2018 High School Football

GAME TIME AUGUST 2018

ELCA’S JUSTIN MENARD

EASTSIDE’S JAMARI BROWN

ROCKDALE’S DAVID BAROS

LOVEJOY’S WILL ROGERS

A preview of the upcoming football season for teams in Clayton, Henry, Newton and Rockdale counties

Clayton News • Henry Herald • Newton Citizen • Rockdale Citizen

schedules Alcovy Tigers Aug. 17 at Newton (SH) Aug. 23 Rockdale County (SH) Aug. 31 Eastside (SH) Sept. 7 at Salem Sept. 28 at Colquitt County Oct. 5 at Grovetown Oct. 11 Lakeside-Evans (SH) Oct. 19 Heritage-Conyers (SH) Oct. 26 at Evans Nov. 1 Greenbrier (SH) Drew Titans Aug. 17 at Lowndes Aug. 24 Riverdale (SC) Sept. 6 at Lovejoy (TO) Sept. 14 Forest Park (SC) Sept. 21 Tucker (SC) Oct. 4 Mount Zion (SC) Oct. 11 at Morrow (T) Oct. 19 Stephenson (SC) Oct. 26 at M.L. King (GO) Nov. 2 at Mundy’s Mill (TO) Dutchtown Bulldogs Aug. 17 at Hughes Aug. 24 at Creekside Aug. 31 at Crisp County Sept. 7 Ola Sept. 14 Union Grove Sept. 28 Woodland Oct. 5 at Jones County Oct. 19 at Stockbridge Oct. 26 Eagle’s Landing Nov. 2 at Locust Grove Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Chargers Aug. 17 Morrow Aug. 24 at Pace Academy Aug. 31 at Heritage-Conyers Sept. 14 Holy Innocents’ Sept. 21 Trinity Christian Sept. 28 at Wesleyan Oct. 5 Our Lady of Mercy Oct. 19 at Strong Rock Christian Oct. 26 Mount Vernon Nov. 2 at Landmark Christian Eagle’s Landing High Golden Eagles Aug. 17 at Rockdale County Aug. 24 at Douglas County Aug. 31 Thomson Sept. 7 Woodland Sept. 14 at Stockbridge Sept. 28 at Union Grove Oct. 5 Locust Grove Oct. 19 at Jones County Oct. 26 at Dutchtown Nov. 2 Ola Eastside Eagles Aug. 17 at Ola Aug. 24 Newton (SH) Aug. 31 at Alcovy (SH) Sept. 13 At North Clayton (SC) Sept. 27 Luella (SH) Oct. 5 at Woodward Academy Oct. 12 Salem (SH) Oct. 18 Druid Hills (SH) Oct. 26 Henry County (SH) Nov. 2 at Hampton Forest Park Panthers Aug. 17 at Lithonia (ND) Aug. 24 at Morrow (T) Aug. 31 Tucker (T) Sept. 14 at Drew (SC) Sept. 21 Mount Zion (T) Oct. 5 Stephenson (T) Oct. 12 at M.L. King (HS) Oct. 18 Clarkston (T) Oct. 26 at Mundy’s Mill (TO) Nov. 2 Lovejoy (T)

2 • August 2018

Hampton Hornets Aug. 17 at Fayette County Aug. 31 Sandy Creek Sept. 7 LaGrange Sept. 14 at Salem Sept. 28 North Clayton Oct. 5 at Luella Oct. 12 Woodward Academy Oct. 19 at Henry County Oct. 27 at Druid Hills (A) Nov. 2 Eastside Henry County Warhawks Aug. 24 Union Grove Aug. 31 at McIntosh Sept. 7 at Spalding (GM) Sept. 14 at Woodward Academy Sept. 28 Salem Oct. 5 at North Clayton (SC) Oct. 12 Luella Oct. 19 Hampton Oct. 26 at Eastside (SH) Nov. 2 Druid Hills Heritage Patriots Aug. 17 at Salem Aug. 31 Eagle’s Landing Christian Sept. 7 Rockdale County Sept. 14 Arabia Mountain Sept. 21 at South Gwinnett Oct. 5 Greenbrier Oct. 12 at Evans Oct. 19 at Alcovy (SH) Oct. 26 Grovetown Nov. 2 at Lakeside-Evans Jonesboro Cardinals Aug. 17 at Mount Zion (T) Aug. 24 at Buford Aug. 31 at Woodland Sept. 7 at Ware County Sept. 21 at Starr’s Mill Sept. 28 Whitewater (TO) Oct. 5 at Griffin (GM) Oct. 12 at Riverdale (SC) Oct. 19 Fayette County (TO) Oct. 26 McIntosh (T) Locust Grove Wildcats Aug. 17 Jackson Aug. 24 Warner Robins Aug. 31 at Camden County Sept. 7 Stockbridge Sept. 14 at Ola Sept. 28 Jones County Oct. 5 at Eagle’s Landing Oct. 19 at Woodland Oct. 26 Union Grove Nov. 2 Dutchtown Lovejoy Wildcats Aug. 17 at Banneker Aug. 24 Mundy’s Mill (TO) Sept. 6 Drew (TO) Sept. 14 at Southwest DeKalb (HS) Sept. 21 Morrow (TO) Sept. 28 at Tucker (A) Oct. 5 M.L. King (TO) Oct. 12 at Mount Zion (T) Oct. 26 at Stephenson (AV) Nov. 2 at Forest Park (T) Luella Lions Aug. 24 Trinity Christian Aug. 31 at Cartersville Sept. 7 at McIntosh Sept. 14 Druid Hills Sept. 27 at Eastside (SH) Oct. 5 Hampton Oct. 12 at Henry County Oct. 18 at North Clayton (SC) Oct. 26 Salem Nov. 2 at Woodward Academy

Morrow Mustangs Aug. 17 at Eagle’s Landing Christian Aug. 24 Forest Park (T) Aug. 31 at Mary Persons Sept. 7 at Mundy’s Mill (TO) Sept. 14 Stephenson (T) Sept. 21 at Lovejoy (TO) Oct. 5 at Tucker (ND) Oct. 11 Drew (T) Oct. 19 Mount Zion (T) Nov. 3 at M.L. King (HS) Mount Zion Bulldogs Aug. 17 Jonesboro (T) Aug. 24 at Starr’s Mill Sept. 7 at Stephenson (HS) Sept. 14 M.L. King (T) Sept. 21 at Forest Park (T) Sept. 28 Mundy’s Mill (T) Oct. 4 at Drew (SC) Oct. 12 Lovejoy (T) Oct. 19 at Morrow (T) Oct. 26 Tucker (T) Mundy’s Mill Tigers Aug. 17 McIntosh (TO) Aug. 24 at Lovejoy (TO) Aug. 31 at Central-Carrollton Sept. 7 Morrow (TO) Sept. 14 at Tucker (A) Sept. 20 M.L. King (TO) Sept. 28 at Mount Zion (T) Oct. 12 at Stephenson (AV) Oct. 26 Forest Park (TO) Nov. 2 Drew (TO) Newton Rams Aug. 17 Alcovy (SH) Aug. 24 at Eastside (SH) Sept. 7 Arabia Mountain (SH) Sept. 14 at Buford Sept. 21 Westlake (SH) Sept. 28 South Gwinnett (SH) Oct. 5 at Archer Oct. 19 at Grayson Oct. 25 Shiloh (SH) Nov. 2 at Rockdale County (RS) North Clayton Eagles Aug. 17 at Riverdale (SC) Aug. 24 at Woodland Aug. 31 at Rome Sept. 13 Eastside (SC) Sept. 28 at Hampton Oct. 5 Henry County (SC) Oct. 12 at Druid Hills (A) Oct. 18 Luella (SC) Oct. 26 Woodward Academy (SC) Nov. 2 at Salem Ola Mustangs Aug. 17 Eastside Aug. 24 at Chapel Hill Aug. 31 Whitewater Sept. 7 at Dutchtown Sept. 14 Locust Grove Sept. 28 Stockbridge Oct. 5 at Woodland Oct. 19 at Union Grove Oct. 26 Jones County Nov. 2 at Eagle’s Landing Riverdale Raiders Aug. 17 North Clayton (SC) Aug. 24 Drew (SC) Aug. 31 at Carrollton Sept. 7 at Miller Grove (GO) Sept. 20 McIntosh (SC) Sept. 28 at Fayette County Oct. 12 Jonesboro (SC) Oct. 20 Whitewater (SC) Oct. 26 at Starr’s Mill Nov. 2 at Griffin (GM) Rockdale County Bulldogs Aug. 17 Eagle’s Landing

2018 High school Football Preview

Aug. 23 at Alcovy (SH) Aug. 31 at Discovery Sept. 7 at Heritage-Conyers Sept. 21 Dacula Sept. 28 at Shiloh Oct. 12 at South Gwinnett Oct. 19 Archer Oct. 26 Grayson Nov. 2 Newton Salem Seminoles Aug. 17 Heritage-Conyers Aug. 24 at Coffee Sept. 7 Alcovy Sept. 14 Hampton Sept. 28 at Henry County Oct. 5 Druid Hills Oct. 12 at Eastside (SH) Oct. 19 at Woodward Academy Oct. 26 at Luella Nov. 2 North Clayton Stockbridge Tigers Aug. 24 Arabia Mountain Sept. 1 Carver-Atlanta (TC) Sept. 7 at Locust Grove Sept. 14 Eagle’s Landing Sept. 21 at Columbia (HS) Sept. 28 at Ola Oct. 5 Union Grove Oct. 19 Dutchtown Oct. 26 Woodland Nov. 2 at Jones County Strong Rock Christian School Patriots Aug. 24 at Lakeview Academy Aug. 31 at Union Grove Sept. 7 Jackson Sept. 14 Landmark Christian Sept. 21 Our Lady of Mercy Sept. 28 at Trinity Christian Oct. 5 at Holy Innocents’ (RW) Oct. 19 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Oct. 26 Wesleyan Nov. 2 at Mount Vernon Union Grove Wolverines Aug. 24 at Henry County High Aug. 31 Strong Rock Christian Sept. 7 at Jones County Sept. 14 at Dutchtown Sept. 28 Eagle’s Landing Oct. 5 at Stockbridge Oct. 12 Clarkston Oct. 19 Ola Oct. 26 at Locust Grove Nov. 2 Woodland Woodland Wolfpack Aug. 17 Southwest DeKalb Aug. 24 North Clayton Aug. 31 Jonesboro Sept. 7 at Eagle’s Landing Sept. 14 Jones County Sept. 28 at Dutchtown Oct. 5 Ola Oct. 19 Locust Grove Oct. 26 at Stockbridge Nov. 2 at Union Grove Stadium Guide A: Adams Stadium AV: Avondale Stadium GM: Griffin Memorial Stadium GO: Godfrey Stadium ND: North DeKalb Stadium HS: Hallford Stadium RW: Riverwood High School SC: Southern Crescent Stadium SH: Sharp Stadium T: Tara Stadium TC: Tri-Cities Stadium TO: Twelve Oaks Stadium

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2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 3

henry county

Replacing talent key for many programs

By Luke StrickLand

lstrickland@news-daily.com

New faces will emerge all over Henry County in 2018.

Nearly every program said goodbye to accomplished 2017 classes, making the upcoming season as wide open as it has been in several years.

Many of those players are expected to make an impact on Saturday afternoons beginning this fall. Stockbridge grads Brenton Cox (Georgia) and Marquez Ezzard (Florida State), Woodland grad James Ohonba (Michigan State), Ola grads Chris Rodriguez (Kentucky) and Austin Smith (Georgia Tech) and ELCA’s Tyrese Black (UCF) are among the notable names needing to be replaced across the county.

No team was hit harder by graduation than the Stockbridge Tigers, who saw 25 seniors, including 14 who signed college scholarships, graduate in May, among them Cox and Ezzard.

Stockbridge has become one of the state’s premier programs with a 71-13 record and nine straight playoff appearances under head coach Kevin Whitley.

While most county teams will integrate fresh talent into the mix, one program will be looking to maintain its recent dominance. The ELCA Chargers will enter the 2018 campaign in the midst of a 36-game winning streak and as the three-time defending Class A-Private champions. Head coach Jonathan Gess and his squad will be favored to win a fourth straight title with the returns of several key players.

Dutchtown and Eagle’s Landing High put together historic seasons in 2017, as both programs qualified for the postseason. Eagle’s Landing reached the Sweet 16 but must also overcome an exodus of players from that squad. The same can be said for Dutchtown, although the Bulldogs will welcome back two of the top defensive players in the county — linebacker

4 • August 2018

Kevon Glenn and defensive lineman William Anderson.

The final state playoff team from 2017 — Strong Rock Christian School — also made history last season with its firstever state playoff appearance.

