“Unfinished Business in 6A: Collins Hill" Quest for the Crown”

Collins Hill High School's football team had an impressive 2024 season, finishing with an 11-2 record and making a strong run to the Quarterfinals, where they battled fiercely in a close game. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the team is poised to build on that success. With a roster full of talented returning players, including key seniors and emerging underclassmen, the Eagles are determined to take the next step. Their mix of seasoned leadership and fresh talent, combined with a dedicated coaching staff, positions Collins Hill as a strong contender for a deeper playoff run. With the lessons learned from last year's narrow playoff exit, the Eagles are more focused than ever and ready to bring their best to the field this season.    Leading the charge for Collins Hill this season is their dominant force in the trenches — [player_tooltip player_id='212297' first='Deuce' last='Geralds II'] a 4-star Under Armour All-American defensive tackle, as ranked by 24/7 Sports. A true game-changer on both sides of the ball, he racked up an impressive 48 total tackles and 66 assists last season, according to MaxPreps. But his impact doesn't stop there — he also found the end zone 8 times on offense, showcasing his rare athleticism for a big man. With a relentless motor and elite explosiveness off the line, he embodies the definition of a “trench monster.” Whether blowing up plays in the backfield or bulldozing his way to the goal line, he's a nightmare for opponents and a cornerstone of the Eagles' 2025 campaign.     Returning under center for Collins Hill is standout quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='354909' first='Makyree' last='Cross'], who recently picked up an offer from Auburn University — a testament to his growing talent and potential. Standing at 6'3" with a strong, accurate arm and the mobility to make plays with his legs, Cross is the definition of a true dual-threat. Last season, he threw for 1,725 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions, posting an 84.6 QB rating. In today's game, everything revolves around quarterback play, and Cross has the tools to take this offense to the next level. If he takes the next step in his development, don't be surprised if Collins Hill finds themselves punching their ticket to the state championship.     [player_tooltip player_id='283873' first='Katrell' last='Webb'] is set to be a key piece of Collins Hill's defensive puzzle this season. A 3-star prospect according to 24/7 Sports, Webb made his presence felt last year with 29 solo tackles, 39 assists, and an impressive 13 sacks, per MaxPreps. A rangy, high-motor defensive end, he brings relentless pressure off the edge and has a knack for disrupting opposing offenses. With his combination of length, speed, and intensity, Webb is expected to wreak havoc in the backfield and set the tone up front. If he continues to elevate his game, he could be the spark that helps lead Collins Hill back to the top.     Maddox Henderson returns as Collins Hill's leading rusher, coming off a solid season where he totaled 473 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns. A young, dynamic back with plenty of upside, Henderson is expected to take on a bigger role in the ground game this year. With added experience and a full offseason of development, he's poised to elevate the rushing attack and bring balance to the Eagles' offensive firepower. Keep an eye on him as a breakout candidate in the 2025 season.     Xavier Sheffield is one of the rising young talents to watch for Collins Hill this season. After earning a spot in the rotation late last year, he's quickly gaining the trust of the coaching staff and is expected to take on a much larger role in the secondary. Sheffield plays the defensive back position with confidence — showcasing quick feet, sharp instincts, and a fearless approach as a willing tackler. As he steps into a starting role, the Eagles are looking for him to lock down one side of the field. If he continues his upward trajectory, Sheffield could be a major difference-maker on an already formidable Collins Hill defense.

Collins Hill High School's football team had an impressive 2024 season, finishing with an 11-2 record and making a strong run to the Quarterfinals, where they battled fiercely in a close game. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the team is poised to build on that success. With a roster full of talented returning players, including key seniors and emerging underclassmen, the Eagles are determined to take the next step. Their mix of seasoned leadership and fresh talent, combined with a dedicated coaching staff, positions Collins Hill as a strong contender for a deeper playoff run. With the lessons learned from last year's narrow playoff exit, the Eagles are more focused than ever and ready to bring their best to the field this season.