Football Fridays in Georgia

This week, Douglas County visits nationally ranked Buford at The Beard, plus a look at Sprayberry at Sequoyah. Coaches Johnny White and Bryant Appling share how they build trust, manage distractions, and outwork the moment. Rabun County's Rance Gillespie takes you home to Tiger for a program built on place, people, and pride.

In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, you explore two of the state's most legendary high school football rivalries: Calhoun vs. Cartersville and Thomasville vs. Thomas County Central. Coaches share what makes these matchups unforgettable, from the history and tradition to the pride each community brings to Friday night lights. Tune in to discover why Georgia high school football rivalries are among the fiercest in the nation.

This week on the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, you will hear the stories behind one of the state's most passionate rivalries as Warner Robins and Northside prepare for battle. Coaches, players, and fans share what this matchup means to their schools and community. The episode also highlights standout performances, first wins, and the moments that make high school football unforgettable across Georgia.

The Football Fridays in Georgia podcast welcomes GHSA Executive Director Dr. Tim Scott for his annual visit to kick off the season. He joins Jon and Hannah to discuss reclassification, the new transfer eligibility rules, the rapid growth of girls' flag football, and how NIL is shaping high school sports in Georgia.

This episode features conversations with four standout Georgia high school football coaches about the drive, discipline, and community pride that fuel their teams. Ware County's Jason Strickland, Appling County's Tucker Pruitt, Fitzgerald's Wes Tankersley, and Irwin County's Larry Harold share how they build a winning culture, inspire their players on and off the field, and preview their big match-ups this week. 

This special All-Star episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast previews the high school football season just five weeks out. Jon and Hannah are joined by top journalists from across the state to break down major coaching changes, rising programs, and key regional storylines. The episode also explores broader issues like GHSA reclassification and what it means for teams statewide.

This episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast spotlights the explosive growth of girls' flag football across the state, from new high school teams to emerging college scholarships. Coaches from Pope and Southeast Bulloch share how their programs are setting the standard and reshaping perceptions of the sport.

GPB's Make That Kid an Offer is a segment featured during the Football Fridays in Georgia halftime show that highlights under-the-radar Georgia high school football players who excel on the field and in the classroom but may be overlooked in college recruiting, aiming to boost their visibility and help them secure scholarship offers. This podcast episode highlights just a few of the student-athletes who have signed scholarships after being featured on MTKAO. 

The Georgia high school football coaching landscape has seen significant shifts. In this episode, Jon and Hannah talk with three of the biggest names on the move. New Northside Warner Robins coach Boone Williams, Dalton's Chris Prewett, and Prince Avenue Christian's Jon Richt discuss their transitions, challenges, and visions for their storied programs.

This episode highlights the 2025 GHSA Basketball Championships and features interviews with coaches Chaz Clark of Butler, George Brown of Savannah High, and Kassie Scott of Cherokee Bluff. Clark discusses his team's victory and what it means to the Butler community, Brown talks about the challenges of playing a familiar opponent in the championship game, and Scott shares her experience as a head coach with a husband who is also a head coach.

National Signing Day has evolved, but its impact remains profound for athletes and coaches alike. Jon and Hannah break down the shift from the traditional signing day to the early signing period, with insights from high school and college coaches navigating the recruiting process. The episode also features the inspiring story of Brookwood kicker Caitlyn Soroka and the challenges she faced while navigating the college football recruitment process. 

In the final Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast episode of the season, Jon Nelson is joined by the FFIG All-Stars to break down all 12 GHSA State Championship games. Four flag football championships, eight tackle football championships, and one final 2024 episode. 

The 2024 Georgia High School Football Championship matchups are set! The Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast All-Stars join Jon and Hannah to preview the upcoming championship games. Plus, who is Gunner Stockton? Rabun County Head Coach Mike Davis joins the podcast to fill us in on UGA's backup QB. 

Join Jon and Hannah as they break down the big upsets from the state quarterfinals and the Ju Ju Lewis injury news. Plus, they take a look forward to the semi-finals with Fitzgerald head coach Tucker Pruitt and Buford head coach Bryant Appling. Both teams are no strangers to the championships, the Purple Hurricane have been in the finals 3 of the past 4 seasons and Buford is… well… Buford. 

Happy Thanksgiving Football Week! On this episode, Hannah and Jon talk with Langston Hughes head coach Boone Williams and Thomasville head coach Jonathan DeLay. Both coaches are very familiar with Thanksgiving Day practices and making a run at a title. They share their thoughts on keeping players focused, holiday practice traditions, and stuffing vs. dressing.   

