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2 | December 2-15, 2011 | Vol. 7 Iss. 35 CONTENTS CAN’T MISS THIS WEEK 4 The Fletch previews GPB coverage of the GHSA football playoffs. Starting Lineup In this week’s cover story, Josh Bagriansky looks at the chances of metro At- 5 lanta teams in the football semifinals and beyond. Publisher/Editor I.J. Rosenberg GENERAL MANAGER Bob Houghton Managing Editor Stephen Black 7 Our prep cover story previews the metro Atlanta high school hoops season. ART/CREATIVE DIRECTOR DJ Galbiati Asst. Managing director Fletcher Proctor Are you ready for BOWLPALOOZA? Go here to preview our bowl contest, which business manager Marvin Botnick 9 will debut this year. SALES Chris Love Team Scoop and Voices BEAT WRITERS SHOT OF THE WEEK... COVER design by DJ Galbiati Stephen Black (UGA), Sean Conway (Falcons), Cover Photos courtesy of Josh Martindale, Walter Joe Deighton (Gladiators), Fletcher Proctor (Braves), Pinion, and tucker high school Scott St. Lifer (Swimming), Robby Kalland (Wrestling), Ryan Caiafa (Basketball), Josh Bagriansky (Hawks), 6 SCORE LIST - TRIVIA Thomas Watson (Tech), Dave Cohen (GSU) 12 GSU - Tech - UGA STAFF WRITERS Brian Jones 13 Score More Jack Morbitzer INSIDE AT SCORE TO ADVERTISE IN SCORE ATLANTA: Score Atlanta is looking for new sales associates 404.256.1572 as well as writing and graphic design interns. Copyright 2011 Score Atlanta Publishing, LLC. All rights re- For sales positions, e-mail Bob Houghton at served. Score Atlanta is published every week on Fridays. Views [email protected]. For writing in- expressed in Score Atlanta are not necessarily the opinion of ON THE ternships, e-mail Stephen Black at sblack@ Score Atlanta, its staff or advertisers. Score Atlanta does not knowingly accept false or misleading editorial content or adver- AMAZING TURNAROUND: Georgia continued its winning streak with a 31-17 win at Geor- scoreatl.com. For graphic design internships, tising nor is Score Atlanta responsible for the content or claims gia Tech on Nov. 26. It was the 10th consecutive win for the Dawgs, who dropped their first two games e-mail DJ Galbiati at [email protected]. of any advertising or editorial in this publication. No content (ar- Feel free to call 404-256-1572 to speak with ticles, photographs, graphics) in Score Atlanta may be used for of the season. Mark Richt and company will be back in town this weekend, when they face No. 1 LSU reproduction without written permission from the publisher. someone about any of these positions. in the SEC championship game. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye.

www.scoreatl.com | 3 columnists

(which didn’t even win its own division) orientation as an insult, that is crossing the for the BCS championship. (Remember, line. I will stand up against that. in 2007, Georgia finished tied for the SEC The evolution of Leo Mazzone continues THE East title but lost a tiebreaker. Alabama can- on 680 The Fan’s The Rude Awakening and, not even claim a share of the SEC West title he has had me recently yelling at my radio. this year.) ESPN crews Saturday night were Normally “any press/attention is good press/ FLETCH failing to give Georgia a shot, including the attention,” but not in this case. I remember team broadcasting the Egg Bowl. not too long ago I felt like Doc Holliday/Val Football final fours shown on GPB The game wasn’t interesting, so they Kilmer in Tombstone whenever Mazzone started discussing the SEC championship piped up. “Oh Leo, I apologize; I forgot you By Fletcher Proctor game. At one point the announcer laughed were there. You may go now.” when asked if Georgia had a shot. Matt Mil- Now though I guess the bigwigs told len at least would entertain the possibility him he needs to talk more on the show and he that Georgia could win, saying that Geor- has been interjecting him into the conversa- gia has improved since he called the Dawgs tion, bringing up bizarre points and killing the game against South Carolina. The AJC’s show’s momentum. I will be driving and sud- Jeff Schultz seems to believe that Georgia denly scream, “Shut up!” because I was try- has more than a “puncher’s chance,” against ing to hear banter between Sandra and Perry No. 1 LSU. “That short-changes Georgia.” Laurentino when Mazzone weighs in. When Schultz would argue that Georgia is rolling will it get better? He is starting to sound like and Aaron Murray is the best quarterback my 91-year-old grandfather, who also used to that the LSU defense will face this season, play baseball for the Yankees. While I love especially with his talented crop of wide re- my grandfather and believe he has forgotten ceiver. Oh, yeah, the defense is pretty good more about sports than I will ever know, he too opines Schultz. He noted that Jarvis doesn’t deserve a radio show. Sound familiar? Jones and company “throttled the Tech op- Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. Proctor can he GHSA football playoffs have reached starting at 4:30 p.m. with the action begin- tion offense (last) Saturday.” be reached at [email protected]. Tthe semifinals and Georgia Public Broad- ning Saturday at 1 p.m. Score Atlanta will There is also the chance that Georgia casting is all over it. GPB TV has televised be blogging all weekend long, and you can has done just enough the last two times out to countless 19 games this season and the web weigh in on the interactive live chat on gpb. keep it vanilla before throwing the chocolate has featured all of those games as well as org/sports. The games will reair December swirl with sprinkles against LSU in the title Can You Believe... an additional 14 to choose from each Friday 12-16 on GPB Knowledge with one game game. You never know, and if LSU gets down night. With the GHSA finals next week, Geor- each night at 8 p.m. early with the game not really mattering as ...He Said That? gia Public Broadcasting will be live from the Klein did a great job last year in the BCS math already has the Tigers in the title Georgia Dome Friday and Saturday before Class A game, and he has done a superb job game, perhaps Les Miles takes down the tents “Why you see me pushing the kickoff of the first game until the final tro- this season on WSB’s Thursday night games. and lets Georgia have its day in the Dome. He his helmet down [is] because phy has been handed out. It will be interesting to hear him in the booth has bigger and badder fish to fry. The broadcasting crews should be spe- with Coach McFarland, who should bring a I’m trying to remove myself cial this season too as some new voices will tremendous insight to the broadcast. Rathbun FOOT-IN-MOUTH DISEASE … be bringing you the games and breaking down has been calling college football the past few On his radio show leading up to the from the situation.” the action. Blessed Trinity head coach Tim seasons and everyone knows his voice from Georgia game, Georgia Tech head football McFarland, who won a state title with Ro- his work with the Atlanta Hawks. His enthu- coach Paul Johnson responded to a bark- Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh swell, will be in the booth for a pair of games siasm is sure to fit right in at the high school ing caller, “Anybody who calls into a radio tried to explain his actions against the and local play-by-play voice Bob Rathbun level. Also if anyone knows more about Geor- show and barks is either retarded or doesn’t Packers that earned him a two-game sus- will call in the booth for the Class AA title gia high school football than Tommy Palmer, have a life.” Credit the AJC’s Ken Sugiura, pension from the NFL. He continued, sort showdown. Zach Klein of WSB will also call please tell me. I am looking forward to work- who covers the Tech beat for calling John- of. “What I did was remove myself from a game and the GPB.org web team of Bob ing a game with one of the state’s legends. son out after the coach apologized. “Not sure the situation in the best way I felt, me be- Houghton and myself will be joined by a true what to say. It was a poor choice of words,” ing held down in the situation I was in. Georgia high school football legend Tommy NO RESPECT … wrote Sugiura in his beat writer blog. While And further, my intentions were not to kick Palmer for the Class A game Saturday. Sandra Golden brought up an interest- I hate parts of the PC world we live in these anybody, as I did not, removing myself as The GPB TV Football Friday’s team of ing point on The Rude Awakening last Tues- days where coaches such as Johnson are be- you see, I’m walking away from the situa- Gil Tyree, Trey McDaniel and former Brook- day when she asked who LSU was playing ing stripped of their personalities as to not tion and with that I apologize ... for putting wood coach Dave Hunter will announce in the SEC Championship. She was kidding give away any honesty, using retarded is a two of the games. Niki Noto, Jon Nelson, of course, but it apparently is a foregone harsh “cutdown” that shouldn’t be used as myself in the position to be misinterpret- Jackie Brittain and Mark Harmon will also conclusion to everyone that LSU is going to such. You can make fun of choices a person ed and taken out of the game.” be involved in the broadcasts. Class AA and roll over the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC makes, but when you use an unchangeable AAAA games will be played Friday night title game before moving on to face Alabama element such as a mental disability or sexual

