It’s time for some playoff football! There’s already some mild drama surrounding these first round matchups.
Two of the local playoff games will actually be played on Saturday, while one has already been decided in an unprecedented forfeit. KIPP Atlanta forfeited its first-round game at Banks County in response to a fight involving its players in the regular season finale loss to Chapel Hill. KIPP’s forfeit prior to the playoff game marks the first time in GHSA history, and the first forfeit of any kinds since 1994 in playoff action.
The good news for Banks is that they automatically advance to the second round, but this proves bitter-sweet for many, as it would have been the first playoff game since 2011 at home for Banks. They’ll likely be heading to #1-ranked Benedictine in the second round. The forfeit counts as a win, but it won’t have the same effect for the seniors and others who have been looking forward to this postseason for quite some time.
PLAYOFF SCHEDULE
#3 Rabun (9-0) vs BEST Academy (2-8) – SATURDAY at 7:30 PM, Tiger
This could be one of the most lopsided playoff games you’ll ever see based on overall records. Bailey Fisher and company look to remain unbeaten and march into a potential second round against #7 Vidalia. Rabun will be guaranteed home field for the first two games of the playoffs.
HISTORY: First ever meeting between the two schools.
#10 Dawson (7-2) vs #8 Lovett (7-3) – FRIDAY at 7:30 PM, Dawsonville
Coey Watson, Austin Young and Luke Martin lead the Tigers into their third home playoff game over the last two years. They haven’t lost at home in the playoffs, so don’t expect them to fall now. However, this Lovett team is a very tough #3 seed out of their region and won’t be easy to get past.
HISTORY: First ever meeting between the two schools.
Banks (6-4) vs KIPP (7-3) – FORFEITED by KIPP, Banks Advances
This aforementioned forfeit is in the books. Banks advances, but loses the glory of winning in front of the home crowd and letting these seniors get a chance at a legit playoff win. They’ll now likely head to #1-ranked Benedictine on the road, a heavy favorite to perhaps win the state championship. Banks County deserved better than KIPP’s forfeit. KIPP will face restitution to Banks County and some fines as well.
HISTORY: First ever meeting between the two schools.
#10 Stephens (8-2) vs Heritage, Catoosa (7-3) – FRIDAY at 7:30 PM, Toccoa
The Indians will be put to the test against Heritage and hope for their first home playoff win since 2011. AJ Howard, Jackson Bell and AJ Curry will lead the offensive attack for #10 Stephens County.
HISTORY: First ever meeting between the two schools.
Union @ #6 Cedar Grove – SATURDAY at 7:30 PM, Ellenwood
Cole Wright and the Panthers look to make the most of their fourth straight state playoff appearance. However, they’ve never won a playoff game, so they’d love to make it happen Saturday evening at #6 Cedar Grove. The offense has been spectacular and will get its points, but the defense will need to step up and give Union a chance at the upset.
HISTORY: First ever meeting between the two schools.
OTHER LOCAL GAMES:
#2 Buford vs North Springs
#4 Jefferson vs Pickens
Gainesville @ Harrison
West Hall @ #9 Troup
Chestatee @ #1 Cartersville
North Hall @ #3 Westminster
BYE
#6 Commerce (advances to Quarterfinals)
Feature Photo by Bobby Escoe
