Today’s interviewee is Bowdon coach Richard Fendley, whose team rallied from a 19-0 deficit to beat Early County in the Class A Division II quarterfinals last week. Fendley became Bowdon’s coach in 2018, when the program had only 28 players. After a 1-9 finish, Bowdon has gone 37-11 and won three consecutive region titles, and it currently has 64 players on its varsity roster.

1. Down 19-0, what got your team back in the game, and how does that game compare to other exciting games you've been involved in? “As a coach, I have never had a team come back after trailing 19-0. I have had teams fight back to make it respectable but not come back and win. I would say two things helped our players come back from that big of a hole. First, mental toughness. Our kids have created a culture of being mentally tough. It is how they work out in the offseason, how hard they run in the summer and how they fight each Friday night. That kind of toughness is not a switch you turn on. It is something you breed into your culture. Second, is family. Being a small school, our players and coaches are very close. Our players trust the coaches, and the coaches trust the players. You have to have a genuine love for your team to play that hard for each other to overcome being down 19 points.”

2. What has been the reaction of your fans, school and community to that game and the season Bowdon is having? And how was the bus ride home? “Our fans at Bowdon are incredible. We have a true 12th man. They expect to win, and over the past few weeks I have been hearing from the older fans that it feels like the old dominant Bowdon teams out there on Friday nights. That's a good thing because back in the 1990s and early 2000s Bowdon played a lot of semifinal and state championship games. Our student section has been second to none. They have shown up loud and proud all year. When your student body is involved, that is a really special thing in high school or college football. Our bus ride home was long. I think three hours, but it was loud the first 45 minutes with the kids pumped about the way they won, and the last part they slept.”

3. For those who've not seen Bowdon play, what do you feel that you your team does that gives you a chance to win every Friday night? In particular, what do Robert McNeal and T.J. Harvison bring to the table? “Well, for those that haven’t seen Bowdon, there are several factors that make this team feel like they can win every Friday night. First, the players believe and trust that the coaches will put them in the best position to win. They will look you in the face and tell you they know their coaches can game plan. Second, is the toughness of our offensive line and defensive line. We have kids up front on both sides that will battle all night. Those kinds of blue-collar players are very important for success. Lastly are our two Division I players, QB Robert McNeal and RB T.J. Harvison. They are both great practice players and also high-IQ football players. That means they understand the game of football as well as understanding football situations. Both players are leaders. It is very important to a winning culture that your best players are some of your hardest workers on and off the field.”

4. What has the creation of Division II meant to schools like yours? “The creation of Class A D2 has both its pros and cons. One con is small regions, which cause more travel to find games. One positive is the fact that some of the bigger Class A schools that might double your enrollment are up a class, and it levels the playing field in the overall picture of playing for a state title. I think for Bowdon personally it has been good. We had to pick up some tough non-region games that prepared us for our playoff run.”

Today’s interviewee is Dutchtown coach Niketa Battle, whose team defeated Mays 40-34 in overtime in the Class 5A quarterfinals last week. The victory, won with the aid of a goal-line stand from the 1-yard line in overtime, put Dutchtown in the semifinals for the first time in the Henry County school’s 19-season history. Battle, whom Dutchtown hired this year, was facing his former team, which he led for six seasons.

1. What does making the semifinals mean for Dutchtown? “This is a very large accomplishment for the program. Getting to the quarterfinals and coming up short in previous seasons has been very discouraging for the football program. Just to get over that hump was very rewarding for the kids.” [Dutchtown had been 0-3 in previous quarterfinal games, with two of those losses coming when currant Alabama All-American Will Anderson was a Dutchtown all-state player.]

2. Mays had first-and-goal from the 1-yard line in overtime and you kept them out. What happened on each play of the goal-line stand? “The first play Mays lined up in double wing right and attempted to run stretch with Triston Morgan. We made penetration, and our linebackers Amarion Yarbough and D.J. Johnson stuffed the play in the backfield. Second down they lined up in the same formation to run a quarterback counter to the left with Saulamon Evans, and we did a great job of stringing the play out of bounds for a loss. Third down they ran toss right to outflank the defense with Triston Morgan. We made penetration, and D.J. Johnson stuffed it in the backfield. Fourth down they wanted to run a mesh concept with Jarquarian Wiggles and Clayton Coppage, and our linebackers did an excellent job running with their guys, and the backside cornerback Tishaun Brown did an excellent job of sinking into the throwing lane for the interception. That was big time.”

3. What was it like playing your former team? Did you speak with some of your players after the game? “It was a game. I didn’t know how I would feel until kickoff. Then the competitive coaching fell into place. After the game was over, I did have an opportunity to speak to some former coaches. However, I did not have an opportunity to speak to the former players. I have much respect for the fight in those players. They played a hard-fought game.”

4. You're one of a handful of semifinal teams that were unranked in preseason. When did you feel you had a chance to get this far? “After the Warner Robins game, we knew that was an indication that we could play with the best in 5A competition. If we continued to play like that week to week the success would follow.” [Dutchtown was GHSF Daily’s Team of the Week after the Warner Robins victory Sept. 16. That dropped Warner Robins to 1-3, but the Demons have won eight straight games and joined Dutchtown in the semifinals.]

Today’s interviewee is Oconee County coach Ben Hall, whose team defeated Carver of Columbus 14-6 last week in the Class 3A quarterfinals. Oconee County is the only semifinal team that has won three playoff road games this year. Only 11 teams in history have won four games away from home to reach a championship game. Hall was the offensive coordinator for one of those, Flowery Branch in 2008. His Warriors play at No. 1 Cedar Grove in the semifinals.

1. What made the difference in the Carver game? “Our players believed they could win the game. We played well on defense, and we were able to avoid turnovers and be patient on offense. Our punter, Bo Gaines, flipped the field at key times during the game.” [The Warriors have allowed only six first-half points total and 149, 259 and 123 total yards in their three playoff victories.]

2. You lost your opener to North Oconee, another semifinal team, and then to three other good teams, all by seven points or less. How has the team evolved? “We have developed throughout the season in several key areas. We entered the season with most of our experience on the defensive side of the ball. The defense has played well all season, which has allowed for the offense to develop. Playing really good opponents this season has helped that process.” [Twelve of Oconee County’s 13 opponents made the playoffs, and nine were ranked when the Warriors played them.]

3. What do you believe has helped you have that road success? “Our kids enjoy playing the game together regardless of the location. We have played very good teams on the road this year, our fans travel well, and our kids understand that we have to play well home or away to have a chance to win ball games.”