Quarterback Demetrius Knight has committed to Georgia Tech and is poised for a big senior campaign.

Locust Grove hasn’t tasted playoff glory in more than two seasons but appears to be a team to watch in 2018. The Wildcats graduated fewer than 10 seniors and have nearly every starter returning to a defense that figures to be among the county’s best.

Ola and Woodland spent the summer identifying new contributors. Ola’s 2017 class put the program on the map over the last few seasons, as did Woodland’s.

Union Grove is a team moving in the right direction and should benefit from the wide-open nature of Region 4-AAAAA. Chad Frazier led the Wolverines to three wins in his first season as head coach last year.

The battle for Region 4-AAAA became more interesting this summer with the addition of Hampton. The Hornets

Top, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy will try to extend a 36game winning streak in 2018. (Photo: Jeff Hurndon Photography) Above, Stockbridge has made the playoffs in each of the past nine seasons. (Photo: Ben Ennis)

will join Henry County High and Luella in a region where qualifying for the postseason is an attainable goal. Henry County High enters the season with the most momentum following three consecutive wins to end 2017 and with the return of All-County quarterback Jaylon West.

Even though many high-level

2018 High school Football Preview

recruits have moved on to the next level, Henry County has emerged as one of the fastestgrowing football counties in the state. This season, the county will look to better last year’s state playoff total of five.

For sports updates, follow sports reporter Darius Goodman on Twitter @reporterdarius or @HDHSports.

rocKDALe county AnD neWton county

Salem’s roster filled with senior starters By cOLin HuBBard

colin.hubbard@rockdalecitizen.com

Rockdale begins to re-build The lone team to make a head coaching change heading into 2018 was Rockdale County, who replaced Greg Manior with 2017 Bulldog defensive coordinator Jamie Baldwin.

The Bulldogs are coming off of a rough 2017 season. After defeating Berkmar in blowout fashion to open the season, the Bulldogs dropped their last nine games of the season, including all five Region 7-AAAAAAA contests.

The Bulldogs have worked to replace the likes of 2017 starters Dextor Manior (DE/TE), Torezz Alexander (WR), Darius Felder (DE), C.J. Cunningham (DT), Kelston Lackey (MLB/DE) and Sam Walden (C). With about 65 players on the roster, Baldwin will turn to starting QB and rising senior Justin Steele as well as David Baros, who is expected to do a little bit of everything on offense, as well as defense.

Baldwin said he expects his

Salem’s wealth of senior talent includes, top row from left, Keevan Bailey and Devon Reaves; bottom row from left, Tyler Smith, Omarious Burnam and Artemus McCorkle.

(Photo: Eric Goines)

team to take some lumps in 2018, but hopes to come out of the season with some much-needed victories as the Bulldogs continue their ascent back to the top.

Alcovy ready to compete In recent years, it has been Newton and Eastside in Newton County that has dominated the football scene. Each program has rattled off playoff appearances each of the past few years, leaving Alcovy to fend for themselves.

But the season inches closer, Alcovy’s days of being the county’s doormat appear to be over. Outside of the wide receiver position, the Tigers are returning key athletes at virtually every other position on both sides of the ball.

In head coach Chris Edgar’s first two seasons at the helm, the Tigers have yet to win a Region 3-AAAAAA game (0-10). With a ton of experience returning, Edgar expects his team to be much more prepared, and it all starts with the team’s brutal non-region schedule.

The Tigers first five games include Newton (AAAAAAA), Rockdale County (AAAAAAA), Eastside (AAAA), Salem (AAAA) and Colquitt County (AAAAAAA).

Edgar said he isn’t worried about what his team’s record is at the end of those five games as long

as the players are ready for the start of region play. The Tigers go on the road at Grovetown to open region play Oct. 5.

For sports updates, follow sports editor Colin Hubbard on Twitter @ColinHubbard22 or @RNCSports.

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All six Rockdale County and Newton County schools are loaded with upcoming senior talent, but no school has more than the Salem Seminoles. Of the starters on offense, Salem is expected to start seniors at nearly every position including Donald Wilson (QB), Omarious Burnman (RB), Tyler Smith (WR), Makari Pruitt (WR), Lennox Bowie (WR), Reco McDaniel (OL), Xavier Jennings (OL), as well as other rotational players.

On defense, it is much of the same. Seniors on defense who are expected to get extended playing time include DeVon Reaves (DE), Keevan Bailey (DB), Artemus McCorkle (DB), Demiko Smith (OLB), Brad Plunkett (MLB), Lavar Washingon (DB), Eric Hibbert (OLB/DB) and others.

The senior-heavy Seminoles should make for an interesting 2018 campaign — one that head coach Jarrett Laws thinks has the potential to end with a state championship.

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2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 5

clayton county

Individual talents are ready to produce

By Luke StrickLand

lstrickland@news-daily.com

The 2018 high school football campaign is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory for Clayton County programs.

It has been five years since the county has been able to boast such collective individual talent, headlined by Forest Park 5-star defensive end Justin Eboigbe and Riverdale 4-star tight end Jaelyn Lay. Eboigbe is committed to Alabama, while Lay will call Death Valley his home as a member of the Clemson Tigers.

Eboigbe and Lay aren’t the only notable recruits representing Clayton County this season.

Morrow defensive back Jamal Hill, Mundy’s Mill wide receiver Nick Manson, Lovejoy wide receivers Dayton Wade and Jerrod Means and offensive lineman Will Rogers, Drew wide receiver Tyrek Presley and Jonesboro offensive lineman Zach Hayes have shot up recruiting lists this summer.

Yet, the two best players in the county may be underclassmen. Morrow High wide receiver Jimmy Calloway is entering his junior season following Clayton County Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2017. At Riverdale, wide receiver Derwin Burgess Jr. led the county with nine receiving touchdowns as a freshman last season.

Team-wise, Lovejoy has long been the class of Clayton County, reaching the postseason for the eighth straight year in 2018. The Wildcats will welcome back a handful of talented players this year but must replace 2017 Clayton County Player of the Year Zion Custis at running back.

The county’s other two playoff teams from 2017 — Drew and North Clayton — will also be hoping to replicate last year’s success. The two programs are in the midst of their own playoff streaks — Drew has qualified in three of four seasons, while North Clayton has advanced in each of Cap Burnett’s first two

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seasons as head coach.

Morrow didn’t qualify for the postseason last year, but a 5-5 record was the program’s best since 1998. The Mustangs will move up to Class AAAAAA this season, swapping places with Jonesboro, who will compete in Class AAAAA. Both programs believe they are playoff teams heading into August.

Familiar faces will return to the sideline for Mount Zion and Mundy’s Mill in Kevin Jones and Dwayne Davis, respectively. A second-year coach, Martez Edwards, has Forest Park believing again as they return to a region schedule in 2018. Riverdale has plenty of individual talent and Rodney Hackney has been hired to make the most of the program’s current roster. Hackney coached the Raiders in the early 2000s.

As always, Clayton County is home to some of the best rivalries in the state. The renewal of the Jonesboro-Riverdale rivalry only adds to the annual contests returning to the schedule in 2018. New chapters to old rivalries will also be written in

Above, the Drew Titans will look to qualify for the postseason for the fourth time in five seasons this year.

(Photo: Ben Ennis) At left, the county’s two longest-tenured head coaches — Jonesboro’s Tim Floyd, left, and Lovejoy’s Edgar Carson — will grace the sidelines for their respective teams again in 2018. (Photo: Hakim Wright Photography)

Region 4-AAAAAA with Morrow’s move into the classification.

All of these storylines will play out inside some of the best venues in the state. Once again in 2018, Tara Stadium, Southern

2018 High school Football Preview

Crescent Stadium and Twelve Oaks Stadium will be the place to be Friday nights.

For sports updates, follow sports editor Luke Strickland on Twitter @lstricksports or @CNDSportsDesk.

PRESEaSon all-cItIZEn FootBall tEaM LB: Craig Cozbi, Newton LB: Jamari Brundage, Eastside LB: Demiko Smith, Salem DB: Jamari Brown, Eastside DB: Keevan Bailey, Salem DB: Artemus McCorkle, Salem DB: Bryson Wilcox, Alcovy All-Purpose: Adrian Robinson, Alcovy

Heading into the 2018 season, the sports department of the Rockdale and Newton Citizen picked its combined preseason All-Citizen team.

First Team Offense QB: Justin Steele, Rockdale County RB: Omarious Burnam, Salem RB: Taylor Carter, Eastside WR: Mike Mathison, Newton WR: Devron Harper, Heritage WR: Tyler Smith, Salem OL: Kendrick Carlton, Newton OL: Marcus Perdomo, Alcovy OL: Pierce Downs, Eastside OL: Reco McDaniel, Salem OL: Gavin Fletcher, Alcovy All-Purpose: David Baros, Rockdale County Second Team Offense QB: Donald Wilson, Salem RB: Adarius Thomas, Newton RB: Quincy Cullins, Eastside WR: Makari Pruitt, Salem WR: Lennox Bowie, Salem WR: Jerry Mays, Eastside OL: Jimmy Argueta, Alcovy

Second Team Defense DL: Darnell Stainrod, Heritage DL: Kameron Black, Rockdale County DL: James Adams, Alcovy DL: Tyon Bigby, Newton LB: Dalton Whitley, Eastside Rockdale quarterback Justin Steele is one of the first team selecLB: Brad Plunkett, Salem tions for the preseason All-Citizen football team. (Special Photo) LB: Logan Wyatt, Alcovy DB: Khalil Wilcox, Newton OL: Xavier Jennings, Salem First Team Defense DB: La’ken Nettles, Alcovy OL: Devin Durden, Newton DL: DeVon Reaves, Salem DB: Tre’Mond Pruitt, RockOL: Justin Jones, Rockdale DL: Jalen Banks, Alcovy dale County County DL: Tomarkus Woods, EastDB: Kwauze Garland, HeriOL: Dustin Morgan, Eastside side tage All-Purpose: Antwan Goseer, All-Purpose: Andrae Robinson, DL: Ethan Saunders, HeriRockdale County Alcovy tage

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2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 7

elca

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b Above left, Keaton Mitchell, who scored 20 touchdowns a season ago, is one of ELCA’s many key returners from last year’s state championship team. Above right, ELCA’s Johnathan Youngblood led the Chargers with 112 tackles and five interceptions last season as a junior.

(Photos: Jeff Hurndon Photography)

Key Losses: DB Khaleb Hood, RB Josh Mays, DB/WR Tre Douglas, WR Sean Queen, DB Thad Underwood, LB George Shockley, DL Harrison Taylor, DL Caleb Dallas, OL Zack Jones, OL Martin Yates, OL Ethan McClure, OL Gavan George, DL Tyrese Black Key Returners: QB Brayden Rush, RB Keaton Mitchell, RB/ WR Justin Menard, RB/WR Nate McCollum, RB/WR Jelan Pearson, WR Jordan Jakes, OL Evan Zember, K Austin Reed, LB Johnathan Youngblood, DL Marquis Black, DB Jack Buckley Outlook: The Chargers are in the midst of one of the best runs in state history. They will enter the 2018 season as threetime defending Class A-Private champions and with 36 straight wins. ELCA will be favored to win a fourth straight title due to the returns of many key contributors from a season ago.

8 • August 2018

ELCA CHARGERS Team Info Head Coach: Jonathan Gess (10th season) 2017 Record: 13-0 (Class APrivate state champs) Region: 5 A-Private Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 Schedule Aug. 17 Morrow Aug. 24 at Pace Academy

“I can see how expectations from the outside looking in are massive. Our philosophy at ELCA has always been ‘win the day,’ head coach Jonathan Gess said. “When you set your eyes on outside expectations you lose focus on you. When you lose focus on you, you are overcome with anxiety, worry and stress. We are diligent in preaching that today is what matters.”

Offensively, Brayden Rush returns at quarterback after

Aug. 31 at Heritage-Conyers BYE Sept. 14 Holy Innocents’ Sept. 21 Trinity Christian Sept. 28 at Wesleyan Oct. 5 Our Lady of Mercy BYE Oct. 19 at Strong Rock Christian Oct. 26 Mount Vernon Nov. 2 at Landmark Christian

totaling 34 touchdowns last season. He will be surrounded by playmakers, three of whom were a part of ELCA’s state champion 400-meter relay team. Keaton Mitchell (979 yards, 20 TDs), Justin Menard (950 yards, 10 TDs) and Nate McCollum will give the Chargers a three-headed rushing attack.

ELCA will need to replace four All-County offensive linemen from a season ago. Evan Zember, also an All-County

2018 High school Football Preview

selection in 2017, and Cody Carder are expected to step into leadership roles up front.

