Talk about a great first impression! Kolson Howell was ready to go for his first start at QB. The Lumpkin County junior passed for 160 yards and two TD, and added 131 rushing yards and three more scores in a remarkable debut win over rivals Dawson. This is his first POW award.

Towns County’s all-time leading rusher is Kyle Oakes (’22), who finished his career with 2,815 yards rushing and 38 TD. Alex Baert is one game into his junior year, and already has 1,923 yards on the ground and 19 scores. Safe to say, he’s well on his way to leaving a lasting legacy up in Hiawassee. In the opener, he racked up a school record 340 yards and a record five TDs. But he also did it on defense – seven tackles (3 TFL), a sack, and three QB hurries. This is his second career POW award.

The theme of the junior QBs making their debuts continues. Brinn Robinson was phenomenal in the win over East Hall. He completed 80% of his passes for 315 yards, throwing four touchdowns in his first game as QB1 for the Warriors. This is the first POW award for Robinson, and certainly not his last.

Franklin County junior athlete Jett Whitworth had a great official debut for the Lions. The WR/S had two catches for 93 yards, with both going to the end zone. He didn’t stop there, as he also registered an interception (pick six), finishing with three TDs in his first official varsity game for Franklin. This is his first POW award.