Rivalry Spotlight: East Coweta vs. Newnan

Southwest of Atlanta, Georgia lies both East Coweta, and Newnan High school. For years, because these two schools are only 20 minutes away from each other, their rivalry has been one of the most competitive, but underrated rivalries in the state of Georgia. Since the 1960’s, these two schools have been battling for the top spot in their community, and to be able to have bragging rights until they would meet next. Year after year, this rivalry packs out the home team’s stands, and there are even friends and families that are divided for 4 quarters. This rivalry, as underrated as it is, has also produced talent. It has produced players such as retired LB, Keith Brooking, UNC LB Jeremiah Gemmel, and Pittsburgh Steelers Safety Tray Matthews. While these may be some of the most notable names, it should be recognized that multiple players from these two schools go on to play football at the next level each year. In 2019, Newnan fell to the East Coweta Indians, 28-21, so, going into the 2020 season, they are looking for revenge this November. With a very capable roster, this would not be an impossible task for the Cougars. Below, we have listed a few players for each team who you should keep track of going into this upcoming season. <strong>Newnan</strong> Heading into this season, Newnan appears to be a very capable team on paper. They are returning key defensive players such as Steven Carter, and Denzel Boston, who will look to be effective in stopping opposing offenses such as East Coweta’s. Perhaps the biggest strength of the cougars team would be their offense. They have their starting QB, Michael Maginnis, who is also committed to Samford, returning for his senior season. With this, he also has the pleasure of playing alongside some of his best weapons, Reid Brass, and [player_tooltip player_id="33814" first="Josh" last="Harris"]. Outside of the passing game, they have two key options at the RB position that will be returning, Bryson moss and Nick Owens. Look for them to be able to be equally as effective in both the running, and passing game this upcoming season <strong>East Coweta</strong> The Indians did not have the best season in 2019, but are looking to improve by a large margin this upcoming season. They have key defensive players, Gabe Gray, Willie Rice, and Dylan Spelios returning. This will be very important in their ability to stop the running game within a region that is loaded with talent at the RB position, including their rival Newnan cougars. With this, they also have Gage Pitchford, who is committed to Vanderbilt, back for his senior season on the offensive line. Even then, one of the biggest stories of this year’s rivalry will be the impact of East Coweta’s transfer QB Daniel Shoch. Only after seeing how he translates to the Indians offense will anyone be able to accurately predict the potential success of this team’s ability to score and compete this season.