I hope everyone had a great holiday season. I have had several of my 20 readers give heavy suggestions on what to do to improve my blog over the next year, and I am going to take them all and think about them, and probably follow through. I would like for this blog to continue to grow. I do it for the enjoyment of writing and I like for folks to read. Sometimes I think I put some good stuff on paper. Other times I read it and don't like it at all Here is striving to put things on the blog that people will read and enjoy.
I have to finish this football season stuff first with the Battle of Macon, which did not generate quite as much interest as I thought it would. But I have to finish it lol
SEMI-FINALS
WESTSIDE VS CENTRAL- This game has already been played this year and it was a classic. Central came within an eyelash of becoming the first Macon school to knock the Seminoles off but could not quite get it done. That was really the story for the Chargers all year. I would expect the same in this game. Westside seemed to get better and better as the year went by and I don't know if I could say that about Central. The Seminoles would be all over Derrick Evans (my favorite high school athlete in the city this year) and Savion to Stevie and Gerimie would be way too much this time. I am thinking that Westside would roll this time
Westside 34 Central 20
STRATFORD VS HOWARD- I would pay to see this game. Hester vs Fariba is a classic matchup any way you look at it. Howard is big with the ability to throw the football , which means they would be testing Cephus and O'Showen all night long. To me O'Showen is the key to this game on both sides of the ball .Sure QT (Cephus) would be matched up against Alphonzo Stephens , who will get his against anyone, but O'Showen will have to make plays on both sides of the ball. I am not sure how this game would go, but for the sake of having a different matchup than we have already seen, I am taking Stratford on a touchdown in the last minute of the game to pull of what many would consider an upset. The Huskies have found a way to lose close games this year and a turnover cost them this one.
Stratford 28 Howard 26
CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
PLAYED AT MERCER OF COURSE
STRATFORD VS WESTSIDE- I THINK this is a game everyone would love to see, but I feel like it would not be too enjoyable for the Eagles. I feel like Westside is too big and too quick and although Stratford would find a way to keep it close for a half, the Noles would pass it all over them. Gerimie Mitchell is a difference make, and next to Derrick Evans, is the best player in Macon. The kid is only 5'8 at the most and he played quarterback when he had to this year and did a good job. Stratford has no one that could handle him and Westside remains undefeated against teams from Macon
Westside 33 Stratford 17
Monday, December 28, 2015
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
2nd round battle of Macon and a little basketball talk
Hello all
I know it has been over a week since my last I have at my real job and really have not had time.
Since we last talked, I have seen two high school basketball games and have come to a few realizations already
they are as follows
Warner Robins is loaded and while Callaway is the no doubt leader of the team, they have a sophomore who could be even better than him . In fact he may be better right now. The Nelson kid can really play. I think I saw 6 dunks by the Demons in the HOCO game and they are a very exciting team.
I also saw SW and NE and the Raiders have not yet won a game but they are young and talented and will get better as the year goes by. SW was in a close game with them but Justin Slocum put it in another gear in the second half and that game was over. You will be hearing all year about the Slocum, Hargrove combination and I am sure both of them will be high on the upcoming top 10 list.
Amazingly, it is possible that Derrick Evans is not the best basketball player in Macon this year. We have loads of talent
NOw the second round of the Battle of Macon
Covenant- Westside- This is just an unfortunate draw for the Ramd who might be able to play with many of the other teams in this tournament. But we are talking Westside, the premier program in the area, and this upset would not only not happen, I am afraid it would get nasty. I don't even know if people would want this game to be play. Oh that is except for Covenant nation. They would want it to happen.
Westside 63 Covenant 14
Central - FPD - I believe these guys played a practice game before the regular season started and I heard it was competitive. I think this would be a great game because the Vikings improved a lot during the season and I am not sure how much Central improved. Lets say the Chargers jump out to an early lead of 14-0 but the Vikings don't quit and came back to make it a 14-7 game at the half. In the end though, my guy Derrick Evans would not let this one slip away and Central hold on
Central 26 FPD 21
Stratford- Southwest
SW did not make the move they wanted to make this year and they are looking for a little bit of redemption against Stratford, who went on quite a roll at the end of the season. Who would pay to see two of the best athletes in Macon, Cephus and Slocum go at each other. I think both of them score twice in this game and we would see some great battles as Cephus goes man to man on Slocum, I believe Slocum probably wins that battle, but the eagles ability to run the football with that three headed monster gives them enough to win an entertaining game
Stratford 31 Southwest 22
Howard- Tattnall _ Who wouldn't want to see Barney Hester play Tattnall Square ? I think relly everyone would love to see this. That is until the game starts, One team is very talented and one team is very young. Talented beats young every single time. Courvoisier for 350 and 3 touchdowns please.
Howard 42 Tattnall 14
This leaves us with the best 4 teams in the city
the semi final matchups would look like this
Westside- Central
Howard- Stratford
We could pack the Mercer stadium for this double header
Yaal have a good week
I know it has been over a week since my last I have at my real job and really have not had time.
Since we last talked, I have seen two high school basketball games and have come to a few realizations already
they are as follows
Warner Robins is loaded and while Callaway is the no doubt leader of the team, they have a sophomore who could be even better than him . In fact he may be better right now. The Nelson kid can really play. I think I saw 6 dunks by the Demons in the HOCO game and they are a very exciting team.
I also saw SW and NE and the Raiders have not yet won a game but they are young and talented and will get better as the year goes by. SW was in a close game with them but Justin Slocum put it in another gear in the second half and that game was over. You will be hearing all year about the Slocum, Hargrove combination and I am sure both of them will be high on the upcoming top 10 list.
Amazingly, it is possible that Derrick Evans is not the best basketball player in Macon this year. We have loads of talent
NOw the second round of the Battle of Macon
Covenant- Westside- This is just an unfortunate draw for the Ramd who might be able to play with many of the other teams in this tournament. But we are talking Westside, the premier program in the area, and this upset would not only not happen, I am afraid it would get nasty. I don't even know if people would want this game to be play. Oh that is except for Covenant nation. They would want it to happen.
Westside 63 Covenant 14
Central - FPD - I believe these guys played a practice game before the regular season started and I heard it was competitive. I think this would be a great game because the Vikings improved a lot during the season and I am not sure how much Central improved. Lets say the Chargers jump out to an early lead of 14-0 but the Vikings don't quit and came back to make it a 14-7 game at the half. In the end though, my guy Derrick Evans would not let this one slip away and Central hold on
Central 26 FPD 21
Stratford- Southwest
SW did not make the move they wanted to make this year and they are looking for a little bit of redemption against Stratford, who went on quite a roll at the end of the season. Who would pay to see two of the best athletes in Macon, Cephus and Slocum go at each other. I think both of them score twice in this game and we would see some great battles as Cephus goes man to man on Slocum, I believe Slocum probably wins that battle, but the eagles ability to run the football with that three headed monster gives them enough to win an entertaining game
Stratford 31 Southwest 22
Howard- Tattnall _ Who wouldn't want to see Barney Hester play Tattnall Square ? I think relly everyone would love to see this. That is until the game starts, One team is very talented and one team is very young. Talented beats young every single time. Courvoisier for 350 and 3 touchdowns please.
Howard 42 Tattnall 14
This leaves us with the best 4 teams in the city
the semi final matchups would look like this
Westside- Central
Howard- Stratford
We could pack the Mercer stadium for this double header
Yaal have a good week
Monday, December 7, 2015
Battle of Macon begins (football)
Welcome to the only Battle of Macon that we will ever see which involves all 12 high school football teams in the city. It would be great if this would ever really happen , but everyone knows it probably wont. So we have to settle for someone writing it like it really happened. Ha and that would be me.
I seeded all 12 teams. The first four teams get a bye in the first round, and I am sure someone will think that the four I picked probably don't deserve it or someone wont agree with the order of the four. I will say this to those people. I DONT CARE !! I did it from my view and my view only. However, with that being said, I think it is fairly accurate.
Top four seeds which get a first round bye.
1.Westside
2.Central
3.Stratford
4.Howard
Is anyone disagreeing yet ?
Good, I didn't think so,
So lets play the first round games. Remember, this is how it would play out in my brain. Feel free to comment.
#8 Covenant vs #9 Mount de Sales- Covenant as we all know, comes into this game undefeated and basically unchallenged for the entire year on their way to a GICAA State Championship. Mount de Sales improved this year, but could not quite get over the hump. I have not seen either team play, but I have heard plenty about both teams, and I know that Covenant would be bouncing off the walls to play this game. Meanwhile I am not sure how motivated the Cavs would be .Can they stop Khristian Tate and Simmons on the ground ? I really don't think they could. At least that is what I am told. For this reason, I am going to take the Rams in a close 31-27 game.
#7 Northeast vs #10 Tattnall _ Northeast is so so young this year and they got better every single game. Meanwhile Tattnall struggled and ended up having their worst year in forever. But they started to show signs late in the year of getting better, by changing the offense to a pass first option. I admit again that I have not seen either one of these teams play this year, but I am going to think that Tattnall edges Northeast 14-9.
#6 Southwest vs #11 Rutland - I think they played this year and I don't think it was fun for the Hurricanes. It wont be fun this time with Southwest going Slocum to Slocum all night long for a 38-14 win
#5 FPD vs #12 Windsor- I actually think Windsor could keep this game close for maybe a half, but FPD started to figure things out late in the year. FPD takes over in the second half to coast to a 41-20 win.
So our second round matchups
Westside vs Covenant
Central vs FPD
Stratford vs Southwest
Howard vs Tattnall
I wonder if it is a coincidence that Tattnall and Howard hook up in the second round. Barney Hester going against his old school. Did I plan that ?? HHaaaa maybe so. And Covenant gets Westside. The Rams want to play big boy football and I guess they got it. The oter two games are classic matchups that I would pay(ok maybe not) to see. Mark Farriba vs Joe Dupree ?? Woww
Lets play some make believe football
I seeded all 12 teams. The first four teams get a bye in the first round, and I am sure someone will think that the four I picked probably don't deserve it or someone wont agree with the order of the four. I will say this to those people. I DONT CARE !! I did it from my view and my view only. However, with that being said, I think it is fairly accurate.
Top four seeds which get a first round bye.
1.Westside
2.Central
3.Stratford
4.Howard
Is anyone disagreeing yet ?
Good, I didn't think so,
So lets play the first round games. Remember, this is how it would play out in my brain. Feel free to comment.
#8 Covenant vs #9 Mount de Sales- Covenant as we all know, comes into this game undefeated and basically unchallenged for the entire year on their way to a GICAA State Championship. Mount de Sales improved this year, but could not quite get over the hump. I have not seen either team play, but I have heard plenty about both teams, and I know that Covenant would be bouncing off the walls to play this game. Meanwhile I am not sure how motivated the Cavs would be .Can they stop Khristian Tate and Simmons on the ground ? I really don't think they could. At least that is what I am told. For this reason, I am going to take the Rams in a close 31-27 game.
#7 Northeast vs #10 Tattnall _ Northeast is so so young this year and they got better every single game. Meanwhile Tattnall struggled and ended up having their worst year in forever. But they started to show signs late in the year of getting better, by changing the offense to a pass first option. I admit again that I have not seen either one of these teams play this year, but I am going to think that Tattnall edges Northeast 14-9.
#6 Southwest vs #11 Rutland - I think they played this year and I don't think it was fun for the Hurricanes. It wont be fun this time with Southwest going Slocum to Slocum all night long for a 38-14 win
#5 FPD vs #12 Windsor- I actually think Windsor could keep this game close for maybe a half, but FPD started to figure things out late in the year. FPD takes over in the second half to coast to a 41-20 win.
So our second round matchups
Westside vs Covenant
Central vs FPD
Stratford vs Southwest
Howard vs Tattnall
I wonder if it is a coincidence that Tattnall and Howard hook up in the second round. Barney Hester going against his old school. Did I plan that ?? HHaaaa maybe so. And Covenant gets Westside. The Rams want to play big boy football and I guess they got it. The oter two games are classic matchups that I would pay(ok maybe not) to see. Mark Farriba vs Joe Dupree ?? Woww
Lets play some make believe football
Monday, November 30, 2015
Stratford
I had a story to do on Stratford last week and ended up watching the Eagles practice for around an hour last Tuesday, and for that entire hour they worked on the passing game.
If you would have been watching , one would have thought that they were preparing to throw the ball 20 times in the playoff game against Pinecrest.
Wrong
I think they threw it 8 times.
But when you have three running backs that go for over 100 yards, you really don't need to throw it very much do you ?
I really don't know how much good I can say about Mark Farriba and his coaching staff and the way he has prepared his team for the playoffs. It didn't start two weeks ago. It started this summer. Did things work out perfectly for him when he had a quarterback transfer in to him? Sure it did, because Sim Patrick is a big reason why the Eagles are having so much success. But the real reason that Stratford is still playing and no one else in Macon is is Mark Farriba.
And I will tell you something else you may no know.
Stratford is primed to make it to the state championship game.
Let me mention a little bit about last week for Mark Farriba. I believe only Stratford faithful knew that his mother passed away last week. There was no mention of that when I talked to him on Tuesday. I could tell something might not have been just right, but I figured it was the pressures of playoff football. Obviously his heart had to be tugging in several different directions, but football coaches know where they need to be and that was on the football field. But through all of this, after talking to Farriba last week, I had a strong feeling that Stratford would beat Pinecrest.
And then they travel to somewhere they have never been to play a team that had beat THE team in class A private, Mount Paran, two weeks earlier, and Stratford demolished them. I mean they just beat them up and ran it down their throats.
Playoff football, is what Farriba calls it. The kind of football where you have the ball with three minutes left and up 6 and have to run the football for three first downs. The kind of football where O'Showen Williams, Tyler Jordan, and Kasey Sanders pound it until the other team doesn't want to play anymore. That's what the Eagles did to Pinecrest.
Farriba was also quick to say why his defense had trouble stopping people all year long, but all of a sudden in the playoffs, they hold great offensive teams to 7 points. Farriba says it was his fault all the way. He said he did a very poor job of having his defense ready to play. and that it took him a long time to figure out what he needed to be doing on that side of the ball. He said his game plans were poor. Evidently he figured it out at the right time.
So Stratford has played Aquinas twice at home this season and lost both times. The last game was for the region title and the Eagles could not win at home. In fact they got beat up pretty good late in the game. So why would anyone think that they could go on the road and beat someone that has beat them every time they have played in the last two years?
Obviously it's just a hunch, but I saw a look in the eyes of Mark Farriba telling me that his team was up for a challenge. I think the Eagles will win
But if they don't its still been a great year and the Eagles should be proud.
If you would have been watching , one would have thought that they were preparing to throw the ball 20 times in the playoff game against Pinecrest.
Wrong
I think they threw it 8 times.
But when you have three running backs that go for over 100 yards, you really don't need to throw it very much do you ?
I really don't know how much good I can say about Mark Farriba and his coaching staff and the way he has prepared his team for the playoffs. It didn't start two weeks ago. It started this summer. Did things work out perfectly for him when he had a quarterback transfer in to him? Sure it did, because Sim Patrick is a big reason why the Eagles are having so much success. But the real reason that Stratford is still playing and no one else in Macon is is Mark Farriba.
And I will tell you something else you may no know.
Stratford is primed to make it to the state championship game.
Let me mention a little bit about last week for Mark Farriba. I believe only Stratford faithful knew that his mother passed away last week. There was no mention of that when I talked to him on Tuesday. I could tell something might not have been just right, but I figured it was the pressures of playoff football. Obviously his heart had to be tugging in several different directions, but football coaches know where they need to be and that was on the football field. But through all of this, after talking to Farriba last week, I had a strong feeling that Stratford would beat Pinecrest.
And then they travel to somewhere they have never been to play a team that had beat THE team in class A private, Mount Paran, two weeks earlier, and Stratford demolished them. I mean they just beat them up and ran it down their throats.
Playoff football, is what Farriba calls it. The kind of football where you have the ball with three minutes left and up 6 and have to run the football for three first downs. The kind of football where O'Showen Williams, Tyler Jordan, and Kasey Sanders pound it until the other team doesn't want to play anymore. That's what the Eagles did to Pinecrest.
Farriba was also quick to say why his defense had trouble stopping people all year long, but all of a sudden in the playoffs, they hold great offensive teams to 7 points. Farriba says it was his fault all the way. He said he did a very poor job of having his defense ready to play. and that it took him a long time to figure out what he needed to be doing on that side of the ball. He said his game plans were poor. Evidently he figured it out at the right time.
So Stratford has played Aquinas twice at home this season and lost both times. The last game was for the region title and the Eagles could not win at home. In fact they got beat up pretty good late in the game. So why would anyone think that they could go on the road and beat someone that has beat them every time they have played in the last two years?
Obviously it's just a hunch, but I saw a look in the eyes of Mark Farriba telling me that his team was up for a challenge. I think the Eagles will win
But if they don't its still been a great year and the Eagles should be proud.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
football picke ems for the week
I will continue to write, even though the number of people who are reading has dwindled to me, my wife (sometimes), two or three friends, two Stratford people, and maybe one or two others. I can say that I don't write this for people to read but for the enjoyment of putting my thoughts on paper. However, I would be lying. I write because I like folks to like what I write. Although I must be failing, I will continue to move forward and try to win some people over.
High School games this week
Mays- Houston County - I will not act like I know that much about Mays, because I don't. I know that they knocked Jones County out of the playoffs a year ago on a miracle play by a quarterback that has since graduated. It is a play that still haunts Torrez Finney(best interview of all time)because Torrez had hands on the qb as he made the play.
