After a dominant playoff run that saw them outscore four opponents 185-22, the Lincoln County Red Devils (14-0) are headed to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the Class A Division II state championship game. Lincoln County will face Bowdon (12-2) on Monday, Dec. 15, at 3:30 p.m.
“The seniors are very excited about the opportunity to play for a state championship,” said Lincoln County head coach Lee Chomskis. “Each has put in a lot of work to create this opportunity. Leadership is always critical, and our seniors have done a pretty good job in that department. We certainly would not be in this position without our talented senior class.”
Playoff dominance
The Red Devils have been unstoppable in the postseason, defeating Randolph-Clay 43-6, blanking Hawkinsville 56-0, handling Brooks County 52-16, and shutting out Early County 34-0 in the quarterfinals.
Four seniors were highlighted by Chomskis for their playoff performances. Quarterback Mekhi Wade, wingback Kelby Glaze, fullback Christian Elam, and lineman Jeremiah Wynn were all praised by Chomskis for their leadership and impact in the playoffs. All four have been starters since their freshman year.
Chomskis also mentioned that the team has grown a lot since the beginning of the season.
“We have matured quite a bit since earlier in the year,” Chomskis said. “We handle adversity better, and are playing very hard at the end of this season.”
The championship challenge
Bowdon presents a formidable opponent, as they have won the last three state championships in Division II A.
“Bowdon has an incredible program,” Chomskis said. “Coach Fendley has been able to build a consistent winner there at Bowdon. They are strong, physical, sound fundamentally, and play very hard.”
Chomskis outlined the keys to victory. “We will have to be able to sustain drivesunreal. We cannot make mistakes, and must be solid in the kicking game. Defensively we must limit the big plays, and must capitalize if they make a mistake.”
The Red Devils have outscored opponents 576-95 this season while posting three shutouts. Now they stand 48 minutes away from the program’s ultimate goal.
