A look ahead... Class A Playoffs

Class A Playoffs
Similar to their Class AAAA brethren, the state’s smallest classification also decides its champion using the two division system. Though I don’t agree with it, it is the system we have to live with.
One thing it has done this year is produce two pretty interesting brackets, almost sure to deliver some heart-stopping moments en route to Columbia’s Benedict College where a state champion will be crowned.

Division I
Which ever team walks away with this title surely will have earned it. In my opinion, half of the field could potentially walk away from Columbia as champions.
In the Upper State, Chesterfield aims to win a fourth consecutive state title as the region’s second seed. A landmine in the form of Lamar may reveal itself to the Rams in the second round, followed by an Upper State final potentially against the likes of Abbeville, Calhoun County or Landrum … a tough draw indeed.
Undefeated Bamberg-Ehrhardt has the inside track to Benedict College this year, drawing the Lower State’s top seed. A match-up with the winner of the Johnsonville-Ridgeland match-up lurks in the second round.
Should the Red Raiders make it through to the Lower State final, waiting for them there could be Hemingway, setting up a battle between two undefeated teams for a chance to earn a championship.

Upper State
(8)Blacksburg (6-4) at (1)Abbeville (9-1)
(5) Landrum (7-3) at (4)Calhoun County (8-2)

(6)Ninety Six (6-4) at (3)Lamar (9-1)
(7)Ware Shoals (4-6) at (2)Chesterfield (7-3)

Lower State
(8)C.E. Murray (5-5) at (1)Bamberg-Ehrhardt (10-0)
(5)Johnsonville(8-2) at (4)Ridgeland (7-3)

(6)Baptist Hill (6-4) at (3)Burke (4-5)
(7)Allendale-Fairfax (5-4) at (2)Hemingway (10-0)

Division II
A number of teams may do their best to contend, but it again seems we are destined to see Scott’s Branch and Williston-Elko match wits for the Class A-Division II title.
The programs have split the last two Division II championships, beating each other to claim their classification’s top prize. While a potential Upper State final against Christ Church may be the only real roadblock for the Blue Devils, Blackville-Hilda looks like the biggest threat between the Eagles and them claiming a third consecutive Lower State title.

Upper State
(8)Ridge Spring-Monetta (3-7) at (1)Christ Church (10-0)
(5)Calhoun Falls (6-4) at (4)Fox Creek (7-3)

(6)Southside Christian (3-7) at (3)Great Falls (7-3)
(7)McCormick (3-7) at (2)Williston-Elko (9-1)


Lower State
(8)Bethune-Bowman (2-8) at (1)Scott’s Branch (8-2)
(5)Lake View (6-4) at (4)Cross (5-5)

(6)Denmark-Olar (4-6) at (3)Blackville-Hilda (7-3)
(7)Whale Branch (5-5) at (2)Hardeeville (5-5)

Northwestern makes statement - Trojans get last word against Gaffney, win dogfight 42-28

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

Northwestern wide receiver Rontavious McClure hauls in his second touchdown over the outstretched arms of a Gaffney defender to clinch the Region III-AAAA title for the Trojans, who defeated the Indians 42-28.

Northwestern head coach Jimmy “Moose” Wallace warned his team in the week leading up to the Trojans’ contest with Gaffney that it would be nothing short of a war.
The two Class AAAA heavyweight went back and forth for three quarters Friday night at Rock Hill’s District 3 Stadium, however, it was Northwestern which had a little more ammo left in its chamber, defeating the Indians and claiming the Region III-AAAA title.
It took a complete team effort for the Trojans to notch the victory, as quarterback and Tennessee prospect Justin Worley found the end zone six times -- five through the air and once on the ground -- while safety Montrece Kennedy grabbed three interceptions, including two in the fourth quarter to halt Gaffney drives.
“I’m proud of our kids,” Wallace said. “We told our kids all week it was going to be a war, a dogfight. … We knew we had to play as good as we could, and our secondary did a good job.”
Things got off to a fast start for Northwestern, intercepting Gaffney quarterback DeEdward Burris on the game’s first play. A few plays later, Worley was able to find his favorite target, wide receiver Robert Joseph, for a 13-yard score to give the team a 7-0 advantage.
Burris and the Indians did not stay on the mat long, however, engineering a drive keyed by the star signal caller’s athleticism both with his arm and legs, with the senior hitting pay dirt on a 6-yard run to tie the game. After forcing a rare Trojans’ three-and-out, Gaffney would take the lead on a 4-yard score from C.J. Miller
During the drive, Burris separated his left (non-throwing) shoulder, an injury that would impact how he and his team played the rest of the game.
Northwestern would tie things at 14 apiece to end the first stanza, hitting Brandon Lewis 24 yards down the center of the field for the score.
With just over four minutes remaining in the first half, Gaffney’s Burris returned to a standing ovation by Indian faithful, driving the offense 56 yards to reclaim the lead at 21-14, with backup quarterback Joey Copeland doing the honors by running it in from a yard out.
A controversial call to end the first half drew the Trojans even as the teams went in for intermission, Worley hitting big target Rontavious McClure on a fade route just over the outstretched hands of a Gaffney defender to make the score 21-21.
“That was big, big, big; we’ve been wanting Rontavious to just go up and get the ball,” Wallace said.
Things slowed down quite a bit in the third quarter, as Northwestern was the only ones to score in the stanza. Following Burris’ second interception of the game, Worley directed a 12 play, 94 yard drive which ended with the quarterback crossing the goal line on a seven yard run, giving the Trojans a 28-21 lead.
As had been the case all game though, Gaffney would again return the favor, the drive ending with Copeland’s second score of the game. But Northwestern would seize control of the contest for good on its next possession, using its short passing game to chip away at the Indians’ defense before hitting it big, this time a 10-yard completion to B.J. Boyd for a 35-28 lead.
The Trojans would put things out of reach with Worley’s sixth score, a 9-yard pass lofted to McClure in the corner of the end zone to give them a 14-point advantage, one it would not relinquish.
The Northwestern quarterback finished 37 of 48 passing, throwing for 427 yards and five scores. He had one interception in the contest. Worley’s top target on the night was Boyd, who hauled in 11 balls for 112 yards.
Gaffney’s Burris was 15 of 25 for 246 yards and four interceptions, gutting things out despite sustaining a shoulder injury early in the first half. Quinshad Davis had 258 yards receiving for the Indians in a losing effort.
Northwestern improves to 10-0 (4-0 S.C. Region III-AAAA), while Gaffney falls to 7-3 (3-1).

A look ahead... Class AA &AAA Playoffs

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

Playing at home throughout the Class AAA Upper State playoffs, it would be easy to tab the Stallions as the favorite to make it to Columbia and the state title game. However, the task will be easier said than done.

Class AAA Playoffs
The road to Columbia from the Upper State will be quite treacherous for top ranked South Pointe, which faces a potential second round match-up with defending state champion Clinton followed by a possible clash of the titans with Greenville and its prolific offense led by quarterback Glenn Baston.
Undefeated Belton-Honea Path’s path is no easier, getting Greer to open the playoffs. A second round match-up between former region rivals Fairfield Central and Union County also looms large should both advance.
Meanwhile, Myrtle Beach appears to be far and away the class in the Lower State, though should it meet Hartsville in the state semifinals will find itself on the road. However, the match-up to see on this side of the bracket in the first round is Berkeley at Camden, squads regarded as two of the best in the state, yet one will leave the playoffs earlier than hoped.

Upper State
(4)Eastside (2-8) at (1)South Pointe (9-1)
(3)Daniel (6-4) at (2)Clinton (7-3)

(4)Fort Mill (5-5) at (1)Greenville (9-1)
(3)Chapin (5-5) at (2)Seneca (7-3)

(4)Pickens (6-4) at (1)Union County (7-3)
(3)Berea (7-3) at (2)Fairfield Central (9-1)

(4)Greer (6-4) at (1)Belton-Honea Path (10-0)
(3)Chester (6-4) at (2)Wade Hampton (G) (9-1)

Lower State
(4)Hilton Head (4-6) at (1)Hartsville (7-3)
(3)Socastee (4-6) at (2)Airport (8-2)

(4)Lakewood (4-6) at (1)Bluffton (9-1)
(3)A.C. Flora (9-1) at (2)Wilson (5-5)

(4)St. James (2-8) at (1)Midland Valley (6-4)
(3)Berkeley (7-3) at (2)Camden (9-1)

(4)Brookland-Cayce (2-8) at (1)Myrtle Beach (9-1)
(3)Marlboro County (6-4) at (2)Cane Bay (6-4)

Class AA Playoffs
The difference between being this classification’s champion and it’s “first loser” has been a single point the past two years, each time Dillon able to just get by Central. It would seem the two titans are again on a collision course, but several suitors have put themselves in line for a shot at spoiling the party.
Only a potential Upper State semifinal match-up with Strom Thurmond would seem to keep the Eagles from a third consecutive trip to Columbia, getting a favorable draw through this year’s tournament. Dillon, on the other hand, may have a tougher go of things.
A Lower State semifinal contest could pit the Wildcats, undefeated in their own right, against a Timberland team which would also enter the game with an unblemished record. Should Dillon survive the game, a list of capable opponents in the form of Silver Bluff, Manning, Hanahan or Lake City would await in the Lower State championship game.

Upper State
(4)Emerald (5-5) at (1)Palmetto (8-2)
(3)Columbia (6-4) at (2)Indian Land (9-1)

(4)Carolina (5-5) at (1)Woodruff (7-3)
(3)Cheraw (3-7) at (2)Batesburg-Leesville (7-3)

(4)Lee Central (4-6) at (1)Strom Thurmond (8-2)
(3)Pendleton (5-5) at (2)Mid Carolina (9-1)

(4)Gilbert (1-9) at (1)Central (10-0)
(3)Newberry (4-6) at (2)Chesnee (7-3)

Lower State
(4)Stall (4-6) at (1)Silver Bluff (9-1)
(3)Manning (7-3) at (2)Mullins (8-2)

(4)Barnwell (3-7) at (1)Hanahan (7-3)
(3)Loris (7-3) at (2)Lake City (8-2)

(4)Marion (4-5) at (1)Timberland (10-0)
(3)Swansea (5-5) at (2)Woodland (8-2)

(4)Bishop England (5-5) at (1)Dillon (10-0)
(3)Wade Hampton (H) (6-4) at (2)Garrett (7-3)

How did the ranked teams fare? ... Palmetto State roundup - Week 10

NOTE: The Prep Writers’ Poll is voted on by Mark Holmes (Allendale Sun), Adam Regan (Anderson Independent Mail), Justin Jarrett (Beaufort Gazette/Island Packet), Phil Bowman (Charleston Post and Courier), Bob Castello (Greenville News), Matt Anderson (Greenwood Index-Journal), Shane Bowen (Myrtle Beach Sun News_, Kevin Melton (Spartanburg Herald-Journal), Barry Byers (Rock Hill Herald) and Akilah Nelson (The State).

