Jeff Hart

Georgia's starters had a surprise when they ran onto the Sanford Stadium field for Wednesday's scrimmage.

No. 5 Alabama's new starting quarterback Greg McElroy succeeded Chase Daniel at his Texas prep powerhouse and marched the team to a state title. Now, the junior is taking over for the Crimson Tide's all-time leading passer, John Parker Wilson, on a team with national title aspirations.

Gainesville football coach Bruce Miller is hoping history does not repeat itself as his Red Elephants prepare for their season opener Friday against Chestatee at City Park Stadium.

Host Buford opened the Buford Invitational Softball Tournament with a 5-2 win over Wesleyan Wednesday.

The Lakeview Academy volleyball team split a pair of matches Wednesday against North Hall and Gainesville.

Flowery Branch improved to 2-1 in Region 7-AAA after taking a 5-2 win over Pickens Tuesday in softball action.

Clemson will play in a Thanksgiving weekend tournament that includes six teams that made the 2008-2009 postseason.

Coach Mike Smith is still waiting for two starters to win jobs on the left side of the Atlanta Falcons' defense. Chauncey Davis is trying to beat out Jamaal Anderson at end, and Brent Grimes is trying to hold off competition at cornerback.

The Atlanta Hawks signed free agent forward Joe Smith on Tuesday to address the team's lack of inside depth.

Tennessee center Josh McNeil will undergo knee surgery and miss some playing time, coach Lane Kiffin said Tuesday.