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Time for your crow. How do you like it cooked?

This must be Greg Scott.

Once again, Milan has advanced and this thread is about the game. Save the other stuff for somewhere else at some other time.

This is not a good look for Rankin. He has spent his entire career beating up on teams who were outclassed by his teams at Smith County, Riverdale, and Alcoa. Now that the shoe is on the other foot, he has an issue with it.

If Milan wins does the academy students get a ring?

Macon County has a generational type of team and this small community deserves a championship and I for one hope they get it. For years I coached and my boys played in small county schools and it is extremely difficult for that kind of program to win a state championship because of the inherent disadvantages these type of schools have vs the schools with the same number of students that are located closer to a metropolitan area. However what I have noticed is every so often when the stars align, when you get these type of kids with good coaches they ARE really good! It doesn’t happen every year or every other year but it does happen! And this is one of those years for Macon County. This year the legacy kids, who’s mom and dad went to MC, who’s Grandma and Grandpa walked the halls of Macon County are MORE than good they are great! You can’t help but root for this team and this community. And yeah next year will probably go back to the status quo but in 2024 let’s give the boys of fall from Macon County their due diligence and I for one am rooting for them to win it all!

He should win it! Macon has beaten 3 finalists in 3 weeks and Gabe Borders has out played all of them.

Larue is a great player! And I want to say no other visiting team as ever brought the noise and intensity that Anderson county did. It was an all time classic high school football game and could have went either way.

Pulling for Milan for two reasons: 1) My guy @BIGPURPLEMACHINE 2) To see the reaction on the T

