On a crisp Friday evening, November 14, 2025, the Ware County Gators traveled north to take on the Flowery Branch Falcons in the first round of the GHSA Class AAAA State Football Playoffs - and returned to Waycross with a hard-fought 44 - 27 victory. The win sends Ware County into the next round with confidence and momentum.
First Round Recap: How the Gators Did It
From the opening whistle, it was clear that Flowery Branch wouldn’t go quietly. The Falcons struck first, but the Gators responded before the end of the first quarter and never really let the momentum slip.
First Half: By halftime, Ware County had built a 19 - 10 lead. Their offense showed balance - mixing run and pass - while their defense made key stops.
Third Quarter Turn: Coming out of the break, the Gators scored a rushing touchdown and even converted a two-point attempt, pushing the lead to 27 - 10. Flowery Branch responded with a rushing score and a field goal, cutting the gap to 27 - 20, but the Gators refused to let up.
Closing It Out: In the fourth quarter, Ware County put the game away. They connected on a 30-yard field goal, then added two more rushing touchdowns - the first by senior running back Tayshaun Franklin, the second by Jamir Boyd - closing with an extra point to finish at 44 - 27.
Key Stats & Standouts
According to MaxPreps:
The Gators quarterbacked a 234-yard passing performance, while the ground game poured in 183 rushing yards.
Ware’s ability to produce big plays came when it mattered, especially in the second half.
On the season, Ware County is 9 - 2 overall.
This kind of offensive balance - nearly equal production in the air and on the ground — helped Ware keep multiple scoring threats on the field. Their defense, meanwhile, stepped up during critical moments.
Significance of the Win
This victory isn’t just another playoff win - it’s a statement from a veteran program. Ware County has long been a consistent playoff presence, and this win underscores their ability to execute under pressure. Their composure, discipline, and fight reflect the culture of a team that is built not just for regular season success, but for deep postseason runs.
Looking Ahead: Round Two Preview - Gators vs. Creekside
With the first round behind them, the Gators now set their sights on a major challenge: the #1-seeded Creekside Seminoles of Fairburn, Georgia. The next game is scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, with a 7:30 PM kickoff.
Creekside Seminoles: Who They Are
The Seminoles have put together an undefeated season, boasting a 11 - 0 record heading into the playoffs.
In Region 4-AAAA, Creekside went 7 - 0, dominating their region.
Their offense is lethal, especially on the ground. In their November 14 game vs. Dalton, Creekside rushed for 303 yards.
The Seminoles are coached by Maurice Dixon, a leader who has helped guide Creekside to its status as the top seed.
Strengths & Keys for Creekside
Powerful Rushing Attack: Their ground game is a core strength, capable of wearing down defenses.
Balanced Offense: While they run effectively, they are not one-dimensional - they mix in passing when needed.
Untarnished Momentum: With an undefeated record and dominant regional play, Creekside enters the playoffs with strong confidence.
Playoff Experience: As a top-seeded team, they know how to handle pressure and expect to go deep.
Gators’ Path to the Upset
If Ware County hopes to come away with a road playoff win against Creekside, they’ll need to play their best game yet. Here are some of the keys:
Sustain the Balanced Attack: The Gators must continue to leverage both their running backs and their passing game. If they lean too heavily on one, Creekside’s defense could adjust.
Win the Trenches: Controlling the line of scrimmage - both on offense and defense - will be critical. Creekside’s run game will test Ware’s front seven.
Create Turnovers: Big plays in the turnover department could swing momentum. A key interception or forced fumble could be the difference in a tight game.
Manage the Clock: Time of possession could be a huge factor. If Ware can sustain long drives, they may keep Creekside’s offense off the field, limiting big plays.
Special Teams Matter: Field position, big returns, and reliable kicking could all tip the balance.
Fan Info & What You Can Do
Date & Time: Friday, November 21, 2025, at 7:30 PM
Location: Creekside High School, Fairburn, GA
Tickets: Available for $12 via GoFan.co
For Ware County fans, this is a big opportunity. Traveling to Fairburn, bringing the green and gold, and supporting the Gators on the road could make a real difference.
Final Thoughts
Ware County’s 44–27 win over Flowery Branch was more than just a first-round victory. Now, they head into Round Two with a tall task ahead: facing the unbeaten, top-seeded Creekside Seminoles on the road. But if the Gators can play like they did in the opening round - disciplined, physical, and opportunistic - they’ve got a real shot at writing the next chapter of their playoff story.
Go Gators. Let’s bring the noise to Fairburn.
GO Gators!
For More Pictures: Please Click the Link Below:
11/14/2025: Ware @ Flowery Branch (Playoffs Round 1)
Photo Credits: Bo Carter