Grizzlies Aim to Return to Playoffs: 2025 Creekview Grizzlies Football Preview

The 2024 season marks a pivotal year for the Creekview Grizzlies football team. After a rollercoaster 2023 campaign that began with a 4-1 start and ended in a 5-5 record, Creekview narrowly missed the state playoffs. However, history may be on the Grizzlies’ side.

Head coach Trevor Williams has consistently led Creekview back to the postseason after missing the cut the previous year—a trend the team hopes to continue. With key returning players on both sides of the ball, the Grizzlies are poised to be competitive once again in Class 5A Region 6.

A Tough Opening Stretch

The Grizzlies will face a daunting early-season test, opening the year with defending Class 3A state champion Calhoun, followed by North Forsyth and Class 4A quarterfinalist Cambridge. These matchups will provide an early benchmark for Creekview’s readiness.

Region play also poses significant challenges. Sequoyah and Sprayberry are both coming off quarterfinal appearances, while playoff teams Woodstock and River Ridge present difficult road games. Creekview will need to repeat last year’s wins over Pope, Riverwood and Lassiter to maintain a good position in the playoff race this season.

Offensive Preview

Creekview will have to replace the production of quarterback Austin Guest, who led the team in rushing yards, passing yards and total scoring in 2024. Senior Alex Penrod is who we expect to take the reins under center, offering dual-threat ability in the Grizzlies’ read-option offense.

Running back Mason Munn returns for his senior season, a key piece in the ground game. Up front, Journey Cowart and Ryan Sullivan provide leadership and experience on the offensive line. The receiving corps remains an open question, though tight end Derek Mizysak Jr. flashed potential late last season. Austin Penrod may also see snaps on offense in versatile roles as needed.

Defensive Preview

Despite losing several starters to graduation, Creekview’s defense remains a strength thanks to a pipeline of emerging talent. The secondary is anchored by returning starters Austin Penrod, Zack Reis and JD Russell.

The linebacker unit will need to fill the void left by standout Brant Freeman, but Creekview’s history of developing linebacking talent suggests the transition may be smoother than others expect. The defensive line also sees considerable turnover, with players like Carter Cundy and Ryan Marrinson expected to step up following the departure of Kevin Meade.

Season Projection: Can Creekview Find Consistency?

The Grizzlies were a bit unpredictable last year, showing flashes of excellence, with some games leaving fans confused. If the offense can establish a reliable passing attack to complement its proven rushing game, Creekview could emerge as one of the top contenders in Region 6-5A.

Coach Williams' defenses have historically been strong, allowing just 18.5 points per game on average during his tenure. If the offense holds up its end of the bargain and controls the line of scrimmage and the pace of the game, Creekview should find itself in the thick of the playoff race once again.