North Hall vs Cedar Grove | 2018 GHSA Playoffs |

Relive one of the most memorable matchups from the 2018 GHSA AAA State Football Playoffs as the #9-ranked North Hall Trojans faced off against the defending back-to-back state champions, the Cedar Grove Saints, in a second-round clash full of grit, speed, and playoff intensity. This game pitted North Hall’s disciplined Wing-T offense against Cedar Grove’s overwhelming size and blazing speed.

In the 2018 GHSA Class AAA Second Round Playoff matchup, the #9-ranked North Hall Trojans traveled to face powerhouse Cedar Grove, the defending back-to-back state champions. Cedar Grove entered the game having allowed just 52 total points across five playoff games—a testament to their elite defense and explosive athleticism.

From the opening kickoff, Cedar Grove’s speed and physical dominance seemed too much for the Trojans. The Saints built a commanding lead early, using their size up front and lightning-fast skill players to control both sides of the ball. North Hall’s typically efficient Wing-T attack struggled to get traction against the relentless Cedar Grove front seven.

But this North Hall team didn’t come to Atlanta to roll over.

Down big, the Trojans showed heart and hustle in the second half. They began to find rhythm offensively, executing crisp misdirection plays out of their Wing-T formation to move the chains and put points on the board. The turning point came when North Hall successfully recovered multiple onside kicks, catching Cedar Grove off guard and clawing their way back into the game.

The Trojans’ 33-point performance was the highest any team scored against Cedar Grove in their championship run that year—a major statement from a program built on toughness and tradition.

Despite the comeback effort, Cedar Grove’s early lead and superior depth proved too much to overcome, as the Saints advanced to the next round and eventually captured their second straight state title. Still, North Hall’s never-quit attitude left a lasting impression and showed what playoff football is all about.

The game featured several top rated athletes such as Jadon Haselwood Oklahoma, Rashad Cheney USF, Christen Miller UGA and walk on Dan Jackson UGA