4. This the second school that you've taken to the semifinals, following Jefferson in 2016, and third if you count Flowery Branch as a coordinator. Are there some coaches or moments in your career that specifically helped shape your beliefs on what makes a winning team? “I have been very fortunate to have played and coached for some very successful coaches over the years, and I have definitely benefited from my experiences with each of them. T. McFerrin taught me that less is sometimes more, and that one of the keys to winning late in the season is avoiding burnout from players and coaches. We want our team to enjoy being here. Understanding that talent varies from season to season, working to create a positive environment is an ingredient that shouldn't be overlooked. As long as the players and coaches don't want it to be over, they will give all they have.”

Today’s interviewee is Mount Pisgah Christian coach Ryan Livesey, whose team defeated No. 6 Darlington 26-20 in the Class A Division I second round. Mount Pisgah, a private school in Johns Creek, won as a 24-point underdog to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2014. The Patriots are playing at Irwin County on Friday.

1. What did you do well that led to beating Darlington? “The big thing was that our defense played unbelievable. Our defensive coordinator, coach [Elijer] Martinez, has done a tremendous job this season. We’ve had guys in and out of the lineup, and with all the moving pieces he’s had to play with, he’s come up with a good game plan each week. Our goal was to make them do something they’re not as comfortable doing. They had a giant line of scrimmage and a great back, and we knew they wanted to run the football, and if we could get them out of that a little bit, we felt it gave us a chance. Offensively, they did a good job in the first half mixing up coverages and giving us looks that we were not prepared for. In the second half, we made some adjustments and took advantage of some things they were doing. We’re not a big-strike offense, but Makael Carter had an unbelievable game. One of the dangers of going man on man is if you can make one man miss, you’ve got a chance. He got away from them several times.” [Carter had eight receptions for 266 yards and three touchdowns.]

2. Your quarterback, Jack Cendoya, has thrown for 3,343 yards and rushed for 743. Carter has 1,410 receiving yards. What makes your QB-WR combo so strong? “We have another wide receiver who’s just under 1,000 yards, Tyler Hunnicutt. Jack, Makael and Tyler have been playing together since elementary school. A lot of these seniors were pressed into action as ninth-graders because of injury. Every year they’ve gotten a little better. Makael has got speed, hands and toughness, and if you focus on him, Tyler has the same combination. Jack, on any given play, he gives us a chance. He's a great runner, but when he’s scrambling, he’s usually looking to throw. If somebody is coming off his man to get him, that usually leaves somebody open, and Jack has done a great job locating those guys.”

3. How do you feel about the public-private “reunion” this season, with Class A public and private schools playing for the same championships again? “I was coaching back when public and private were together [before 2012]. It was the same thing. You had majority-public-school regions and majority private-school regions, and then you saw these different teams in the playoffs. It’s great for public- and private-school kids to travel around the state and see different venues and places and environments. I’m excited that everyone is back together. The GHSA gets grief no matter what they do, but the system they’ve set up is probably the most equitable. This is my first time as a coach playing Irwin County. They’re a program that’s consistently at the top in the state. We’re excited to go down there.” [Mount Pisgah’s region comprises four private schools, and the Patriots’ only public-school opponent has been Mount Zion of Carroll County in September.]

4. What’s your impression of Irwin County after watching film? “Athletic is an understatement. They’ve got speed everywhere on the field. They’ve got multiple guys that can take it to house on any given play. It’s one of the things that a number of the private schools will run into because of the public-private [breakup] is they haven’t seen South Georgia speed. There are some fast guys in North Georgia, but not like South Georgia. I have to stress that to my team. We’re going to see speed at every position. They may not have the size that Darlington has, but they will be faster and stronger. Obviously we’re the outsider and the underdog. When you look at it on paper, that’s how it should be, but we wouldn’t be in the final eight if we were not a good football team, too.”

Today’s interviewee is Walton coach Daniel Brunner, whose team defeated No. 1 Buford 42-35 in the Class 7A second round last week. Walton is a victory from reaching the semifinals for the second consecutive season. The Raiders are 52-21 in Brunner’s six seasons.

1. What did you team do that was the difference in the game? What was the game plan, and what were the key moments? “The game plan was simple – do what we do. Play to win! Be aggressive! Be confident! Put the ball down and ball out! There were too many key moments from our first fourth-down stop on their first possession to our fourth-down conversion that resulted in a touchdown late in the game to narrow it down to what allowed us to win the game. Our guys played with outstanding effort and had great preparation throughout the week, which allowed us to win the game. We have great coaches and great players that put a coordinated effort and showed how complimentary football wins games.”

2. You mentioned one key play – fourth-and-six at Buford's 43 midway in the fourth quarter, leading 35-28. Can you talk about the decision to go for it, how that came about, the play call and how it played out? “There was no doubt we were going for it. They had no timeouts left, and we knew we could put ourselves into position to control the back end of the game if we could convert. I trust my guys to find a way, and they did.” [Jeremy Hecklinski hit Ayden Jackson for a 43-yard TD pass and 42-28 lead.]

3. You've played like one of Class 7A's best teams all season – except for once vs. North Cobb. How do you explain that anomaly, and how did that game shape your season? “I did not do a good enough job having us prepared to win that game. Plain and simple. We had way too many mistakes. Mental errors, missed assignments, penalties, drops, etc. We were not ready for that moment, and we are working to make sure we are ready this Friday.”

4. You’ve got to get refocused for another good team. What's the scouting report on Carrollton? “They are 12-0 for a reason. They find ways to win games. They are very well-coached and are very talented. They have a ton of young talent, but they have not played like a young team all year. We will have our hands full but are ready for the challenge.”

Today’s interviewee is Savannah Christian coach Baker Woodward, whose team defeated No. 5 Peach County 23-7 in the Class 3A second round. Savannah Christian finished 5-6 last season in Class A and has been unranked this season despite an 11-1 record. Peach County was the first top-10 opponent outside of Class A that the Raiders have ever beaten. Woodward has been Savannah Christian’s coach for five seasons. His record is 45-15 with two region titles.

1. What did you do well Friday that allowed your team to come out on top? “We knew Peach County had a high-powered offense with a really good running back, so we knew we would have to stop their running game and force them to pass. Coach Robert Walsh, our defensive coordinator, along with our defensive staff [Keith Brooking and Ray Orio] came up with a great plan on defense, and our defense executed very well. One of the key players on defense was Kenry Wall with several tackles, a pass breakup and a key interception. Also, our special teams coordinator, William Bell, had been telling the guys all week that we would have to have a big play on special teams, and that was exactly what happened at the beginning of the second half when Jamari McIvory ran back the kickoff for a 90-yard touchdown. Lastly, we wanted to keep Peach County's offense off the field by controlling the ball on offense. We put the game in our offensive line's hands [Jep Hudspeth, Cole Burnsed, Jackson Mercer, Noah Lewis, Tyson Gross and Akeem Lane] along with running back Zo Smalls. We also had key receptions from David Bucey and Logan Brooking from our senior quarterback Paulus Zittrauer. Our offense racked up around 350 yards and zero turnovers.”