Gess and defensive coordinator Brett Collier will have some work to do to replace several starters from last year’s defense, a unit that recorded six shutouts, including three in the playoffs. 2017 Defensive Player of the Year Harrison Taylor, along with Tre Douglas, Kahleb Hood, Tyrese Black and George Shockley, were AllCounty performers a season ago.

The Chargers will welcome back a playmaker at each level, starting with All-County performer Marquis Black up front. Senior Johnathan Youngblood (112 tackles, 5 INTs) will lead the linebackers, while Jack Buckley will captain the secondary.

Austin Reed will retain the kicking duties after a solid freshman season a year ago.

PRESEaSon all-clayton/HEnRy FootBall tEaM Heading into the 2018 season, the sports department of the Henry Herald and Clayton News picked its combined preseason all-area team.

First Team Offense QB: Demetrius Knight, Strong Rock Christian RB: Keaton Mitchell, ELCA RB: Justin Menard, ELCA WR: Jimmy Calloway, Morrow WR: Nick Manson, Mundy’s Mill WR: Jaelyn Lay, Riverdale OL: Will Rogers, Lovejoy OL: Zach Hayes, Jonesboro OL: Evan Zember, ELCA OL: Daniel Campbell, Ola OL: Jovante Chapman, Morrow All-Purpose: Derwin Burgess Jr., Riverdale Second Team Offense QB: Brayden Rush, ELCA RB: Derionte Kemp, Drew RB: Yahsyn McKee, Stockbridge

Justin Menard (6) is one of two ELCA running backs on the Preseason All-Clayton/ Henry Football Team.

(Photo: Jeff Hurndon Photography)

LB: Victor Mormann, Locust Grove DB: Jamal Hill, Morrow DB: Julius Wynn, Mount Zion DB: Jay High, Henry County High DB: Ja’Shaun Poke, Dutchtown All-Purpose: Tyrek Presley, Drew

Second Team Defense DL: Matt Brown, Locust Grove DL: Jacob Camp, Locust Grove DL: Deven Brantley, Drew DL: Jalen Pugh, Jonesboro WR: Dayton Wade, Lovejoy Locust Grove LB: Logan Smith, Locust WR: Jerrod Means, Lovejoy Grove WR: Jacquez Bailey, Forest First Team Defense LB: Zion Nkwokocha, Lovejoy Park DL: Justin Eboigbe, Forest LB: Khalil Murray, Drew OL: Jeff Mays, Jonesboro Park DB: Cameron Brooks, Union OL: Philip Wilder, Mount Zion DL: William Anderson, Dutch- Grove DB: Trimarcus Cheeks, Eagle’s OL: Lorenzo Robinson, town Landing Lovejoy DL: Marquis Black, ELCA DB: Kamari Murphy, Mount OL: Jordan Mason, Eagle’s DL: Anthony Britton, Eagle’s Zion Landing Landing High DB: Baylen Sanders, Ola OL: James Crawford, WoodLB: Kevon Glenn, Dutchtown All-Purpose: Nate McCollum, land LB: Johnathan Youngblood, ELCA All-Purpose: R.J. McDaniel, ELCA

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www.elcaonline.org 2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 9

newton Key Losses: QB Myron Middlebrooks, DB Jaison Taylor, DB/WR Rod Kirkland, DB Elija Godwin, DT Darnell Jeffries, ILB James Hardeman, RB Nuru Tinch, DL Jordan Reed, OL Remy Naza Key Returners: WR/DB Mike Mathison, RB/SS Adarius Thomas, OLB Craig Cozbi, SS Khalil Wilcox, OL Kendrick Carlton, OL Devin Durden, CB Dejuan Brown, WR Robert Lewis, SB Jerrol Hines Outlook: The Rams haven’t had a losing season since 2008 and are riding a six-year playoff streak. Since taking over as head coach in 2013, Terrance Banks has a 34-21-1 record and has made it as far as the third round of the playoffs.

For the Newton football program, making the playoffs is no longer good enough. The Rams haven’t made it out of the first round since 2015 and have suffered through two disappointing losses in the first round each of the past two seasons. Banks looks to that as being the main objective heading into the season.

“We want to get back out of the first round,” Banks said. “Last year’s loss to Parkview was painful. It took me and my staff

NEWtoN rAMS team info Head coach: Terrance Banks (sixth season) 2017 record: 7-4 region: 8-AAAAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 Schedule Aug. 17 Alcovy Aug. 24 at Eastside

about three months to get over it. With this team having no big stars on it, a bunch of do-yourjob kids, we believe and they believe they have the potential to go as far as any Newton team has gone.”

The first step that Banks must take is determining a starting QB between seniors Neal Howard and Laterius Stowers.

Neal, a left-hander, played sparingly at QB last season for the Rams, averaging 10.5 yards per throw, as well as posting an 80 QBR. Stowers, a right-hander, comes to the Rams from Mississippi and

BYE Sept. 7 Arabia Mountain Sept. 14 at Buford Sept. 21 Westlake Sept. 28 South Gwinnett Oct. 5 at Archer BYE Oct. 19 at Grayson Oct. 25 Shiloh Nov. 2 at Rockdale County

was a varsity starter for his hometown team before making the transition to Newton.

“It’s starting to clear up a little and we’re kind of inching towards a decision,” Banks said. “I’m going to keep it in my back pocket until Aug. 17 at 7:30. The whole world will know when the whole world has to know.”

Regardless

who takes the first snap, Banks said he won’t hesitate to make a change if the performance isn’t there.

“Neither one can probably afford to have a bad half,” Banks said. “If you get to go out there first play and you keep rolling, I don’t see a reason why he would ever come out. But if someone goes out there and throws three interceptions and makes bad decisions, then yeah, the change of QB’s will happen a lot faster than it has in the past.”

Outside of the QB battle, the Rams land three Newton County Super Six members — Mike Mathison, Adarius Thomas and Kendrick Carlton.

Mathison will be featured as the Rams top skill player on offense, while Thomas is expected to be the first-string RB. Carlton will help anchor an offensive line that Coach Banks expects to be very solid in 2018.

Players with breakout potential include Robert Lewis (WR), Jerrol Hines (SB), Josh Hardeman (OLB), Tyon Bigby (DE) and Deondre Glover (WR).

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M G b Newton’s Mike Mathison (4) and Kendrick carlton (61) are pictured.

(Staff Photo: colin Hubbard)

10 • August 2018

2018 High school Football Preview

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stockbridge

Yahsyn McKee is one of only a few familiar faces returning for Stockbridge in 2018. (Photo: Ben Ennis)

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team info Head coach: Kevin Whitley (ninth season) 2017 record: 13-1 (lost to Buford in Elite Eight) region: 4-AAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 Schedule BYE Aug. 24 Arabia Mountain

Sept. 1 Carver-Atlanta Sept. 7 at Locust Grove Sept. 14 Eagle’s Landing Sept. 21 at Columbia Sept. 28 at Ola Oct. 5 Union Grove BYE Oct. 19 Dutchtown Oct. 26 Woodland Nov. 2 at Jones County

well as defensive backs Nasir Greer, Mike Price and Demaje Carter, all of whom were AllCounty performers in 2017.

Whitley is excited about the potential of his defensive line, led by Kerrick Reese, Steve Esan and Desmond Barkley.

Linebacker Chris Parson will take on a bigger role, while defensive back Jalen Taylor will need to step up following the losses of Greer, Price and Carter.

every day giving everything he replace linebackers Donovan has. He’s athletic, a smart kid Manuel and McKee Bounds, as — it’s just a matter of putting it all together.”

McDonald will lean on 2140 Old Covington Road returning playmakers Yahsyn Conyers, GA 30013 McKee and Isaiah Taylor to create mismatches in the open 770-761-5846 field. Center Jarvis Richardson and guard Caleb Johnson Money Market Account should provide McDonald with Money Market Account *New Rate* *New Rate* experience up front.

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Key Losses: WR Marquez Ezzard, DL Brenton Cox, RB B.J. Riley, LB Donovan Manuel, DB Nasir Greer, QB Gabe McKenzie, LB McKee Bounds, DB Mike Price, OL Austin Donaldson, DB Demaje Carter, K Rico Sanders Key Returners: RB/WR Yahsyn McKee, WR Isaiah Taylor, OL/DL Jarvis Richardson, OL/DL Caleb Johnson, DL Desmond Barkley, DL Steven Esan, DL Kerrick Reese, LB Chris Parson Outlook: The 2017 campaign was another banner year for Stockbridge, which won Region 4-AAAAA before advancing to the Elite Eight and finishing with a 13-1 record.

The Tigers once again will need to reload after losing 20-plus seniors, 14 of whom signed scholarships to play at the next level.

Those players include fivestar defensive lineman Brenton Cox and five-star wide receiver Marquez Ezzard, who signed with Georgia and Miami, respectively. Ezzard was named Henry County Player of the Year last season after catching 13 touchdowns, while Cox recorded 9.5 tackles for a loss.

Now in his ninth season, head coach Kevin Whitley is used to an exodus of talent each year.

“It’s no different than any other year. Every year, we have 25 seniors leave; that’s been consistent,” he said. “The biggest difference this year is the five-star kids we lost.

When you lose names, people tend to think it’ll be different.

We don’t change how we get things done. It’s about getting the next guys ready, and that’s what we’re doing.”

Offensively, junior Jevon McDonald will take over for Gabe McKenzie at quarterback. “(Jevon) got a lot of work this summer,” Whitley said.

“He cares about it. He’s there

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august 2018 • 11

lovejoy Key Losses: RB Zion Custis, QB Jordan Huntington, WR Corintheus Edmonds, OL Solomon Lightfoot, OL/DL Myles Best, OL/DL Lawrence Terrel, DL Malik Astin Key Returners: OL Will Rogers, WR Dayton Wade, WR Jerrod Means, WR/TE Kristian Grant, LB Zion Nkwokocha, DB Anthony Henderson, DB Brenden Williams, QB Khalil Arnold, OL Lorenzo Robinson Outlook: Lovejoy qualified for the state playoffs for the eighth straight year in 2017, the longest such streak in Clayton County.

The Wildcats shattered offensive records last season due to the performance of running back Zion Custis, who earned county Offensive Player of the Year honors after rushing for 1,978 yards and 28 touchdowns. Quarterback Jordan Huntington, another All-County performer, transferred to Stephenson this offseason, paving the way for junior Khalil Arnold to take over in 2018.

“Khalil has done a good job all summer long,” head coach Edgar Carson said. “He’s going to have some growing pains, probably, but we’re willing to go through those.

He’s proven he can lead this team this summer, but we’ll see what happens when the pads come on.”

Replacing Custis is impossible, but Carson said he’s confident that a stable of backs can produce, especially senior Brenden Williams. The wide receiving duo of Dayton Wade and Jerrod Means combined for more than 1,000 yards last season despite the former missing half of the season due to injury. The widely recruited Will Rogers returns to lead an offensive line, replacing three All-County performers from 2017.

“We have got to get consistency out of the quarterback position, and a lot of that is

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LOVEJOY WILDCATS Team Info Head Coach: Edgar Carson (fifth season) 2017 Record: 6-5 (lost to Grovetown in first round) Region: 4-AAAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 Schedule Aug. 17 at Banneker Aug. 24 Mundy’s Mill BYE Sept. 6 Drew Sept. 14 at Southwest DeKalb Sept. 21 Morrow Sept. 28 at Tucker Oct. 5 M.L. King Oct. 12 at Mount Zion BYE Oct. 26 at Stephenson Nov. 2 at Forest Park

working on timing,” Carson said. “Up front, we have to get better, too. We lost three offensive linemen that are going on to play college football. A lot of that is making sure they are on the same page.”

Defensively, Zion Nkwo-

Above, the Lovejoy Wildcats qualified for the state playoffs for the eighth straight time last season, the longest such streak in Clayton County.

(File Photo) At left, Lovejoy wide receiver Dayton Wade is poised for a special season. (Photo: Ben Ennis)

kocha (75 tackles, 12 TFL) headlines a talented group of linebackers. Anthony Henderson and Brendan Williams return in the secondary, while Emmanuel Grant is expected

Visit us online at www.news-daily.com.

12 • August 2018

2018 High school Football Preview

to cause problems up front.

“We played a lot of sophomores on defense, so look for them to step up this year,” Carson said. “We got a lot of guys we like on defense.”

morrow Key Losses: DB Jayson Greer, LB Fred Wright, OL Hiram James Key Returners: QB Kris Clark, WR Jimmy Calloway, RB Tabious Clemmons, OL Javante Chapman, RB Kenneth Robinson, DB Jamal Hill, DL Owein Blas, DL Domonick Dewberry Outlook: As memorable as their 2017 season was, the Morrow Mustangs missed the state playoffs by one game — a narrow season finale loss to McIntosh. A 5-5 record was Morrow’s best since 1998, but head coach Jerome Weaks is hoping his team can take it to the next level in 2018.

