneth Baker announced he was departing to become the linebackers coach at Berry College. An offensiveminded coach in recent years, Troxler elected to switch to the other side of the ball for this season. “I’ve got a good base of defense,” said Troxler, who worked as a defensive assistant for five years at Anson County High School (N.C.) before becoming the offensive coordinator at Lakeside in 2007. “My experience on defense is what made me a successful offensive coordinator.” After making playoff appearances the past two seasons, Lakeside is looking to break through on the state level. To do so, the Panthers will have to improve on defense. Lakeside went 5-6 last year, giving up 26 or more points in each defeat. All six losses were to teams that advanced to the playoffs. “We had problems stopping the run,” junior cornerback B.J. Raymond said. “This year, we’re faster. We should fly to the ball more. We’re more athletic.” Before Baker departed, Troxler spoke with him about switching from a base 4-3 defense to a 3-4. Troxler said the move makes perfect sense with his team lacking quality depth on the defensive line. “You’ve always got to find that fifth and sixth guy, and it’s tough here,” he said. “We changed because of personnel.” Troxler is reminding his team of the 2009 season, when Lakeside’s defense proved to be the best in
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Panthers’ coach goes on defensive
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 10
By Scott Rouch
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Low-key method works for Walton Columbia County Bureau
Jim Blaylock/Staff
Augusta Christian’s Keith Walton stresses faith, family and future. His Lions were state champions last year.
“I would say we are very unorthodox in what we do,” Walton said. “We only practice offense once a week, we only practice defense once a week. On Thursday, which everybody does walkthroughs, I’m trying to be out by four o’clock.” While he has adjusted his coaching style to fit his players, his philosophy has never wavered. “I told our kids and their parents when I first took the job that it’s going to be faith, family, future, in that order,” Walton said. “For the kids I said friends would come under their future. Football is tied up in friends. It can also be tied up in future. But what happens is you tend to take your future and put it above your faith or put it above your family and you become dysfunctional. We’re not going to do that.” Senior running back Thomas Banks has been with Walton since he took over. “It’s been a great experience and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” Banks said. “He’s just a great guy and a great coach.” Reach Scott Rouch at (706) 863-6165 or scott.rouch@augustachronicle.com.
Augusta Christian Lions REGION: SCISA 1-AAA COACH: Keith Walton 2012: 13-0, won Class AAA state championship KEY PLAYERS: Sr. LB Tyquan Burns; Sr. RB Thomas Banks; Jr. OL Zach Giella; Sr. DB Bryson Ashmore; Sr. C Andrew Gardner OUTLOOK: The Lions lost a number of key pieces from their 2012 championship-winning squad but return almost the entire starting offensive line. With offensive and defensive skill players returning like Thomas Banks, Nick Fortenberry and Kobie Brinson, Walton’s squad should contend for another title in 2013 even with the target now on its back. Schedule
Aug. 30 Wilson Hall 7:30 Sept. 6 at Ben Lippen 7:30 Sept. 13 Cardinal Newman 7:30 Sept. 20 at Fox Creek 7:30 Sept. 27 at Pinewood Prep 7:30 Oct. 4 Laurence Manning 7:30 Oct. 10 at Porter-Gaud 7:30 Oct. 18 Hammond 7:30 Oct. 25 at Heathwood Hall 7:30 Nov. 1 Orangeburg Prep 7:30
Sunday, August 25, 2013
The way head coach Keith Walton runs his football program at Augusta Christian could be described as unique – but it’s hard to argue with the results. The Lions were 5-6 in his first year at the helm in 2009, but their record has improved each year culminating in last year’s 13-0 mark and South Carolina Independent School Association Class AAA state championship. Walton says his system wouldn’t work unless players bought into it. Some things he’s been able to glean from other coaches, like having players take naps, an idea he adapted from Urban Meyer at Ohio State. “During the (2012) state playoffs we went to the elementary campus and went to sleep in the sanctuary of the church and, man, they loved it,” Walton said. Not one to mess with success, naps are on the docket again this year. “I really think those kids would light me up if I didn’t do that,” Walton said. Assistant head coach Charles Cooper has known Walton for 20 years, coached with him for a dozen, and says he wouldn’t want to work for anyone else. “His style is laid-back but very effective,” Cooper said with a laugh. “Most people would see the way he does things, the way he conducts practice and think OK, that’s not going to work, but it works. That’s the thing – it works. He’s very good at learning the temperament of his kids and adjusting his coaching style according to that.” Walton has a different word for the way he does things.
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 12
13 football preview photo illustration jon-michael sullivan
ruben garnett l
Staff Writer
uben Garnett won’t back away from a physical contest. He knows he is going to get hit, and he is prepared to punish those who stand in his way. “With Ruben, everyone knows him for his speed,” Aquinas coach James Leonard said. “But they don’t realize how strong he is. He is very, very strong – one of the strongest guys on the team. On defense, he’s one of our hardest hitters. I think
it clicked in, they had to bulk up their frames to do what we expect them to do this year.” With Brendan Douglas, the powerful runner from a year ago, gone, Garnett will see an increased workload at running back. He gained about 10 pounds, just like backfield mate John Morris, who will also get a chunk of the carries.
VIDEO augustachronicle.com.
On the perfect play, Garnett will get the ball and use his speed and blocking around him to do damage. But not every play will work as planned, and Garnett will take some hits. He is prepared to fight through the pain and bruises. “I knew it when I took my first hard hit in recreation football. I could either stay down or get up and be tough, so I got up,” Garnett said. “I think I have great toughness. You don’t learn toughness. You just have to have it.”
Junior Athlete 5-foot-9 170 pounds
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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Aquinas Fighting Irish
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Jon-Michael Sullivan/staff
thomas banks Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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Staff Writer
homas Banks and the Augusta Christian Lions ruled their domain in 2012. They were the kings of private-school football. Augusta Christian assumed the throne by knocking off six-time defending state champion Hammond, 21-14, to win the SCISA Class AAA state title and cap an undefeated season.
This year, coach Keith Walton decided the team’s motto would be “no pressure, no diamonds.” “He was like, ‘Man, I like that,’ ” Banks said. “I was with him. We heard it on the radio, and he was like, ‘That’s it. That’s going to be our slogan this year.’ To be able to carve a diamond to fit into a ring, it has to have pressure
VIDEO augustachronicle.com.
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on it. We want to put pressure on ourselves so we can carve diamonds.” Banks, a running back, relishes breaking tackles, and he’s ready to extend the Lions’ reign. “I know what I have to do to win. I know what it takes now,” said Banks, whose sights had been on a state title since he was a 9-year-old taking on older, bigger players. “I’ve been there; I’ve done it. I know what we need to do to get deep in the playoffs.”
Augusta Christian Lions Senior Running back/ defensive back 5-foot-10 205 pounds
Burke County Bears Senior Quarterback
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donquell green
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5-foot-9 160 pounds By Wayne Staats Staff Writer
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urke County’s Donquell Green doesn’t have the intimidating size of a bear, but the quarterback’s athleticism makes him plenty scary. Green is physically powerful, which makes him perhaps the most dangerous area player this year. As a junior, he rushed for more than 1,800 yards and passed for almost 1,400 yards. His speed puts opponents on notice, but there’s plenty of fight and strength in him, too. “He’s just so hard to get on the ground,” Bears offensive coordinator Sean Tiernan said. “He’s a small kid, stature-wise, but surprisingly, he’s very difficult to tackle.” When Green thinks his den is getting threatened, he will strike quickly. As a sophomore, Green answered a Gainesville touchdown by returning the ensuing kickoff 90 yards for a score in an eventual state semifinal win. “I enjoy that,” Green said about his ability to score in a hurry. “We have been known as game changers – we change the game real quick. It helps us out a lot. I really enjoy being a part of that.”
JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN/STAFF
augustachronicle.com.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
VIDEO
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION
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jon-michael sullivan/staff
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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Staff Writer
he odds might be against Glenn Hills in some games this season, but Earl Cobb isn’t running away from the difficult battle ahead. The big-play senior and the rest of his class are tasked with helping first-year coach Tim McClain turn around a program that has won only six games the past three seasons. The progress starts with a work ethic
and discipline to mold a player into the perfect warrior: drills, drills and drills. “It’s about more footwork drills and hand-eye coordination drills. I’m working on stuff that I’m weak at,” Cobb said. “I’m just trying to make plays.” Cobb had 800 receiving yards in 2012, a number he wants to increase by at least 200 yards. He also has put in extra time
VIDEO augustachronicle.com.