Milan High School’s Shameless Reclassification Scheme In 2020, the Milan High School football team suffered yet another defeat at the hands of Alcoa in the 3A state championship. For most schools, this would have been a motivating challenge – an opportunity to rise to the occasion. But Milan’s administration decided to take a different path. Rather than face the possibility of another rematch with the state powerhouse, they sought a way to avoid Alcoa altogether. Their solution? A reclassification that would take them out of 3A and into 4A football, effectively dodging one of the most formidable teams in Tennessee high school football. But that move didn’t go quite as planned. The Milan High School Academy: A Deceptive Scheme In 2021, in response to a disappointing season in 4A, Milan’s administration implemented a new strategy: they launched the so-called “Milan High School Academy.” The academy was presented as a cutting-edge educational initiative, promising unique opportunities for students. But in reality, the “academy” was nothing more than a clever ruse to manipulate enrollment numbers and gain an unfair advantage in the TSSAA classification process. Despite its lofty name, the Milan High School Academy was essentially a designation for underperforming students who did not participate in athletics. It wasn’t a separate building, nor did it come with additional resources or programs. Academy students attended the same classes as their peers, earned the same diplomas, and received no additional support beyond what was available to all Milan students. The only real distinction? Academy students were barred from participating in sports. So what was the purpose of the “academy”? The answer is simple: it was an attempt to artificially lower the enrollment numbers at Milan High School, thereby allowing the school to qualify for a lower athletic classification. By designating certain students as part of the “academy” and excluding them from athletics, Milan could reduce its reported enrollment figures and secure a spot in 2A, rather than 3A, which was the school’s rightful classification. The Unprecedented and Unethical Decision of the Board of Control In March 2024, the TSSAA Board of Control was alerted to Milan’s questionable tactics. However, rather than addressing the issue, the Board took an unprecedented step that further exacerbated the situation. In an unexpected move, the Board voted to use May enrollment figures—rather than the traditional August numbers—when determining classifications for the upcoming cycle. This decision, made in August 2024, was not included in the official agenda, and the affected schools were given no opportunity to voice their concerns before the vote. In fact, the vote was passed with a 12-0 margin, despite the face that four board members who represented private schools had no stake in the decision, as their schools’ enrollment numbers were still going to be submitted in August. The result of this vote? Milan, whose enrollment figures were artificially deflated by the creation of the Academy, remained in 2A football, despite its historical placement in 3A. This move was a direct result of Milan’s manipulation of enrollment numbers, and it allowed the school to avoid tougher competition in the coming years, including the powerhouse team, Alcoa, which has since reclassified to 4A. The Consequences of Milan’s Strategic Move Under the TSSAA’s 6-classification system, Milan had been competing in 3A football since its inception. But by creating the Milan High School Academy and using the altered May enrollment data, Milan successfully managed to secure a place in 2A football for the next four years. This was a strategic move designed to avoid competition from larger, more competitive programs and to secure easier opportunities for championship titles. But Milan’s reclassification has not only benefited the school—it has also displaced other schools that were forced to compete in a classification that no longer reflects the true competitive landscape. Schools in rural West Tennessee, for example, were left to face a Milan team that no longer belonged in 2A, further distorting the competitive balance in the region. The decision to reclassify Milan based on artificially reduced enrollment numbers has created an unfair advantage that undermines the integrity of the TSSAA classification system. For the next four years, Milan’s success will be built on this fraudulent foundation, and any victories won will be tainted by the knowledge that the school manipulated the system to achieve them. Milan’s Manipulation of Districts and Regions The fallout from Milan’s reclassification extends beyond football. Milan’s new classification has also affected the districts and regions they compete in for other sports. Historically, Milan was part of District 14 in Class 2A, where they competed against schools like Gibson County in sports like baseball, basketball, and softball. However, Milan’s strategic reclassification moved them into District 12, a far more favorable grouping for their athletic programs. This move has allowed Milan to avoid tough competition in a number of sports, particularly baseball and basketball, where District 14 was known for its strength. By shifting into a less competitive district, Milan has given itself a clear advantage—one that other schools in the region now have to contend with, all because of a cynical manipulation of the system. A Corrupt Process? While the TSSAA is not inherently corrupt, Milan’s actions—along with the TSSAA Board’s approval of those actions—raise serious questions about the fairness and integrity of the entire classification process. Milan’s administration has exploited the system for its own benefit, creating an environment where the spirit of competition has been overshadowed by self-serving tactics. Coaches and players at Milan High School today may have no direct involvement in this scheme, but they will inevitably feel the repercussions of the backlash from other schools and communities who see their actions as a betrayal of the competitive spirit that high school sports should embody. As for Milan’s administration, which has attempted to justify the creation of the academy, their claims fall short of convincing. The principal, who did not start the Academy but now defends it, has made several dubious statements in an attempt to justify Milan’s reclassification: 1. “Tennessee’s Innovative Schools Model allowed us to create a separate Academy that meets on our campus to better serve those students.” In reality, the “Academy” was not just a new program, it was a rebranding effort designed to reduce enrollment numbers. It was not just a school-within-a-school but also an exclusionary measure. 2. “Students in the Academy have WBL placements that match their elective focus and support the field of study.” This is a common practice in nearly every school in Tennessee, as Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs have been around since 1984 and are available to all students, not just those in the so-called “Academy.” 3. “Our numbers have not rebounded post-COVID.” Milan’s enrollment numbers which had been artificially reduced by the creation of the Academy, suddenly “rebounded” in August of 2024, showing a total of 610 students. However when the reclassification vote was made based on May’s numbers, the school reported 523 students—just five below the cutoff for 2A classification. Conclusion: A Fraudulent Victory Milan High School’s manipulation of the TSSAA reclassification process has exposed a systemic flaw in the way classifications are determined. While the administration may have won a short-term victory by reclassifying to 2A, the consequences for other schools, and for the integrity of high school sports in Tennessee, will be felt for years to come. Milan’s fraudulent move undermines the very principles of fairness and competition that are supposed to be governed by the TSSAA. Milan may have secured a favorable classification, but it has lost something far more valuable: the respect of the entire state. It’s important to note that the TSSAA’s hands are tied. The Executive Director and his staff are at the mercy of the Board of Control. The Board of Control has been corrupted by a member from Milan High School. Moreover, of the 12 votes cast to use May’s numbers, 4 Board members saw their school play in a lower classification. The other 8 members’ schools were not affected. To the Board of Control: At most, you should do the right thing and start this entire classification process over. At minimum, issue an apology to Halls High School who will be playing 2A because of Milan, Forrest High School who will be playing 3A because of Milan, Milan’s district opponents, their families and communities who will be driving 90 minutes for district basketball, baseball, and softball games. Or, Board of Control, continue to be corrupted by one of your members and negatively impact thousands of athletes, their families, and communities. None of you will ever have to wear the negative fallout of all of this. TSSAA Executive Director Mark Reeves, a good man whom you all hired, will unfortunately be the face of this corruption.

Gabe was "blocked" or he may have got the tackle on that play, though LaRue probably does have the better top line speed. What makes the Borders great are the intangibles to me. They seem to always be in the right place to make the play. I fully expect Melrose to have great team speed as well. They beat a well coached and talented PC team, which is very impressive. The misdirection may be effective for MC if they over pursue.

Geno is on his sack… can’t get much closer than that…

Yes like Marion Co. maybe Milan and South Pitt can shock the world next week.

If McDonald’s ever stops having free Wi-Fi these Huntingdung posters will vanish like a fart in the wind…

Mr. Football has turned into a pure joke. If #7 for Macon ant a Mr. Football finalist I have seven toes on one foot and three ears.

