Class 2A Quarterfinal Playoff Previews
Thomasville Bulldogs (8-4) at Callaway Cavaliers (9-1)
How They Got Here:
Thomasville defeated Westside (Aug) 42-13, Dodge County 44-7
Callaway defeated Banks County (Forfeit), Lovett 16-9
Noteworthy: This is an extremely interesting matchup as both teams reached the semi-finals and would love to finish off their deep run holding up the state championship trophy this year. Thomasville has played nothing but tough matchups all season longs as every team they have lost to is a quarterfinalist. Callaway represents the incredibly competitive Region 5 as its #1 seed and has really shown its depth throughout the season winning regardless of injuries. Both teams have had outstanding seasons and it is a shame one will come to an end on Friday night.
Bleckley County Royals (8-3) at Rabun County Wildcats (11-1)
How They Got Here:
Bleckley County defeated Vidalia 56-15, Early County 41-7
Rabun County defeated Haralson County 35-7, Model 35-0
Noteworthy: The Royals have turned it on once the playoffs arrived after losing their final two contests of the regular season. The Royals earned the fourth seed from Region 3, but they are the only team from their region left in the playoffs. Rabun County comes in with their lone loss coming to undefeated Class 4A Jefferson. The Wildcat offense has put up plenty of points this year eclipsing the 70 mark twice, and 60 mark three times. This is a tall task for Bleckley County to continue their winning ways on the road, but when things are clicking they have the pieces to make this a lot closer than most four seed versus one seed matchups.
Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes (12-0) at Fannin County Rebels (11-0)
How They Got Here:
Fitzgerald defeated Oglethorpe County 58-12, Northeast 35-18
Fannin County defeated Pace 28-21, Heard County 21-14
Noteworthy: Two undefeated, region champs going at it when we have reached this far in the playoffs just feels right this time of year. Fitzgerald has shown itself to be a complete team racking up quality wins all year long with some big wins over Pierce County, Thomasville, and Irwin County to name a few. The Rebels spent most of their season winning and winning big, but have proved to be able to win close games as both of their playoff wins have come by a touchdown. Only one teams’ hopes for an undefeated season and state championship will continue on Friday night.
Bremen Blue Devils (8-4) at Jefferson County Warriors (9-2)
How They Got Here:
Bremen defeated Elbert County 28-21, South Atlanta 42-6
Jefferson County defeated Cook 36-22, Jeff Davis 42-29
Noteworthy: The Blue Devils seemed to have found their groove as they seek their third consecutive road playoff win. They have a strong run game and stout defense which gives them a great opportunity to win in most games they play. They played a tough schedule both inside and outside of Region 5 which should give them great confidence heading into this game with Jefferson County. The Warriors have reeled off nine straight wins after two early season losses. A win for Jefferson County would put them back in the semi-finals for the first time since 2015 where they lost to Fitzgerald. A win here also sets up a potential rematch with Fitzgerald, whom they to lost by 2 before starting their win streak.