WINTER HAVEN BLUE DEVILS

2023 Record: 7-4

2024 District: 7A-6

2024 SCHEDULE

All Kickoff Times are 7:30 p.m. ET unless noted

* – District
** – Preseason (FHSAA)  

Week 0 – Fri. 8/16 – at Sebring** 
Week 1 – Fri. 8/23 – Lake Wales
Week 2 – Thu. 8/29 – Lake Region (Eagle Lake)
Week 3 – Fri. 9/6 – at Knoxville Catholic (TN)
Week 4 – Fri. 9/13 –  Lakeland
Week 5 – Fri. 9/20 – at Haines City*
Week 6 – Fri. 9/27 – BYE WEEK
Week 7 – Fri. 10/4 – at Parrish Community
Week 8 – Fri. 10/11 – George Jenkins (Lakeland)*
Week 9 – Fri. 10/18 – Lake Gibson (Lakeland)
Week 10 – Fri. 10/25 – at Ridge Community (Davenport)*
Week 11 – Fri. 11/1 – at Auburndale

ROAD TRIPPING

When looking at the road games to be played by the Blue Devils the first game that stands out as being a long-distance trip is the trip to Knoxville Catholic in Week 4. It will be a true road test of to see if the Blue Devils will be ready for a tougher game the following week against defending State Champion Lakeland. That road trip alone will result in the majority of the mileage that the Blue Devils will have on the road in 2024. The next longest road trip will be over to Manatee County to take on Parrish Community which will come around the midway point of the season in Week 7. Outside of those two road games the remainder road games will be inside Polk County for the regular season schedule for the Blue Devils.

Mileage distances listed one-way/round trip

To Knoxville Catholic: 662/1,324
To Haines City: 13/26
To Parrish Community: 64/128
To Ridge Community: 14/28
To Auburndale: 8/16

Total 2024 Milage: 761/1,522

STRENGTH OF SCHEDULE

The Blue Devils will see six teams on their schedule that were in the playoffs in 2023 including one being Lakeland who won back-to-back Class 4M state championships the past two years. Lake Wales Lake Wales who won the Class 3S state championship in 2022 was a regional finalist in 2023 giving the Blue Devils at least two teams on the schedule that went deep in the playoffs. Haines City, Auburndale, and Parrish Community are the other teams that were in the playoffs in 2023. 

As such when we look at trying to determine SOS most would determine just looking at last year’s win-loss record which we feel sometimes isn’t enough data to work with. Instead, we looked at the 2022 and 2023 combined winning percentage of every team with the 2023 season weighted the most heavily to determine the SOS for each team in 2024.

Winter Haven SOS for 2024: .597

2-Year Combined Opp. Win-Loss: 137-85

THREE KEY GAMES

• 9/6 – at Knoxville Catholic: This will be a true road test game for the Blue Devils who will have to see if they can face the strongest of challenges and see how they handle tests of adversity. The result of this game will be critical in the next key game the following week.

• 9/13 – Lakeland: With the defending state champions coming to Denison Stadium, this will be a huge game that will be electrifying on the new turf field at the stadium. If the Blue Devils can get a win here or if nothing less keep it to what we would determine a quality loss that is close, it could carry the Blue Devils a long way for the remainder of the season.

• 10/25 – at Ridge Community: This game is likely going to be for the District 7A-6 championship and at that point the playoff fate for the Blue Devils will be decided here. 

OVERALL THOUGHTS

We love the fact that head coach Carl White who is going into his second season at Winter Haven has scheduled a tough road game going out of state against a quality opponent in Tennessee. Also love the fact that the Blue Devils will host Lakeland which honestly will be their biggest test of the season to see if they can defeat the defending state champions. Coach White should be proud of the schedule he built for his team for the 2024 season, and it will be one that fans in Winter Haven will enjoy following.  

The post 2024 Schedule Analysis: Winter Haven beefs the schedule up in hopes for a deeper playoff run appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

Looking at we will take a dive into determining the best districts are in the state going into the 2024 season based upon the final classification and district assignments that were released on Tuesday by the FHSAA.

In this article we will look at Class 7A and we ranked the districts from 1 through 16 using winning percentages of the last two years (2023 and 2024) to come up with our ranking.

1. District 7A-3

Teams: Hagerty (Oviedo), Lake Brantley (Altamonte Springs), Lake Mary, Seminole (Sanford)

2 Year Combined Win %: .620

Teams: Looking at this district, three of the four teams were playoff teams from 2023 and all four teams have been in the playoffs over the past two seasons combined. If Lake Brantley improves in 2024, this could be the strongest district in Class 7A.

