With one state champion and a state semifinalist last season, Region 7-AAA was already tough enough.
As Friday night showed, 7-AAA may be even tougher this season.
One 7-AAA member, West Hall, won handily, defeating cross-town rival Johnson 35-0 to claim the 20th annual "Battle of Oakwood."
The Spartans, who went 3-7 last season, have much higher expectations for themselves in 2013.
Meanwhile, the Region 7-AAA schedule got off to an explosive start in Rabbittown, as Dawson County fought off East Hall 29-27.
The Tigers and Vikings combined for four touchdowns in the fourth quarter, as the two teams traded punches like two determined prize fighters.
The explosive contest featured two quarterbacks that caught fire, as Devin Watson compiled three passing touchdowns and a rushing score, while Zack Buchan threw four scoring strikes for the Tigers.
It's not going to be easy in any game this season in 7-AAA.
Check on our sports and Friday Game Night section for complete game stories from both Oakwood and Rabbittown.
Meanwhile, Towns County dropped its opener under new coach Blair Harrison, 20-0 to Hayesville, N.C.
And that was just scratching the surface. Next week, almost every area team will be in action... We can't wait.
FRIDAY'S AREA FOOTBALL FINALS:
West Hall 35, Johnson 0
Dawson County 29, East Hall 27
Hayesville, N.C. 20, Towns County 0
SATURDAY'S AREA FOOTBALL SCHEDULE:
5:30 p.m., North Gwinnett vs. Camden County (Georgia Dome)