Mays miracles stop here at the hands of Jake Fromm
HOCO 34 Mays 20
Marist- Mary Persons- Mary Persons is an odd team because they beat quality teams all year in the region and then struggle in the playoffs. However they did survive the first round against a four seed and now they run into Marist. I will not it here and lie and tell you I know much about Marist football, but I think that they may head into Forsyth and sneak out with a win
Marist 16 Mary Persons 13
Westside-Sonoraville - Spoon Risper told me a few weeks ago that he felt good about his team and right after that they knock off a one seed and live to play another football game. I wont lie to you and say I know much about Senoraville, but I know that Savion Knowlton, Gerimie Mitchell and Steve Dolphus will not let the Seminoles lose this game
Westside 28 Senoraville 20
FPD- Prince Avenue- It was about a month ago when I was riding around Athens and came across something that looked like a college campus and it took me about three minutes to figure out that it was Prince Avenue. I swear this place is nicer than 3 of the 5 colleges I attended. So, if a school can have a campus like that, I am sure they can get good football players to come to that school. I mean they had Mark Farriba for many years. FPD puts up a fight, but they are in another league this weekend
Prince 36 FPD 22
Stratford- Calvary Day - I imagine my friends at Stratford are not real happy about losing the region championship at home, and they have had a few weeks to get over that sting. Meanwhile Cephus signs with Wisconsin and a few of their kids particiapate in the one act play at school . One thing is for sure, Coach Farriba will have his kids acting like football players on Friday night. Cephus is contained but my guy O'Showen is going for 200 and two this weekend and I feel an small upset.
Stratford 30 Calvary 28
Creekside- Covenant- I would love to be at this game, but I am heading to Gainesville to watch my daughter swim. Covenant is looking for respect in the football world but they cant get it in the GICAA. Khristian Tate is probably one of the five best football players in Macon right now, and I expect him to do what he wants in this game. I am hoping that Coach Oxford gives him a going away present with 30 carries and about 340 yards. Sure Creekside will key on him, but give the big boy the rock and let him do damage
Covenant 43 Crekside 20
Windsor-Robert Toombs- Jimmy Watts is taking Windsor somewhere they have not been in a long time and that is the second round of the playoffs. They have played Robert Toombs and beat them 44-43 about a month ago, so the rematch should be very entertaining. Josh Brooks will have 300 total yards in this game
Windsor 45 Robert Toombs 32
I am wishing all the locals good luck this weekend and feel free to tweet me score as I sit at a swim meet.
High School games this week
Mays- Houston County - I will not act like I know that much about Mays, because I don't. I know that they knocked Jones County out of the playoffs a year ago on a miracle play by a quarterback that has since graduated. It is a play that still haunts Torrez Finney(best interview of all time)because Torrez had hands on the qb as he made the play.
Mays miracles stop here at the hands of Jake Fromm
HOCO 34 Mays 20
Marist- Mary Persons- Mary Persons is an odd team because they beat quality teams all year in the region and then struggle in the playoffs. However they did survive the first round against a four seed and now they run into Marist. I will not it here and lie and tell you I know much about Marist football, but I think that they may head into Forsyth and sneak out with a win
Marist 16 Mary Persons 13
Westside-Sonoraville - Spoon Risper told me a few weeks ago that he felt good about his team and right after that they knock off a one seed and live to play another football game. I wont lie to you and say I know much about Senoraville, but I know that Savion Knowlton, Gerimie Mitchell and Steve Dolphus will not let the Seminoles lose this game
Westside 28 Senoraville 20
FPD- Prince Avenue- It was about a month ago when I was riding around Athens and came across something that looked like a college campus and it took me about three minutes to figure out that it was Prince Avenue. I swear this place is nicer than 3 of the 5 colleges I attended. So, if a school can have a campus like that, I am sure they can get good football players to come to that school. I mean they had Mark Farriba for many years. FPD puts up a fight, but they are in another league this weekend
Prince 36 FPD 22
Stratford- Calvary Day - I imagine my friends at Stratford are not real happy about losing the region championship at home, and they have had a few weeks to get over that sting. Meanwhile Cephus signs with Wisconsin and a few of their kids particiapate in the one act play at school . One thing is for sure, Coach Farriba will have his kids acting like football players on Friday night. Cephus is contained but my guy O'Showen is going for 200 and two this weekend and I feel an small upset.
Stratford 30 Calvary 28
Creekside- Covenant- I would love to be at this game, but I am heading to Gainesville to watch my daughter swim. Covenant is looking for respect in the football world but they cant get it in the GICAA. Khristian Tate is probably one of the five best football players in Macon right now, and I expect him to do what he wants in this game. I am hoping that Coach Oxford gives him a going away present with 30 carries and about 340 yards. Sure Creekside will key on him, but give the big boy the rock and let him do damage
Covenant 43 Crekside 20
Windsor-Robert Toombs- Jimmy Watts is taking Windsor somewhere they have not been in a long time and that is the second round of the playoffs. They have played Robert Toombs and beat them 44-43 about a month ago, so the rematch should be very entertaining. Josh Brooks will have 300 total yards in this game
Windsor 45 Robert Toombs 32
I am wishing all the locals good luck this weekend and feel free to tweet me score as I sit at a swim meet.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
top interviews of the football season and other stuff
It has been a great few months of football, tennis ,signing ceremonies ,road races, and practically everything else pertaining to sports. In this blog I will talk about the favorite interviews of the high school football season and then about some of the other things I have covered lately.
So I bring to you, the top 10(or more or less) coaches interviews for the 2015 high school football season
** Barney Hester** He would win the coach that I never wanted to pick against because I always thought he would find a way to win. I know how bad he wanted the Huskies to make the playoffs this year because of his seniors, who has helped turn the program around. He fell a little short but it was still a great season. I interviewed him right before the West Laurens game when they had just won their fourth game in a row. By this time of the year he was in that Tattnall mode where he expected to win every game. It didn't quite work out that way and it probably would have been different if he had not lost his best running back, but it was still a great year.
**Greg Moore** He would definitely win the award for thinking out his answers before he responds to a question. I interviewed him maybe four times this season, twice in his office and twice on the field, and he did admit after the Stratford game that his kids needed to find a groove, but he usually talks about the fact that he, as a coach , has to do a better job of coaching his kids. He an old Alabama guy, but he acts more Mark Richt than Nick Saban and that's a good thing.
**Mark Farriba** He is one of my favorites (now) As soon as we got that first interview out of the way (of course a reporter would ask why did you go for two when one would have tied it)and sat down and had some chilli, things have been great. I still want to beat him on the tennis court, but I have heard rumors that he is still pretty much the athlete. I have definitely heard I do not want him on the golf course or the dance floor because he is an award winning dancer, and George Collins (his college roommate) says he has a lot of game.
**Carl Dixon** I love this guy, who is the head coach at Perry. I talked to him for about 45 minutes before the Veterans and Upson game and if you want old school football, he is definitely the guy. He talked about the fact that he would have to make changes next year and not be quite so old school because the kids wanted to play what they see on tv. The man never said that he was having cancer surgery on the next Monday. I wish him a quick recovery. We have recovered from our little run in during the football season and that is how it is supposed to be.
**Justin Rogers** The hottest coach in Middle Georgia. I mean everyone was pretty sure that he was going to go on the road and figure out how to win a first round playoff game, like they did last year, but they couldn't get it done this year. This guy has turned the entire town of gray around by coming in and winning football games. Believe me, there is no place like Gray Georgia on a Friday night for a home football game, and a lot of that is because of Justin Rogers.
**David Bruce** I listened to Coach Bruce tell his seniors that it was a great year and he appreciated what they had done after they lost to Upson Lee in double overtime. Then an assistant walks up and shows him a score on a phone, and Bruce was like "What the heck does that mean, I don't know what that means". The other coach said that since Howard lost that veterans had made the playoffs. Coach Bruce did not know what to think. He hated the fact that his team backed into the playoffs, but was still excited that they were in. It was probably one of the best moments of the year.
**Joe Dupree** I love his enthusiasm and I still think Southwest is not that far away from being a good football team, and I know Coach Dupree wants it now, but he knows he is having to build over years of poor football .He is having to change the entire mentality of a program.I cant text this guy and he is going to respond quickly which is always great for a reporter. Next year coach, next year.
**Spoon Risper** He wins, and he is a great interview. The best moments of a football season are listening to him in a huddle with his team after a win, and hearing him say. There is not better place to be than being a Westside Seminole on Friday night. He is another that always answers right back and basically insisted that his name was Spoon and not Shedrick. The man may be the best football coach in the city and I wish him luck this Friday night.
**Jesse Hicks**Consistently passionate about his kids and always accommodating to me. I had his team several times this year and he is one of the funner coaches to watch on the sidelines. He should be proud of what he has done with the central program in four years.
If I didn't mention your coach I probably didn't cover them this year. My next blog will be about all the wonderful athletes I have covered this year.
Have a good Tuesday everyone
So I bring to you, the top 10(or more or less) coaches interviews for the 2015 high school football season
** Barney Hester** He would win the coach that I never wanted to pick against because I always thought he would find a way to win. I know how bad he wanted the Huskies to make the playoffs this year because of his seniors, who has helped turn the program around. He fell a little short but it was still a great season. I interviewed him right before the West Laurens game when they had just won their fourth game in a row. By this time of the year he was in that Tattnall mode where he expected to win every game. It didn't quite work out that way and it probably would have been different if he had not lost his best running back, but it was still a great year.
**Greg Moore** He would definitely win the award for thinking out his answers before he responds to a question. I interviewed him maybe four times this season, twice in his office and twice on the field, and he did admit after the Stratford game that his kids needed to find a groove, but he usually talks about the fact that he, as a coach , has to do a better job of coaching his kids. He an old Alabama guy, but he acts more Mark Richt than Nick Saban and that's a good thing.
**Mark Farriba** He is one of my favorites (now) As soon as we got that first interview out of the way (of course a reporter would ask why did you go for two when one would have tied it)and sat down and had some chilli, things have been great. I still want to beat him on the tennis court, but I have heard rumors that he is still pretty much the athlete. I have definitely heard I do not want him on the golf course or the dance floor because he is an award winning dancer, and George Collins (his college roommate) says he has a lot of game.
**Carl Dixon** I love this guy, who is the head coach at Perry. I talked to him for about 45 minutes before the Veterans and Upson game and if you want old school football, he is definitely the guy. He talked about the fact that he would have to make changes next year and not be quite so old school because the kids wanted to play what they see on tv. The man never said that he was having cancer surgery on the next Monday. I wish him a quick recovery. We have recovered from our little run in during the football season and that is how it is supposed to be.
**Justin Rogers** The hottest coach in Middle Georgia. I mean everyone was pretty sure that he was going to go on the road and figure out how to win a first round playoff game, like they did last year, but they couldn't get it done this year. This guy has turned the entire town of gray around by coming in and winning football games. Believe me, there is no place like Gray Georgia on a Friday night for a home football game, and a lot of that is because of Justin Rogers.
**David Bruce** I listened to Coach Bruce tell his seniors that it was a great year and he appreciated what they had done after they lost to Upson Lee in double overtime. Then an assistant walks up and shows him a score on a phone, and Bruce was like "What the heck does that mean, I don't know what that means". The other coach said that since Howard lost that veterans had made the playoffs. Coach Bruce did not know what to think. He hated the fact that his team backed into the playoffs, but was still excited that they were in. It was probably one of the best moments of the year.
**Joe Dupree** I love his enthusiasm and I still think Southwest is not that far away from being a good football team, and I know Coach Dupree wants it now, but he knows he is having to build over years of poor football .He is having to change the entire mentality of a program.I cant text this guy and he is going to respond quickly which is always great for a reporter. Next year coach, next year.
**Spoon Risper** He wins, and he is a great interview. The best moments of a football season are listening to him in a huddle with his team after a win, and hearing him say. There is not better place to be than being a Westside Seminole on Friday night. He is another that always answers right back and basically insisted that his name was Spoon and not Shedrick. The man may be the best football coach in the city and I wish him luck this Friday night.
**Jesse Hicks**Consistently passionate about his kids and always accommodating to me. I had his team several times this year and he is one of the funner coaches to watch on the sidelines. He should be proud of what he has done with the central program in four years.
If I didn't mention your coach I probably didn't cover them this year. My next blog will be about all the wonderful athletes I have covered this year.
Have a good Tuesday everyone
Friday, November 13, 2015
Greek Corner Pizza
It has only been a few week ago that me and my wife Betty Sue (NO, Make believe name) went riding around in search of what we wanted to eat for dinner. We went down Tom Hill Blvd and actually did not stop by any Mexican restaurant which is a small miracle since Mexican is Betty Sues number one love in life. But I was being stubborn and I did not want Mexican.
Betty Sue: Ok that's fine John, what do you want tonight ?
John : I don't know something different, do you have a taste for anything ?
BS- (Betty Sue is too much to type): Well I was fine with Mexican
John: Fine we will go get Mexican
BS: No NO its ok what are you in the mood for ?
So you can see how the conversation went. I headed past Ton Hill , where every food place in America stands, and headed down Riverside. Wow that's a great choice when looking for food. Lets see, a few gas stations and a few Waffle Houses, and at the bottom S@S.
FAIL
As I head up Pierce Ave I have no idea where I am ending up. By this time BS was just looking out the window and not really saying anything. We get to Pierce and Vineville and I turn right. Hmm Jim Shaw's on a Saturday night ? No thanks , large line.
Hey how about that building that has been like 4 restaurants in the last 10 years what is it now. Yes that's it
John: Do you want to try this Greek Corner Pizza Place ?
BS: whatever is fine , I said that 45 minutes ago
That is the almost true story of how we ended up at what must be one of Macon's best kept secrets.(or at least it was to me)
Now I will start by saying I am not a huge Greek food fan. I am however a quality food fan, and that is what this food is. We had some sort of garlic bread for an appetizer and it was off the chain good. The pizza was truly amazing and it left us fighting (I won) for the last piece because we just got a small pizza.
I also ordered the chick parm, which is one of my favorites and I think it took two waitresses to carry the plate of food they brought me. It was massive.
Now massive amounts of food is always good, but many times massive does not equal tasty. But that was not true at this place. The chicken was perfectly cooked and seasoned and the pasta was loaded with cheese. Oh my god it was good. And you have to believe this. I could not eat it all and had to take some home.
The desserts looked even better than the main dishes but I had no room left. Everything was very reasonably priced and the service was outstanding.
So the next time you and Betty Sue cant make your mind up on what you want to eat, go to Greek Corner Pizza and I promise you will not be disappointed.
Betty Sue: Ok that's fine John, what do you want tonight ?
John : I don't know something different, do you have a taste for anything ?
BS- (Betty Sue is too much to type): Well I was fine with Mexican
John: Fine we will go get Mexican
BS: No NO its ok what are you in the mood for ?
So you can see how the conversation went. I headed past Ton Hill , where every food place in America stands, and headed down Riverside. Wow that's a great choice when looking for food. Lets see, a few gas stations and a few Waffle Houses, and at the bottom S@S.
FAIL
As I head up Pierce Ave I have no idea where I am ending up. By this time BS was just looking out the window and not really saying anything. We get to Pierce and Vineville and I turn right. Hmm Jim Shaw's on a Saturday night ? No thanks , large line.
Hey how about that building that has been like 4 restaurants in the last 10 years what is it now. Yes that's it
John: Do you want to try this Greek Corner Pizza Place ?
BS: whatever is fine , I said that 45 minutes ago
That is the almost true story of how we ended up at what must be one of Macon's best kept secrets.(or at least it was to me)
Now I will start by saying I am not a huge Greek food fan. I am however a quality food fan, and that is what this food is. We had some sort of garlic bread for an appetizer and it was off the chain good. The pizza was truly amazing and it left us fighting (I won) for the last piece because we just got a small pizza.
I also ordered the chick parm, which is one of my favorites and I think it took two waitresses to carry the plate of food they brought me. It was massive.
Now massive amounts of food is always good, but many times massive does not equal tasty. But that was not true at this place. The chicken was perfectly cooked and seasoned and the pasta was loaded with cheese. Oh my god it was good. And you have to believe this. I could not eat it all and had to take some home.
The desserts looked even better than the main dishes but I had no room left. Everything was very reasonably priced and the service was outstanding.
So the next time you and Betty Sue cant make your mind up on what you want to eat, go to Greek Corner Pizza and I promise you will not be disappointed.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
football and more football
Things are getting down to the end in the high school football season and we don't have a whole lot to talk about. Only Westside and Northeast play in the GHSA and Windsor and Covenant in the private schools so I am having to go into my make believe tent somewhere later in this blog.
Westside has a very tough first round match-up with Laney on Friday night. It is a winnable game and the Seminoles seem to be getting healthy at the right time. Savion Knowlton had a big game in the season ending win against Southwest, so hopefully he is healed, and Mitchell and Dolphus have been consistent threats the entire year. I have not decided who I will pick to win this game yet.
I am very worried about the Dawgs this week. Auburn seems to have found itself and of course it happens right before the game against UGA. Here is hoping that the Dawgs can find a way to win.
Westside has a very tough first round match-up with Laney on Friday night. It is a winnable game and the Seminoles seem to be getting healthy at the right time. Savion Knowlton had a big game in the season ending win against Southwest, so hopefully he is healed, and Mitchell and Dolphus have been consistent threats the entire year. I have not decided who I will pick to win this game yet.
I am very worried about the Dawgs this week. Auburn seems to have found itself and of course it happens right before the game against UGA. Here is hoping that the Dawgs can find a way to win.
I think its time for some fantasy talk. I will not bore you with my 9-0 fantasy football record against some of the most famous people in this area. Ok so maybe I will. Tucker from the TV station (no not channel 13) is in the league , and I beat him. Two National Champion swimmers are in my league and I beat them. Doug , the worlds biggest(not a weight crack)West Laurens fan, is in the league annnnndd, I beat him. Another freelancer from the Telegraph is in the league (rymes with Grad Larrison) and I beat him. The most famous freelancer in the United States is in my league (Hes the one who told me if I blogged about food that restaurants would start inviting me) Rick Limpert and is my league and I beat him tool Those are the main players. We have 10 teams and I have defeated everyone. I have no idea how I got a team with Julio, Odell, and Nuke (first name basis with all those guys) but my receivers have gone off the entire year. Please , call me the GURU and if anyone needs help with having a winning fantasy team, my charge is very small. Its not too late to be a winner
MY Battle of Macon football tournament is my next make believe thing coming up. I now have the teams seeded
1. Westside Seminoles
2. Central Chargers
3. Howard Huskies
4. Stratford Eagles
5. FPD Vikings
6. Southwest Patriots
7. Northeast Raiders
8. Covenant Rams
9. Mount de Sales Cavaliers
10.Tattnall Square Trojans
11. Rutland Hurricanes
12. Windsor Knights
If you don't like where your team is seeded let me know and I may change my mine. This classic will start next week, but you tell me, who would not like to see Stratford play Central, or Southwest plat Mount de Sales. And seriously do you think Covenant would not die to get a chance to play, well anyone that's remotely good?
