#PRZTN Championship Preview: BGA vs. CPA

<!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Game One of the Blue Cross State Championships is a rematch from earlier this season where the Lions won but BGA is hot right now &amp; ready for war! Learn about these two below in our D2-Class AA title game preview. </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Christ Presbyterian Academy </strong>vs. <strong>Battle Ground Academy&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Records: <strong>Lions </strong>(13-0) &nbsp; <strong>Wildcats </strong>(11-2)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>When: Dec. 5th - 11:00 AM Central</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Where: Chattanooga, TN</strong> (Finley Stadium)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>TV/Internet: WUXP-30, TSSAAsports.com</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coaches</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>CPA - Ingle Martin</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>BGA - Bobby Bentley&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Key Players to Watch</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["914547"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba592"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">This junior passer has been a tear this year, putting up significant numbers while placing himself as a current Mr. Football finalist. Marable is a game changer that will need to play his best football of the season to see his Wildcats team hold up a championship trophy. He has the mindset and arm talent to get the job done but his line must keep him clean for the Cats to succeed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1002764"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba5f4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Over the 2nd half of the season, Hayes has been near unstoppable and one of the better playmakers coming out of the Mid-TN region. During the first matchup against CPA, Hayes showed that he could work over the Lions secondary. His explosive style of play will be needed in this contest as this future college wideout has the talent to do some damage versus a solid Lions secondary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["866788"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba639"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A key piece up front on both sides of the ball, Fleming has put forth a breakout junior season where he has become the team's top blocker on the line and best sack artist on defense. The Cats big man plays with an outstanding motor and desire on the line of scrimmage that sets the tone throughout the entire team. He will certainly need to get after the Lions quarterback early and often for his team to walk away as state champs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1230849"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba67a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Recently committed to MTSU, Kennedy is a top playmaker on this team that has made game changing plays throughout the 2024 season and it will need to continue in this D2-Class AA championship game. Catching passes on offense will be important in this contest but Kennedy playing on the back end at safety will be of even more importance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["220692"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba6ba"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Headed into this title game as a Mr. Football finalist, Chance has an opportunity to lead his Lions team to back to back championships but he must focus going against a BGA team that is talented and hungry. The Lions signal caller has been steady all year long, playing consistent football and doing all the right things needed to win. That kind of performance can get the job done and help put another “Gold Ball” in the Lions trophy case.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1335216"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba6f9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Patterson is a featured offensive player for the Lions and someone the Wildcats defense will certainly be keying on to stop. When this junior ball carrier produces at a high level, CPA usually wins. If Patterson is allowed to go-off in this contest, running all over the Cat's defense, CPA will come away as the victor. If he is kept in-check, the underdog may have a shot at pulling off the upset.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["824736"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba738"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">One of the best offensive prospects from our #TN2026 class, Cabell can be a game changer in this title game due to his size, speed and ability to make tough, contested catches. In the first matchup versus BGA, Cabell was a difference maker the Wildcats secondary could not slow down. If he is able to have the same kind of performance in Chattanooga, the Lions could be holding up a trophy.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1566274"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-674bf183ba777"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The other junior Patterson has been a stalwart on the Lions defense all season long and will be expected to play at a high level yet again in this title matchup. You could see this backer play a key role on offense as a short yard, red zone ball carrier but his work on defense stopping the run will be very important. His physicality at linebacker sets the tone each game for his Lions defense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- - - - - </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Game Preview</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- </strong>These two teams kick off state championship week on Thursday morning in a game that could go a variety of ways. CPA is the standard within the D2-Class AA ranks that is your reigning, defending champion but BGA comes into this matchup hot and feeling confident about themselves. These teams met back in September where the Lions put a beatdown on the Cats, beating them 49-16. It wasn't the performance BGA wanted but I'm sure it was a learning lesson that could help them in this championship matchup.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The key to slowing down CPA and keeping them dormant is stopping their run game. The Lions like to establish themselves on the ground and they have a dude to lean on in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1335216' first='Rawls' last='Patterson']</strong>. He is complimented by a solid offensive line, spearheaded by future college guys in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='323140' first='Brady' last='Smith'] </strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1158911' first='Isaiah' last='Bryant']</strong>. If the Wildcats want a chance at pulling the upset, the defensive front with <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='866788' first='Nate' last='Fleming']</strong>, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1103031' first='Elijah' last='Fernandez'], [player_tooltip player_id='902956' first='Justice' last='Pittman'] </strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='902961' first='Jayden' last='Cannon'] </strong>have to be on point, playing physical and keeping the Lions rushing game to a minimum.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1448184,"width":"299px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/nfleming.jpg?w=666" alt="" class="wp-image-1448184" style="width:299px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Getting after <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='220692' first='Hutson' last='Chance']</strong> with pressure will also be key as well. The Lions do a good job up front of not only opening holes for their backs but also keeping Chance out of harm's way. If you're BGA, you can't just pay attention to their rushing attack and forget about the pass. Chance is a Mr. Football finalist for a reason and he has a “dude” in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='824736' first='Owen' last='Cabell'] </strong>to target and throw to. A secondary option at receiver would be nice in this contest for CPA to force the Wildcats defensive backs to not focus so much attention on Cabell.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Wildcats must receive better play from their offense, compared to the first game. Scoring 16 points in game one will not be good enough in this contest, so BGA must receive stellar play from their star playmakers in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='914547' first='Kaedyn' last='Marable']</strong>, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1405419' first='Ethan' last='Kellum'] </strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1002764' first='Arnett' last='Hayes, Jr']</strong>. to achieve victory. The Lions defense won't make things easy as they play a technique sound, physical brand of football but are lacking star power. I can see a scenario where the Wildcats are able to score a lot of points but their O-line must hold up from beginning to end.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1335247,"width":"369px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/rpatterson.webp?w=970" alt="" class="wp-image-1335247" style="width:369px;height:auto" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Chris Brooks 615Preps.com</figcaption></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>CPA has to be ready for a different BGA team. The outcome might turn out to be the same as the regular season but the Lions can't go into this game thinking the Cats are ready to lay down and give it away. I expect this game to be quite physical in the trenches along with each team's playmakers having a chance to shine. Creating turnovers and key defensive stops will be key. Whichever team is able to establish their run game I think will gain an edge towards eventual victory.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Game Prediction</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>- This could be a fun, interesting game to follow as both teams know each other well with both sporting college level talent. I see this game remaining hard fought and close early and potentially into the 4th quarter before one of the team's takes control. BGA comes in the underdog but has the kind of “dudes” to make a difference in this matchup. CPA is a well oiled machine that is well coached and doesn't beat themselves. If the Wildcats plan to pull the upset, they can't turn the ball over, they have to play strong in the trenches and their top players must play their best.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I expect the Lions to force their run game on BGA and make them stop it. I do think the Cats performance on the line should be better in this matchup but can they hold up all the way till the end. I also expect the BGA offense to perform much better compared to the first game with Marable having a few MVP type moments.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>My head wants me to pick BGA based on the overall talent on hand but my gut keeps telling me to roll with the Lions and their strong winning culture. The Wildcats could very well play their best game of the season and win this title matchup but I think they are one year away from accomplishing that feat. CPA should reign victorious in the end and win back to back D2-Class AA state titles.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Score: <strong>CPA 33&nbsp; BGA 24</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1570239,"width":"307px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/hutchance.jpg?w=400" alt="" class="wp-image-1570239" style="width:307px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image -->