2. You were 5-6 last year in Class A. You’re in the quarterfinals in Class 3A. How did your team go from that to this? “Last year we were a young team with only six seniors, and many of the games we lost were by one score or less. Our opponents were a little more experienced than us, and it showed in the close games. We were very close to being an eight- or nine-win team, but to be honest I believe we lost a little accountability. From a coaching standpoint and a player leadership standpoint, we did not hold our players as accountable as we should’ve, and it showed by not winning the close games that we should have won. This year we have focused on being a family by holding each other accountable. We have used the verse Proverbs 17:17: ‘A friend loves at all times, but a brother is born for adversity.’ Our coaches have always tried their best to hold players accountable, but the really great teams have players holding each other accountable. That is what this Raider Family is doing. We are holding everyone accountable and demanding their absolute best. They are playing for one another, and they want to keep playing for one another. I truly believe this is the biggest reason for our success.”

3. How would you describe your team to those who haven’t seen you play? “I hope when people see our team, they see a team that attacks with purpose. It comes from Colossians 3:23: ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord and not human masters.’ We break it down on ‘attack’ every day, and we want to be deliberate and intentional about what we do. I believe our coaches and players focus on doing everything in their power to do their very best, and that is all we can ask for. Lastly, we hope that attacking with purpose shows not only in the way we play football but also when our boys graduate, that they take that philosophy with them not just for the four years that they are here, not just for the next 40, but for eternity.”

4. Your next opponent is Sandy Creek. Have you looked at them enough to know what you’re up against? “I didn't have to look at the film long to see that we will be up against a huge challenge in Sandy Creek. They will be by far the best team we have played all season. They are fast and physical on defense running multiple fronts and various coverages. Their offense is very explosive, and as the young kids say, their offense is a problem especially their quarterback. We will have to play our best game in order to advance to the final four.”

Today’s interviewee is Jasper Jewell, the athletic director for Atlanta Public Schools. Seven of 10 APS football-playing schools made the playoffs this season, and four are at home in the second round. That’s the most games that APS has hosted in the second round since the GHSA went to 32-team playoff draws in 1996. Jewell also is on the Georgia High School Association’s executive committee and board of trustees.

1. You’ve got four home playoff games this week. What does this mean for APS football? “This is tremendous for all four of our communities – Carver, North Atlanta, South Atlanta and Mays. This is extremely significant for North Atlanta as it is the first time they have advanced to the second round of the state football playoffs in school history. I was at the Lovejoy-North Atlanta game. That community is on fire right now. Lastly, we all know that with football being a fall sport, having successful football programs will shape and mold the entire culture for the rest of the season. I could not be more proud of those four programs.”

2. Looking at this season as a fan and not just an athletic director, what are some of the story lines about APS football that you've found most interesting? “As I looked around the district this year, one would have expected this to be a year of rebuild with the exception of South Atlanta, which returned 19 starters from a group that advanced to the state quarterfinals last season. Yet our coaches and players embraced the challenge, worked extremely hard in the offseason, and here we are in the second round. We had seven total teams to make the playoffs this year [including Jackson, Douglass and Washington], with an additional two teams with winning records for the first time in several years. Midtown played non-region and finished 6-4 [after canceling its varsity season in 2021]. Therrell finished 6-4 and had a winning record for the first time in 20-plus years. The excitement is insane.”

3. Most APS head coaches are in their third season or less, and most have made quick progress. When hiring coaches, people talk about getting the right “fit.” What is the right fit generally with APS schools? “Getting the right fit in APS means you are much more than a coach by way of X’s and O’s. You are father figures, counselors, mentors, big brothers, you name it. This particular group of coaches truly cares about not only their programs but their communities, which speaks volumes about them and their character. Darren Myles of Carver and Eric Williams of Maynard Jackson are the most-tenured head football coaches in the district, and they truly lead by example. Perhaps one of the most intriguing hires was Marquis Slaton at Mays High. While he is no stranger to the coaching ranks, he takes over a Mays program and in his first season finishes strong to land a No. 2 seed in the playoffs and had an impressive win last week. Simply put, all of the head football coaches that we have hired sprinkled in with a few veterans are doing an amazing job.”

4. This season is the first following a significant reclassification that broke up the public/private split in Class A and applied a stronger multiplier on out-of-zone students. How would you grade the impact that it had this season in football, and are there ways that the GHSA should consider tweaking it for the next reclass? “I think it’s still a bit early to grade the success or failure of reclassification. I do believe there is more balance in each classification; however, no true assessment can be taken until after the 2022-2023 school year. Dr. [Robin] Hines and his group [at the GHSA] have done an amazing job with reclassification, and I am excited to see how the rest of the year plays out. I also appreciate my senior leadership in APS for having the faith and confidence in allowing me to be a part of the reclassification process.”

Today’s interviewee is Robert Toombs Academy coach Jacob Lord, whose team is 6-4 after 0-9 and 2-9 finishes. The Crusaders rank No. 1 among GIAA schools in GHSF Daily’s Improvement Tracker. Robert Toombs is playing Fullington Academy this week in the Class A semifinals.

1. What would you want people to know about Robert Toombs Academy as a school and football program? “Robert Toombs is a private school with grades K3-12th located in Lyons, roughly in the middle of Macon and Savannah just off I-16. The public schools that service our area are Toombs County and Vidalia. We play under the Georgia Independent Athletic Association title. Our school has just under 300 total students. We have a rich history of athletic success in all sports and have won five state championships through the years in football.”

2. What have you and your staff done to get the team from 0-9 two seasons ago to where it is now? “Great assistant coaches and great players make us all look good. The Lord has placed us as leaders of young people in this community to show them Christ before anything else, and I take that seriously. My staff works each day to change this community on an eternal level first, and we are blessed enough to coach some ball along the way. Our staff consists of five coaches, with three here since 2020. The offensive coordinator, Matthew Meeks, is an offensive mind that runs the same thing in our middle school program as we do at the high school level. He does a great job with his offensive system and has produced a quarterback, T.J. Stanley, that has thrown for 1,601 yards and rushed for 561, a receiving corps that has accounted for 21 touchdowns, with senior Jashaun Powell accounting for 1,019 and 14 touchdowns, and a stable of four 500-yard rushers with freshman Justin Powell leading the way with 839. Our o-line is a big factor in the production we have had. We have also added a new strength coach, Glen Birkheimer. He has drastically increased the strength of our kids, as well as their range of motion. Injury prevention is a focus for a team that consists of 25 players. When my staff and I got here, the program had 13 players. That number has grown each year, and that's a testament to the relationship our coaches build with the kids.”

