“There’s always a level of excitement for the first game, but getting to play in the Georgia Dome in the Kell Classic takes it up another two or three levels,” said Irwin.
Last season’s victory over Walton jump-started Brookwood’s state championship season, the first in head coach Mark Crews’ career after two previous championship game appearances. The Broncos will have to replace quarterback Ben McLane (Georgia State), linebacker Cameron Lynch (Syracuse) and offensive lineman Blake Fussell (Air Force), but return running back Nick Tompkins (committed to Michigan State) and defensive back Zach Jackson (committed to Illinois).
Cobb County power Lassiter will try to end Brookwood’s 12-game winning streak. Junior Eddie Printz may be the best quarterback in the state, as he threw for over 2,100 yards and 21 touchdowns last year. Printz’s top target is Charlie Hegedus, a North Carolina State commitment who has been clocked at 4.4 in the 40-yard dash. Last season, Hegedus had 675 yards receiving and caught nine touchdown passes.
“Charlie is a guy who can get down the field for us and make a lot of plays,” said Irwin. “He and Eddie have a pretty good relationship as far as developing on-field chemistry.”
Contributors: Stephen Black
