What I knew:
Both teams opened the 2012 season undefeated. Western was 2-0 and Everglades 3-0. In District 12-8A, with last year’s district champ, Miramar showing their vulnerability and Cypress Bay adjusting to a new offense, many believed both teams may have the opportunity for post season consideration. Western is led by veteran QB Wade Freeback who operated a pass oriented offense which included leading receivers Jimmy Gonzalez and Tarik Cummings. The defense only gave up an average of 10 points per game in the team’s victories against Douglas and South Broward.
Everglades High was led by QB Caleb Goldson. While the team operated a balanced offense, its success has been much greater from the air than the ground. While Joshua Shaw and Andre Hallmon led the receivers, the defense gave up nearly 8 points per game in the team’s victories against Cooper City, South Broward and Hollywood Hills.
What I learned:
Western (3-0; 1-0) is a serious contender in their district. While the team was badly outgained by Everglades (3-1; 0-1) 368-190, the Wildcats committed only 4 penalties and no turnovers. Conversely, Everglades had multiple turnovers and committed critical penalties which hampered their opportunities. Goldon (EVE) was 13/21 for 212 yards and was effective from both sides of the field. The Gators demise can be attributed to four plays. First, Juwan Dowles (WES) interception in the end zone which stalled an 80 yard drive by Everglades. Second, Everglades fumble inside their own 5 which led to Western’s first touchdown. Third, Everglades fumble near the Western goal line that was recovered by Danny Shevlin (WES). Fourth, Dowles (WES) 61 yards kickoff return to bring his team back into the Everglades red zone, immediately after Giovan O’Brady (EVE) had cut the Wildcats lead to 14-7 early in the 3rd quarter.
Freeback (WES) did an excellent job as a game manager along with a 20 yd touchdown run in the 4th quarter to seal the victory. Cummings (WES) added 2 receptions and Parrish (WES) rushed for 69 yards which added to the team’s success. I also recommend that everyone take a look at Jonathan Atwell (WES) who is only a sophomore. He made a circus catch through triple coverage at the end of the 3rd quarter which set up his team’s final score.
What I expect:
Western enters the next phase of the season with momentum. Based on their schedule, the Wildcats could enter their game with Miramar 7-0. While they may lack size in certain areas, their speed and ability to limit mistakes will keep Western in every game. Everglades has no time to rebound. Next week’s game for them against Flanagan is essentially a district elimination game. The Gators saving grace is their offensive productivity. Goldson (EVE) is very effective in leading the offense. The hope is that the Gators figure out of way to minimize mistakes. We shall see.
You can follow Adam Kosnitzky at @akosnitzky
