Creekview vs Calhoun | Georgia High School Football | August 15
On Friday, August 15, 2025, at 7:30 PM, the Creekview Grizzlies will face off against the Calhoun Yellow Jackets in an electrifying Georgia high school football matchup in Canton, Georgia. Hosted at Creekview High School’s stadium, this game will be streamed live on the NFHS Network, offering fans a chance to witness a thrilling season opener between two talented teams in the Georgia High School Association (GHSA). As both programs aim to set the tone for the 2025 season, this clash promises to deliver intense competition, showcasing the grit, skill, and community spirit that define Georgia high school football.
GHSA Powerhouses
The Creekview vs. Calhoun game marks the start of the 2025 season for both teams, pitting a Class 5A contender against a Class 3A powerhouse in a non-region showdown. Creekview High School, located in Canton, GA, is known for its strong athletic programs and vibrant community support. The Grizzlies have built a reputation for competitive football, with a 2024 season that included notable wins like a 55-24 rout of Pope High School, though they faced challenges against teams like Sprayberry and Woodstock. Calhoun High School, based in Calhoun, GA, enters the game fresh off a dominant 2024 season, culminating in a 20-7 victory over Jefferson to claim the GHSA Class 3A state championship.
This matchup is a rematch of sorts, as Calhoun defeated Creekview in the 2024 season, contributing to their strong campaign. The Grizzlies will look to flip the script on their home turf, while the Yellow Jackets aim to carry their championship momentum into 2025. With both teams boasting talented rosters and experienced coaching staffs, this game is set to be a battle of strategy, execution, and heart.
Team Breakdown: Creekview Grizzlies
2025 Season Outlook
The Creekview Grizzlies, competing in Class 5A, are determined to make a statement in 2025 after a mixed 2024 season that saw flashes of brilliance but also losses to region rivals like Sequoyah (21-14) and Sprayberry (41-21). Known for their resilience and athleticism, Creekview is led by a coaching staff that emphasizes discipline and teamwork. Playing at home in Canton, the Grizzlies will rely on their passionate fan base and a balanced approach to challenge Calhoun’s championship pedigree.
Key Players to Watch
- QB – Ethan Nichols (Senior): A poised leader, Nichols brings a strong arm and quick decision-making to Creekview’s offense. His ability to extend plays with his mobility will be critical against Calhoun’s aggressive defense.
- RB – J. Carter (Junior): Carter’s explosiveness and vision make him a threat to break big runs, providing balance to Creekview’s spread offense.
- LB – T. Williams (Senior): A standout middle linebacker and wide receiver, Williams is a two-way star whose physicality and instincts anchor the Grizzlies’ defense.
Strengths and Strategies
Creekview’s offense operates out of a spread formation, using Nichols’ passing to open up running lanes for Carter. The Grizzlies mix quick passes with read-option plays to keep defenses off balance. Defensively, Creekview relies on speed and aggression, with Williams leading a unit that excels at swarming to the ball and forcing turnovers. Playing at home gives the Grizzlies a significant advantage, as their fans create a raucous environment that can disrupt opponents.
Team Breakdown: Calhoun Yellow Jackets
2025 Season Outlook
The Calhoun Yellow Jackets, fresh off their 2024 Class 3A state championship, enter the 2025 season as one of Georgia’s premier small-school programs. With an 11-3 record in 2024 and a dominant playoff run that included wins over Stephenson (35-13) and Peach County (38-28), Calhoun is a force to be reckoned with. Led by a coaching staff with a track record of success, the Yellow Jackets are known for their disciplined play and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Facing a Class 5A opponent like Creekview on the road will test their mettle early in the season.
Key Players to Watch
- QB – Trace Hawkins (Sophomore): A rising star, Hawkins was a freshman phenom in 2024, throwing for nearly 1,900 yards and 23 touchdowns with just one interception. His poise and accuracy make him a dangerous weapon.
- WR – Justin Beasley (Senior): Beasley, with 18 touchdown receptions in 2024, is a reliable target who can stretch the field and make contested catches.
- DE – Jake Jordan (Senior): A defensive standout, Jordan’s interception in the 2024 state championship game showcased his playmaking ability. His pass-rushing skills will challenge Creekview’s offensive line.