CLASS AAAA
1. Dorman (10-0)-def. Byrnes, 21-14; NEXT: at Woodmont
2. Northwestern (10-0)- def. Gaffney, 42-28; NEXT: at Rock Hill
3. Goose Creek (10-0)- def. Ashley Ridge, 28-3; NEXT: vs. Beaufort
4. Greenwood (9-1)- def. T.L. Hanna, 10-6; NEXT: vs. Laurens
5. Summerville (8-2)- lost to Beaufort, 31-28; NEXT:vs. Colleton County
6. Gaffney (7-3)- lost to Northwestern, 42-28; NEXT: vs. Spartanburg
7. Irmo (9-1)- def. Blythewood, 37-9; NEXT: at Dutch Fork
8. North Augusta (9-1)- def. Aiken, 26-13; NEXT: at Orangeburg-Wilkinson
9. Byrnes (7-3)- lost to Dorman, 21-14; NEXT: vs. Boiling Springs
T10. Clover (8-2)- def. Rock Hill, 35-14; NEXT: vs. Lancaster
T10. Beaufort (9-1)- def. Summerville, 31-28; NEXT: at Goose Creek

CLASS AAA
1. South Pointe (9-1)- def. York, 56-7; NEXT: vs. Eastside
2. Myrtle Beach (9-1)- def. North Myrtle Beach, 70-6; NEXT: vs. Brookland-Cayce
3. Fairfield Central (9-1)- def. Chester, 26-25 (OT); NEXT: vs. Berea
4. Belton Honea Path (10-0)- def. Walhalla, 63-6; NEXT: vs. Greer
5. Greenville (9-1)- def. Southside, 50-0; NEXT: vs. Fort Mill
6. Berkeley (7-3)- lost to Cane Bay, 14-7; NEXT: at Camden
7. Camden (9-1)- def. Marlboro County, 7-3; NEXT: vs. Berkeley
8. Bluffton (9-1)- def. Hilton Head, 37-0; NEXT: vs. Lakewood
9. Wade Hampton (9-1)-def. Eastside, 55-0; NEXT: vs. Fairfield Central
10. Clinton (7-3)- def. Chapman, 42-26; NEXT: vs. Daniel

Class AA
1. Dillon (10-0)- def. Waccamaw, 42-0; NEXT: vs. Bishop England
2. Central (10-0)- at Cheraw, 41-7; NEXT: vs. Gilbert
3. Timberland (10-0)- def. Kingstree, 49-0; NEXT: vs. Marion
4. Silver Bluff (9-1)- def. Barnwell, 24-0; NEXT: vs. Stall
5. Manning (7-3)- lost to Lake City, 13-6; NEXT: at Mullins
6. Woodland (8-2)- lost to Hanahan, 48-20; NEXT: vs. Swansea
7. Lake City (8-2)- def. Manning, 13-6; NEXT: vs. Loris
8. Strom Thurmond (8-2)- def. Batesburg-Leesville, 31-0; NEXT: vs. Lee Central
9. Palmetto (8-2)- lost to Pendleton, 7-6; NEXT: at Mid Carolina
10. Mid-Carolina (9-1)- def. Newberry, 27-7; NEXT: vs. Palmetto

Class A
1. Williston-Elko (9-1)- Idle; NEXT: vs. McCormick
2. Hemingway (10-0)- def. Lake View, 40-14; NEXT: vs. Allendale-Fairfax
3. Abbeville (9-1)- def. Dixie, 42-0; NEXT: vs. Blacksburg
4. Lamar (9-1)- at Timmonsville, 30-12; NEXT:vs. Ninety Six
5. Calhoun County (8-2)-def. Blackville-Hilda, 26-13; NEXT: vs. Landrum
6. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (10-0)- def. Whale Branch, 53-8; NEXT: vs. C.E. Murray
7. Scott’s Branch (8-2)- def. C.E. Murray, 32-14; NEXT:vs. Bethune-Bowman
8. Christ Church (10-0)- def. Landrum, 57-26; NEXT: vs.Ridge Spring-Monetta
9. Johnsonville (8-2)- def. Carvers Bay, 7-6; NEXT: at Ridgeland
10. Blackville-Hilda (7-3)- lost to Calhoun County, 26-13; NEXT: vs. Denmark-Olar

Palmetto State Roundup -Week 10 scores
A.C. Flora 54, Dreher 21
Abbeville 42, Dixie 0
Airport 36, Brookland-Cayce 14
Bamberg-Ehrhardt 53, Whale Branch 8
Baptist Hill 45, Lincoln 0
Beaufort 31, Summerville 28
Beaufort Academy 40, Summerville Faith Christian 16
Belton-Honea Path 63, Walhalla 6
Berea 48, Travelers Rest 7
Bethune-Bowman 30, Branchville 18
Bishop England 28, Andrews 21
Blacksburg 26, Southside Christian 14
Bluffton 37, Hilton Head 0
Boiling Springs 34, Hillcrest 0
Burke 20, Cross 6
Byrnes School 45, Dillon Christian 12
Calhoun County 26, Blackville-Hilda 13
Calhoun Falls 8, McCormick 7
Camden 7, Marlboro County 3
Cane Bay 14, Berkeley 7
Central 41, Cheraw 7
Chapin 24, Greer 17
Chesnee 17, Carolina High and Academy 13
Christ Church Episcopal 57, Landrum 26
Clarendon Hall Academy 50, Patrick Henry Academy 48, OT
Clinton 42, Chapman 26
Clover 35, Rock Hill 14
Creek Bridge 40, Latta 8
D.W. Daniel 14, Pickens 7
Denmark-Olar 53, North 14
Dillon 42, Waccamaw 0
Dorman 21, James F. Byrnes 14
Dutch Fork 34, Spring Valley 14
Easley 49, Woodmont 0
East Clarendon 30, Hannah-Pamplico 14
Emerald 13, Saluda 3
Fairfield Central 26, Chester 25, OT
Fort Dorchester 34, Wando 23
Fort Mill 35, Nation Ford 34
Fox Creek 28, Ridge Spring-Monetta 6
Garrett Academy of Technology 36, Academic Magnet 22
Georgetown 20, Wilson 13
Gilbert 34, Eau Claire 24
Goose Creek 56, Ashley Ridge 3
Great Falls 47, Lewisville 7
Greenville 50, Southside 0
Greenwood 10, T.L. Hanna 6
Hammond 35, Augusta Christian 0
Hanahan 48, Woodland 20
Hartsville 37, Darlington 0
Heathwood Hall 24, Cardinal Newman 21, OT
Hemingway 40, Lake View 14
Hilton Head Christian Academy 49, Hilton Head Prep 28
Holly Hill Academy 60, Carolina Academy 0
Hunter-Kinard-Tyler 56, Wagener-Salley 12
Indian Land 41, Buford 13
Irmo 37, Blythewood 9
Johnsonville 7, Carvers Bay 6, OT
King's Academy 50, Trinity Christian 20
Lake City 13, Manning 6
Lake Marion 18, Battery Creek 8
Lamar 30, Timmonsville 12
Laurens 14, Wren 7
Lee Central 34, Andrew Jackson 21
Lexington 69, Orangeburg-Wilkinson 20
Loris 36, Aynor 8
Lugoff-Elgin 28, South Florence 27
Mauldin 24, Riverside 0
Mid-Carolina 27, Newberry 7
Midland Valley 13, Lower Richland 2
Mullins 14, Marion 0
Myrtle Beach 70, North Myrtle Beach 6
Ninety Six 34, Ware Shoals 27
North Augusta 26, Aiken 13
North Central 32, C.A. Johnson 15
Northwestern 42, Gaffney 28
Northwood Academy 55, First Baptist 6
Pee Dee Academy 50, Williamsburg Academy 36
Pendleton 7, Palmetto 6
Porter-Gaud 44, Pinewood Prep 3
R.B. Stall 48, North Charleston 12
Richland Northeast 10, Ridge View 7
Ridgeland 19, Hardeeville 12
Scott's Branch 32, C.E. Murray 14
Seneca 40, West Oak 13
Silver Bluff 24, Barnwell 0
Socastee 44, St. James 14
South Pointe 56, York Comprehensive 7
Spartanburg 21, Lancaster 7
St. John's 29, Military Magnet Academy 0
St. Joseph 44, Whitmire 0
Stratford 41, James Island 8
Strom Thurmond 31, Batesburg-Leesville 0
Sumter 35, Conway 21
Swansea 30, Edisto 14
Thomas Heyward Academy 42, St. Andrews School 35
Thomas Sumter Academy 49, Florence Christian 7
Timberland 49, Kingstree 0
Union County 28, Blue Ridge 10
W. Wyman King Academy 36, Francis Hugh Wardlaw Academy 32
Wade Hampton (G) 55, Eastside 0
West Ashley 34, Colleton County 20
White Knoll 47, South Aiken 7
Woodruff 50, Broome 7

S.C. Prep Football Week 10 — It's the week we've all waited for

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

Byrnes' show a sign of unity prior to a game earlier this season. The Rebels will travel to Roebuck Friday night to face rival Dorman.

Trick or treat.
Undoubtedly, schedule makers in South Carolina knew what they were doing this year, arranging a slew of games sure to bring some clarity to the upcoming state playoffs.
Around the Palmetto State, programs in classes A-3A are preparing for week 10 - for many, one which will decide whether they proceed on or go home.
Preparing for the season, a quick look at the 2010 football schedule revealed the weekend just before Halloween would be a special one, revealing which teams are contenders or pretenders on the state -- and for all intents and purposes, national -- scene.
Here’s a look at what week 10 has in store:

Byrnes (7-2) at Dorman (9-0): The Cavaliers have not lost since Byrnes defeated them in the rivals’ regular season match-up in Duncan last year. Dorman likes to refer back to the last time the two met, however, a 28-17 win for the Class 4A state championship last December.
While not overly impressive, the Cavaliers have got the job done, coming into the rivalry game with an unblemished record. Analysts believed going into the year that head coach Dave Gutshall would utilize his passing game more in 2010, yet it has been his team’s running game leading the way, just as it did during Dorman’s title run last year.
Byrnes has found things a bit tougher than in previous seasons when winning seemed automatic for the team. It has also relied more on the running game this season, the Rebels personnel dictating more of a balanced offense under quarterback Zack Blair than the one under the direction of departed signal caller Chas Dodd.
In the end, Dorman is just a step ahead of Byrnes, the Cavaliers’ unsung defense bringing home the team’s third win in five games against the hated Rebels. PREDICTION: Dorman 24, Byrnes 16

Gaffney (7-2) at Northwestern (9-0): This time last year the Trojans walked into The Reservation in Gaffney as an underdog -- yet left with a 23-20 victory and the Region III-4A crown. Roles have reversed this year as the teams meet at Rock Hill’s District 3 Stadium, Northwestern branded as one of the nation’s elite teams, ranked No. 11 in the latest RivalsHigh 100 list of the country’s top high school teams nationally.
Meanwhile, the Indians follow not far behind, eagerly waiting for its chance to atone for last season’s loss on senior night.
The question for Gaffney is whether it can not only keep up with the Trojans, but also whether it can keep from turning the ball over in a big game. In contests earlier this season against nationally ranked Dorman and Greenwood, turnovers were the difference for the Indians, losing the games by a total deficit of 12 points.
Even if Gaffney does not turn the ball over, it’s hard to imagine anyone stopping Northwestern’s Justin Worley and the rest of the “Air Raid” offense, which has torched opponents all season. One team has held the Trojans under 35 points this season … that number should remain intact after Friday night. PREDICTION: Northwestern 38, Gaffney 28

Batesburg-Leesville (7-2) at Strom Thurmond (7-2): A conference title is at stake as these Region III-2A foes match-up on the gridiron. The Panthers roll into the game riding a seven game winning streak, aided by the return of quarterback K.J. Johnson three weeks into the season. However, it is the B-L defense which has led the way, using its strong defensive line and pressure packages to force opposing offenses into mistakes.
It will take a workmanlike effort to claim the conference championship against Strom Thurmond, which is averaging 30 points per game in addition to a stout defense of its own.
The Rebels have won five of the last six games in this series, and this year should be no different. PREDICTION: Strom Thurmond 31, Batesburg-Leesville 20

Predictions for other big contests around the Palmetto State:
Camden 21, Marlboro County 18
Beaufort 24, Summerville 17
Lexington 45, Orangeburg-Wilkinson 41
Irmo 35, Blythewood 17
Christ Church 37, Landrum 21

Storylines for Week 10 in the Palmetto State — Trick or Treat weekend

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

Northwestern players celebrate after a touchdown during a game against rival South Pointe earlier this season. The Trojans face quite the test Friday night as they host region foe Gaffney.

