Deerfield-Windsor meets Valwood with winner taking region crown

ALBANY — Deerfield-Windsor has a chance to become the Georgia Independent Schools Association Region 3-AAA champion tonight.

But in order to do that, the Knights must beat Valwood, the region’s defending champion.

Both teams enter with 5-0 region records and a chance to be the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. The consolation prize is not awful as the loser would be the No. 2 seed.

The Knights (7-2) dropped two of their first four games but have gone on a five-game win streak since losing to Westfield. They dismantled Terrell Academy in their last outing, beating the Eagles 38-7.

Deerfield-Windsor coach Allen Lowe is prepared for a defensive battle.

“I think field position will be critical,” Lowe said. “That puts a premium on special teams play and taking care of the football. When you get your opportunities, you better capitalize.”

Valwood (8-1) enters the game having won seven in a row. The Valiants only loss of the year came against North Florida Christian in their second game.

“Against a traditional power in this region, it’s going to be a lot of fun. It’s going to be a fun week as we go for a region championship,” Valwood coach Ashley Henderson told the Valdosta Daily Times after his team’s 17-14 win against Brookwood set up the title showdown with the Knights.

The Valiants have won eight region championships, including the past four, and all three seasons that Henderson has been at the helm at Valwood. Under Henderson, the Valiants are currently 21-0 in region games.

Valwood has lost just four games in the past four years.

The Knights average 33 points per game, while the Valiants are averaging 32 points per game.

Deerfield-Windsor will need to figure out a way to score against a defense that has been stingy for most of the year. Valwood has not given up more than 14 points in their last six games.

“We are excited about it,” Deerfield-Windsor coach Allen Lowe said. “It is a good test for us going into the playoffs. Valwood has a great football team. We will be excited to play and I know they will be. I think it is going to be a good battle for both of us leading into playoffs.”

Lowe said his players are prepared for the game.

“They know they’ve got a great football team coming in and they want to go out and play well,” Lowe said. “I think it is a great tune up for both teams.”