3. What is your approach to coaching, your philosophy? “We tell our kids all the time that winning happens when football is not the focus. We have to foster a deeper relationship with our teammates and love them on a deeper level than just how they can benefit me. And senior Andrew Tuck, a role guy for us and a key defensive player, understands that. He has endured a lot the past couple of years with his mom being diagnosed with a brain cancer and the loss of two grandparents. That kid hasn't missed a single practice or a single summer workout because he loves his teammates. He is our team captain and will be a kid I'll never forget as a coach. Tough! No chance I'm being asked to write this without that kid, because our team is accomplishing what it is because of him, not me. Our program is starting to understand that high levels of success can only be attained when you look at the micro, not the macro. Doing the little things right is how us simple-minded coaches put it. Our kids are tough, and not just football tough but in real life. And when you get a group of kids like that, you got a shot.”

4. What would you want people to know about GIAA? “The GIAA is a very competitive league with high-caliber athletes consisting of 56 11-man football teams. Not just in the game of football but when you look across the spectrum of athletics you have the No. 1 NBA Draft pick, Anthony Edwards; the tight end for the Browns, Harrison Bryant; Alabama national champion and now GIAA assistant coach at Stratford Academy, Giles Amos; multiple Olympic athletes and Major League Baseball players all having come from this league, just to name a few. So yeah, each Friday you play against some good talent. I have been involved in this association for six years now as a coach, and in my short time, I’ve seen a drastic change in the amount of cross-over play with both private and public schools. That's been something I have enjoyed seeing; both associations opening the gateway for play between the two different association members. Also, if you were to take a deep look into the coaches in the GIAA, I'm sure you'll be surprised at the number of former or retired GHSA coaches walking the sidelines on Friday nights at those schools. Heck, I'm playing a couple this Friday night in the playoffs. The coaching in this league is phenomenal, and you'd better know your stuff if you want to give your kids a shot each week.”

Today’s interviewee is Lanier County coach Kurt Williams, whose team defeated Miller County 14-13 last week. That was the Bulldogs’ first playoff victory since starting football in 1997. Lanier County was 1-9 in each of the four seasons before hiring Williams and 0-10 in Williams’ first season, but his teams have since gone 3-7, 3-6, 3-7 and now 6-5. Lanier County is between Lowndes and Clinch counties near the Florida border. Williams grew up nearby in Berrien County.

1. What happened in the game? How did it play out? “Our game with Miller was an old-fashioned defensive struggle, classic playoff game. The team stats were almost identical in every category but turnovers, which was the difference in the game. Our defense forced a turnover every time we needed one. We intercepted a ball [junior Trevon Small] and returned it to the 2-yard line to punch it in [touchdown by Jamir Glenn] to go up 14-7 with five minutes left. Miller responded and drove it down to score with three minutes left and elected to go for two, which we were able to stop a half foot short. They pinned us deep on the ensuing kickoff, and we were unable to convert a first down to run the clock out, so we had to ask our defense to go back out there and win the game for us with Miller in excellent field position. They got down to around our 20-yard line, and a ball got deflected up in the air and we were able to secure another interception [by B.J. Jones, his fifth of the season] to seal the game.”

2. What does the victory mean to the team and the school? “It was huge. We had a goal of getting in the playoffs at the beginning of the year. We have lost some close games over the past couple of years that would have got us close to getting in, so for us to win such a close one to get our first-ever playoff victory in school history just made it even sweeter. Our team, school and community are excited about being in a spot we have never been before. Our school has really tried to emphasize school spirit this year for all sports, and I'm hoping this just gives our school body another reason to support one another.”

3. When you got the job, there was no tradition. Why did you take it on, and what are the things that you and your staff did that have made the most difference? “I always wanted to be a head coach. I knew as a young coach that I would more than likely have to take a job at a school that hadn't had much success and build it up. My wife and I really prayed about the situation here in Lakeland. I knew before even interviewing and meeting the great people I work with now that God wanted me to be here. I had talked to a few coaches that thought it could be an underrated job because there were athletes here as well. They had a good group coming up from the feeder program, and if given enough time could be a really good group. Those kids are now currently freshmen and sophomores, and several are currently starting for us this year.

“The biggest thing that my staff and I have done is consistency. Our first year we didn't win a game on the varsity or middle-school level, but we believed in what we were doing. I've been blessed to hire some great coaches that, for the majority of the staff, have been with me since year one or two. We're still practicing, lifting and doing a lot of the same stuff we were doing when we were everybody's stat game five years ago. I'm so thankful for a great place to give us time to build a program in a day and age when people want immediate success.”

4. What is Lanier County like, both the school and the county? “Our school is a great place to work. We have a great administration and teachers that support our kids in the classroom and on the field. Mrs. Reada Hamm, our principal, and coach Scott Ray, our athletic director who hired me, have given me the best support a coach can ask for.

“Lanier County is a very small county in rural south Georgia where agriculture leads the way in our economy. Everybody knows everybody here, but one thing is for sure, when there is a ball game going on regardless of the sport, our county is going to show up and support our kids to the fullest. We have each other's back. My family and I love this community. They have taken us in since day one and it has become our home.”

Today’s interviewee is North Atlanta coach Jamie Aull, whose team defeated Lovejoy 30-17 last week in the Class 6A playoffs. It was North Atlanta’s first playoff victory in its 32-season history. The team’s eighth victory is a school record. Aull, in his third season, also has been a head coach at Our Lady of Mercy and Mount Zion of Jonesboro.

1. How did you win the game? What was the difference? “Our staff put together a great plan, and our players did a tremendous job during the week being locked in and preparing. Our kids then came out and executed in the first half and built a lead. Lovejoy made some adjustments at half that allowed them to get some momentum, but our kids kept believing and playing, and we made enough plays in the second half to hold on and win.” [North Atlanta took a 23-0 lead in the second quarter. Lorenza Lennon passed for 153 yards and rushed for 84. Jamie O’Kelley had 10 receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown.]

2. What does the victory mean to your program, school, team and players? “It was a huge win for our kids, school and community. Obviously this is new territory for us to be practicing this late in November, but the message remains the same. Do whatever it takes to have film and practice next Monday.”

3. This victory shines a light on your team. What would you want people to know about it? “We have a hard-working group of players that are going to play hard for 48 minutes regardless of opponent or circumstance. As a coach, you can’t ask for anything more.”

4. Your teams have steadily gotten better with each season you’ve been there. What have you and your staff done that’s made the most difference? “We have worked hard to continue to establish a culture built on hard work. Buy-in to our offseason strength-and-conditioning program has been the key to this shift. It began in 2018 when I came in as offensive coordinator, and we have tried to build on it each year.”

Today’s interviewee is Cass coach Steve Gates, whose team defeated fourth-ranked Jefferson 27-17 in the Class 5A first round Saturday. The victory was the first for Cass in the postseason since 1983. Cass’s record is 16-16 in three seasons under Gates. It was 5-25 in the three prior seasons.