On paper, the Mustangs appear prepared to do just that.

The Mustangs will welcome

MorroW MUStANgS team info Head coach: Jerome Weaks (third season) 2017 record: 5-5 region: 4-AAAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 1998 Schedule Aug. 17 at Eagle’s Landing Christian Aug. 24 Forest Park

back 2017 Clayton County Offensive Player of the Year Jimmy Calloway, who totalled 11 touchdowns and 1,622 yards last season.

“Jimmy is clearly one of the best athletes I’ve coached in all of my years of coaching high school football,” Weaks said.

“His phenomenal athleticism allows him to perform on the field

(1,500 yards, 12 TDs).

Morrow’s defensive star Aug. 31 at Mary Persons is defensive back Jamal Hill, Sept. 7 at Mundy’s Mill who recorded 67 tackles, three Sept. 14 Stephenson interceptions and 16 passes Sept. 21 at Lovejoy defended last season. Hill will BYE enter the 2018 season with a Oct. 5 at Tucker handful of Division I offers.

Oct. 11 Drew Defensive linemen Owein Blas Oct. 19 Mount Zion and Domonick Dewberry give BYE the Mustangs strength up front, Nov. 3 at M.L. King but Weaks and the defensive at an elite level against some of staff must find a replacement the toughest talent in the entire for productive linebacker Fred state of Georgia. Jimmy makes Wright (74 tackles, 13 TFLs). effortless, breathtaking plays The Mustangs will move that no matter how many times up to Class AAAAAA from you see it, he still leaves you in AAAAA this season, moving awe. The scariest thing is that into Region 4 alongside several he was only a sophomore and teams from the county.

“It’s awesome. I actually love his best football is still ahead of the competition we’re going to,” him.”

Weaks said. “It’s going to get The rest of the offense is loaded with playmakers, includ- our guys a chance to get some looks because the scouts are going running backs Tabious Clemmons (800 yards) and Ken- ing to be there. I’m excited. Our kids are excited to play supposneth Robinson (829 yards) and edly better competition.” veteran quarterback Kris Clark

Welcome!

Good Luck

We’re proud to be your local school system andon wethe welcome you to Newton County. upcoming Football Season!

Newton County School System XNSP5778

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Morrow junior Jimmy calloway earned clayton county offensive Player of the Year honors last year after recording 11 touchdowns Our mission is to provide educational excellence for all students! and 1,622 total yards. (Photo: Ben Ennis)

2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 13

salem SALEM SEMINOLES Team Info Head Coach: Jarrett Laws (third season) 2017 Record: 6-5 Region: 4-AAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 Schedule Aug. 17 Heritage Aug. 24 at Coffee BYE Sept. 7 Alcovy Sept. 14 Hampton BYE Sept. 28 at Henry County Oct. 5 Druid Hills Oct. 12 at Eastside Oct. 19 at Woodward Academy Oct. 26 at Luella Nov. 2 North Clayton

Key Losses: LB Niccolas Helvy, C Zach Lee, RB Luquan Williams, S Sultan Williams, CB Aaren McGann Key Returners: QB Donald Wilson, RB Omarious Burnam, WR Tyler Smith, WR Makari Pruitt, WR Lennox Bowie, WR/ CB Keevan Bailey, SS Artemus McCorkle, DE DeVon Reaves, LB Brad Plunkett, WR Matthew Moses Key Additions: OLB/ DB Eric Hibbert, DB Lavar Washington, WR Roy Jackson, OLB/S Demiko Smith Outlook: In his second year as head coach, Jarrett Laws took the Seminoles to the playoffs for the first time since 2014 and only second since 2007.

With numerous players returning for 2018, Laws expects his team to be in the mix for a state championship by year’s end.

Of the players listed as key returners for 2018, every single one returns as a senior. From QB, to RB, to WR and DB, the Seminoles are loaded with players with varsity-level experience.

Laws said he commends his players for sticking it out through the tough times and hopes they will be rewarded at the end.

“The one thing I love about these guys is they bet on what I

14 • August 2018

said when I got here on staying together,” Laws said. “We have an opportunity now to really see what happens when you build it from the ground up. But that potential and a dollar will get you a cheeseburger at McDonald’s.”

And while things might not always be perfect in Seminole country, Laws said he always resorts back to something a longtime friend of his used to say.

“Dorwyn Lyles, the head coach over at Charles Drew, used to always say, ‘It isn’t perfect, but it increases the likelihood of perfection,’” Laws said.

“That’s something that I have come to believe in with this group.”

Dating back to 2014, as the head coach at Griffin, Laws has not had a losing season.

In that four-year span, Laws has taken three out of the four teams to the playoffs, but the elusive state championship has yet to come within his grasp.

“We intend on being heavily thought of in the conversation,” Laws said.

“But we have to do it at a daily pace. If I sit in Week 1 and quantify that by Week 15, if the state championship trophy is not on our mantle, then there was indeed a level of failure.”

Laws chalked it up to the behind-the-scenes aspects on what he hopes will get his Seminoles over the hump

and into Mercedes-Benz Stadium by year’s end.

“If we’re great every day in the classroom, if we’re great every day with our prepara-

2018 High school Football Preview

tion on the field, if we’re great at something as simple as moping the bathroom floor in the locker room and if we’re great people, more often than not, our numbers are going to dictate that we are going to win,” Laws said.

Salem’s Omarious Burnam (Photo: Eric Goines)

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mundy’s mill Key Losses: QB Kendall Boney, RB Nick Harmon, OL Toriano Meadows, WR Romario Waithe Key Returners: WR Nick Manson, RB Javion Jackson, WR Rod Jones, QB/RB Raheem Gaines, DB/WR Keyako Moore, LB Savion Brooks, OL Raymon Pearson, DL Chase Welch, LB Demarcus Harris Outlook: Mundy’s Mill head coach Dwayne Davis made several changes to his coaching staff from last season in hopes of giving his program a boost heading into the 2018 season.

“The hard part is finding — talking to other coaches in the county and our region — you got to have people around you that are just as committed as you,” he said during the summer. “That’s the biggest difficulty, trying to find men who are passionate about the game and the work. My defensive line coach Brian Baker is one of the most dedicated coaches

MUNDY’S MILL TIGERS Team Info Head Coach: Dwayne Davis (third season) 2017 Record: 2-8 Region: 4-AAAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2014 Schedule Aug. 17 McIntosh Aug. 24 at Lovejoy

Mundy’s Mill wide receiver Nick Manson caught 42 balls for 574 yards and seven touchdowns as a junior last season. (Photo: Ben Ennis)

I’ve had. Changes were made to hopefully fix that. You got to have people around you that want to have the same success.”

Mundy’s Mill isn’t without

talent, even with the transfer of 2017 All-County quarterback Kendall Boney. Senior wide receiver Nick Manson, a Miami-Ohio commit, caught 42 passes for 574 yards and seven touchdowns in 2017. He and fellow receiver Rod Jones will be prime targets for Raheem Gaines, who will take over at quarterback.

“We’re at a good stage with our veteran players returning, we have a lot of experience and depth coming back,” Davis said.

“Offensively, we’re deep at running back and wide receiver, our

Aug. 31 at Central-Carrollton Sept. 7 Morrow Sept. 14 at Tucker Sept. 20 M.L. King Sept. 28 at Mount Zion BYE Oct. 12 at Stephenson BYE Oct. 26 Forest Park Nov. 2 Drew

skill positions. Also, having a veteran line so to speak, who are back on both lines.”

Defensively, Davis said the returns of Savion Brooks and Keyako Moore will give the unit a lift. Defensive lineman Chase Welch and linebacker Demarcus Harris will also be key to Mundy’s Mill’s defensive success.

“Having them back, we’re really improved on what we’re doing defensively,” Davis said.

“They have a tenacious attitude that creates excitement for the rest of the guys.”

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2018 High school Football Preview PCANH Bohn 8x5 HalfPg Football Guide 2018 Tuesday, June 19, 2018 2:45:54 PM

August 2018 • 15

dutchtown Key Losses: QB/RB Nolan Gomes, WR/DB Trey Dean, RB/DB Chris Joyce, RB Shannan McKoy, RB Jonathan Andrews, DT Deshi Waddell, OL Tadarius Burton Key Returners: QB Arendez Fedd, DL William Anderson, LB Kevon Glenn, DB Ja’Shaun Poke, LB Adonis Ross-Butler, WR Dontavius King, RB Christopher Coneway Outlook: Dutchtown reached the state playoffs in Clifford Fedd’s first season as head coach in 2017 on the strength of one of the top defenses in the state.

Several players return to the fold in 2018, including 6-foot1, 220-pound linebacker Kevon Glen, who led the team in tackles with 95. “(Kevon) understands what we’re asking him to do and he understands what his team will do,” Fedd said. “He understands what leadership and direction that we’re going in and he knows the intensity is higher at practice. He was part of a team last year where he had to learn early what we were wanting to do with this team and he stepped up some last year and he’s doing a very good job this year.”

Glenn will be joined by 6-foot-4, 230-pound defensive lineman William Anderson (14.5 TFL, 8 sacks), defensive back Ja’Shaun Poke and linebacker Adonis Ross-Butler on the defensive side of the ball.

There is more uncertainty surrounding the offense, despite the return of sophomore quarterback Arendez Fedd. As a freshman, Fedd gave Dutchtown an offensive lift down the stretch last season and should only improve with a full offseason under his belt.

Wide receiver Dontavius King, who starred for Dutchtown during a run to the Class AAAAA Elite Eight in basketball, should provide some explosiveness in the passing game. At 6-foot-7 and blessed with elite leaping ability, King

16 • August 2018

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team Info Head Coach: Clifford Fedd (second season) 2017 Record: 7-4 (lost to Starr’s Mill in first round) Region: 4-AAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2017 schedule Aug. 17 at Lansgston Hughes Aug. 24 at Creekside Aug. 31 at Crisp County Sept. 7 Ola Sept. 14 Union Grove BYE Sept. 28 Woodland Oct. 5 at Jones County BYE Oct. 19 at Stockbridge Oct. 26 Eagle’s Landing Nov. 2 at Locust Grove

will be a handful in the red zone for opposing defenses.

Fellow receiver Travon Jones is 6-foot-5 and will also cause matchup problems.

A key position Dutchtown will need to fill is at running back. The team’s three leading rushers – Chris Joyce, Shannan McKoy and Jonathan Andrews — all graduated in the spring.

Senior Christopher Coneway

Above, the Dutchtown Bulldogs are looking to return to the state playoffs in 2018. At left, William Anderson’s (28) return to the defensive line should give Dutchtown one of Henry County’s top pass rushes.

(Photos: Ben Ennis)

played last year and should be first in line for an increase in carries.

“Right now we have a lot of things open. We lost about four or five on defense and four or five on offense. A lot of kids

2018 High school Football Preview

are stepping up,” Fedd said.

“Kids want to get on the field on Friday nights. They had to participate in the offseason training program and understand what we’re doing and get it done on the field.”

henry county Jaylon West returns to Henry County High for his senior season, hoping to lead the Warhawks to the postseason for the first time since 2013.

(Photo: Jerry Jackson)

HEnRY CountY WARHAWKs team Info Head Coach: Morris Starr (sixth season) 2017 Record: 3-7 Region: 4-AAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2013 schedule BYE Aug. 24 Union Grove

and 15 touchdowns as a junior last season.

Henry County head coach Morris Starr mentioned that his offense will take more chances this season with the veteran West Key Losses: RB/DB Eddie eventually finishing 2017 on a calling the shots.

Battle, WR/LB Billy Jerome, WR/ three-game winning streak, nar“Jaylon’s returning,” Starr said.

DB Darius Starr rowly missing the postseason by “He’s done three different offenses Key Returners: QB Jaylon one game. since he’s been at this school, but West, WR/DB Ivan Snipes, DB The Warhawks are hoping to he’s a pretty smart kid and picks Jay High, DE/TE Chris Phillips, ride that momentum into 2018, up on it well. He’s done very well WR/DB Terrance Taylor, OL/DL and with the return of talented in the spring and summer.”

Aaron Mason, WR Orri Roberts quarterback Jaylon West, they With the graduation of leading Outlook: Henry County could return to the postseason for receivers Darius Starr and Billy snapped a 21-game losing streak the first time since 2013. West ac- Jerome, West will try to get the spanning two seasons last year, counted for more than 2,000 yards ball in the hands of the speedy

Aug. 31 at McIntosh Sept. 7 at Spalding Sept. 14 at Woodward Academy BYE Sept. 28 Salem Oct. 5 at North Clayton Oct. 12 Luella Oct. 19 Hampton Oct. 26 at Eastside Nov. 2 Druid Hills

Ivan Snipes and Orri Roberts or to the steady Chris Phillips at tight end. Center Aaron Mason will be back to lead the offensive line. A pair of transfers — Darnell Albright and Kyle Dennis — will get most of the carries.

