Calvary Day School returns to the biggest stage. Last time, it was in the Georgia Dome. Today, it’s the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Cavaliers play for a state championship for the first time since 2013, still seeking their first football state title. This is a defining moment for the perennial playoff program and an opportunity to close out a strong season.
Calvary Day enters with a 12-1 record as the No. 4 seed, ranked No. 3 in Class 3A-A private. Their only loss came in September to Jenkins, deciding the region title.
Hebron Christian holds an 11-1 record as the defending state champion. The Lions are the No. 2 seed, ranked No. 1 in the class. This is their first matchup with Calvary Day.
What to Know
Hebron Christian, the defending GHSA Class 3A-1A Private classification, has been strong all season. Its only loss was to McCallie, a Tennessee school. Against Class 2A and 3A-A private teams, Hebron has won each game by at least 16 points.
Devon Caldwell leads Hebron’s offense. He has rushed for 2,287 yards and 36 touchdowns. In his last two games, he ran for 616 yards and 11 touchdowns. Jarvis Mathurin is Hebron’s top receiver and a key playmaker. Max Steve leads the team in tackles and anchors the defense. The Lions’ defense has been opportunistic, recording 23 interceptions this season.
James Mobley leads Calvary Day’s offense. He has passed for 2,566 yards and 27 touchdowns. Jalen Hicks and MJ Knight are dependable targets in the passing game. Running back Ca’Den Jones finished strong late in the season. He had 135 yards and 144 yards in his last two games.
On defense, Calvary Day relies on its leaders up front. Kenneth Baker leads with 64 tackles (21 solo), seven tackles for loss, five sacks, and 14 hurries. Jeffrey McCormick adds 48 tackles, 19 for loss, eight sacks, and 17 hurries. Grady Shiver is a reliable kicker in close situations.
The Coach’s View
This game is about controlling the game with effort and focus. Calvary Day must tackle well, protect the football, and stay patient on offense. If the Cavaliers play together and trust their preparation, they will have a chance to win their first football state championship.
How to Watch
NFHS Network: Watch live or on demand
Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB): Watch the game live on TV on Channel 9 in Savannah or stream it online. Calvary Day vs. Hebron Christian championship game coverage starts at 1 p.m.
Class 3A-A Private State Championship
Calvary Day vs. Hebron Christian
When: Wednesday, 1 p.m.
Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
Calvary Day remains the final Savannah-area team playing for a state title. One game. One opportunity. A chance to make school history.
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PHOTO CREDIT: Calvary Day School Athletics Department
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