1. How did you win that game? “Our coaches implemented a game plan last Sunday, and we worked on it throughout the week, and the kids executed it flawlessly. Jefferson was, in our opinion, so well-coached, almost to a fault. It’s a good thing to be well-coached, but it’s also something that can be predictable. They’d given up 35 points in their last eight games. If I was them, I wouldn’t change anything either because it worked. They gave us a lot of stuff underneath. They don’t like to get beat, but we cracked the code on the second play of the game on a 67-yard bomb to Sacovie White [a junior wide receiver committed to Georgia], but overall, we threw a ton of stuff underneath. Then obviously, we had to know where [Jefferson star linebacker] Sammy Brown was the entire game. If anybody wants to know what a five-star looks like, Google Sammy Brown. He’s an absolute monster. We knew in certain formations where they’d put him. We didn’t necessarily run away from him, but we knew where he was. We had great game plan on offense and defense and stuck to it. Even when we got up 20-0, we kept throwing the football, and it was a fun night.”

2. Sacovie had a good game and a big catch, as you mentioned. What can you tell us about him that not only high school football fans would want to know but also Georgia fans who will be seeing him in a couple of years? “Sacovie is a very unique kid. He’s very confident but not cocky or arrogant, if that makes sense. He feels he’s better than you, and he’ll tell you that, but he also shows you that. That’s just Sacovie. Each week when he watches film, he’ll tell me who their best player is, and that’s who he wants to line up across from him. Fortunately for us, nine times out of 10, he’s going to win that battle.”

As a college prospect: “He’s 5-9, and he’s not 5-10. My kids know that I don’t fib, I don’t lie, I don’t fudge. Coaches would reach out to me to watch his film. They would be excited, and they ask for his real height. For some, that was the end of the conversation. It wasn't for Coach [Kirby] Smart. Coach Smart physically saw him play football this summer and offered him on the spot. He didn’t bat an eye on the height. So it doesn’t surprise me one bit that he’s going to Georgia. That’s Coach Smart’s M.O. on certain kinds of players, like Ladd McConkey. There’s not many 5-9 kids that can do what Sacovie does. The college scene will see him in 18 months. He’ll be returning punts day one at Georgia. You can put that down.”

3. Your region swept in the first round. What was your reaction to that? “I was not shocked at all. Having been in some very difficult regions before at Kell [as an assistant coach], there was Kell, Rome and Carrollton, so it’s nothing new to me personally. Then I came to Cass two years ago and got Calhoun, Cartersville and Blessed Trinity and I’m thinking good lord, this is difficult as well. Then realignment comes out this year, and we lost Blessed Trinity but pick up Dalton, so we’re back to where we were. And there’s Hiram. They beat our region champion [in the regular season]. I truly believe we have one of, if not the, toughest regions in the state, and it showed in round one.”

4. Changing the historic order of things in northwest Georgia with Cartersville, Calhoun and other top programs isn't easy. What's been the toughest thing, and what does this victory do toward that goal? “This victory is huge for the program. There’s all the records that go with it, the first time since 1983 that we’ve won a playoff game, so there’s a lot of accolades that go with that win, but in the big picture, we’re just still working toward the goal of becoming an elite program year in and year out. The difference in a Calhoun and a Cartersville and a Cass is consistency. This year is the first time in school history that Cass had made the state playoffs in back-to-back years. That’s never happened in 71 years. To me, that’s the start of consistency. And we’re still young. At any point in time, we’ve got five or six starting freshmen and five or six starting sophomores. We’re going to get 17 or 18 starters back. Both my tackles are 14-years-old. We’re doing this and still being extremely young. My O-line coach said it best. 'It's always been, oh good, we get to play Cass this week. I think the time is changing to where people are now saying, oh heck, we got to go play Cass this week.' That means we’re making a name for ourselves.”

Today’s interviewee is Jon Nelson, a high school sports correspondent and show host at Georgia Public Broadcasting for more than 20 years. He’s co-host with Hannah Goodin of the “Football Fridays in Georgia” podcast and part of the coverage team for GPB Sports’ game of the week, which tonight is Blessed Trinity vs. North Forsyth.

1. Why did you pick Blessed Trinity-North Forsyth as your game of the week, and what are you looking forward to in that game? “In our team analysis, GPB thought the BT-North Forsyth game was the most evenly matched and competitive game in Round One of the playoffs. As a side note, everyone in the North Forsyth community is incredibly excited to have us there for the first time on our air in the history of “Football Fridays in Georgia.” We're really looking forward to being on Coal Mountain.”

2. What has been the most interesting story line or trend of the 2022 season entering the playoffs? “Wow. I think it's the variety of what we're seeing. With reclassification, we have some new teams that are making statements in the regular season. Can they keep it up in the postseason? We also have three teams in Georgia high school football ranked in the top 25 nationally – Buford, Mill Creek and Hughes – and I think it speaks well of where the state stands in the discussion. Can those teams finish what they started with all the expectations and eyes on them?”

3. Who do you have to win it in each class? “The team that scores the most points in the last game of the year! As I always say: I love all of my children equally! I think, looking at my brackets as we talk, there's a handful of teams in each class that, if the bracket works their way, have a chance at a title. And I also think that in the lower classifications, you'll have really competitive run-ins for a lot of talented teams.”

4. GPB is broadcasting loads of flag football games this season on Thursday. Why, and what are your impressions of the games you've watched this year? “I love it. Ever since Ernie Yarbrough, assistant executive director at the GHSA, brought this idea to the table as a sport he wanted to have officially sanctioned, we have seen flag football grow from just under 20 metro Atlanta-area schools to over 200, and it's still growing. When we started showing the title games as a part of championship weekend, we seriously had comments on our social media platforms telling us that ‘the sport was the guilty pleasure I didn't know I had ’til I started watching it.’ And to see something like flag grow as exponentially as it has, complete with scholarships awarded when games were over, it's been really cool. GPB understood the importance of showing these games from the beginning as an integral part of celebrating our student-athletes. The 2021 state championship replays are some of the most popular downloads on our YouTube channel, and the athleticism is off the charts.”

Today’s interviewee is Holy Innocents’ coach Todd Winter, whose team won Region 6-4A and will play Hampton on Friday in the first round. The computer Maxwell Ratings picked Holy Innocents’ to finish in third place and gave the Atlanta private school a 15.9% chance to win the region. Winter is in his sixth season as the Golden Bears’ coach.

1. What made winning this region such an accomplishment, and how did your team pull it off? “The past five years, our classification was Single A Private. This past year we moved up three classifications to 4A and we were unsure of how much of an adjustment this transition would be for our program. We went from primarily competing against schools of similar size to facing schools with four times our high school enrollment on a weekly basis. This region title is a testimony to the hard work our players and coaches have put forth as well as the administrative and community support to the program. Our program's culture has been the key to our success on the field this year and in the past few seasons. Our players believe and play for one another. We are built on being servant leaders.”