4 | December 2-15, 2011 | Vol. 7 Iss. 35 COVER STORY

his blessings post game, even though his team FAMILIAR FACES … was in control much of the way. If you know anything about GHSA foot- state Final “We stunk up the joint,” Hidalgo told the ball, then you aren’t surprised by the presence Marietta Daily Journal. “This was easily our of Franklin Stephens’ Tucker Tigers and Jess worst game of the year. You hope it doesn’t Simpson’s Buford Wolves in the state semis. fourS come during the playoffs, but ours did, and we At Tucker, the Tigers have now incred- are fortunate to get out of here with a win.” ibly qualified for the semifinals in four of their Atlanta-area squads ready for semis Hidalgo’s initial reaction to the quarter- previous five seasons (winning a state cham- final win spoke volumes about the talent at pionship in 2008). This year, they’re as strong By Josh Bagriansky his disposal. The Raiders haven’t been a team as ever, entering Friday’s matchup with North- expected simply to win this season, but also side (Warner Robins) at 13-0. It will be a tough to win convincingly. test against a team that sports an identical re- Much of those expectations are because cord and will enjoy homefield advantage. of star running back Tyren Jones. The Lassiter Perhaps underdogs for the first time this transfer has been virtually unstoppable this season, the No. 1 Tigers can take solace in the fact that they flourished under adversity in last season, running behind an excellent offensive week’s 42-34 win over Flowery Branch, when line and wearing defenses down in Walton’s they trailed 14-0 early and had to hold on late. power running attack. Jones has run for more “It shows a lot about what this squad than 2,000 yards this season. is about,” said Stephens told the AJC. “We “He’s an elusive kid. He can spin, make knew at some point we would have to over- moves and break tackles,” Irwin said. “If you come some adversity and tonight we did.” give him a crease he’ll hit it and has the po- Leading the way is exciting junior quar- tential to go the distance.” terback Juwaan Williams, who rushed for hree weeks ago, 160 teams across Geor- gions, Irwin says his team still felt good about But Walton is about more than one play- three touchdowns in the win. He teams up Tgia opened up the state playoffs with one their chances. er. Safety/wide receiver Zack Blaylock just with backs Jordan Landry and Yusuf Minor to dream in mind: winning a state champion- “We lost senior night and homecoming might be the best two-way player in the state, form a monster backfield. ship. Today, only 20 of them remain with the against quality teams,” Irwin said. “We were and has gotten scholarship offers from the Williams’ dynamic play carries over to state semifinals set for this weekend. very focused and had great preparation. We likes of Kentucky, Louisville and Maryland, the defensive end, where he starts at corner to Many fine teams in and around Atlanta have knew we why we lost those games. Confidence and is getting serious looks from a slew of big lead a defense that surrenders just 11 points a already met their match, seeing their seasons end and competitiveness were not issues all year.” time SEC and ACC schools. contest. Keep an eye on Vandy commit Josh in the tournament. But for the Walton Raiders, The Trojans had to be confident, squeak- They might want to take a closer look after Dawson, as the 6-foot-4, 225-pound defensive Lassiter Trojans, Buford Wolves, and Tucker Ti- ing by Alpharetta in overtime in the first his performance against Dacula. Leading 14-10 in end is constantly in the opponent’s backfield. gers, the dream is still very much alive. round, upsetting vaunted McEachern in round the final quarter, the Falcons drove down the field Expecting Tucker to be in the state semis two and then taking down another favorite in and threatened to take the lead. But Blaylock was nowadays is a seemingly safe bet, but the Bu- FAMILIAR FOES … M.L. King to reach the semis. having none of it, picking off a pass deep in Raid- ford Wolves have reached the point where not winning a state championship would be a The state playoffs often deliver great Thanks to a fine passing game paced by ers territory to preserve the lead. Then, on third- surprise. Jess Simpson’s program has won the matchups between two teams that are unfa- quarterback Eddie Printz, the Trojans are a and-seven from their own three moments later, miliar with each other. But that is not the case difficult matchup for just about anyone. Printz last four Class 2A titles, and this year has been Blaylock caught a pass in the flat from Parker more of the same, as Buford visits Carver (Co- in Class 5A, where Cobb County and Region has thrown 26 touchdowns this season, with McLeod, made one man miss, and raced to the end lumbus) this Friday sporting a 13-0 record. 5-AAAAA rivals Walton and Lassiter go 24 of them going to a strong trio of wideouts zone for an incredible 97-yard touchdown. As always, the Wolves are loaded. Look head-to-head for the second time this season. in Charlie Hegedus, Juwan Dicker and Wil- Later, with his team up eight, Blaylock out for an intimidating defense that features The undefeated Raiders got the best of lie Police. But Lassiter will likely face their intercepted yet another pass in the end zone two Division-1 commits at the linebacker po- the Trojans on Sep. 30, winning 34-10 al- toughest test yet on Friday against a Walton to clinch their birth in the semifinals. sition in Dillon Lee (Alabama) and Nathan though they only lead 13-10 at the half. squad that has dominated from day one. “If there is a better football player in the Staub (North Carolina). They held Elbert At Lassiter, the team quickly forgot about The Raiders come in at 13-0, and had state of Georgia, I want to see him,” Hidalgo County without a first down until late in the that game and won its next two outings. How- beaten all of their opponents by double-digits said. “I know we have guys in the county that third quarter and limited all-state hopeful ever, Jep Irwin’s team struggled down the until last week’s 21-13 win over Dacula, who have more than 100 tackles or have 24 sacks, Tyshon Dye to just 39 yards on the ground. stretch, losing nail-biters to Etowah and Mari- made Walton sweat a little in the fourth quar- but winners make things happen. How many Photo of Grayson courtesy of Jon etta. But entering the tournament as the No. 4 ter. For a team that has been rolling through the other players have 10 interceptions and re- Barash. Bagriansky can be reached at seed from one of the Peach State’s strongest re- competition all season, Hidalgo was counting turned five for touchdowns?” [email protected].