Probably the two most talented teams meet up in 2A Championship Game. Milan and Comer will be very prepared. He has been here before many times. Marion is absolutely rolling right now on offense. Pickett & Company will look to show out. Marion’s offense is extremely explosive. If Milan can make it a 4 quarter game I like them in a tight one. If Marion scores 14+ within the first half I think Marion rolls. Milan can’t get into a high scoring game with the Warriors. Just depends on the flow of the game. I am just keeping it real

Memphis population 1,386000. SP 3,100 up hill battle but I have confidence in Wes and his young whipper snappers. Pirates 1+

Knox Powell guy needs his Depends. 🤷‍♂️

We had chances to win some in the past but Vic did a lot for SP. I don’t think fraud is really fair. He also coached during a time when he had to deal with the privates. That does make a difference.

I was proud of Maryville's effort last night. Maryville had their chances but didn't capitalize . I enjoyed watching this team play. Oakland has a great program.

I thought this was the year for McKenzie and didn’t think they would have much trouble if they got to championship game. Hats off to MASE for beating a really good team so I will say MASE wins by 2 TD’s. Great season for South Pitt, sounds like you all exceeded expectations! Impressive

I honestly think getting a Memphis public school to the championship game is as impressive, if not more impressive of a coaching feat, than winning a state championship at a perennial powerhouse

I feel your pain!!

Congrats to McKenzie on a great season. Football is a game of momentum, and hats off to MASE for not folding and continuing to fight. I was getting updates throughout the game and when the Rebels were up 18 to 0, I thought this might be a running clock situation. Great game and comeback MASE. Go get that Gold Ball. What a season y'all have had so far.

This poster is very wise and has seen Marion up close. It appears Milan has no chance.

It’s truly sad that all teams are playing for second place except for Alcoa. It’s not fair that good teams cannot win a state championship because of them. I am glad they are moving up divisions (long overdue) but it infuriates me that teams like Westview and Milan (who lost to them many times in the 2010s, 2020) can not win a gold ball because of them. I hope they enjoy another state championship sandbagging in a division they should not be playing in. I don’t blame Milan for staying away from them by forming an Academy in their school. Alcoa should be ashamed.

I miss him.

What a complete meltdown for the Rebels.

Great job guys. From top to bottom , from week 1 till now, great job. Still work to be done. Still have much to prove. Enjoy this one and get back to work at daylight. Go Pirates!!

Congrats to Westview solid football team with a lot of fight! Great offensive play calling by Westview offensive coordinator.

Ok,now do you see what I'm was saying.I have dealt with you Pirates WAAAY too many times to think an average or slightly above ave Coalfield or OS team can compete when you all are rolling.I said 21 and I was dang close.Good luck next week.Your Coaching staff and players have done an outstanding job.Just shows you how good those SP/GB teams a few years back really where.

It's a long story with a back story Bill, but I'll shorten it to MASE's Coach isn't comparable to the other coach in question. No slight intended toward MASE either, just stating facts about a retired coach from East Tn. with a pocketful of championship rings. Congrats to your kids and fans...you'll be favored, but that team that you'll meet will have a lot of ghosts standing with them.

Buddy please! The refs had zero outcome. This game was physical and it showed. 2nd half was a running game and it went Oakland’s way. Stop with the nonsense , you had a chance to knock them out 13-7 in the 3rd!

Well reality is your team is never even in this conversation that you always insert yourself into this time of year

Alcoa has a nobody defense? LoL, I’d love to see Alcoa and Mt Juliet play !

You’re hurt.it’s ok bud, better luck next time.

Congrats to Fairley on a good season but they can not have all those self inflicted wounds and expect to beat the good teams. They absolutely could’ve came away with a win tonight had it not been for all those early stupid mistakes. Congrats to Milan; go get the Gold!

Whatever you say Stork … that’s the worst attempt at airing a game on NFHS I’ve ever seen, apparently you clowns need a redneck down there to plug something in

It’s also pathetic how sensitive y’all are to me on here. Like middle school girl sensitive. This board isn’t just about handing out roses to eachother. Get some thick skin chump.

Saying this when maryville literally lived in TSSAA officials pockets for years is crazy work.

Could have been worse if the mercy rule didn’t make the clock run!

Couldn’t happen to a better team.

York must’ve thought the game was last night.

Any minute now , get some fresh gerbils

The Stork/NFHS broadcast

This is an Oakland problem not an NFHS problem. Look how clear the ADs are. Their "pipe" (bandwidth) is not able to handle all the info and get it to NFHS. I bet they are on WiFi. SMH This is on you Stork.

Will Anderson co fans be hand cuffed and ushered out of the stadium if they sit on the Macon co side tonight? Asking for a friend?

Exactly that's a good plan but I have seen Macon makes some good passes not consistent but the Mavs will need to be prepared.

"If I pick them to lose every week I'll be right eventually"