3A Semi Final Preview: Appling County at Cedar Grove

One of the most interesting games of the weekend will come in Atlanta as the South Georgia squad from Appling County heads north to take on the mighty Cedar Grove Saints who have been dominating teams of late. Here are a few standout players to know in the game... &nbsp; <em><strong>CEDAR GROVE: </strong></em> <strong><a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prepredzone.com/player/christen-miller/"><span class="name-pointer">[player_tooltip player_id="95147" first="Christen" last="Miller"]</span></a> – DL </strong> One of the top defensive line prospects in the South, the big 6-foot-3 290-pound interior lineman is big, strong, and quick off the ball for his size. He plays with heart, passion, and has a true love for the game. He has a good motor, showing the ability to track down ball-carriers from behind. He plays with good pad level and can overpower smaller offensive lineman. He’s excellent against the run and can get after the passer from the inside as well. Miller has been dominating his opponent all fall and will be a force to deal with on Friday night. &nbsp; <strong>CJ Madden – LB </strong> After not playing last year, Madden became one of the state’s top linebacker prospects due to his length, athleticism, versatility, and overall potential. The 6-foot-3 240-pound EDGE defender has lined up in a number of positions for Cedar Grove but he’s expected to line up as an outside linebacker a the next level. His length and speed off the edge makes him a promising pass rusher at the next level. Look for him to make a big impact against Appling County. &nbsp; <strong><a class="pn-player-link" href="https://prepredzone.com/player/rashod-dubinion/"><span class="name-pointer">[player_tooltip player_id="95166" first="Rashod" last="Dubinion"]</span></a> – ATH </strong> One of the biggest offense playmakers across the state, Dubinion was unstoppable this past weekend against Crisp County, rushing 27 times for 265 yards and 3 rushing touchdowns in Cedar Grove’s 28-6 victory. The explosive 5-foot-10 185-pounder is an Arkansas commitment who could give the Razorbacks a boost next season as a freshman. He’s shifty, explosive, and can make defenders miss on a consistent basis. He’s had a phenomenal senior season and he’s looking to take the Saints all the way to the championship. Look for him to get the ball early and often on Friday night. &nbsp; <strong>Other players to know...</strong> <em>DE [player_tooltip player_id="33876" first="Joshua" last="White"]</em> DB [player_tooltip player_id="34049" first="Kayin" last="Lee"] DB [player_tooltip player_id="33918" first="Donovan" last="Johnson"] [player_tooltip player_id="33874" first="Janiran" last="Bonner"] &nbsp; <em><strong>Appling County </strong></em> <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="95151" first="Darris" last="Smith"] - EDGE</strong> An elite pass rusher, the future Georgia Bulldog has great length and athleticism at 6-foot-6 225-pounds with the frame to continue adding more solid weight. He’s explosive off the edge as a defender, but he can turn around and play some tight end of offense when needed. He runs extremely well for a taller, longer prospect, and his best football is still in front of him. He’s still raw, but as he develops, Smith could be an explosive, athletic EDGE defender in Athens. Look for him to make plays on both sides of the ball against Cedar Grove. &nbsp; <strong>Jaylen Johnson - ATH</strong> A do-it-all athlete for the Pirates, Johnson is an explosive playmaker who can line up at RB/WR and even return punts and kicks. He’s quick, shifty, and one of the region’s best with the ball in his hands. The 5-foot-10 195-pounder is a big play waiting to happen and he’ll be lining up against one of the best defenses in the entire state. With his hands, speed, and overall athleticism, look for him to see plenty of touches and opportunities to make plays throughout Friday night’s game. &nbsp; <strong>Mykel Reed - DL</strong> One of the top young 2024 defensive line prospects in South Georgia, Reed is a giant 6-foot-3 280-pound defender who can dominate early on in the region as a sophomore. He’s thick, quick for his size, and is already becoming a prospect gaining early offers. He’s tough to handle with his size and raw strength, and he’s only getting better. He’ll need to play at his very best against a massive Cedar Grove offensive line looking to play physical and establish a rushing attack. If Reed can play well, he’ll see even more offers come his way. &nbsp;