This 94 year old rivalry has been known to be one of the best in the state. Elbert County leads the series 31-28 (although many more games were played by predecessor schools Hartwell and Elberton dating back to 1921). Hart County won 19-7 last year without Elbert County All-American QB Mecole Hardman.

MVP

Tra Barnett

Elbert

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Robert Allen

Hart (GA)

Mecole Hardman

Elbert

Mecole currently holds a 3.7 core GPA in college prep curriculum. He is a 4 year stand out for the Blue Devils. He has been selected to play in the US Army All American Game held in San Antonio, Texas on January 9, 2016. Mecole currently holds over 30 offers from colleges across the nation. Mecole is also a member of the Blue Devil Basketball and track teams.

HALL OF FAME

David Jackson

Hart (GA)

Clark Gaines

Elbert

Mr. Gaines is a graduate of ECCHS class of 1972. He played football for Lee’s McRae Jr College 1972-73, Wake Forest 1974-75. He was chosen as the ACC MVP in 1975 and was drafted by the New York Jets 1976. He was chosen AFL rookie of the year in 1976. He led the Jets in rushing 1976-77 and 1979. He led Jets in receiving in 1976-77. He has worked as a broadcaster on CBS Sports. Worked alongside Hall of Fame member Reggie Upshaw in the NFL Players Association. He has recently retired from his position with the NFL PA.

GAME SUMMARY

This year’s rivalry game was a different story, as Mecole (the No.1 ranked player in the state) struck early with an opening 15 yard TD run. In a rain soaked game, the Blue Devils were able to rack up 275 yards on the ground against Hart’s defense. Rivalry game MVP Tra Barnett ran back an interception to give Elbert county the victory 24-14, and move them two games closer to evening the record between the two schools.