
Scouting the Warriors
The Cherokee Warriors will come off of the double bye week as they begin the journey to extend their post-season appearance streak. Cherokee has started to get the run game going over the last few games, with Christian Irwin leading the way with 264 yards and 2-TDs. Quarterback Tanner Savasir has thrown for 1,074 yards and 6-TDs, as seven different Warrior receivers have caught passes including Gracen Sexton (18 receptions, 219 yards, 2-TDs), Wyatt Tash (24 receptions, 215 yards, 1-TD) and Pops Jameson (19 receptions, 277 yards, 2-TDs). Defensively, linebacker Chase Montgomery (36 TTs, 3-sacks), safety Weston Bergman (36 TTs) and Keynon Hunter (31-TTS, 2 sacks) have led the team statistically. J.D. Burn, Spencer Radnotti and Javon Hobson also round at the defensive line to make for a formidable unit.
Scouting the Wildcats
The Wheeler Wildcats are off to their best start since 2018. They are averaging 42.4 points per game and the do most of their damage on the ground as Kentrell Brown and Josiah Allen have combined for 1,001 yards and 14-TDs. The Wildcats are averaging 265.8 yards per game on the ground and just 85.8 yards per game through the air. The Wildcats defense is allowing just 13.4 points per game, have sacked opposing quarterbacks 22 times and forced 12 turnovers. Greg Blanks II and Kobe McMinnis have combined for 15 of those sacks. Meanwhile Jordan Whitehead leads the defense with 48 total tackles.
Pundit's Pick
Wins are at a premium at this point of the season, especially for these two teams that will still have to face region juggernauts Walton and North Cobb. The key is simple for Wheeler, control the line of scrimmage and feed Cherokee a steady dose of their running backs. For Cherokee, limit turnovers and convert red-zone opportunities. We expect this game to be closer than last season's tilt, but Wheeler and their ability to run the ball might be the difference. Wildcats by 7.

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