The Warhawks will also bring back their undisputed leader on defense, safety Jay High, who was an All-County selection last season after finishing with 73 tackles and four interceptions.

Snipes and Terrance Taylor will also be factors in the secondary, as will Phillips and Mason on the defensive line.

NEWTON COUNTY RECREATION COMMISSION 6185 Turner Lake Road Covington, GA 30014 www.newtonrecreation.com

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2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 17

eastside Key Losses: QB/WR Brayden Harper, ILB Rico Ruffin, OLB Jaylon Lackey, RB Tyon Davis, DL Tanner Feeney, DT/G Lamarius Benson, DL Mareka Reid, DT Spurgeon Gaither Key Returners: RB/

DB Taylor Carter, WR/DB JaeAsTsiDe eAGLes mari Brown, QB Noah Cook, LB Team info Jamari Brundage, ILB Dalton Head coach: Troy Hoff (fourth Whitley, RB/DB Quincy Cullins, season) LT Dustin Morgan, WR/DB 2017 Record: 8-3 Jerry Mays, TE/LB Colby ShivRegion: 4-AAAA ers, LB/RB Jordan Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 Rogers, OLB Devin Brown, schedule NT Tomarkus Aug. 17 at Ola Woods Aug. 24 Newton Outlook: Eastside is coming off campaign in which it finof an 8-3 ished runner-up out of region 4-AAAA. The Eagles fell at home in the first round of the playoffs to Baldwin, 21-16, but will return several key components from last year’s team.

The Eagles will start the 2018 season the same way they started the 2017 season — with Noah Cook at quarterback.

Despite only starting less than a third of Eastside’s games due to injury, Cook returns as a junior ready to make a name for himself in Class AAAA. When playing, Cook averaged 11.3 yards per throw to pair with an 81.7 QB rating.

“I think Noah has taken a lot of steps this offseason,” Eastside head coach Troy

eastside’s Taylor carter (Photo: eric Goines)

18 • August 2018

2018 High school Football Preview

Aug. 31 at Alcovy BYE Sept. 13 at North Clayton BYE Sept. 27 Luella Oct. 5 at Woodward Academy Oct. 12 Salem Oct. 18 Druid Hills Oct. 26 Henry County Nov. 2 at Hampton

Hoff said. “He still has a ways to go, but I’ve been happy with his progression. Experience-wise, he has the experience of starting games, which is great. Noah has a good supporting staff, so the good thing is that we’re not putting everything on his shoulders.”

Cook’s supporting staff at the skill positions are deep. Newton County Super Six members Taylor Carter (RB) and Jamari Brown (WR) will carry the load, while Jerry Mays (WR), Colby Shivers (TE) and Quincy Cullins (RB) will see a lot of reps, too.

Carter (DB), Brown (DB), Mays (DB), Cullins (DB) and Shivers (LB) are all expected to make major impacts on defense, too.

“It’s huge because it doesn’t lock you into being one-dimensional or playing one type of way,” Hoff said. “Moving these guys around, whether it be defensively to give us some help or get them the ball on offense, it can change the complexion, and that helps a lot.”

One question mark surrounding the Eagles in 2018 will be the play of the offensive line.

Dustin Morgan (LT) and Pierce Downs (C) are the only two returning starters, but Coach Hoff is confident the O-line will work itself out as the season inches closer.

“There has been a lot of competition (in the trenches),” Hoff said. “There are guys coming back that played some last year. We have some talent, but there are a lot of young guys in the mix. That’s a position that it takes time — probably more than any other spot.”

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locust grove Key Losses: RB Donte Rideaux, DB Yvner Frederic, DL Craven Goodman, K Jack Wilwol, DL Salahssie Donatto Key Returners: QB/DB R.J. McDaniel, RB Cade Powell, TE/DE Matt Brown, WR C.J. Senter, WR Christian Da-Silva, TE Billy Ward, LB Victor Mormann, LB Logan Smith, DL Jacob Camp, LB Tyler Raines Outlook: Locust Grove has missed the state playoffs in each of the last two seasons, but has the pieces to return to the postseason in 2018. The Wildcats lost just eight seniors to graduation.

“Last year, we had maybe five seniors that played,” head coach Clint Satterfield said.

“This year, we’re going to have a whole team full of seniors. A 3-7 record was disappointing, and three of those games could have went either way, but we lost on the last possession. I think that sometimes when you get in those type of games, experience seems to play a key part in it.”

Locust Grove will rely on its defense this season, headlined by a strong group of linebackers in Victor Mormann (95 tackles, 10 TFL), Logan Smith (61 tackles, 7 TFL) and Tyler Raines (50 tackles). Defensive linemen Jacob Camp (51 tackles, 8.5 TFL) and Matt Brown (14 TFL, 6.5 sacks) will give the Wildcats a tenacious pass rush as well.

“We have two guys, well three, with almost four years of varsity experience with Logan, Victor and Jacob, and Matthew Brown has been with me for a few years,” Satterfield said. “I don’t want to leave anybody out but we are hanging our hat on our defense. We’ve got guys with 40 games under their belt.

The gameplan is to try and be rock-solid defensively and just see what happens.”

Quarterback R.J. McDaniel (12 TDs) returns for his third season leading the offense.

McDaniel has built a strong chemistry with receivers C.J. Senter and Christian Da-Silva,

LocusT GRove WiLDcATs Team info Head coach: Clint Satterfield (10th season) 2017 Record: 3-7 Region: 4-AAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2015 schedule Aug. 17 Jackson Aug. 24 Warner Robins Aug. 31 at Camden County Sept. 7 Stockbridge Sept. 14 at Ola BYE Sept. 28 Jones County Oct. 5 at Eagle’s Landing BYE Oct. 19 at Woodland Oct. 26 Union Grove Nov. 2 Dutchtown

as well as tight end Billy Ward. Cade Powell will get the bulk of the carries, while Brown (8 TDs) proved to be a reliable short yardage option in 2017.

“I think (R.J.’s) receivers have stepped up and gotten more comfortable,” Satterfield

Top, senior quarterback R.J. McDaniel, right, is one of many key players returning to Locust Grove in 2018. Above, Billy Ward (16) is a weapon on offense and defense for Locust Grove. (Photos: Jeff Hurdnon Photography)

said. “Really, three of the key guys that came back from last year were new to him last year.

C.J. Senter and Christain DaSilva were new transfers and Billy Ward was just a sophomore. Now that he’s been with

2018 High school Football Preview

those guys a whole year, it’s year two with them. A lot of times what we see, it ain’t always the quarterback, a lot of times it’s the chemistry that you develop between receivers.”

August 2018 • 19

eagle’s landing Key Losses: QB Cam Lewis, RB Justin Robertson, DB/WR Bryce Dewberry, WR Emmanuel Stores, LB Jacob Dormevil, K Logan Friddell, OL Ronald Moller, DL Devontae Lyons, DB Deshawn Masten, LB Cameron Younginer Key Returners: OL Jordan Mason, OL Luke Williams, OL Jeremiah Jackson, WR Jeremy Adams, DE/OLB Anthony Britton, OLB/FS Trimarcus Cheeks, DL/OL Malachi Pittman, DB Antoine Johnson Outlook: The Golden Eagles are coming off a season in which they advanced to the Class AAAAA Sweet 16 and finished with an overall record of 7-5, bettering a 2-8 record in 2016. The program has momentum, and head coach Shawn Jones is hoping to build off that in 2018.

At the forefront of the team’s five-win improvement was quarterback Cam Lewis, who earned All-County and All-Region honors after throwing for 2,000 yards and 14 touchdowns.

The production of Lewis, along with that of running back Justin Robertson, offensive lineman Ronald Miller and wide receiver Emmanuel Stores, will need to be replaced in 2018.

Jones said the quarterback battle is still ongoing as of early August. Whomever wins the job will be able to rely on a veteran offensive line, led by Jordan Adams, Luke Williams and Jeremiah Jackson.

“Let me address the production we’re losing from last year’s team,” Jones said.

“That doesn’t mean it can’t be replaced; that just means it’s going to come from different kids in different areas and probably from a different style. We expect the same thing.”

Eagle’s Landing’s stingy defense also played an important role last season. Players such as Bryce Dewberry, Jacob Dormevil, Cameron Younginer and Deshawn Masten have graduated, but defensive coordinator Tyler Teknipp still has plenty of talent to work with.

20 • August 2018

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EAGLE’s LAndinG GoLdEn EAGLEs Team info Head Coach: Shawn Jones (fourth season) 2017 Record: 7-5 (lost to Warner Robins in Sweet 16) Region: 4-AAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 schedule Aug. 17 at Rockdale County Aug. 24 at Douglas County Aug. 31 Thomson Sept. 7 Woodland Sept. 14 at Stockbridge BYE Sept. 28 at Union Grove Oct. 5 Locust Grove BYE Oct. 19 at Jones County Oct. 26 at Dutchtown Nov. 2 Ola

Anthony Britton (18 TFL, 9 sacks) tormented opposing quarterbacks last season, while linebacker Trimarcus Cheeks proved he’s capable of making plays as well. Defensive line-

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Top, Eagle’s Landing pass rusher Anthony Britton (53) returns for his senior season after recording nine sacks last year. Above, the Golden Eagles lost plenty of talent from last year’s team, but the 2018 squad should be able to rely on a veteran offensive line. (File Photos: Ben Ennis)

men Malachi Pittman and Antoine Johnson are also expected to contribute.

The Golden Eagles will also need to find their next kicker, as the reliable Logan Friddell graduated in the spring.

“We’re looking for competi-

2018 High school Football Preview

tion and, as usual, the right attitude guys and the right effort guys,” Jones said. “We want to get as many kids as many reps as possible. From there, we’ll begin the decision process to put kids in the position where they need to be to be successful.”

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RivERDalE RaiDERs Team info Head Coach: Rodney Hackney (first season) 2017 Record: 1-9 Region: 3-AAAAA last Playoff appearance: 2016 schedule Aug. 17 North Clayton Aug. 24 Drew Aug. 31 at Carrollton Sept. 7 at Miller Grove BYE Sept. 20 McIntosh Sept. 28 at Fayette County BYE Oct. 12 Jonesboro Oct. 20 Whitewater Oct. 26 at Starr’s Mill Nov. 2 at Griffin

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Riverdale wide receiver Derwin Burgess right, caught aug nine2014_Layout touchdowns last season as aPage freshman. amfootJr., and leg gameday 1 8/21/14 5:45 PM 1 (Photo: Ben Ennis)

Walker, Riverdale is home to some of the county’s top talent, headlined by Clemson commit Jayelyn Lay and sophomore wide receiver Derwin Burgess Jr., who caught nine touchdowns as a freshman in 2017.

Quarterback Avaun Rucker will return after cutting his teeth as freshman last season, as will junior running back Phalon Daniels (761 yards).

Defensively, Walker’s absence will be felt, as he accounted for nine sacks last season. Wykevious Thomas will be tasked with leading the defensive line, while Chris King headlines the linebackers. Hackney’s longtime assistant Max Wiltz will head up the defensive unit.

“This group is very hungry to turn around a season that often gave up a lot points to busted assignments,” Hackney said. “The new multiple defenses ran by coach Wiltz will cause problems for upcoming offenses this season, as they have taken on the new ‘Black Swarm’ mentality.”

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Key Losses: DL Dante Walker, RB Jalen Hughes, DL LeMarcus Washington, RB Lee Sims Key Returners: WR Jaelyn Lay, WR Derwin Burgess Jr., RB Phalon Daniels, QB Avaun Rucker, DL Wykevious Thomas, DB Justice Ezeokonkwo, LB Chris King Outlook: A new era for Riverdale football will begin in 2018, albeit under the watch of a familiar face. Rodney Hackney, who coached the Raiders in the early 2000s, will take over for Terry Herrod.

“I know Riverdale, I know the community,” Hackney said when he was hired in May. “They’ll be tough kids and kids that love their community, kids that love wearing the silver and black on their helmet. These kids want to win. I’ve been in programs before where kids don’t want to win. That already makes my job easier. I’ve already handed out some challenges to our senior leaders and am looking forward to where we can go.”

The cupboard won’t be bare for Hackney despite Riverdale’s 1-9 record last season.

