The Brent Key/Corky Kell + Dave Hunter 7-on-7 Tournament will take over the Georgia Tech campus over the ensuing weeks to gather some of the best teams in the state to help prepare for the season.
Let’s take a glance at some of the teams to get a feel for what might hit the field on The Flats.
McEachern Indians
McEachern anticipates an exciting showing at the event and has been laser-focused on mastering the fundamentals across all phases of the game.
“We are always excited to compete, so anytime we get the opportunity to line up against anyone else, we relish that opportunity,” said coach Kareem Reid. “On the field, we have been reinstalling our base defense and offense, and special teams concepts. Our goal is to master the fundamentals of all three phases of the game.”
As McEachern steps onto the field, several standout players are expected to make significant impacts. Jayreon Campbell, a running back from the Class of 2026, has received numerous offers, including one from the University of Georgia. His performance will be crucial for McEachern’s offensive success.
Austin Brown, a safety from the Class of 2025, is regarded as the team’s second-best prospect overall and anchors the secondary. Additionally, Cam Traylor, a rising senior wide receiver from the Class of 2025, is poised for a breakout year, with his contributions on the offensive end being vital for McEachern.
With the second year under Coach Reid’s leadership, the Indians aim to improve on last season’s performance.
“I expect us to be better than last season, considering this is year two,” says Reid. “We should be able to improve in terms of how we function and play. I expect our execution to improve, which will lead to better outcomes in the win-loss column.”
Milton Eagles
Milton is coming off a stellar season with both a region title and a state championship, and the Eagles are preparing to showcase their continuous hard work on The Flats.
“Continuing to get bigger, faster, stronger. Anything that we accomplished last season doesn’t alter that and anything that we can’t accomplish this season doesn’t alter that either,” said coach Ben Reaves Jr. “The team’s philosophy revolves around maintaining a consistent, blue-collar work ethic. “We preach that our workrate and our process stay the same and never change.”
Key players to watch include Luke Nickel, a quarterback from the Class of 2025 committed to Miami, whose leadership and skills are expected to drive Milton’s offensive efforts. C.J. Wiley, a wide receiver from the Class of 2025, is regarded by his coach as arguably one of the best receivers in Georgia.
Ethan Barbour, a tight end from the Class of 2025, who is committed to Georgia is expected to play a pivotal role in his team’s offensive strategy. The cornerback duo of Dylan Lewis and Tyler Redman, both from the Class of 2025, are committed to Tennessee. Lastly, they have safety Ma’khi Jones who is committed to Duke.
“There are a lot of expectations for this team, and I just expect them to be the same guys with the same love-for-Milton attitude that they’ve had since I’ve known most of them as freshmen,” Reaves explains. “My expectation is more focused on them and their attitude and work ethic, and we will see what external accomplishments come with that.”
Peachtree Ridge Lions
Peachtree Ridge has grown exponentially since last year’s 10-2 season and entering the 7-on-7, head coach Matt Helmrich thinks that might make the opposition pay.
“Primarily getting bigger, faster, and stronger just like everyone else,” said Helmrich. “One of our team’s biggest strengths is our speed all around. Speed excels in 7-on-7, so we are extremely excited.”
Key players to watch include Dorian Barney, a defensive back from the Class of 2026. An All-State honorable mention, Dorian’s skills in the defensive backfield will be crucial to the team’s success.
A strong advocate for 7-on-7 competitions, Helmrich is enthusiastic about his team’s participation.
“The team is extremely excited to compete at Georgia Tech,” he said.
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