As the GHSA State football playoffs kick off, the Greater Savannah area is poised to make its mark on the postseason landscape. With six teams from the region set to embark on their "second season," the stage is set for an exciting and unpredictable run towards championship glory.

Savannah's Playoff Powerhouses Primed for Postseason Dominance

Benedictine: A Battle-Tested Juggernaut

Benedictine, a perennial powerhouse in the state, enters the playoffs with a battle-tested roster and a championship pedigree. The Cadets, led by head coach Danny Britt, have reached the second round of the playoffs every year since 2012, and have won four state titles since 2014. Despite a 5-4 regular season record, Benedictine has faced a gauntlet of tough opponents, including Rabun Gap, Buford, Ware County, and defending state champion Perry. The Cadets' ability to compete against elite competition has forged a team that is primed for a deep playoff run.Sophomore quarterback Omari Burse has stepped up in the absence of the injured Stephen Cannon, throwing for 779 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. The Cadets' offensive firepower is further bolstered by the dynamic duo of running back Stanley Smart Jr. and wide receiver Bubba Frazier. Smart has rushed for 613 yards, while Frazier has amassed 640 receiving yards and 378 rushing yards, showcasing his versatility.Defensively, Benedictine boasts a wealth of talent, led by senior edge rusher Third Scroggins, a Miami commit who has recorded 17 sacks this season. Junior defensive tackle Kam Cody and sophomore linebacker Isaiah Jones have also been instrumental in the Cadets' stifling defensive efforts.

Effingham County: An Aerial Assault

Effingham County has emerged as one of the most potent passing offenses in the state, thanks to the emergence of junior quarterback Tucker Perkins. Perkins has thrown for an impressive 2,619 yards, 32 touchdowns, and just 6 interceptions, while completing 67% of his passes. The Rebels' passing attack is further bolstered by a talented receiving corps, led by senior Jacques King, sophomore Trayvis Hunter, and senior Ryan Wells.Sophomore running back J'Mere Doe-Davis has also been a versatile weapon for the Rebels, rushing for 861 yards and 9 touchdowns, while also contributing 393 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. Effingham County's high-powered offense has averaged 37 points per game, making them a formidable opponent for any team they face.

Jenkins: The Unsung Warriors

Despite an 8-2 record and a memorable playoff run last season, Jenkins has flown under the radar, failing to crack the AJC's Top 10 rankings all season. However, the Warriors possess a well-rounded offense and a stifling defense that could make them a dark horse in the postseason.Jenkins' rushing attack is led by a trio of talented ball carriers, including senior Trenton Rhodes, who has found the end zone 14 times this season. Sophomore Ryan Scott has also been a force, rushing for 512 yards and 7 touchdowns. Quarterback Demetrius Holloway has been efficient, completing 64% of his passes for 892 yards, 12 touchdowns, and just 2 interceptions.Defensively, the Warriors are led by senior linebacker Reico Collins, who has recorded 82 tackles, and junior Isaac Smith, who has 12.5 sacks. Jenkins' defense has been stingy, allowing just 16 points per game on average.

Bethesda: Defending Champions Seeking Repeat Glory

Bethesda Academy, the defending SCISA Class 2A state champions, are primed for another deep playoff run. The Blazers, led by running back Assir Best and freshman quarterback Jordan Turner, have dominated their opponents, outscoring them by an average of 21.2 points per game.Best has been a workhorse for the Blazers, rushing for 927 yards and 19 total touchdowns. Turner has also been impressive, throwing for 1,152 yards and 8 touchdowns. Junior wide receiver Raleigh Wesley has been Turner's favorite target, hauling in 34 catches for 619 yards and 10 touchdowns.Defensively, Bethesda has been stifling, allowing just 14.8 points per game. Jordan Cheever has been a standout on the defensive side, leading the team with 54 tackles.As the Blazers prepare to face Calhoun Academy in the SCISA Class 2A semifinals, they will look to defend their state title and cement their place as one of the top programs in the region.

Savannah Christian and Calvary Day: Byes and Bright Futures

Savannah Christian and Calvary Day have both earned first-round byes in the Class A-3A Private School playoffs, giving them a much-needed week off to rest and prepare for their second-round matchups. These two programs have established themselves as perennial contenders in the private school ranks, and their postseason success is a testament to the quality of football in the Savannah area.While Savannah Country Day and Jenkins will be the only Savannah-area teams in action this week, the Raiders and Cavaliers will be eagerly awaiting their next opponents, ready to make their own mark on the playoffs.As the GHSA State football playoffs kick into high gear, the Greater Savannah area is poised to showcase its depth and talent on the gridiron. From the battle-tested Benedictine Cadets to the high-flying Effingham County Rebels, the region's teams are primed to make a lasting impact on the postseason landscape.