Let me know, like I said, I may change my mind
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Ko Knows Food (20'S PUB N SUB
OK OK
I WILL go back to sports on Friday for my 30 loyal readers.
But today I am doing the restaurant (sort of) review of a place that I know most have driven by 400 times and never really payed attention to. The name of it is 20's Pub and Sub(or something like that) and it is a bar/restaurant/meeting place/ etc and in case you have always wondered what goes on inside, I am here to tell you
First of all, I will tell yo uthat I have been to this place maybe three times in the last year, with the most recent being on Halloween. After we were done giving out candy, I was looking to drown my sorrows of yet another UGA loss, so I talked my wife and my neighbor into going out and getting some food. I also knew it was a place where we could see Karaoke action because after all, it was Saturday night.
We go to the place right at 8 pm and it was already really crowded. Some were dressed for Halloween, which made it even more interesting. The crowd (I wont lie) was mainly over 40, with a few younger couples mixed in. But that was fine with me, I mean when I say over 40, I mean to say, yes there were some 40, but also some 60, and I would say yes, some 70. So if you are around 50,like me, this is a place you could go to and actually feel young.
Ordering at pubs and sub may take a few minutes. I saw two waitresses who also served as bartenders and they were flying all over the place doing everything. I am talking two waitresses for maybe 100 folks. So I will say , the service was not outstanding. However, with that being said, it was not because these two girls weren't trying. I finally went to the bar and ordered the drinks and food. We had chicken wings, onion rings, and chilli cheese fries. The wings as always were awesome, and the onion rings and fries were served hot and tasty. No complaints at all about the food. It was excellent.
The Karaoke is the real show- I mean where else can you see karaoke on a Saturday night. And they had a steady line of karaokiers. As usual, some could sing and some could not, but it was a show no matter what. Some of them made you go wow, and some of them made you go, WOWW, in good ways an din bad.
I know all of you are wondering, Did I karaoke. The answer is-------No_--- I am not much for making a fool out of myself, unless I am wasted, which I don't really do these days. I drink and I get a headache and I go to sleep. I know, it sucks, but I think it may be common for folks my age.
So in closing
the positive things about 20s pub and sub on Saturday nights are
excellent food
excellent entertainment
feeling comfortable in a bar setting
prices (34 dollars for all the food, plus 5 beers, not all drank by me)
Negative
I wont lie, it was a bit smokey
But besides that it was a very fun night
TRY it, and let me know when you are going
I WILL go back to sports on Friday for my 30 loyal readers.
But today I am doing the restaurant (sort of) review of a place that I know most have driven by 400 times and never really payed attention to. The name of it is 20's Pub and Sub(or something like that) and it is a bar/restaurant/meeting place/ etc and in case you have always wondered what goes on inside, I am here to tell you
First of all, I will tell yo uthat I have been to this place maybe three times in the last year, with the most recent being on Halloween. After we were done giving out candy, I was looking to drown my sorrows of yet another UGA loss, so I talked my wife and my neighbor into going out and getting some food. I also knew it was a place where we could see Karaoke action because after all, it was Saturday night.
We go to the place right at 8 pm and it was already really crowded. Some were dressed for Halloween, which made it even more interesting. The crowd (I wont lie) was mainly over 40, with a few younger couples mixed in. But that was fine with me, I mean when I say over 40, I mean to say, yes there were some 40, but also some 60, and I would say yes, some 70. So if you are around 50,like me, this is a place you could go to and actually feel young.
Ordering at pubs and sub may take a few minutes. I saw two waitresses who also served as bartenders and they were flying all over the place doing everything. I am talking two waitresses for maybe 100 folks. So I will say , the service was not outstanding. However, with that being said, it was not because these two girls weren't trying. I finally went to the bar and ordered the drinks and food. We had chicken wings, onion rings, and chilli cheese fries. The wings as always were awesome, and the onion rings and fries were served hot and tasty. No complaints at all about the food. It was excellent.
The Karaoke is the real show- I mean where else can you see karaoke on a Saturday night. And they had a steady line of karaokiers. As usual, some could sing and some could not, but it was a show no matter what. Some of them made you go wow, and some of them made you go, WOWW, in good ways an din bad.
I know all of you are wondering, Did I karaoke. The answer is-------No_--- I am not much for making a fool out of myself, unless I am wasted, which I don't really do these days. I drink and I get a headache and I go to sleep. I know, it sucks, but I think it may be common for folks my age.
So in closing
the positive things about 20s pub and sub on Saturday nights are
excellent food
excellent entertainment
feeling comfortable in a bar setting
prices (34 dollars for all the food, plus 5 beers, not all drank by me)
Negative
I wont lie, it was a bit smokey
But besides that it was a very fun night
TRY it, and let me know when you are going
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
top 15 (mainly offense ) players in Macon
I am alternating between high school sports in Macon and food blogging. I think it is a good combination don't you ?
Food blog will probably come out tomorrow.
First of all, I will say a few things about a few subjects, because well, I can.
I want to congratulate the Mount de Sales Cavaliers on beating Tattnall Square for the first time in forever. They also beat FPD this year and I wonder if they have ever done that. If so it has been a long time, and Keith Hatcher has the guys playing hard.
I will also mention for a few my opinions on the debate going on about Mark Richt. I know some people are screaming for him to be fired. I can almost see justification for those people screaming for him to be fired. But really, why do people feel the need to attack a person in public forums? I will never understand that. If you want him to be fired, ok talk at work about it and talk to friends about it, but why why why does it have to come off like it is an attack.
Personally, I like Richt and I think he has done a good job as head football coach. It is frustrating to watch what has happened this year. That's what happens when you don't have a quarterback. Brice Ramsey was brought in to sit and learn and be ready to play this year. When the coaches didn't feel he was ready, that caused a panic and that is what has led to this football team underachieving. Is it Richts fault ? Of course it is. But he takes his punishment like a man and I respect that. It is not my decision nor anyone elses except the UGA administration to decide to keep or to fire. So drop it . As for me, I will support the coach of my favorite team and not rip him in social media.
Ok now for the top 15 players in Macon. Everything is getting a little bit closer these days and I almost switched the number one guy
But,
I didn't
1- Derrick Evans- led his team to another win by throwing for 255 yards and a touchdown and he ran for another. Heres the deal with this kid. The Chargers have no running game since Antonio Sanders has been hampered by an injury. That pretty much means it's all on Derrick.And although Central will probably miss the playoffs, its surely not his fault. Dude can play at the high school level, and dude can most definitely play at the college level. Guess How many offers he has ? 10? 15? Derrick Evans has ZERO offers. He told me that Thursday. Here is hoping that things get better cause he is a two sport college athlete. NO doubts about it.
2.Couirvoisier King- The Howard quarterback has thrown for 1800 yard and 19 touchdowns, and ran for close to 500 yards and the Huskies are a step away from making the playoffs for the first time in school history. He has already led his team to its first winning season in school history. He threw for three touchdowns in a huge win over Veterans that kept his team in the playoff picture.
3- Alphonso Stephens- You may barely know who this guy is but he is simply the hottest receiver in the state, with 34 catches in the last three games including a 13-200-3td line in the last game. Oh yes in case you didn't know he plays for Howard. When is the last time a receiver from Macon had over 1000 yards receiving. I cant think of one. This guy is over 1000 already. He makes a big move to number three because he did it on the field and made me recognize him
4. Gerimie Mitchell- So the Seminoles QB is hurt so what happens. The 5'5 inch receiver moves to QB and throws for 233 yards, and almost leads his team to a win over Peach County. I will always have guys like this on my list, because its what you do for the team that is most important,
5- With that being said Steve Dolphus has to be next- He has 38 catches this year, which is a big number for a high school receiver and he has already signed with Georgia Tech. Who knows he might be the next Bay Bay
6- O'Showen Williams- He is averaging 11 yards a carry and has 962 yards but he is not the only weapon. If he was his numbers would be sky high. Watch out for him in the playoffs when they go to him a little bit more. I believe that O'Showen will choose basketball over football (just a hunch) but he could be an excellent college football player. We aren't talking SEC, but definitely next level.
7-Quintez Cephus- Wisonsin, Georgia Tech, and who knows who else is after this guy. If you had asked me last year if he even liked football I would have said no. He never was comfortable playing QB. But letting him use his athletic ability to go get the ball has seen him explode for 692 yards receiving with 12 touchdowns. Don't forget he is a dominating defensive player with 4 interceptions and 36 tackles. Yes I believe that this young man will choose football over basketball, but I dobnt believe he has seen the offer yet as to where he will go
8-Chandler King- Best defensive player in the city
9-Ivory Childers- Evans number one target who went 6-116 against Rutland. In my opinion three years of excellence at the high school level should get him noticed by colleges. Yes he's that good.
10- Savion Knowlton- Did not play in the Peach game but still has 16 touchdowns passing. Westside will need him if they are going to get out of the first round of the playoffs
11-Justin Slocum- The Southwest receiver is a college level talent, but I think he will end up playing basketball.
12-Khristian Tate- The man is putting up huge numbers but he is big and his opponents are not. I just cant rate him any higher than this. I haven't seen him play in person, but I have seen him on film. He is impressive and will probably get a chance to play college football. But I just do not know how he would be if he was at Westside or a bigger school.
13-Dontrez Johnson- Greg Moore , his coach, says he is just the beneficiary of a team turning the corner. Ha that's coach talk for sure. This guy has excited the Vikings football program that was dead in the water less than three weeks ago. Three straight 100 yards games and bunches of touchdowns get you noticed
14-Kareem Warren- dominating Westside lineman, whose numbers look great
15-Daniel Weaver- 6-152 in his last game makes me notice people, but I noticed him a long time ago.
16- Tres Hattaway- do all guy for MDS, 274 rushing, 399 receiving, 42 tackles, 2 INT, where would the Cavs be without this guy
17-Kasey Sanders-740 yards and 9 scores for Stratford and he is like the three or four threat
18- Will McCormick- FPD QB getting it done late in the year and I believe he is leading the Vikings into the playoffs
Honorable Mention
Sim Patrick
Aubrien Kemp
Jordan Slocum
Ahmad Barron
Josh Brooks
Tyler Jordan
Ladarian Womack
Now I am sure I am missing some quality defenders from Howard and other schools, and I am sorry I focus on offensive threats. Sorry lol
Food blog will probably come out tomorrow.
First of all, I will say a few things about a few subjects, because well, I can.
I want to congratulate the Mount de Sales Cavaliers on beating Tattnall Square for the first time in forever. They also beat FPD this year and I wonder if they have ever done that. If so it has been a long time, and Keith Hatcher has the guys playing hard.
I will also mention for a few my opinions on the debate going on about Mark Richt. I know some people are screaming for him to be fired. I can almost see justification for those people screaming for him to be fired. But really, why do people feel the need to attack a person in public forums? I will never understand that. If you want him to be fired, ok talk at work about it and talk to friends about it, but why why why does it have to come off like it is an attack.
Personally, I like Richt and I think he has done a good job as head football coach. It is frustrating to watch what has happened this year. That's what happens when you don't have a quarterback. Brice Ramsey was brought in to sit and learn and be ready to play this year. When the coaches didn't feel he was ready, that caused a panic and that is what has led to this football team underachieving. Is it Richts fault ? Of course it is. But he takes his punishment like a man and I respect that. It is not my decision nor anyone elses except the UGA administration to decide to keep or to fire. So drop it . As for me, I will support the coach of my favorite team and not rip him in social media.
Ok now for the top 15 players in Macon. Everything is getting a little bit closer these days and I almost switched the number one guy
But,
I didn't
1- Derrick Evans- led his team to another win by throwing for 255 yards and a touchdown and he ran for another. Heres the deal with this kid. The Chargers have no running game since Antonio Sanders has been hampered by an injury. That pretty much means it's all on Derrick.And although Central will probably miss the playoffs, its surely not his fault. Dude can play at the high school level, and dude can most definitely play at the college level. Guess How many offers he has ? 10? 15? Derrick Evans has ZERO offers. He told me that Thursday. Here is hoping that things get better cause he is a two sport college athlete. NO doubts about it.
2.Couirvoisier King- The Howard quarterback has thrown for 1800 yard and 19 touchdowns, and ran for close to 500 yards and the Huskies are a step away from making the playoffs for the first time in school history. He has already led his team to its first winning season in school history. He threw for three touchdowns in a huge win over Veterans that kept his team in the playoff picture.
3- Alphonso Stephens- You may barely know who this guy is but he is simply the hottest receiver in the state, with 34 catches in the last three games including a 13-200-3td line in the last game. Oh yes in case you didn't know he plays for Howard. When is the last time a receiver from Macon had over 1000 yards receiving. I cant think of one. This guy is over 1000 already. He makes a big move to number three because he did it on the field and made me recognize him
4. Gerimie Mitchell- So the Seminoles QB is hurt so what happens. The 5'5 inch receiver moves to QB and throws for 233 yards, and almost leads his team to a win over Peach County. I will always have guys like this on my list, because its what you do for the team that is most important,
5- With that being said Steve Dolphus has to be next- He has 38 catches this year, which is a big number for a high school receiver and he has already signed with Georgia Tech. Who knows he might be the next Bay Bay
6- O'Showen Williams- He is averaging 11 yards a carry and has 962 yards but he is not the only weapon. If he was his numbers would be sky high. Watch out for him in the playoffs when they go to him a little bit more. I believe that O'Showen will choose basketball over football (just a hunch) but he could be an excellent college football player. We aren't talking SEC, but definitely next level.
7-Quintez Cephus- Wisonsin, Georgia Tech, and who knows who else is after this guy. If you had asked me last year if he even liked football I would have said no. He never was comfortable playing QB. But letting him use his athletic ability to go get the ball has seen him explode for 692 yards receiving with 12 touchdowns. Don't forget he is a dominating defensive player with 4 interceptions and 36 tackles. Yes I believe that this young man will choose football over basketball, but I dobnt believe he has seen the offer yet as to where he will go
8-Chandler King- Best defensive player in the city
9-Ivory Childers- Evans number one target who went 6-116 against Rutland. In my opinion three years of excellence at the high school level should get him noticed by colleges. Yes he's that good.
10- Savion Knowlton- Did not play in the Peach game but still has 16 touchdowns passing. Westside will need him if they are going to get out of the first round of the playoffs
11-Justin Slocum- The Southwest receiver is a college level talent, but I think he will end up playing basketball.
12-Khristian Tate- The man is putting up huge numbers but he is big and his opponents are not. I just cant rate him any higher than this. I haven't seen him play in person, but I have seen him on film. He is impressive and will probably get a chance to play college football. But I just do not know how he would be if he was at Westside or a bigger school.
13-Dontrez Johnson- Greg Moore , his coach, says he is just the beneficiary of a team turning the corner. Ha that's coach talk for sure. This guy has excited the Vikings football program that was dead in the water less than three weeks ago. Three straight 100 yards games and bunches of touchdowns get you noticed
14-Kareem Warren- dominating Westside lineman, whose numbers look great
15-Daniel Weaver- 6-152 in his last game makes me notice people, but I noticed him a long time ago.
16- Tres Hattaway- do all guy for MDS, 274 rushing, 399 receiving, 42 tackles, 2 INT, where would the Cavs be without this guy
17-Kasey Sanders-740 yards and 9 scores for Stratford and he is like the three or four threat
18- Will McCormick- FPD QB getting it done late in the year and I believe he is leading the Vikings into the playoffs
Honorable Mention
Sim Patrick
Aubrien Kemp
Jordan Slocum
Ahmad Barron
Josh Brooks
Tyler Jordan
Ladarian Womack
Now I am sure I am missing some quality defenders from Howard and other schools, and I am sorry I focus on offensive threats. Sorry lol
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
ko knows food (LaBamba)
I was talking to world famous freelancer (seriously) Rick Limpert at the Tennis Classic of Macon this week and he says that I will always get my low numbers because I only write sports and I only write(mostly) about Macon sports. So as I listened to my mentor, I realized he was correct. Rick has made millions writing about sports, cell phones, can openers, any gadget you could think of, and in his time, he has probably done stories on strip clubs. That's how good this guy is.
So as we were waiting out a rain delay, Rick tried to give me a topic that might get more viewers that Macon high school sports.
He looked at me,got a twinkle in his eye, and said "Do a food blog, people love those."
So, after getting a remarkable(no) 31 hits on my Monday Macon football story, I am doing a restaurant review.
After all, KOknows food.
The restaurant I wanted to blog about first was easy. I probably eat here once every two weeks or so with my wife. I will explain that our house does not have much food in it since our kids left for college. That's not exaggerating, that s the truth. We have cereal and skim milk and a few other things. My wife loves cereal. If I am eating healthy, I have my choices of healthy food, which includes a lot of fruit. If I am not eating healthy, fast food is my choice (I know, what a surprise)
I could blog on any fast food place with my eyes closed (and I know from the misspelling in my stories and poor punctuation, sometimes you all probably think I am writing with my eyes closed, but don't hate)
Deb loves Mexican food to the point that she almost cried when El Azteca closed. That was her go to place, and she would walk in and they knew her order before she ordered. Its the simple things that make restaurants great.
So we have been looking for another great Mexican home. Sure El Somb, Margaritas, and La Parilla are great. However, sometimes you just feel like going to eat and not have to be prepared to see 20 people that you know. Can a person do that a the other Mexican places ? I think not. So, I will tell you, its safe to go to LaBamba in a pair of sweats and a tee shirt. That is, until I blog on it and everyone wants to be there.
We first went to LaBamba on the day it opened, because, well, we were looking for another El Azteca. The first visit was a disaster. We waited for our food long enough to go to another restaurant, eat, and come back. It was a long long wait. I think we went through two jeopardy episodes while we were waiting. As I do , I vowed never to go back.
And I didn't.
Until Deb wanted to eat Mexican and I didn't want to take a shower.
So we went to LaBamba, and we saw no one that we knew.
and The food was outstanding,
and the service was outstanding
and over the last four months, LaBamba has become Debs El Azteca.
