The Habersham Central Raiders wrapped up their 2025 football campaign with a season defined by explosive offense, standout individual performances, and one of the most balanced statistical years the program has produced in recent memory.
A Powerful Ground Attack
The Raiders showcased a high-powered rushing attack, finishing with 2,067 yards on the ground and averaging nearly 188 rushing yards per game. The heartbeat of that production was senior running back Donnie Warren, who delivered one of the greatest single-season performances in Raider history. Warren rushed for 1,647 yards and 20 touchdowns, averaging a remarkable 149.7 yards per game while posting a 7.0 yards-per-carry average.
He was complemented by quarterback Paris Wilbanks, who not only contributed six rushing touchdowns but also led the passing game with 1,573 yards and 14 touchdowns through the air. His pocket presence and accuracy helped the Raiders maintain one of the most balanced offenses in the region.
Playmakers Through the Air
Junior wide receiver Jay Feltus emerged as a centerpiece of the passing game, catching 43 passes for 718 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 16.7 yards per reception.
Supporting weapons — Tylon Davis, Drake Roland, and Donnie Warren — combined for more than 800 yards receiving and seven additional touchdowns, giving Wilbanks a deep and versatile arsenal.
Electric Special Teams Moments
One of the most memorable highlights of the entire season came on a Jay Feltus 90-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
In total, Habersham racked up 629 kickoff return yards, setting up strong field position and shifting momentum in several key games.
Defense: Physical, Disruptive, and Relentless
While the offense piled up yards, the defense quietly assembled one of the strongest statistical seasons in recent memory.
Tackling Machines
The defensive unit produced 754 total tackles, led by:
- Noah Harkins — 85 tackles
- Griffin Cunningham — 83 tackles
- Jackson Adams — 79 tackles
- CJ Davis — 72 tackles
These four set the tone with physicality, discipline, and consistency.
Living in the Backfield
The Raiders recorded 71 tackles for loss, totaling –262 yards.
Key disruptors included:
- CJ Davis — 16.0 TFL (team leader)
- Jackson Adams — 11.5 TFL
- Parks York — 10.0 TFL
- Noah Harkins — 8.0 TFL
- Griffin Cunningham — 7.0 TFL
Their ability to create negative plays helped the Raiders stay in control defensively throughout the season.
Takeaways and Big Stops
The defense also produced:
- 9 interceptions, led by Parks York (3)
- 7 fumble recoveries
- 36 pass breakups
- 27 quarterback hurries
Whether through timely interceptions or momentum-shifting backfield stops, the Raiders’ defense consistently made plays when it mattered most.
A Season to Build On
The 2025 Habersham Central Raiders showed tremendous growth, big-play capability, and a core of emerging stars on both sides of the ball. With Wilbanks, C.J. Davis, and multiple defensive leaders returning next year, the foundation is set for an exciting 2026 season.
A Breakout Year for Coach Benji Harrison
The 2025 season also stands out as one of Coach Benji Harrison’s strongest performances since taking over the program in 2015. Harrison, who has led the Raiders for 11 seasons, tied the late Coach Larry Black for the all-time years as head coach. Coach Harrison entered this year with an overall record marked by determination and steady rebuilding. His teams have posted highs and lows. The Raiders notched 7 wins this year. That ties Coach Harrison’s most wins with his 2018 season, but this year’s 7–4 finish, including a 5–1 region record, represents one of the best statistical seasons of his tenure. The Raiders boasted a perfect 5-0 regional play record, a first for Coach Harrison. Defensively, the Raiders allowed 225 points, the second-fewest of any Harrison-coached team — behind only the 211 points allowed in 2016. Offensively, their 317 points scored ranks among the top outputs in his tenure, reflecting major improvement in both consistency and explosiveness. Altogether, the 2025 season stands as one of Harrison’s most complete team performances and a strong foundation as the program looks ahead to next year.
Watch Coach Harrison’s Interview
Habersham News will continue following the Raiders throughout the offseason as preparations begin for next fall.
