Dunwoody football seeks first region crown since 2008
The Wildcats face undefeated Heritage of Conyers in a title game following a seven-game winning streak.
By Anthony Foster ·
Dunwoody football players will compete for a region championship on Friday when they face Heritage of Conyers at North DeKalb Stadium. The Wildcats, who stand at 7-1 overall and 6-0 in region play, are chasing their first region title since 2008. A win would secure their spot in the next round, while Heritage of Conyers arrives undefeated.
Coach Matt Schmitz took over the program in 2025 after serving as the offensive coordinator for three seasons. Since a last-minute 23-21 loss to Centennial in the season opener, the team has won seven consecutive games. Schmitz attributed the improvement to a culture shift that began in the previous season. He stated that the team became more competitive in practices and that players started to buy into the system.
The Wildcats are led by running back Bradley Stephens. Schmitz described Stephens as a player with high football intelligence who makes quick decisions. Stephens has carried the ball for 1,875 yards and 13 touchdowns in the current season. He also passed for 313 yards and two touchdowns. Schmitz noted that Stephens plays with confidence and that his ability to run and pass keeps defenses off balance.
Defensive growth has been a key factor in the team's recent success. Assistant coach Daele Dwyer, who serves as the defensive coordinator, oversees the unit. Schmitz said the defense has improved because players are more confident in their assignments. He explained that the group is better at taking on blocks and that they are not as afraid of the physical nature of the game. The defense has allowed fewer points in recent weeks compared to the start of the season.
The team is preparing for a move to a new facility next fall. Dunwoody will occupy Ryan Seacrest Stadium, a 3,000-seat venue that is DeKalb County's first on-campus stadium. The transition to the new home is a source of excitement for the school and the program. The current squad is the last group to play a full season at the old site before the move takes effect.
Heritage of Conyers enters the matchup with a 6-5 record. The Panthers have shown consistency in their recent games. Schmitz emphasized that the team must focus on execution in the final minutes of games. He told his players to treat the contest as a chance to prove their development since the opening loss.
The game is scheduled for Friday evening at North DeKalb Stadium. The winner will advance in the Region 4-6A tournament. Dunwoody last won a state championship in 1993.
Dunwoody will look to extend its winning streak against a strong opponent. The outcome will determine the team's path forward in the postseason. Players are focused on the upcoming challenge.
