The Worth County Rams, holding the top spot in Class A Division I, prepare to face the No. 10 Bleckley County Royals on November 3, 2023. After an impressive first-round playoff victory against McNair, where they secured a commanding 68-0 win, the Rams now encounter a significantly tougher challenge in the second round of the postseason.
High Stakes and Tough Competition
The Rams, boasting an undefeated record of 11-0, aim to solidify their status as a championship contender. According to Georgia High School Football Daily, Worth County is projected as an 18-point favorite, but coach Jeff Hammond acknowledges the challenge ahead. “Bleckley County is very good,” he stated. “We will have to play well on both sides of the ball. Turnovers and red zone efficiency will be critical. They are big and physical on both lines, and their quarterback throws it well. It looks like a balanced matchup.”
Bleckley County arrives in Sylvester with a strong performance history, featuring a 9-2 record. Their two losses, both to playoff teams, include a narrow two-point defeat against Dodge County and a loss to No. 8 Dublin. The Royals also demonstrated their capabilities by edging out the No. 7 Northeast Macon in a tight 14-13 victory, showcasing their ability to prevail in close contests.
Quarterback Showdown and Offensive Dynamics
The upcoming match is highlighted by an exciting quarterback battle. Worth County’s Lyndon Worthy, the preseason Player of the Year, has thrown for 2,091 yards and 23 touchdowns this season. His performance has been instrumental in leading a disciplined and explosive Rams offense. Conversely, Bleckley County counters with junior Brody Fleming, who has amassed 2,227 passing yards and 29 touchdown passes, proving himself adept at capitalizing on defensive mistakes.
Both teams exhibit a balanced offensive approach, albeit in different styles. Worth County’s running game has been formidable, with senior backs Kaden Chester and TreShaun Jones combining for over 1,700 yards and 41 touchdowns. This potent ground attack allows the Rams to control the game’s tempo effectively. In contrast, Bleckley County utilizes a rotation of backs, including juniors Deondrez Robertson and Isaiah Simeton, adding unpredictability to their offense.
As the Rams prepare for the heightened intensity of playoff football, the pivotal question remains: which team will maintain its identity under pressure?
Defensive prowess will also play a significant role in determining the outcome of the game. Worth County’s defense has displayed resilience throughout the season, anchored by standout players Chance Sims, King Toomer, and Brady Weaver. They have been responsible for limiting opponents’ scoring and will face their toughest test yet against Bleckley County.
The Royals bring a strong defensive presence as well, led by Landey Nobles, who has recorded 87 tackles, and senior Patrick Roberts, with 66 tackles. Both will be key to containing the Rams’ offensive firepower.
Kickoff is scheduled for 19:30 at Earl Pitts Stadium in Sylvester. The Rams aspire to remain unbeaten and secure a place in the state quarterfinals. As the anticipation builds, the iconic cannon, a fixture at Rams’ games, will signal the excitement of the evening. The question remains: how many times will it fire? If Worth County’s offense excels, the cannon will sound frequently, indicating a continued perfect season. If not, the Rams may find themselves in a hard-fought battle, one that Coach Hammond has been preparing them for all week.
With a crucial matchup ahead, Sylvester is set to witness how ready the No. 1 Rams truly are.