We have the same host every time we walk and the waiter knows my wife's order before she orders it. Its more difficult with me because I get different things every time I go.
Now lets talk about the food for a minute. The Chile Rellenos are the best I have ever had and there is nowhere in Macon that can beat them. The Burritos are amazing, The tacos are amazing and Monday is taco night where they cost 99 cents. They have a happy hour and 2 for one drink specials and they want your business. We cant forget the salsa which is a slam dunk best in Macon.
So if you are willing to try a different Mexican experience, try LaBamba. Its on Northside drive. I GUARANTEE you will be greeted by smiling faces, hot food, and you probably can go in your sweats and tshirt.
But its catching on so hurry up and visit
So as we were waiting out a rain delay, Rick tried to give me a topic that might get more viewers that Macon high school sports.
He looked at me,got a twinkle in his eye, and said "Do a food blog, people love those."
So, after getting a remarkable(no) 31 hits on my Monday Macon football story, I am doing a restaurant review.
After all, KOknows food.
The restaurant I wanted to blog about first was easy. I probably eat here once every two weeks or so with my wife. I will explain that our house does not have much food in it since our kids left for college. That's not exaggerating, that s the truth. We have cereal and skim milk and a few other things. My wife loves cereal. If I am eating healthy, I have my choices of healthy food, which includes a lot of fruit. If I am not eating healthy, fast food is my choice (I know, what a surprise)
I could blog on any fast food place with my eyes closed (and I know from the misspelling in my stories and poor punctuation, sometimes you all probably think I am writing with my eyes closed, but don't hate)
Deb loves Mexican food to the point that she almost cried when El Azteca closed. That was her go to place, and she would walk in and they knew her order before she ordered. Its the simple things that make restaurants great.
So we have been looking for another great Mexican home. Sure El Somb, Margaritas, and La Parilla are great. However, sometimes you just feel like going to eat and not have to be prepared to see 20 people that you know. Can a person do that a the other Mexican places ? I think not. So, I will tell you, its safe to go to LaBamba in a pair of sweats and a tee shirt. That is, until I blog on it and everyone wants to be there.
We first went to LaBamba on the day it opened, because, well, we were looking for another El Azteca. The first visit was a disaster. We waited for our food long enough to go to another restaurant, eat, and come back. It was a long long wait. I think we went through two jeopardy episodes while we were waiting. As I do , I vowed never to go back.
And I didn't.
Until Deb wanted to eat Mexican and I didn't want to take a shower.
So we went to LaBamba, and we saw no one that we knew.
and The food was outstanding,
and the service was outstanding
and over the last four months, LaBamba has become Debs El Azteca.
We have the same host every time we walk and the waiter knows my wife's order before she orders it. Its more difficult with me because I get different things every time I go.
Now lets talk about the food for a minute. The Chile Rellenos are the best I have ever had and there is nowhere in Macon that can beat them. The Burritos are amazing, The tacos are amazing and Monday is taco night where they cost 99 cents. They have a happy hour and 2 for one drink specials and they want your business. We cant forget the salsa which is a slam dunk best in Macon.
So if you are willing to try a different Mexican experience, try LaBamba. Its on Northside drive. I GUARANTEE you will be greeted by smiling faces, hot food, and you probably can go in your sweats and tshirt.
But its catching on so hurry up and visit
Monday, October 26, 2015
high school football this and that
I am giving odds on things happening in Middle Georgia football only as I know them. Last weekend was a big weekend of football and many things became clear, and unfortunately, not many of them were good for Macon football fans
Odds of Southwest making the playoffs. Lets not sugar coat it. They have zero chance. They lost another tough game, this time 42-40 to Kendrick, a team that they just have to beat, I didn't even see the stats for it, but by the score it was just another game the Patriots could have won. Joe Dupree has maybe the toughest job in the city trying to turn that program around
ODDS OF CENTRAL MAKING THE PLAYFFS- 10% AT BEST. A few weeks ago the Chargers looked to be in, but then Spencer woke up and started to play great football. I saw them play the first half against Central and they looked horrendous, but they turned it around that game and have been lights out since then. They proved they are for real by knocking off Westside last week, which basically knocked the Chargers out of the playoffs. Spencer would have to lose to a Columbus school in the next two weeks and that probably isn't happening. How frustrating for the Chargers. In reality, Central became too much Derrick Evans over the last few weeks when Antonio Sanders Jr injured his ankle, and could not beat the big three in the region.
Odds of Howard making the playoffs- Not good, not good at all. A heartbreaking 41-40 loss at Upson Lee probably did them in . They have to beat Veterans Friday night to have any hope and they have to count on Upson Lee beating Veterans . I guess stranger things have happened.
Odds of FPD sneaking into the playoffs. -The Vikings have a chance. They have won two games in a row and have found a running game with Dontrez Johnson. The last two weeks were games that could have gone either way, but Greg Moores team just handled Wilkinson County on the road last week. They will have to take care of Twiggs County this week to have a chance.
Odds of Stratford winning the region- I picked the Eagles to win the region and I believe they can do it. I will put the odds at 60%. They can run, they can throw, they can coach, they can play defense, and they have two X factors , Cephus and Williams, the best one two combination in Macon. They could play anywhere in Macon and be the best player on the field,
Odds of Covenant winning state- 90%- The Rams are a good football team , but lets remember they are playing in a league with maybe 2 other good football teams and neither one of those had a 260 pound running back who has skills. Khristian Tate is a difference maker, and will lead the Rams to a state title.
Tattnall has a nice little freshman quarterback but it wont happen this year. The Trojans are in full rebuilding mode
Mount de Sales may be the second toughest rebuild in Macon. They were two players away from being a great team this year, but those two kids play at another school. Keith Hatcher has them playing hard, but the talent level isn't quite where it needs to be.
The best high school football player no one knows about- Torrez Finney at Jones County. 5-foot-eight and about 200 or more pounds, the absolute best defensive player in this area, and he prob wont get any offers from a big school because of his size. The kid is a beast and after the game he is all smiles. Justin Rogers turned the program around, but I would say that he could not have done it so fast without Torrez Finney.. Long live the Greyhounds
Odds of Southwest making the playoffs. Lets not sugar coat it. They have zero chance. They lost another tough game, this time 42-40 to Kendrick, a team that they just have to beat, I didn't even see the stats for it, but by the score it was just another game the Patriots could have won. Joe Dupree has maybe the toughest job in the city trying to turn that program around
ODDS OF CENTRAL MAKING THE PLAYFFS- 10% AT BEST. A few weeks ago the Chargers looked to be in, but then Spencer woke up and started to play great football. I saw them play the first half against Central and they looked horrendous, but they turned it around that game and have been lights out since then. They proved they are for real by knocking off Westside last week, which basically knocked the Chargers out of the playoffs. Spencer would have to lose to a Columbus school in the next two weeks and that probably isn't happening. How frustrating for the Chargers. In reality, Central became too much Derrick Evans over the last few weeks when Antonio Sanders Jr injured his ankle, and could not beat the big three in the region.
Odds of Howard making the playoffs- Not good, not good at all. A heartbreaking 41-40 loss at Upson Lee probably did them in . They have to beat Veterans Friday night to have any hope and they have to count on Upson Lee beating Veterans . I guess stranger things have happened.
Odds of FPD sneaking into the playoffs. -The Vikings have a chance. They have won two games in a row and have found a running game with Dontrez Johnson. The last two weeks were games that could have gone either way, but Greg Moores team just handled Wilkinson County on the road last week. They will have to take care of Twiggs County this week to have a chance.
Odds of Stratford winning the region- I picked the Eagles to win the region and I believe they can do it. I will put the odds at 60%. They can run, they can throw, they can coach, they can play defense, and they have two X factors , Cephus and Williams, the best one two combination in Macon. They could play anywhere in Macon and be the best player on the field,
Odds of Covenant winning state- 90%- The Rams are a good football team , but lets remember they are playing in a league with maybe 2 other good football teams and neither one of those had a 260 pound running back who has skills. Khristian Tate is a difference maker, and will lead the Rams to a state title.
Tattnall has a nice little freshman quarterback but it wont happen this year. The Trojans are in full rebuilding mode
Mount de Sales may be the second toughest rebuild in Macon. They were two players away from being a great team this year, but those two kids play at another school. Keith Hatcher has them playing hard, but the talent level isn't quite where it needs to be.
The best high school football player no one knows about- Torrez Finney at Jones County. 5-foot-eight and about 200 or more pounds, the absolute best defensive player in this area, and he prob wont get any offers from a big school because of his size. The kid is a beast and after the game he is all smiles. Justin Rogers turned the program around, but I would say that he could not have done it so fast without Torrez Finney.. Long live the Greyhounds
Thursday, October 22, 2015
High School Football
I was out of town the last few days so my normal Monday or Tuesday blog comes out on Thursday this week.
I think I will talk about, hmmmm, maybe high school football if that's ok with everyone.
I wanted to take a minute and talk about the length of a high school football game these days. For the last six years I don't think I have ever had much of a problem making a deadline of 11:15. Sure once in awhile, I would have a long game and I would write in a parking lot , but this year it has been every single weekend scrambling to get stories in. I mean I am 53 years old, and I like to write my story from the comfort of my house, drinking some old man beverage like hot cocoa, coffee, or Jack and coke. But this year , that just has not happened.
And I wondered why
Well, it should not take long for anyone to figure out. Macon Georgia has gone pass happy.
Barney Hester even throws the damn ball.
Lets look at the Macon High schools.
Central- Derrick Evans over 1400 yards passing
Howard- Courvoisier King over 1400 yards passing
Westside- Savion Knowlton close to 1200 yards passing
Southwest- Jordan Slocum- don't know the yards but they throw it a lot
FPD- Will McCormick- over 600 yards passing
Tattnall- ditched the running game and they are running the spread now
So, looking at the big picture, running games kill the clock, and when teams are passing, that's means lots of incompletions (yes Derrick , that means you too) and what do incompletions do? THEY STOP THE CLOCK which duh, makes games last forever.( I wont even talk about the officiating, that's for another story)
We are nearing playoff time and it is do or die for some Macon teams, while others are looking like they are in. Westside is probably in , but needs to finish strong, and they play a much improved Spencer team this weekend in Columbus. They close with Peach County, which may decide the region champ. But don't overlook Jackson, who will be involved in the best game in Macon this weekend when they hook up with Central. I think the Chargers are in, but they don't want to come in at a #4 seed. Central needs to win this weekend, which will not be easy, considering Jackson beat Peach a week ago.
Howard is also a school that must win this weekend. As good as the Huskies have been , they are 1-2 in the region and have Upson Lee, Veterans, and Baldwin left. They probably have to win two of those to get in.
I think Southwest is in a hopeless position right now after the loss to Central. They would have to win out to have a chance.
The private school league has not been kind to Macon schools this season. So far only Stratford is a playoff team and they are only ranked 11th. That would give them a very difficult matchup in the first round. They will beat Mount de Sales this weekend, and I think they have Wilkinson left ,and then probably a game for a region championship. The Eagles are clicking right now, and I believe they will win out in the regular season and maybe slip up into the top five by the end of the season.
FPD is sitting 18th I think and they face a must win game against Wilkinson this weekend at Wilkinson. Did I say MUST win, they lose and the season is probably going to be a playoff less season.
Tattnall Square still has a chance to turn things around and it has to start this weekend with a home game against Twiggs. If the Trojans lose that game, they are done.
I gotta give some space to Covenant. The Rams are undefeated and have maybe the only test of the season this week when they play Calvary, a team that is also undefeated. Look at the schedules and it shows this could be a good game but look closer and see that both teams have played Thomas Jefferson. Calvary beat TJA by two points while Covenant beat them 49-6. Khristian Tate runs for as many yards as Chris Oxford lets him run for and Covenant wins easily.
MY quickie top 15 players
1-Derrick Evans- somebody gotta do something special to knock him out of the one spot.
2-Steve Dolphus- In honor of him signing with Georgia Tech this week
3-Gerimie Mitchell- Darren Sproles of Macon
4-Chandler King- dominating defensive end for Central-has to have a great game this week
5-Savion Knowlton- having a huge first year as Westsides signal caller
6-Coirvoisier King- Has to lead Howard into the playoffs- they wont get there without him
7-Quintez Cephus- ok Wisconsin wants him, need I say more, stock is flying high
8-OShowen Williams- Best running back in the city
9-Kristian Tate- I want to rate him higher, I really do
10-Alphonzo Stephens- Howard WR has 732 yards receiving
11-Daniel Weaver- FPD WR- best kept secret in Macon
12-Ivory Childers- Big play Central WR- could be way higher
13-Justin Slocum- SW- He is really good, but injuries to his qb have hurt him
14-Kareem Warren- Westside 52 tackles 6 sacks, 26 tackles for loss impressed me
15- Antonio Sanders- Central rb slowed by ankle injury- time to go against Jackson
honorable mention
Will McCormick-FPD
Tres Hattaway- MDS
Ladarion Womack-Rutland
Donta Pate-Westside
Sean Walker-Howard
Dontrez Johnson-FPD
Sim Patrick-Stratford
Aubrien Kemp-Tattnall
Jordan Slocum-SW
Ahmad Barron-Tattnall
I think I will talk about, hmmmm, maybe high school football if that's ok with everyone.
I wanted to take a minute and talk about the length of a high school football game these days. For the last six years I don't think I have ever had much of a problem making a deadline of 11:15. Sure once in awhile, I would have a long game and I would write in a parking lot , but this year it has been every single weekend scrambling to get stories in. I mean I am 53 years old, and I like to write my story from the comfort of my house, drinking some old man beverage like hot cocoa, coffee, or Jack and coke. But this year , that just has not happened.
And I wondered why
Well, it should not take long for anyone to figure out. Macon Georgia has gone pass happy.
Barney Hester even throws the damn ball.
Lets look at the Macon High schools.
Central- Derrick Evans over 1400 yards passing
Howard- Courvoisier King over 1400 yards passing
Westside- Savion Knowlton close to 1200 yards passing
Southwest- Jordan Slocum- don't know the yards but they throw it a lot
FPD- Will McCormick- over 600 yards passing
Tattnall- ditched the running game and they are running the spread now
So, looking at the big picture, running games kill the clock, and when teams are passing, that's means lots of incompletions (yes Derrick , that means you too) and what do incompletions do? THEY STOP THE CLOCK which duh, makes games last forever.( I wont even talk about the officiating, that's for another story)
We are nearing playoff time and it is do or die for some Macon teams, while others are looking like they are in. Westside is probably in , but needs to finish strong, and they play a much improved Spencer team this weekend in Columbus. They close with Peach County, which may decide the region champ. But don't overlook Jackson, who will be involved in the best game in Macon this weekend when they hook up with Central. I think the Chargers are in, but they don't want to come in at a #4 seed. Central needs to win this weekend, which will not be easy, considering Jackson beat Peach a week ago.
Howard is also a school that must win this weekend. As good as the Huskies have been , they are 1-2 in the region and have Upson Lee, Veterans, and Baldwin left. They probably have to win two of those to get in.
I think Southwest is in a hopeless position right now after the loss to Central. They would have to win out to have a chance.
The private school league has not been kind to Macon schools this season. So far only Stratford is a playoff team and they are only ranked 11th. That would give them a very difficult matchup in the first round. They will beat Mount de Sales this weekend, and I think they have Wilkinson left ,and then probably a game for a region championship. The Eagles are clicking right now, and I believe they will win out in the regular season and maybe slip up into the top five by the end of the season.
FPD is sitting 18th I think and they face a must win game against Wilkinson this weekend at Wilkinson. Did I say MUST win, they lose and the season is probably going to be a playoff less season.
Tattnall Square still has a chance to turn things around and it has to start this weekend with a home game against Twiggs. If the Trojans lose that game, they are done.
I gotta give some space to Covenant. The Rams are undefeated and have maybe the only test of the season this week when they play Calvary, a team that is also undefeated. Look at the schedules and it shows this could be a good game but look closer and see that both teams have played Thomas Jefferson. Calvary beat TJA by two points while Covenant beat them 49-6. Khristian Tate runs for as many yards as Chris Oxford lets him run for and Covenant wins easily.
MY quickie top 15 players
1-Derrick Evans- somebody gotta do something special to knock him out of the one spot.
2-Steve Dolphus- In honor of him signing with Georgia Tech this week
3-Gerimie Mitchell- Darren Sproles of Macon
4-Chandler King- dominating defensive end for Central-has to have a great game this week
5-Savion Knowlton- having a huge first year as Westsides signal caller
6-Coirvoisier King- Has to lead Howard into the playoffs- they wont get there without him
7-Quintez Cephus- ok Wisconsin wants him, need I say more, stock is flying high
8-OShowen Williams- Best running back in the city
9-Kristian Tate- I want to rate him higher, I really do
10-Alphonzo Stephens- Howard WR has 732 yards receiving
11-Daniel Weaver- FPD WR- best kept secret in Macon
12-Ivory Childers- Big play Central WR- could be way higher
13-Justin Slocum- SW- He is really good, but injuries to his qb have hurt him
14-Kareem Warren- Westside 52 tackles 6 sacks, 26 tackles for loss impressed me
15- Antonio Sanders- Central rb slowed by ankle injury- time to go against Jackson
honorable mention
Will McCormick-FPD
Tres Hattaway- MDS
Ladarion Womack-Rutland
Donta Pate-Westside
Sean Walker-Howard
Dontrez Johnson-FPD
Sim Patrick-Stratford
Aubrien Kemp-Tattnall
Jordan Slocum-SW
Ahmad Barron-Tattnall
Monday, October 12, 2015
Decisions Decisions
Sometimes I just have to sit back and feel sorry for high school athletes like Quintez Cephus.
Just imagine how it would be to be so extremely talented to have to CHOOSE which sport to play at the next level.
But it is not just Cephus alone that will have this difficult decision to make. Just off the top of my head, I am seeing four of my top 10 players in Macon that will have to make the choice on what sport to play.
Now realistically, it is almost impossible to excel at football and basketball in college.It just takes too much time. Plus lets not forget the true reason that these kids are going to college and that is to get a college education. So in my opinion, (which means absolutely nothing) I offer my feelings about which sports fit them the best.