Class 4A
WEEK 10 STORYLINES:
— Is Byrnes still the beast of the Upstate?— Of course, Dorman will have a say in that, the winner of Friday's contest earning a 3-2 edge in the Spartanburg County rivals' last five meetings. This is the first match-up between the two since the Cavaliers dethroned the hated Rebels 28-17 last December in the state title game.
Byrnes has been a bit down this year and though Dorman is respected nationally needs a dominant showing in front of a national audience to prove analysts right for their lofty rating.
— Which defense will blink first — Gaffney or Northwestern?— Two of the state's most prolific offenses, this game is sure to be fun. Last year, the Trojans were able to leave The Reservation with a 23-20 victory and a region title to boot.
Fast forward a year later and the stakes are relatively the same, except for the venue — this year's contest taking place at Rock Hill's District Three Stadium.
—Clash of the Lowcountry Titans: Summerville at Beaufort—This region of the state has seemingly been dominated by the Green Wave for ages, and not to anyone's surprise the team has dominated headlines near in the Palmetto State's Lowcountry again this year. However, Beaufort has the opportunity to seize some of those lines with a win at home Friday night over Summerville, which hopes to add a healthy DeAngelo Henderson to its running game this week following a knee injury.

Class 3A
REGION CHAMPIONS: Belton-Honea Path (I-3A), Greenville (II-3A), Union County (III-3A), South Pointe (IV-3A), Hartsville (VI-3A), Myrtle Beach (VIII-3A)
WEEK 10 STORYLINES:
—Will anyone claim Region V-3A?— It will likely take a tiebreaker to decide the champion of this conference, as A.C. Flora, Airport and Midland Valley have shared losses amongst themselves while dominating the region's bottom feeders. Each team should be favored in its week 10 contest, hosting the likes of Dreher, Brookland-Cayce and Lower Richland.
—Can Berkeley win a region title in its first year in Class 3A?— The transition to Class 3A will be complete with a win vs. Cane Bay Friday night for the Stags, which have overcome its share of highs and lows in 2010. Last week, Berkeley survived against Bluffton to give itself the inside track to the Region VII-3A title.
A loss by the Stags opens the door back up for the Bobcats, who are hoping the state's tiebreaker rule comes back in its favor.
— How will Region III-3A shake out?— Other than Union County which has assured itself of a conference title, the last three spots in Region III-3A have yet to be determined. It seemed following a win over defending champion Clinton that Greer was poised to assume the conference's second position, but a shocking loss to Blue Ridge put it in a position where it must win at Chapin or possibly wind up at home for the postseason.
The Red Devils have the inside track to the playoffs, however, simply needing to defeat Chapman (2-7) to punch their ticket.

Class 2A
REGION CHAMPIONS: Woodruff (II-2A), Silver Bluff (V-2A), Timberland (VII-2A), Dillon (VIII-2A)
WEEK 10 STORYLINES:
—Can Palmetto flex its muscle in the Upstate by claiming the Region I-2A title?— No doubt, the Mustangs have at points this season seemed to be living a charmed life, escaping tough contests against the likes of Carolina and Chesnee, each time by five points. However, region for Pendleton has ruled the series of late, winning each of the teams' last five meetings, including a 30-23 win in 2008.
A victory by the Bulldogs creates a logjam atop Region I-2A, prompting league tiebreaker rules to come into effect should Chesnee handle business at Carolina.
— Will Batesburg-Lessville ride an eight game winning streak into the playoffs?— There is no doubt the Panthers will make yet another trip to the postseason, assuring itself no worse than a second place finish in Region III-2A. But B-L is a program defined by conference and state titles, so clearly the goal is to defeat Strom Thurmond on Friday night.
The Rebels have more at stake, however, as a loss could sink them to third place in conference play, likely putting the team on the road throughout the Class 2A playoffs.
—Woodland, Hanahan to meet with Region VI-2A on the line—Few teams have been able to shut down the Wolverines' attack, which has averaged 44 points a game while completely shutting down opposing offenses to the tune of 9 points per contest. Defeating such a dominant squad is the task of Hanahan's Charlie Patterson, whose team has played well aside from losses to Cane Bay and Berkeley.

Class A
REGION CHAMPIONS: Abbeville (I-A), Williston-Elko (IV-A), Bamberg-Ehrhardt (V-A)
WEEK 10 STORYLINES:
— Can Christ Church lock down one of the Upstate's top seeds?— The Cavaliers have been mighty dominant this year, scoring no less than 35 points in a game this season. Up next for them is region foe Landrum and the two squads' seemingly perennial conference title game.
Taking on the Cardinals following a tough, hard fought win over Blacksburg may be good for Christ Church, which needs all the home dates it can in order to assure itself of a long trip through the Class A playoffs — particularly with the titans of the classification fighting amongst themselves for supremacy in the Lower State.
— Will Chesterfield earn itself a region title? —Following a midseason that saw the Rams lose three consecutive games, the possibility of having a chance to win another conference crown seemed like it was not in reach. However, riding the wings of a four game winning streak, Chesterfield is on the brink of another region championship.
McBee is no slouch though, and should make things a bit tough for the Rams among Chesterfield County rivals.
— Is Hemingway really that good?— In my opinion, yes they are. Disposing of region rival Johnsonville and only allowing teams a total of 34 points this season, it should come as little surprise if the Tigers shut out a good Lake View squad.
As a matter of fact, I'd be more surprised if the Gators found a way to score.

S.C. Prep Writers Poll - Oct. 27

The Prep Writers’ Poll is voted on by Mark Holmes (Allendale Sun), Adam Regan (Anderson Independent Mail), Justin Jarrett (Beaufort Gazette/Island Packet), Phil Bowman (Charleston Post and Courier), Bob Castello (Greenville News), Matt Anderson (Greenwood Index-Journal), Shane Bowen (Myrtle Beach Sun News_, Kevin Melton (Spartanburg Herald-Journal), Barry Byers (Rock Hill Herald) and Akilah Nelson (The State).

CLASS 4A
1. Dorman (9-0)-vs. Byrnes
2. Northwestern (9-0)- vs. Gaffney
3. Goose Creek (9-0)- at Ashley Ridge
4. Greenwood (8-1)- vs. T.L. Hanna
5. Summerville (8-1)- at Beaufort
6. Gaffney (7-2)- at Northwestern
7. Irmo (8-1)- vs. Blythewood
8. North Augusta (8-1)- vs. Aiken
9. Byrnes (7-2)- at Dorman
T10. Clover (7-2)- vs. Rock Hill
T10. Beaufort (8-1)- vs. Summerville

CLASS 3A
1. South Pointe (8-1)- at York
2. Myrtle Beach (8-1)- vs. North Myrtle Beach
3. Fairfield Central (8-1)- at Chester
4. Belton Honea Path (9-0)- at Walhalla
5. Greenville (8-1)- at Southside
6. Berkeley (7-2)- vs. Cane Bay
7. Camden (8-1)- vs. Marlboro County
8. Bluffton (8-1)- vs. Hilton Head
9. Wade Hampton (8-1)-vs. Eastside
10. Clinton (6-3)- at Chapman

Class 2A
1. Dillon (9-0)- at Waccamaw
2. Central (9-0)- at Cheraw
3. Timberland (9-0)- vs. Kingstree
4. Silver Bluff (8-1)- vs. Barnwell
5. Manning (7-2)- at Lake City
6. Woodland (8-1)- at Hanahan
7. Lake City (7-2)- vs. Manning
8. Strom Thurmond (7-2)- vs. Batesburg-Leesville
9. Palmetto (8-1)- at Pendleton
10. Mid-Carolina (8-1)- vs. Newberry

Class A
1. Williston-Elko (9-1)- regular season complete
2. Hemingway (9-0)- at Lake View
3. Abbeville (8-1)- at Dixie
4. Lamar (8-1)- at Timmonsville
5. Calhoun County (7-2)-vs. Blackville-Hilda
6. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (9-0)- vs. Whale Branch
7. Scott’s Branch (7-2)- vs. C.E. Murray
8. Christ Church (9-0)- at Landrum
9. Johnsonville (7-2)- at Carvers Bay
10. Blackville-Hilda (7-2)- at Calhoun County

S.C. Prep Football -- Classes A & 2A Week 10 Stock Watch

CLASS 2A -- It seems this classification is defined by the play of two teams -- Central-Pageland(9-0) and Dillon (9-0). The Wildcats have prevailed by a single point in the past two state title games, and it seems the squads are again on a collision course.
Or are they? Here are a few teams who could spoil the party… or not.
STOCKS UP:
- Timberland (9-0): Likely Dillon’s stiffest test in the Lower State on its way to a three-peat. The Wolves have remained undefeated primarily due to the play of its defense, which has only given up 11 points per game.
In addition, Timberland is battle-tested, already having defeated region foes Manning and Lake City as well as the 2009 Class 3A champion Berkeley.
- Silver Bluff (8-1): Aside from a season opening loss to crosstown rival Aiken, it has been business as usual for the Bulldogs, reeling in eight consecutive wins and a Region V-2A title. Stout on defense and supremely balanced on offense, this squad has the potential to make things interesting in a loaded Lower State bracket.
- Lake City (7-2): Honestly, any squad that has a back as talented as South Carolina commitment Shon Carson has the potential to go a long way. While Timberland was able to put the clamps on the star running back, few defensive units have been able to do so during his stellar career, one which has him in the conversation as one of the state’s best backs this year.
Oh… they’re defense isn’t half bad either, giving up around 16 points per game.

STOCKS DOWN:
- Indian Land (8-1): After padding its record on mediocre competition, the Warriors were laid to waste by a dominant Central squad, losing by 26 points. While it was the two-time state runners-up it was playing, Indian Land must show more against tougher competition before being considered a legit threat to the Class 2A title.
- Mid Carolina (8-1): While it had run roughshod through competition through eight games, last week’s contest at Woodruff -- for a conference title, no less -- truly was a litmus test for the Rebels, one where they see where they are compared to other competition around the state. A 35 point loss proved rather telling, as Mid Carolina had no answer for the Wolverines fast paced offensive attack, one it is sure to see against opponents in the state playoffs.
WATCH OUT FOR:
-Batesburg-Leesville (7-2): This is typically the Panthers’ favorite time of year, and they are again proving this to be true, winning seven consecutive games going into its week 10 tilt with Strom Thurmond. No matter the record, this team is not one you want to see in the postseason.
- Woodruff (6-3): The record may not be the best, but just take a deeper look at who the Wolverines’ losses are to. Each of Woodruff’s three defeats are to Class 3A teams likely to qualify for their classifications’ state playoffs, with only one of the losses - a 14 point setback to Greenville - coming by more than a touchdown.
The Wolverines have virtually been a lock to score more than 30 points each game. If this continues, it could be hard for opponents to slow this team down.
CLASS A -- In the belief of sportswriters around the Palmetto State, there is one thing seemingly all of them can agree on -- yes, Williston-Elko (9-1) is that dominant. The defending Class A - Division II champion, only seven points separates the Blue Devils from an undefeated season.
Since that season opening loss to Strom Thurmond, Coach Dwayne Garrick’s squad has outscored opponents 513-85.