www.scoreatl.com | 5 our thoughts

Mark Richt’s mojo Playoff Football Roddy and Ryan Our state is regarded as one of The two Pro Bowlers are officially Things looked pretty bleak in Athens ear- the top four producers of col- synced-up and playing at a high ly in September. The Dogs lost their first lege football talent in the coun- two games, and Richt was hardly the big try every year. Where do these level. Matt Ryan has notched a man on campus. Now, Georgia has the kids come from? Amazing high passer rating of 110.9 or better third-longest winning streak in the FBS. school programs. If you want to in three of the last four games. see some up and coming college The defense has been dominant, and Roddy White has 267 receiving Thumbs up TO stars (and some heated competi- quarterback Aaron Murray has been bor- tion) go check out this weekend’s yards in the past to games, all TURNAROUNDS derline brilliant lately. semifinal matchups. from Ryan’s passes.

Dome-field advantage NBA basketball Bulldog running backs Why can’t you people get to your Frankly, there is just too much Georgia’s 10-game win streak has been seats and get loud before kick- football going on right now to helped by a makeshift corps of running off on Sundays? Seriously? The even begin to think about pro backs down the stretch. In the last five Falcons have won five of their hoops. Sure, we’re all glad the lockout is behind us, but we’ve games, the heralded running back trio last six games, four of which got high school playoffs, Tech’s of Isaiah Crowell, Carlton Thomas and were home games, but fans still bowl game, Georgia in the SEC Richard Samuel has a combined 417 file into the Georgia Dome like Championship, the Falcons ap- rushing yards. Former walk-on Brandon Thumbs DOWN to they’re lining up for a tetanus proaching the playoffs, the Harton has 214 yards by himself despite shot. Rise up! Chick-fil-A Bowl… playing in only three of those games. Over-hyped recruits Score crunching TRIVIA SANITY List the NUMBERS QUESTION AT LAST BY brian jones & Scott st. lifer BY SCOTT ST. LIFER Prior to Saturday’s “Everybody always talks about OUR DOME: Georgia plays top-ranked Wins by Tim Hudson during the past the SEC Championship and LSU on Saturday in the SEC championship two seasons, more than Cliff Lee and SEC championship championships, period, as big game for a spot in the Sugar Bowl. The Dawgs are 1-3 all-time against the nation’s 33 Tim Lincecum games, but it’s still the same best with the lone victory coming in 1985 in game, what is the thing; we come in on Monday a 24-3 beatdown of Florida. Do the Dawgs Mark Richt’s winning percentage 1 have what it takes to spoil LSU’s national and do game reviews, we look against Georgia Tech only SEC team to title hopes? .909 over the scout report and you CENTER STAGE: The state semifinals Opponents’ rush yards per game have a winning record look at a team and you see occur Friday night with plenty of in- triguing matchups in store. On GPB-TV, allowed by the Falcons, the second- there are 11 guys on the field.” Colquitt County will square off against 83.5 best in the NFL against Les Miles’ Grayson while Burke County and Gaines- - UGA WR Chris Conley ville will duke it out at 7:30 p.m. at gpb. SECCG berths for Georgia under LSU teams? org/sports. Don’t forget to visit scoreatl. on playing in the SEC 2 com for up-to-the-minute updates on 4 Mark Richt your favorite school! Answer on Page 14 championship game. TIS THE SEASON: The holidays have Attendance at Phillips Arena for become jolly once again as the NBA has re- Georgia Tech’s first “home” game at solved its issues with the NBPA in order to 5,619 the venue salvage the upcoming season. The season will tipoff on Christmas Day and will con- sist of a 66-game schedule. Many of those Tentative length of the upcoming NBA my two cents 3 opponents will remain familiar, as 48 of the season beginning on Christmas Day The best in high school sports is here in at Lovejoy or see Class A titans Landmark Chris- games will occur between conference foes. 66 Georgia the next two weekends. More than 400 tian and ELCA face off. Or see one of the most Games Georgia has played against football teams have been reduced to just 20. impressive dynasties in the history of the TEXANS TOAST: The Falcons will look to And by Saturday, only 10 will remain. state as Buford tries to chase down its win their eighth game of the year when they the top-ranked team in the AP Poll take on the Houston Texans on Sunday. It Do yourselves a favor and get fifth Class 2A title in a row. will be an interesting contest because even 5 including Saturday’s matchup against out to a high school football play- If you can’t find a ticket for though the Texans are down to their third- LSU off game during the next two weeks. the semifinals, we understand as string quarterback, they still boast the No. 4 1 defense in the NFL. It will be another The best teams in the state will be every game is likely to be sold out. tough, physical ball game, but we think the Opponents remaining on the Falcons’ fighting on the gridiron for state But, for the state finals next week- Falcons will pull it out at the end. schedule that currently have a win- titles, and in Georgia, that means end, there will be plenty of tickets 2 ning record some of the best high school foot- left at the Dome to see the finals. TITLE QUEST: After earning a first-round bye, Georgia Southern will begin its road to ball anywhere. Anything short of a military call up a FCS National title when they take on Old Interceptions by Georgia safety Check out the Battle of East is not an excuse – you need to get Dominion Saturday at Paulson Stadium. Bacarri Rambo, second-most in the Cobb when Lassiter faces Walton, or out to the Dome. Games are on both The Eagles had a good regular season as head over to Grayson to see Region Friday and Saturday and you will not be they earned a 9-2 record and were ranked 7 NCAA No. 1 the majority of the season. Can they 1-power Colquitt County and famous let down by the games - we promise! 5 take down a team that has won seven of coach Rush Propst. On the southside of the Black can be reached at Tackles by Falcons’ linebacker Curtis its last eight games? The game starts at 1 city, check out traditional power Warner Robins [email protected]. p.m. on Saturday. 100 Lofton