Quintez Cephus- He is the best high school athlete to come through Macon since DeAndre Smelter, who by the way, also had a difficult decision to make coming out of high school. Remember, Smelter chose baseball at Georgia Tech before switching and becoming a stellar football player. Cephus will have an incredibly hard choice to make, especially after the big boys of football are fixing to be ringing the doorbells at his house. I totally expect that after Wisconsin has made it known they want him to play football, that several other majors will be doing the same.
Cephus is fairly new to playing receiver but he uses his basketball skills to go up and get the ball. Is he raw as a football player ? Yes. Can he play D1 football and be great ? Yes. It may take a redshirt year. Does he love football like he loves basketball ? I am not sure of that answer, but my opinion is no.
So what does he end up doing ? He had verbally committed to Furman for basketball and he is an incredible basketball player and I would hate to see him not play basketball in college, but the more I see of him on the football field, the more I like him.I believe he can walk into Furman's program and start right away, while on a football field it may be a learning process.
MY choice for Quintez- Play the sport he loves the most, play the sport he cant live without, go to the college that he will love even if he gets injured and can never play again. Cephus has a lot to offer in any capacity he chooses.
And while I am at it, Hey QT Stratford could probably use you on the soccer field this year.
Derrick Evans- Wow talk about another talented kid. He is a great athlete and I just cant see him not playing college basketball.
That is until I saw him play football this year.
I always thought that Evans was a fair high school football player but he has really turned the corner this year. Reports of Marshall and several other D1 colleges are working hard for his services on either side of the football, and if he gets that offer he might just go football. But oh my, he is a point guard supreme also.
So, is Derrick a D1 basketball player? In my mind he is, but there are bigger minds than mine who make those decisions. I have seem him do some amazing things on the basketball court over the
last three years and it will be a very interesting choice for him.
MY choice for Derrick- I like him as a basketball player, but what does one do if its D2 basketball or D1 football ? once again, go with what you love, and I think that might be,, BOTH
Justin Slocum- I love this kid. He is 6'6 and I don't think he even has a twitter page, which is shocking for a teenager at this point. He has probably never even heard of my blog.(like a lot of others) I love him on the basketball court but I am not sold that he can play the 2 or 3 in college and he isn't quite big enough to play inside. can he shoot three's? I really haven't seen it. can he bang against bigger college athletes ? Maybe he can, but I don't know. The thing about it is at Southwest he has to spend most of his time inside because, well he is 6'6. If colleges think he can step out and play then he would make an excellent college player.
With this being said, I love him on the football field. I saw him catch three touchdown passes a few weeks ago, and it could have been more. He is 6'6 and can jump and run and do all of that. he should be getting major football interest.He plays defense and special teams and everything else, but he is a pure wide receiver and what program could not use a 6'6 athletic guy catching footballs.
MY choice for Justin- Football all the way
O'Showen Williams- His brother plays football for Tennessee by the way and gets a lot of playing time. This kid is a great athlete but is a bit on the small side. That does not however, mean he is not a two sport threat who can play whichever one he wants in college.
I have questioned O'Showens ability to score, but every time I question that he goes off for 15 to 20 points. He can handle the basketball and distribute as well as anyone in the city, but I honestly don't know where he falls to as a basketball player.
I believe that O"Showen can play college football at a fairly high level also. I don't know exactly how fast he is or what side of the football he will end up on because I saw him make a huge play on defense two weeks ago. He certainly is not scared to hit someone or to be hit.
MY CHOICE for O'Showen - I think football is the place for him, or maybe basketball, or maybe soccer. He is a blessed athlete who can play whichever he wants to
Just imagine how it would be to be so extremely talented to have to CHOOSE which sport to play at the next level.
But it is not just Cephus alone that will have this difficult decision to make. Just off the top of my head, I am seeing four of my top 10 players in Macon that will have to make the choice on what sport to play.
Now realistically, it is almost impossible to excel at football and basketball in college.It just takes too much time. Plus lets not forget the true reason that these kids are going to college and that is to get a college education. So in my opinion, (which means absolutely nothing) I offer my feelings about which sports fit them the best.
Quintez Cephus- He is the best high school athlete to come through Macon since DeAndre Smelter, who by the way, also had a difficult decision to make coming out of high school. Remember, Smelter chose baseball at Georgia Tech before switching and becoming a stellar football player. Cephus will have an incredibly hard choice to make, especially after the big boys of football are fixing to be ringing the doorbells at his house. I totally expect that after Wisconsin has made it known they want him to play football, that several other majors will be doing the same.
Cephus is fairly new to playing receiver but he uses his basketball skills to go up and get the ball. Is he raw as a football player ? Yes. Can he play D1 football and be great ? Yes. It may take a redshirt year. Does he love football like he loves basketball ? I am not sure of that answer, but my opinion is no.
So what does he end up doing ? He had verbally committed to Furman for basketball and he is an incredible basketball player and I would hate to see him not play basketball in college, but the more I see of him on the football field, the more I like him.I believe he can walk into Furman's program and start right away, while on a football field it may be a learning process.
MY choice for Quintez- Play the sport he loves the most, play the sport he cant live without, go to the college that he will love even if he gets injured and can never play again. Cephus has a lot to offer in any capacity he chooses.
And while I am at it, Hey QT Stratford could probably use you on the soccer field this year.
Derrick Evans- Wow talk about another talented kid. He is a great athlete and I just cant see him not playing college basketball.
That is until I saw him play football this year.
I always thought that Evans was a fair high school football player but he has really turned the corner this year. Reports of Marshall and several other D1 colleges are working hard for his services on either side of the football, and if he gets that offer he might just go football. But oh my, he is a point guard supreme also.
So, is Derrick a D1 basketball player? In my mind he is, but there are bigger minds than mine who make those decisions. I have seem him do some amazing things on the basketball court over the
last three years and it will be a very interesting choice for him.
MY choice for Derrick- I like him as a basketball player, but what does one do if its D2 basketball or D1 football ? once again, go with what you love, and I think that might be,, BOTH
Justin Slocum- I love this kid. He is 6'6 and I don't think he even has a twitter page, which is shocking for a teenager at this point. He has probably never even heard of my blog.(like a lot of others) I love him on the basketball court but I am not sold that he can play the 2 or 3 in college and he isn't quite big enough to play inside. can he shoot three's? I really haven't seen it. can he bang against bigger college athletes ? Maybe he can, but I don't know. The thing about it is at Southwest he has to spend most of his time inside because, well he is 6'6. If colleges think he can step out and play then he would make an excellent college player.
With this being said, I love him on the football field. I saw him catch three touchdown passes a few weeks ago, and it could have been more. He is 6'6 and can jump and run and do all of that. he should be getting major football interest.He plays defense and special teams and everything else, but he is a pure wide receiver and what program could not use a 6'6 athletic guy catching footballs.
MY choice for Justin- Football all the way
O'Showen Williams- His brother plays football for Tennessee by the way and gets a lot of playing time. This kid is a great athlete but is a bit on the small side. That does not however, mean he is not a two sport threat who can play whichever one he wants in college.
I have questioned O'Showens ability to score, but every time I question that he goes off for 15 to 20 points. He can handle the basketball and distribute as well as anyone in the city, but I honestly don't know where he falls to as a basketball player.
I believe that O"Showen can play college football at a fairly high level also. I don't know exactly how fast he is or what side of the football he will end up on because I saw him make a huge play on defense two weeks ago. He certainly is not scared to hit someone or to be hit.
MY CHOICE for O'Showen - I think football is the place for him, or maybe basketball, or maybe soccer. He is a blessed athlete who can play whichever he wants to
Friday, October 9, 2015
picks for the week
Thank you to the 38 people who read my last blog. After the 280 that read the last one, 38 is a bit of a downer, but I cant do anything about it. I just write what I think and hope someone enjoys it.
I was able to make a move in the Trelegraph pickems and I am breathing down the Masters(Heeter) neck right now. I plan on catching him very soon to reach my lifetime goal (no) of winning the high school picks.
Here we go for this weeks local games
Rutland vs Southwest- I am very disappointed in the Patriots losing 35-0 to a Columbus team last weekend, and to say this is a must win for them is a drastic understatement. If they lose this game they have no chance to make the playoffs. The Slocums make enough plays to win a closer than expected game.
Southwest 27 Rutland 20
Mary Persons vs Howard - I knew this would be a swing game in the picks this week and I knew most would go with the favorite. But I truly believe the Huskies will win this football game. This is the biggest game in Howards football existence, and it is a game that Barney Hester has played in 100 or more times in his career. Look for Howard to get back to basics and try to win this game on the run, but Courvoisier will have to make some plays in this one. He failed to do it a few weeks ago against West Laurens, but I am betting on him this week.
Howard 24 Mary Persons 21
FPD vs MDS - Greg Moore found something last week and that is the McCormick to Weaver connection. It worked last week for 11 completions and I expect it could be a big number this week also. MDS is trying to turn the corner as a football team, but cant quite get it done as of yet.
FPD 31 MDS 20
Tattnall Square vs Stratford - I have not seen Tattnall play this year and I have seen Stratford and I think they are one of the better teams in the city this year. This is a huge game for both teams in the power poll. The Trojans are getting close to this being a must win and they will be playing with that desperation. Bur Stratford has so many weapons that I don't think desperation will help. O'Showen and Cephus show out once again.
Stratford 34 Tattnall 14
West Laurens vs Veterans - This is a battle of two teams wanting to make the playoffs and if I could choose to see one game this weekend it may be this one. Both teams play hard and hit hard and it will be won on the ground
West Laurens 24 Veterans 20
I also look for Wilkinson to edge Twiggs County
Peach County rolls over Kendrick
Westside to roll over Jordan
and the Georgia Bulldogs to rebound with a big win over Tennessee
My words on Mark Richt
I stay out of this conversation for the most part, but I am putting in two cents and that is all. JUst answer this question. I think it was three years ago that UGA came up five yards short of beating Alabama in the conference championship game. If the Dawgs would have won that game they would have played Notre Dame for the National Championship, and probably would have won that game.
So if Richt had won that game would people still want to fire him ? I don't think so. So basically, we are going to fire the man because he came up five yards short ?
I was just as frustrated as anyone else last Saturday, but I for one, am not willing to see wha'ts on the other side. Yes, Richt needs to win some big games once in awhile, but don't give up on him. He is the coach of my favorite team.
As far as Freddi Gonzales goes, fire him. lol
Have a good weekend everyone
I was able to make a move in the Trelegraph pickems and I am breathing down the Masters(Heeter) neck right now. I plan on catching him very soon to reach my lifetime goal (no) of winning the high school picks.
Here we go for this weeks local games
Rutland vs Southwest- I am very disappointed in the Patriots losing 35-0 to a Columbus team last weekend, and to say this is a must win for them is a drastic understatement. If they lose this game they have no chance to make the playoffs. The Slocums make enough plays to win a closer than expected game.
Southwest 27 Rutland 20
Mary Persons vs Howard - I knew this would be a swing game in the picks this week and I knew most would go with the favorite. But I truly believe the Huskies will win this football game. This is the biggest game in Howards football existence, and it is a game that Barney Hester has played in 100 or more times in his career. Look for Howard to get back to basics and try to win this game on the run, but Courvoisier will have to make some plays in this one. He failed to do it a few weeks ago against West Laurens, but I am betting on him this week.
Howard 24 Mary Persons 21
FPD vs MDS - Greg Moore found something last week and that is the McCormick to Weaver connection. It worked last week for 11 completions and I expect it could be a big number this week also. MDS is trying to turn the corner as a football team, but cant quite get it done as of yet.
FPD 31 MDS 20
Tattnall Square vs Stratford - I have not seen Tattnall play this year and I have seen Stratford and I think they are one of the better teams in the city this year. This is a huge game for both teams in the power poll. The Trojans are getting close to this being a must win and they will be playing with that desperation. Bur Stratford has so many weapons that I don't think desperation will help. O'Showen and Cephus show out once again.
Stratford 34 Tattnall 14
West Laurens vs Veterans - This is a battle of two teams wanting to make the playoffs and if I could choose to see one game this weekend it may be this one. Both teams play hard and hit hard and it will be won on the ground
West Laurens 24 Veterans 20
I also look for Wilkinson to edge Twiggs County
Peach County rolls over Kendrick
Westside to roll over Jordan
and the Georgia Bulldogs to rebound with a big win over Tennessee
My words on Mark Richt
I stay out of this conversation for the most part, but I am putting in two cents and that is all. JUst answer this question. I think it was three years ago that UGA came up five yards short of beating Alabama in the conference championship game. If the Dawgs would have won that game they would have played Notre Dame for the National Championship, and probably would have won that game.
So if Richt had won that game would people still want to fire him ? I don't think so. So basically, we are going to fire the man because he came up five yards short ?
I was just as frustrated as anyone else last Saturday, but I for one, am not willing to see wha'ts on the other side. Yes, Richt needs to win some big games once in awhile, but don't give up on him. He is the coach of my favorite team.
As far as Freddi Gonzales goes, fire him. lol
Have a good weekend everyone
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
RATING THE 12 SCHOOLS IN MACON
After 270 readers on the Macon top 15 list, my plan was to come back to that every week. But after thinking about it, I decided that every week was too much for that, so I will use that every two weeks.
This week I will give myself the task of rating the 12 Macon schools, in order. Yes I am rating all of them together. If I have Covenant at number 9, I am saying that they would beat numbers 10, 11, and 12.
12- Windsor - I have nothing but good things to say about Windsor. They have a few players that could play for almost anyone in Macon, and they have a good young coach in Jimmy Watts. I feel like having them in the 12 position shows that Macon football is way better this year than it has been for awhile. But I can't rate then any higher because they lost to Piedmont at home. If they would have won that game they probably would have moved up at least one spot.
11- Covenant- Yes they are undefeated, however it is the GICAA. I don't want to dwell on that because this is a very talented team, but I don't think they could beat anyone else in Macon, except Windsor. Khristian Tate went for 253 yards last game, which is good no matter who you are playing, but I have to wonder where he would stack up if he went to Central. I know for a fact that if I could arrange a game with the teams above them , the Rams would take the opportunity , but sadly that will never happen. Hats off to Covenant and I hope they will win a state championship.
10-Northeast- Putting Northeast at number 10 is me saying that the Raiders could not beat Mount de Sales or Tattnall this year. Hmmm, ok yes that's what I am saying. Northeast is young at the skill positions and just isn't very good this season. They may not win a game. Bruce Mullen will have them back playing good football and making the playoffs by next year though. You can mark that down.
9-Mount de Sales- I know Keith Hatcher has to be disappointed by a 1-4 start. I talked to him before the first game of the year and he was very upbeat about the season. But the thing is, everyone is better. They lost to Strong Rock by one point and then rant into a much improved Twiggs County team and all of a sudden the season is half over and they have won one game. The bad news is that could be the only win of the season as they close with FPD,Wilkinson County, Stratford, and Tattnall.
8-Rutland.- They are very young and they have also probably won their last game of the year. LaDarion Womack is a solid running back, but the Canes don't have much else offensively and really haven't been able to stop anyone either. .
7-Tattnall Square-They made it to the region championship game last year and got off to a good start this year, but I was hearing through the grapevine that the Trojans were not the same team as the year before. They have lost the last two games by huge margins, and with Stratford, FPD, Twiggs, and Mount de Sales left on the schedule, wins could be tough to come by. Does a 6-4 record get them into the top 16 in the power poll ? That's a tough question and I think the answer is probably no.
6- FPD- I think the Vikings are getting better and they did come out fighting after being humiliated in the first half against Stratford. McCormick to Weaver looked like a great combination and I am sure the Greg Moore will use it a lot down the stretch. They are on the outside looking in right now in the power poll, and they have must win games the next two weeks against Mount de Sales and Tattnall before closing with Wilkinson and Twiggs. At 2-3,they probably need to win 3 out of 4 to make the playoffs.
5-Southwest- I have no clue about these guys. I saw them before the season and after watching them, I declared them playoff ready. Two Slocums and solid head coach have not been enough however. After watching UGA ruin my Saturday I went looking for a SW score against one of those Columbus schools and I saw they had lost 35-0. What ?? I have no clue how the Patriots got shut out. I could understand 35-31, but I just could not believe they got shut out. Now, barring some big upsets, Southwest will end up at 4-6 at best and once again miss the playoffs.
4-Stratford- They are the best private school football team in Macon right now, and O'Showen might be the best back in Macon. Cephus has big play written all over him, and against FPD it was on the defensive side of the ball. Go to the Telegraph and look at the pictures from last weeks game and you will see my friend Don Rodenroth getting the shot of the year of a Cephus interception. The dude is showing off the vertical. The picture cant show him taking it the other way for 56 yards and a score. But the Eagles are not two hit wonders. Umerah is a beast up front, and Sanders and Jordan also ran for over 100 yards, so it was quite a show. But they cant have a letdown. They have Tattnall, Twiggs, De Sales and Wilkinson and have to win at least two and maybe three of those games to make the playoffs. They should get revenge against Tattnall this week.
3-Central- The Chargers are a very talented football team but have not been able to come up with that signature win, despite being close against region opponents Westside and Peach County. They have a great shot a making the playoffs and Jesse Hicks feels like they can make noise. The offense has not been the same over the last six quarters, but they are getting an off week to rest up and get ready for the rest of the year. Evans is the top player in the city and still has not thrown an interception through six games.
2- Howard- They are 5-1 but only 1-1 in a very tough region and nothing is guaranteed at this point. They have what is probably the biggest game in school history on Friday night when they host undefeated Mary Persons. Its very simple, if they can beat Mary Persons, they will probably make the playoffs. If they lose, they have got to find some wins. The go on the road against a very good Upson Lee team the following weekend and then close with Veterans and Baldwin. That's not weasy but they need two wins out of four games to make the playoffs. Its time for Courvoisier to play the best four games of his career.
1-Westside- To be the man you gotta beat the man and no local has ever beat the Seminoles. Spoon Rispers team has Savion Knowlton, Steve Dolphus and Gerimie Mitchell leading the way and they will make the playoffs. But they will go into Peach County in three weeks with a 7-1 record, and if they lose that game, they could be a three seed heading into the playoffs. Risper does not want a three seed.
