The Dubs closed out yet another long and difficult off-season with their annual preseason scrimmage against the Westminster Wildcats. As consistent playoff contenders in a difficult 3A bracket, the Wildcats are a good and tough test for the Dubs. As the only true home game on the Warriors’ schedule, they always look to defend the hill and treat their new seniors with a win on home soil. And what a send-off it was as the Dubs secured a hard-fought 19-13 victory.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Dubs saw large contributions from Junior quarterback Ian Reynolds, Senior wide receiver Xaden Benson, and Senior running back Demetrius Barnes. Despite the game being a low-scoring affair, the very strong starting quarterback Ian Reynolds showed signs of brilliance with an impressive aerial masterclass. With two passing touchdowns, Reynolds carved up the Wildcats secondary: one touchdown coming on the goal-line to Senior tight end Colton Gardner and one being a deep shot to Benson who snuck behind the defense for an electric fifty-yard score. This fifty-yard heave to Benson turned the tide of the game and secured the win for the Dubs. The potent air attack was complemented by a very strong rushing performance by Demetrius Barnes. With multiple long, gashing runs, he forced the Wildcats to stay honest and respect the ground game. “It was a great total offensive effort,” said Reynolds, “everyone on the lineup contributed and I couldn’t be more proud of my guys.”
Despite all of the offensive fireworks, the defense stole the show. Standing firm and holding Westminster to a mere 13 points, they remind onlookers of the famed 1977 “Grits Blitz” Falcons unit. On the defensive line, star defensive end Junior Chase Linton caused havoc all night with his explosive presence. With multiple tackles for loss and quarterback hurries, Linton struck fear into the hearts and minds of the Wildcat faithful. This dangerous pass rush was backed up by an amazing performance from Senior linebacker Conner Hughes. Hughes led the team in tackles in 2022 and continued that success against Westminster, once again providing the most tackles on the squad. In the defensive backfield, Benson, once again, had a stellar outing, flying around and making plays all over the field. He was supported by Junior safety Tobi Adewoyin who forced a crucial fumble that turned the tide in the Dubs’ favor. “I love going out there and making plays,” said Linton, “football is everything to me and I play with that mentality for all 48 minutes.”
With the preseason now officially over, and successfully beginning the last ride for the seniors with a win, the Dubs can’t wait to see what they can do in their highly anticipated 2023 season. Riding the wave of the inaugural victory, the first regular season game kicks off all Georgia high school football on state-wide television. The season ahead promises success as the Dubs aim to build on the triumphs of last year.
