Class 5A Blog: Before the season starts, what team could win the wide open classification

The 5A classification may be the most wide-open of any class in the state. With some of Georgia’s top players spread across multiple programs, it should be one of the most exciting, and unpredictable, races in 2025.

Gainesville might be the most talented team in the class but is coming off back-to-back disappointing playoff exits. The Red Elephants have brought in multiple high-end transfers to complement star linebacker Xavier Griffin and star quarterback Kharim Hughley. With so much talent, the pressure now shifts to the coaching staff to put the pieces together and guide Gainesville to just the second state title in school history.

Milton, the two-time defending champion, may not be as loaded as last year but remains a serious threat to win it all again. Junior transfer quarterback Derrick Baker steps in to replace Luke Nickel under center, and he’ll have plenty of help, including elite 2027 tight end Grant Haviland.

In South Georgia, Thomas County Central is aiming for its second championship in three years. The Yellow Jackets are led by a deep wide receiver corps and returning starting quarterback Jaylen Johnson. On defense, 4-star edge rusher Cam Brooks anchors the front seven and will once again be a dominant force.

TCC’s region rival Lee County will also be in the hunt for the title. The Trojans are loaded with high-end talent, including 4-star Georgia commit Jordan Smith, who leads the defense from the safety position. Lee County is seeking its first championship since 2018 and first title game appearance since 2020, but has remained a perennial contender ever since.

Last year’s runner-up Langston Hughes returns much of its 2024 roster. While 4-star running back Carsyn Baker and 4-star tight end Xavier Tiller are back, starting quarterback Christian Langford has departed. Stepping in will be Darnell Kelly, who returns to the program after two seasons at Peachtree Ridge. Although the receiving corps still carries some question marks, the Panthers have the talent to make another deep playoff run.

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