Episodes
The Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast All-Stars join Jon Nelson to preview the 2024 playoffs. Join Todd Holcomb of the Georgia High School Football Daily, Jack Patterson of WRBL - Columbus, Marvin James of 13WMAZ in Macon, Phil Jones of ITG Next, and the voice of Football Fridays in Georgia, Matt Stewart as they share their views on the 2024 GHSA playoff picture. 
Published 11/13/24
As the playoff picture starts to come into focus, Jon and Hannah welcome two region champion coaches to the podcast: Appling County's Jordan Mullis, the Region 3-2A champion, and Colquitt County's Sean Calhoun, the Region 1-6A champion.
Published 11/05/24
Published 11/05/24
In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, the team explores the intense final weeks of the high school football regular season, with playoffs just around the corner. While some region champions have been crowned, other parts of the state are facing mathematical complications to see who will reign in their respective region. Special guests include Lowndes Vikings head coach Adam Carter and Fannin County head coach Chad Cheatham.
Published 10/29/24
In this action-packed episode, we cover Richmond Hill's stunning upset over Valdosta, Roswell's region title push, and other key matchups around the state. Plus, you may discover your new favorite restaurant after suggestions from the Richmond Hill and Roswell coaches and hosts, Hannah and Jon.     
Published 10/22/24
This episode of Football Fridays in Georgia explores the latest developments in the GHSA, including safety initiatives, competitive balance discussions, and schedule changes. In-depth interviews with coaches Shane Queen and Matt Burleson provide insights into the challenges and rewards of coaching in the new six-classification system and navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Published 10/16/24
A Georgia high school football coaching legend, Alan Chadwick of Marist, joins the podcast to discuss navigating this year's erratic season. Plus, we'll hear from Irwin County head coach Casey Soliday and find out the impact of Hurricane Helene. After a week of upsets, this episode highlights the chaos that is the 2024 Georgia high school football season. 
Published 10/08/24
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, what is the plan for making up football games? What will happen to the playoff schedule? Dr. Hines and Dr. Scott of the GHSA join Jon and Hannah to answer those questions and more. In this episode we learn more about NIL in Georgia, the future of reclassification, and how the GHSA is dealing with the chemical fire in Rockdale County. 
Published 09/30/24
In this episode, you'll get a closer look at the Camden County Wildcats, led by head coach Travis Roland. Hear about their impressive start to the season and their upcoming showdown against Valdosta. And we preview the highly anticipated Grayson Rams vs. Newton Rams matchup with Grayson head coach Santavious Bryant. This showdown will determine the top spot in their region. Plus, thanks to Hannah Goodin, you will learn the meaning to the phrase "it was literally like a soup in my crockpot."
Published 09/24/24
It is time for region play! Plus, we have interviews with Creekside Seminoles head coach Maurice Dixon and Peach County Trojans head coach Marquis Westbrook.
Published 09/17/24
Many teams across Georgia travel 250 miles or more to play road games. As a coach, how do you deal with five-hour road trips? On this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, Jon Nelson is joined by Valdosta Head Coach Shelton Felton and Toombs County Head Coach Buddy Martin to discuss how their teams win on the road.     
Published 09/10/24
Last Friday, Mary Persons in Forsyth, GA hosted a team from British Columbia, Canada. In this episode, Jon Nelson talks with New Westminster Offensive Coordinator Darnell Sikorski and Mary Persons Head Coach Brian Nelson to discover how this match-up came to be. Plus, we get an update on Bremen's injured QB, Carson Kimball, and a preview of Douglas Co v. Langston Hughes. 
Published 09/04/24
Ahead of the Rome vs. Carrolton game this weekend, Jon and Hannah talk with Trojans head coach Joey King about coaching one of the top players in the state, Juju Lewis. Then, Savannah Christian head coach Baker Woodward talks making a comeback in 1A with the Raiders.   
Published 08/27/24
Week one is in the books! Join Jon and Hannah as they break down the big upsets and even bigger wins. Hear from Cartersville's Head Coach, Conor Foster, and preview this week's match-up with Rockmart. And Gordon Central's Head Coach, Lenny Gregory, joins the podcast to celebrate a huge win! 
