The Jefferson Dragons are set to return to Mercedes Benz Stadium for the second consecutive year, ready to compete for the Class 3A state title after a hard-fought 17-13 victory over the previously undefeated West Laurens in the semifinals. Under the leadership of fourth-year head coach Travis Noland, the Dragons stand at a commendable 13-1 for the season and hold a ranking of No. 20 in the state, having secured four consecutive Region 8 titles.
In their upcoming matchup, Jefferson will face Sandy Creek, the No. 17 ranked team in Georgia, which boasts an unbeaten 14-0 record. This marks the first meeting between the two teams, both of which are back-to-back title winners in their respective regions. Sandy Creek’s head coach, Darius Smiley, is in his third year at the helm, guiding a squad that has proven potent on both sides of the ball.
Sandy Creek’s offense is spearheaded by junior quarterback Caleb Hill, who has achieved impressive passing statistics with 142 completions on 221 attempts, totaling 2,353 yards, along with 23 touchdowns and only four interceptions. He has also contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 398 yards and scoring eight additional touchdowns. The Patriots’ running game is robust, led by senior Amari Latimer, who has amassed 2,323 yards and an astounding 42 touchdowns, showing remarkable consistency with 14 games exceeding 100 rushing yards.
The receiving unit includes five players who are approaching 400 yards each, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive threat. Sandy Creek’s defense has been equally formidable, with junior defensive end/linebacker JT Austin notching 16 sacks and senior cornerback/strong safety Chase Usher making a major impact with interceptions and fumble recoveries. The Patriots have outscored their opponents a staggering 573-146, including three shutouts, one of which occurred in the quarterfinals.
For Jefferson, senior quarterback Colton Grant leads the charge, having recorded 60 completions for 886 yards, eight touchdowns, and six interceptions, while also adding 422 yards rushing and 12 more scores. Their ground game relies heavily on senior tight end/linebacker Darren Pinkard with 571 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. The Dragons’ defense is solid, led by junior linebacker Eli Primm, who has amassed an impressive 100 tackles.
As the championship game approaches, Jefferson has outscored its opponents 454-172 this season, including 161 points scored during the playoffs alone. The Dragons are looking to capture their first title since 2012, eager to redeem themselves after being the runner-up in 2020 and 2024. Sandy Creek, still seeking its first championship after previous wins in 2009, 2010, and 2012, will aim to extend its winning streak.
The highly anticipated showdown is scheduled for Wednesday, December 17, at 4:15 p.m. in Atlanta, promising to be a thrilling encounter between two determined teams vying for glory.