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with quarterback Santo Nina. Cobb and McClain believe the extra work has prepared the Spartans for battle and given them confidence to be brave in the face of any foe. “I think we can make some noise if we just stay focused,” McClain said. “We have to change the mindset from the past years. It’s about coming in, working hard, doing overtime. The rest of the guys have adopted that work attitude of doing more than is required.”
Glenn Hills Spartans Senior Wide receiver/ defensive back 5-foot-11 190 pounds
17 football preview JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN/STAFF
laderrick hammond By Wayne Staats
Staff Writer
aiting for the battle to begin, LaDerrick Hammond gets into position then looks the enemy in the eyes. The Jefferson County strong safety tries to psych out receivers, chanting and talking to them. Sometimes it works; sometimes it doesn’t. But it always helps Hammond gain courage. “I just think, ‘Don’t get beat.’ And I try to get in their heads. Most don’t listen, but it’s good to do that when you’re a
defensive player. I just talk to them, stuff that you shouldn’t say,” Hammond said with a laugh. Hammond is a warrior. During the week, he listens to his chiefs, including coach J.B. Arnold. Come Friday, the senior is well prepared and ready to help his tribe defend a slant pattern, a lob or a run play. Because he started playing football
VIDEO augustachronicle.com.
in recreation leagues, Hammond has been groomed as a warrior. He’s not afraid of contact or conflict, as the 112 tackles he recorded as a junior prove. A physical player, Hammond is happy to handle the rough hitting and tackling so his team can win the battle. “I learn that from being in it a lot,” Hammond said about being physical. “That carries to me on the field because I’m a very wild person. On the field it helps a lot.”
Jefferson County Warriors Senior Defensive back 6-foot-1 170 pounds
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jonathan edwards Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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Staff Writer
onathan Edwards looks for the weakness. He hunts for the vulnerable spot in a defensive back and pounces on his prey once the ball is snapped. Sometimes, his advantage is simply knowing the defensive back will have to react to the receiver. “Defensive backs are just guessing,” the Panthers’ agile senior said. “And if
they’re slouched over, you can tell they’re tired. You’re just going to blow straight by them. That’s just what happens.” On last year’s playoff team, Edwards had the prowl and growl that made him a threat on offense. He helped Lakeside score at least 34 points in three consecutive region games.
VIDEO augustachronicle.com.
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Edwards will line up at different spots this season, but he prefers wide receiver. He can attack out in the open field and knows when to pounce on the downfield pass. Edwards has the instincts of a predator, but he is not searching for a fight; he’s looking for a meal in the end zone. “You just go for it,” Edwards said. “If you got to get up, you get up.”
Lakeside Panthers Senior Wide receiver/ running back/ defensive back 5-foot-10 180 pounds
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james holmon
By Wayne Staats
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VIDEO augustachronicle.com.
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the next task is to look for a weakness and make a meal of the opposing lineman. By the time the ball is snapped, Holmon is focused on keeping his teammates safe and driving out the other team from his squad’s territory. “That’s your family back there,” Holmon said. “You’ve got to protect them – you don’t want anything to happen to them. That’s how I see it.”
Laney Wildcats Senior Offensive lineman/ defensive lineman 6-foot-5 345 pounds
Sunday, August 25, 2013
ife on the line is like life in the wild. Players must scratch, push and fight to protect their ground. When Laney’s James Holmon is at center, his job is to keep the quarterback safe and to open up lanes for runners. When the Wildcats star is playing defensive tackle, he wants to attack the other team’s pocket.
Sometimes, it’s complete chaos. “It gets really crazy, especially when the game is on the line,” Holmon said. “Everybody is counting on you. It gets real physical down there.” Before each play, every player has a role. Often, it’s to line up against a single player. The hunt for the foe over,
JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN/STAFF
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jon-michael sullivan/staff
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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Staff Writer
ike McIntire gets fired up on Friday nights. The Red Devils’ running back usually has a calm demeanor, but getting pumped up with his teammates helps him bring the fire on the field. “I know right before we go out on the field, everyone starts banging on the doors and starts
getting crazy,” McIntire said. “We’re about to play football – we have to get somewhat crazy. I guess it’s just that adrenaline.” As a junior, McIntire rushed for 1,358 yards and 18 touchdowns as Lincoln County reached the Class A public state semifinals. The senior is a
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physical power runner who runs through players and has a devil of a stiff arm. With McIntire’s strength, tacklers better beware to not cross him. “I just think he’s in the way, so either I’m going to run him over or I’m going to juke him out,” McIntire said. “More than likely I try to run him over.”
Lincoln County Red Devils Senior Running back 5-foot-8 195 pounds
21 football preview
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION
JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN/STAFF
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Staff Writer
eft tackle Jake Whitley and his teammates on the offensive line are like a swarm of bees. In North Augusta’s high-paced attack, great conditioning and communication are imperative, and that cohesiveness helps the group protect the Yellow Jackets’ hive from invaders. “We have to work as one,”
Whitley said. “If one person is off, then the play is messed up. So in practice, that’s all we work on, getting the right blocks and working as one. On Friday nights it comes easy to us.” It has come easy for the Yellow Jackets in recent years. In 2012, North Augusta scored at least 30
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points in a game 10 times, going 9-4. An All-Area pick, Whitley isn’t going to be the one scoring touchdowns, but the senior isn’t too concerned about being the star in a highlight reel. Instead, he works for the good of the hive. “I love watching the running backs run down the sideline after I make a big block,” Whitley said. “It can’t get much better than that.”
Senior Offensive lineman 6-foot-4 295 pounds
Sunday, August 25, 2013
By Wayne Staats
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North Augusta Yellow Jackets
football preview 22 photo illustration
jon-michael sullivan/staff
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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illie Yarbary is a Musketeer, but he doesn’t need a sword to dominate on the football field. Whether he’s lining up at defensive lineman or checking in at tight end, Yarbary uses his size and speed to cut down linemen, stop the quarterback or break away from a defender. “When you play defense, you don’t have to have a lot of rules,” Yarbary said.
“You just have to swarm to the ball and get the ball.” Swashbucklers use their quick feet to gain leverage against opponents. Yarbary has tried to gain that ability by selecting particular teammates to joust with during the week leading up to a game. “When we have practice, I try to go up against, instead of linemen, go against
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Richmond Academy Musketeers
linebackers and special teams guys,” Yarbary said. “It makes it more difficult and it makes me work – it makes me better.” As a sophomore, Yarbary played defensive end and could pass rush from the outside with his speed. As a junior, Yarbary was moved to defensive tackle and could get into the mix inside because of his strength. “He’s strong – extremely strong,” Musketeer coach Chris Hughes said.
Senior Lineman/tight end 6-foot-3 270 pounds
23 football preview jon-michael sullivan/staff
gyasi yeldell l
Staff Writer
here was a time when Gyasi Yeldell was nothing more than a pup who was asked to go up against bigger, more experienced linemen. Since his freshman season, Yeldell has gotten stronger and added about 20 pounds. Maybe the senior Bulldog will be the hound this season. “Being one of the smaller ones as a freshman, it was more of a challenge, playing against juniors and seniors,” Yeldell
said. “Now that I’m a senior, hopefully it’ll be the other way around.” The left tackle/defensive tackle has been an important piece during his time at Silver Bluff, working the line and never getting muzzled by the opposition for long. That includes the 2012 season, when the Bulldogs went 11-2 and advanced to the Class AA, Division II Lower State championship game.
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Whether Silver Bluff will have the bark it had last season remains to be seen, but Yeldell, a first team All-Area defensive selection for South Carolina as a junior, will certainly help. Each season, the two-way starter has gained confidence and added more bite. He gives a lot of credit for his training to coach Al Lown and his staff. “Listening to coaches is important,” Yeldell said. “They teach us all our fundamentals. If we don’t listen to them, we won’t be successful at all.”
Silver Bluff Bulldogs Senior Offensive lineman/ defensive lineman 6-foot-2 240 pounds
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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jon-michael sullivan/staff
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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Staff Writer
ith his high hips and long legs, Rasool Clemons has the impressive size to frighten any challenger. Like a thoroughbred has a long stride, Clemons has a giant wingspan: 6 feet, 11 inches, according to coach Jeremy West. In a game last season, the defensive end recognized a slant play call and
broke it up. “He just stuck his paw up in the air and snatched it,” a chuckling West said. This season, Clemons has put on more than 15 pounds and is more prepared. Clemons thrives on exciting fans. “I like getting the crowd into it,” Clemons said. “When you get a sack or
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a tackle for loss, the crowd gets into it with you.” With Clemons’ skills, the Thoroughbreds are going to ride Clemons as far as he can take them. This season, that includes using him at receiver, where he’s sure to tower over some mismatched defenders. “He’s got huge upside to him,” West said. “His motor never stops. He just makes plays all over the field. He doesn’t stop.”