2. What went into your school's decision to play in Class 4A? And what do you think of the GHSA's way of classifying? “During the 2020 reclassification cycle, we asked to be moved to 2A and were denied. So this past cycle we asked to move to 4A before the GHSA imposed the new multiplier rule that moved us to 4A. Our primary reason for wanting to move up was the opportunity to play Westminster, Pace and Lovett. All three schools are close in proximity and natural rivalry games for us. I have no issue with the GHSA's classification procedures and the way they reclassified this past cycle. My only wish is that we would have been placed in a region with Westminster, Pace and Lovett.” [The GHSA put Holy Innocents’ and Westminster in a region with three DeKalb County schools and one Fulton school. Lovett and Pace Academy are in Region 5 with schools from Clayton and Henry counties.]

3. Your team appears to have played its best games the past two weeks. You went from narrowly beating two non-playoff teams [Miller Grove, Southwest DeKalb] to winning comfortably against two playoff teams [Stephenson, Hapeville Charter]. What explains that? “Westminster was very similar to the teams we had played in Single A Private competition, while Miller Grove and Southwest Dekalb were much different. Miller Grove and SWD were much bigger, faster and more physical than teams we played in Single A and in our non-region schedule. We struggled in those two games adjusting to their size, overall team speed and physicality. I believe adjusting to those factors and gaining confidence led to our team improving in the last two games.”

4. What should fans know about your team? The style of play, identity, etc.? “Our style of play is an anomaly compared to most teams. We are an under-center triple-option attack on offense that averages 4.7 pass attempts per game. We want to run the ball, slow the game down and keep our defense off the field. In the Miller Grove game, we did not attempt a pass. On defense, we are multiple and aggressive. Our defense has created 29 takeaways this season. In special teams, we want to be sound and create opportunities for our offense and defense to be successful.”

Today’s interviewee is Harlem coach Mark Boiter, whose team defeated Morgan County 27-13 last week in a game that decided the Region 4-3A championship. It is Harlem’s first region title since 1974. Boiter is a Harlem alumnus who has worked at his alma mater for his entire 17-year coaching career, the past three as head coach.

1. It’s the school’s first region title since 1974. You’re an alumnus. What does this accomplishment mean to you, this team and your school? “It was a special moment for sure. I’m an alumnus of Harlem. As a player and coach, I’ve been a part of this program for 20 years. We have two other coaches on our staff who are also alumni. Chris Waters has been coaching here for 20 years, and Lonnie Morris has been coaching here for 42 years. Our players, coaches, boosters, school and community have put in a tremendous amount of work to make this possible.”

2. You’ve had some pretty good teams the past 10 years or so. What separates this one? You’re not giving up many points, I notice that. “Defense has been the difference. We have had some truly talented teams, and we’ve been able to score points for the past several years, but our defensive coordinator Brian Usry and our defensive staff have done an incredible job this year of putting an emphasis and edge on that side of the ball. Our players on defense have taken great pride in what they do week in and week out.”

3. When you got the job in 2020, was it a goal to become head coach? What’s the story of your getting the job? “My entire coaching career has been at Harlem High. I coached for Jimmie Lewis for nine years. When he retired from football, I applied for the head coach job. I didn’t get it, and that was probably the best thing for me. Todd Booker got the job, and I stayed on and coached under him for the next five years. I had the privilege to coach for two outstanding mentors who had different styles but the same core values. Their tutelage meant the world to me. When Coach Booker stepped down, I felt I was more prepared to do the job, so I applied again. I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity in 2020. I’ve endured some growing pains over the last three years, but I do my best to continue to learn and grow as a coach, a servant and a leader as much as possible.”

4. What have you and the staff done that’s made the most difference in taking the program to the next level? “All credit to our players. Their work and their commitment have been outstanding. Our staff works incredibly hard to put our guys in the best position possible so that they can make plays, but it’s been the work and commitment of our players that has been the difference. We talk to them often about leaving a legacy for future players, and they have done that. They understand that there is more to be accomplished this season as well. We still have goals yet to be achieved.”

Today’s interviewee is Brunswick coach Garrett Grady, whose team defeated Effingham County 30-27 last week in a game that decided the Region 2-6A championship. Grady had been on Brunswick’s staff for five seasons until promoted to head coach this year. Brunswick (10-0) will play 10th-ranked Houston County in the first round Friday.

1. Tell us about last Friday’s game. What made the difference? What were some of the memorable things about it? “Glynn County Stadium was packed out, and the atmosphere was electric. Both teams played extremely hard and made big plays throughout the game. I have nothing but respect for coach John Ford, his staff and his team. It was a heck of a game. Our wide receiver Terry Mitchell made some great plays throughout this whole game on offense and on special teams. He had 10 catches for 170 yards receiving and two touchdowns. One of those TDs was a great punt return. Our defense played extremely hard and kept battling. Special teams played a key role as well with the big punt return and a field goal. Our offense made plays when we needed to and converted some key downs to sustain drives. It was a total team win. Our kids earned every bit of that game and championship.”

2. This is your first season as a head coach. What’s that experience been like? Are there things that you didn’t expect that you’ve learned? “It has been such a learning experience for me. There are things that I thought I handled as an assistant very well, and there are things that I never expected would come up that I have encountered. It has been a positive experience for me to grow professionally and allowed me to build trust in my assistant coaches to coach/mentor our players. I am big on relationships, Relationships are currency. The way you treat people goes a long way, and we want to do right by our players in every aspect.

“One thing that I think we have done an extremely good job of at Brunswick High is with our community outreach. We wanted our team and our players to be visible in the community and become great role models for our young fans that come out to support our games every Friday night. We have gone to elementary schools and opened car doors and been on the bus loops in the mornings greeting the students. We have attended numerous PBIS pep rallies, and we have read books to students. These are just a few ways we wanted to give back to the community of Brunswick and show our appreciation for their support during the season.”

3. Brunswick is 10-0 for the second straight season. How is this team different from last year? Is it the same team but a year older, or was there much rebuilding? “This team has a lot of returning starters on offense, defense and special teams, but there are some key roles that are different. Our quarterback, J.R. Elkins, is in his first year as the starter, along with a few new running backs as well [Jamarious Towns, William Heck and Ivan Johnson]. We had to replace our two inside linebackers from a year ago and a few guys in the secondary on defense. Our culture for our program is built on the motto ‘All About The Family.’ We truly have a family atmosphere around our team and coaching staff. Our guys play for each other and give it their all because they care for one another.”

4. You’ve got a tough draw in the first round [Houston County]. What concerns you about them? “I think they may be the best No. 4 seed I have ever seen before. Coach Jeremy Edwards and his staff have a very explosive team. Coach Edwards has done a great job in his first season as a head coach. They play in one of the toughest regions in the state of Georgia in all classifications. They have an unbelievable quarterback [A.J. Hill] that can make any throw on the field, talented running backs that run behind a big offensive line and some wide receivers that can blow the top off of coverages. Defensively they are very talented as well. The defensive line is tough and plays hard, and their linebackers fly around to the football, with a secondary that plays well in pass coverage and gets involved in run support. They have played very well against some of the top 10 teams in the 6A – Thomas County Central, Northside [of Warner Robins], Lee County, and those are region games.”