STOCKS UP:
- Bamberg-Ehrhardt (9-0): Since a surprising season opening victory over Class 4A’s Orangeburg-Wilkinson, the Red Raiders have plugged right along, flashing signs of brilliance as well as toughness and resiliency in close wins over Barnwell, Ridgeland, and most recently Allendale-Fairfax.
Last season, B-E was embarrassed in a second round matchup with Calhoun County 20-0.This year it hopes to extend its stay in postseason play.
- Hemingway (9-0): Arguably no defense has been more dominant than the Tigers, giving up a total of 34 points while racking up a 9-0 record. Playing in one of the classification’s toughest conferences, joined in Region 8-A by the likes of Johnsonville, Lake View and Carvers Bay, this squad has set itself apart, making it one to watch in coming weeks.
-Scott’s Branch (7-2): Since consecutive losses to Class 2A foes Manning and Woodland, no one has been able to stop the Eagles, who during their seven game winning streaked have beaten three-time defending Class A champion Chesterfield as well as region rival Lamar. The squad hopes to achieve a conference title Friday vs. C.E. Murray, paving its way for another run at a state title.

STOCKS DOWN:
-Chesterfield (6-3): It is hard to put a squad with three rings on this list. But following three straight losses midseason, it is even more difficult to tab the Rams as a contender for a fourth consecutive Class A title. While young and inexperienced heading into the playoffs, history is on Chesterfield’s side- head coach and former University of South Carolina quarterback Steve Taneyhill’s first championship team in 2007 lost three games that year.
Maybe he has a little magic in the bag… who knows?
- Christ Church (9-0): How can an undefeated team whose lowest margin of victory this season is five points, while scoring more than 40 points eight out of nine games in 2010 not getting the respect it deserves? The Cavaliers must earn respect in my opinion, having bowed out in the second round of the playoffs each of the past two years.

WATCH OUT FOR:
- Lamar (8-1): A one point loss to Scott’s Branch is the only thing keeping coach J.R. Boyd’s Silver Foxes out of the conversation as one of the front runners for a state title. However, I’m sure they like it that way.
At its best, Lamar can beat any team its classification has to offer.

S.C. Prep Football — Classes 3A & 4A Week 10 Stock Watch

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

South Pointe defenders deliver some punishment to a Fairfield Central runner during the teams' recent contest in Winnsboro. Both squads are among the favorites to bring home the Class 3A title in a few weeks.

Should I buy or sell? Or maybe just keep an eye on the stock?
For nine (or in Williston-Elko's case, 10) weeks we have kept a close eye on teams around the Palmetto State, particularly wondering how each would figure into their respective classification's playoff picture. With things beginning to clear up as the regular season draws to a close for classes 1A-3A, here's a look at the squads whose stock you should buy, sell, and a couple to keep a close eye on in the coming weeks.
Today I will begin with South Carolina's largest two classifications before taking a look at classes A & 2A later this week.

Class 4A— Of course, it is easy to look at the classification's three unbeaten squads— Dorman, Northwestern and Goose Creek — and believe they are just a notch ahead of their competition around the state. However, there are several squads who can deny each of the powerhouses of the championship they have so longed for.

STOCKS UP:
— Greenwood (8-1): Blessed with a stout defense (giving up only 12 points per game) and an effective running game, the Eagles have earned much respect in the Palmetto State in addition to attention from analysts nationwide. In all honesty, you remember few names outside of linebacker Quinton Backus and there's nothing too "sexy" or flashy about this squad— but they darn sure know how to win ball games.
Greenwood's only defeat being a 35-28 loss to defending Class 4A champion Dorman, the program is trying to add another title to its already extensive collection.
— Gaffney (7-2): Snake-bitten by turnovers in early season losses to Dorman and Greenwood, the Indians have won six straight going into this weekend's clash with region for Northwestern. Gaffney seems to have caught its stride on offense as quarterback DeEdward Burris seems to have formed quite a bond with receivers Quinshad Davis and Khris Brown. The team's defense has also improved as the season has went along, displaying such flashes of brilliance in a 31-0 shutout of Lancaster in which it gave up a total of 45 yards on the night.
— Summerville (8-1): Every year around this time, the chant begins down in the state's Lowcountry ... "Win one for Coach McKissick!" For the nation's all-time leader in wins for a high school football coach, this may be his best chance in a number of years.
Led by running back DeAngelo Henderson, the Green Wave have one of the more explosive offenses in the state. The question remains whether Summerville's defense can hold down some of the state's better offensive squads, many of whom also reside in the Big 16 with the Green Wave.

STOCKS DOWN:
— Wren (6-3): It would take quite a collapse in the Golden Hurricanes' final two contests for this team not to make the playoffs. While blessed with an explosive offense, do not expect this team to go far in the postseason if its defensive woes continue.
Wren has given up more than 30 points four times this season. In three out of those four contests, the Golden Hurricanes have walked away with a loss.
— Orangeburg-Wilkinson (7-2): Following a close loss to Class A power Bamberg-Ehrhardt to begin the year, the Bruins led by quarteback Cyril Davis were able to rattle off seven consecutive wins, a stretch in which the team did not score less than 36 points. Since jumping back into region play, however, O-W's defense has shown it cannot stand up to capable offensive schemes, the weakness particularly coming to fruition last Friday in a 65-42 loss to White Knoll in which the Bruins found themselves down 43 points at halftime.
They say defense wins championships; if so, it will take quite the four game stretch by Davis and his mates on offense to pull out a state title because right now they are the best defense O-W currently has.
— South Florence (7-2): It has been quite a breakthrough season for the Bruins, the team finding itself a mere victory away from earning the Region VI-4A title. While earning a conference title is admirable, doing so in one of the state's weakest regions likely will not equate to much postseason success for South Florence, only defeating four opponents with winning records, the most impressive of those last week's 41-31 win over Conway, a team only a game above .500.
I'm not saying this squad cannot make a run, you just won't see me placing much stock in the Bruins doing so.

WATCH OUT FOR:
— Irmo (8-1): Led by one of the state's best running games, the Yellow Jackets have won seven in a row after a week one defeat to nationally ranked Goose Creek. While defense is somewhat an issue, if Irmo is allowed to dictate the clock by continuing to feed the ball to Dawan Scott and others in the Yellow Jackets' stable of running backs, this team could surprise some people en route to a December date down the road at Williams-Brice Stadium.
— Clover (7-2): Do not sleep on the Eagles. Though falling in defeat to state powerhouses and region foes Gaffney and Northwestern, Clover did do its part to give each of the teams' defenses fits using its brand of the Wing-T offense. The difficult part of the schedule is seemingly in the Eagles' rear-view mirror, as it will take a team with offensive might similar to that of the Trojans or Indians to knock this squad out of the playoffs.

Class 3A— In my opinion, the best of the state's classifications from top to bottom. At least eight teams believe they have the ingredients to hoist the championship trophy at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia on the first Saturday night in December. Here are a few of those.

STOCKS UP:
— South Pointe (8-1): The Stallions, aside from a mistake-prone third quarter against rival Northwestern in the season's opening week, has been dominant — particularly on the defensive side of the ball. South Pointe showcased how important that side of the ball is in its success over then-No. 3 Fairfield Central, holding one of the classification's more prolific offenses to under 200 yards of total offense and only seven points.
It does help to have the nation's top prospect on your defensive line as well, Jadeveon Clowney.
— Myrtle Beach (8-1): Like their contemporaries South Pointe in the Upper State, the Seahawks find themselves minutes from being undefeated as well. Playing most of the season without starting quarterback Everett Golson, backup signal caller Mitchell Campbell has been effective in his stead, throwing for 2,067 yards and 28 touchdowns.
Myrtle Beach's defense has also been a forced to be reckoned with, particularly of late, holding region opponents to a total of 21 points in four games.
— Fairfield Central (8-1): While the Griffins were on the wrong end of a 17-7 defeat at the hands of South Pointe, few can argue the team gave their rivals from Rock Hill all they could handle. Fairfield Central should be equally as potent when the playoffs roll around... that is unless its old nemesis Clinton winds up in the same bracket; then things could become quite interesting.

STOCKS DOWN:
— Chester (6-3): The Cyclones feasted upon mediocre competition early on the 2010 season, jumping out to a 3-0 mark before meeting with Class 2A's Central—Pageland, a contest in which they gave up a fourth quarter lead and eventually lost, 36-28. Since then, things have not quite been the same for Chester, losing the following week to nationally ranked Mallard Creek (N.C.), followed by sub par efforts against Nation Ford ( a win nevertheless) and a 55-17drubbing at the hands of South Pointe.
Beating quality teams is what champions are made of. I see little of that in the Cyclones' resume.
— Clinton (6-3): You hate to put the defending state champions in a category like this, but losing two consecutive region games to the likes of Greer and Union County is cause for concern for the Red Devils. However, last season following a mediocre region slate in which Clinton finished fourth in its conference, the team found a way to win five straight games and the Class 3A championship.
Can it happen again? Of course. But if that's the case, the Red Devils sure like to take the long road instead of the easy one.
—Marlboro County (6-3): There are few teams more of a mystery in the Palmetto State than the Bulldogs. Blessed with an abundance of talent on both sides of the ball, it seems this team has simply not been able to put it together, the low points coming in consecutive weeks in losses to Conway and Dillon.
Last week's 24-14 defeat at the hands of Hartsville put a conference title in doubt, and with a road test at Camden this Friday, Marlboro County could be looking at several road games en route to a trip to Columbia and the Class 3A title game.

WATCH OUT FOR:
—Union County (6-3): No squad circles the wagons late in the season like the Yellow Jackets, who again after a rough start have fought their way to a region championship. Since beginning the season 0-3, Union Co. has rattled off six straight wins, averaging 33 points a game during that stretch. Getting the Clinton bug off their backs also was big for the Yellow Jackets, losing two close contests last season to the Red Devils, including a 17-14 loss in the state playoffs.
— Greenville (8-1): Few squads in Class 3A can light up the scoreboard in the fashion the Red Raiders can, averaging 33 points per game this season. But the biggest contributor the Greenville's success this year has to be its defense, only allowing more than 10 points once this year — that being a 33-31 setback at Gaffney in September.