South Aiken Thoroughbreds Junior Defensive lineman/ wide receiver 6-foot-5 200 pounds
25 football preview jon-michael sullivan/staff
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Staff Writer
t doesn’t really matter what defenses throw at Strom Thurmond’s Jauveer Hammond. He’s a Rebel with a cause. He can pick up big yards and score touchdown after touchdown in the air or on the ground. As quarterback, Hammond is the player everyone notices. All the eyes are on him, but he’s as cool as can be when he’s ready to take the snap. “I love it,” Hammond said. “It’s a lot of pressure. But one thing my mama
taught me, with pressure, you got to fly like an eagle and strive for the best. That’s what I do.” As a junior, Hammond threw for 1,674 yards and rushed for 1,258 yards, leading the Rebels to 11 games of at least 35 points. He’ll stay strong and deliver a pass downfield or he’ll tuck the ball and run. Even as the sport becomes full of dualthreat quarterbacks, Hammond stands
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out. He isn’t just a runner placed at quarterback. He listens to his coaches, soaking in their advice and pointers. When the time comes to hit the field, Hammond doesn’t care what the defense has planned for him. He’s going to cause trouble for them no matter what. “This year, I know some defenses are going to try to attack me because I’m going to be the main topic,” Hammond said. “But whatever the coach tells me to do, I’ll do it.”
Strom Thurmond Rebels Senior Quarterback 5-foot-8 170 pounds
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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jon-michael sullivan/staff
Sunday, August 25, 2013
chris tutt By Wayne Staats
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Staff Writer
hen he needs to be, Chris Tutt is calm and confident in the huddle, sharing advice and keeping his team optimistic with encouraging words. But when it’s time to be a Bulldog, Tutt will change his demeanor. As quarterback, Tutt likes to have the ball in his paws. That means his game has to have some bite,
especially when his teammates need the tough yards. Tutt is a leader of his pack. “I talk to them – I pick them up,” Tutt said. “I tell them everything is going to be all right. ‘Don’t look at the scoreboard. We only have 2 minutes left in the fourth quarter, so we’re going to have to pick up the
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pace. Get ready to score another touchdown to win the game.’ ” Tutt is also fiercely loyal and trusts those around him. He also believes in his fans because he knows they’ll fill the Brickyard on Friday nights. “They back us up,” Tutt said. “They help us out. They come to all of our games and support us. Even though we might not end up with a good season, they’re still there.”
Thomson Bulldogs Junior Quarterback 5-foot-10 190 pounds
27 football preview
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION
JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN/STAFF
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Staff Writer
hen D.J. Sanders thinks he has a chance for an interception, he doesn’t waste any effort – the Golden Hawk flies toward the ball. “When I see the ball in the air and I know it’s close to me, or I think I can get it, I go for it,” Sanders said. The senior star spends time at receiver on offense and defensive back or linebacker on defense. When
he’s on offense, the task is about running his route. But when he’s on the other side, Sanders has to trust his instincts, picking up clues from the quarterback and receiver to try to figure out what’s going to happen next. Thanks to his participation in track, where he runs the 300-meter hurdles and competes in the triple jump,
VIDEO augustachronicle.com.
Sanders has cut his 40-yard time from 4.9 seconds to 4.5, meaning he is more capable of soaring to the ball on a pass or tracking down a ball carrier on a run. When he’s at his fastest, Sanders can see the action around him slow down, making it easier to swoop in for the big defensive play. “It’s a different feeling,” Sanders said. “Everybody is moving slower than you when you’re moving fast. It’s kind of fun.”
Washington County Golden Hawks Senior Defensive back/ linebacker/ wide receiver 6-foot-1 195 pounds
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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football preview 28 PHOTO ILLUSTRATION
JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN/STAFF
Sunday, August 25, 2013
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By Wayne Staats
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Staff Writer
s a student-athlete, Taylor Hearn is expected to listen to his teachers, his coaches and his parents. But when he steps onto the football field on Friday night, the devil in him emerges. “I just like the ability to be physical with people every play and get a chance to put them on their back,” the Williston-Elko senior said. “You can
get away with hurting people on the football field.” With his stature and barbed wire tattoo, Hearn is an intimidating force for the Blue Devils. He knocks down players lined up against him, condemning them to the ground. The Clemson commitment, who was an AllArea pick, bedevils opposing linemen,
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picking up pancake blocks when he’s assigned to right tackle on the offensive line. Hearn knows the football field on Friday night is the perfect place to toss away most rules and frighten his foes. That’s the time to bring the pain. “You got to have a thick skin, get mad and try and hurt people,” Hearn said. “You can give or receive a hit. So most of the time, you want to be the giver. You don’t want to get hit.”
Williston-Elko Blue Devils Senior Offensive lineman/ defensive lineman 6-foot-5 305 pounds
29 football preview Sunday, August 25, 2013
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 30
By Wayne Staats
South Aiken Thoroughbreds
Staff Writer
REGION: SCHSL 5-AAAA COACH: Jeremy West 2012: 2-9, missed Class AAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB Bo Baldwin; Jr. DL/WR Rasool Clemons; Sr. RB Adam Allen; Sr. TE/LB Will Holbrook; Sr. WR/ DB/LB Jordan Scott OUTLOOK: Just stay healthy. That’s likely the mantra for this team, which has seen injuries deflate the hopes early in each of the past two seasons. But the Thoroughbreds are healthy now and hoping to post their first nonlosing season since 2006. The talent is there to take that step and make the state playoffs. Schedule South Aiken senior quarterback Bo Baldwin is a highly thought of prospect who has been injured in each of the past two seasons. If he stays healthy, he could have a big year for the Thoroughbreds.
“He’s got an arm that comes around once in a lifetime. I’d just like to see it more.” – Jeremy West, South Aiken coach on Bo Baldwin
Baldwin’s father, Ken, said the family was trying to stay positive during the injuries. Though Baldwin internalized his feelings, Ken Baldwin knew his son was probably bothered more than he let on. But from the outside, Baldwin kept looking forward. “We encouraged him to not give up,” Baldwin’s father said. “And he never expressed, ‘I’ve had enough.’ It was, ‘I can’t wait to get back.’ ” Baldwin returned from his broken hand against Dutch Fork in the Thoroughbreds’ seventh game. He was a little rusty, but Baldwin got better as South Aiken went on to beat Lexington and Aiken in two of its last four games. The slinger got his strong arm in part by playing baseball when he was young, and by middle school Baldwin’s future was set at quarterback. In seventh grade, the starting running back, former South Aiken
teammate DeAndre Schoultz, got hurt. The starting quarterback moved to running back to fill the empty spot. That left the quarterback position open for Baldwin. Baldwin’s arm has always been impressive, going back to when he was South Aiken’s ball boy. Today, with Baldwin behind center, South Aiken has a quarterback who can deliver the deep ball, forcing defensive backs to stay with the Thoroughbreds’ receivers. In some high school offenses, the passing game is more of a glorified run, with short passes and screens. They do work, but at South Aiken, with Baldwin, defenses are less likely to stuff the box. It makes a difference: the past two seasons, when Baldwin starts and finishes a game, the Thoroughbreds have gone 4-4. Otherwise, South Aiken is 0-14. This season, Baldwin and the
Thoroughbreds are hoping for a different story. West wants Baldwin to shine so he can help the team, improve his collegiate prospects and disprove any questions about Baldwin’s toughness. “I don’t want anyone thinking he’s not tough,” West said. “The things that have happened ... you see him play, he puts his shoulder down when he runs, he’ll stay in the pocket to throw and take a shot, so it’s not he’s not tough. It’s just freak accidents.” In a perfect world, Baldwin stays healthy and reaches his goal for 2,000-plus yards, throwing passes to Jordan Scott, Matt Albertson, Rasool Clemons, Will Holbrook and others. “I hope things turn around for him. It would be good for all of us,” West said. “His luck’s got to change sooner or later.”
