Bulldoggs bite is back

WINDER - It's hard to increase your win total fourfold, but that's exactly what the Winder-Barrow Bulldoggs have already done - just four games into the 2003 season.

Last week's 23-8 win over Heritage moved Winder-Barrow to 4-0 overall and in Region 8-AAAA. They were were a dismal 1-9 last year.

They will put their unbeaten streak on the line against Newton (1-2, 1-2) Friday night on the road. Newton lost to Salem last week, 17-6.

The difference for the turnaround? Coach Brian Allison says it's simple.

"I've had that question asked a lot and it's just the kids," he said. "They've come out with a different attitude this year but it's not just one thing. I think some of the other teams aren't as experienced this year as in the past while we are, plus we're playing pretty well."

The Bulldoggs, which feature primarily a running attack, are led by senior quarterback Tyler Wilcher. They've attempted just 38 passes all season, but have connected 23 times.

Senior Bakari Griggs leads the team in rushing and senior Scott Harris leads the team in receiving. They're averaging 27.5 points a game.

Allison said the defense, led by senior linebacker Travis Thurmond, has been outstanding. Winder has allowed just 49 points, but 28 of those came in a 31-28 win over Salem.

"We've played very well on defense except for a few plays against Salem," Allison said. "That's where it starts."

Winder has already beaten two of last year's region playoff teams - Salem and Heritage - and finish the year against the other two - Clarke Central and Cedar Shoals.

But Allison said first things first.

"We can't even think about those two until we get to them. We've been able to play well by taking it one at a time. I don't see any reason to look ahead - yet," he said.

In other Region 8-AAAA action, Cedar Shoals (3-0, 3-0) will travel to Heritage(2-2, 2-2) ; Habersham Central (0-3, 0-3) will play at Clarke Central (3-0, 3-0)and Rockdale County (0-2, 0-2) will play host to Eastside-Covington (1-2, 1-2).

Salem (2-1, 2-1) will travel to Jackson County (0-3, 0-3) while Loganville (1-2, 1-2) has the week off.