Live Updates: Georgia Class AAAAA State Championship Results and Highlights

Live Updates from Georgia Class AAAAA State Championship

The Georgia Class AAAAA state championship game features the undefeated Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets (14-0) facing off against Gainesville (12-2). The showdown is scheduled for Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. inside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Thomas County Central seeks its sixth overall state title and holds a 5-2 record in championship game appearances. Gainesville aims to capture its first state crown since 2012, a year highlighted by former QB Deshaun Watson, now an NFL player.

Key Players to Watch

Thomas County’s offense is spearheaded by senior quarterback Jaylen Johnson, who has amassed 2,503 passing yards with 37 touchdowns and just four interceptions, plus 280 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. Wide receiver Jabari Watkins, a junior, contributes 51 receptions for 804 yards and 11 scores. Running back Christian Lawrence leads the rushing attack with 1,836 yards and 24 touchdowns.

On defense, senior linebacker Omari Stephenson leads with 67 tackles (48 solo), including 12 tackles for loss. Senior defensive end Cam Brooks has recorded 24 tackles with an impressive 15.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks. Safety Dannell Jester adds 34 tackles, three interceptions, and a fumble recovery.

For Gainesville, quarterback Kharim Hughley, a junior, boasts 2,344 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Running back Nigel Newkirk leads the ground game with 1,496 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns. Senior wide receiver Philip Williams has logged 41 catches for 614 yards and five touchdowns.

Defensively, linebacker Xavier Griffin tops the charts with 96 tackles (67 solo) and 12 tackles for loss. Defensive lineman Jamarion Matthews has 58 tackles, 21 for loss, and ten sacks. Junior linebacker Darryn Williams adds 88 tackles, including six interceptions and a fumble recovery.

Game Progress and Updates

Fans can follow live score updates and analysis throughout the game as Thomas County Central attempts to maintain its perfect season against a Gainesville squad hungry for its first championship in over a decade. Both teams display strong statistics on offense and defense, promising a competitive and thrilling contest in Atlanta.

Stay tuned for ongoing coverage and insights as the game unfolds at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.