As we reach closer to the playoffs, many feel that Columbus is the favorite in Region 4-8A. However, if there is a district that has teams who will compete with the Explorers that might be District 16-8A.
As of today, the team most likely to emerge out of the southernmost district in 8A is South Dade (7-1, 3-0). The Bucs win the district with a win over Southridge but have already assured themselves of making the tiebreaker in a worst case scenario.
Killian (6-1; 2-1) seems to have the best opportunity to advance as the second team in this district. Despite losing to South Dade earlier in the season, they already have a victory against rival, Southridge who many expected to emerge as a team that could lead this region.
Southridge (3-4; 1-1) is not the same team that suffered a four game losing streak. After shutting out defending 5A State Champ Norland two weeks ago, they are playing with much more confidence. A victory against leader, South Dade and Coral Reef the following week, will gain them a playoff tiebreaker.
Palmetto (3-4; 0-2) would need to beat Coral Reef and Killian and Coral Reef (3-4; 0-2) would need to beat Palmetto and Southridge but neither controls their own destiny.
