Writer is dazed, confused

Last week was nearly the worst week I've had in the six years I've been picking Columbia County football Games.

I finished the week 2-3 thanks to a victory from Augusta Christian and an overtime squeaker by Lakeside.

The Panthers got by Westside in triple overtime 28-26, and ACS blanked Richard Winn 27-0.

Jefferson County pulled off a shocker in my eyes. One week after losing at home to lowly Cross Creek, the Warriors shut down Cheng Ho and the Knights offense en route to a 32-20 victory. Also, Harlem shutout Hancock Central, 21-0, to even their record at 1-1. And Greenbrier opened with a loss to Morgan County. I knew this game would be a tough one for the Pack. Morgan County was 10-2 a year ago, but I thought Greenbrier would wear them down and pick up the win. OK; now its time to redeem myself.

Calhoun (2-0) at ACS (2-0)

The Lions may have their stiffest challenge of the year. Calhoun Academy is off to a 2-0 start. They have outscored their opponents 49-14. However, they have never visited Pride Valley. The Lions seem to be playing with a lot of confidence right now. With the confidence and the home field advantage I have to go ACS. Also, it appears that Lee Banks will be able to fill the shoes of Adam McKinney.

ACS 24 Calhoun Co. 16

Evans (1-1) at Laney (2-0)

Evans will try to bounce back after a tough loss to Jefferson County. The Knights must run the ball to be successful. Also, surprisingly, Laney has had a tough time stopping the run. I know that coach Eric Parker will be focusing on stopping Cheng Ho all week in practice. Plus the Wildcats just have too many athletes for Evans to handle. Keep an eye on the Trio of Domonique Walker (QB), Curtis Sapp (WR-LB), and Robert Dunn (RB-WR-DB).

Laney 34 Evans 10

Greenbrier (0-1) at Westside (1-1)

There will still be some excitement due to the new stadium at Westside. However the team took a tough loss last week at Lakeside and mentally they may have a hard time forgetting about that game. Greenbrier should be able to slow down the ground game a bit, and if they do they will come away with a win.

Greenbrier 20 Westside 13

Harlem (1-1) at Jefferson Co. (1-1)

The Bulldogs picked up a big win last week against Hancock Central. This week they will have their hands full against a Jefferson Co. team that is riding high after a 32-30 win over Evans. (Remember Evans easily handled Harlem). The Warriors have very good athletes at their skill positions. That means it could be a long night for Harlem.

Jefferson Co. 37 Harlem 13

Lakeside (1-0-1) at Effingham County (1-1)

Lakeside picked up big win last week. Especially when you consider the fact that Carl Burrow did not play. Effingham Co. will provide a tougher test, but they are coming off a 25-7 loss against their arch rival South Effingham. This is another game where the home field advantage will play a big role. Despite having one of the most gutsy players in the CSRA in Jimmy Johnson the Panthers will lose a close game here. Effingham Co. 27 Lakeside 23