This week I will give myself the task of rating the 12 Macon schools, in order. Yes I am rating all of them together. If I have Covenant at number 9, I am saying that they would beat numbers 10, 11, and 12.
12- Windsor - I have nothing but good things to say about Windsor. They have a few players that could play for almost anyone in Macon, and they have a good young coach in Jimmy Watts. I feel like having them in the 12 position shows that Macon football is way better this year than it has been for awhile. But I can't rate then any higher because they lost to Piedmont at home. If they would have won that game they probably would have moved up at least one spot.
11- Covenant- Yes they are undefeated, however it is the GICAA. I don't want to dwell on that because this is a very talented team, but I don't think they could beat anyone else in Macon, except Windsor. Khristian Tate went for 253 yards last game, which is good no matter who you are playing, but I have to wonder where he would stack up if he went to Central. I know for a fact that if I could arrange a game with the teams above them , the Rams would take the opportunity , but sadly that will never happen. Hats off to Covenant and I hope they will win a state championship.
10-Northeast- Putting Northeast at number 10 is me saying that the Raiders could not beat Mount de Sales or Tattnall this year. Hmmm, ok yes that's what I am saying. Northeast is young at the skill positions and just isn't very good this season. They may not win a game. Bruce Mullen will have them back playing good football and making the playoffs by next year though. You can mark that down.
9-Mount de Sales- I know Keith Hatcher has to be disappointed by a 1-4 start. I talked to him before the first game of the year and he was very upbeat about the season. But the thing is, everyone is better. They lost to Strong Rock by one point and then rant into a much improved Twiggs County team and all of a sudden the season is half over and they have won one game. The bad news is that could be the only win of the season as they close with FPD,Wilkinson County, Stratford, and Tattnall.
8-Rutland.- They are very young and they have also probably won their last game of the year. LaDarion Womack is a solid running back, but the Canes don't have much else offensively and really haven't been able to stop anyone either. .
7-Tattnall Square-They made it to the region championship game last year and got off to a good start this year, but I was hearing through the grapevine that the Trojans were not the same team as the year before. They have lost the last two games by huge margins, and with Stratford, FPD, Twiggs, and Mount de Sales left on the schedule, wins could be tough to come by. Does a 6-4 record get them into the top 16 in the power poll ? That's a tough question and I think the answer is probably no.
6- FPD- I think the Vikings are getting better and they did come out fighting after being humiliated in the first half against Stratford. McCormick to Weaver looked like a great combination and I am sure the Greg Moore will use it a lot down the stretch. They are on the outside looking in right now in the power poll, and they have must win games the next two weeks against Mount de Sales and Tattnall before closing with Wilkinson and Twiggs. At 2-3,they probably need to win 3 out of 4 to make the playoffs.
5-Southwest- I have no clue about these guys. I saw them before the season and after watching them, I declared them playoff ready. Two Slocums and solid head coach have not been enough however. After watching UGA ruin my Saturday I went looking for a SW score against one of those Columbus schools and I saw they had lost 35-0. What ?? I have no clue how the Patriots got shut out. I could understand 35-31, but I just could not believe they got shut out. Now, barring some big upsets, Southwest will end up at 4-6 at best and once again miss the playoffs.
4-Stratford- They are the best private school football team in Macon right now, and O'Showen might be the best back in Macon. Cephus has big play written all over him, and against FPD it was on the defensive side of the ball. Go to the Telegraph and look at the pictures from last weeks game and you will see my friend Don Rodenroth getting the shot of the year of a Cephus interception. The dude is showing off the vertical. The picture cant show him taking it the other way for 56 yards and a score. But the Eagles are not two hit wonders. Umerah is a beast up front, and Sanders and Jordan also ran for over 100 yards, so it was quite a show. But they cant have a letdown. They have Tattnall, Twiggs, De Sales and Wilkinson and have to win at least two and maybe three of those games to make the playoffs. They should get revenge against Tattnall this week.
3-Central- The Chargers are a very talented football team but have not been able to come up with that signature win, despite being close against region opponents Westside and Peach County. They have a great shot a making the playoffs and Jesse Hicks feels like they can make noise. The offense has not been the same over the last six quarters, but they are getting an off week to rest up and get ready for the rest of the year. Evans is the top player in the city and still has not thrown an interception through six games.
2- Howard- They are 5-1 but only 1-1 in a very tough region and nothing is guaranteed at this point. They have what is probably the biggest game in school history on Friday night when they host undefeated Mary Persons. Its very simple, if they can beat Mary Persons, they will probably make the playoffs. If they lose, they have got to find some wins. The go on the road against a very good Upson Lee team the following weekend and then close with Veterans and Baldwin. That's not weasy but they need two wins out of four games to make the playoffs. Its time for Courvoisier to play the best four games of his career.
1-Westside- To be the man you gotta beat the man and no local has ever beat the Seminoles. Spoon Rispers team has Savion Knowlton, Steve Dolphus and Gerimie Mitchell leading the way and they will make the playoffs. But they will go into Peach County in three weeks with a 7-1 record, and if they lose that game, they could be a three seed heading into the playoffs. Risper does not want a three seed.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
My Picks for friday night
I can only sit here and wish that I could find more topics to garner as much interest as high school football gets in Macon. As of 11:25 tonight, my last blog had 225 reads which is what I am hoping for every time I write something. Thank you for the support.
I had a friend of mine who I think I will hire as my agent that helped me get the word out about my last blog, and she helped it grow from 135 at 2:00 pm to 225 tonight. She gave me some great advice and that was "John I can get them to read one blog, but you have to have interesting stuff for them to come back once or twice a week. A truer statement has never been uttered.
I am going to write a bit tonight about my pickems for the newspaper that will show up in Fridays paper. I am not leading, which is a disappointment, but it is still early and I still hope to win. But we have difficult games every week and this week is no different.
FPD-Stratford- The most difficult thing is picking a game in which you have seen neither team. I picked Stratford to beat Aquinas and they threatened but could not get the win at home. I was in Mark Farribas office on Tuesday and I made the statement that I had picked them for the upset against Aquinas, and he got this look on his face, then looked away and said something to the affect of I hate that people think that would have been an upset. That made my mind up who I was picking in this game.Farriba, I believe, thinks his team is pretty good. I think that the Eagles have too much fire power for FPD, but I also think it will be close. Cephus could have a big toll in this game and who does FPD have that can go up with him and make a play on the ball. McSwain can run with him for sure, but we are talking 5'10 against 6'2.FPD has shown that they are a pretty good defensive football team, but they have lacked firepower on offense. It's time that Greg Moore unleashes some weapons for a spark.
I will take Stratford by a score of 27-21
Peach Co- Central- What a game this could be. Its at home for Central , who is still looking for that signature win, and beating Peach would do the trick. After seeing Central last weekend, I don't think its going to happen. Evans and Childers shine but I had to take Peach County in this one
Peach 24 Central 20
Mount de Sales-Twiggs - I literally have no idea who will win this game. Both teams are 1-3 but Twiggs is coming off an impressive win against Hancock Central , who had defeated Tattnall a week earlier. I have no clue how good either team is, so I went with the home team
Twiggs 26 MDS 20
Tattnall-Wilkinson Co= I literally have no idea who will win this game. Tattnall was 3-0 and then got pounded and showed maybe they aren't the team to beat in its sub region. I know nothing about Wilkinson except Central beat them 31-0. Once again I will go with the home team
WILCO 31 Tattnall 24
Howard-Perry Perry will be ready to play this game but this is an absolute must win for barney Hesters team if they want to make the playoffs. Don't bet against Barney when he has to have one
Howard 30 Perry 14
That's it for now. Go watch a game and thank you for the support
I had a friend of mine who I think I will hire as my agent that helped me get the word out about my last blog, and she helped it grow from 135 at 2:00 pm to 225 tonight. She gave me some great advice and that was "John I can get them to read one blog, but you have to have interesting stuff for them to come back once or twice a week. A truer statement has never been uttered.
I am going to write a bit tonight about my pickems for the newspaper that will show up in Fridays paper. I am not leading, which is a disappointment, but it is still early and I still hope to win. But we have difficult games every week and this week is no different.
FPD-Stratford- The most difficult thing is picking a game in which you have seen neither team. I picked Stratford to beat Aquinas and they threatened but could not get the win at home. I was in Mark Farribas office on Tuesday and I made the statement that I had picked them for the upset against Aquinas, and he got this look on his face, then looked away and said something to the affect of I hate that people think that would have been an upset. That made my mind up who I was picking in this game.Farriba, I believe, thinks his team is pretty good. I think that the Eagles have too much fire power for FPD, but I also think it will be close. Cephus could have a big toll in this game and who does FPD have that can go up with him and make a play on the ball. McSwain can run with him for sure, but we are talking 5'10 against 6'2.FPD has shown that they are a pretty good defensive football team, but they have lacked firepower on offense. It's time that Greg Moore unleashes some weapons for a spark.
I will take Stratford by a score of 27-21
Peach Co- Central- What a game this could be. Its at home for Central , who is still looking for that signature win, and beating Peach would do the trick. After seeing Central last weekend, I don't think its going to happen. Evans and Childers shine but I had to take Peach County in this one
Peach 24 Central 20
Mount de Sales-Twiggs - I literally have no idea who will win this game. Both teams are 1-3 but Twiggs is coming off an impressive win against Hancock Central , who had defeated Tattnall a week earlier. I have no clue how good either team is, so I went with the home team
Twiggs 26 MDS 20
Tattnall-Wilkinson Co= I literally have no idea who will win this game. Tattnall was 3-0 and then got pounded and showed maybe they aren't the team to beat in its sub region. I know nothing about Wilkinson except Central beat them 31-0. Once again I will go with the home team
WILCO 31 Tattnall 24
Howard-Perry Perry will be ready to play this game but this is an absolute must win for barney Hesters team if they want to make the playoffs. Don't bet against Barney when he has to have one
Howard 30 Perry 14
That's it for now. Go watch a game and thank you for the support
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
HERE We Go Top 15 high school football players in Macon
I have seen almost everyone now, and since my numbers are down, I have to come up with something a little better.
So I present my top 15 Macon school football players, as picked by myself and my panel of high school experts(which include moms, dads, sportswriters,fans, two dogs, etc.)
Now these are what I see and hear. If I am leaving out someone that deserves to be here, let me know and I will consider them. Obviously the list is heavy on offensive skill players because linemen and defensive guys are harder to notice. Plus I don't see defensive stats real often.
Here we go
15-Tres Hattaway-WR- Mount de Sales- Now maybe the most difficult picks are down around number 15, because I have maybe 25 on the list, but I think Hattaway is a deserving player. He has 17 catches for 256 yards in just four games and has the ability to stretch the field in Keith Hatchers passing attack. The Cavaliers are looking to move up and make the playoffs and to do this they will have to beat some of the Macon schools that have owned them recently. Hattaway , along with running back Adrian Hardwick, will be the keys to any success the Cavs may have.
14- Will McCormick-QB-FPD- McCormick has 220 yards rushing and 147 yards rushing for FPD and has to be very good for FPD to make the playoffs this year. That push starts on Friday night when the Vikings meet Stratford.
13- Destin Mack -QB- Tattnall- The Trojans were cruising for the first three games of the year and then got drilled by Hancock Central. Ok so maybe Hancock is really good this year ? Well no, they get drilled by a winless Twiggs County team. So really, no one can figure out what is going on in this region. Tattnall travels to Wilkinson County this weekend and we will see right away if the loss to Hancock was just a dream or if the Trojans are not as good as they have been. Mack is a first year starting quarterback and he has had success,throwing for close to 400 yards and running for around 200 yards. He will have to continue to get better for Tattnall to even get into the playoffs.
12-Jordan Slocum-QB-Southwest- I debated on this one for a long time and this kid could be rated a lot higher. However, he is a freshman and his team is going to have to truly battle for a playoff spot. With that being said, this young man, the nephew of MDS athletic director Robert Slocum, is the real deal and may be the best quarterback prospect from Macon since, well since his coach Joe Dupree signed with Georgia. I saw him throw four touchdowns in a game two weeks ago, and I think Coach Joe needs to give him the reigns to air it out.
11-JaQwun Stinson-RB-Howard- I am not sure what happened to Stinson last Friday night against West Laurens, but he had less the 30 yards on the ground. I had him rated much higher than that before that happened. He has rushed for 345 yards in 5 games, but the Huskies need to run the football if they are going to make the playoffs. Stinson will have to come up big the rest of the year, and that starts with a tough Perry team this Friday night.
10-Christian Tate-RB-Covenant- I know I know this is the GICAA-but Tate had 206 yards on 6 carries last Friday night, and is visiting schools like UGA and Tennessee. Is he a d1 talent ? Well that remains to be seen, but he is 6'0 and around 255 pounds and from what I am hearing, runs around a 4'6 40. Hmmm, that might make him a D1 guy just by itself. I have watched him run on tape and he runs hard and downhill, but I see him running over 150 pound linemen. Still he has got to be mentioned. His team is undefeated and probably will remain that way the entire year. It will be interesting where this guy ends up.
9-Courvoisier King-QB-Howard- King has been great so far this year until the Huskies ran into a very good West Laurens team that made Kind look average. But the Huskies would not be 4-1 with him. He needs to bounce back this week and play his game. Perry wont be easy, but King should get the 160 yards passing he needs to reach 1000 for the season
8-Quintez Cephus-WR-Stratford- I have thought long and hard where this guy was going to be on my list. I have had a few say he should be at the top of it, but I am not ready to anoint him to that capacity yet. The move to WR this year has helped the Eagles a great deal and Cephus has 16 receptions for 323 yards and six touchdowns already, and he had a big game a few weeks ago against Aquinas, but Stratford lost the game. Lets see what happens this week against FPD and maybe he can move up.
7. Chandler King-DE-Central- my only defensive player on the list, this kid made me pay attention to him. He had 18 tackles as a DE against Westside, and just dominated when I saw him play against Spencer last Friday night. He had at least three tackles for loss, and a million tackles, and I am not sure the Chargers would have won the game without him. He is a difference maker and he is a college football player next year.
6. Savion Knowlton-QB-Westside-the junior has quietly had a solid season and his team is 5-0.This kid is a first year starter and has thrown for 726 yards and 12 touchdowns and although Westside has big time receivers, they have to have someone to get them the ball. Knowlton is the guy
5.O'Showen Williams-RB-Stratford-sat out the GMC game last Friday but already has close to 350 yards rushing for the Eagles. O'Showen is healthy and ready to go against FPD on Friday night and when healthy,no one has been able to slow him down. The Eagles need Williams to be very good for the rest of the season.
4-Justin Slocum-WR-Southwest- 6'6 WR who can straight go get the football. I watched him outfight defenders three times for touchdowns in his last game, and he has the ability to outrun folks too. The Patriots will be fighting for a playoff berth the rest of the season, and I think Slocum to Slocum gives them a chance. This guy is a D1 football talent.
3-Antonio Sanders Jr-RB-Central-The guy is averaging over 100 yards a game in Centrals pass first offense, but he is a big part of the game plan. He is not that big of a kid, but is probably around 200 pounds and he just runs hard. Central will also be in a fight for a playoff spot, and the Peach County game this Friday night will be huge. Sanders Jr will have to play a big part in the game if the Chargers are going to win. He did fumble twice last week fighting for extra yards, but I am sure Jesse Hicks has that taken care of.
2-Gerimie Mitchell and Steve Dolphus- WR- Westside- 5'5 and 6'5, speed and power, the Seminoles are blessed to have this senior combo, and they have already combined for close to 600 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. Westside can also run the football with Donta Pate and Nygel Woodard, but this combo will be the story when it comes to the Seminoles doing well in the playoffs.
1-Derrick Evans-QB-Central- Evans has actually struggled a bit in the last two games and the Chargers need him to be at his best this week against Peach County. Evans has already thrown for 980 yards and 12 touchdowns, but what makes him special is that he has not thrown an interception in the first five games. The colleges are starting to notice him, but it is hard for me to imagine him not playing college basketball. This is a well grounded young man who is the leader of the resurgence of the football program at Central
Honorable Mention
Ladarian Womack -Rutland
Donta Pate-Westside
Alphonzo Stevens-Howard
Reggie Gant- FPD
Torian McSwain-FPD
Ivorie Childers- Central
Sim Patrick -Stratford
Let me know what you all think and I am open to hearing some other names
So I present my top 15 Macon school football players, as picked by myself and my panel of high school experts(which include moms, dads, sportswriters,fans, two dogs, etc.)
Now these are what I see and hear. If I am leaving out someone that deserves to be here, let me know and I will consider them. Obviously the list is heavy on offensive skill players because linemen and defensive guys are harder to notice. Plus I don't see defensive stats real often.
Here we go
15-Tres Hattaway-WR- Mount de Sales- Now maybe the most difficult picks are down around number 15, because I have maybe 25 on the list, but I think Hattaway is a deserving player. He has 17 catches for 256 yards in just four games and has the ability to stretch the field in Keith Hatchers passing attack. The Cavaliers are looking to move up and make the playoffs and to do this they will have to beat some of the Macon schools that have owned them recently. Hattaway , along with running back Adrian Hardwick, will be the keys to any success the Cavs may have.
14- Will McCormick-QB-FPD- McCormick has 220 yards rushing and 147 yards rushing for FPD and has to be very good for FPD to make the playoffs this year. That push starts on Friday night when the Vikings meet Stratford.
13- Destin Mack -QB- Tattnall- The Trojans were cruising for the first three games of the year and then got drilled by Hancock Central. Ok so maybe Hancock is really good this year ? Well no, they get drilled by a winless Twiggs County team. So really, no one can figure out what is going on in this region. Tattnall travels to Wilkinson County this weekend and we will see right away if the loss to Hancock was just a dream or if the Trojans are not as good as they have been. Mack is a first year starting quarterback and he has had success,throwing for close to 400 yards and running for around 200 yards. He will have to continue to get better for Tattnall to even get into the playoffs.