Even with the transfer of 2017 Clayton County Defensive Player of the Year Dante

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2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 21

heritage Key Losses: QB Caleb Pruitt, WR Jordan Young, DE Kurott Garland, LB Jordon Bowers, LB Khalil Cooper, WR/DB Isaiah Martin, DB Chris Jones, OL Murphy McElligott Key Returners: ATH Devron Harper, WR/FS Kwauze Garland, QB Jalen Kimble, FB/LB Tyrese Epps, DE Ethan Saunders, OL/ DL Darnell Stainrod, ATH Caleb Clements Outlook: The Patriots are coming off of a second-round appearance in the Class AAAAAA state playoffs, but several key components from that team are no longer with the program. Corey Johnson is entering into year three at head coach and will attempt to make another run at the playoffs with a brand new roster.

At the forefront of the newlook Patriots is rising senior Jalen Kimble, the man in charge of replacing Region 3-AAAAAA QB of the year Caleb Pruitt. Kimble has never started a game in his tenure at Heritage, but the 6-foot3, 180-pound QB has shown a lot of promise this summer.

“He’s more comfortable with him knowing that he’s our guy,” Johnson said. “He doesn’t have to look over his shoulder and feel pressure when he gets in the game. Not having the mindset of him saying, ‘If I don’t do this or that, another guy will be out on the field.’”

Johnson said the biggest thing he has worked on with Kimble is his touch throws and said the goal is to get the ball into the hands of his playmakers as smoothly as possible.

Kimble’s top target on offense will be rising senior and RockHEritAgE PAtriotS dale County Super Six member Devron Harper. While making a team info Head Coach: Corey Johnson name for himself as a receiver in (third season) 2017, Harper will play multiple 2017 record: 7-5 positions on offense and will play region: 3-AAAAAA occasional snaps on defense.

Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 “Devron is a special athlete,” Schedule Johnson said. “We feel like in orAug. 17 at Salem der for us to be successful, we will BYE need to get the ball in his hands. A Aug. 31 Eagle’s Landing lot of people are probably going to do a lot of game-planning for Johnson said while his team Devron, and why wouldn’t you won’t be the tallest, fastest or based off of what he’s done?”

22 • August 2018

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c r n r w d r a T C b Above, Heritage’s Devron Harper (13) tries to avoid a tackle by Salem’s Sultan Williams last season at Evans Memorial Stadium.

(Staff Photo: Shannon Peacock) At left, Heritage’s Jalen Kimble is in line to start at quarterback in 2018 for the Patriots. (Staff Photo: Colin Hubbard)

Christian Sept. 7 Rockdale County Sept. 14 Arabia Mountain Sept. 21 at South Gwinnett BYE Oct. 5 Greenbrier Oct. 12 at Evans Oct. 19 at Alcovy Oct. 26 Grovetown Nov. 2 at Lakeside

strongest compared to some other teams, its ability to change its

2018 High school Football Preview

identity from series to series is what he thinks will set it apart from the rest.

“It is going to make other teams wonder what our identity is,” Johnson said. “When you have to spend that type of time worrying about how we’re going to line up and what formations we are going to run, it forces them to get away from who they are.

Those are the things that I think makes coaching fun. I think my coaching staff likes that type of variation, too.”

luella Key Losses: RB Latrell Murray, WR/DB Reggie Temple, DL/FB Colton Dillingham, RB/ LB Chaz Mayfield, DB/WR Dashaun Wiggins, WR/DB Tijay Brown Key Returners: RB Dejon Conway, DL Trevor Radford, DL Kori Coleman, DL Xavier Burden, DB Christian Clark, QB Jaelen Campbell, RB/LB Evan Stephens, DL Saadiq Smith Outlook: The Lions went 1-9 in Jason Jackson’s first season as head coach, but showed signs of improvement toward the end of the season.

Jackson and the rest of his coaching staff will need to find replacements for 15 seniors, none bigger than All-County running back Latrell Murray, who rushed for 22 touchdowns during his career. Luckily, Murray’s replacement is on campus, as Region 4-AAAA Special Teams Player of the Year Dejon Conway is expected to have a breakout season with more car-

LUELLA Lions

dejon Conway will replace AllCounty running back Latrell Murray for Luella this season.

(Photo: Ben Ennis)

ries.

“We’ve got a few kids that you could say have bought in and turned it in the right direction,” Jackson said. “Trevor Radford, Dejon Conway, Kori Coleman, Saadiq Smith, Xavier Burden and Evan Stephens — those kids are seniors and made a commitment to the program instead of themselves. They’ve done things the right way this offseason to make themselves

better football players and a better team. I think all of those kids I named, plus others, have done what they can do to make this thing better.”

Luella’s leading defensive playmakers — Chaz Mayfield and Reggie Temple — have also moved on. Yet, the Lions should be solid up front with the returns of linemen Trevor Radford, Kori Coleman and Xavier Burden.

Christian Clark will be asked

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Team info Head Coach: Jason Jackson (second season) 2017 Record: 1-9 Region: 4-AAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2016 schedule BYE Aug. 24 Trinity Christian Aug. 31 at Cartersville Sept. 7 at McIntosh Sept. 14 Druid Hills BYE Sept. 27 at Eastside Oct. 5 Hampton Oct. 12 at Henry County Oct. 18 at North Clayton Oct. 26 Salem Nov. 2 at Woodward Academy

to provide leadership in the secondary.

Jackson said he expects position battles to continue into the season, including at quarterback.

Senior Jaelen Campbell played in several games last season.

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2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 23

north clayton Key Losses: DB Marquise McGill, LB Tevin Hull, WR/ DB Brian Brown, QB/DB Keelin Lee, DL Sonny Anderson Key Returners: WR Onuma Dieke, DB/RB Devin Freeman, QB Tyrus Spivey, DL/WR Alex Jackson, OL Larry Williams, WR/DB Isaiah Bell Outlook: Cap Burnett has taken his alma mater to the state playoffs in two straight seasons following last year’s journey to the Class AAAA tournament.

A third straight trip to the postseason will require a young roster to grow up quickly. Burnett expects many underclassmen to get playing time in 2018.

“It’s kind of what I expected, though, with us being young. Even our older guys are inexperienced playing at the varsity level; it’s a young group with just experience at the varsity level,” Burnett said during the summer. “The thing about it now, it’s not so much about gameplanning — let’s teach the guys the skills for the things we’ll be looking for them to do during the season.

A gameplan is so far away from my mind right now, it’s just about getting them comfortable to the way we practice and the skills we’re going to ask them to do during the season.”

The Eagles have returned to the playoff mix by playing quality defense. Burnett’s side allowed fewer than 20 points in seven of 11 games.

The 2018 unit will be young, but Burnett said he’s looking forward to watching it grow.

“Defense, it’s a whole new crew,” he said. “I’m looking forward to the challenge. A lot of young guys will be playing.

I love defense, so I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Defensive backs Devin Freeman and Isaiah Bell played important roles last season and will be back in 2018. Burnett said he was also pleased with the play of defensive lineman

24 • August 2018

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north clayton eagles team Info head coach: Cap Burnett (second season) 2017 record: 4-7 (lost to Thomson in first round) region: 4-AAAA last Playoff appearance: 2017 schedule Aug. 17 at Riverdale Aug. 24 at Woodland Aug. 31 at Rome BYE Sept. 13 Eastside BYE Sept. 28 at Hampton Oct. 5 Henry County Oct. 12 at Druid Hills Oct. 18 Luella Oct. 26 Woodward Academy Nov. 2 at Salem

Terry Essex over the summer.

Offensively, 6-foot-4 junior wide receiver Onuma Dieke has burst onto the recruiting scene this summer.

“I’m looking for a big year from him. He’s getting used to more balls coming his way,”

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above, cap Burnett has taken north clayton to the postseason in each of his first two seasons as head coach. top, Isaiah Bell is one of several players returning for north clayton this season. (Photos: Ben ennis)

Burnett said.

The Eagles will turn to freshman Courtney Colbert at quarterback. Junior Tyrus Spivey could also see playing time as the team looks to replace Keelin Lee. The offensive line returns

2018 High school Football Preview

plenty of experience, led by seniors Larry Williams and Darreyon Thomas.

“All my offensive line is coming back from last year, so I’m expecting them to be a whole lot better. I’m leaning on them,” Burnett said.

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strong rock christian Key Loss: LB Porter Cox Key Returners: QB Demetrius Knight, RB Jackson Wilkerson, WR Nick Hassan, WR/DB Tiger Borom, DB/WR Trey Donaldson, LB Cooper Raxter, OL Wes Jones, OL Jack Greer, LB Cade Howell, DL Brooks Jones, DL Chase Hobgood, DB Mitchell Barton Outlook: The Patriots made school history last season, reaching the state playoffs for the first time with a victory in their final game of the regular season.

Strong Rock’s offense electrified at times, due in large part to quarterback Demetrius Knight. The Georgia Tech commit accounted for 1,700 total yards and 18 touchdowns as a junior in 2017.

“We’re real excited with Demetrius. We feel he was under the radar with everybody and we’ve known all along we’ve got a diamond in him, and he’s an unbelievable student and a great young man and he’s quite talented,” head coach Tommy Webb said. “We’re going to use that and he’s going to use it as motivation to be the best for our team. He’s a team player and it’s never been about him.

“That’s not going to change who he is. I just think that excites the rest of us that we have a D-I prospect. We’re hoping he can instill that in the others with his work ethic and how he approaches the game.”

Knight will be joined in the backfield by Jaylen Blackwell (607 yards, 6 TDs) and Jackson Wilkerson (346 yards).

Nick Hassan, Trey Donaldson and Hunner Lawrence provide experience at receiver, while Wes Jones and Jack Greer are steady forces on the offensive line.

Strong Rock’s top defensive returners are Donaldson and linebacker Cooper Raxter, who recorded 58 and 55 tackles, respectively, last season.

Webb said he expects defensive linemen Brooks Jones and

STRonG RoCK ChRiSTiAn PATRioTS

Top, Strong Rock Christian School will welcome back Georgia Tech quarterback commit Demetrius Knight in 2018. Above, Jackson Wilkerson returns as starting running back in 2018 for Strong Rock.

(Photos: Ben Ennis)

Chase Hobgood and defensive back Mitchell Barton to contribute.

“We return a great group of seniors who have a lot of experience,” Webb said.

“Making the state playoffs also helped our confidence

going into the season. Our expectations are guarded optimism. We play such a difficult non-region schedule with Union Grove and Jackson and we play probably in the most competitive football region in the state.

2018 High school Football Preview

Team info head Coach: Tommy Webb (fifth season) 2017 Record: 5-6 (lost to Calvary Day in first round) Region: 5 A-Private Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 Schedule BYE Aug. 24 at Lakeview Academy Aug. 31 at Union Grove Sept. 7 Jackson Sept. 14 Landmark Christian Sept. 21 Our Lady of Mercy Sept. 28 at Trinity Christian Oct. 5 at Holy Innocents’ BYE Oct. 19 Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Oct. 26 Wesleyan Nov. 2 at Mount Vernon

“I like the makeup of this team. They have used last year as motivation to take the next step. The offseason has been productive and we feel confident going into the first game with Lakeview Academy.”

August 2018 • 25

jonesboro

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Key Losses: RB Matavion Brooks, WR/DB Jaaliq Brown, LB Deighton London, OL Shawn Lawson Key Returners: OL Zach Hayes, OL Jeff Mays, RB Kendarius Hillman, QB Tremir Alexis, DL Jalen Pugh, DB Walter Forte, LB Reginald Potts Outlook: Jonesboro narrowly missed the postseason last year, falling out of the playoff field with a loss to Drew in the final game of the season.

It turned out to be the Cardinals’ final act as a member of Region 4-AAAAAA. Beginning this season, Jonesboro will compete in Region 3-AAAAA. “We will be a better team.

One of our goals includes making the playoffs,” head coach Tim Floyd said.

Jonesboro’s strength is on the offensive line where juniors Zach Hayes and Jeff Mays provide offensive coordinator Nate Wardlaw with two quality building blocks.

They will be asked to make holes for Kendarius Hill-

26 • August 2018

JonesBoro CArdinAls Team info Head Coach: Tim Floyd (sixth season) 2017 record: 3-7 region: 3-AAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2016 schedule Aug. 17 at Mount Zion Aug. 24 at Buford Aug. 31 at Woodland Sept. 7 at Ware County BYE Sept. 21 at Starr’s Mill Sept. 28 Whitewater Oct. 5 at Griffin Oct. 12 at Riverdale Oct. 19 Fayette County Oct. 26 McIntosh BYE

man, Isaiah Rice and Nazim Whitaker, a combination that will replace 2017 All-County selection Matavion Brooks (9 TDs).

The Cardinals will also see a change at quarterback following the transfer of Keyshawn Early over the summer. Junior Tremir Alexis has impressed during the offsea-

Top, Jonesboro’s Kendarius Hillman will be asked to replace AllCounty running back Matavion Brooks in 2018. (Photo: Hakim Wright Photography) Above, the Jonesboro Cardinals will move from Class AAAAAA to AAAAA in 2018. (File Photo)

son and will enter the season as the undisputed starter.

