Lincoln County is one win away from a state championship appearance, and the Red Devils enter Friday’s semifinal with confidence after one of their most dominant seasons in recent memory. This week’s challenge sends them on the road to face 10-3 Early County with a berth in the Class A Division II state final at stake.
Lincoln County sits at 13–0 and has controlled opponents from Week 1 through the postseason. The Red Devils have scored 541 points this year while allowing only 95, dominating opponents week in and week out.
Their playoff run has been as lopsided as it gets. The Red Devils opened with a 43-6 win over Randolph-Clay in round one. They would go on to shut out Hawkinsville 56-0 the following round and then put a beatdown on Brooks County 52-16 in last Friday’s matchup.
The offense continues to lean on its powerful ground game. Senior running back Kelby Glaze is averaging nearly 12 yards per carry in his last two games, and junior running back Jonathan Norman has also emerged as a key playmaker the past two games, averaging 10 yards per carry. Both runners have fueled a consistent attack that has worn down defenses all season.
Quarterback Mekhi Wade, running back Christian Elam, and running back Aiden Jones are also huge contributors to the Red Devils’ rushing attack.
Lincoln County’s defense has been equally overwhelming. The unit has surrendered fewer than 100 points all year and has allowed just 22 points in three playoff games combined.
Early County enters the contest with a strong run game of their own. Senior quarterback Evan Griest and senior running back Devonis Lee of Early County both are over 1000 yards rushing on the year. Expect both teams to grind it out on the ground.
Friday’s trip to Early County marks the program’s biggest moment since its 2022 semifinal appearance. With a trip to the state title game on the line, the Red Devils will look to maintain their physicality, limit mistakes, and continue dictating the pace with their rushing attack.
Kickoff is set for Friday, Dec. 5 7:30 p.m. at Early County High School.
