The Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets and the Gainesville Red Elephants are set to clash in the Georgia Class AAAAA state championship. The match will take place on December 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Thomas County Central enters the game unbeaten with a record of 14-0, while Gainesville holds a record of 12-2.
Key Facts and Background
- Match Date: December 17
- Match Time: 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
- Thomas County Central Record: 14-0
- Gainesville Record: 12-2
- Previous Championships: Thomas County has 5 state titles; Gainesville last won in 2012.
Player Highlights
Thomas County Central
- Jaylen Johnson, Sr., QB: 2,503 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, 4 interceptions.
- Jabari Watkins, Jr., WR: 51 receptions, 804 yards, 11 touchdowns.
- Christian Lawrence, Sr., RB/SB: 1,836 rushing yards, 24 touchdowns.
- Omari Stephenson, Sr., LB: 67 tackles (48 solo), 12 tackles for loss.
- Cam Brooks, Sr., DE: 24 tackles (15 solo), 15.5 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks.
- Dannell Jester, Sr., SS: 34 tackles (28 solo), 3 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery.
Gainesville
- Kharim Hughley, Jr., QB: 2,344 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, 6 interceptions.
- Nigel Newkirk, Jr., RB: 1,496 rushing yards, 19 touchdowns.
- Philip Williams, Sr., WR: 41 receptions, 614 yards, 5 touchdowns.
- Xavier Griffin, Sr., LB: 96 tackles (67 solo), 12 tackles for loss, 4 sacks.
- Jamarion Matthews, Sr., DL: 58 tackles (46 solo), 21 tackles for loss, 10 sacks.
- Darryn Williams, Jr., LB: 88 tackles (64 solo), 9 tackles for loss, 6 interceptions.
Historical Context
Thomas County Central is aiming for their sixth state title, having recently secured a championship two years ago. On the other hand, Gainesville seeks to reclaim their glory, last winning a title in 2012 with an impressive performance by quarterback Deshaun Watson, who later led Clemson to a national championship and is currently in the NFL.
This matchup promises to be an exciting encounter, showcasing talent and determination. Fans can expect a fierce battle as both teams vie for prestigious honors in Georgia high school football.
