It was a big opening night for playoff teams from DeKalb County, where a record six teams advanced to the second round of the playoffs. The most DeKalb teams that previously advanced to the Sweet 16 were five in 2009.

This year DeKalb produced six first-round winners: Miller Grove, Columbia, Stephenson, Lithonia, King and Southwest DeKalb. 

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Frank Johnson ran for 98 yards and two touchdowns to lead Miller Grove.

Credit: DeKalb County Athletics

Miller Grove (9-2) won the first playoff game in school history when they upended Spencer 20-9. The Wolverines scored twice within a 30-second span to put the game away. Frank Johnson led Miller Grove with 21 carries for 98 yards and two touchdowns and Candler Adams came up with two fumble recoveries, one that he returned for a 50-yard touchdown, and a hit that forced an interception. Miller Grove will play at Morgan County in the second round. 

Southwest DeKalb (9-2) took a 21-0 lead and rolled to a 35-7 victory over Jonesboro. The Panthers moved on to the second round for the 19th time in 36 playoff appearances. Quarterback Braylon Carter ran for a score and threw for a touchdown to lead SWD, which plays Kell in the second round.

Stephenson (10-1) rolled to a 42-18 win over Richmond Academy.  Jayden Johnson rushed 14 times for 221 yards and three touchdowns and Anthony Booker rushed for 103 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Jaguars. Stephenson advances to play Westside-Augusta in the second round. 

Columbia (5-6) won its fifth straight game, a 32-18 decision over East Jackson. Czar Daniels (14-for-23 for 271 yards and two touchdowns) and Daquarrion Trammell (17 carries, 147 yards) each accounted for two touchdowns. Jmarion Davis intercepted two passes and forced a fumble to lead the defense. The Eagles will host Burke County in the next round. 

Lithonia (9-2) outlasted Griffin 27-8 to advance to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 1994. Xavier Butler ran for three touchdowns and Braylen Jackson led the defense with 13 tackles, including a sack and three tackles for loss. The Bulldogs will host Centennial in the second round. 

King (10-1) moved on to the second round for the first time since 2012 by defeating Hiram 47-23. The Lions advance to play at defending state champion and No. 1 North Oconee in the second round.