Stephens County prepares for another ranked foe

By Keith Farner

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

A week after a confidence-boosting shutout win over Seneca, it’s back to the grind for Stephens County.

The Indians (1-1) play host to LaGrange in their home opener this week, the second ranked opponent they’ve faced in three games. Stephens lost to No. 3 Flowery Branch to open the season and now faces No. 10 LaGrange this week.

“LaGrange is very much like Flowery Branch, just in a different way,” Indians coach Travis Noland said. “Where Flowery Branch was known for their offense, LaGrange is known for its defense.”

The Grangers (1-1) lost to Newnan in their opener, but beat Heard County last week, 34-7. Last year, they beat Stephens 30-6.

The Grangers are led by 6-foot-4, 230-pound senior quarterback Jamius Gunsby, who rushed for 123 yards and three touchdowns last week.

This is the first game that Indians fans will see a reduced ticket price. Instead of $7, Stephens’ games now cost $5 so that it’s more affordable for families.

The brightest story for the Indians this year has been the play of freshman Chaz Thornton, who has 35 carries for 256 yards and a touchdown in two games. Noland said Thornton’s vision and balance help him gain yards after contact.

“He’s a young back with hopefully a bright future with hopefully a long way to go,” Noland said.