Gwinnett Daily Post

Erik Gossett

Pinecrest Paladins (5-A North)

Coach: Charles Wiggins

Record: 2-6, 0-5 subregion

Last week: Lost to King's Ridge 21-18

Wesleyan Wolves (5-A North)

Coach: Franklin Pridgen

Record: 5-2, 3-1 subregion

Last week: Had a bye

The Wolves had a bye week to get ready for what they hope will be a strong finish to the season, which concludes in two weeks with a play-in game to get into the state playoffs. Injuries have taken a toll on them at times this season, so a break to regroup was welcomed by head coach Franklin Pridgen, whose team also did a service project on the off week.

"We're rested and in good shape physically, so we're eager to get back to work," Pridgen said. "We're taking a playoff approach from here on out. Because we lost to Holy Innocents' and the quirky subregion we're in, every game is meaningful to making the state playoffs. There's a greater sense of urgency because of that."

First up is taking care of the underdog Paladins, who rely on a pass-heavy attack. The new program's passing game will test Erik Gossett, Zander Yost, Charles Mack and Jahmai Jones in the Wesleyan secondary.

The Wolves' offense also could be in for a big night. Since quarterback Will Anderson returned from an injury, the unit has rolled to wins over Pace Academy (44-21) and King's Ridge (39-13). Anderson has put up staggering passing numbers, as have his two favorite receivers, Eric Sunderman and Rodney Morris.

"We're looking forward to a good game," Pridgen said. "Pinecrest has improved a lot since last year."

Wesleyan still has a matchup at Mt. Pisgah next week to secure its seeding for the region play-in game.

Last meeting: Wesleyan won 50-7 last year

Directions to the Wesleyan School: From I-85, take I-285 west to Peachtree Industrial Blvd./Ga. 141 north exit. Veer to the left on Peachtree Parkway/Ga. 141 and turn right on Spalding Drive. School is on the left.