6 | December 2-15, 2011 | Vol. 7 Iss. 35 takes and nervousness but the guys seem to Thomasville and Willie Clayton, one of the understand the target on their backs and are top players in the state. Shiloh impresses in early tournaments responding well.” GIRLS BALLIN’ … By Fletcher Proctor EAGLES STILL SOARING … On the girls side, McEachern has already The Blue Devils defeated Milton last year avenged last year’s title game loss to Norcross ollege football’s first few weeks of the previously knocked off Centennial, and Shi- with a 55-43 win over the Lady Blue Devils. year always feature an interesting debate: loh has moved up the Score Atlanta poll. in the playoffs, but Milton has too reloaded C for a run at a second title in three years. Da- McEachern is loaded with Score 44 talent challenge yourself and perhaps lose, or take Norcross, meanwhile, fell twice in the and could challenge the Blue Devils’ lock on the easy road and win games. High school event, but the Blue Devils came out of the vid Boyd has assembled another quality team that has already steeled itself against some big the title. Parkview is another team that could basketball in the state of Georgia has started gate slowly one year ago before going on to make noise at the AAAAA level as new coach to face the same conundrum as many teams win the Class 5A title. The team returned only competition. The Eagles easily dispatched of Class AA No. 1 Buford thanks in large part Tony Watkins has the Lady Panthers playing have begun challenging themselves with out- one starter after graduation and transfers hit at a high level. Parkview defeated Alpharetta of-state tournaments, in-state events against the program, but the Big Apple vs. Big Peach to Score 44 standout Evan Nolte. Milton also in the Parkview Tip-off Classic last week. some of the nation’s top teams or just trips Battle gave head coach Jesse McMillan the boasts Charles Mann, Shaquille Johnson and Buford will be without Andraya Carter across the state to face the best of the Peach chance to find a new rotation and work some Tevin Glass and would give last year’s core for most of, if not all of, the season after the State. players into the lineup. Brandon Goodwin four of Shannon Scott, Julian Royal, Dai-Jon future Lady Vol tore an ACL during the offsea- scored 25 points in Norcross’s first game of Parker and Jordan Lloyd a run for their money. son. The Lady Wolves program welcomed in GENERALS IN CHARGE … the two-day event while Derrick Herbert and AJ Davis’s transfer from GAC to Bu- Kristina Nelson from GAC to team with Kaela One team that made the most of the re- Myles Autry each scored 10 points. Harold ford seemingly shifted the balance of power Davis, and they have Buford poised for yet an- cent Big Apple vs. Big Peach Battle, pitting Givens is new to the program but was thrown in Class AA from the defending champion other title run. Wesleyan has also played well some of Georgia’s best against some of the in and he responded with nine points, six Spartans to the Wolves, a state finalist one against stout competition, winning the Turkey best from New York, was Shiloh High School. boards and three blocks. Norcross will next year ago. However Davis was on the bench Tip-Off recently, thanks to Holli Wilkins, Kae- Newcomer Robert Carter helped Shiloh win face another ranked team in Harrison in the in Buford’s recent loss to Milton and has not lyn Causwell and Jordan Frazier. its game against Bishop Loughlin with 20 Nike Explosion at Wheeler this Saturday. Mc- played since switching schools. Both AA Photos courtesy of Walter Pinion. Proc- points and eight rebounds. The Generals had Millan said of his team, “Typical early mis- schools could also see some competition from tor can be reached at [email protected]. score ATLANTA