Aug. 23 Richland N’east Aug. 30 Greenwood Sept. 6 Northwestern Sept. 13 at Silver Bluff Sept. 20 Strom Thurmond Sept. 27 at Spring Valley Oct. 11 at Dutch Fork Oct. 18 at Lexington Oct. 25 at North Augusta Nov. 1 White Knoll Nov. 8 Aiken
MICHAEL HOLAHAN/staff
Todd Bennett/staff
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Sunday, August 25, 2013
AIKEN — The play was simple. It was a hitch route, an easy throw for quarterbacks – Bo Baldwin especially. But as the ball sailed 10 yards into the stands at Richland Northeast, South Aiken coach Jeremy West knew something was wrong. Again. As it turned out, Baldwin had broken his passing hand earlier in the game. It came on the third play of the first contest of the 2012 season, and it would force him to miss more than half the season. Again. As a sophomore in 2011, Baldwin played 3 ½ games before he broke his collarbone and missed the remainder of the season. “I think he was in shock a little bit, because it happened again,” West said. “But he’s mature for his age and he’s got good family support. Knowing he had a chance coming back, that gave him some hope. If it had been another season-ending injury, then I don’t know how he could handle it.” At 6-foot-5, 232 pounds, Baldwin looks like a quarterback. With Baldwin’s size and goatee, West said the senior looks like a college sophomore. Then there’s his arm. Baldwin can throw it almost 70 yards, with his longest in a game soaring for more than 50 yards. “He’s got an arm that comes around once in a lifetime,” West said. “I’d just like to see it more.” Baldwin is completely healthy now. He said he’s not wasting time thinking about another injury happening, or about his collegiate future. Big-time colleges such as Clemson, Louisiana State and Tennessee are interested in him, and he’s received a grayshirt offer from South Carolina. Baldwin has also played well in 7-on7s, but more game action might be needed to add more scholarship offers. Not that Baldwin’s return is just about earning scholarships. “I’m not playing for that,” Baldwin said. “I’m playing for the team, and everything else will fall into place.” Baldwin comes from an athletic family. His mom is 5-foot-11, he said. His dad is 6-2, and was a linebacker/ defensive end at Delaware. His brothers also played on the line, with both attending South Aiken.
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Quarterback hoping for better luck
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 32
By Chris Gay
Laney Wildcats
Staff Writer
REGION: GHSA 3-AA COACH: Lemuel Lackey 2012: 7-4, Class AA first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. OL/ DL James Holmon; Sr. TE/LB Marquis Miller; Soph. WR/DB Vicente Thompkins; Sr. WR/ DB Curtis Hightower Jr.; Soph. QB/DB Andre James OUTLOOK: It’s difficult to come up with an Augusta program that’s been as consistent as Laney. Going back to 2000, when Eric Parker was the head coach, the Wildcats have posted a winning record every year except one – when they went 5-5 in 2009. Lackey has continued the tradition, and that won’t change this fall. Laney is targeting a region title this season. Schedule JON-MICHAEL SULLIVAN/file
Senior Marquis Miller (bottom) and Laney went 7-4 last season and reached the playoffs. Since 2000, the Wildcats are 103-50 and haven’t had a losing season.
Losing close contests makes it tough for Lackey, be cause winning is expected. “No one has this kind of pressure to win. No one,” Lackey said. “I don’t get any other kind of advantage that any Richmond County coach gets. Whatever number of coaches I have, they have. “I think we’re going over
board to maintain. People don’t understand you are handicapped an awful lot. Number of coaches. Budget cuts. Everything.” Lackey said he’s excited about the upcoming season. But to contend for a Class AA title, Laney needs more players to build depth – he currently has about 50 – and
Aug. 30 at Butler 7:30 Sept. 6 at Westminster-Atl. 7:30 Sept. 13 Glenn Hills 7:30 Sept. 20 Washington County 7:30 Oct. 4 at Screven County 7:30 Oct. 11 Westside 7:30 Oct. 18 at East Laurens 7:30 Oct. 25 Josey 7:30 Nov. 1 at Dublin 7:30 Nov. 8 Harlem 7:30
more money like booster clubs at some area schools like Burke County, Lincoln County and Thomson pro vide, he said. Reach Chris Gay at (706) 823-3645 or chris.gay@augustachronicle.com.
Burke County Bears
Butler Bulldogs
REGION: GHSA 3-AAAA, Subregion B COACH: Eric Parker 2012: 11-2, Class AAAA state quarterfinalist KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB/DB Donquell Green; Sr. RB/ DB Reginald Grubbs; Sr. WR Jermaine Baxley; Jr. RB Donqual Young; Sr. OL Juwan Gardner OUTLOOK: The past three seasons, the Bears have gone 36-6, winning the state championship in 2011. This year’s team is also capable of going all the way, as the firepower on offense starts with player of the year candidate Green. Yes, both the offensive and defensive coordinators from a year ago are gone, but Parker is a proven winner. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AAAA, Subregion B COACH: Myron Newton 2012: 2-8, missed Class AAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB Sandrez Evans; Sr. DB Xavier Lightfoot; Jr. LB Jerald Carter; Jr. LB Jason Grace; Jr. DB/WR Carlos Smith OUTLOOK: After back-toback winning seasons, Butler took a giant step back, mostly because the talented senior class was no longer there. Newton doesn’t like using the word “rebuilding,” so even though the Bulldogs will be young again, the second-year coach hopes to see some improvement – Butler had two separate losing streaks of four games. Schedule
Aug. 23 at Thomson Sept. 6 at Hephzibah Sept. 13 Coffee Sept. 20 at Statesboro Sept. 27 Cross Creek Oct. 4 at Wayne County Oct. 11 Richmond Acad. Oct. 18 at Glenn Hills Nov. 1 Butler Nov. 8 Region Play-In
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Aug. 30 Laney Sept. 6 Westside Sept. 20 at Wayne County Sept. 27 Statesboro Oct. 4 Hephzibah Oct. 11 Glenn Hills Oct. 18 at Cross Creek Oct. 25 Richmond Acad. Nov. 1 at Burke County Nov. 8 Region Play-In
7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30
Area Seniors to clash in Border bowl Who’s better: Georgia or South Carolina? The Border Bowl will feature the area’s best high school seniors playing in a Georgia-South Carolina contest. The game will be played at 1 p.m. Jan. 11, at Laney’s football stadium. The game is sponsored by WJBF News Channel 6 and The Augusta Chronicle, and
WJBF-Ch. 6 will televise it. Only eligible seniors can play in the game, which will feature North Augusta’s Dan Pippin as South Carolina’s coach and Jarrett Troxler, of Lakeside, as Georgia’s coach. The teams’ coaching staffs and local sports media will assist in the selection of the rosters. – From staff reports
Sunday, August 25, 2013
When James Holmon was a preschooler, Laney started resurrecting its football pro gram. For the past 13 years, the Wildcats have been the cream of the crop in Richmond County. Because of Laney’s success, the senior center said high expectations are a given. “We come to win,” Holmon said. “We don’t like to lose. We were born to win.” This generation of Laney football players doesn’t know what it’s like to lose. Legendary coach David Du pree won a pair of state titles in 1961 and 1966. But after he retired fol lowing the 1983 season, the program fell on tough times. In the next 16 seasons, Laney won a total of 40 games. In 2000, Eric Parker (now the head coach at Burke County) led the Wildcats to their first 10-win season since 1966. Under Parker (and as sistants Lemuel Lackey and David Griffin, who are still with the program), Laney made two trips to the state semifinals in the Georgia Dome. Since 2000, the Wildcats have gone 103-50, with a streak of 13 consecutive nonlosing seasons. “We developed a certain level of consistency and we were able to maintain that,” said Lackey, who enters his seventh season as head coach with a 39-26 record and four playoff appearances. “You know how things are sup posed to work.” Taking that next step as a program has been a high hur dle for Laney. The Wildcats missed winning the region and having home-field ad vantage for at least the first two rounds of the 2012 play offs after they lost by a point to Screven County. Instead of possibly advancing to the state quarterfinals, Laney fell in the first round.
