Pick’em: High School football predictions

Last week’s picks were relatively easy, with only one game giving me pause, and I managed to predict all of them correctly. This week, however, presents a more difficult challenge. While I now have a better understanding of our local teams, my knowledge of those outside the area remains limited. We’re set to see some highly ranked teams this week, with Worth County visiting No. 2 Irwin County, Monroe heading to No. 4 Colquitt County, Pelham facing No. 2-ranked Thomasville, and Dougherty taking on No. 1-ranked Toombs County. The question is: do you root for the home team, or do you acknowledge that these teams are ranked for a reason?

Mount de Sales @ Deerfield-Windsor

Both teams endured 1-9 seasons last year, but each has already matched that win total in the first week. The Knights showed significant improvement with a big win over Southland, but this game will be much tougher. Mount de Sales, under a new head coach, defeated Loganville 47-35 on Friday night, with two powerful running backs doing most of the damage. Sophomore Zavion DeShazier carried the ball 11 times for 173 yards and four touchdowns, while senior Eli Fisher added 138 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. “We are going to have to play a good game to beat them, for sure,” said Deerfield-Windsor Head Coach Jake McCrae. “They have a pretty good team with lots of athletes.” With players like Lane Sceals, Cole Jones, Gabe Daniel, Liam Elliot, and Jake Hatcher, the Knights should edge out a win. Knights by 4.

Sherwood Christian @ Vidalia Heritage

During Sherwood’s state title run two years ago, Vidalia Heritage posed a significant challenge. Last year, however, Sherwood dominated, winning by more than 40 points. This will be the season opener for both teams and Sherwood’s first test without All-State running back Easton Enfinger and All-State offensive lineman Jude Peavy. Despite these losses, the Eagles still have weapons, with Tripp Roberts returning for his third season as starting quarterback. Expect the Eagles to come out on top by 20.

Brookwood @ Terrell Academy

Both teams suffered losses last Friday night and will be looking for their first win of the season in Dawson. Brookwood graduated their star quarterback from last year and only managed six points against Westfield. Terrell is in a similar situation without William Massey behind center, but Bryse Peachey showed promise in the season opener. Coach Bill Murdock and his team will ensure the Eagles avoid an 0-2 start. The Eagles by 14.

Hapeville Charter @ Lee County

After a shaky first half, the No. 4-ranked Lee County Trojans displayed their abilities, dominating the second half against Warner Robins. The team is only going to get better. Warner Robins managed to contain Ousmane Kromah’s big runs, but Hapeville Charter is not Warner Robins. Expect a strong offensive performance from Kromah and the Trojans. Trojans by 34.

Monroe @ Colquitt

Monroe’s score against Thomas County Central might suggest a rough game, but senior quarterback Jordan Washington proved to be the Tornadoes’ best chance at victory. Washington threw for 126 yards and rushed for 138, totaling 264 yards against the defending state champion Yellow Jackets. While Monroe will likely improve this week, No. 4-ranked Colquitt County’s depth and talent will be too much to overcome. Packers by 20.

Dougherty @ Toombs County

The Bulldogs finished 11-2 last year and have most of their starters returning, including 6’3″ quarterback TJ Stanley, who threw for more than 2,400 yards and 27 touchdowns. This will be the Bulldogs’ first game of the season, which might allow Dougherty to capitalize on first-game jitters. Coach Uyl Joyner and his staff know this game will be a much tougher challenge than last week’s relatively easy win. While I’m rooting for the Trojans, I believe the Bulldogs will win by 7.

Bradwell Institute @ Westover

Westover will improve to 2-0 after Friday night’s game at Hugh Mills. Bradwell Institute finished 3-7 last year and won their game Friday night over Liberty County. I’m eager to watch Westover play and expect a big win. Patriots by 24.

Mitchell County @ Dooly County

The Eagles showed last week that they’ll be a force this season. With a strong offensive line led by players like Fenadale Hicks, Nickalus Williams, and John Isom, they will only get better. Dooly County doesn’t have the personnel to handle Mitchell County’s size and strength. Eagles win by 20.

Worth County @ Irwin County

Conventional wisdom says to never bet against Irwin County, a team that rarely loses. In recent years, this matchup wouldn’t have been a question, but Worth County has one of its strongest teams in years. If everything goes their way, the Rams could pull off an upset. While I’d love to see it happen, I think the Indians take this game by 12.

Pelham @ Thomasville

As a Pelham alum, I’m rooting for the Hornets, and I believe Coach Leonard Guyton will have them ready. However, Thomasville is always a tough opponent, and having just dropped from AAA to A, they likely have more depth. The Bulldogs will be too much for Pelham. Bulldogs by 10.