Buford (Ga.) vs. Washington County (Sandersville, Ga.)What to watch: This is the record seventh-consecutive appearance in a state championship game for Buford. After trailing at halftime for the first time this season, the Wolves (14-0) charged back to defeat Callaway (Hogansville), 24-14,
in last week's Class AAA semifinals. Four-star junior
Joshua Thomas led the way with 221 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Washington County (13-0) earned its
first trip to a title game in 10 years thanks to a 37-0 win over Ringgold. Senior running back
Melvin Hill propelled the Golden Hawks with 117 rushing yards and a 99-yard return for a touchdown.
Just the facts: A win Friday would give Buford its 10th state championship, with six coming in the last seven years. Washington County is shooting for its fourth title. All three of its previous championships were won between 1994-97. … Despite its relatively small enrollment, Buford has produced 40 scholarship players at the Division I level since 2000.
Mitch Stephens: Buford 35, Washington County 20
Kevin Askeland: Buford 42, Washington County 21
Jamie DeMoney: Buford 34, Washington County 13
Stephen Spiewak: Buford 21, Washington County 10
Leland Gordon: Buford 42, Washington County 30
Colin Ward-Henninger: Buford 35, Washington County 34
Jamie DeMoney is in his 20th season covering high school sports and recruiting. He is a Regional Content Manager and Product Specialist for XOS Digital and compiles the National Prep Poll (PrepNation) for World Features Syndicate.
