Here are three surprise outcomes that stand out following last week’s prep football games across Georgia and Tennessee:
› Successful position swap: For the majority of Brayden Carroll’s prep career, the 6-foot-2, 190-pounder has been a standout at both the wide receiver and defensive back positions. After getting in the mix at running back this season for Bradley Central, the 3-star prospect, rated the Volunteer State’s No. 31 overall recruit in the Class of 2026, aced his quarterback debut in Week 8.
Carroll completed 16 attempts for 197 yards and four touchdowns in a 40-6 win over Soddy Daisy. Of that passing yardage total, 112 went to speedy senior slot receiver Reggie Hubbard, who finished with 11 catches and two scores.
Having been solid all season already — outscoring opponents 228-74 — the Class 6A Bears, who improved to 6-2 overall, may have found a new recipe for success. Carroll wasn’t the only one to star in a new role as Brady Lewis, who had played tight end prior to last Friday, was a force at running back with 109 yards on the ground against the Trojans.
› Eagles’ offensive resurgence: There were several question marks surrounding Signal Mountain’s offense after scoring 51 points through the first four games of the season. Even a 29-point showing in the season opener at Central was a little worrisome after only scoring seven points in the second half.