And we’re off! The first round of state tournaments are done, and we have new matchups to obsess over for a short period of time before Friday. Here are five between 4A and 3A that we’ll be keyed in on. 

Pace at Walnut Grove: This is a popcorn-worthy game on paper. Both teams have talent up and down their rosters. Walnut Grove is white hot and Marcus Smith is putting everyone on notice. On the other side, the Pace machine under Sharman White can never be counted out. A roster full of young talent, Pace has grown up quickly with their tough schedule. 

Madison County at Lovett: Christian Anderson and Lovett have momentum on their side. They’re riding a hot streak at the right time. Folks from the Atlanta area shouldn’t sleep on Madison County. The Red Raiders have plenty of talent on their roster with guys like Jay Carruth and Grant Smith among others. This is one of the more intriguing second-round games in the state regardless of class. 

Monroe at Cross Creek: The Golden Tornadoes go on the road to face the 3A power Cross Creek. Monroe has been a power in their own right over the last few seasons. They’ve been racking up 20-win seasons left and right. One of the most prominent storylines in all of Georgia is whether or not Cross Creek can 3-peat, so this game is one we’ll be monitoring. 

Cedar Grove at Monroe Area: This is one is worthy of a final four. These are the best teams from this portion of the bracket. Cedar Grove has the star power with a fabulous freshman like Manny Green while the Purple Hurricanes have stormed through their schedule with less than a handful of losses. The winner is our final four favorite. 

Bainbridge at Fayette County: This is a tricky spot for a talented team like Fayette County, The Tigers are the traditional favorite, but Bainbridge has had a dominant season that saw them lose only twice. While they operate off of the radar of many from the Atlanta metro, the Bearcats could open eyes with a win in the second round.