Friday Night Preview: Raiders Play Host to East Hall

Friday night marks the official beginning to the new era in Raiders football as they play host on their new field to local opponents East Hall, whom Habersham hasn’t played since 1985.

BLITZ Game of the Week

Habersham Central (0-0; 0-0 8-AAAAAA) vs East Hall (0-0; 0-0 7-AAA)
WHEN: 7:30 pm
WHERE: Mt. Airy, GA (Habersham Central High School)
HIGHLIGHTS: Check for highlights on BLITZ website (Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter) for score updates and game highlights
PREVIOUS: Habersham Season Preview | Habersham/Banks Scrimmage Highlights

Habersham Central proved it was ready for the 2016 season with a 28-9 victory over Banks County in a recent scrimmage nearly two weeks ago. However, the Vikings will present a real test, as this one actually counts.

Head Coach Benji Harrison kicks off his second year in control of the Raiders, who are looking to make history by playing the first official football game on their new turf field.

Michael Babers was electric in the scrimmage win over Banks, picking up 140 yards (unofficially) and scoring three touchdowns. Fellow senior Cole Wilbanks returns to anchor an offense that returns just four starters.

The Vikings (6-5 in 2015) lost a couple of talented lineman and a star receiver from last year’s playoff team, but have seven returning starters on offense, including seniors Deon Ellison (RB), WR Markese Jackson (WR) and junior QB Austin Parker. Jackson averaged 100+ yards per game receiving last year, and Parker tallied 2,485 passing yards [and 214 rushing] with 24 total touchdowns. The East Hall defense also returns eight starters.

Habersham last played East Hall in 1985, falling 24-14. They also squared off in 1984, winning 21-7. Those are the only two meetings between the schools in history.

Friday Night Full Slate (Week 0)

Habersham Central vs East Hall
White County at Franklin County
Banks County vs Jackson County
Towns County at Hayesville (NC)

 

RELATED: Road closure during Raiders’ home football games