Brand New for 2020 – the Habersham EMC Linemen of the Week. Long have people asked for the guys who do the dirty work to get more recognition. Now, they do. Each week in the 2020 season, we will recognize an offensive lineman (or the full line as it is often a joint effort), and a defensive lineman, sponsored by Habersham EMC.

This week’s winners are Nolan Crane (Rabun) for the O-Line, and Kadin Bailey (Jefferson) for the D-Line.

NOLAN CRANE – RABUN COUNTY

Junior Nolan Crane was instrumental in the Rabun County Wildcats’ 63-7 win at the Granite Bowl in Elberton. The center claims his first BLITZ award after grading at 90%, and tallying 3 pancakes. He paved the way for 586 yards of offense.

OTHERS WHO STOOD OUT: Jefferson’s entire OL

KADIN BAILEY – JEFFERSON

Jefferson’s Kadin Bailey has long been making plays. Against Chestatee in a rare Thursday night game, the junior defensive end went OFF for 5 tackles (3 for loss), including 3 sacks and 2 QB hurries. Bailey typically plays linebacker, but with a few linemen out, he was unselfish in taking on the role. According to head coach Gene Cathcart, “Kaidn played almost exclusively at DE to make up for the Dragons missing both starters at DE – the D1 prospect unselfishly put his hand in the dirt for the good of the team and had his usual outstanding night.”

His 2 pressures led to interceptions. He led the Dragon defense, which completely handcuffed the War Eagle run game, holding Chestatee to only 45 yards on 29 carries for a 1.6 yard average per carry. Bailey is the son of former UGA star and NFL player Boss Bailey and nephew of NFL Hall of Famer Champ Bailey. This is Bailey’s first BLITZ award.

OTHERS WHO STOOD OUT: Travis Dickey (Dawson; 8 TKL, 1 TFL); Reace Hampton (Towns; 11 TKL, 2 TFL, 2 QBH); Caleb Cook (Towns; 8 TKL, 3 TFL, 1 FF, 1 Fum Rec)