Photo Credit: @nchsphotography2026
COLLEGE PARK, Ga. – The North Clayton Eagles are making a strong push toward the postseason, and their latest performance is another indication that this program is heading in the right direction. In the annual Clayton County Public Schools (CCPS) Southside Classic, the Eagles delivered a dominant 51-8 victory over the Riverdale Raiders. The convincing win improved North Clayton’s overall record to 4-3 and provided some much-needed momentum as the team enters its bye week. With the regular season winding down, North Clayton currently sits at No. 22 in the Class 4A power rankings, putting the Eagles in a promising position to potentially secure a playoff berth for the second consecutive season.For a program looking to establish consistency and build a winning culture, returning to the postseason would represent another significant step forward.
With North Clayton entering its bye week, maintaining focus and keeping his players motivated will be critical as the Eagles prepare for the final stretch of the regular season. I had an opportunity to ask Coach Burnett how he plans to keep his team focused during this important period of the season. Burnett emphasized the principles that have helped establish the foundation of his program.
“I have to continue letting them know we’re going to focus on the 4 D’s: Discipline, Dedication, Determination and Dedication,” Burnett explained.
His message is clear. Regardless of the opponent, the team’s record, or its position in the rankings, the Eagles must continue to embrace the principles that have contributed to their success. For North Clayton, discipline and preparation will be just as important as the talent on the football field.
A Chance to Build Something Special
One of the biggest challenges in high school football is not simply reaching the playoffs, but building a program capable of competing for postseason opportunities year after year. That is exactly what North Clayton is attempting to accomplish under Burnett’s leadership. At 4-3, the Eagles have experienced their share of challenges this season. However, their ability to remain in the playoff conversation speaks to the progress the program continues to make. The 51-8 victory over Riverdale was more than just another win. It was an opportunity for North Clayton to build confidence and demonstrate what this team is capable of accomplishing when everything comes together. Now, the challenge becomes carrying that same energy into the remaining games. Sitting at No. 22 in the Class 4A power rankings, the Eagles have positioned themselves for a potential postseason appearance. However, with important games still ahead, there is little room for complacency.
Looking Ahead: Fayette County Comes to Southern Crescent
North Clayton will have an opportunity to regroup during its bye week before returning to action on October 23, when the Eagles host Fayette County at Southern Crescent Stadium. The matchup could prove significant as North Clayton continues its pursuit of a second consecutive playoff appearance. For Burnett and his coaching staff, the additional week of preparation provides an opportunity to evaluate areas that need improvement, address mistakes, and ensure the Eagles are ready for the challenges ahead.
North Clayton has already shown flashes of what it can accomplish this season. The question now is whether the Eagles can turn those flashes into consistent performances when the stakes become even higher. And if the Eagles continue playing with the same intensity they displayed in their Southside Classic victory, North Clayton could be a team worth watching when the Class 4A playoffs begin.
