The playoffs are here upon us and we are going to take a dive and look at this week’s slate for Class 4A, Region I & II regional semifinals with our prediction of who will advance to next week’s regional finals.
Region I
Walton (7-3) at Madison County (7-3)
The Skinny: Walton is back in the playoffs for the first time in nearly five years while Madison County is back in the playoffs after being out of the playoffs last season. While both teams may look evenly matched on basis of record, Madison County wins hands down when it comes to strength of schedule. Madison County which has played playoff caliber teams like Gainesville, DeLand to just name a couple, things really lean in favor for the Cowboys to be ready for this game, although the score won’t be fully wide open.
Prediction: Madison County
Fort White (5-4) at Florida High (7-3)
The Skinny: This game might be a toss up as both teams have played some tough opponents on the schedule this year which for both could help them or break them when it comes to this game. Question is, who is hungry for this win more? For now we think that Florida High seems to have things more together at this particular point.
Predicition: Florida High
Region II
Bolles (8-2) at Umatilla (8-2)
The Skinny: What a turnaround it has been for Umatilla this year, which has won its first district title in over a decade. Bolles which is runner-up once again to Raines is being favored by many to make another run again to Orlando which would be four years in a row if that does happen. However, first Bolles must travel to Umatilla and get the win. If they do, they are likely to get a rematch with Raines in round two. Question here is, can Bolles do it again?
Prediction: Bolles
The Villages (8-2) at Raines (7-3)
The Skinny: Raines had one of the toughest schedules in the state this year that included a trip to Coaca and games against First Coast and Ed White. That should be the difference maker here in this game as The Villages hasn’t been tested as much this season. A win here for Raines likely sets up a rematch with Bolles in round two at home.
Prediction: Raines
