Dominance on the Field and Excitement on the Horizon!

The Central High Lady Red Devils flag football team has claimed the top spot in the USA Today Super Top 25 poll, boasting an 8-0 record and a remarkable 26-game winning streak. Halfway through just their fourth season, the team has been dominant on both sides of the ball, outscoring opponents 372-12. Coach Mitchell Holt credited the team’s focus and "next play" mentality for their success, saying it’s what helped propel them from No. 5 to No. 1 in just three weeks.

Central’s latest win came in a 55-0 blowout over Park Crossing, where Gerritt Griggs threw for 164 yards and six touchdowns, while Mariah Harrison added two more TDs. Savannah Savier and Natalyn Lumpkin combined for six receiving scores. Defensively, Kamouri Johnson led the way with five flag pulls, while Shabreia Brannon snagged two interceptions.

The Lady Red Devils face tough challenges ahead, including games against undefeated Brewbaker Tech and former Georgia state champions Harris County, Columbus, and Pacelli. With their eyes set on securing the region title, Central is ready to prove they deserve their No. 1 ranking.

Middle School Soccer Champions: A Winning Tradition Continues!

Congratulations are in order for the Richards Middle School girls’ soccer team, who captured the 2024 middle school championship, securing back-to-back titles. Their success reflects the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, who have built a program that continues to set the standard for middle school soccer.

On the boys’ side, Arnold Middle School claimed the 2024 title with an impressive 5-1 victory over East Columbus. The Arnold team was in control from the start, showing skill and teamwork to secure the championship. These young athletes have set the stage for what looks to be a bright future in soccer at the high school level.

Columbus High Girls Softball: A Perfect Season!

The Columbus High girls’ softball team has delivered a season to remember, finishing undefeated in the region with a flawless 12-0 record. Their dominance was on full display in their final regular-season game, as they routed Shaw 11-0 to secure the region championship. The Lady Blue Devils have been an unstoppable force, and their perfect run through the region sets them up as favorites heading into the postseason. With strong performances from key players, Columbus looks poised to continue their winning ways as they chase a state title.

Friday Night Lights: Rivalries and Big Wins!

The energy was electric across the area as Friday Night Lights delivered some thrilling matchups. The crosstown rivalry between Brookstone and Pacelli was an instant classic, with Brookstone edging out a hard-fought 21-14 victory. Brookstone sophomore Dillion Terry was a standout, rushing for 92 yards and two touchdowns on just nine carries. Junior Gary Jones added 84 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries, helping the Cougars secure the win in this battle of local powerhouses.

In the Annual Midtown Showdown, the Hardaway Hawks put on a clinic, dismantling the Columbus Blue Devils 47-6. The Hawks’ offense was relentless, improving to 2-2 in region play with the dominant victory. Hardaway’s explosive performance solidifies their position as a team to watch as the postseason approaches.

Week 9 Final Scores:

• Northside 33-14 Griffin
• LaGrange 42-28 Mary Persons
• Starr’s Mill 28-7 Harris County
• Glenwood 35-14 Dadeville
• Central 31-26 Carver (Montgomery)
• Auburn 70-6 Smiths Station

With the regular season nearing its end, teams are battling for playoff spots and positioning. This is the time of year when every game matters, and the intensity on the field is at an all-time high.

Week 10 Matchups to Watch:

• Thursday: Hardaway vs Jordan at Kinnett Stadium (7 PM), Carver vs Sumter County at Odis Spencer Stadium (7 PM)
• Friday: Columbus vs Kendrick at Kinnett Stadium (7 PM), Spencer vs Shaw at Odis Spencer Stadium (7 PM), Starr’s Mill vs Northside at Fayetteville (7:30 PM)

These matchups will have significant playoff implications, with local teams fighting for the best possible seeding. Be sure to catch the action as the season heats up!

Looking Ahead to High School Basketball Season!

As football inches closer to the playoffs, basketball season is just around the corner. The excitement kicks off with the Courier Eco Latino Basketball Media Day on Sunday, November 3rd, broadcast live on Georgia Alabama Sports Live! Over 16 high schools, along with CVCC’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, will gather to preview the upcoming season and give fans a taste of what’s to come. It’s a must-watch event for anyone gearing up for an exciting season on the hardwood.

Until next time, keep cheering for your favorite teams and get ready for more thrilling sports action both on the field and the court! See you under the Friday Night Lights and beyond!