Dunwoody coach Matt Schmitz addresses defense growth before title game

Dunwoody head coach Matt Schmitz says the team’s defense has become a primary reason for the Wildcats’ recent surge.

Schmitz took over as head coach in 2025 after serving as the offensive coordinator for three seasons. The program, which last won a state championship in 1993, has not claimed a region title since 2008. The Wildcats currently hold a 7-1 record and a 6-0 mark in regional play. They are on a seven-game winning streak that began after a 23-21 loss to Centennial in the season opener.

The team’s trajectory shifted in the spring of 2025, when Schmitz was hired on February 15. That move followed the departure of former head coach John Smith, who led the team to the playoffs last season. The Wildcats will face undefeated Heritage of Conyers on Friday at North DeKalb Stadium. The contest serves as the Region 4-6A championship game.

Schmitz credited the defensive line for stabilizing the unit. He noted that the group has shown consistent effort and improved communication. The defense allowed fewer points in the final three games compared to the first four weeks of the season. Schmitz said the group has developed a sense of urgency that was missing earlier in the year.

The Wildcats also rely on running back Bradley Stephens, who has rushed for 1,875 yards and 13 touchdowns this season. Schmitz described Stephens as a physical runner who has gained confidence as the season progressed. The coach said Stephens has become a reliable target in the passing game as well. Schmitz noted that Stephens has carried the ball in every game this season.

The team will move into the 3,000-seat Ryan Seacrest Stadium next fall. This facility will be DeKalb County’s first on-campus stadium. Schmitz said the new venue will provide a home-field advantage for future seasons. The Wildcats are preparing for Friday’s matchup against Heritage, which holds a 12-0 overall record.

Schmitz acknowledged that the defense still has room for improvement. He pointed to specific lapses in coverage against spread offenses. The coach said the team must maintain focus against Heritage’s diverse offensive scheme. Dunwoody has not lost a game in six weeks. The next game will determine the region’s champion.