12-Jordan Slocum-QB-Southwest- I debated on this one for a long time and this kid could be rated a lot higher. However, he is a freshman and his team is going to have to truly battle for a playoff spot. With that being said, this young man, the nephew of MDS athletic director Robert Slocum, is the real deal and may be the best quarterback prospect from Macon since, well since his coach Joe Dupree signed with Georgia. I saw him throw four touchdowns in a game two weeks ago, and I think Coach Joe needs to give him the reigns to air it out.
11-JaQwun Stinson-RB-Howard- I am not sure what happened to Stinson last Friday night against West Laurens, but he had less the 30 yards on the ground. I had him rated much higher than that before that happened. He has rushed for 345 yards in 5 games, but the Huskies need to run the football if they are going to make the playoffs. Stinson will have to come up big the rest of the year, and that starts with a tough Perry team this Friday night.
10-Christian Tate-RB-Covenant- I know I know this is the GICAA-but Tate had 206 yards on 6 carries last Friday night, and is visiting schools like UGA and Tennessee. Is he a d1 talent ? Well that remains to be seen, but he is 6'0 and around 255 pounds and from what I am hearing, runs around a 4'6 40. Hmmm, that might make him a D1 guy just by itself. I have watched him run on tape and he runs hard and downhill, but I see him running over 150 pound linemen. Still he has got to be mentioned. His team is undefeated and probably will remain that way the entire year. It will be interesting where this guy ends up.
9-Courvoisier King-QB-Howard- King has been great so far this year until the Huskies ran into a very good West Laurens team that made Kind look average. But the Huskies would not be 4-1 with him. He needs to bounce back this week and play his game. Perry wont be easy, but King should get the 160 yards passing he needs to reach 1000 for the season
8-Quintez Cephus-WR-Stratford- I have thought long and hard where this guy was going to be on my list. I have had a few say he should be at the top of it, but I am not ready to anoint him to that capacity yet. The move to WR this year has helped the Eagles a great deal and Cephus has 16 receptions for 323 yards and six touchdowns already, and he had a big game a few weeks ago against Aquinas, but Stratford lost the game. Lets see what happens this week against FPD and maybe he can move up.
7. Chandler King-DE-Central- my only defensive player on the list, this kid made me pay attention to him. He had 18 tackles as a DE against Westside, and just dominated when I saw him play against Spencer last Friday night. He had at least three tackles for loss, and a million tackles, and I am not sure the Chargers would have won the game without him. He is a difference maker and he is a college football player next year.
6. Savion Knowlton-QB-Westside-the junior has quietly had a solid season and his team is 5-0.This kid is a first year starter and has thrown for 726 yards and 12 touchdowns and although Westside has big time receivers, they have to have someone to get them the ball. Knowlton is the guy
5.O'Showen Williams-RB-Stratford-sat out the GMC game last Friday but already has close to 350 yards rushing for the Eagles. O'Showen is healthy and ready to go against FPD on Friday night and when healthy,no one has been able to slow him down. The Eagles need Williams to be very good for the rest of the season.
4-Justin Slocum-WR-Southwest- 6'6 WR who can straight go get the football. I watched him outfight defenders three times for touchdowns in his last game, and he has the ability to outrun folks too. The Patriots will be fighting for a playoff berth the rest of the season, and I think Slocum to Slocum gives them a chance. This guy is a D1 football talent.
3-Antonio Sanders Jr-RB-Central-The guy is averaging over 100 yards a game in Centrals pass first offense, but he is a big part of the game plan. He is not that big of a kid, but is probably around 200 pounds and he just runs hard. Central will also be in a fight for a playoff spot, and the Peach County game this Friday night will be huge. Sanders Jr will have to play a big part in the game if the Chargers are going to win. He did fumble twice last week fighting for extra yards, but I am sure Jesse Hicks has that taken care of.
2-Gerimie Mitchell and Steve Dolphus- WR- Westside- 5'5 and 6'5, speed and power, the Seminoles are blessed to have this senior combo, and they have already combined for close to 600 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. Westside can also run the football with Donta Pate and Nygel Woodard, but this combo will be the story when it comes to the Seminoles doing well in the playoffs.
1-Derrick Evans-QB-Central- Evans has actually struggled a bit in the last two games and the Chargers need him to be at his best this week against Peach County. Evans has already thrown for 980 yards and 12 touchdowns, but what makes him special is that he has not thrown an interception in the first five games. The colleges are starting to notice him, but it is hard for me to imagine him not playing college basketball. This is a well grounded young man who is the leader of the resurgence of the football program at Central
Honorable Mention
Ladarian Womack -Rutland
Donta Pate-Westside
Alphonzo Stevens-Howard
Reggie Gant- FPD
Torian McSwain-FPD
Ivorie Childers- Central
Sim Patrick -Stratford
Let me know what you all think and I am open to hearing some other names
Saturday, September 19, 2015
friday (and thursday) night lights
What a great high school football weekend
What we found out .
1. Westside is for real - Central gave Westside everything they could handle and took them to overtime, but once again the Seminoles and Spoon Risper found a way to win the football game. I believe if you go back to my last blog I said I liked Westside because of the kicker and thats how the game was decided.
2. Tattnall- I am not sure what happened to the Trojans this weekend. They had showed signs of having a very good football team early in the year, but Warren County, not exactly a football power, beat them by 20 points or more. It looks like Tattnall may have some issue son both sides of the ball
3. Stratford- I drank the Stratford kool-aid and called for the upset over Aquinas. With Stratford being at home I thought it was a good possibility. The Eagles stayed in the game the entire way, but Mark Farriba said they still are a great football team who can find a way to win. The bad thing is that they have a lot of seniors at the skill positions and time is running out for them to get that signature win. O'Showen Williams and Cephus both had huge games.
4. Southwest- Showed what should be the most dominating duo in Macon with Jordan and Justin Slocum, who combined for three touchdowns on Thursday. Jordan , the freshman, showed a knack for getting the ball close to his big brother, and Justin did the rest, outfighting people for the ball on at least two occasions. In my opinion, Slocum to Slocum should hit it big, but the ball has to go that way more often than it does. Feed him Coach, feed him. Five targets in a game is not enough. Justin has got to touch the ball if Southwest is going to save its season
5-Central -Two heartbreaking losses to Howard and now Westside leaves the Chargers on the fringe of making the playoffs. It is true that they have a weaker part of the schedule coming up, and they should be ok , but you have to win the close ones. Derrick Evans evidently did not have any time to throw the ball against Westside and I think I read where he did not have any passing yards heading into the second half. That's almost hard to believe.
Rutland-They lost to Kendrick 20-18 and the road for them is not looking good.
MY picks didn't look too good this week. I KNOW I lost Stratford, Tattnall, Perry and Rutland, Two of the games were close and two of them were blowouts, and I am sure this will drop me down in the Telegraph pickems, which I had vowed to win. The season is still young.
Another week of huge games highlighted by Lincoln County against FPD, West Laurens against Howard, and for the GISA fan in you, Windsor against Piedmont.
I also like folks that back up what they say. A few weeks ago, I was talking to my friend Matt Chambless, the AD at Covenant, and they have Khristian Tate, a 6'0 250 pound running back , who I have mentioned a few times before. The Covenant faithful insists he is getting major college looks and runs a 4.5 40. When I questioned that time, they basically asked me when I wanted to see it, and then they followed through and I think that will happen this week. I mean, if the kid runs a 4'6 that's pretty amazing for 250 pounds. I will keep you all posted on what's happening.
Go see some football and spread the word about my blog
What we found out .
1. Westside is for real - Central gave Westside everything they could handle and took them to overtime, but once again the Seminoles and Spoon Risper found a way to win the football game. I believe if you go back to my last blog I said I liked Westside because of the kicker and thats how the game was decided.
2. Tattnall- I am not sure what happened to the Trojans this weekend. They had showed signs of having a very good football team early in the year, but Warren County, not exactly a football power, beat them by 20 points or more. It looks like Tattnall may have some issue son both sides of the ball
3. Stratford- I drank the Stratford kool-aid and called for the upset over Aquinas. With Stratford being at home I thought it was a good possibility. The Eagles stayed in the game the entire way, but Mark Farriba said they still are a great football team who can find a way to win. The bad thing is that they have a lot of seniors at the skill positions and time is running out for them to get that signature win. O'Showen Williams and Cephus both had huge games.
4. Southwest- Showed what should be the most dominating duo in Macon with Jordan and Justin Slocum, who combined for three touchdowns on Thursday. Jordan , the freshman, showed a knack for getting the ball close to his big brother, and Justin did the rest, outfighting people for the ball on at least two occasions. In my opinion, Slocum to Slocum should hit it big, but the ball has to go that way more often than it does. Feed him Coach, feed him. Five targets in a game is not enough. Justin has got to touch the ball if Southwest is going to save its season
5-Central -Two heartbreaking losses to Howard and now Westside leaves the Chargers on the fringe of making the playoffs. It is true that they have a weaker part of the schedule coming up, and they should be ok , but you have to win the close ones. Derrick Evans evidently did not have any time to throw the ball against Westside and I think I read where he did not have any passing yards heading into the second half. That's almost hard to believe.
Rutland-They lost to Kendrick 20-18 and the road for them is not looking good.
MY picks didn't look too good this week. I KNOW I lost Stratford, Tattnall, Perry and Rutland, Two of the games were close and two of them were blowouts, and I am sure this will drop me down in the Telegraph pickems, which I had vowed to win. The season is still young.
Another week of huge games highlighted by Lincoln County against FPD, West Laurens against Howard, and for the GISA fan in you, Windsor against Piedmont.
I also like folks that back up what they say. A few weeks ago, I was talking to my friend Matt Chambless, the AD at Covenant, and they have Khristian Tate, a 6'0 250 pound running back , who I have mentioned a few times before. The Covenant faithful insists he is getting major college looks and runs a 4.5 40. When I questioned that time, they basically asked me when I wanted to see it, and then they followed through and I think that will happen this week. I mean, if the kid runs a 4'6 that's pretty amazing for 250 pounds. I will keep you all posted on what's happening.
Go see some football and spread the word about my blog
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
the week in high school football
I am a torn man
For years I have wanted to do the Telegraphs football picks because I was sure that I would win, because after all, I do know sports. Well after three week of picking I am not winning.
Sure I still expect to win, but some of these games are driving me to drinking on Friday nights.
It all started with the Howard-Central game a few weeks ago. I go with Central and they are winning late, but the Huskies score, go for two and win 30-29. That one was hurtful for me.
Last week I was all set to pick Westside over West Laurens, but I changed the pick on Thursday to WL.
Naturally WL loses by 3 after leading much of the game.
I think I need some luck to turn my way
This week is equally difficult, and after two days of looking, I still am undecided on six of them.
Warner Robins-HOCO - My heart picks Warner Robins. I mean I did go to school there and they have the tradition and seem to have a solid team this year. However, HOCO is the hot team right now, the glamour team of the area with Jake Fromm being recruited by everyone. My heart says Warner Robins, but common sense says,, well we will have to wait and see.
Westside-Central: The Seminoles have NEVER lost to a Macon school in football. So why is this pick so difficult ? Because I think Central is gonna knock them off. I really really think they will. It's not that Westside doesn't have a great team, they are undefeated and coming off of a huge win, while Central failed its early big test with Howard. Both teams are loaded with skill players and it will come down to who can stop who. MY heart says Central, but common sense tells me that Westside has a kicker in Halvorson that can win a game. So I am 100 percent that I will pick - hmm Derrick Evans and Ivorie Childers or Steve Dolphus and Geremie Mitchell. HMMM let me think about it.
Aquinas- Stratford: It is time for me to put up or shut up. I picked Stratford to win the region , so I need to pick then to win this home game right ?
I just don't know.
The Eagles are improved from last year and have a quarterback with weapons. But can I pick them to win THIS game. MY heart says go with the Eagles, but my mind says go the other way. You will have to read the paper to see what I end up doing.
I also struggle with MDS-Strong Rock and Lagrange-Mary Persons as well as Kendrick and Rutland,,
Flipping a coin maybe.
KoKNows sports honor roll
Covenants- Leon Simmons and Christian Tate- These guys are running over opponents and after looking at their schedule, they have a great chance to go undefeated this year. Both of these guys gained over 100 yards last week, and both could play at most schools in Macon. It is true that the competition level is weak, but they are getting it done at the level they are playing at, which deserves some attention. I still want to see the 4.5 though.
FPD- Reggie Gant- ran for 65 yards and a score as FPDs offense woke up in the second half against Monticello
Tattnall Square- Dustin Mack continues to improve at quarterback, leading Tattnall to a hard earned win over Strong Rock
MDS- got its first win over GMS and Hardwick, a sophomore running back, had 122 yards on the ground. The Cavs are getting solid quarterback play from Pinkney Gilchrist and have a tough game with Strong Rock this weekend
Rutland- Ladarian Womack had 79 yards rushing against Howard and was really the only bright spot for the Hurricanes
Howard- Courviosier King and Jaqwun Stinson- might be the best qb-rb tandem in Macon this year and they have led Howard to a 4-0 start. The schedule gets tough in a week when they take on West Laurens.
Westside- had a big win over West Laurens with Knowlton, Dolphus and Mitchell all having big games.
Southwest- Has a crucial game this week against Spencer. Jordan Slocum a freshman quarterback had a great game in a loss to Peach County, and will have to continue to get better if the Patriots want to make the playoffs.
If I forgot anyone tell me
For years I have wanted to do the Telegraphs football picks because I was sure that I would win, because after all, I do know sports. Well after three week of picking I am not winning.
Sure I still expect to win, but some of these games are driving me to drinking on Friday nights.
It all started with the Howard-Central game a few weeks ago. I go with Central and they are winning late, but the Huskies score, go for two and win 30-29. That one was hurtful for me.
Last week I was all set to pick Westside over West Laurens, but I changed the pick on Thursday to WL.
Naturally WL loses by 3 after leading much of the game.
I think I need some luck to turn my way
This week is equally difficult, and after two days of looking, I still am undecided on six of them.
Warner Robins-HOCO - My heart picks Warner Robins. I mean I did go to school there and they have the tradition and seem to have a solid team this year. However, HOCO is the hot team right now, the glamour team of the area with Jake Fromm being recruited by everyone. My heart says Warner Robins, but common sense says,, well we will have to wait and see.
Westside-Central: The Seminoles have NEVER lost to a Macon school in football. So why is this pick so difficult ? Because I think Central is gonna knock them off. I really really think they will. It's not that Westside doesn't have a great team, they are undefeated and coming off of a huge win, while Central failed its early big test with Howard. Both teams are loaded with skill players and it will come down to who can stop who. MY heart says Central, but common sense tells me that Westside has a kicker in Halvorson that can win a game. So I am 100 percent that I will pick - hmm Derrick Evans and Ivorie Childers or Steve Dolphus and Geremie Mitchell. HMMM let me think about it.
Aquinas- Stratford: It is time for me to put up or shut up. I picked Stratford to win the region , so I need to pick then to win this home game right ?
I just don't know.
The Eagles are improved from last year and have a quarterback with weapons. But can I pick them to win THIS game. MY heart says go with the Eagles, but my mind says go the other way. You will have to read the paper to see what I end up doing.
I also struggle with MDS-Strong Rock and Lagrange-Mary Persons as well as Kendrick and Rutland,,
Flipping a coin maybe.
KoKNows sports honor roll
Covenants- Leon Simmons and Christian Tate- These guys are running over opponents and after looking at their schedule, they have a great chance to go undefeated this year. Both of these guys gained over 100 yards last week, and both could play at most schools in Macon. It is true that the competition level is weak, but they are getting it done at the level they are playing at, which deserves some attention. I still want to see the 4.5 though.
FPD- Reggie Gant- ran for 65 yards and a score as FPDs offense woke up in the second half against Monticello
Tattnall Square- Dustin Mack continues to improve at quarterback, leading Tattnall to a hard earned win over Strong Rock
MDS- got its first win over GMS and Hardwick, a sophomore running back, had 122 yards on the ground. The Cavs are getting solid quarterback play from Pinkney Gilchrist and have a tough game with Strong Rock this weekend
Rutland- Ladarian Womack had 79 yards rushing against Howard and was really the only bright spot for the Hurricanes
Howard- Courviosier King and Jaqwun Stinson- might be the best qb-rb tandem in Macon this year and they have led Howard to a 4-0 start. The schedule gets tough in a week when they take on West Laurens.
Westside- had a big win over West Laurens with Knowlton, Dolphus and Mitchell all having big games.
Southwest- Has a crucial game this week against Spencer. Jordan Slocum a freshman quarterback had a great game in a loss to Peach County, and will have to continue to get better if the Patriots want to make the playoffs.
If I forgot anyone tell me
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Macon High School Football
WOW
WOW
I mean that is really all I can say at this point
The Macon football scene is probably as strong in the last 10 years and the thing that is surprising is it looks like all the Macon schools will be pretty good this year. Look at the head to head so far,Westside beat Rutland,but it wasn't a blowout, then Rutland beats Northeast in a nail biter,Southwest edges Northeast, and Central and Howard play a classic, and Howard plays a game with FPD that was close for a long time,
That was a lot in a sentence or two
Ok so here are my rankings for the Macon schools
1. Westside-To be the big dog you have to beat the big dog, and so far no one has. The Seminoles are loaded at WR and have found a QB to get them the ball, plus they have a plethora of RB that have performed well early in the season. As usual defense is stout. They have a real test this weekend against a very good West Laurens team, but I expect Mitchell and Dolphus to get them through it. The Noles and the Spoon are primed for a big year.
Howard-Barney Hester works miracles wherever he goes, but what he has done at Howard puts him in the category of being one of the best coaches ever in Middle Georgia. I mean Howard is 3-0 with at least one more win coming in the next game and then it gets really tough. But with wins over Lamar, FPD and Central, the Huskies are already battle tested. King and Stinson are both having big years after going through all the losing seasons, and I am fairly confident that Barney will lead them to the state playoffs for the first time in the schools history.The Central game was like a Friday night lights scenario, Howard scores late and goes for two and the win and they get it. Cmon who does that anymore? Barney Hester does, that's who
Central- I read a story on Derrick Evans getting looks now at the D1 level as a qb and all I can think of is, this kid is already a D1 level young man. I hope I get to see them play this year because I just like the way this guy carries himself. I still think he is a D1 basketball player, and I hope he gets to make the choice. Central lost a heartbreaker to Howard, but Central will bounce back and have a great chance to make the playoffs, Childers may be the best receiver in the area and the Sanders kid is a bruising runner. I cant wait to see them play
Southwest- has started off 1-1 and they will have to fight and claw to get where they want to be , which is the playoffs. Joe Dupree's team totally won me over when I saw them in the gym, working as a team, and it is probably expected for them to have growing pains because they are starting a freshman Qb in Jordan Slocum. Scott has done a solid job of running the football but Justin Slocum has to be a focal point of the offense to get them going.