S.C. Prep Football - Week 10 schedule

Games 7:30 p.m. unless noted

Thursday’s Games
Carolina Forest at West Florence
Columbia at Keenan
Crescent at Liberty

Friday’s Games
Abbeville at Dixie
Aiken at North Augusta
Andrew Jackson at Lee Central
Andrews at Bishop England
Baptist Hill at Lincoln
Barnwell at Silver Bluff
Batesburg-Leesville at Strom Thurmond
Belton-Honea Path at Walhalla
Berea at Travelers Rest
Bethune-Bowman at Branchville
Blackville-Hilda at Calhoun County
Blue Ridge at Union County
Blythewood at Irmo
Brookland Cayce at Airport
Burke at Cross
Byrnes at Dorman
C.A. Johnson at North Central
C.E. Murray at Scott’s Branch
Cane Bay at Berkeley
Central at Cheraw
Chesnee at Carolina Academy
Christ Church at Landrum
Clinton at Chapman
Crestwood at Lakewood
Daniel at Pickens
Denmark-Olar at North
Dillon at Waccamaw
Dreher at A.C. Flora
Dutch Fork at Spring Valley
East Clarendon at Hannah-Pamplico
Eastside at Wade Hampton (G)
Edisto at Swansea
Estill at Allendale-Fairfax
Fairfield Central at Chester, 8 p.m.
Fort Dorchester at Wando
Fort Mill at Nation Ford
Fox Creek at Ridge Spring-Monetta
Gaffney at Northwestern
Garrett at Academic Magnet
Georgetown at Wilson
Gilbert at Eau Claire
Goose Creek at Ashley Ridge
Great Falls at Lewisville
Greenville at Southside
Greer at Chapin
Hanna at Greenwood
Hardeeville at Ridgeland
Hartsville at Darlington
Hemingway at Lake View
Hillcrest at Boiling Springs
Hilton Head at Bluffton
Hunter-Kinard-Tyler at Wagener-Salley
Indian Land at Buford
James Island at Stratford
Johnsonville at Carvers Bay
Kingstree at Timberland
Lake Marion at Battery Creek
Lamar at Timmonsville, 6 p.m.
Lancaster at Spartanburg
Latta at Creek Bridge
Loris at Aynor
Lower Richland at Midland Valley
Manning at Lake City
Marion at Mullins
Marlboro County at Camden
Mauldin at Riverside
McBee at Chesterfield
McCormick at Calhoun Falls Charter
Military Magnet at St. John’s
Newberry at Mid-Carolina
Ninety Six at Ware Shoals
North Myrtle Beach at Myrtle Beach
Orangeburg-Wilkinson at Lexington
Palmetto at Pendleton
Richland Northeast at Ridge View
Rock Hill at Clover
Saluda at Emerald
Socastee at St. James
South Aiken at White Knoll
South Florence at Lugoff-Elgin
South Pointe at York
Southside Christian at Blacksburg
Stall at North Charleston
Summerville at Beaufort
Sumter at Conway
Wade Hampton (H) at Pelion
West Ashley at Colleton County
West-Oak at Seneca
Whale Branch at Bamberg-Ehrhardt
Whitmire at St. Joseph’s
Woodland at Hanahan
Woodmont at Easley
Woodruff at Broome
Wren at Laurens

How did the rank teams fare? ... Week 9 scores

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

A trio of Dorman defenders corral a Greenwood ball carrier during the two teams' contest earlier this season in Roebuck. Both teams continued their quest toward winning their respective region titles last week with victories.


The Prep Writers’ Poll is voted on by Cam Huffman (Aiken Standard), Adam Regan (Anderson Independent Mail), Justin Jarrett (Beaufort Gazette), Bob Castello (Greenville News), Shane Bowen (Sun News), Matt Anderson (Greenwood Index-Journal), Barry Byers (Rock Hill Herald), Kevin Melton (Herald-Journal), Mark Holmes (Allendale Sun) and Akilah Nelson (The State)

Class 4A
1. Dorman (9-0)-- def. J.L. Mann, 35-7; NEXT: vs. Byrnes
2. Northwestern (9-0)-- def. Clover, 42-21; NEXT: vs. Gaffney
3. Goose Creek (9-0)--def. Wando, 23-8; NEXT: at Ashley Ridge
4. Greenwood (8-1)-- def. Mauldin, 41-20; NEXT: vs. T.L. Hanna
5. Summerville (8-1)-- def. Ashley Ridge, 35-0; NEXT: at Beaufort
6. Gaffney (7-2)-- def. Lancaster, 31-0; NEXT: at Northwestern
7. Irmo (8-1)-- def. Richland Northeast, 38-0; NEXT: vs. Blythewood
8. North Augusta (8-1)-- def. South Aiken, 35-12; NEXT: vs. Aiken
9. Clover (7-2)-- lost to Northwestern, 42-21; NEXT: vs. Rock Hill
10. Byrnes (7-2)-- def. Hillcrest, 77-7; NEXT at Dorman

Class 3A
1. South Pointe (8-1)-- def. Chester, 55-17; NEXT: at York
2. Myrtle Beach (8-1)-- def. Georgetown, 65-14; NEXT: vs. North Myrtle Beach
3. Belton-Honea Path (9-0)-- def. Seneca, 27-24; NEXT: at Walhalla
4. Greenville (8-1)-- def. Berea, 20-7; NEXT: at Southside
5. Fairfield Central (8-1)-- def. Fort Mill, 28-0; NEXT: at Chester
6. Berkeley (7-2)-- def. Bluffton, 26-25; NEXT: vs. Cane Bay
7. Marlboro County (6-3)-- lost to Hartsville, 24-14; NEXT: at Camden
8. Camden (8-1)-- def. Lakewood, 20-0; NEXT: vs. Marlboro County
9. Bluffton (8-1)--lost to Berkeley, 26-25; NEXT: vs. Hilton Head
T10. Wade Hampton (8-1)-- def. Southside, 36-8; NEXT: vs. Eastside
T10. Clinton (6-3)-- lost to Union County, 37-14; NEXT: at Chapman

Class 2A
1. Dillon (9-0)-- def. Loris, 35-6; NEXT: at Waccamaw
2. Central (9-0)-- def. Andrew Jackson, 45-0; NEXT: at Cheraw
3. Timberland (9-0)-- def. Bishop England, 24-17; NEXT: vs. Kingstree
4. Silver Bluff (8-1)-- def. Pelion, 35-13; NEXT: vs. Barnwell
5. Mid-Carolina (8-1)-- lost to Woodruff, 42-7; NEXT: vs. Newberry
6. Manning (7-2)--def. Andrews, 14-7; NEXT: at Lake City
7. Woodland (8-1)-- def. Garrett Academy, 32-7; NEXT: at Hanahan
8. Lake City (7-2)-- def. Kingstree, 45-7; NEXT: vs. Manning
9. Palmetto (8-1)-- def. Crescent, 35-14; NEXT: at Pendleton
10. Strom Thurmond (7-2)-- def. Gilbert, 35-0; NEXT: vs. Batesburg-Leesville

Class A
1. Williston-Elko (9-1)-- def. Fox Creek, 50-0; NEXT: TBD
2. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (8-1)--def. Allendale-Fairfax, 13-0; NEXT: vs. Whale Branch
3. Hemingway (9-0)-- def. Green Sea Floyds, 56-14; NEXT: at Lake View
4. Abbeville (8-1)--def. Ninety Six, 17-10; NEXT: at Dixie
5. Calhoun County (7-2)--def. Ridge Spring-Monetta, 47-0; NEXT: vs. Blackville-Hilda
6. Lamar (8-1)-- def. East Clarendon, 48-19; NEXT: at Timmonsville
7. Scott’s Branch (7-2)--def. Hannah-Pamplico, 40-0; NEXT: vs. C.E. Murray
8. Christ Church (9-0)--def. Whitmire, 54-0; NEXT: at Landrum
9. Blackville-Hilda (7-2)-- def. Hunter-Kinard-Tyler, 21-8; NEXT: at Calhoun County
10. Johnsonville (7-2)-- def. Latta , 40-8; NEXT: at Carvers Bay

Palmetto State Roundup - Week 9
A.C. Flora 21, Lower Richland 20
Abbeville 17, Ninety Six 10
Academic Magnet 21, North Charleston 20
Airport 45, Dreher 28
Augusta Christian 34, Pinewood Prep 0
Bamberg-Ehrhardt 13, Allendale-Fairfax 0
Baptist Hill 20, Cross 14
Barnwell 9, Swansea 6
Batesburg-Leesville 42, Keenan 12
Beaufort 45, Colleton County 10
Belton-Honea Path 27, Seneca 24
Ben Lippen 35, Cardinal Newman 20
Berkeley 26, Bluffton 25
Bible Baptist 32, St. Paul’s Academy 0
Blackville-Hilda 21, Hunter-Kinard-Tyler 8
Blue Ridge 42, Greer 35
Boiling Springs 48, Riverside 20
Broome 24, Saluda 10
Burke 37, Military Magnet Academy 0
Byrnes School 48, Richard Winn Academy 6
C.E. Murray 6, Timmonsville 0
Calhoun County 47, Ridge Spring-Monetta 0
Camden 20, Lakewood 0
Cane Bay 49, Lake Marion 22
Carolina Academy 14, Liberty 0
Carolina Forest 22, Sumter 19
Carvers Bay 34, Creek Bridge 0
Central 45, Andrew Jackson 0
Chapin 31, Chapman 21
Cheraw 14, Buford 0
Chesnee 34, Pendleton 22
Chesterfield 57, Great Falls 10
Christ Church 54, Whitmire 0
Clarendon Hall 61, Beaufort Academy 28
D.W. Daniel 42, West Oak 0
Darlington 32, Crestwood 25
Dillon 35, Loris 6
Dillon Christian 13, St. John’s Christian 10
Dorman 35, J.L. Mann 7
Dutch Fork 43, Blythewood 13
Easley 23, Laurens 14
Eastside 43, Travelers Rest 29
Eau Claire 21, Columbia 18
Fairfield Central 28, Fort Mill 0
Florence Christian 34, Williamsburg Academy 20
Gaffney 31, Lancaster 0
Goose Creek 23, Wando 8
Greenville 20, Berea 7
Greenwood 41, Mauldin 20
Hammond 42, Heathwood Hall 0
Hanahan 38, R.B. Stall 6
Hardeeville 48, Branchville 13
Hartsville 24, Marlboro County 14
Hemingway 56, Green Sea Floyds 14
Hilton Head 21, Battery Creek 8
Hilton Head Christian 41, Thomas Heyward 14
Hilton Head Prep 53, First Baptist 8
Indian Land 45, Lee Central 12
Irmo 38, Richland Northeast 0
James Island 28, Fort Dorchester 12
Johnsonville 40, Latta 8
Lake City 45, Kingstree 7
Lamar 48, East Clarendon 19
Landrum 25, Blacksburg 22
Lexington 42, Aiken 27
Manning 14, Andrews 7
Marion 36, Waccamaw 14
McBee 48, North Central 12
McCormick 62, Dixie 42
Midland Valley 27, Brookland-Cayce 24, 3OT
Mullins 43, Aynor 7
Myrtle Beach 65, Georgetown 14
Newberry 28, Emerald 21
North Augusta 35, South Aiken 12
Northwestern 42, Clover 21
Palmetto 35, Crescent 14
Patrick Henry 90, Summerville Faith 20
Pickens 38, Walhalla 21
Ridgeland 33, Estill 16
Robert E. Lee Academy 21, Pee Dee Academy 6
Scott’s Branch 40, Hannah-Pamplico 0
Silver Bluff 35, Pelion 13
South Florence 41, Conway 31
South Pointe 55, Chester 17
Southside Christian 25, St. Joseph 8
Spring Valley 10, Ridge View 7
Spring Valley 10, Ridge View 7
St. Andrews 35, Northwood Academy 13
St. James 28, North Myrtle Beach 14
Stratford 27, West Ashley 24, OT
Strom Thurmond 35, Gilbert 0
Summerville 35, Ashley Ridge 0
Thomas Sumter 48, Calhoun Academy 0
Timberland 24, Bishop England 17
Union County 37, Clinton 14
W.W. King 47, Greenwood Christian 0
Wade Hampton (G) 36, Southside 8
Wade Hampton (H) 26, Edisto 0
Ware Shoals 35, Calhoun Falls 6
Westside 22, Woodmont 14
Whale Branch 48, Bethune-Bowman 22
White Knoll 65, Orangeburg-Wilkinson 42
Williston-Elko 50, Fox Creek 0
Wilson 21, Socastee 10
Wilson Hall 13, Orangeburg Prep 0
Woodland 32, Garrett Academy of Technology 0
Woodruff 42, Mid-Carolina 7
Wren 20, T.L. Hanna 17, 2OT
York Comprehensive 35, Nation Ford 26

S.C. Prep Writers Release Top 10 - Oct. 21

The Prep Writers’ Poll is voted on by Cam Huffman (Aiken Standard), Adam Regan (Anderson Independent Mail), Justin Jarrett (Beaufort Gazette), Bob Castello (Greenville News), Shane Bowen (Sun News), Matt Anderson (Greenwood Index-Journal), Barry Byers (Rock Hill Herald), Kevin Melton (Herald-Journal), Mark Holmes (Allendale Sun) and Akilah Nelson (The State)