Floyd’s teams are generally strong on the defensive side of the ball. Up front, Jalen Pugh returns following a productive junior season. Walter Forte is the leader of the secondary, while Reginald Potts headlines a seasoned linebacker corps.

“Defensively, we have a

2018 High school Football Preview

number of returning starters,” Floyd said. “I believe we can be pretty good. We will strive to be one of the top defenses in the region lead by All-Region defensive lineman Jalen Pugh and defensive back Walter Forte. The line is solid but lacks depth. The linebacker crew is the most experienced group.”

ola Key Losses: RB Chris Rodriguez, QB Bryce Lawrence, OL/DL Austin Smith, LB Andrew Curry, LB Logan Powell, LB Connor Coddington, DB Ashton Sandy Key Returners: WR Jourdan Cooper, LB Baylen Sanders, QB Hunter Kautz, RB Karl Kennedy, RB Brian Dalton, OL/DL Clay Sumner, OL Daniel Campbell, OL Tyler Rary Outlook: Ola’s 2018 campaign will feature a fresh start with the graduation of the accomplished class of 2017.

Gone are the likes of Chris Rodriguez, Austin Smith, Logan Powell, Andrew Curry and Bryce Lawrence, each of whom were responsible for the program’s

ola quarterback hunter Kautz (File Photo)

rise over the past three seasons. oLA MUSTAnGS Finding a player to replace RoTeam info driguez’s 4,000 career yards and 67 head Coach: Jared Zito (fifth season) touchdowns is an impossible task, but 2017 Record: 5-5 head coach Jared Zito is Region: 4-AAAAA optimistic about the Last Playoff Appearance: 2016 tandem of Karl KenSchedule nedy and Brian Aug. 17 Eastside Dalton.

Aug. 24 at Chapel Hill Aug. 31 Whitewater “Karl has takSept. 7 at Dutchtown en a majority of Sept. 14 Locust Grove the first-team BYE reps. He was a Sept. 28 Stockbridge junior varsity Oct. 5 at Woodland starter and did BYE a really nice Oct. 19 at Union Grove job,” Zito said.

Oct. 26 Jones County “He takes care Nov. 2 at Eagle’s Landing of the football and plays really well in between shows some physicality and toughness. the tackles and Bryan has played some running back and linebacker and will probably have some more quickness and show ability in space. Both of those guys right now share the load but I’d say that Karl has taken the most of them.”

At quarterback, JV starter Hunter Kautz won the job this summer and will take over for the Mercer-bound Lawrence.

“Hunter has been taking a lot of our first-team reps at quarterback and has done a good job,” Zito said. “He’s done a nice job and he’s familiar with the offense and he’s talented.

He brings a different element than Bryce in terms of some of the run-game stuff. He doesn’t have Bryce’s experience yet.”

Zito expects Kautz to work behind a dependable offensive line, led by returning starters Daniel Campbell and Tyler Rary.

“We’ve got some areas that we returned a lot of veterans — offensive line is one of them and wide receivers is another,” he said.

Defensively, Baylen Sanders (57 tackles, 8 TFL) returns, as does nose tackle Clay Sumner and defensive end Jonathan Puckett. With no returners in the secondary, Zito expects Cooper to play both ways this season.

2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 27

alcovy AlCoVY TiGers Team info Head Coach: Chris Edgar (third season) 2017 record: 3-7 region: 3-AAAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2013 schedule Aug. 17 at Newton Aug. 23 Rockdale County

Key Losses: ATH Quindrelin Hammonds, WR/DB Trey Smith, DL Billy Tollison, WR/ DB Nico Johnson, WR/DB Jakob Streeter, ILB Stephon Jefferson, WR Kameron Phuong, WR Jairus Anthony, OL Courtney McCoy, Dee Fanning WR/DB Key Returners: QB Nick Simmons, DE Jalen Banks, DB Bryson Wilcox, OL Gavin Fletcher, OL Marcus Perdomo, ATH Adrian Robinson, ATH Andrae Robinson, LB Logan Wyatt Outlook: Most high school coaches will tell you that it takes two to three years before you start to see real results. For Alcovy head coach Chris Edgar, he’s entering Year 3 and the expectations to win are at an all-time high. With several key components returning, the Tigers are poised to make a playoff push.

Following GHSA region re-alignments before the start of the 2016 season, Edgar and the Tigers have yet to win a Region 3-AAAAAA game (0-10) despite coming close on several occasions. Nick Simmons, who started the last four games of the season in 2017, returns for his senior season. Rising junior twins Andrae and Adrian Robinson return at both RB and DB while Newton County Super Six member Jalen Banks (DE) will anchor the defensive line. Rising senior Bryson Wilcox will add to the depth at defensive back while playing mostly corner.

“It’s playoffs or bust,” Edgar said. “If we don’t make the playoffs, it was a failure as a season.

This school is starving for success. Part of the reason I wanted this job was to try and bring that success, and if we don’t make

28 • August 2018

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Aug. 31 Eastside Sept. 7 at Salem BYE BYE Sept. 28 at Colquitt County Oct. 5 at Grovetown Oct. 11 Lakeside Oct. 19 Heritage Oct. 26 at Evans Nov. 1 Greenbrier

the playoffs, I won’t feel good at all about it. I think we’re more than capable of it, we just have to put the pieces together and hope the ball bounces our way, too. That’s the bottom line to me.”

Simmons completed 54 percent of his passes as a junior on 58 of 107 passing. He threw seven touchdown passes and three interceptions.

Edgar said he expects big things out of Simmons, not only as QB, but as a leader of the offense.

“He wants to lead as much as he can,” Edgar said. “He knows the playbook backwards and forwards and he tries to help some of these other kids that don’t. I’m proud of him going from a JV player to being thrusted into a starting role last year. Since that time, he’s worked hard in the offseason.”

With solid depth at QB, RB, OL, DB and LB, Edgar said the biggest question mark surrounding the Tigers is at wide receiver.

Every starter from 2017 was lost to graduation. Edgar said he expects some underclassmen, as well as some kids like Wilcox and maybe even Simmons to get some reps at receiver.

The Tigers offense will be run by first-year offensive coordinator Damoio’n Wright. In his early 20s, Wright is one of the youngest play-callers in Class AAAAAA after serving as the team’s offensive line coach in 2017.

2018 High school Football Preview

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b y t m h g Alcovy’s Jalen Banks (Photo: eric Goines)

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union grove Key Losses: RB/DB Devin Tumlin, RB Keyon Carter, QB Casey Pattillo, K/P Cade LeJeune, LB Chayton Strickland Key Returners: QB Michael Reese, RB Gavin Johnson, WR/DB Cameron Brooks, WR Michael Ruffin, DL Keyon Smothers, WR Winston Reese, LB Hunter Martin Outlook: Union Grove went 3-7 in Chad Frazier’s first year as head coach, but there is a sense of optimism surrounding the program that motivated the program during the offseason.

“We’ve put in an enormous amount of time into the development of the strength program, players are bigger and stronger than a season ago,” Frazier said. “There is still room for improvement and a lot of work to be done but the players and coaching staff have seen a big shift forward in the confidence of the 2018 team.”

The Wolverines will miss do-it-all athlete Devin Tumlin this season, but there are several talented players returning in 2018. Offensively, quarterback Michael Reese is back for his second season in Frazier’s system.

“With Michael at quarterback and being in his second year in the system, we hope to be able to pass the ball more effectively and utilize his athleticism more in the run game,” Frazier said.

Mikey Johnson, Gavin Johnson and Michael Ruffin will provide the Wolverines with three senior running backs.

Cameron Brooks and Winston Reese will be Michael Reese’s top targets, while seniors Jared Hines, Walker Starr and Brenden Dailey will lead the offensive line.

Union Grove is less experienced defensively, as Frazier expects seven new starters this season. Starr and Keyon Smothers played well up front last season. Junior linebacker Hunter Martin led the team in tackles last season, while

Union GRove wolveRines

Above, Union Grove went 3-7 in Chad Frazier’s first year as head coach, but there is a sense of optimism surrounding the program that motivated it during the offseason. At left, Michael Reese returns for his senior year as starting quarterback for Union Grove.

(Photo: Jeff Hurndon Photography)

Team info Head Coach: Chad Frazier (second season) 2017 Record: 3-7 Region: 4-AAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2012 schedule BYE Aug. 24 at Henry County High Aug. 31 Strong Rock Christian Sept. 7 at Jones County Sept. 14 at Dutchtown BYE Sept. 28 Eagle’s Landing Oct. 5 at Stockbridge Oct. 12 Clarkston Oct. 19 Ola Oct. 26 at Locust Grove Nov. 2 Woodland

Brooks and Jaylen Colbert have experience in the secondary.

“We do not have as much experience on defense going into this season,” Frazier said.

“We will have seven new starters on this side of the ball.

Although we feel confident in the kids we have, experience is always a key component

to playing well as a unit on defense. The summer and preseason will be key for this unit to develop into a stingy

2018 High school Football Preview

defense.”

Cullen LeJeune will take over the kicking duties from his brother Cade.

August 2018 • 29

mount zion MounT Zion bulldogs

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Team info Head Coach: Kevin Jones (fifth season) 2017 record: 1-9 Region: 4-AAAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2009 schedule Aug. 17 Jonesboro Aug. 24 at Starr’s Mill BYE Sept. 7 at Stephenson Sept. 14 M.L. King Sept. 21 at Forest Park Sept. 28 Mundy’s Mill Oct. 4 at Drew Oct. 12 Lovejoy Oct. 19 at Morrow Oct. 26 Tucker BYE

Key Losses: QB Earnest Fortson, RB Edward Turner, LB Ezekiah Burton, DL Jared Preston, LB Justin Darnell, DL Raymon Hill, K Juan Martinez Key Returners: OL Phillip Wilder, OL Raziel Adams, QB Ty Rogers, DB Julius Wynn, DL Kameron Wilson, DB Kamari Murphy, RB/DB Nigel Cole Outlook: The Bulldogs are coming off a 1-9 season but head coach Kevin Jones is excited about his returning group of players.

“Every year our expectations are to be better than the previous season,” he said. “Having a winning record and competing for a chance to make the playoffs are common elements that all go along with being better than the previous season.”

Mount Zion’s offense is built around Phillip Wilder and Raziel Adams, a pair of three-year starters on the offensive line. Quarterback Ty Rogers returns after sharing the quarterback duties with Earnest Fortson, who will look to find Jenaris Clay, Kameron Wilson and Taariik Brett in the passing game.

“Ty has shown great leadership in the spring game and the offseason 7-on-7 competitions,” Jones said. “We are prepared to turn him loose this season to lead our offensive attack on the

30 • August 2018

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Above, Ty Rogers returns as Mount Zion’s starting quarterback in 2018.

At left, Kevin Jones is back for his fifth season as Mount Zion head coach. (Photo: Jerry Jackson)

ground and in the air.”

Jones’ teams play quality defense and the 2018 unit figures to once again be the strength of the team. All-County defensive backs Julius Wynn (5 INTs) and Kamari Murphy (3 INTs) will make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks. Kameron Wilson and Phillip Wilder also gained

valuable experience last season.

The Bulldogs will receive a boost from the returning Nigel Cole, an impact player in the running game and in the secondary.

“Defensively, we did very well last year and I expect us to remain aggressive in our approach,” Jones said. “We have all four starters returning in the

2018 High school Football Preview

secondary so that allows us to be much more creative on defensive. Nigel Cole returns to the team after missing last season.

He started at corner where he didn’t allow a touchdown all season, so now he returns as the new starting running back and contributor in the secondary for next season.”

woodland Key Losses: DB Michael Tanks, K Tommy Herman, OL James Ohonba, OL Shakeel Shaw, RB Kareem Rogers, WR/ DB Dequan Mosley, DB Franklin Jules, DL Artraiz Bailey, LB Lexington Stocker Key Returners: QB Shariif Brown, WR Jalen Mason, RB Christian Cannady, DL Malik Williams, OL/DL James Crawford, OL Dawson Grooms Outlook: The Wolfpack struggled last season in Bryan Love’s first season in charge and will need to replace 21 seniors from that squad, including AllCounty linemen James Ohonba and Shakeel Shaw.

“It’s been a really good offseason with this group of guys and this group has been together because they played JV and had a really good record in JV,” Woodland assistant coach Terrone Owens said this summer. “The freshmen had a good record and have a chance to stay together and they’re buying in. We’ve had a really good offseason with 90 per-

WoodlAnd WolFPACK

The Wolfpack struggled last season in bryan love’s first season in charge and will need to replace 21 seniors from that squad.

(Photo: ben Ennis)

cent of our guys working out and not to mention being in weight training. They’re pushing to not have a repeat of last year.”

