A Legacy Etched in Gold: Isaiah Crowell’s Hall of Fame Induction and a Big Week in Columbus Football

Every now and then, a player comes along who doesn’t just play the game — they redefine it. For Columbus, Georgia, that player was Isaiah Crowell. And now, his legacy is forever enshrined among the greats as he joins the Georgia High School Football Hall of Fame, Class of 2025.

Crowell’s career at George Washington Carver High School was nothing short of legendary. A rare combination of power, speed, and balance, he racked up 4,872 rushing yards on just 429 carries, averaging an astonishing 11.4 yards per carry, and finding the end zone 61 times. His senior season alone produced 1,721 yards and 18 touchdowns on only 147 carries — a nightmare for defenses and a highlight reel for fans.

Standing 5’11” and 210 pounds, Crowell was a force. But what made him special wasn’t just strength — it was acceleration. A track standout who clocked 10.91 seconds in the 100-meter dash, Crowell had breakaway speed that turned routine plays into jaw-dropping moments under the Friday night lights at A.J. McClung Stadium. His junior year was equally dominant, adding 1,915 yards and 25 touchdowns, solidifying Carver as one of the state’s most feared teams.

Crowned the No. 1 running back in the nation by multiple recruiting outlets in 2011, Crowell became a household name far beyond the Chattahoochee Valley. Yet, despite national fame, he never forgot his roots. His success brought pride to his community, proving that greatness doesn’t need to be imported — it’s born right here in Columbus. His Hall of Fame induction isn’t just about stats; it’s about legacy — a story of homegrown excellence and the lasting impact of one athlete’s journey. And as one legend’s name is etched into history, a new generation continues to make headlines across the Valley.

The St. Anne-Pacelli Vikings added another chapter to their home dominance on Friday night, extending their home win streak to six with a 28–16 victory over Westfield School. Quarterback Dustin Sherman was efficient and precise, throwing for 139 yards and two touchdowns on just ten attempts, while Donovan “DJ” Colvin powered the ground game with 94 rushing yards and a score. Defensively, Keyon Williams was a force — recording two sacks and a season-high nine tackles as the Vikings held Westfield to a mere 2.3 yards per carry. The victory evened Pacelli’s record at 5-5 and showcased a team hitting its stride at just the right time.

Across town, the Spencer Greenwaves were equally impressive, blanking the Columbus Blue Devils 28–0 in a statement win. The Greenwaves have now won five of their last six, improving to 5-4 while holding opponents to just over 10 points per game in that span. Columbus, now 7-2, saw its four-game winning streak snapped, but the Blue Devils remain one of the city’s most balanced squads heading into the final stretch.

Meanwhile, Shaw High found their rhythm again, snapping a four-game skid with a 32–0 shutout over Kendrick. The Raiders’ defense suffocated the Cherokees, forcing stops on nearly every possession and setting the tone early. The win lifted Shaw to 2-7, while Kendrick fell to 4-5, marking their third consecutive home loss. Shaw will take on Jordan this Friday in a matchup that could spark momentum heading into November.

As for Carver, the Tigers continued their march toward perfection with a 75–0 rout over Jordan. It was a statement game from start to finish — one that reminded everyone why the Tigers are among the state’s elite. Kelston Tarver led the way with 102 yards and two touchdowns, including a breathtaking 58-yard run, while Jakobe Caslin added 61 yards and two scores on just five carries. Carver now sits at 9–0, and their defense — allowing less than six points per game — remains the gold standard in the region.

Over in Phenix City, the Central Red Devils delivered another offensive explosion, cruising past JAG 62–6. Quarterback Bobby Coleman was nearly flawless, completing 90% of his passes for 223 yards and three touchdowns, while Jayshaun Woodhouse contributed 84 total yards and two scores. The defense also shined, with Tony Arnett and Elijah Brown each snagging interceptions, including a pick-six by Arnett. Central, now 9–1, has allowed just 11.8 points per game during their four-game win streak — a testament to their balance on both sides of the ball.

The week ahead promises more fireworks:

• Thursday, Oct. 30: Columbus vs. Sumter County @ Kinnett Stadium (7 PM)
• Thursday, Oct. 30: Carver vs. Kendrick @ Odis Spencer Stadium (7 PM)
• Friday, Oct. 31: Shaw vs. Jordan @ Kinnett Stadium (7 PM)
• Friday, Oct. 31: Hardaway vs. Spencer @ Odis Spencer Stadium (7 PM)
• Friday, Oct. 31: Northside @ Central Carroll (7:30 PM)

And for flag football fans, there’s action all week long as Northside, Carver, Hardaway, Jordan, Spencer, and Columbus continue to dominate local and regional competition.

From Isaiah Crowell’s Hall of Fame honor to Carver’s undefeated charge and Pacelli’s resurgence, the Chattahoochee Valley once again proved why it’s a heartbeat of high school sports in Georgia and Alabama. Every Friday night tells a new story — one of pride, perseverance, and passion. And as the postseason looms, one thing’s certain: the road to greatness still runs straight through Columbus.