The playoffs are here upon us and we are going to take a dive and look at this week’s slate for Class 5A, Region I regional quarterfinals with our prediction of who will advance to next week’s regional semifinals.
Wakulla (8-2) at West Florida (9-1)
The Skinny: Something was missing last season from the playoffs-Wakulla. Over the last 15 years, Wakulla has been in the postseason 11 times. After a one year hiatus you can bet the War Eagles are hungry again. Standing in the way is No. 4 West Florida, a program making their third consecutive playoff appearance and on a nine game winning streak. Wakulla ranked No. 10 faced five playoff teams during the season and shouldnt be intimidated.
Prediction: Wakulla
Mosley (8-2) at Godby (8-2)
The Skinny: Mosley has won six straight heading into the playoffs to qualify for its first playoff appearance in eight years, but now must face a dauting task of playing on the road at four-time state champion Godby. Meanwhile the No. 6 Cougars are looking to make up for a shocking first round loss to West Florida last season. Godby has a lot of momentum after rallying for 22 unanswered points in a win over arch rival Lincoln.
Prediction: Godby
Palatka (4-5) at Bishop Kenny (8-1)
The Skinny: Rematch of a first round playoff game last season in which BK won 44-22. Palatka returns looking for revenge but must do so potentially without its playmaker and quarterback De’Abrie Smith, who missed last weeks game against arch rival St. Augustine. The dynamic combination of quarterback Jackson Bradley (1884 yards, 25 TDs) and senior utility player Charles Wade (962 yards, 13 TDs) has been lethal for the Crusaders.
Prediction: Bishop Kenny
Westside (6-4) at Clay (9-1)
The Skinny: The program formerly known as Forrest, is making their first playoff appearance. Unfortunatetly, it might be a short one. Playmaker junior quarterback Amari Dubose (736 rushing, 10 TDs, 732 passing, 6 TDs) was lost for the season a week ago injured in the district tiebreaker. Tailback Montavious Cogdell (728 yards, 12 TDs) will be counted on heavily if the Wolverines want to pull the upset. Clay ranked No. 3 has looked invincible and is huge favorites to get back to the state finals again.
Prediction: Clay
