Experience and consistency will be key as undefeated Lincoln County prepares for its first-round GHSA playoff matchup against Randolph-Clay on Friday night.
The Red Devils enter the postseason anchored by a senior-heavy defense, which includes nine seniors in total, some of whom have been starters in some capacity since their freshman year. The Red Devils defense has only given up on average 7.3 points per game this season.
“There is a lot of experience in this group,” said Lincoln County Head Coach Lee Chomskis in reference to his defense. “They are playing hard, and we have been blessed with good health up to now.”
Lincoln County’s defense has been a steady force all season, but also complemented by kicker Fortson Partridge, who has pinned opponents deep throughout the year.
“Fortson is around 90% on his kickoffs going into the end zone,” Chomskis said. “That has created a long field for our opponents.”
The Lincoln County offense is no slouch either. The Red Devils offense is averaging 39 points per game behind star players like Mekhi Wade, and Kelby Glaze.
Wade, a dual-threat quarterback, has tossed eight touchdowns and ran for 10, while Glaze is averaging 10 yards per carry on 57 carries.
A tough first-round opponent
Lincoln County faces a formidable challenge in Randolph-Clay, a team known for explosive offense and aggressive defense.
“They have very good size, length, and speed,” Chomskis said. “Their offense is explosive, with a deep passing game. Their running back is big and physical, and their quarterback has a strong arm and can run like the wind.”
Defensively, Randolph-Clay employs a 4–3 formation and frequently blitzes its linebackers, a look Chomskis says will test his team’s discipline.
“They believe in stunting linebackers numerous times during the game,” he said. “We will have to play very well to beat Randolph-Clay.”
Fundamentals will be key
As the Red Devils take the field for the postseason, Chomskis said the focus remains simple: fundamentals and effort.
“We are excited to be in the playoffs and looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead,” he said. “It usually comes down to who will block and tackle the best, so that’s what we must do to continue playing this season.”