Today’s interviewee is LaGrange coach Matt Napier, whose team defeated fourth-ranked and previously unbeaten Troup 38-34 last week in a must-win rivalry game for the Grangers to get into the playoffs out of Region 4-4A. Napier became a head coach for the first time in 2020. LaGrange is 25-9 in three seasons under Napier after going 4-26 over the previous three seasons. Napier’s younger brother, Kurt, became a head coach this season at Murray County and got his first victory Friday in a rebuilding program. His older brother, Billy, is Florida’s head coach and got a good win Saturday at Texas A&M. They are sons of Bill Napier, a longtime football coach in northwest Georgia who passed away in 2017 after a long battle with ALS.

1. What are the biggest takeaways for you from the Troup victory? “It was a big win for our program. These young men have shown a tremendous amount of commitment, resiliency and buy-in to the program that our staff brought in from day one. Any time you win a rivalry game, it helps bring validation to the process and work that you’ve had them committed to over the last several years. The win was also big for our community. Granger pride is something that our people put a tremendous amount of emphasis on, so restoring that pride in our program now and the direction we are headed in is critical for our future as we continue to build LaGrange back into a consistent winner. It takes a tremendous amount of focus, attention to detail and preparation to win big games, and we felt like our guys really focused on those things throughout the week leading up to the game. We also won the turnover battle, and in big games that’s critical. Can’t say enough about our kids’ effort and toughness, both physical and mental, throughout the game.”

2. What was the mindset of the team, or the message of coaches, after losing two tough back-to-back games to Whitewater and Starr’s Mill in midseason that put your backs to the wall? What allowed you to rally and get in the playoffs? “We knew we had a good team, and the kids never wavered during those two close losses. We say it all the time when we talk about ‘responding to adversity,’ that we have to keep our composure and stay the course when things don’t go your way. Our staff and players got an opportunity to show how we respond when that moment came for us. Our region has been extremely tough this year. We knew it would be when we saw the teams in the offseason, so we knew that we would have some really tough battles against these teams. We grew and learned from those games to help us be put in the position we are now. We’ve had a 1-0 mindset every week coming off the Whitewater game. and we knew we had to win out to make it to the playoffs. We’ve had a playoff mentality from that game on, and we were able to find a way to win in several big games to finish the regular season.”

3. You’ve got a tough draw for a No. 2 seed – Burke County. Have you had time to scout them? What are your thoughts about them and having to play such a good team to open the playoffs? “Absolutely tough draw getting those guys in the first round. Coach [Eric] Parker has done a great job there for several years, and he has another talented, well-coached team that we have to face Saturday. We’ve watched them and know that they have been battle-tested as well. They have a tough region with very good competition week in and week out, so we know they will be coming in with a great team. I told the team Friday night the importance of being able to move on. We wanted to celebrate this win, but I also told them about the tradition of LaGrange High football. We are not even close to content with a win over our rival. The goal and expectation here is to compete for a state championship and get ready for a run in the playoffs. That starts with a very good Burke County team. I know our team and what they’ve been through in the past, so we fully expect our team to be able to move forward really quickly.”

4. Your dad raised a family of good coaches, leaving a great football legacy. Lots of things exciting things have happened with you and your brothers professionally since he passed away. What kind of coaches’ father was he? What would he make of all that his sons have so recently accomplished? “I can’t begin to explain the kind of impact my father and mother had on all of us. My dad set the example on how to do things for our family. His love for his players, his integrity and his desire to compete were some of the things that inspired all of us to decide to follow his footsteps into a coaching career. I can’t help but think about him in Heaven looking down on all of us and being extremely happy. Happy about us not only as coaches, but hopefully as great fathers, husbands and men of God.”

Today’s interviewee is Jeff Hood, the play-by-play announcer for Bostwick radio station WMOQ 92.3 FM, which broadcasts a game each week from Clarke, Morgan, Oconee or Walton County. Hood also is a high school football official. He’ll be announcing tonight’s game between Harlem and Morgan County in Madison. It will decide the Region 4-3A championship. Harlem would claim its first region title since 1974 with a victory, but Morgan County is a three-point favorite, according to the computer Maxwell Ratings.

1. Why did the station pick the Harlem-Morgan County game, and what are you looking forward to seeing? “We’ve had this Region 4-3A showdown circled on our calendar for several weeks with the belief these two teams match up well. Harlem has the stingiest defense in Class 3A, yielding just 10.4 points per game. Morgan County’s high-flying offense [39.4 points per game] is, arguably, the best in school history. Second-year Morgan County coach Clint Jenkins has a strong playoff pedigree. He led Dacula to two region titles and semifinal appearances in three seasons at the helm of the Falcons before taking the Morgan County job in 2021.”

2. Unlike most Georgia play-by-play broadcasters, you're not the voice of any one team. What is your radio station's strategy in covering different schools instead of just one? “Because we don’t cover a single team, we choose the game we feel will be the most captivating to our listeners each week. For instance, our last two games were one-point thrillers. Clarke Central edged Eastside in overtime, and the following Friday night Stephens County took the lead for the first time with 35 seconds remaining to defeat Oconee County. We expect this trend to continue tonight at historic Bill Corry Stadium in Madison.”

3. What are some of the memorable games and/or players you've seen this year? “Monroe Area, despite its 4-5 record, is loaded with playmakers on both sides of the ball and, with a few breaks, could easily be 7-2 or 8-1. The Purple Hurricanes could prove to be a dangerous playoff team. Two players that have caught my eye are Oconee County linebacker Whit Weeks and North Oconee defensive back Khalil Barnes. [The best game?] The Eastside versus Clarke Central matchup on Oct. 21st at Billy Henderson Stadium was an absolute war. Clarke Central scored the tying touchdown in regulation and the winning touchdown in overtime, both on fourth-down plays.”

4. You're not only a broadcaster, but also an official, meaning you spend quite a bit of your time devoted to high school football. What do you enjoy about high school football? “I had spent the past six years officiating varsity football on Friday nights. Because I have broadcasting experience, WMOQ asked me to come out of retirement in August and work their Friday night game each week alongside Jon Wilson. I have remained active this fall as an official working junior varsity and middle school football. I did officiate one varsity contest this fall when most games around the state were moved to Thursday night the final week of September due to the threat of Hurricane Ian. There’s nothing quite like high school football. It has the power to bond the players, coaches, officials, student body and community.”