2. District 7A-16

Teams: Columbus (Miami), Coral Gables, Miami High, Miami Palmetto, South Dade (Homestead)

2 Year Combined Win %: .614

Skinny: With Columbus winning back-to-back state championships the last two years along with a strong Miami Palmetto program help with the win percentage being high. Also, a rebounding South Dade program that was in the playoffs this past season, makes this a strong district.

3. District 7A-5

Teams: Apopka, Ocoee, West Orange (Winter Garden), West Port (Ocala)

2 Year Combined Win %: .576

Skinny: Apopka stands out as the best team in the district and their state championship appearance in 2022 helps along with their deep playoff runs combined over the last two seasons. Ocoee’s deep playoff run 2022 helps raise the percentage. This could be a good district to watch, but it won’t be the strongest.

4. District 7A-4

Teams: Boone (Orlando), Freedom (Orlando), Timber Creek (Orlando), Winter Park

2 Year Combined Win %: .548

Skinny: Winter Park is the strongest team holding this district win percentage of the last two years from being lower. While, yes Boone has been a playoff team the last two years, the pedestrian record hurts more than it helps for the ranking.

5. District 7A-2

Teams: DeLand, Flagler Palm Coast, Spruce Creek (Port Orange), University (Orange City)

2 Year Combined Win %: .539

Skinny: There is a lot to like about this district as three of the teams were playoff teams from this past season in DeLand, Spruce Creek and University. Flagler Palm Coast was a playoff team in 2022 and thus makes it one of the stronger districts in Class 7A.

6. District 7A-7

Teams: Alonso (Tampa), Newsome (Lithia), Plant City, Strawberry Crest (Dover), Sumner (Riverview)

2 Year Combined Win %: .533

Skinny: With Sumner being the strongest of the five teams here with playoff runs the last two seasons, this is a big reason why the winning percentage is above .500. Plant City and Newsome have also had playoff appearances but have not come with a nice looking record. Alonso’s 7-win season in 2023 inflates things a little bit.

7. District 7A-12

Teams: Jupiter, Palm Beach Central (Wellington), Palm Beach Lakes (West Palm Beach), Wellington

2 Year Combined Win %: .533

Skinny: Jupiter’s recent improvements along with the strong performance of Palm Beach Central puts this district right in the middle of the pack. If Palm Beach Lakes and Wellington could show improvement in 2024, their year-end ranking could be higher going into 2025.

8. District 7A-8

Teams: Lehigh (Lehigh Acres), Riverview (Sarasota), Sarasota, Venice

2 Year Combined Win %: .527

Skinny: Venice is by far the strongest team of the district with back-to-back state runner-up finishes in the district. Riverview helps bring the winning percentage up some with their deep playoff runs over the last two years. The struggles between Lehigh and Sarasota are what make this district look weaker than what it might be.

9. District 7A-6

Teams: George Jenkins (Lakeland), Haines City, Ridge Community (Davenport), Winter Haven

2 Year Combined Win %: .525

Skinny: An all-Polk County district, the strongest team that brings the win percentage of the last two-years above .500 is Winter Haven. Haines City does have a playoff appearance under its belt in that stretch with the improvements seen there.

10. District 7A-11

Teams: Centennial (Port St. Lucie), Fort Pierce Central, Treasure Coast (Port St. Lucie), Vero Beach

2 Year Combined Win %: .494

Skinny: The traditional Treasure Coast-area district holds together and while in years past would be one of the strongest districts regardless of the classification, the struggles of Centennial and Fort Pierce Central over the last two years drag the ranking down significantly.

11. District 7A-15

Teams: Cypress Bay (Weston), Goleman (Miami), Taravella (Coral Springs), Western (Davie)

2 Year Combined Win %: .477

Skinny: Western has been the strongest team in the group while Taravella has been the weakest and that is what puts the combined winning percentage below .500 going into the 2024 season.

12. District 7A-10

Teams: Harmony, Lake Nona (Orlando), Tohopekaliga (Kissimmee)

2 Year Combined Win %: .435

Skinny: A three-team district with all three teams here not even reaching the playoffs in 2023. However, Harmony did have a playoff berth in 2022, but overall, the teams in the district have struggled. Someone will be playoff bound from this one in 2024.

13. District 7A-9

Teams: Celebration, Dr. Phillips (Orlando), East Ridge (Clermont), Olympia (Orlando)

2 Year Combined Win %: .429

Skinny: There is not a lot to talk about with this district given the struggles that Celebration has had along with East Ridge despite their improvement to five wins in 2023. The combined overall record of the last two years makes this district a weak one for now.