Class 4A
1. Dorman (8-0)-- at J.L. Mann
2. Northwestern (8-0)-- vs. Clover
3. Goose Creek (8-0)--vs. Wando
4. Greenwood (7-1)-- at Mauldin
5. Summerville (7-1)-- vs. Ashley Ridge
6. Gaffney (6-2)-- at Lancaster
7. Irmo (7-1)-- at Richland Northeast
8. North Augusta (7-1)-- at South Aiken
9. Clover (7-1)-- at Northwestern
10. Byrnes (6-2)-- vs. Hillcrest

Class 3A
1. South Pointe (7-1)-- vs. Chester
2. Myrtle Beach (7-1)-- at Georgetown
3. Belton-Honea Path (8-0)-- vs. Seneca
4. Greenville (7-1)-- at Berea
5. Fairfield Central (7-1)-- vs. Fort Mill
6. Berkeley (6-2)-- at Bluffton
7. Marlboro County (6-2)-- vs. Hartsville
8. Camden (7-1)-- at Lakewood
9. Bluffton (8-0)--vs. Berkeley
T10. Wade Hampton (7-1)-- at Southside
T10. Clinton (6-2)-- vs. Union County

Class 2A
1. Dillon (8-0)-- at Loris
2. Central (8-0)-- vs. Andrew Jackson
3. Timberland (8-0)-- at Bishop England
4. Silver Bluff (7-1)-- at Pelion
5. Mid-Carolina (8-0)-- at Woodruff
6. Manning (6-2)--vs. Andrews
7. Woodland (7-1)-- at Garrett Academy
8. Lake City (6-2)-- at Kingstree
9. Palmetto (7-1)-- at Crescent
10. Strom Thurmond (6-2)-- at Gilbert

Class A
1. Williston-Elko (8-1)-- at Fox Creek
2. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (7-1)--vs. Allendale-Fairfax
3. Hemingway (8-0)-- vs. Green Sea Floyds
4. Abbeville (7-1)--at Ninety Six
5. Calhoun County (6-2)--vs. Ridge Spring-Monetta
6. Lamar (7-1)-- vs. East Clarendon
7. Scott’s Branch (6-2)--vs. Hannah-Pamplico
8. Christ Church (8-0)--at Whitmire
9. Blackville-Hilda (6-2)-- at Hunter-Kinard-Tyler
10. Johnsonville (6-2)-- at Latta

Doing whatever it takes -- South Pointe defense leads way in tough region win over Fairfield Central

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

South Pointe's Gerald Dixon tries to corral Fairfield Central running back Jimmy Walker in the pivotal region contest in Winnsboro last week. The Stallions were able to earn a hard fought win and a share of first place in Region IV-3A, 17-7.

WINNSBORO, S.C. -- South Pointe head coach Bobby Carroll could not have described last Friday night’s contest with region foe Fairfield Central any better -- “it was nothing short of a 12 round fight.”
A haymaker in the form of a 25 yard pass from backup quarterback Devin Pearson to Montay Crockett gave Carroll’s Stallions the cushion they needed late in the fourth quarter at Winnsboro’s E.K. McClendon Stadium, allowing the team’s stout defense to turn out the lights on the Griffins, defeating them 17-7.
“This team does not care about statistics, how many touchdowns one of them has or the number of shutouts are achieved,” Carroll said. “All we care about is what the scoreboard says at the end of the game.”
Facing a high octane Fairfield Central offense which had not previously scored less than 26 points this season, South Pointe yielded 212 yards on the night, holding Griffins’ star quarterback Danny Miller to 10- of-22 passing for 57 yards and an interception.
The theft of Miller, which occurred on Fairfield Central’s first series, led to the Stallions getting on the board first in the game, a 19 yard scamper by all-American Jadeveon Clowney.
Clowney, who is regarded as one of the nation’s top prospects for his exploits on the defensive side of the ball, proved he was not a “one trick pony” by toting the ball twice on the drive -- a 4th-and- 1 play and the touchdown run.
“One of our backs separated his shoulder early, so Clowney was able to step in and be effective for us,” Carroll said.
South Pointe would add a field goal by Landon Ard in the second quarter to take a 10-0 lead into the locker room at intermission.
Following a Stallions punt after the break, Fairfield Central’s running game cranked it up a notch, the legs of Griffins tailback Jimmy Walker eventually getting into the end zone from six yards out.
On several more occasions Fairfield Central would get into South Pointe territory during the second half, however, none of the drives would come away with points, much to the disappointment of head coach Reggie Kennedy.
“That’s a good defense over there, one of the best in the state; but we were able to run a bit in the second half and wear them down a bit,” Kennedy said. “But we knew this game would come down to who made the most plays. It just so happened they made more plays than us.”
Carroll also was not happy about his squad leaving points off the board, and more specifically, putting the ball on the ground.
“This was a tough, but sloppy ball game for us,” Carroll said. “To give up four fumbles and still win against a team this good is a tribute to how good our defense played (Friday night).”
South Pointe improved to 7-1 in 2010, and more importantly 3-0 in Region IV-3A going into a contest with Chester which will decide a region champion. Fairfield Central hopes to take care of business Friday against Fort Mill before finishing up the regular season at the rival Cyclones.

S.C. Prep Football - Week 9 schedule

Games 7:30 p.m. unless noted

Thursday’s Games
Lewisville at C.A. Johnson
Lugoff-Elgin at West Florence
Spartanburg at Rock Hill

Friday’s Games
A.C. Flora at Lower Richland
Abbeville at Ninety Six
Airport at Dreher
Allendale-Fairfax at Bamberg-Ehrhardt
Andrew Jackson at Central
Andrews at Manning
Ashley Ridge at Summerville
Battery Creek at Hilton Head
Berkeley at Bluffton
Blackville-Hilda at Hunter-Kinard-Tyler
Blue Ridge at Greer
Blythewood at Dutch Fork
Boiling Springs at Riverside
Branchville at Hardeeville
Buford at Cheraw
C.E. Murray at Timmonsville, 6 p.m.
Calhoun Falls Charter at Ware Shoals
Camden at Lakewood
Carolina Academy at Liberty
Chapin at Chapman
Chester at South Pointe
Christ Church at Whitmire
Clover at Northwestern
Colleton County at Beaufort
Conway at South Florence
Creek Bridge at Carvers Bay
Cross at Baptist Hill
Daniel at West-Oak
Darlington at Crestwood
Dillon at Loris
Dixie at McCormick
Dorman at J.L. Mann
Easley at Laurens
East Clarendon at Lamar
Eau Claire at Columbia
Edisto at Wade Hampton (H)
Emerald at Newberry
Fort Mill at Fairfield Central, 8 p.m.
Gaffney at Lancaster
Great Falls at Chesterfield
Green Sea-Floyds at Hemingway
Greenville at Berea
Greenwood at Mauldin
Hanahan at Stall
Hanna at Wren
Hannah-Pamplico at Scott’s Branch
Hartsville at Marlboro County
Hillcrest at Byrnes
Irmo at Richland Northeast
James Island at Fort Dorchester
Johnsonville at Latta
Keenan at Batesburg-Leesville
Lake City at Kingstree
Lake Marion at Cane Bay
Landrum at Blacksburg
Lee Central at Indian Land
Lexington at Aiken, 8 p.m.
Mid-Carolina at Woodruff
Midland Valley at Brookland-Cayce
Mullins at Aynor
Myrtle Beach at Georgetown
North Augusta at South Aiken
North Central at McBee
North Charleston at Academic Magnet
Orangeburg-Wilkinson at White Knoll
Palmetto at Crescent
Pendleton at Chesnee
Ridge Spring-Monetta at Calhoun County
Ridgeland at Estill
Saluda at Broome
Seneca at Belton-Honea Path
Silver Bluff at Pelion
Southside Christian at St. Joseph’s
Spring Valley at Ridge View
St. James at North Myrtle Beach
St. John’s at Lincoln
Stratford at West Ashley
Strom Thurmond at Gilbert
Sumter at Carolina Forest
Swansea at Barnwell
Timberland at Bishop England
Travelers Rest at Eastside
Union County at Clinton
Waccamaw at Marion
Wade Hampton (G) at Southside
Wagener-Salley at Denmark-Olar
Walhalla at Pickens
Wando at Goose Creek
Westside at Woodmont
Whale Branch at Bethune-Bowman
Williston-Elko at Fox Creek
Wilson at Socastee
Woodland at Garrett
York at Nation Ford

Palmetto State Roundup- Week 8

A.C. Flora 28, Midland Valley 21, OT
Abbeville 55, Calhoun Falls 6
Andrews 57, Kingstree 0
Aynor 32, Waccamaw 29
Beaufort 42, Ashley Ridge 7
Beaufort Acad. 66, Ridge Christian 6
Ben Lippen 14, Laurence Manning Acad. 3
Berkeley 36, Lake Marion 12
Blacksburg 36, Whitmire 8
Blackville-Hilda 46, Denmark-Olar 19
Bluffton 63, Battery Creek 14
Blythewood 24, Richland Northeast 7
Boiling Springs 49, Wren 20
Burke 50, Lincoln 6
Calhoun Acad. 41, Williamsburg Acad. 20
Camden 35, Darlington 25
Cane Bay 37, Hilton Head 7
Central 47, Indian Land 21
Chapin 17, Blue Ridge 14
Cheraw 36, Andrew Jackson 14
Chester 21, Nation Ford 15
Christ Church Episcopal 54, St. Joseph 7
Clover 23, Spartanburg 7
Conway 41, Lugoff-Elgin 23
Dillon 45, Marion 6
Dorchester Acad. 35, Byrnes School 9
Dorman 42, Mauldin 24
Dutch Fork 14, Ridge View 10
Eastside 14, Southside 12
Estill 52, Whale Branch 24
Fort Dorchester 20, West Ashley 16
Garrett Acad. of Technology 17, R.B. Stall 14
Goose Creek 50, James Island 21
Green Sea Floyds 39, Creek Bridge 14
Greenville 50, Travelers Rest 0
Greer 40, Clinton 35
Hanahan 56, North Charleston 0
Hardeeville 20, Allendale-Fairfax 6
Hartsville 21, Crestwood 14
Hemingway 40, Johnsonville 0
Hillcrest 38, Riverside 14
Hilton Head Christian Acad. 41, Northwood Acad. 21
Hilton Head Prep 67, Thomas Heyward Acad. 28
Holly Hill Acad. 14, Colleton Prep 13
Irmo 42, Spring Valley 20
James F. Byrnes 54, J.L. Mann 0
Jefferson Davis Acad. 40, W. Wyman King Acad. 16
Lake View 28, Latta 0
Lamar 46, Hannah-Pamplico 0
Landrum 41, Southside Christian 7
Laurens 32, Westside 7
Lewisville 35, North Central 26
Lexington 49, South Aiken 21
Manning 20, Bishop England 0
Marlboro County 42, Lakewood 13
Mullins 12, Loris 8
Myrtle Beach 55, St. James 0
Newberry 21, Broome 14
Ninety Six 28, Dixie 21
Northwestern 34, Lancaster 13
Palmetto 14, Chesnee 9
Patrick Henry Acad. 42, James Island Christian 20
Pee Dee Acad. 21, Florence Christian 12
Pelion 24, Barnwell 22
Pendleton 49, Liberty 20
Pinewood Prep 14, Heathwood Hall 11
Ridgeland 56, Bethune-Bowman 0
Scott’s Branch 30, Timmonsville 24
Seneca 41, Walhalla 7
Silver Bluff 37, Edisto 7
Socastee 52, Georgetown 34
South Florence 38, Carolina Forest 14
South Pointe 17, Fairfield Central 7
St. Andrews School 41, First Baptist 20
Stratford 37, Colleton County 0
Summerville 28, Wando 19
T.L. Hanna 14, Easley 3
Thomas Sumter Acad. 49, Robert E. Lee Acad. 0
Timberland 25, Lake City 14
Union County 35, Chapman 10
Wade Hampton (G) 32, Berea 28
Wagener-Salley 32, North 8
Ware Shoals 48, McCormick 28
West Florence 14, Sumter 10
Williston-Elko 41, Calhoun County 25
Woodland 68, Academic Magnet 0
Woodruff 35, Saluda 14

