Week Three is upon us. That means more predictions, sure to be wrong. Worth saying, our picks last week were pretty good (13-2). This will be a lighter week, with 3 local teams getting their first BYE and another 2 that had to cancel due to COVID issues.

DISCLAIMER: We dissect the numbers, check against other projections, utilize the brain and not the heart. If we pick against any of our beloved 11 programs, take it as a diss if you want, or use it as motivation. We obviously would love to see all 11 programs win every single game, so we’ll celebrate even if we’re wrong if it means our locals walk off the field as winners.

THE LOCALS (Home Games Listed First)

#1 Jefferson Dragons vs Southside Tigers (SC)

The Dragons show no signs of slowing down. It’ll be a quick night in Jefferson against an 0-2 Southside group that is just trying to figure things out. VERDICT: Jefferson

#7 Stephens County Indians vs Jackson County Panthers

In the state rankings for the first time since 2016. Well-deserved, as the Indians appear to be legit and as balanced as they’ve been in many years. Jackson County is 1-0, but at The Reservation it should be a win for Stephens. VERDICT: Stephens County

Dawson County Tigers @ South Forsyth War Eagles

The Tigers are just looking for some momentum here. That will be hard to find being that they are on the road AND playing a Class 7A program that’s fairly decent. VERDICT: South Forsyth

White County Warriors @ Pickens Dragons

The Warriors hit the road and the task isn’t easy. Not too certain, but Pickens looked VERY good against Commerce, especially on offense. Being at home gives them the edge. VERDICT: Pickens

Union County Panthers @ Chestatee War Eagles

The Panthers lost out on a valuable week with COVID issues. That came after a flat performance against Fannin County in Week One. This team needs a win in a big way. Shouldn’t be a huge ask here. VERDICT: Union County

Banks County Leopards @ East Jackson Eagles

Banks County is in the same boat as Union. Missed a week due to COVID, need a win badly. Enter East Jackson (0-2). Here is a win, on a platter. VERDICT: Banks County

#1 Rabun County Cancelled @ #1 ELCA Chargers

#10 Commerce Cancelled vs #5 Athens Academy

BYE WEEKS

Habersham Central, Lumpkin County, Towns County

THE OTHERS

Predicted winners are in bold

Franklin County vs East Hall
#6 Hart County vs North Hall
Lakeview Academy vs Rabun Gap
#8 Cherokee Bluff vs East Forsyth
Denmark @ Shiloh
Riverside Military @ Druid Hills
BYE WEEKS: #1 Buford, Johnson, West Hall

Canceled due to COVID issues:
Gainesville vs #3 Flowery Branch