8 | December 2-15, 2011 | Vol. 7 Iss. 35 score more

beverage hub. Fans should be able to grab standing sponsor of the 3-on-3 challenge refreshments, watch large video screens, field, and SEC fans will get a chance to watch SEC play corn hold or relax in the Aaron’s Dream the amazing and artistic cyclists from the Re- Lounge. There will be a renovated press box gions’ television commercials four times Fri- desk and set as well as a renovated mini camp day and an additional four times on Saturday. FANFARE combine in the AT&T Speed Zone. The 3-on-3 events will include basketball, The Dr. Pepper District will be the cen- softball and baseball, as well as a real field terpiece of this year’s SEC FanFare. The goal kick with turf and netting. The AllState Variety of activities awaits UGA, LSU fans horizontal field will provide a fresh- per Fan Zone will give fans a chance to test their embers of the Georgia Bulldog Nation experience by providing an intuitive path spective for fans and will allow for more “good hands,” and the Championship and Mand proud LSU Tiger followers will be to allow the fans to move around the event. seating for some unique programming and MVP Villages are important destinations for treated to plenty of football action Saturday, Fans can visit new sponsored zones/lands pep rallies. The District will contain the Dr. any fan that loves the SEC. but the fun doesn’t start with the game. The including the Dr. Pepper District, the Texas Pepper trailer, the display and two Dr. Pep- The Macy’s Star Challenge will also be 2011 SEC FanFare is back Friday and Satur- Pete SEC Tailgate, SEC LIVE!, the AT&T per Game Zones. hosting an interactive scavenger hunt that will day, and this year may be the best experience Speed Zone, Regions Financial District, the Do you love the SEC? SEC LIVE! is the require fans to cover every square inch of the yet. The hours have been changed to give all AllState Fan Zone and the MVP and Cham- area at FanFare that will feature SEC sports FanFare in order to win a $500 Macy’s gift card. college football fans more time to indulge in pionship Villages. facts and championship history in one inter- Other changes that folks may notice everything that is the SEC. Friday the doors Several of these zones have been up- active experience for SEC fans that love the are the upgraded seating around Dr. Pepper open at 1 p.m. and will stay open until 6 p.m. graded and some are brand new to the Fan- conference’s storied tradition of excellence field and the Region field as well asnew Saturday the doors will be open from 9 a.m. Fare experience. The Texas Pete SEC Tailgate in collegiate athletics. Fans will also get a signage and two new redesigned entrances. until 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and has been redesigned to give the bar area an chance to test their hands at facts about SEC Before you head down to the Dome for the $5 for children under 12, though kids get in updated look and feel. The SEC Tailgate will Champions in golf, baseball and softball in SEC Championship game, make sure you free on Friday. bring together all SEC fans favorite tailgat- addition to facts about football. stop by the SEC FanFare for an experience The new layout should enhance the fan ing activities and will serve as the food and The Regions Financial District is a long- you will never forget.

www.scoreatl.com | 9 high school sports BASKETBALL FOOTBALL NEWS NEWS Hoops season beings with tournies Lassiter, Landmark embrace underdog role By Brian Jones By Fletcher Proctor ith football season coming to an end, bas- mit Jarmal Reid, while the Spartans, who are he Lassiter Trojans and the Landmark to Brookwood in the title game. Mickey Conn ketball season has arrived and many teams the Class 2A champions, are looking to get TChristian War Eagles both were road war- and the Rams enter the game 13-0 and ranked Wgot seasons underway last week taking part in a big win after suffering losses last week to riors in the truest sense, each winning three No. 5 nationally in the latest USA Today poll, tournaments. Milton, the top-ranked team in Peachtree Ridge and Mill Creek. road games as a No. 4 seed to advance to the up two spots from one week ago. Colquitt Class 5A, traveled to Charlotte, N.C. last week The defending champs in 5A, Norcross, semifinals in Class AAAAA and A, respec- County was unranked one week ago but now tively. The Trojans first edged No. 1 seed checks in at No. 14. to take part in the Iverify Invitational. The Ea- will go up against Harrison in the third game, Alpharetta before going on the road again to gles had a very good showing as they took out and Wheeler will take on Southwest DeKalb edge No. 2 McEachern and No. 1 ML King. STREAK BUSTED … Harding (N.C.) 74-58 and Hunter Hess (N.C.) in the final game of the showcase. Norcross is Landmark Christian knocked off No. 1 Dar- The Sandy Creek Patriots had won 41 75-44. Both Shaquille Johnson and Evan Nolte looking to rebound after going 0-2 in Big Ap- lington, No. 3 Calvary Day and No. 2 Aqui- straight games which included the 2009 Class made the all-tournament team. The Eagles made ple vs. Big Peach Battle at Shiloh last week. nas. Each will once again be on the road as AAAA state title and the 2010 Class AAA their way back to Georgia on Tuesday to face Wheeler will look to start its season on the Lassiter faces No. 1 seed (its third in four crown before falling at Gainesville last week. Buford and came away with 75-51 win. right foot with a big win against a team that weeks of playoff matchups) in Walton, a re- The Red Elephants won a coin toss for the features Memphis commit Shaquille Good- gion foe that prevailed 34-10 on Sept. 30 in right to host the Patriots last Friday, and soph- KENNESAW EXPLOSION … win and Auburn commit Jordan Price. the “East Cobb Super Bowl.” The War Eagles omore Deshaun Watson did the rest, racking If you want to watch some of best bas- face ELCA, a team that thumped them 35-14 up five scores in a 35-21 victory. Buford now ketball teams in the state but don’t want to DIAMOND DEVIL … back on Oct. 14 in region play. owns the longest streak with 26 wins dating Lassiter will face Walton for a spot in the back to last year’s 14-0 loss at Carver-Colum- travel far away from home, then head over The Norcross Lady Blue Devils won the state title game and history is assured a chance bus. The Wolves return to the same site to face to Kennesaw State on Saturday as the Nike 5A title last year, and it looks like they could of being made. No Cobb County school has the Tigers with a date in the Georgia Dome Explosion Showcase will feature four games win it again this year. They lost to state run- hoisted a state football crown since Marietta going to the winner. Buford is aiming for its at KSU’s Convocation Center. The first game ner-up McEachern on Nov. 16, but bounced in 1967. Lassiter and Walton both opened fifth straight state title. will feature Buford and North Gwinnett. The right back with wins over Columbia and Fay- their seasons in the Georgia Dome, the site of Finally, Duluth’s Corey Jarvis and Wolves are the top ranked team in Class 2A ette County in the Lady Blue Tip-Off Classic. the state championships this year. Lowndes Randy McPherson were both named and the Bulldogs are led by Chris Bolden, The Lady Blue Devils are led by Diamond The Grayson Rams will meet the Pack- assistant coaches for the January US Army who recently transferred from Norcross. DeShields, who is considered by ESPN as one ers of Colquitt County in Loganville for All-American Bowl. Each will coach on the Game 2 will be between Columbia and of the six best players in the country. the right to go to the Georgia Dome for the east team for the high school all-star game. GAC. The Eagles, the defending Class 3A Jones can be reached at second straight season. Last season Rush Proctor can be reached at champions, are led by Oregon State com- [email protected]. Propst’s squad prevailed 31-24 before falling [email protected]. swimming wrestling NEWS NEWS Teams back in pools after break Rams set the bar at Alexander Duals By Ryan Caiafa By Robby Kalland hanksgiving break saw a moratorium for On the boys side for the Rams, Nick hile swimming took Thanksgiving week Parkview Thanksgiving Duals, placing fifth. swim teams across the state, but the sea- White, Mason McInytre and David Liska off for the most part, the wrestlers did not. Last year’s Class AAA team duals cham- Tson is gearing back up for some key upcom- are expected to lead Grayson against Collins W The Alexander Duals and the Parkview pion Gilmer won the tournament defeating ing competitions. Peachtree Ridge will take Hill’s top swimmers, while Mason’s sister, Thanksgiving Duals have been two of the Woodland 43-33 in the finals. The tourna- on Brookwood Saturday at Mountain Park. Morgan, along with the Gehle sisters, Anna biggest early-season tournaments this year. In ment featured a number of good teams in- Coming off another strong meet against Du- and Hope, will lead the charge for the girls. the Alexander Duals Collins Hill once again cluding Peachtree Ridge and Loganville, luth, Campbell and Kennesaw Mountain, the Several of Bullock’s swimmers, including asserted themselves as a top team in the state which finished third and fourth, respective- Lions will have their hands full against a tough Mason and Morgan McIntyre, Ryan Murray winning the tournament with a dominating ly. The top five teams from this tournament Brookwood Broncos team. The Broncos are and David Liska have already made the cuts performance. Archer placed second, with Ola plan to figure into the state championship coming off a successful outing from both the for the state competitions. third, and host Alexander fourth. equation for each of their classes. boys and girls teams against Parkview and Alpharetta, where the boys took second over- PUBLIC VS. PRIVATE … CAGEY COUGARS … LIONS DEN … all and the girls won. Brookwood will need Lassiter and Westminster will compete in Alexander coach Sean Moistner hopes to This weekend the Peachtree Ridge Li- to put on a similar overall team performance their annual dual meet on Dec. 6. Trojans coach build on this performance and feels his team ons Duals will take place Friday and Satur- to take down a strong Peachtree Ridge squad. Glenn Meeden is looking forward to what he can compete for state titles in February. The day. The 16-team field is highlighted by host considers to be a great experience every year team will be led by three-time state champion Peachtree Ridge, Milton, Alexander, Dacula, RAMS-EAGLES … for his team. “They [Westminster] are always Chad Starnes and two-time state placer Jamie Eastside and Roswell. Roswell is coming After sweeping the tri-meet against an excellent team with a great coaching staff Prescott. They will have seven new starters off of a second-place finish in the Kennesaw Berkmar and Meadowcreek, Grayson returns and we look forward to competing with them this year, but they are excited about the youth Mountain Duals this past weekend, and Alex- to the pool to take on Collins Hill on Satur- at their pool.” Meeden will look to build off on the team led by freshmen Bryce Hollomon ander and Peachtree Ridge will look to build day. The Rams were dominant at the meet, their performance in the dual meet against Pope and Roman Boylen. on their finishes in the Parkview Duals. with both the boys and girls team combining on Nov. 19, which saw the girls team win its “We feel like we can contend for the title Collins Hill will travel to Tampa, Fla., for a score of 628 to second place Meadow- competition, while the boys team narrowly in both the duals and individual state cham- to participate in the Cougar Invitational this creek’s 202 combined total. Collins Hill is fell to the Greyhounds. The Trojans hope Da- pionships even with the youth of the team,” weekend along with Camden County and coming off a closely-contested meet against vid Yap, Zachary Bunner and Drew Cuttic will said an ambitious Moistner. He hopes that his Valdosta representing the state of Georgia. North Gwinnett, which saw the boys team lead them past a tough Westminster in the boys team will be able to grow and develop over This tournament will be the first of six trips edge out the Bulldogs 171-143, while the meet, while Jordan Drake and Sarah Williford the course of the year and by wrestling against for the Eagles out of the state and they will girls team narrowly lost 160-151. “We’re are expected to carry much of the load for the top teams early in the year they will gain ex- look to prove that they are deserving of their looking forward to the challenge,” said Gray- veteran girls team in their competition. perience that will help them in the state cham- national ranking. son coach Rebekah Bullock, “and we have a Caiafa can be reached at pionships in February. Kalland can be reached at lot of strong and hard-working swimmers.” 404-256-1572. Alexander also competed in the 404-256-1572. 10 | December 2-15, 2011 | Vol. 7 Iss. 35 score more

