Web posted Nov. 13 at 11:05 AM

 Playoffs to be televised on GPTV

By Rob Mueller
Staff Writer

The first-timers and the seasoned veterans were in agreement after victories in Friday night GHSA playoff quarterfinals matchups.

Playing in next weekend's state semifinals at the Georgia Dome will be a thrill for both Washington County and Burke County.

``I'm excited for these kids,'' Burke County coach Mike Falleur said, whose Bears (13-0) defeated Albany Dougherty 20-6 in the Class AAA quarterfinals Friday to send them Doming for the first time. ``This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us, and we're going to make the most of it.''

Burke County, which had not won a state playoff game in the school's previous 10 seasons, will face Clarkston in the semis at 6 p.m. on Friday. Clarkston defeated Columbia 6-0 in the quarterfinals.

``I've been thinking about that trip my whole career,'' Burke quarterback junior Charles Jones said of going to the Dome. ``And now it's actually going to happen. ... It's going to be great.''

Defending Class AA champion Washington County is headed back for a second straight trip to the Dome after defeating Mary Persons 32-14 in the quarterfinals on Friday. But the Golden Hawks (13-0) say the second time will be just as exciting.

Washington County recovered from another sluggish playoff start against Mary Persons and turned it on late with 20 unanswered points in the second half to advance. The Hawks will face Pepperell, 28-21 quarterfinal winners over Dacula, at the Dome this Saturday at 3 p.m.

``No matter how many times you play there it's a big, big thrill,'' said Jessie Miller, Washington County's all-state linebacker/fullback, who rushed for four touchdowns Friday. ``We've been waiting all year to get back to the Dome. We're looking forward to getting out in front of the big crowd and showing the state what the Golden Hawks can do.''