How did the ranked teams fare? (Week 8)

Class 4A
1. Dorman (8-0)-- def. Mauldin, 42-28; NEXT: at J.L. Mann
2. Northwestern (8-0)-- def. Lancaster, 34-13; NEXT: vs. Clover
3. Goose Creek (8-0)-- def. James Island, 50-21; NEXT: vs. Wando
4. Summerville (7-1)-- def. Wando 29-19; NEXT: vs. Ashley Ridge
5. Greenwood (7-1)-- def. Woodmont, 49-0; NEXT: at Mauldin
6. Gaffney (6-2)-- def. Rock Hill, 28-3; NEXT: at Lancaster
7. North Augusta (7-1)-- def. White Knoll 21-20; NEXT: at South Aiken
8. Irmo (7-1)-- def. Spring Valley, 42-20; NEXT: at Richland Northeast
9. Byrnes (6-2)-- def. J.L. Mann, 54-0; NEXT: vs. Hillcrest
10. Clover (7-1)-- def. Spartanburg 23-7; NEXT: at Northwestern

Class 3A
1. South Pointe (7-1)-- def. Fairfield Central, 17-7; NEXT: vs. Chester
2. Myrtle Beach (7-1)-- def. St. James, 55-0; NEXT: at Georgetown
3. Fairfield Central (7-1)-- lost to South Pointe, 17-7; NEXT: vs Fort Mill
4. Belton-Honea Path (8-0)-- def. Daniel, 34-28; NEXT: vs. Seneca
5. Greenville (7-1)-- def. Travelers Rest, 50-0; NEXT: at Berea
6. Clinton (6-2)-- lost to Greer, 40-35; NEXT: vs. Union County
7. Berkeley (6-2)-- def. Lake Marion, 36-12; NEXT: at Bluffton
8. Camden (7-1)-- def. Darlington, 35-25; NEXT: at Lakewood
9. Bluffton (8-0)-- def. Battery Creek, 63-14; NEXT: vs. Berkeley
10. Wade Hampton (7-1)-- def. Berea, 32-28; NEXT: at Southside

Class 2A
1. Dillon (8-0)-- def. Marion, 45-6; NEXT: at Loris
2. Central (8-0)-- def. Indian Land, 47-21; NEXT: vs. Andrew Jackson
3. Timberland (8-0)-- def. Lake City, 25-14; NEXT: at Bishop England
4. Silver Bluff (7-1)-- def. Edisto, 37-7; NEXT: at Pelion
5. Lake City (6-2)--lost to Timberland, 25-14; NEXT: at Kingstree
6. Manning (6-2)-- def. Bishop England, 20-0; NEXT: vs. Andrews
7. Woodland (7-1)-- def. Academic Magnet, 68-0; NEXT: at Garrett Academy
8. Mid-Carolina (8-0)-- def. Emerald, 42-14; NEXT: at Woodruff
T9. Indian Land (7-1)-- lost to Central, 47-21; NEXT: vs. Lee Central
T9. Palmetto (7-1)-- def. Chesnee, 14-9; NEXT: at Crescent

Class A
1. Williston-Elko (8-1)-- def. Calhoun County, 41-25; NEXT: at Fox Creek
2. Calhoun County (6-2)-- lost to Williston-Elko, 41-25; NEXT: vs. Ridge Spring-Monetta
3. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (7-1)-- def. Branchville, 34-7; NEXT: vs. Allendale-Fairfax
4. Hemingway (8-0)-- def. Johnsonville, 40-0; NEXT: vs. Green Sea Floyds
5. Lamar (7-1)-- def. Hannah-Pamplico, 46-0; NEXT: vs. East Clarendon
6. Abbeville (7-1)-- def. Calhoun Falls, 55-6; NEXT: at Ninety Six
7. Scott’s Branch (6-2)-- def. Timmonsville, 30-24; NEXT: vs. Hannah-Pamplico
8. Christ Church (8-0)-- def. St. Joseph's, 54-7; NEXT: at Whitmire
9. Johnsonville (6-2)-- lost to Hemingway, 40-0; NEXT: at Latta
10. Blackville-Hilda (6-2)-- def. Denmark-Olar, 46-19; NEXT: at Hunter-Kinard-Tyler

The S.C. Prep Writers’ Poll is compiled by The State and voted on by Cam Huffman (Aiken Standard), Adam Regan (Anderson Independent Mail), Justin Jarrett (Beaufort Gazette), Bob Castello (Greenville News), Phil Bowman (Post & Courier), Shane Bowen (The Sun News), Matt Anderson (Index-Journal), Mark Holmes (Allendale Sun) and Akilah Nelson (The State)

Fab Five Games — Week 8

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

South Pointe's Jadeveon Clowney (left) and the rest of the Stallion's defensive unit will get quite the test Friday, facing off against undefeated Fairfield Central and its balanced offensive attack.

South Pointe (6-1) at Fairfield Central (7-0): Top prospect Jadeveon Clowney has undoubtedly been worth the hype this season, running roughshod through opposing defenses and helping the Stallions get off to a 6-1 start.
His team will aim to prove it is worthy of its No. 1 ranking in Class 3A as it travels to undefeated region rival Fairfield Central. The Griffins will do their best to figure out the South Pointe defense using a balanced attack managed by quarterback Danny Miller, who is 80 of 117 for 1,583 yards and 18 touchdowns this year.
Since giving up 69 points in consecutive games to Northwestern and Independence (N.C.), the Stallions have been rather stout on defense, giving up 27 points in their last four games. Expect some scoring from the Griffins, but can they score enough to defeat a talented, proud defense the caliber of South Pointe? They will have to prove it to me. PREDICTION: South Pointe 24, Fairfield Central 14

Calhoun County (6-1) at Williston-Elko (7-1): Arguably no one has been more dominant in this season than the Blue Devils, who have outscored opponents 422-67 this season en route to earning the respect of the state’s prep football writers, who have tabbed the team No.1 in Class A.
Equally impressive has been their region rival Calhoun County, which since a week one loss to Marlboro County has reeled off six consecutive wins.
This one could come down to the final possession as both squads sport talented senior signal callers in Williston-Elko’s Tamyn Garrick and the Saints’ Shamier Jeffery. The team that plays the best defense will undoubtedly win this one. PREDICTION: Williston-Elko 35, Calhoun County 31

Central (7-0) at Indian Land (7-0): More than an undefeated regular season slate is at stake in this one, as both teams are jockeying for a region title and positioning best suiting them for a run at the Class 2A championship.
The Eagles have lost the last two Class 2A state title games by a single point to Dillon. Little if anything has got in the way of the team this season for Central en route to a 7-0 record, its closest contest an impressive 36-28 come from behind win over Chester. Expect more of the same in this one, as the Warriors simply do not have the firepower to keep up with a team on a mission. PREDICTION: Central 42, Indian Land 17

Lake City (6-1) at Timberland (7-0): It seems with every week the Wolves are faced with another challenge … and they pass it with flying colors. Tested last week in going to region rival Manning, Timberland had just enough offense to get past the Monarchs, 10-8.
This week Lake City pays the Wolves a visit in a game sure to decide the Region 7-AA title. The teams seem to be rather even, playing at a high level at the right time. Lake City is a bit more explosive on offense, however, and should have enough to just get past a stout Timberland defensive unit. PREDICTION: Lake City 20, Timberland 16

Spartanburg (3-4) at Clover (6-1): Despite running up and down the field at will against Gaffney, Clover came away from The Reservation with little to show for their effort, losing its first game of the season 41-27. The Eagles will attempt to get on track against Spartanburg, which limped out of the gate in its region opener, a 35-12 loss to nationally-ranked Northwestern.
No one has been able to rein in Clover’s Wing-T attack this year, and this one should be no different. PREDICTION: Clover 35, Spartanburg 17

S.C. prep writers release Top 10 - Oct. 14

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

Dorman continues its stranglehold atop Class 4A this week, getting the nod from South Carolina's prep football writers. However, Northwestern and Goose Creek continue their charge toward the classification's top spot.

Class 4A
1. Dorman (7-0)-- vs. Mauldin
2. Northwestern (7-0)-- at Lancaster
3. Goose Creek (7-0)-- at James Island
4. Summerville (6-1)-- at Wando
5. Greenwood (6-1)-- at. Woodmont
6. Gaffney (5-2)-- vs. Rock Hill
7. North Augusta (6-1)-- vs. White Knoll
8. Irmo (6-1)-- at Spring Valley
9. Byrnes (5-2)-- vs. J.L. Mann
10. Clover (6-1)-- vs. Spartanburg

Class 3A
1. South Pointe (6-1)-- at Fairfield Central
2. Myrtle Beach (6-1)-- at St. James
3. Fairfield Central (7-0)-- vs. South Pointe
4. Belton-Honea Path (7-0)-- at Daniel
5. Greenville (6-1)-- vs. Travelers Rest
6. Clinton (6-1)-- at Greer
7. Berkeley (5-2)-- at Lake Marion
8. Camden (6-1)-- vs. Darlington
9. Bluffton (7-0)-- at Battery Creek
10. Wade Hampton (6-1)-- vs. Berea

Class 2A
1. Dillon (7-0)-- vs. Marion
2. Central (7-0)-- at Indian Land
3. Timberland (7-0)-- vs. Lake City
4. Silver Bluff (6-1)-- at Edisto
5. Lake City (6-1)--at Timberland
6. Manning (5-2)-- vs. Bishop England
7. Woodland (6-1)-- vs. Academic Magnet
8. Mid-Carolina (7-0)-- vs. Emerald
T9. Indian Land (7-0)-- vs. Central
T9. Palmetto (6-1)-- vs. Chesnee

Class A
1. Williston-Elko (7-1)-- vs. Calhoun County
2. Calhoun County (6-1)-- at Williston-Elko
3. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (6-1)-- at Branchville
4. Hemingway (7-0)-- at Johnsonville
5. Lamar (6-1)-- vs. Hannah-Pamplico
6. Abbeville (6-1)-- vs. Calhoun Falls
7. Scott’s Branch (5-2)-- at Timmonsville
8. Christ Church (7-0)-- vs. St. Joseph's
9. Johnsonville (6-1)-- vs. Hemingway
10. Blackville-Hilda (5-2)-- vs. Denmark-Olar

The S.C. Prep Writers’ Poll is compiled by The State and voted on by Cam Huffman (Aiken Standard), Adam Regan (Anderson Independent Mail), Justin Jarrett (Beaufort Gazette), Bob Castello (Greenville News), Phil Bowman (Post & Courier), Shane Bowen (The Sun News), Matt Anderson (Index-Journal), Mark Holmes (Allendale Sun) and Akilah Nelson (The State)

S.C.'s Top Performers (Week 7) — Quarterbacks steal show

Photo by Larry Hilliard/ The Gaffney Ledger

Gaffney senior quarterback DeEdward Burris was virtually unstoppable in his team's contest against Clover, scoring five times in dropping the Eagles from the ranks of the unbeaten in the Indians' 41-27 win.