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on Jan. 23, 2005. In just his second season, earned its first victory of the season with a 70- Buckner moved into Georgia State’s career 56 win over Campbell in the opening game of PANTHER top 10 list in blocks as well and now has 70, the Starwood Hotels of Atlanta Thanksgiving eighth most in school history. Classic last Friday at the GSU Sports Arena. “Our team continues to gain confidence The Panthers lost the second game of the PROWL every minute, every half and every game, and tournament, falling to Appalachian State 82- that is what we need to do,” said head coach 58. Turnovers were the problem as the Pan- Basketball wins third straight game Ron Hunter. “We keep talking about being at thers gave the ball away 31 times. The All- our best in February and tonight’s win definitely Classic Team included Eastern Kentucky’s By Dave Cohen helps us toward that goal.” The Panthers up- Marie Carpenter, Campbell’s Tonisha Baker, coming schedule includes a road game at South Georgia State’s Kendra Long and Chan Har- 14 in the second half to lead the way. Ali has fter dropping all three games in Seattle Carolina State and a home game with Florida ris, and Appalachian State’s Kelsey Sharkey Ato open the season, the Georgia State now scored 36 points in the last two games. International. (Listen on WRAS-FM 88.5) and MVP Chakeitha “TC” Weldon… basketball team (3-3) returned south and has Sophomore Devonta White added 15 points, Georgia State football closed out its sea- won its last three games, beating McNeese and Eric Buckner blocked a career-high seven LADY PANTHERS … son with a 42-35 win over Campbell to finish State, Samford and then Liberty University shots, to go along with nine points and seven In women’s action, Kendra Long scored the season at 3-8. last Saturday night 72-50. In the win over rebounds. Buckner’s seven blocks tied for the 20 points and Cody Paulk added 10 points, Dave Cohen is in his 28th season as the Liberty, Jihad Ali came off the bench to score second most in single-game history, trailing seven rebounds and three blocks as the Geor- “Voice of Georgia State Athletics” on WRAS- 16 points (6-for-6 from the field), including only Sylvester Morgan’s nine against Mercer gia State women’s basketball team (1-3) FM (88.5) and WCFO-AM, Newstalk 1160.