georgia schools
33 football preview
’Cats enjoy consistency
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 34
Cross Creek Razorbacks
Glenn Hills Spartans
Grovetown Warriors
Hephzibah Rebels
Josey Eagles
Lincoln County Red Devils
REGION: GHSA 3-AAAA, Subregion B COACH: Robert McCarty 2012: 3-7, missed Class AAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. RB Deon Kleckley; Sr. LB Vincent Norris; Sr. OL Jukobie Frye; Sr. WR Devon Diamond; Sr. DB Maurice Berry OUTLOOK: McCarty is the new head coach, but the Razorbacks don’t need introductions. McCarty was an assistant on the varsity program, so he’s familiar with the players. Cross Creek has had only two winning seasons in its history, but the Razorbacks aren’t working with nothing – they went 5-5 just two years ago and had a threegame winning streak in 2012. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AAAA, Subregion B COACH: Tim McClain 2012: 3-7, missed Class AAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB Santo Nina; Sr. WR/DB Earl Cobb; Sr. DL Broderick Roberts; Sr. WR/DB Kahlige Fleglar; Sr. WR Greg Ulmer OUTLOOK: McClain is in his first year as the Spartans’ head coach, but he has solid offensive tools to use. The Nina-Cobb combination should produce big numbers, but McClain also wants to establish the running game. Without a winning season since 2008, Glenn Hills has work to do, although the three wins in 2012 were a two-game improvement from 2011. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 2-AAAAA COACH: Rodney Holder 2012: 3-7, missed Class AAAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. TE/DL Donovan Davis; Sr. TE/ DB Reggie Cox; Sr. DB/RB Linward Jackson; Sr. OL/DL Rob Feliciano; Sr. OL/DL Conrad Simpson OUTLOOK: The Warriors were a game out of a playoff berth and a late loss at Lakeside in the middle of the season proved to be the determiner. The Warriors lost the majority of their statistical leaders from 2012, so the next group needs to be ready to step up. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AAAA, Subregion B COACH: John Bowen 2012: 0-10, missed Class AAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Soph. RB Wallace Curtis; Jr. OL/ DL Cam Danner; Jr. RB Raheem Jennings; Sr. LB Jayquan Lewis; Sr. OL/DL/ LB Tommie Griffin OUTLOOK: The have won one game in the past two years. In 2012, the offense scored in double figures only three times and the defense allowed 40-plus five times as a young team took some hits. It’s going to be a difficult climb back to contention. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AA COACH: Raleigh Roundtree 2012: 2-8, missed Class AA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. WR/DB Juwan Tolbert; Sr. LB/RB Leon McQuaker; Sr. WR/DB Jabrie Dominquez; Jr. OL/ DL Bernard Hammond; Jr. OL/DL Harold Orsten OUTLOOK: The rebuilding job falls to Roundtree, a former NFL player and Josey star, who moved up in the staff to become the newest head coach. The Eagles haven’t had a winning season since they went 10-2 in 1999. With seven losses by at least four touchdowns in 2012, Josey has plenty of ground to make up. Roundtree hopes to implement a winning attitude his first year as the head coach. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 7-A COACH: Larry Campbell 2012: 11-2, Class A public state semifinalist KEY PLAYERS: Sr. RB Mike McIntire; Jr. ATH Jamar Norman; Sr. QB Ben Turner; Jr. DL Lethacious Lockhart; Sr. DB Jalen Smith OUTLOOK: Lincoln County has won at least 10 games every season since 2002, when it went 8-5 – and still reached the state quarterfinals. Some talented receivers are gone, but Lincoln County is always good. McIntire will be a force in the running game, and the Red Devils will be one of the favorites to win the public state title in 2013 for legendary coach Campbell. Schedule
Aug. 23 Greenbrier Aug. 30 at Westside Sept. 20 Liberty County Sept. 27 at Burke County Oct. 4 South Effingham Oct. 11 at Hephzibah Oct. 18 Butler Oct. 25 at Glenn Hills Nov. 1 at Richmond Acad. Nov. 8 Region Play-In
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Greenbrier Wolfpack
Evans Knights
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REGION: GHSA 2-AAAAA COACH: Kevin Hunt 2012: 2-8, missed Class AAAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Jr. QB Adam Sasser; Jr. RB Jamal Richard; Sr. LB Chris Michals; Sr. P/K Matt Chiera OUTLOOK: Greenbrier was at the back of the pack in 2012 in Hunt’s first year at the helm. The Wolfpack have talent returning, but will they be able to fill the void left by the loss of 19 seniors? Schedule
Aug. 23 at Cross Creek Sept. 6 North Augusta Sept. 13 at Jefferson County Sept. 27 at Jones County Oct. 4 Evans Oct. 11 at Warner Robins Oct. 18 at Lakeside Oct. 25 N’side-Warner Rob. Nov. 1 at Grovetown Nov. 9 at Houston County
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7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30
Aug. 30 at Josey Sept. 6 Burke County Sept. 13 at Westside Sept. 20 South Effingham Sept. 27 at Liberty County Oct. 4 at Butler Oct. 11 Cross Creek Oct. 18 Richmond Acad. Nov. 1 at Glenn Hills Nov. 8 Region Play-In
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Harlem Bulldogs
Jefferson County Warriors
REGION: GHSA 3-AA COACH: Jimmie Lewis 2012: 2-8, missed Class AA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. DL Tyler Sheppard; Sr. DB Mason McDaniel; Jr. RB Austin Burt; Sr. LB/RB Jordan Dorsey; Jr. RB/DB Dontel Frails OUTLOOK: The Bulldogs snapped a 13-game losing streak with a homecoming win in 2012 in their first year in Class AA. The Bulldogs lost three games by six points or less which could have put them at .500. With some key players back, the Bulldogs will have a shot at that mark in 2013. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AAA COACH: J.B. Arnold 2012: 4-7, Class AAA first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. RB Cartabius Quarterman; Sr. DB LaDerrick Hammond; Sr. DB T.J. Clark; Jr. LB Daylan Williams; Jr. QB Will Jordan OUTLOOK: The Warriors face a brutal schedule again. A road trip to Fitzgerald opens the new year, with Baldwin and Wesleyan two more big ones before region play. For a program looking to make the playoffs for the 12th consecutive season, it will have to finish in the top four of a five-team region. With a talented secondary anchoring the defense, they should reach the playoffs. Schedule
Aug. 30 at Ga. Military College Sept. 6 Oglethorpe County Sept. 13 Glascock County Sept. 20 at Social Circle Sept. 27 Screven County Oct. 4 at Westside Oct. 11 East Laurens Oct. 18 at Josey Oct. 25 Dublin Nov. 8 at Laney
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Aug. 23 at Fitzgerald Aug. 30 at Baldwin Sept. 13 Greenbrier Sept. 20 Evans Sept. 27 at Wesleyan Oct. 4 Dodge County Oct. 11 at Washington County Oct. 18 Cook Nov. 1 at Swainsboro Nov. 8 Thomson
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Aug. 30 Hephzibah Sept. 6 Glenn Hills Sept. 13 at Richmond Acad. Sept. 20 Aquinas Sept. 27 East Laurens Oct. 11 at Dublin Oct. 18 Harlem Oct. 25 at Laney Nov. 1 Screven County Nov. 8 at Westside
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Aug. 23 McCormick Sept. 6 at Wash.-Wilkes Sept. 13 at Ninety-Six Sept. 27 First Presbyterian Oct. 4 Warren County Oct. 11 Aquinas Oct. 18 at Ga. Mil. College Oct. 25 Twiggs County Nov. 1 at Wilkinson County Nov. 8 at Hancock Central
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Sunday, August 25, 2013
REGION: GHSA 2-AAAAA COACH: Marty Jackson 2012: 3-7, missed Class AAAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. WR/ DB K’Lon Lovett; Sr. RB Stephon Jacobs; Sr. RB Joacinto Grimes; Sr. RB Ronnie Graham; Jr. WB Matlin Marshall; Sr. OL Kyle Grinnell; Sr. OL Clay Norsworthy OUTLOOK: After winning three of their first five games, they lost their final five of the year. The Knights have winnable games on the road and play three of their last four at home. Schedule
Aug. 30 Richmond Acad. Sept. 13 at Elbert County Sept. 20 at Jefferson County Sept. 27 Warner Robins Oct. 4 at Greenbrier Oct. 11 at Jones County Oct. 18 Grovetown Oct. 25 Houston County Nov. 1 Lakeside Nov. 8 at N’side-Warner Rob.
