Dunwoody Football: Path to Region Title and New Stadium

Dunwoody football faces Heritage of Conyers on Friday at North DeKalb Stadium for the Region 4-6A championship. The Wildcats enter the game with a 7-1 record and a six-game winning streak. Heritage is undefeated this season. This matchup determines the regional title holder before the playoff bracket expands.

Head coach Matt Schmitz credits the team's progress to a consistent identity. Schmitz served as offensive coordinator for three seasons before taking over in 2025. He stated, "We have a consistent feel for the game, and the players have been able to play with it." The team has maintained its structure since the early part of the year. Schmitz noted that the players understand the system and have executed it effectively.

Running back Bradley Stephens is the focal point of the offensive line. Stephens has rushed for 1,587 yards and 12 touchdowns this season. He has started every game. Schmitz described Stephens as a player who sees the field well. "He has been able to make plays in the open field," Schmitz said. Stephens has also shown growth in pass protection and blocking. Schmitz added, "He has been a pro in the backfield, and he has been able to control the line of scrimmage."

The defense has been a key factor in the team's recent success. Dunwoody has allowed only 14 points in its last two games. The unit has improved in both run prevention and pass coverage. Schmitz pointed to the growth of the young players on the defensive line. "They have been able to get after the quarterback, and they have been able to control the box," Schmitz said. The defense has generated pressure without relying on sacks. This approach has disrupted Heritage's offensive rhythm in previous matchups.

Dunwoody is seeking its first region title since 2008. The program won a state championship in 1993. The school is preparing to move into the 3,000-seat Ryan Seacrest Stadium next fall. This will be DeKalb County's first on-campus stadium. The construction project is on schedule for completion. The new facility will host home games for the Wildcats and other local teams.

The game is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. The Wildcats will look to extend their winning streak to eight games. Heritage has won its last nine games. The winner will advance to the next round of the playoffs. The loser will face a determined opponent in the consolation bracket. The result will determine the seeding for the upcoming playoff rounds.

Schmitz emphasized the importance of staying focused on the present. "We have to play one game at a time," he said. The team has prepared for a physical contest. Heritage is known for its strong running game. Dunwoody expects a high volume of run plays. The coaches have adjusted their scheme to account for this. The players have practiced these scenarios repeatedly throughout the week.

The atmosphere in the school is charged with anticipation. Students and staff have gathered to support the team. The new stadium project has generated excitement in the community. Local businesses have participated in spirit weeks. The game will be broadcast on the school's digital platforms. Fans can follow live updates on the team's social media channels. The final score will be available shortly after the game ends.