14. District 7A-14

Teams: Boca Raton, Coral Glades (Coral Springs), Stoneman Douglas (Parkland), Spanish River (Boca Raton)

2 Year Combined Win %: .414

Skinny: A combination district of very southern Palm Beach County and very northern Broward County, the strongest team in the district is Boca Raton that has been a playoff team the last two years. Spanish River’s improvement last year was great in helping boost the percentage above .400.

15. District 7A-13

Teams: Forest Hill (West Palm Beach), John I. Leonard (Greenacres), Lake Worth, Park Vista (Lake Worth), Santaluces (Lantana)

2 Year Combined Win %: .398

Skinny: Not all five-team districts are created equal, and that sure is not the case here with this five-team district in Palm Beach County, featuring some of the weakest programs in Palm Beach County and all of Class 7A. Santaluces last two years in the playoffs help prop the win percentage up just a little bit.

16. District 7A-1

Teams: Atlantic Coast (Jacksonville), Creekside (St. Johns), Sandalwood (Jacksonville)

2 Year Combined Win %: .381

Skinny: Of all the teams here in this district, Creekside has been the only one that has been in the playoffs the last two seasons. While Atlantic Coast showed improvement this past year, Sandalwood is heading for a rebuild, thus making this one of the weakest districts in the state.

The post FOOTBALL: Ranking the districts from the strongest to the weakest in the new Class 7A appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

Head Coach: Charlie Tate

District: Class 7A-District 7

Home Stadium: Denison Stadium

2018 SCHEDULE

All game times 7 p.m. Eastern unless noted. (B) indicates 3 bonus points for playing a playoff team from 2015 or 2016.

* – District Contest

Aug 24 – @ Auburndale (B)

Aug 31 – Sebastian River (B)

Sep 7 – Lake Brantley (B)

Sep 14 – @ Osceola (Kissimmee) (B)

Sep 21 – @ Lake Region

Sep 28 – Kathleen* (B)

Oct 5 – Lake Wales

Oct 12 – Lakeland* (B)

Oct 19 – OPEN

Oct 26 – @ Bartow*

Nov 2 – Ridge Community (B)

Bonus Points: 21

The post Winter Haven Blue Devils 2018 football schedule appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

Here are the 2017 football schedules for District 7A-7, Presented by Varsity Sports Network. All kickoff times are 7:30 p.m. Eastern unless noted.

* — District Contest

BARTOW YELLOW JACKETS
• Week 1 — Fri. Aug. 25 — @ Ridge Community
• Week 2 — Fri. Sep. 1 — George Jenkins
• Week 3 — Fri. Sep. 8 — Sebring
• Week 4 — Fri. Sep. 15 — @ Auburndale
• Week 5 — Fri. Sep. 22 — @ Fort Meade
• Week 6 — Fri. Sep. 29 — Lakeland*
• Week 7 — Fri. Oct. 6 — Hardee
• Week 8 — Fri. Oct. 13 — Kathleen*
• Week 9 — Fri. Oct. 20 –BYE WEEK
• Week 10 — Fri. Oct. 27 — @ Winter Haven*
• Week 11 — Fri. Nov. 3 — Lake Wales

KATHLEEN RED DEVILS
• Week 1 — Fri. Aug. 25 — @ Vanguard
• Week 2 — Fri. Sep. 1 — Lake Gibson
• Week 3 — Fri. Sep. 8 — Ridge Community
• Week 4 — Fri. Sep. 15 — @ Phenix City Central, Ala., 7:00 p.m. CT
• Week 5 — Fri. Sep. 22 — Auburndale
• Week 6 — Fri. Sep. 29 — Winter Haven*
• Week 7 — Fri. Oct. 6 — @ Sebring
• Week 8 — Fri. Oct. 13 — @ Bartow*
• Week 9 — Fri. Oct. 20 — Lehigh
• Week 10 — Fri. Oct. 27 — @ Lakeland*
• Week 11 — Fri. Nov. 3 — BYE WEEK

LAKELAND DREADNAUGHTS
• Week 1 — Fri. Aug. 25 — @ Manatee
• Week 2 — Fri. Sep. 1 — Cooper City
• Week 3 — Fri. Sep. 8 — Apopka
• Week 4 — Fri. Sep. 15 — @ Gibbs
• Week 5 — Fri. Sep. 22 — East Lake
• Week 6 — Fri. Sep. 29 — @ Bartow*
• Week 7 — Fri. Oct. 6 — @ George Jenkins
• Week 8 — Fri. Oct. 13 — Winter Haven*
• Week 9 — Fri. Oct. 20 — South Broward
• Week 10 — Fri. Oct. 27 — Kathleen*
• Week 11 — Fri. Nov. 3 —  BYE WEEK