BULLDOG TECH BEAT TALK Dawgs ready for top-ranked LSU Johnson setting records after four years By Stephen Black By Thomas Watson t has been a busy few weeks for the Georgia vorite. Both defenses rank among the top units in espite this season ending on a sour note, The most likely destination at this point IBulldogs. America, as LSU is No. 2 in total defense while DGeorgia Tech fans should look over the seems to be the Sun Bowl, though if Clemson On Nov. 12, Georgia got revenge on Au- UGA is No. 5. Both teams are especially tough first four years of Paul Johnson’s tenure and loses badly enough in the ACC championship, burn for last year’s loss on the Plains. In a 45-7 against the run as the Tigers rank No. 4 against the use this holiday season to be thankful for the the Tigers could fall and subsequently push win, the Dawgs looked dominant for the first rush while the Dawgs check in at No. 6. Georgia’s team’s best coach since Bobby Dodd himself. Tech further down the ladder. time all year against an SEC team. The follow- biggest advantage is in passing offense, where the Only four coaches in the history of the ing week, Mark Richt’s team clinched the SEC Bulldogs rank No. 47 to LSU’s No. 100. ACC have won more games than Johnson HOOPS UNDERWAY… Eastern Division and a trip to the Georgia Dome in their first four years in the league, and no The Brian Gregory era began with a for the SEC championship game with a win HOOP HOUNDS … coach has ever done what Johnson has in win- two-game win streak, but as the Jackets have over Kentucky. And finally, the Dawgs won the Mark Fox’s basketball squad began the ning coach of the year in each of his first two played tougher competition, they have lost Governor’s Cup with their 10th win in 11 meet- season 4-3 but has lost three of its last four. seasons. Johnson’s 21-11 conference record is three out of the last five to fall to 4-3. A 76- ings with arch rival Georgia Tech last week. However, the Dawgs did avenge last season’s the ninth best in the history of the ACC, and 60 loss to Northwestern Tuesday night marked Now it’s on to No. 1 LSU at the Georgia loss to Notre Dame when they defeated the he is only the fourth coach in the ACC to beat three losSes in three games against opponents Dome. The Dawgs have faced American’s top- Irish 61-57 in the third-place game of the CBE all 11 conference opponents. Maybe even from major conferences. ranked team only five times in their illustrious Classic in Kansas City. Georgia had lost earlier more impressive is that Johnson’s teams are Glen Rice, Jr. has proven to be the Jackets’ history with just one win- a 24-3 shellacking of in the tournament 70-46 to No. 23 California. a combined 16-2 when holding opponents to top player this season, though he has had issues Florida in 1985. The Bulldogs followed up the win over 20 points or less, 20-5 when playing at home, seeing eye-to-eye with Gregory. Despite being It is Georgia’s fourth appearance in the Notre Dame with losses to No. 12 Xavier and 26-4 when leading at the half and 29-2 when forced to come off the bench, Rice has scored in SEC championship game, and its third meet- Colorado, which has not lost in 26 consecutive leading after three quarters. double figures the last four games after dropping ing with LSU in the Dome. Georgia is 2-1 in non-conference games at home. Outside of the ACC, Johnson’s career 10 points on Northwestern. Jason Morris scored previous conference championship games and Georgia now moves on to a game with .712 winning percentage is seventh-highest 16 points in 15 minutes during the first half. Mor- 1-1 against the Tigers. In fact, the last time the Georgia Tech in Athens on Wednesday. The among active FBS coaches, and only 12 ac- ris finished with 21 points. After a game against Dawgs were in the big game, they upset No. 3 Dawgs have not lost to Tech in Athens since tive FBS coaches have more career wins. His Tulane, the Jackets’ basketball team will get its LSU 34-14 in 2005. the rivalry moved to the campuses in 1994. teams at Tech are a combined 22-1 when scor- shot at arch-rival Georgia on Wednesday. Georgia will have to hope for another upset Black can be reached at ing more than 30 points; however, Johnson has Watson can be reached at this time around, as the Tigers are a 14-point fa- [email protected]. yet to win a bowl game at Tech. [email protected].

