HOSCHTON — Edmond Graham wasn’t just a catalyst for Mill Creek on Saturday, he was a game-changer. Just ask two-time defending state champion Colquitt County.
The Packers may well have left the Georgia Dome believing there were two or even three Grahams on the field at any given time in their Kell Classic Showdown.
The Hawks' senior was everywhere, rolling up 164 all-purpose yards (59 rushing, 78 receiving and 27 return) and igniting Mill Creek with a pivotal blocked field goal in the first quarter to set the tone as the Hawks went on to avenge last season's state semifinal defeat -- and halt the Packers' 30-game win streak -- in a 34-27 victory.
For his efforts, Graham has been named the Locos Grill and Pub Friday Game Night Player of the Week. (NOTE: To watch a video interview with Graham and the presentation of his award, simply click "play" in the box above.)
Colquitt looked set to pick up where it left off in the showdown between the two foes, driving deep into Mill Creek territory on its opening possession. But Graham flipped the momentum with his layout block around left end. Two plays later he took a pitch around the left side for 45 yards to set up Mill Creek’s first touchdown.
Later in the first half his punt return got the Hawks within field goal range to close out the half with a 20-0 lead.
He then helped seal the win, roping in a Cameron Turley pass for a 41-yard gain to convert a gutsy third-and-6 call with 54 seconds left in the game. The Hawks then ran out the clock to notch a statement victory in Atlanta.
Graham's performance showed that Mill Creek's 2015 campaign -- during which it reached the state semifinals for the first time -- was no fluke. And area fans can expect to see plenty more of the senior and his Hawks in the coming weeks.
2016 Locos Grill and Pub Friday Game Night Players of the Week
Week 1 -- Edmond Graham, receiver, Mill Creek
