Following the season-opening win over Greene County, Putnam County is now looking to break a two-game losing streak.
Morgan County and Laney dominated the War Eagles the last two weeks, and this Friday’s matchup won’t be any easier. They will face undefeated Haralson County on the road, and the Rebels are rolling at this point in the season.
Haralson County is 3-0 for the first time since 2020 after defeating Mount Pisgah Christian (48-14), Pike County (28-0), and Greene County (41-7), which Putnam County defeated 42-15 in week one.
Haralson County head coach Randy Crutchfield has turned the program around after a dismal 1-9 finish last season.
So, the Rebels have the full attention of the War Eagles and head coach Joel Harvin.
“They are much improved compared to where they were last season at this time,” Harvin acknowledged. “Their coach has done a really good job of developing a solid program, a system that those kids can operate. And they execute it very well. And they run the ball hard. I think that what we need to be is very similar.”
Haralson County is a run-first team, but can also move the ball through the air. Quarterback Paxton Ray is a solid dual threat, along with Khemp Boyd, who runs the ball well and can catch passes downfield. Boyd accounted for three touchdowns against Greene County, catching two and rushing for one.
The Rebels have averaged 39 points per game on offense so far this season, while defensively allowing only an average of seven points per game.
Meanwhile, Putnam County’s defense has given up 46 points in each of the last two games. The War Eagles have struggled to get off the field on third down this season and need to improve on that this week in order to beat Haralson County.
The War Eagles have been limited on offense lately, too, scoring 30 points over the last two games. Penalties and turnovers have been a problem as well.
Harvin knows those mistakes need to be corrected and is confident his team can correct those errors this week.
“Whenever you lose, like we have in the last two weeks, and turn the ball over, just let the team you’re close with do that, and instead of going all the way back to the drawing board, take a hard look at yourself in the mirror,” Harvin stated.
“See what you’re good at and base your efforts on that. We have guys who play both ways and never come off the field. We’re working to develop some of the younger players who can spell these guys and give them a break on certain plays. This way, we can stay fresh for the fourth quarter.”
Last season, Putnam County beat Haralson County 28-3 in Eatonton. However, this year the Rebels are expected to get revenge and beat the War Eagles 34-22, according to On3.com’s Massey Ratings.
“I think it’s gonna be another challenge for us. And we have to keep soul-searching to find what we do well and keep moving forward,” Harvin said.