Mitch Campbell, Myrtle Beach: Stepping in for injured Seahawks' starting quarterback Everett Golson, the senior again made the most of his playing time in Myrtle Beach's 62-7 win over Socastee. Campbell was nearly perfect in the game, going 10-for-12 for 246 yards and five touchdowns for the Seahawks.
Daiquone Ford, Myrtle Beach: Not to be outdone, Ford also had a game to remember vs. Socastee, rushing for 163 years on four carries, including a 99-yard touchdown run in the 62-7 romp. He nearly reached the century mark for reception yards in the contest, catching three passes for 96 yards and a touchdown grab.
Robert Joseph, Northwestern: Joseph continues to be Trojans' quarterback Justin Worley's top target in the team's "Air Raid" offense, last week catching six balls for 122 yards in Northwestern's 35-12 win over region for Spartanburg. The scoring receptions were from 22, 86 and 20 yards.
Justin Worley, Northwestern: You can only describe the Tennessee commitment in one word: special. Worley, though not showing his typical pinpoint accuracy, went 19 for 34 for 321 yards in the Trojans' 35-12 win over Spartanburg last week.
In addition, the Northwestern senior signal caller set a new state record against the Vikings, eclipsing Byrnes standout quarterback Willy Korn's mark (123) by throwing his 124th touchdown pass in the contest.
Shamier Jeffery, Calhoun County: The beginning of a good weekend for Calhoun County kids with the last name of "Jeffery," Saints' quarterback Shamier Jeffery made his mark last Friday night in passing for 338 yards on 21 of 27 passing in the teams' 50-0 drubbing of Fox Creek. He also passed for five touchdowns in the game.
Cyril Davis, Orangeburg-Wilkinson: The Bruins' offense remained hot under the direction of Davis, who was 15 of 28 for 361 yards and four touchdowns in O-W's 36-21 victory over South Aiken.
DeEdward Burris, Gaffney: The dual threat under center for the Indians wreaked havoc all night on the Clover defense, scoring three times with his legs and twice with his arm to give the Eagles their first loss of the season, 41-27. Burris ran for 129 yards in the game, while throwing for 248 more.

How did the rank teams fare? ... Week 9 scores

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

Three Dorman defenders corral a Greenwood ball carrier during the two teams' contest earlier this season in Roebuck. Both teams continued their quest toward winning their respective region titles last week with victories.

The Prep Writers’ Poll is voted on by Cam Huffman (Aiken Standard), Adam Regan (Anderson Independent Mail), Justin Jarrett (Beaufort Gazette), Bob Castello (Greenville News), Shane Bowen (Sun News), Matt Anderson (Greenwood Index-Journal), Barry Byers (Rock Hill Herald), Kevin Melton (Herald-Journal), Mark Holmes (Allendale Sun) and Akilah Nelson (The State)

Class 4A
1. Dorman (9-0)-- def. J.L. Mann, 35-7; NEXT: vs. Byrnes
2. Northwestern (9-0)-- def. Clover, 42-21; NEXT: vs. Gaffney
3. Goose Creek (9-0)--def. Wando, 23-8; NEXT: at Ashley Ridge
4. Greenwood (8-1)-- def. Mauldin, 41-20; NEXT: vs. T.L. Hanna
5. Summerville (8-1)-- def. Ashley Ridge, 35-0; NEXT: at Beaufort
6. Gaffney (7-2)-- def. Lancaster, 31-0; NEXT: at Northwestern
7. Irmo (8-1)-- def. Richland Northeast, 38-0; NEXT: vs. Blythewood
8. North Augusta (8-1)-- def. South Aiken, 35-12; NEXT: vs. Aiken
9. Clover (7-2)-- lost to Northwestern, 42-21; NEXT: vs. Rock Hill
10. Byrnes (7-2)-- def. Hillcrest, 77-7; NEXT at Dorman

Class 3A
1. South Pointe (8-1)-- def. Chester, 55-17; NEXT: at York
2. Myrtle Beach (8-1)-- def. Georgetown, 65-14; NEXT: vs. North Myrtle Beach
3. Belton-Honea Path (9-0)-- def. Seneca, 27-24; NEXT: at Walhalla
4. Greenville (8-1)-- def. Berea, 20-7; NEXT: at Southside
5. Fairfield Central (8-1)-- def. Fort Mill, 28-0; NEXT: at Chester
6. Berkeley (7-2)-- def. Bluffton, 26-25; NEXT: vs. Cane Bay
7. Marlboro County (6-3)-- lost to Hartsville, 24-14; NEXT: at Camden
8. Camden (8-1)-- def. Lakewood, 20-0; NEXT: vs. Marlboro County
9. Bluffton (8-1)--lost to Berkeley, 26-25; NEXT: vs. Hilton Head
T10. Wade Hampton (8-1)-- def. Southside, 36-8; NEXT: vs. Eastside
T10. Clinton (6-3)-- lost to Union County, 37-14; NEXT: at Chapman

Class 2A
1. Dillon (9-0)-- def. Loris, 35-6; NEXT: at Waccamaw
2. Central (9-0)-- def. Andrew Jackson, 45-0; NEXT: at Cheraw
3. Timberland (9-0)-- def. Bishop England, 24-17; NEXT: vs. Kingstree
4. Silver Bluff (8-1)-- def. Pelion, 35-13; NEXT: vs. Barnwell
5. Mid-Carolina (8-1)-- lost to Woodruff, 42-7; NEXT: vs. Newberry
6. Manning (7-2)--def. Andrews, 14-7; NEXT: at Lake City
7. Woodland (8-1)-- def. Garrett Academy, 32-7; NEXT: at Hanahan
8. Lake City (7-2)-- def. Kingstree, 45-7; NEXT: vs. Manning
9. Palmetto (8-1)-- def. Crescent, 35-14; NEXT: at Pendleton
10. Strom Thurmond (7-2)-- def. Gilbert, 35-0; NEXT: vs. Batesburg-Leesville

Class A
1. Williston-Elko (9-1)-- def. Fox Creek, 50-0; NEXT: TBD
2. Bamberg-Ehrhardt (8-1)--def. Allendale-Fairfax, 13-0; NEXT: vs. Whale Branch
3. Hemingway (9-0)-- def. Green Sea Floyds, 56-14; NEXT: at Lake View
4. Abbeville (8-1)--def. Ninety Six, 17-10; NEXT: at Dixie
5. Calhoun County (7-2)--def. Ridge Spring-Monetta, 47-0; NEXT: vs. Blackville-Hilda
6. Lamar (8-1)-- def. East Clarendon, 48-19; NEXT: at Timmonsville
7. Scott’s Branch (7-2)--def. Hannah-Pamplico, 40-0; NEXT: vs. C.E. Murray
8. Christ Church (9-0)--def. Whitmire, 54-0; NEXT: at Landrum
9. Blackville-Hilda (7-2)-- def. Hunter-Kinard-Tyler, 21-8; NEXT: at Calhoun County
10. Johnsonville (7-2)-- def. Latta , 40-8; NEXT: at Carvers Bay

Palmetto State Roundup - Week 9
A.C. Flora 21, Lower Richland 20
Abbeville 17, Ninety Six 10
Academic Magnet 21, North Charleston 20
Airport 45, Dreher 28
Augusta Christian 34, Pinewood Prep 0
Bamberg-Ehrhardt 13, Allendale-Fairfax 0
Baptist Hill 20, Cross 14
Barnwell 9, Swansea 6
Batesburg-Leesville 42, Keenan 12
Beaufort 45, Colleton County 10
Belton-Honea Path 27, Seneca 24
Ben Lippen 35, Cardinal Newman 20
Berkeley 26, Bluffton 25
Bible Baptist 32, St. Paul’s Academy 0
Blackville-Hilda 21, Hunter-Kinard-Tyler 8
Blue Ridge 42, Greer 35
Boiling Springs 48, Riverside 20
Broome 24, Saluda 10
Burke 37, Military Magnet Academy 0
Byrnes School 48, Richard Winn Academy 6
C.E. Murray 6, Timmonsville 0
Calhoun County 47, Ridge Spring-Monetta 0
Camden 20, Lakewood 0
Cane Bay 49, Lake Marion 22
Carolina Academy 14, Liberty 0
Carolina Forest 22, Sumter 19
Carvers Bay 34, Creek Bridge 0
Central 45, Andrew Jackson 0
Chapin 31, Chapman 21
Cheraw 14, Buford 0
Chesnee 34, Pendleton 22
Chesterfield 57, Great Falls 10
Christ Church 54, Whitmire 0
Clarendon Hall 61, Beaufort Academy 28
D.W. Daniel 42, West Oak 0
Darlington 32, Crestwood 25
Dillon 35, Loris 6
Dillon Christian 13, St. John’s Christian 10
Dorman 35, J.L. Mann 7
Dutch Fork 43, Blythewood 13
Easley 23, Laurens 14
Eastside 43, Travelers Rest 29
Eau Claire 21, Columbia 18
Fairfield Central 28, Fort Mill 0
Florence Christian 34, Williamsburg Academy 20
Gaffney 31, Lancaster 0
Goose Creek 23, Wando 8
Greenville 20, Berea 7
Greenwood 41, Mauldin 20
Hammond 42, Heathwood Hall 0
Hanahan 38, R.B. Stall 6
Hardeeville 48, Branchville 13
Hartsville 24, Marlboro County 14
Hemingway 56, Green Sea Floyds 14
Hilton Head 21, Battery Creek 8
Hilton Head Christian 41, Thomas Heyward 14
Hilton Head Prep 53, First Baptist 8
Indian Land 45, Lee Central 12
Irmo 38, Richland Northeast 0
James Island 28, Fort Dorchester 12
Johnsonville 40, Latta 8
Lake City 45, Kingstree 7
Lamar 48, East Clarendon 19
Landrum 25, Blacksburg 22
Lexington 42, Aiken 27
Manning 14, Andrews 7
Marion 36, Waccamaw 14
McBee 48, North Central 12
McCormick 62, Dixie 42
Midland Valley 27, Brookland-Cayce 24, 3OT
Mullins 43, Aynor 7
Myrtle Beach 65, Georgetown 14
Newberry 28, Emerald 21
North Augusta 35, South Aiken 12
Northwestern 42, Clover 21
Palmetto 35, Crescent 14
Patrick Henry 90, Summerville Faith 20
Pickens 38, Walhalla 21
Ridgeland 33, Estill 16
Robert E. Lee Academy 21, Pee Dee Academy 6
Scott’s Branch 40, Hannah-Pamplico 0
Silver Bluff 35, Pelion 13
South Florence 41, Conway 31
South Pointe 55, Chester 17
Southside Christian 25, St. Joseph 8
Spring Valley 10, Ridge View 7
Spring Valley 10, Ridge View 7
St. Andrews 35, Northwood Academy 13
St. James 28, North Myrtle Beach 14
Stratford 27, West Ashley 24, OT
Strom Thurmond 35, Gilbert 0
Summerville 35, Ashley Ridge 0
Thomas Sumter 48, Calhoun Academy 0
Timberland 24, Bishop England 17
Union County 37, Clinton 14
W.W. King 47, Greenwood Christian 0
Wade Hampton (G) 36, Southside 8
Wade Hampton (H) 26, Edisto 0
Ware Shoals 35, Calhoun Falls 6
Westside 22, Woodmont 14
Whale Branch 48, Bethune-Bowman 22
White Knoll 65, Orangeburg-Wilkinson 42
Williston-Elko 50, Fox Creek 0
Wilson 21, Socastee 10
Wilson Hall 13, Orangeburg Prep 0
Woodland 32, Garrett Academy of Technology 0
Woodruff 42, Mid-Carolina 7
Wren 20, T.L. Hanna 17, 2OT
York Comprehensive 35, Nation Ford 26