Valdosta and Lowndes meet Friday in the 45th Winnersville Classic with undefeated records and the Region 1-7A title on the line. Both teams are 8-0, and the fifth-ranked Wildcats bring a high-scoring offense into the fourth-ranked Vikings’ home stadium. The winner claims the region championship and a major chapter in one of Georgia’s fiercest high school rivalries.

By the Numbers
  • Both teams are 8-0; Valdosta is ranked No. 5 and Lowndes No. 4.
  • Valdosta has scored at least 52 points in every game this season.
  • Lowndes quarterback Jayce Johnson totaled 239 yards and 4 touchdowns in his return from injury.
  • Valdosta coach Shelton Felton is 49-18 in his sixth season; a win would be his 50th.
  • The livestream costs $29; coverage begins at 6:45 p.m., with kickoff at 8 p.m.
Yes, But

Valdosta is surging after a 63-10 win over Camden County, but Lowndes brings a powerful rushing attack and an offensive line anchored by Georgia commit Abram Eisenhower. The Wildcats will need to contain Johnson and keep the Vikings from controlling the line of scrimmage.

State of Play
  • Valdosta has piled up points behind quarterback Tripp Perry and playmakers Deron Foster and Marquis Fennell.
  • Lowndes is seeking its ninth straight win, with Johnson back and wideout Kaevone Thomas emerging as a threat.
  • Tickets are sold out; fans can watch the game online.
What's Next

Friday’s winner takes the Region 1-7A championship. The game also offers Felton a milestone win and Valdosta a chance to beat both Colquitt County and Lowndes in the same season for the first time since 2011.

Bottom Line

This is more than a rivalry game: two unbeaten teams are playing for the region crown, and the matchup may turn on whether Valdosta can slow Lowndes’ ground game.