Tattnall- The demise of Tattnall has been greatly exaggerated. Everyone said they would be down this year after losing 19 seniors, but they have shown that Barron and Mack can carry the offense, and Aubrien Kemp is a two way threat. Clint Morgan is coaching his kids this year,not Hesters, and things are working out pretty good for them so far
Stratford- So lets just ask the question. Is it possible that one of the most highly recruited basketball players in this area could end up switching to football as his college choice ? QT do you want to answer that ? The Eagles got pounded by Wesleyan but Cephus went 8 catches for 98 yards and I am hearing rumblings that he is turning into a D1 football recruit. I believe that Stratford has enough offense to be a player in the playoffs this year and win the region. O"Showen are you hearing me lol?
Rutland- I always root for Rutland because of George Collins. The Canes are 1-1 and its true they probably wont make the playoffs, but they will battle every game and will make life difficult for some teams. They are also starting a young quarterback, but a 5 win season is not out of the question for them
FPD- I am unsure about the Vikings right now and I think we will find out a lot about them after the Monticello game. That is a game the Vikings cannot afford to lose. They have some skill players with McCormick and Morris, but need someone else to step up. I think that guy could be Torian McSwain, but we will see if he gets enough touches to make a difference
Mount de Sales- I believe the Cavs are on the right track with Keith Hatcher, but I believe they are still a year away. They should have a chance to sneak into the playoffs, but they wont make noise this year. At least that's my opinion
Covenant- I have heard rumors flying that Khristian Tate is getting D1 looks, and big D1 looks. He is 6'0 and about 250 pounds and I hear he runs a 4'5, but I may have to go out there with a stop watch and time the 40. I have watched him online and he does run over people when he carries the ball but its just hard to see how good he is at this point because he is running over 150 pound linemen. I always root for the small schools though, and hear is hoping the rumors are true and this kid is a D1 guy.
Windsor is Windsor. They are much better than they have been in the past, but maybe not quite as good as they were 6 years ago. They have a running back in Brooks that could play and start at most Macon schools and a big lineman that will probably play in college, but they lost their second game like 43-6. Still they are a playoff team in the gISA
WOW
I mean that is really all I can say at this point
The Macon football scene is probably as strong in the last 10 years and the thing that is surprising is it looks like all the Macon schools will be pretty good this year. Look at the head to head so far,Westside beat Rutland,but it wasn't a blowout, then Rutland beats Northeast in a nail biter,Southwest edges Northeast, and Central and Howard play a classic, and Howard plays a game with FPD that was close for a long time,
That was a lot in a sentence or two
Ok so here are my rankings for the Macon schools
1. Westside-To be the big dog you have to beat the big dog, and so far no one has. The Seminoles are loaded at WR and have found a QB to get them the ball, plus they have a plethora of RB that have performed well early in the season. As usual defense is stout. They have a real test this weekend against a very good West Laurens team, but I expect Mitchell and Dolphus to get them through it. The Noles and the Spoon are primed for a big year.
Howard-Barney Hester works miracles wherever he goes, but what he has done at Howard puts him in the category of being one of the best coaches ever in Middle Georgia. I mean Howard is 3-0 with at least one more win coming in the next game and then it gets really tough. But with wins over Lamar, FPD and Central, the Huskies are already battle tested. King and Stinson are both having big years after going through all the losing seasons, and I am fairly confident that Barney will lead them to the state playoffs for the first time in the schools history.The Central game was like a Friday night lights scenario, Howard scores late and goes for two and the win and they get it. Cmon who does that anymore? Barney Hester does, that's who
Central- I read a story on Derrick Evans getting looks now at the D1 level as a qb and all I can think of is, this kid is already a D1 level young man. I hope I get to see them play this year because I just like the way this guy carries himself. I still think he is a D1 basketball player, and I hope he gets to make the choice. Central lost a heartbreaker to Howard, but Central will bounce back and have a great chance to make the playoffs, Childers may be the best receiver in the area and the Sanders kid is a bruising runner. I cant wait to see them play
Southwest- has started off 1-1 and they will have to fight and claw to get where they want to be , which is the playoffs. Joe Dupree's team totally won me over when I saw them in the gym, working as a team, and it is probably expected for them to have growing pains because they are starting a freshman Qb in Jordan Slocum. Scott has done a solid job of running the football but Justin Slocum has to be a focal point of the offense to get them going.
Tattnall- The demise of Tattnall has been greatly exaggerated. Everyone said they would be down this year after losing 19 seniors, but they have shown that Barron and Mack can carry the offense, and Aubrien Kemp is a two way threat. Clint Morgan is coaching his kids this year,not Hesters, and things are working out pretty good for them so far
Stratford- So lets just ask the question. Is it possible that one of the most highly recruited basketball players in this area could end up switching to football as his college choice ? QT do you want to answer that ? The Eagles got pounded by Wesleyan but Cephus went 8 catches for 98 yards and I am hearing rumblings that he is turning into a D1 football recruit. I believe that Stratford has enough offense to be a player in the playoffs this year and win the region. O"Showen are you hearing me lol?
Rutland- I always root for Rutland because of George Collins. The Canes are 1-1 and its true they probably wont make the playoffs, but they will battle every game and will make life difficult for some teams. They are also starting a young quarterback, but a 5 win season is not out of the question for them
FPD- I am unsure about the Vikings right now and I think we will find out a lot about them after the Monticello game. That is a game the Vikings cannot afford to lose. They have some skill players with McCormick and Morris, but need someone else to step up. I think that guy could be Torian McSwain, but we will see if he gets enough touches to make a difference
Mount de Sales- I believe the Cavs are on the right track with Keith Hatcher, but I believe they are still a year away. They should have a chance to sneak into the playoffs, but they wont make noise this year. At least that's my opinion
Covenant- I have heard rumors flying that Khristian Tate is getting D1 looks, and big D1 looks. He is 6'0 and about 250 pounds and I hear he runs a 4'5, but I may have to go out there with a stop watch and time the 40. I have watched him online and he does run over people when he carries the ball but its just hard to see how good he is at this point because he is running over 150 pound linemen. I always root for the small schools though, and hear is hoping the rumors are true and this kid is a D1 guy.
Windsor is Windsor. They are much better than they have been in the past, but maybe not quite as good as they were 6 years ago. They have a running back in Brooks that could play and start at most Macon schools and a big lineman that will probably play in college, but they lost their second game like 43-6. Still they are a playoff team in the gISA
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
week 2 high school football and players off to a great start
Oh My God
The Central - Howard game this weekend looks to be a heavyweight battle that could be the best game between Macon teams in year. Sure the Northeast-Southwest game last weekend was a classic, but Central -Howard seems to be a game with two very good teams that have playoff chances playing in the second week of the season.
First lets talk about Howard, the laughing stock of Macon football since the school opened not long ago. It took three coaches to get it right, but Barney Hester is obviously the man. The Huskies have started off 2-0 for the first time in the schools history, and they didn't beat cupcakes. They beat two good football schools.
Coach Hester is a run first football team, He always has been. Bur evidently, the old guy is not scared to play to his talents. Courvoisier King is the quarterback Hester has never had and King has been giving the reigns to the offense, throwing for 573 yards and 6 touchdowns already. That's more than most Hester teams have in a year. Alphonso Stephens has 266 yards receiving and four touchdowns already, and Jerin Means had added 171 yards catching the football. Has Howard caught people by surprise throwing like this ? Sure they have. Will they have continued success in the air ? Sure they will. King is a senior and is ready for a breakout year. But if you start keying on him you had better watch out for JaQuan Stinson, who has rushed for 132 yards so far this season with people focused on stopping the run. When teams start trying to stop King, watch for Stinson to bust loose.
While King is going to have a big year, I believe if I had to pick one qb in Macon to lead my team to a win, I would have to pick Derrick Evans of Central. Evans has been starting since he was a little kid, and he is a full grown man as a senior. This kid has been through so many big situations on the basketball court and football field, and he is truly battle tested. He wasn't needed much in Centrals opening game win over Wilco, but still had 211 yards in the air and 77 on the ground,while Antonio Sanders ran for 176 yards.
So who wins this battle ?
I have no idea.
I am currently 17-3 in my picks and this is one that has made me go back and fourth several times. But because of Evans, I am going with Central and lets say a score of 27-22
Go out and see some high school football this weekend
The Central - Howard game this weekend looks to be a heavyweight battle that could be the best game between Macon teams in year. Sure the Northeast-Southwest game last weekend was a classic, but Central -Howard seems to be a game with two very good teams that have playoff chances playing in the second week of the season.
First lets talk about Howard, the laughing stock of Macon football since the school opened not long ago. It took three coaches to get it right, but Barney Hester is obviously the man. The Huskies have started off 2-0 for the first time in the schools history, and they didn't beat cupcakes. They beat two good football schools.
Coach Hester is a run first football team, He always has been. Bur evidently, the old guy is not scared to play to his talents. Courvoisier King is the quarterback Hester has never had and King has been giving the reigns to the offense, throwing for 573 yards and 6 touchdowns already. That's more than most Hester teams have in a year. Alphonso Stephens has 266 yards receiving and four touchdowns already, and Jerin Means had added 171 yards catching the football. Has Howard caught people by surprise throwing like this ? Sure they have. Will they have continued success in the air ? Sure they will. King is a senior and is ready for a breakout year. But if you start keying on him you had better watch out for JaQuan Stinson, who has rushed for 132 yards so far this season with people focused on stopping the run. When teams start trying to stop King, watch for Stinson to bust loose.
While King is going to have a big year, I believe if I had to pick one qb in Macon to lead my team to a win, I would have to pick Derrick Evans of Central. Evans has been starting since he was a little kid, and he is a full grown man as a senior. This kid has been through so many big situations on the basketball court and football field, and he is truly battle tested. He wasn't needed much in Centrals opening game win over Wilco, but still had 211 yards in the air and 77 on the ground,while Antonio Sanders ran for 176 yards.
So who wins this battle ?
I have no idea.
I am currently 17-3 in my picks and this is one that has made me go back and fourth several times. But because of Evans, I am going with Central and lets say a score of 27-22
Go out and see some high school football this weekend
Monday, August 24, 2015
Football and the weekend
I had the pure pleasure (sarcasm) of watching Windsor play Bethlehem Christian on Friday night and not only did I get my feet wet (literally) I got to see a full three hours and fifteen minutes of high school football. The first quarter alone lasted two days.
There were several reasons why a games lasts so long. Maybe both teams committed a lot of penalties (expected) because it was the first week of the season. Maybe one team(Bethlehem) ran the spread and threw the ball every play and completed less than half the passes. I can honestly say I have never seen so many bubble screens in my life. Message to teams playing Windsor: run the bubbler screen because Bethlehem had several big gains off of it.
The other reason the game lasted so long was that because Windsor simply is not used to winning. They were up 41-7 in the third quarter and were playing starters for the entire game. They were throwing the ball late in the fourth quarter, and the feel on the sideline was that it was a one possession game. Josh Brooks, the best player on the field, was dying from cramps, and he continued to get sent back in. The starting quarterback also played both ways for the entire game and was cramping by the end of it.
Cramping was a major issue for Windsor, with at least six players suffering, and some as early as the first half. I did not see any Bethlehem guys cramping.
Jimmy Watts has put together a talented team for sure, and they are going to win their fair share of games. I think the kids want to play for him and he does a great job. I would like to see him enjoy an easy win a little earlier though and maybe play some subs at the skill positions. But really, its just my opinion, and Coach could prob care less about my opinion.
The trip to Windsor is always enjoyable and who else had prime rib sandwiches in the concession stand. It really is an awesome place to go. The announcer calls it the best concession stand in the GISA. Well I would say its the best concession stand in Middle Georgia.
I believe my picks went pretty good this weekend. I went either 9-1 or 10-0, and I am in it to win it. Things really get started this week though with tons of good football games starting Thursday night with Howard and FPD, a game I may actually pay to see.
I will not be covering a game this Friday because I am moving Hayden to Greensboro. But I will definitely pick up the Telegraph on Saturday to see what happened.
Yes high school football is here
There were several reasons why a games lasts so long. Maybe both teams committed a lot of penalties (expected) because it was the first week of the season. Maybe one team(Bethlehem) ran the spread and threw the ball every play and completed less than half the passes. I can honestly say I have never seen so many bubble screens in my life. Message to teams playing Windsor: run the bubbler screen because Bethlehem had several big gains off of it.
The other reason the game lasted so long was that because Windsor simply is not used to winning. They were up 41-7 in the third quarter and were playing starters for the entire game. They were throwing the ball late in the fourth quarter, and the feel on the sideline was that it was a one possession game. Josh Brooks, the best player on the field, was dying from cramps, and he continued to get sent back in. The starting quarterback also played both ways for the entire game and was cramping by the end of it.
Cramping was a major issue for Windsor, with at least six players suffering, and some as early as the first half. I did not see any Bethlehem guys cramping.
Jimmy Watts has put together a talented team for sure, and they are going to win their fair share of games. I think the kids want to play for him and he does a great job. I would like to see him enjoy an easy win a little earlier though and maybe play some subs at the skill positions. But really, its just my opinion, and Coach could prob care less about my opinion.
The trip to Windsor is always enjoyable and who else had prime rib sandwiches in the concession stand. It really is an awesome place to go. The announcer calls it the best concession stand in the GISA. Well I would say its the best concession stand in Middle Georgia.
I believe my picks went pretty good this weekend. I went either 9-1 or 10-0, and I am in it to win it. Things really get started this week though with tons of good football games starting Thursday night with Howard and FPD, a game I may actually pay to see.
I will not be covering a game this Friday because I am moving Hayden to Greensboro. But I will definitely pick up the Telegraph on Saturday to see what happened.
Yes high school football is here
Monday, August 17, 2015
high school football is here
I didn't here much about the scrimmages from last week, but in a lot of cases I don't think it really matters.
For instance, Mount de Sales beat Howard. Does that make me think that Mount de Sales is better than Howard ? No, it tells me that the Cavaliers did everything they could to win the game and that Howard really did not care. I could be wrong, but I am not seeing Mount de Sales winning more than five games this year, but I am still saying that Howard could push for the playoffs. We will know right away if Howard is much improved as they open up this week against Lamar County.
I saw that Stratford, my pick to win region 7A, coasted to a win over somebody. They won by 10 but O'Showen Williams only carried the ball one time, so I am sure Mark Fariba played everyone. I truly believe that the Eagles will make a run this year, but like everyone else they have to stay healthy.
I think Westside crushed Northeast, a yearly thing in the scrimmage, and maybe its time for Bruce Mullen to find an easier scrimmage game. Westside will be good every year, while the Raiders are ok usually, but I cant figure out why Mullen wants to get beat up like that in a scrimmage.
Other results were a bit surprising. I hear that Mary Persons looked great and Southwest looked terrible, and Southwest is a team that I thought could make the playoffs this year. But they do have a freshman quarterback so that makes a playoff run a bit uncertain. Rumor is that Tattnall won its scrimmage but didn't look real good. Lets remember this: Clint Morgan has been playing with Barney Hesters players the last two years and now he is playing with his players. I think the Trojans will win seven games but I don't believe they will match last years success.
I also hear that FPD did not look good and Central beat them all over the field. Central has some solid skill players this years and a veteran quarterback in Derrick Evans, so I think they could be pretty good, while I believe FPD is way down this year. But in region 7A, a playoff spot is still fully possible.
I had four football previews in the paper on Sunday and the team I was most impressed with was Southwest. Head coach Joe Dupree had a hard working bunch of kids, and sooner or later that hard work will pay off. I am waiting on Justin Slocum to have a breakout year and be one of the better players in Macon.
I am hoping to cover someone this weekend as we do have some games. Feel free to comment on my Telegraph pre season picks that went out in sundays paper.
Have a good one
For instance, Mount de Sales beat Howard. Does that make me think that Mount de Sales is better than Howard ? No, it tells me that the Cavaliers did everything they could to win the game and that Howard really did not care. I could be wrong, but I am not seeing Mount de Sales winning more than five games this year, but I am still saying that Howard could push for the playoffs. We will know right away if Howard is much improved as they open up this week against Lamar County.
I saw that Stratford, my pick to win region 7A, coasted to a win over somebody. They won by 10 but O'Showen Williams only carried the ball one time, so I am sure Mark Fariba played everyone. I truly believe that the Eagles will make a run this year, but like everyone else they have to stay healthy.
I think Westside crushed Northeast, a yearly thing in the scrimmage, and maybe its time for Bruce Mullen to find an easier scrimmage game. Westside will be good every year, while the Raiders are ok usually, but I cant figure out why Mullen wants to get beat up like that in a scrimmage.
Other results were a bit surprising. I hear that Mary Persons looked great and Southwest looked terrible, and Southwest is a team that I thought could make the playoffs this year. But they do have a freshman quarterback so that makes a playoff run a bit uncertain. Rumor is that Tattnall won its scrimmage but didn't look real good. Lets remember this: Clint Morgan has been playing with Barney Hesters players the last two years and now he is playing with his players. I think the Trojans will win seven games but I don't believe they will match last years success.
I also hear that FPD did not look good and Central beat them all over the field. Central has some solid skill players this years and a veteran quarterback in Derrick Evans, so I think they could be pretty good, while I believe FPD is way down this year. But in region 7A, a playoff spot is still fully possible.
I had four football previews in the paper on Sunday and the team I was most impressed with was Southwest. Head coach Joe Dupree had a hard working bunch of kids, and sooner or later that hard work will pay off. I am waiting on Justin Slocum to have a breakout year and be one of the better players in Macon.
I am hoping to cover someone this weekend as we do have some games. Feel free to comment on my Telegraph pre season picks that went out in sundays paper.
Have a good one
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