Today’s interviewee is Telfair County coach Matt Burleson, whose team defeated Dooly County 32-17 last week to clinch second place in Region 4-A Division II. The victory guaranteed the Trojans their first home playoff game since 1993. Burleson has been Telfair County’s coach the past 11 seasons, the fourth-longest tenure at one school in Class A Division II. His record is 54-56 at a program that was 1-19 the two seasons before he arrived.

1. What's the significance of winning that game last week? “For obvious reasons, it was important to us because it was a big region matchup versus a very good Dooly County team, but it was also senior night for our six seniors. They are a small group but a great group. Far beyond the field, they are a fun group to be around. They have put in the work and endured tough times, but they never quit. I’m so glad we were able to get this game for them. To clinch a home playoff game was huge, not only for our program but our entire community. You can feel the excitement in the school staff and the community. We have come a long way in the past 11 seasons, and we have taken the next step in the development of our program. We are still working toward our goals, but we are pleased with the progress we have made. It has not been an easy task, but the kids that have come through have made it all worthwhile.”

2. Our Improvement Tracker has Telfair County as the seventh-most improved team in Class A Division II. What's the difference between this year and last year? “Over the last couple of years, we have had to play a lot of young players, and they took their lumps but that has proven valuable experience coming into this season. They had outstanding winter, spring and summer sessions that led us to where we are now.”

3. What has the advent of Division II meant to Telfair and other schools? “I believe Dividing Class A I has allowed some of the smaller schools a better chance to compete versus schools closer in size to them.”

4. What has kept you in Telfair County so long? And for those who don’t know, where exactly are you? “Most people in Georgia have no clue where Telfair County is located. I just keep naming ‘big’ cities near us until they recognize one, then I tell them how far we are from there. The community has welcomed my family and me since Day 1 when we rolled up our sleeves and got to work. We’ve made a lot of friends and forged life-long bonds. It’s so rewarding to see kids in a small community go off and conquer the real world. It warms my heart that they reach out when they’re home to come by and say hi, send invites to weddings, birth announcements, etc. Our community is so supportive of all of our students in Telfair County Schools, and we are humbled to help lead a small part of the system.” [Telfair County High School is about 35 miles south of Dublin, 50 miles east of Cordele and 100 miles west of Savannah.]

Today’s interviewee is Berrien coach Tim Alligood, whose team defeated Dodge County 35-29 last week to clinch the Rebels’ first winning season since 1995. Alligood is in his fifth season. He’s a former Lowndes player and an assistant coach at Lowndes, Fitzgerald, Coffee, Thomasville and Tift County. He was on Berrien’s staff from 2013 to 2015 under coach Ed Pilcher.

1. Our Improvement Tracker has Berrien as the fifth-most improved team in Class 2A. What has made your team better this season? “There have been several factors involved in us having the season we've had. Our seniors are one factor. Most of them had to start as sophomores, and they took it on the chin in 2020. We were very competitive last year, and this year they have improved some more. Another factor has been our coaching staff. William Davis, Ken Eldridge, Doug Nix, Brian Carter, Fred Edwards, Wayne Jones, Austin Rowan and Matt Futch have done a phenomenal job, and I'm lucky to have them as a staff. I have a very supportive principal in Angie Lovein, and our booster club has been awesome this year, as well, giving us the support we need.”

2. What’s been the difference in Berrien over the long haul, since you took the job? “You hear coaches talk about ‘the process,’ and it becomes a cliché sometimes. I would have to use that term for our situation, though. It's my fifth year as the head coach here, and before me I think they had like nine or 10 head coaches in the last 20 years. This situation needed some stability, and we have provided that. For years the facilities have been outdated, and I was fortunate to be here my first year when they finished the new fieldhouse and stadium. They built us a new practice field at the high school with lights that is directly behind our fieldhouse, and we'll have a new middle school practice field and fieldhouse by the end of this year. Facilities aren't the sole factor in having success, but they were holding some things back here that were needed on a day-to-day basis to just give ourselves a chance.”

3. Josiah Davis has had a remarkable season with 1,465 all-purpose yards, 18 touchdowns scored four ways (plus one touchdown thrown) and 49 solo tackles. What would you want people to know about him? “Josiah is an awesome kid personally. He always has a smile on his face and is very well-spoken. He comes from a great family here in Berrien County, and they have done an awesome job raising him. Josiah has athlete dripping out of his shoes. He's about 6-3 and can run like a deer. He has natural instincts as a skill player that you can't coach; he just does them. I think because he is a multi-sport athlete – he is a standout basketball player as well – it helps him see things on the field. He's one kickoff return for a TD away from tying the national record of eight. I am still amazed at that. There have been years where I haven't seen a kickoff returned for a TD period, much less seven in one season.”

4. You played or coached under a long list of successful coaches. What were the most important things you learned from some of them? “I've learned and stole a ton from the guys I've worked for. I'll try to sum up each in a few words. Milt Miller: Relationships with folks matter. It took him four years to win his first region game at Lowndes, but because of how people respected him they gave him time. Randy McPherson: Lethal simplicity. He brought simple, physical football to the highest level. Richie Marsh: Live out what you preach. The best example I've ever seen of a Christian leader who lived it. Jay Walls: Organization and special teams matter. Jason Strickland: Keep coaches around you that you can trust. Ed Pilcher: Don't be too big to do the little things. He still cut grass, painted fields and did laundry as head coach at Berrien. Robby Pruitt: Be willing to adjust. He made his mark in the wing-T but went to a multiple shotgun offense at Coffee because that's what fit his players.”

Today’s interviewee is St. Francis coach Frank Barden, whose Class A Division I team won its first region title in program history last week with a 35-18 victory over Mount Pisgah Christian. St. Francis, a private school in Alpharetta, started varsity football in 2010, and Barden became its coach in 2018 before it had won a playoff game. Barden is a 29-year Georgia head coach with 213 career victories and a 1999 state title at Cartersville.

1. What gave your team the advantage in Friday’s game? “It has been a fun journey watching this team grow and learn each week. The schedule this year has been one of our toughest but has helped prepare us for our region games. I think that has forced us to keep working to put a good product on the field.”

2. What does the win and the region title mean to your team/program? “It was a great win for our program and school. Being the first region title for football means a great deal to our players but also for our overall athletic program. We have a great commitment from top down, and it is fun to be a part of what is being built.”

3. What are some things that people might want to know about your team if they haven’t seen you play? “We are a young team with six seniors that provide great leadership, and the Knight football players that played before them who laid a foundation of hard work and vision to be successful. The improvement by the players each week has really been key to where we are at this point.”

4. What do you feel that you and your staff have done that’s made the biggest difference in getting the team here? “This has been and is continuing to be a really fun thing to be a part of building from the ground up. It has taken many people committed to a common vision. Our challenge is to make the program better each day by having quality coaches and players fill a specific role of providing a four-year process to help these players prepare for their future both on and off the field.”