Sept. 6 at Josey Sept. 13 at Laney Sept. 20 Richmond Acad. Sept. 27 at South Effingham Oct. 4 Liberty County Oct. 11 at Butler Oct. 18 Burke County Oct. 25 Cross Creek Nov. 1 Hephzibah Nov. 8 Region Play-In
Aug. 30 at Washington County Sept. 6 Swainsboro Sept. 13 at North Augusta Sept. 27 at Houston County Oct. 4 Lakeside Oct. 11 N’side-Warner Rob. Oct. 18 at Evans Oct. 25 at Warner Robins Nov. 1 Greenbrier Nov. 8 at Jones County
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georgia schools
Sunday, August 25, 2013 football preview 36
Richmond Academy Musketeers REGION: GHSA 3-AAAA, Subregion B COACH: Chris Hughes 2012: 5-5, missed Class AAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. DL/TE Willie Yarbary; Sr. LB Zac Mitchell; Sr. DB Travis Beatty; Jr. QB Tony Daggett; Jr. K Gardner Duckworth OUTLOOK: The Musketeers haven’t reached the playoffs in the past two seasons. They will rely on a talented group of seniors to help the younger players grow before region play. Schedule
Aug. 30 at Evans Sept. 6 at Statesboro Sept. 13 Josey Sept. 20 at Glenn Hills Sept. 27 Wayne County Oct. 11 at Burke County Oct. 18 at Hephzibah Oct. 25 at Butler Nov. 1 Cross Creek Nov. 8 Region Play-In
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Screven County Gamecocks
Swainsboro Tigers
Thomson Bulldogs
Warren County Screaming Devils
REGION: GHSA 3-AA COACH: Ron Duncan 2012: 10-2, Class AA second round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. OL Adam Austin; Sr. OL Chris Oliver; Jr. WR/DB Donta Wilburn; Sr. DB Josh Kerson; Sr. WR/ QB Rashad Hughley OUTLOOK: It’s not going to be easy for the Gamecocks to match last season’s success. Screven County went 10-2 after going 2-8 in 2011. A bunch of seniors from 2012 are gone, but Duncan hopes the impressive run carries over into a new season. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AAA COACH: Ken Eldridge 2012: 3-7, missed Class AAA state playoffs Key players: Sr. LB Bobby Andrews; Sr. OL/DL Alex Jones; Sr. QB/DB Dylan Poole Outlook: New coach Eldridge takes command after he spent four seasons as Coffee’s head coach. He will try to help a program that went 3-7 in both 2011 and 2012. The slump came after the Tigers had consecutive 10-win seasons, so success isn’t in the distant past. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AAA COACH: Milan Turner 2012: 12-1, Class AAA state quarterfinalist Key players: Jr. QB Chris Tutt; Sr. DB Felton Hatcher Outlook: Last year’s fun started with a win against defending champion Burke County and didn’t stop until the quarterfinals. There’s no knowing whether the Bulldogs will complete another undefeated regular season, but don’t expect a major dropoff. Turner is 86-15 in eight seasons as a head coach (previously at Emanuel County Institute). Schedule
Region: GHSA 7-A coach: Cherard Freeman 2012: 1-9, missed Class A public state playoffs Key players: Sr. OL/DL Torrez Wentz; Sr. QB Daniel Richardson Outlook: The Screaming Devils have turned to firstyear head coach Freeman to jump-start the program. After combining for a 14-7 mark in 2010 and 2011, Warren County dropped to 1-9. The Screaming Devils didn’t score a point in four of those losses, but they have reason to be optimistic: Torrez Wentz will be a force. Schedule
Aug. 30 Groves Sept. 6 at Effingham County Sept. 13 at Appling County Sept. 20 Windsor Forest Sept. 27 at Harlem Oct. 4 Laney Oct. 18 at Westside Oct. 25 East Laurens Nov. 1 at Josey Nov. 8 Dublin
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Aug. 23 Worth County Sept. 6 at Grovetown Sept. 13 Pierce County Sept. 20 Dublin Oct. 4 at Statesboro Oct. 11 at Thomson Oct. 18 Washington County Oct. 25 at Wilcox County Nov. 1 Jefferson County Nov. 8 at Dodge County
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Aug. 23 Burke County Sept. 6 at Lakeside Sept. 13 at St. Pius X Sept. 20 LaGrange Sept. 27 at Westminster-Atlanta Oct. 4 Greater Atlanta Chr. Oct. 11 Swainsboro Oct. 18 at Dodge County Oct. 25 Washington County Nov. 8 at Jefferson County
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Aug. 30 at Glascock County 7:30 Sept. 13 Washington-Wilkes 7:30 Sept. 20 at George Walton Acad. 7:30 Sept. 27 at Hancock Central 7:30 Oct. 4 at Lincoln County 7:30 Oct. 11 Ga. Military 7:30 Oct. 18 Twiggs County 7:30 Oct. 25 Aquinas 7:30 Nov. 1 at First Presbyterian 7:30 Nov. 8 Wilkinson County 7:30
Washington County Golden Hawks REGION: GHSA 3-AAA COACH: Joel Ingram 2012: 11-2, Class AAA state quarterfinalist KEY PLAYERS: Sr. LB/WR D.J. Sanders; Jr. QB/DB A.J. Gray; Sr. RB/DB Melvin Hill; Sr. TE/DL Chris Edwards; Jr. DL/LB Logan Hunt OUTLOOK: The Golden Hawks were one of the best teams in Class AAA, losing by only five points in the quarterfinals. QB William Walker was one of the stars, but A.J. Gray should step in and perform. Schedule
Aug. 23 Aug. 30 Sep. 6 Sep. 13 Sep. 20 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
Eagle’s Land. Christ. Grovetown at Emanuel Co. Inst. Baldwin at Laney at Lovett Jefferson County at Swainsboro at Thomson Dodge County
37 football preview
georgia schools
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Sunday, August 25, 2013
football preview 38
georgia schools
south carolina schools
WashingtonWilkes Tigers
Westside Patriots
Aiken Hornets
Barnwell Warhorses
Fox Creek Predators
Midland Valley Mustangs
REGION: GHSA 8-AA COACH: Robby Robinson 2012: 10-2, Class AA second round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. OL Darryl Ware; Sr. LB Tomarkus Young; Sr. WR Treyvon Booker; Sr. LB Ben Hodges; Sr. WR Jalen Turner OUTLOOK: As one of the smallest schools playing in Class AA, good health will be necessary. WashingtonWilkes has talent, but it will need to avoid injuries because of the issues with depth. Still, the Tigers should be one of the better teams in Class AA. Schedule
REGION: GHSA 3-AA COACH: Steve Hibbitts 2012: 5-6, Class AA first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB/DB Jalen Lampkin; Jr. DL/OL Elleczar Newsome; Jr. LB/ OL Toribio Upsey; Sr. RB Demarcus Vaughn; Sr. DE David Hunter OUTLOOK: They are coming off their first state playoff appearance since 2005, but enter on a five-game losing streak. This year, Westside expects to make it back to the postseason. Schedule
REGION: SCHSL 5-AAAA COACH: Brian Neal 2012: 2-9, missed Class AAAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB Caleb Heath; Sr. RB Nakeem Spann; Jr. WR Antwan Chandler; Sr. LB D’Andre Pope; Sr. OL Jason Hightower OUTLOOK: Neal is in his first season with the Hornets. He turned around McCormick in only two years, but now must do it in a higher classification. It won’t be easy, but speedy Spann could have a big season. Schedule
REGION: SCHSL 5-AA Coach: Ed Moore 2012: 5-7, Class AA, Division II second round Key players: Sr. TE/DL Charles Williams; Sr. RB/ DL Detravian Johnson; Jr. LB Regan Guest; Jr. QB/DB Jevonte Dunbar; Soph. RB/ DB Shakur Chisolm Outlook: Barnwell has picked up a first-round playoff win in each of the past two seasons, so this team isn’t unfamiliar to winor-go-home stakes. Moore, coaching his alma mater, brings back two 2012 AllArea selections in Williams and Chisolm. Schedule