Quarterback Shariif Brown will return under center after accounting for eight touchdowns last season. All-County running back Kareem Rogers graduated in the spring, paving the way for Christian Cannady to take over as the team’s main ball carrier. Jalen Mason returns at wide receiver after recording nearly 300 yards

last season.

On defense, Malik Williams and James Crawford give Love a strong base up front to build from.

“The biggest thing is building the right culture for the kids and them understanding what we want from them and us understanding what they can do,” Love said. “We were pressed last year coming in and were behind the eight ball a little bit but this year, having a whole year with these guys and a whole offseason of

Team info Head Coach: Bryan Love (second season) 2017 Record: 3-7 Region: 4-AAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2016 schedule Aug. 17 Southwest DeKalb Aug. 24 North Clayton Aug. 31 Jonesboro Sept. 7 at Eagle’s Landing Sept. 14 Jones County BYE Sept. 28 at Dutchtown Oct. 5 Ola BYE Oct. 19 Locust Grove Oct. 26 at Stockbridge Nov. 2 at Union Grove

seeing them get bigger faster stronger, seeing what they can do well, puts us in a situation where we can play them more to their strengths and tailor our offense and defense around their strengths.”

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forest park The return of senior quarterback Rayshawn Meiser is just one reason why there is excitement surrounding the Forest Park program entering 2018.

(Photo: Hakim Wright Photography)

Key Losses: DL Buck Cooper Key Returners: QB Rayshawn Meiser, DL Justin Eboigbe, WR Jacquez Bailey, RB Quendarious Redden, RB Corzavius Smart, LB Elton Murphy, DL Quincy Taylor, DB Rojuan Dukes, OL Jamari Walker Outlook: Forest Park’s days of being a pushover look to be coming to an end as Martez Edwards begins his second season as head coach. Last year, the Panthers won two games, a tie for their most since 2004.

“I think we’re progressing well,” Edwards said this summer. “Our defense attacked the ball and was a lot more physical.

Offensively, we have an idea of what we’re doing. We have to implement a few more things offensively. It was definitely something to build on for this summer.”

Edwards will welcome back several key players in 2018, none more important than 5-star defensive end Justin Eboigbe, who committed to Alabama during the offseason.

The 6-foot-5, 260-pound pass rusher is poised for a dominant final year as a Panther.

Eboigbe will be the centerpiece of what could be a quality defensive line. Edwards said linemen Quincy Taylor and Charles Jones have impressed during the sum-

FoREsT PARK PAnTHERs Team info Head Coach: Martez Edwards (second season) 2017 Record: 2-8 Region: 4-AAAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2003 schedule Aug. 17 at Lithonia Aug. 24 at Morrow Aug. 31 Tucker BYE Sept. 14 at Drew Sept. 21 Mount Zion BYE Oct. 5 Stephenson Oct. 12 at M.L. King Oct. 18 Clarkston Oct. 26 at Mundy’s Mill Nov. 2 Lovejoy

mer. Linebacker Elton Murphy returns for his senior season, as does Rojuan Dukes in the secondary.

The Panthers should field their best offensive team in recent memory with the return of senior quarterback Rayshawn Meiser, a talented dual-threat signal caller who was named All-County and All-Region a season ago.

“Rayshawn is a very smart kid. He works hard, is a leader and doesn’t ever miss practice,” Edwards said.

Meiser will have the luxury of throwing to the 6-foot-2 Jacquez Bailey, another player shooting up recruiting lists.

Running backs Quendarious Redden and Corzavius Smart are talented and experience. Up front, the 6-foot-3, 295-pound Jamari Walker will lead the offensive line.

“We’re playing the game at the speed it should be played, the speed that is needed at the high school level,” Edwards said. “I don’t know if we realized that last year.”

Visit the Clayton News online at www.news-daily.com.

32 • August 2018

2018 High school Football Preview

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rockdale county Key Losses: DE/TE Dextor Manior, WR Torezz Alexander, DB Mickel Glover, DE Darius Felder, DL C.J. Cunningham, ILB Kelston Lackey, C Sam Walden Key Returners: QB Justin Steele, ATH David Baros, ATH Jereme Faison, DB Tre’mond Pruitt, DE Kameron Black, CB/ WR Antwan Goseer, K Jonas Woodruff Outlook: The Bulldogs are coming off of a rough 1-9 season, including nine straight losses after defeating Berkmar in Week 1.

After a short, two-year stint, Jamie Baldwin replaces Greg Mainor as head coach and several new coaches have been added to the staff heading into 2018.

Rockdale hasn’t touched the field in a playoff game since 2014 and has only had two winning seasons since 2009 — zero since 2013. With Baldwin at the helm, he will turn to several key returning starters to help push them in the right direction.

At quarterback, rising senior Justin Steele is first on the depth chart. After an up-and-down 2017 season, Baldwin likes what he has seen thus far from his QB. “I’ve seen a lot of growth,” Baldwin said. “We try to stay on him as much as possible about his mechanics. He’s put a lot of time and energy into his throwing mechanics, and I’m happy to see where he has come from last year.”

In arguably the most talented region in the state, Steele might be the fastest QB of any team. On the flip side, Baldwin said he still wants to make sure he isn’t just known as a runner.

“We want him to pass the ball,” Baldwin said. “QBs are supposed to pass, but he can run. With the

type of offense we have, he has that option. He’ll pull it when it’s necessary, but when it’s third-andlong, we expect him to stand in the pocket and pass the ball.”

One player in particular whom Steele will look to on offense is Rockdale County Super Six member David Baros. The rising senior will split time at running back and wide receiver and is a player Baldwin wants to see get as many touches as possible.

“David is that solid foundation that we need,” Baldwin said.

“He leads by example, and he has ice water in his veins. It’s important that we move him around so that he can do different things for us. We’re going to look for him to get us those firstdowns and manage the clock.”

The Bulldogs are 0-10 against region opponents since the region realignment two years ago. While Baldwin knows what the team is up against, he hopes to see his team take steps forward no matter what the end result may be.

“I’m proud of the guys, of what they have accomplished this offseason and summer, and I know that we’re going to do some things different this year,” Baldwin said.

If we don’t achieve our goals, that doesn’t mean you haven’t done well, it just means that we haven’t gotten there yet. What I want is for them to be able to compete for 48 minutes, walk off the field with their head up and be able to say that they played hard.”

Rockdale’s david baros (Photo: Eric goines)

RoCKdAlE CounTY bulldogs Team info Head Coach: Jamie Baldwin (first season) 2017 Record: 1-9 Region: 8-AAAAAAA last Playoff Appearance: 2014 schedule Aug. 17 Eagle’s Landing Aug. 23 at Alcovy

Aug. 31 at Discovery Sept. 7 at Heritage BYE Sept. 21 Dacula Sept. 28 at Shiloh BYE Oct. 12 at South Gwinnett Oct. 19 Archer Oct. 26 Grayson Nov. 2 Newton

2018 High school Football Preview

August 2018 • 33

hampton hampton hornets

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team Info head Coach: Chad Ashley (fifth season) 2017 record: 1-9 region: 4-AAAA Last playoff appearance: None schedule Aug. 17 at Fayette County BYE Aug. 31 Sandy Creek Sept. 7 LaGrange Sept. 14 at Salem BYE Sept. 28 North Clayton Oct. 5 at Luella Oct. 12 Woodward Academy Oct. 19 at Henry County Oct. 27 at Druid Hills Nov. 2 Eastside

Key Losses: RB/DB Kelvin Highter, QB/DB Isiah Cherfils, LB/OL Jonathan Perry, OL Grayson Goss, OL/DL Christopher Day, OL/DL Seth Byrd, OL/DL Carlos Pavon Key Returners: QB Jaquari Smith, RB Quantez Futch, K Matthew Slagel, LB Tony Beverly, DB Terrance Hill, LB Chance High, DL/OL Kyle Perry Outlook: Hampton won just its second game in school history last season and was competitive in five of 10 games. A move from Class AAAAA to AAAA should only expedite the program’s growth.

“The expectation is always the same: Go out there and compete and grow,” head coach Chad Ashley said. “Nothing against the teams in our region but it was different at the (Class) AAAAA level. I think we have a chance to compete in all of our games and contests and the kids are excited.

It’s really about getting better and being a champion in everything you do.”

Ashley and his staff will need to replace 17 seniors from last year’s squad, including AllCounty selections Kelvin Highter and Jonathan Perry, the latter of which became the first player in program history to sign a scholarship earlier this season.

“We’re just trying to get better

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above, Jaquari smith (2) returns as the starting quarterback for the hampton hornets. at left, Chad ashley and the hampton hornets will drop from Class aaaaa to aaaa beginning in 2018. (photos: Ben ennis)

fundamentally every day,” Ashley said. “As far as summer goes, it’s a Georgia summer — we’re just trying to get in shape. We got a lot of guys that go both ways, so we’re really pushing them and running and conditioning. So far everyone’s held up good. That’s the biggest thing, get better conditioning and fundamentals.”

Offensively, Jaquari Smith returns at quarterback after accounting for eight touchdowns

last season. He will lean on running back Quantez Futch in the running game. Kicker Matthew Slagel also proved to be reliable last season, making a game-winning field goal against Woodland.

Hampton’s strength is its linebackers, led by Tony Beverly and Chance High, who combined for 90 tackles last season. Defensive back Terrance Hill led the team with two interceptions in 2017.

2018 High school Football Preview

Kyle Perry, Jonathan’s younger brother, provides size and strength on the defensive line.

“On the defense we have some guys on the backend doing a good job and our linebackers Chance High and Tony Beverly have done a really good job stepping up,” Ashley said. “Kyle Perry also brings a significant amount of experience on both sides of the ball and he’s done a great job leading.”

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drew Key Losses: QB Gary Tyner, RB C.J. Davenport, WR Jordan Lee, LB Anthony Menchaca, DB James Brown Key Returners: RB Derionte Kemp, WR Tyrek Presley, QB Thomas Williams, OL Aries Tyus, OL Quintell Henderson, DE Deven Brantley, LB Khalil Murray, DB Blake Page, DL Patrick Johnson Outlook: The Titans reached the Class AAAAAA state playoffs for the third time in four years last season and have some explosive players returning in 2018.

Offensively, Thomas Williams will take over for Gary Tyner at quarterback. Williams played in several games last season and should be comfortable in his new role. He will have big shoes to fill — Tyner accounted for nearly 2,000 yards and 19 touchdowns last season, leading the team in passing and rushing.

“I think Thomas is going to do a great job for us,” head coach Dorwyn Lyles said. “He got in and their and played last year. He may not provide the explosiveness that Gary did in some aspects, but we’ll utilize his skill set and he’ll make smart decisions. We’ll be just as productive at that position as we have been.”

Williams will have the luxury of throwing to wide receiver Tyrek Presley, a player who is garnering plenty of recruiting interest after gaining 700 yards last season. The primary ball carrier will be Derionte Kemp, who scored 10 touchdowns in 2017 while sharing the load with C.J. Davenport.

Aries Tyus, Ahmad Shannon and Quintell Henderson will be tasked with creating holes up front, a position of concern for Drew entering the season.

“It’s not the skill positions normally, it’s the big boys up front. We’re young up front on both sides of the ball again,” Lyles said.

The Titans will welcome back several defensive play-

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Top, Drew running back Derionte Kemp scored 10 touchdowns last season as a sophomore. Above, Tyrek Presley gained 700 yards last season as a junior for Drew. (Photos: Ben Ennis)

makers as well, albeit for a young unit. Deven Brantley (54 tackles) and Khalil Murray (90 tackles) will provide leadership and production, which will be needed with the loss of All-County linebacker Anthony Menchaca, who recorded 75 tackles in just six

games last season.

Blake Page played well in the secondary last season, as did Patrick Johnson on the defensive line. Lyles expects Montrell Henderson to also make an impact on the defensive line.

“Getting the young guys to

2018 High school Football Preview

Team info Head Coach: Dorwyn Lyles (fifth season) 2017 record: 4-7 region: 4-AAAAAA Last Playoff Appearance: 2017 schedule Aug. 17 at Lowndes Aug. 24 Riverdale BYE Sept. 6 at Lovejoy Sept. 14 Forest Park Sept. 21 Tucker BYE Oct. 4 Mount Zion Oct. 11 at Morrow Oct. 19 Stephenson Oct. 26 at M.L. King Nov. 2 at Mundy’s Mill

step in and fill in roles, there are guys that we’re depending on their contribution,” Lyles said. “The younger kids, getting them to know that their role is elevated and to match their effort level with that.

Don’t be surprised if you see some young kids, ninth and 10th graders, playing big roles for us.”

August 2018 • 35

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2018 High school Football Preview