Strengths and Strategies
Calhoun’s offense is a well-oiled machine, blending Hawkins’ precise passing with a physical running game. Beasley and tight end Emaree Winston, a Texas signee, provide explosive options in the passing game. Defensively, the Yellow Jackets are relentless, with Jordan and a stout front seven that excels at stopping the run and generating pressure. Their championship experience gives them an edge in close games, though the road environment in Canton will be a challenge.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | Creekview | Calhoun |
|---|---|---|
| Offensive Style | Spread (Balanced) | Pass-Heavy (Balanced) |
| Defensive Strength | Run Defense | Pass Rush |
| Key Playmaker | Ethan Nichols (QB) | Trace Hawkins (QB) |
| Home/Away Advantage | Home (Canton, GA) | Away |
| Recent Form | Mixed 2024 Season | 2024 Class 3A Champions |
This matchup pits Creekview’s home-field advantage and balanced attack against Calhoun’s championship pedigree and explosive offense. The Grizzlies will need to neutralize Hawkins’ passing to stay in the game, while Calhoun must contend with Canton’s raucous crowd.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Creekview’s Run Game vs. Calhoun’s Front Seven: J. Carter’s ability to find running lanes will be tested by Jake Jordan and Calhoun’s aggressive defensive line. Establishing the run is key for Creekview to control the clock.
- Calhoun’s Passing Attack vs. Creekview’s Secondary: Trace Hawkins and Justin Beasley will look to exploit Creekview’s defensive backs with deep passes. T. Williams and the Grizzlies’ secondary must stay disciplined to prevent big plays.
- Line of Scrimmage Battle: Both teams pride themselves on physicality up front. The team that dominates the trenches will likely dictate the game’s tempo.
- Special Teams and Turnovers: Calhoun’s 2024 state championship run featured key special teams plays, like a 48-yard field goal by Carlos Lopez. A big return or forced turnover could swing the momentum in this tight contest.
The Venue: Creekview High School Stadium
The game will take place at Creekview High School’s stadium, located at 1550 Owens Store Rd, Canton, GA 30115. This venue is a hub for the Canton community, where Grizzlies fans pack the stands to create an electric atmosphere. The home crowd will play a significant role in boosting Creekview’s energy. For those unable to attend, the game will be streamed live on the NFHS Network, ensuring fans can catch every moment from anywhere.
How to Watch Live
The Creekview vs. Calhoun game will be available to stream live on the NFHS Network, the premier platform for high school sports. Fans can access the stream at www.nfhsnetwork.com with a subscription, which offers high-quality coverage on devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones. To ensure a seamless viewing experience, sign up in advance and verify your account. The NFHS Network also provides access to game replays, highlights, and other GHSA content, making it a must-have for Georgia football fans.
Community Impact and Fan Expectations
High school football is a way of life in Canton and Calhoun, and this game will bring both communities together in a celebration of sport and spirit. Creekview’s Grizzly fans will fill the stands with red and navy, creating a sea of support for their team. Calhoun’s Yellow Jacket faithful will make the trip to Canton, bringing their championship pride in gold and black. Tailgates, pep rallies, and spirited support will set the stage for an unforgettable night.
Both schools emphasize sportsmanship and community, ensuring the competition remains respectful yet fierce. For the players, this game is a chance to shine on a big stage, with standout performances potentially catching the eye of college scouts. For the fans, it’s an opportunity to rally behind their team and celebrate the traditions that make GHSA football special.
Predictions and Outlook
Predicting this game is no easy task, given Calhoun’s championship experience and Creekview’s home-field advantage. The Yellow Jackets’ high-powered passing attack, led by Trace Hawkins, gives them an edge, but the Grizzlies’ balanced offense and raucous crowd could keep the game close. Expect a competitive, high-scoring affair that comes down to the wire.
Predicted Score: Calhoun 34, Creekview 28
Why This Game Matters
The Creekview vs. Calhoun matchup is a celebration of Georgia high school football, showcasing the talent, dedication, and community spirit that define the sport. For the Grizzlies, it’s a chance to upset a state champion and build momentum for a playoff push in Class 5A. For the Yellow Jackets, it’s an opportunity to prove their 2024 title was no fluke and establish themselves as a force across classifications. Whether you’re cheering in Canton or streaming on the NFHS Network, this game promises drama, excitement, and a showcase of everything that makes Georgia high school football unforgettable.
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