We’re coming off a 15-2 week on our picks; so far this season shooting 84%

THE LOCALS

Banks County vs #3 Rabun County

Banks hosts Rabun in a battle of two teams undefeated in 8-AA play, both at 2-0 in that regard. The Leopards have really caught their stride, and Rabun has just been ridiculously good, with starters not playing much at all in the second half lately.  PREDICTION: Rabun Wins

White County vs #5 Flowery Branch

The Warriors have easily had one of – if not THE – toughest slate in the area, so are much better than the 1-4 record. Consider that they’ve played Lumpkin and Class 6A Habersham, which were both won or close to being won. Then came Pickens, #10 North Hall and #3 Marist. This week presents #5 Flowery Branch, a third straight ranked opponent. While we think White County can win, Flowery Branch has such a very balanced offense of a power run game and can spread the ball out in the passing game too. PREDICTION: Flowery Branch Wins

#7 Jefferson @ Franklin County

The Dragons travel to Franklin County and there’s no reason to think the run game will be stopped any time soon. PREDICTION: Jefferson Wins

#9 Dawson County @ East Hall

Dawson goes to East Hall and the Vikings will have a very tough task of stopping the potent Tigers run game and trying to get points of a stingy defense. PREDICTION: Dawson Wins

Habersham Central @ Lanier

Habersham returns after a bye week and travel to Lanier for the region opener. This one proves difficult, as Lanier is a proven high-quality team that has two straight road wins against good opponents, but has also been racked by Central Gwinnett, a 1-4 team. It really depends on which Lanier team shows up, but we’ll still take our Raiders in this one. PREDICTION: Habersham Wins

Union County @ Elbert County

This will be the first big test for Union County, whose 5-0 start is no fluke. Elbert raises the competition level for sure though, as the Blue Devils have a high-scoring offense with a complimentary solid defense. Two playoff teams no doubt, but Union’s top-five offense and defense in Class 2A makes us lean in that direction. PREDICTION: Union Wins

Towns County @ Riverside Military

The Indians need some traction after falling in two straight. This game gets the job done. PREDICTION: Towns Wins

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THE REST

Predicted winners underlined….

#2 Buford vs Johnson

Chestatee vs #6 Marist

Denmark vs West Hall

#10 North Hall vs #4 GAC

Gainesville @ Dacula

Cherokee Bluff @ Fannin County

Lakeview Academy @ Hebron Christian Academy