Published 08/20/24
The Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast All-Stars join Jon and Hannah to preview the 2024 season. Reclassification has shaken up a lot of regions across the state with some teams set to face multiple defending state champions in region play. Todd Holcomb of the Georgia High School Football Daily, Phil Jones of ITG Next, Jack Patterson and Tyler Redmond of WRBL - Columbus, Marvin James of 13WMAZ in Macon, and the voice of Football Fridays in Georgia, Matt Stewart give their predictions for the...
Published 08/13/24
On this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia Podcast Jon and Hannah are joined by coaches from all over the state to talk pre-season preparations, championship hopes, and their dealings with Hurricane (Tropical Storm) Debby.  Plus, find out which region is Georgia's "high school SEC."
Published 08/06/24
In the final episode of the summer for Beyond the Lights we take a look at one of the most important aspects of high school football in Georgia: the food. Is the famous Billy Burger at Toombs County the best concession stand treat in all of the Peach State?  Some people think so. 
Published 07/30/24
Two new head coaches face new challenges in South Georgia: David Shores at Brantley County and John Mohring at Wayne County. Both coaches, coming from assistant positions at other schools, are excited about their new teams. Shores, looking to build on Brantley County's tradition, emphasizes explosive offense and physical defense. Mohring, stepping up to a larger program at Wayne County from Savannah Country Day, welcomes the opportunity to develop players within a strong football culture,...
Published 07/17/24
Hannah Goodin delves into football health and safety with Dr. Stephen Brown, an orthopedic and sports medicine specialist from the Rome Orthopedic Center. Dr. Brown, with his extensive background as a former football player and team physician for top teams, shares crucial insights on injury prevention, the importance of hydration and acclimatization, and the benefits of cross-training. He also offers valuable advice for coaches, parents, and athletes on maintaining open communication about...
Published 06/25/24
In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast: Jon and Hannah talk with Clinch County head coach Jim Dickerson, fresh and energized after a brief retirement and back to continue his impressive winning streak with the Panthers. He'll tell us what it's like returning to the Coach's chair in Homerville after two consecutive state championships. Also: safety tips for a fun-filled Summer, and more!
Published 06/12/24
In this episode, we sit down with John Koon, a veteran play-by-play announcer (and mayor of Soperton, Georgia!) With nearly 43 years of broadcasting experience, John shares his unique journey, from his early days at Treutlen High School to becoming the voice of the Vidalia Indians. Discover the highs and lows of calling games, the evolution of high school sports, and the passion that drives him. Tune in for wild football tales, insights into game day preparations, and the secrets behind...
Published 05/31/24
In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, hosts Hannah Goodin and Jon Nelson dive into the significance of high school football camps. They discuss how these camps help players and coaching staffs refine their skills, foster team bonding, and build competitive spirit ahead of the regular season. Special guest Roswell Head Coach Chris Prewett explains the value of camps, from preparing athletes for unexpected situations to building camaraderie among teammates. This heartfelt...
Published 05/09/24
In this episode, host Hannah Goodin delves into the world of high school football recruiting through the eyes of Amy Hecklinski, mother of 2023 GPB Offensive Player of the Year Jeremy Hecklinski. Amy discusses the unique challenges and triumphs of raising a scholarship-level athlete, offering insights into the intense pressures, critical decisions, and pivotal moments that come with guiding a young athlete from high school to college football. Learn about the sacrifices, support, and values...
Published 04/30/24
In this episode of the Football Fridays in Georgia podcast, Jon Nelson and Hannah Goodin discuss the exciting world of high school football coaching transitions. They catch up with head coaches Maurice Freeman, Jeff Littleton, and Kurt Williams as they embark on new journeys and face new challenges. 
Published 04/17/24
Hannah Goodin delves into the world of high school football officiating with special guest James Arnold. With 38 years of officiating experience under his belt, James offers a unique perspective on what it takes to be a football official in Georgia. From handling pressure-packed moments on the field to navigating video review protocols, James shares invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of officiating. Discover how officials are trained, evaluated, and constantly striving to...
Published 03/26/24