REGION: SCHSL 4-A COACH: Russell Schneider 2012: 2-8, missed state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB/DB Deondre Baskett; Sr. OL/ DL Alan Randall; Sr. OL/ DL Ty Yarbrough; Sr. OL/DL Andrew Crytzer; Sr. RB/DB Jaquan Williams OUTLOOK: Last season was mostly a struggle but the Predators are seeing brighter days ahead. Baskett is Fox Creek’s most dangerous playmaker, and the team will put him in different spots to get him the ball. Schedule
REGION: SCHSL 5-AAA COACH: Rick Knight 2012: 4-7, Class AAA first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. LB Garret Boatwright; Soph. QB Daniel Carr; Jr. WR Kameron Brown; Jr. RB Dre Carr; Soph. LB Xavier Leaphart OUTLOOK: A playoff team a season ago, Midland Valley returns quality players who received a lot of playing time as either freshmen or sophomores. The fun on offense starts with the Carrs, who should provide a major portion of the rushing yards. Defensively, veteran Boatwright will anchor the group. Schedule
Aug. 30 at Calhoun Falls Sept. 6 Lincoln County Sept. 13 at Warren County Sept. 20 at Riverside Military Sept. 27 Union County Oct. 4 Jefferson Oct. 11 at Greene County Oct. 18 Rabun County Nov. 1 Oglethorpe County Nov. 8 at Social Circle
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Aug. 30 Cross Creek Sept. 6 at Butler Sept. 13 Hephzibah Sept. 20 at Lakeside Sept. 27 at Dublin Oct. 4 Harlem Oct. 11 at Laney Oct. 18 Screven County Nov. 1 at East Laurens Nov. 8 Josey
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–Wayne Staats and Scott Rouch, staff writers
Aug. 30 Silver Bluff Sept. 6 Beaufort Sept.13 at Midland Valley Sept. 20 Richland Northeast Sept. 27 at Irmo Oct. 4 at Blythewood Oct. 11 at White Knoll Oct. 18 Dutch Fork Oct. 25 at Lexington Nov. 1 North Augusta Nov. 8 at South Aiken
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Aug. 23 St. Joseph’s Aug. 30 Blackville-Hilda Sept. 6 at Williston-Elko Sept. 13 at Woodland Sept. 27 Swansea Oct. 4 at Wade Hampton Oct. 11 Edisto Oct. 18 at Calhoun County Oct. 25 at Bamberg-Ehrhardt Nov. 1 Silver Bluff
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Blackville-Hilda Fighting Hawks
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Region: SCHSL 4-A Coach: David Berry 2012: 7-5, Class A, Division II second round Key players: Jr. RB Darren Ford; Jr. OL/DL Ricky Williams Outlook: Freshmen and sophomores will be asked to do a lot this season. With many young players getting action, BlackvilleHilda hopes they grow up in a hurry. Berry hopes the practice time and earlyseason games will help. Schedule
Aug. 30 at Barnwell Sept. 6 Denmark-Olar Sept. 13 at Bamberg-Ehrhardt Sept. 20 at Wagener-Salley Sept. 27 at North Oct. 4 Hunter-Kinard-Tyler Oct. 11 at R. Spring-Monetta Oct. 18 Bethune-Bowman Oct. 25 Fox Creek Nov. 1 Williston-Elko
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Aug. 23 at Dreher Aug. 30 at McCormick Sept. 6 at Branchville Sept. 20 Augusta Christian Sept. 27 Ridge Spring-Monetta Oct. 4 Williston-Elko Oct. 11 at North Oct. 18 Wagener-Salley Oct. 25 at Blackville-Hilda Nov. 1 at Hunter-Kinard-Tyler
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McCormick Chiefs REGION: SCHSL 1-A COACH: Bryan Buffkin 2012: 11-3, Class A Division II runner-up KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB Jay Weaver; Sr. LB Kensavious Brown; Sr. RB/CB Jesse Freeman; Sr. OL/DL Kenneth Gunter; Jr. FB Devon Crapps OUTLOOK: The Chiefs were one win away from winning the state title. Coach Brian Neal was rewarded for his work by getting the Aiken job. However, Buffkin was on staff, so there won’t be too much of a transition this season. Schedule
Aug. 23 at Lincoln County Aug. 30 Fox Creek Sept. 13 Ridge Spring-Monetta Sept. 20 Whitmire Sept. 27 at St. Joseph’s Oct. 4 Christ Church Oct. 11 at Southside Christian Oct. 18 at Ware Shoals Oct. 25 at Dixie Nov. 1 Calhoun Falls Charter
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Aug. 30 North Augusta Sept. 6 at Allendale-Fairfax Sept. 13 Aiken Sept. 20 at Silver Bluff Sept. 27 Baptist Hill Oct. 4 at Gilbert Oct. 11 at Swansea Oct. 18 Brookland-Cayce Oct. 25 at Airport Nov. 1 Strom Thurmond
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Ridge SpringMonetta Trojans REGION: SCHSL 4-A head coach: Heath Corley 2012: 4-7, Class A, Division II first round key players: Sr. QB Reggie Preston; Sr. RB/ LB Tray Wigfall; Sr. OL/LB Romello Harris; Sr. WR/DB Samuel Bedenbaugh; Sr. ATH A.J. Hopkins outlook: The Trojans surrendered at least 30 points in six of their seven losses last season. However, the offense can score. Schedule
Aug. 23 at Pelion Aug. 30 Saluda Sept. 6 at Dixie Sept. 13 at McCormick Sept. 20 Hunter-Kinard-Tyler Sept. 27 at Fox Creek Oct. 11 Blackville-Hilda Oct. 18 at Williston-Elko Oct. 25 at North Nov. 1 Wagener-Salley
the blitz Watch our video show, The Blitz, which features teams to watch and key games each week, at augustachronicle.com/blitz.
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independent schools
Silver Bluff Bulldogs
Wagener-Salley War Eagles
Augusta Prep Cavaliers
Briarwood Buccaneers
Edmund Burke Spartans
Wardlaw Patriots
REGION: SCHSL 5-AA COACH: Al Lown 2012: 11-2, Class AA Division II Lower State runner-up KEY PLAYERS: Sr. OL/ DL Gyasi Yeldell; Sr. OL/ LB James Jacks; Sr. DB/ RB Jalen Douse; Sr. TE McKenzie Wilson; Sr. OL/DL Avery Corbett OUTLOOK: All Lown does is win. The Bulldogs have reached the Lower State championship game in back-to-back seasons, winning 20 total games during the run. With strong lines, Silver Bluff should be right in the mix for a similar playoff showing. Schedule
REGION: SCHSL 4-A COACH: Ken Tucker 2012: 8-3, Class A, Division II first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. TE/DE R.J. Tyler; Sr. QB Malcolm Stroman; Sr. WR/DB Bobby Chavis; Sr. RB/DB Eric Corley; Sr. OL/DL Santrale Moore OUTLOOK: They want more this year. The War Eagles bring back 18 starters, including star Tyler, a quality prospect at tight end. Wagener-Salley posted its first winning season since 1995 by going 8-3 in 2012. This fall, the War Eagles want to pick up some playoff wins. Schedule
REGION: Alabama Georgia Independent League, Glory for Christ (GFC) conference COACH: Harry Bacheller 2012: 7-4, GFC championships semifinalist KEY PLAYERS: Sr. RB Nolan Brandon; Sr. RB Kevin Huggins; Sr. WR Michael Downing; Sr. RB/WR Nate Pylant OUTLOOK: In their third full year as a varsity squad, the Cavaliers have a wealth of talent coming back to a team that averaged 26.5 points per game in 2012. After advancing to the semifinals a year ago, the Cavaliers might be ready to take that next step forward. Schedule
REGION: GISA 1-AA COACH: John Osborne 2012: 6-5, Class A first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB/DB Bryce Sowell; Sr. OL/DL Jackson Williams; Sr. TE/ LB Dalton Banks; Sr. FB/DE Tad McCorkle; So. RB/DB Dakota Reese OUTLOOK: Osborne’s program has had a winning season every year in his six seasons. But the past two seasons have ended in the first round, losing by a combined 64 points. However, the Buccaneers have talent, including 275pound lineman Williams, who was an All-Area selection. Schedule
REGION: GISA 2-AA COACH: Terence Hennessy 2012: 6-4, Class AA state quarterfinals KEY PLAYERS: Sr. RB/DB Lane Christian; Sr. RB/ LB Alan Matthews; Sr. RB/ LB Ben Murray; Sr. RB/LB Mason Winkler; Jr. OL/DL Ryan Kent OUTLOOK: Hennessy, who is in his first season after Buddy Sorrow’s retirement, leads a consistently strong program, considering it has won 35 games over the past four seasons. Christian is a major part of the senior class, throwing for 800 yards and making more than 50 tackles. Schedule