The GHSA Playoffs are in full swing. On this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, Hannah and Jon recap week one, catch up with Ware County head coach Jason Strickland and Houston County head coach Jeremy Edwards, and preview the next round.

The Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast All-Stars join Jon Nelson to preview the 2024 playoffs. Join Todd Holcomb of the Georgia High School Football Daily, Jack Patterson of WRBL - Columbus, Marvin James of 13WMAZ in Macon, Phil Jones of ITG Next, and the voice of Football Fridays in Georgia, Matt Stewart as they share their views on the 2024 GHSA playoff picture. 

As the playoff picture starts to come into focus, Jon and Hannah welcome two region champion coaches to the podcast: Appling County's Jordan Mullis, the Region 3-2A champion, and Colquitt County's Sean Calhoun, the Region 1-6A champion.

In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, the team explores the intense final weeks of the high school football regular season, with playoffs just around the corner. While some region champions have been crowned, other parts of the state are facing mathematical complications to see who will reign in their respective region. Special guests include Lowndes Vikings head coach Adam Carter and Fannin County head coach Chad Cheatham.

In this action-packed episode, we cover Richmond Hill's stunning upset over Valdosta, Roswell's region title push, and other key matchups around the state. Plus, you may discover your new favorite restaurant after suggestions from the Richmond Hill and Roswell coaches and hosts, Hannah and Jon.     

This episode of Football Fridays in Georgia explores the latest developments in the GHSA, including safety initiatives, competitive balance discussions, and schedule changes. In-depth interviews with coaches Shane Queen and Matt Burleson provide insights into the challenges and rewards of coaching in the new six-classification system and navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

A Georgia high school football coaching legend, Alan Chadwick of Marist, joins the podcast to discuss navigating this year's erratic season. Plus, we'll hear from Irwin County head coach Casey Soliday and find out the impact of Hurricane Helene. After a week of upsets, this episode highlights the chaos that is the 2024 Georgia high school football season. 

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, what is the plan for making up football games? What will happen to the playoff schedule? Dr. Hines and Dr. Scott of the GHSA join Jon and Hannah to answer those questions and more. In this episode we learn more about NIL in Georgia, the future of reclassification, and how the GHSA is dealing with the chemical fire in Rockdale County. 

In this episode, you'll get a closer look at the Camden County Wildcats, led by head coach Travis Roland. Hear about their impressive start to the season and their upcoming showdown against Valdosta. And we preview the highly anticipated Grayson Rams vs. Newton Rams matchup with Grayson head coach Santavious Bryant. This showdown will determine the top spot in their region. Plus, thanks to Hannah Goodin, you will learn the meaning to the phrase "it was literally like a soup in my crockpot."

It is time for region play! Plus, we have interviews with Creekside Seminoles head coach Maurice Dixon and Peach County Trojans head coach Marquis Westbrook.

Many teams across Georgia travel 250 miles or more to play road games. As a coach, how do you deal with five-hour road trips? On this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, Jon Nelson is joined by Valdosta Head Coach Shelton Felton and Toombs County Head Coach Buddy Martin to discuss how their teams win on the road.     

Last Friday, Mary Persons in Forsyth, GA hosted a team from British Columbia, Canada. In this episode, Jon Nelson talks with New Westminster Offensive Coordinator Darnell Sikorski and Mary Persons Head Coach Brian Nelson to discover how this match-up came to be. Plus, we get an update on Bremen's injured QB, Carson Kimball, and a preview of Douglas Co v. Langston Hughes. 

Ahead of the Rome vs. Carrolton game this weekend, Jon and Hannah talk with Trojans head coach Joey King about coaching one of the top players in the state, Juju Lewis. Then, Savannah Christian head coach Baker Woodward talks making a comeback in 1A with the Raiders.   

Week one is in the books! Join Jon and Hannah as they break down the big upsets and even bigger wins. Hear from Cartersville's Head Coach, Conor Foster, and preview this week's match-up with Rockmart. And Gordon Central's Head Coach, Lenny Gregory, joins the podcast to celebrate a huge win! 

The Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast All-Stars join Jon and Hannah to preview the 2024 season. Reclassification has shaken up a lot of regions across the state with some teams set to face multiple defending state champions in region play. Todd Holcomb of the Georgia High School Football Daily, Phil Jones of ITG Next, Jack Patterson and Tyler Redmond of WRBL - Columbus, Marvin James of 13WMAZ in Macon, and the voice of Football Fridays in Georgia, Matt Stewart give their predictions for the 2024 GHSA football season. 

On this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast Jon and Hannah are joined by coaches from all over the state to talk pre-season preparations, championship hopes, and their dealings with Hurricane (Tropical Storm) Debby.  Plus, find out which region is Georgia's "high school SEC."