12 | December 2-15, 2011 | Vol. 7 Iss. 35 pro sports HAWKS FALCONS HAVEN FLIGHT Lockout ends, season to be shortened Falcons try to extend road streak By Josh Bagriansky By Sean Conway fter nearly 150 days of being locked out combo guard, and it’s clear that losing Craw- n the Falcons’ 24-14 victory over the Min- the run and pressuring rookie quarterback and countless hours of negotiations, NBA ford would be a tough pill to swallow. Inesota Vikings Sunday at the Georgia Christian Ponder. Reserve defensive end Afans and players finally received confirmation But after failing to extend Crawford last Dome, quarterback Matt Ryan and the de- Lawrence Sidbury led the statistics page in that there would indeed be a 2011-12 season, summer, having little money to spend and fense’s front seven played possibly their best terms of pass rush with two sacks. Corner- with training camp and free agency tenta- even less time to get a deal done, his days in game of 2011. back Christopher Owens and linebacker Sean tively scheduled for Dec. 9, and opening day Atlanta could be numbered. Ryan relied on his two most trusted Witherspoon also brought down Ponder once weapons, tight end Tony Gonzalez and wide each behind the line of scrimmage. falling on Christmas Day for the first time in Crawford switched agents last month, receiver Roddy White, to put up All-Pro cali- The Falcons (7-4) held Minnesota’s fifth league history. signing with New Jersey-based firm ASM ber numbers: Ryan’s stat line Sunday looked ranked NFL rushing attack to just 64 yards. With a shortened season, the Hawks can Sports. According to Frank Isola of the New Aaron Rodgers-esque, Ryan was 27-34 pass- expect an extremely congested schedule that York Daily News, that move that could result ing for 262 yards and three touchdowns with- GOING WEST … calls for 66 games beginning on Dec. 25 and in a move back to the New York Knicks. out an interception. This weekend the Falcons face a tough ending April 26. Teams will play 48 confer- Crawford played four seasons in the Big Gonzalez was workmanlike in the task in a road game at the AFC South leading ence games and 18 non-conference games. Apple before being traded to Golden State 11 short passing game with nine catches for 69 Houston Texans (8-3). Despite being without Even more interesting will be impending games into the 2008-09 season in a cost-cut- yards., while White caught 10 passes for 120 their top two quarterbacks, Matt Schaub and games on three consecutive evenings, during ting move. But the former Knick holds no ill yards and his fourth touchdown of the sea- Matt Leinart, the Texans have a premier of- which all 30 teams will have to play at least will and would be all ears if talks continue to son. Wide receiver Harry Douglas and tight fense thanks to the third best rushing attack once but no more than three times. stall in Atlanta. end Michael Palmer caught Ryan’s two other in the NFL. Running backs Arian Foster and “I don’t think the trade was personal,” he touchdown throws. Ben Tate have rushed for a combined 1,512 KEEPING CRAWFORD … said. “It was all about 2010 and the players Head coach Mike Smith liked the saw out yards and 10 scores. Former Pope high school of the efficient passing game, “We felt like if star T.J. Yates will get the start at quarterback. The principle piece of business for the you can possibly get. I love Atlanta. I want to we could get our short passing game going that The Houston defense has been even Hawks now becomes re-signing Jamal Craw- work out an extension here, but if I become a would basically be like a running play. … The more formidable than the offense. The unit ford. The 2009-10 NBA Sixth Man of the free agent it’s not the end of the world. “I’ll timing was impeccable and we were able to get is ranked fourth against the run and second- Year has been a key cog for Atlanta in past definitely listen [to the Knicks]. If the exten- those five, six and seven yard completions.” against the pass in the NFL. Five players have seasons, giving the Hawks a scorer to take the sion isn’t working out, I would definitely lis- Also of note for the offense: they scored touch- notched at least 4.5 sacks for the Texans, led pressure off of Joe Johnson in the backcourt, ten for sure.” downs on each of the three drives they ran a by Connor Barwin’s 8.5. and a spark off the bench not many teams can Bagriansky can be reached at play inside the Vikings’ red zone. Conway can be reached at offer. Add in a slew of clutch shots hit by the [email protected]. The defense also had a great day against [email protected]. CHOP GWINNETT SHOP GLADiators Hudson expected to be ready for season Overtime loss spoils division lead By Fletcher Proctor By Joe Deighton tarting pitcher Tim Hudson recently went un- League Top Prospects Team, which recog- he Gladiators’ lead in the South Division is games coming up with Florida, two points are der the knife, and the team announced that nizes the best players based on their perfor- gone after South Carolina handed Gwinnett essential in each game. Sthe surgery to repair a herniated disc in his back mance in league play as well as how they Ta 5-4 overtime loss in North Charleston. Gwin- was successful. In a release from the team, GM project at the MLB level. Bethancourt is a nett was lucky to leave South Carolina with a RATED ROOKIE … Frank Wren said, “Based on (Monday’s) pro- catching prospect while Terdoslavich can point, as the Glads trailed 4-2 midway through Forward Bryan Brutlag has been a key cedure, we are happy that this will help allevi- player either infield corner position. the second period. Forwards Pat Galivan and contributor in his rookie season for Gwinnett. ate some of the discomfort that Tim felt. The Ryley Grantham scored for Gwinnett to tie The 22-year old has played all 20 games and prognosis is positive for him to be ready for GONZO GONE-ZO … the score going into the third period. It would posted seven points (4 G, 3 A). Brutlag has Spring Training and to be able to pitch during The Braves will have a new shortstop remain tied into overtime when Stingrays for- 43 shots on goal, four penalty minutes and the Spring Training Schedule.” Hudson was 16- when the season rolls around. The team an- ward Trent Campbell put home the game-win- is even on plus/minus. The rookie scored his 10 one year ago with a 3.22 ERA. nounced that salary arbitration was not of- ner. Gwinnett now trails the Stingrays by two most recent goal on a penalty shot against the The Atlanta Braves will wrap up spring fered to free agent Alex Gonzalez. It is be- points in the standings. At the quarter point of Stingrays. training north of Florida as the team has done lieved that Gonzalez is seeking a two-year the season, the Gladiators are 9-6-3-2. the last few years, but unlike in years past, the deal which the Braves were not offering, but NEAR-RECORD PACE … Braves will head to Coolray Field in Gwin- by not offering the arbitration, the team will FREQUENT OVERTIMERS … The Gladiators’ all-time goal scoring re- nett. Atlanta will square off against a squad not receive a compensatory supplemental In just 20 games, Gwinnett has already cord is 36, set by Colton Fretter back in the of prospects at the home of the organization’s draft pick from the team that signs Gonzalez, played seven overtime games, which is the 2006-07 season. Forward Pat Galivan has al- Class AAA affiliate. Pitchers and catchers re- a Type B free agent. Compensation for Type most in the ECHL. The Glads have a 2-0-3- ready scored nine goals in the first 20 games, port to the team’s spring training facility on B is a pick following the first round. Type A 2 record after regulation and are on pace for on pace for 32 this season. The 25-year- Feb. 19 for the first team workout on Febru- free agents give a similar pick plus the first- a record-tying number of overtime contests. old should break his own mark of 20 goals ary 20. Position players report four days later round pick of the team that signs the player. The league record is 18, set when the Gladi- scored back in 2008-09. Galivan has scored and the first full-squad workout for the 2012 The former Brave likely would have received ators were known as the Mobile Mysticks most of his goals on the power play, and he season is Feb. 25. a raise from his 2011 $2.5M salary. He hit back in 2002. More wins in regulation would leads the team with five special teams tallies. just .241 with a paltry .270 on-base percent- be a good idea with the standings being as He should add to his scoring mark this week BRIGHT FUTURE … age. Tyler Pastornicky is an option, though close as they are. Earning just a point will set against Florida. Galivan leads the Gladiators Two Braves farmhands were honored he is projected to need more seasoning at the the Gladiators back, especially against divi- with three points in three games against the recently for their efforts in the Arizona Fall minor league level. sion opponents like South Carolina and Flor- Everblades this season. League. Joe Terdoslavich and Christian Proctor can be reached at ida. The Everblades have 20 points and are Deighton can be reached at Bethancourt were named to the Arizona Fall [email protected]. nipping at the heels of the Glads. With three [email protected].

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