REGION: SCISA 8-man COACH: Mark Rodgers 2012: 11-1, 8-man state champion KEY PLAYERS: Jr. RB Malik Lee; Sr. OL Jacob Baynham; Sr. LB Daylen Morris; Sr. QB Holton Manley; Sr. DL Zach Sherrill OUTLOOK: The Patriots begin the 2013 season as the two-time defending state champions. With more state titles won in 1999, 2002, 2003, 2008 and 2009, Wardlaw has proven to be an annual contender for a state crown. This year will be no different, with Lee ready for another season. Schedule
Aug. 23 Latta 7:30 Aug. 30 at Bethune-Bowman 7:30 Sept. 6 Pelion 7:30 Sept. 13 at Whitmire 7:30 Sept. 20 Blackville-Hilda 7:30 Sept. 27 at Williston-Elko 7:30 Oct. 4 North 7:30 Oct. 18 at Fox Creek 7:30 Oct. 25 Hunter-Kinard-Tyler 7:30 Nov. 1 at Ridge Spring-Monetta 7:30
Strom Thurmond Rebels
Williston-Elko Blue Devils
Brentwood Eagles
REGION: SCHSL 5-AAA COACH: Lee Sawyer 2012: 12-2, Class AAA Lower State runner-up KEY PLAYERS: Sr. QB Jauveer Hammond; Sr. WR Kendall Hill; Sr. DL Lyndon Lowery; Sr. LB Kenyatta Dunbar; Sr. LB Nate Bright OUTLOOK: The Rebels have the fewest returning starters since the 2005 state title team, so another long postseason run hinges on the development of younger players. Lineman Josh Clark tore his ACL in spring practice, but Hammond is one of the area’s best talents. The Rebels could be playing for a state title in 2013. Schedule
REGION: SCHSL 4-A COACH: Dwayne Garrick 2012: 8-3, Class A Division I first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. OL/ DL Taylor Hearn; Sr. RB Antonio Coleman; Sr. WR/ DB Faheem Richburg; Sr. TE/DL Laurence Phoenix; Sr. OL/DL Shawn Chavis OUTLOOK: As usual, the Blue Devils will field a team capable of dominating the region. On the line, Clemson commit Hearn is a mountain, and the rest of the offense will be a force. If the defense plays just a little bit better this season, Williston-Elko will be a state championship contender. Schedule
REGION: GISA 2-AA COACH: Bert Brown 2012: 7-6, Class AA state semifinalist KEY PLAYERS: Sr. RB/LB Nick Pullen; Sr. TE/DB/K Tory Mimbs; Sr. RB/DB Eric Smith; Sr. OL/DL Tyler Collins; Jr. QB Samuel Joiner OUTLOOK: With nine starters back on both sides of the ball, the Eagles have plenty of returning stars to shoot for at least a repeat playoff performance. Brentwood last played for a state title in 2009 (and won it all in 2002 and 2003), and with Pullen among the veterans, it has the right to dream big again. Schedule
Aug. 23 Silver Bluff Sept. 6 at Saluda Sept. 13 Batesburg-Leesville Sept. 20 at South Aiken Sept. 27 at North Augusta Oct. 4 Brookland-Cayce Oct. 11 at Airport Oct. 18 Swansea Oct. 25 Gilbert Nov. 1 at Midland Valley
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Aug. 23 at Edisto Aug. 30 Chesterfield Sept. 6 Barnwell Sept. 13 at Denmark-Olar Sept. 20 North Sept. 27 Wagener-Salley Oct. 4 at Fox Creek Oct. 11 at Hunter-Kinard-Tyler Oct. 18 Ridge Spring-Monetta Nov. 1 at Blackville-Hilda
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– Wayne Staats, staff writer
Aug. 16 Holy Spirit Prep Aug. 23 Bethlehem Christian Sept. 6 Curtis Baptist Sept. 13 at Thomas Jefferson Sept. 20 Ga. Force Sept. 27 at Westminster Oct. 4 at East Atlanta Oct. 11 Skipstone Oct. 18 at Anderson (S.C.) Oct. 25 at Augusta Eagles
Aug. 23 John Milledge Sept. 6 at Piedmont Sept. 13 Pinewood Christian Sept. 20 at Gatewood Sept. 27 Bulloch Oct. 4 at Trinity Christian Oct. 11 at Thomas Jefferson Oct. 18 at Bethesda Day Oct. 25 Edmund Burke Nov. 1 Memorial Day
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Aug. 23 Edmund Burke Aug. 30 at Thomas Jefferson Sept. 6 Westminster Sept. 13 at David Emanuel Sept. 20 Nathanael Greene Oct. 4 Central Fellowship Oct. 11 at Gatewood Oct. 18 John Milledge Oct. 25 at Covenant Nov. 1 Windsor
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Curtis Baptist Crusaders REGION: GISA 1-A COACH: Nathan Duffie 2012: 6-6, Class A first round KEY PLAYERS: Sr. RB/LB Trey Reid; Jr. QB Christian Reid; Jr. LB/RB Develle McClendon; Jr. DB/WR Smokey Poole; Jr. LB/OL Caleb Minter OUTLOOK: Are the Crusaders ready for more? Curtis Baptist’s six wins in 2012 were the most in program history, and with 10 starters back on offense and defense, the Crusaders have the materials to do even better this season. The program’s first state playoff victory could be next. Schedule Aug. 23 Westminster Aug. 30 Covenant Sept. 6 at Augusta Prep Sept. 13 at First Pres. Day Sept. 27 Frederica Oct. 5 Nathanael Greene Oct. 11 at Bethlehem Christ Oct. 19 John Hancock Oct. 25 at David Emanuel Nov. 1 Thomas Jefferson Nov. 8 at Dawson Street
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Aug. 23 at Briarwood Aug. 30 at Valwood Sept. 6 Thomas Jefferson Sept. 20 at Piedmont Sept. 27 Community Christ Oct. 4 at Stratford Oct. 11 Bethesda Day Oct. 18 Memorial Day Oct. 25 at Brentwood Nov. 1 Trinity Christ
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Thomas Jefferson Jaguars REGION: GISA 1-A COACH: Chuck Wimberly 2012: 9-4, Class A state semifinalist KEY PLAYERS: Sr. OL/DL Christian Hohmann; Sr. RB/ DE John Paul Newton; Sr. QB Austin Richards; So. RB/LB Justin Haycraft; So. RB/DL Willis Toulson OUTLOOK: The Jaguars won’t have much trouble scoring. The defense has some growing to do, but they are going to be a contender even if the region continues to get more challenging. Wimberly hopes he and his team will win its first state championship since 2006. Schedule Aug. 23 Hilton Head Prep Aug. 30 Briarwood Sept. 6 at Edmund Burke Sept. 13 at Augusta Prep Sept. 20 Fullington Sept. 27 Dawson Street Oct. 4 at David Emanuel Oct. 11 Brentwood Oct. 18 Nathanael Greene Oct. 25 at John Hancock Nov. 1 at Curtis Baptist Nov. 8 at Bethlehem Christ
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Aug. 30 Charleston Coll. Sept. 6 Laurens Sept. 13 at Clarendon Hall Sept. 27 Andrew Jackson Oct. 4 at Greenwood Christ Oct. 11 at Cathedral Oct. 18 Richard Winn Oct. 25 at Carolina Nov. 1 King
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Westminster Wildcats REGION: GISA 2-AAA COACH: Andrew Bryan 2012: 6-5, missed Class AAA state playoffs KEY PLAYERS: Jr. WR Michael Almond; Sr. OL/ LB Will Newton; So. LB/ OL Ethan Lynch; Jr. RB/DL Josh Jackson; Sr. OL/DL Josiah Smith OUTLOOK: Thanks to a 6-0 start to the 2012 season, the Wildcats had their first winning season. The great senior class from a year ago has left, but Westminster has designs for another winning campaign for 2013. The young program is gaining more experience and shooting for consistency. Schedule Aug. 23 at Curtis Baptist Aug. 30 at Creekside Christ Sept. 6 at Briarwood Sept. 13 Bethlehem Christ Sept. 20 John Hancock Sept. 27 Augusta Prep Oct. 4 at Tattnall Square Oct. 18 Mount DeSales Oct. 25 at Heritage School Nov. 1 at Trinity-Sharpsburg Nov. 8 Stratford Acad.
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– Wayne Staats and Scott Rouch, staff writers
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Aug. 23 at Strom Thurmond 7:30 Aug. 30 at Aiken 7:30 Sept. 6 Southside Christian 7:30 Sept. 13 South Aiken 7:30 Sept. 20 Midland Valley 7:30 Oct. 4 at Bamberg-Ehrhardt 7:30 Oct. 11 Wade Hampton 7:30 Oct. 18 Edisto 7:30 Oct. 25 Calhoun County 7:30 Nov. 1 at Barnwell 7:30
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s.c. schools
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