In the final episode of the summer for Beyond the Lights we take a look at one of the most important aspects of high school football in Georgia: the food. Is the famous Billy Burger at Toombs County the best concession stand treat in all of the Peach State?  Some people think so. 

Two new head coaches face new challenges in South Georgia: David Shores at Brantley County and John Mohring at Wayne County. Both coaches, coming from assistant positions at other schools, are excited about their new teams. Shores, looking to build on Brantley County's tradition, emphasizes explosive offense and physical defense. Mohring, stepping up to a larger program at Wayne County from Savannah Country Day, welcomes the opportunity to develop players within a strong football culture, acknowledging the pressure of higher expectations.

Join host Hannah Goodin on this episode of Football Fridays in Georgia: Beyond the Lights as she delves into football health and safety with Dr. Stephen Brown, an orthopedic and sports medicine specialist from the Rome Orthopedic Center. Dr. Brown, with his extensive background as a former football player and team physician for top teams, shares crucial insights on injury prevention, the importance of hydration and acclimatization, and the benefits of cross-training. He also highlights the advancements in helmet safety, concussion protocols, and offers valuable advice for coaches, parents, and athletes on maintaining open communication about injuries. Plus, essential tips to keep young athletes safe on the field during the high-risk summer months.

In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast: Jon and Hannah talk with Clinch County head coach Jim Dickerson, fresh and energized after a brief retirement and back to continue his impressive winning streak with the Panthers. He'll tell us what it's like returning to the Coach's chair in Homerville after two consecutive state championships. Also: safety tips for a fun-filled Summer, and more!

In this episode, we sit down with John Koon, a veteran play-by-play announcer (and mayor of Soperton, Georgia!) With nearly 43 years of broadcasting experience, John shares his unique journey, from his early days at Treutlen High School to becoming the voice of the Vidalia Indians. Discover the highs and lows of calling games, the evolution of high school sports, and the passion that drives him. Tune in for wild football tales, insights into game day preparations, and the secrets behind crafting a captivating broadcast. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a budding broadcaster, this episode is packed with inspiration and wisdom straight from the heart of Georgia's football fields.

In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, hosts Hannah Goodin and Jon Nelson dive into the significance of high school football camps. They discuss how these camps help players and coaching staffs refine their skills, foster team bonding, and build competitive spirit ahead of the regular season. Special guest Roswell Head Coach Chris Prewett explains the value of camps, from preparing athletes for unexpected situations to building camaraderie among teammates. This heartfelt episode also touches on Roswell High School's annual 7-on-7 tournament, which honors the legacy of former quarterback Robbie Roper, who tragically died in 2021.

In this episode, host Hannah Goodin delves into the world of high school football recruiting through the eyes of Amy Hecklinski, mother of 2023 GPB Offensive Player of the Year Jeremy Hecklinski. Amy discusses the unique challenges and triumphs of raising a scholarship-level athlete, offering insights into the intense pressures, critical decisions, and pivotal moments that come with guiding a young athlete from high school to college football. Learn about the sacrifices, support, and values that shape a future football star, along with the role that family plays in nurturing talent. Whether you're a parent, coach, or sports enthusiast, this episode provides a compelling look at the journey from Friday night lights to the collegiate gridiron. Tune in for an inspiring and honest conversation about football, family, and the road to success.

In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, Jon Nelson and Hannah Goodin discuss the exciting world of high school football coaching transitions. They catch up with head coaches Maurice Freeman, Jeff Littleton, and Kurt Williams as they embark on new journeys and face new challenges. 

Hannah Goodin delves into the world of high school football officiating with special guest James Arnold. With 38 years of officiating experience under his belt, James offers a unique perspective on what it takes to be a football official in Georgia. From handling pressure-packed moments on the field to navigating video review protocols, James shares invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of officiating. Discover how officials are trained, evaluated, and constantly striving to improve, all while ensuring the integrity of the game. Gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role officials play in high school sports and learn how you can support them for a better game-day experience for everyone involved. 

In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, host Jon Nelson explores the GHSA basketball championships. Coaches Jerry Hunter and Dr. Jeffrey Martin discuss the challenges and community impact of their teams' successes, while guest coach Geoffrey Pierce shares insights into the Grayson Rams' historic journey to their first state title. 

Join host Hannah Goodin on another exciting episode of Football Fridays in Georgia: Beyond the Lights. In this special edition, we delve into the incredible journey of former Georgia high school football star, Mecole Hardman, who played a pivotal role in Kansas City's Super Bowl victory. However, our focus isn't just on the game-winning touchdown but on the man who guided Hardman during his high school days – Coach Sid Fritts.