WINTER HAVEN BLUE DEVILS
• Week 1 — Fri. Aug. 25 — @ Auburndale
• Week 2 — Fri. Sep. 1 — West Park Prep
• Week 3 — Fri. Sep. 8 — @ Lake Brantley, 7:00 p.m.
• Week 4 — Fri. Sep. 15 — Kissimmee Osceola
• Week 5 — Fri. Sep. 22 — Lake Region
• Week 6 — Fri. Sep. 29 — @ Kathleen*
• Week 7 — Fri. Oct. 6 — @ Lake Wales
• Week 8 — Fri. Oct. 13 — @ Lakeland*
• Week 9 — Fri. Oct. 20 — BYE WEEK
• Week 10 — Fri. Oct. 27 — Bartow*
• Week 11 — Fri. Nov. 3 — @ Ridge Community

The post 2017 District 7A-7 Football Schedules appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

1. Miami Central vs. Miami Northwestern
Why: There is a lot to talk about surrounding this game, but we will try to get to the point with this one. Miami Central is one of two teams looking to for five-straight state championships this season (Booker T. Washington is the other team), and this game puts everything to the test for the Rockets. Miami Northwestern has not won a game against Miami Central in a very long time, but with the wins, they have had this year has put them in playoff contention. Here is the deal, though – Miami Central loses this game their playoff hopes would be placed on thin ice as they would need some upsets to happen to force a tiebreaker situation and thus potential dashing any hopes of repeating or getting the five-peat.

2. Cardinal Gibbons at Plantation American Heritage
Why: This is a big district showdown between the top two teams in Class 5A which will also decide who will control the driver’s seat of the District 5A-16 playoff race. Both the visiting Chiefs and host Patriots are undefeated, but the only team will come away with the win. Expect the winner of this one to be a strong favorite to emerge from Class 5A South to represent at Drive To December in Orlando.

3. Jones at Cocoa
Why: A big District 4A-5 tilt here which will likely decide who will win the district championship as early as next week. Jones comes into the game undefeated, but the schedule has not been as strong for them compared to Cocoa. Cocoa has faced some tough competition against national title contender Bishop Gorman as well as 2015 Class 7A runner-up Viera. Overall, this could be a four-quarter game for both teams.

4. Trenton at Newberry
Why: Usually Class 1A games don’t get as much love or get pushed into the top five for Games of the Week, but there are exceptions to be made. This is one of them. Newberry which is coming into the game 6-0 will take on the defending Class 1A state champion, Trenton, at home. This game will be similar in atmosphere to the 2012 state semifinal playoff game between the two teams as they fight for the top spot in District 1A-7, which pave the path to the district championship to possibly be clinched fully as early as next week.

5. Braden River at Venice
Why: A huge District 7A-11 matchup here features a state semifinalist from last season in Braden River while taking on a Venice team seeking some revenge for the two losses they took against the Pirates. With this being a home game for the Indians and talent they have built on the roster shining so far, this could be a game that has Braden River looking to a game with Palmetto next week to keep their playoff hopes alive.

6. Fort Pierce Central at Jacksonville Trinity Christian
Why: A last second matchup put together by both teams needing a game due to cancellations between Hurricane Matthew and a team pulling out of district play at the last second. Both teams are highly talented in their own rights, but will the visiting Cobras have enough to knock off the defending Class 3A state champions who have nearly a dozen players with Division I offers? Time will only tell.

7. Buchholz at Bartram Trail
Why: This is a must-win District 7A-3 game for both the visiting Bobcats and the host Bears. Why a must-win game? It is because whoever wins this game is very much likely to win the district. The Bobcats struggled in their last game against Gainesville in which they lost in double overtime. Bartram Trail which has losses to Mainland and St. Augustine has played a stronger schedule to this point. But like we have seen from time and time again, this game could go either way.

8. Lakeland at Winter Haven
Why: Control for District 7A-7 is up for grabs in this matchup. Lakeland which has already seen one high-powered offense with Miami Carol City this season could be in for a big surprise with Winter Haven which has put up a ton of points in the five games they have been able to play. Overall, though expect a potential shootout between these two teams looking to leave it all on the field.

9. Martin County at Viera
Why: A big District 7A-6 matchup here which sees a much improved Martin County team compared to last season with a Viera team that has performed better than projected this season. The visiting Tigers have not lost a game since dropping their season opener to Okeechobee, while Viera has losses to tough opponents in Gonzaga (DC) and Cocoa. Whichever team wins this game will very likely win the district championship.

10. Glades Central at University School
Why: A key District 4A-7 matchup here with the host Sharks needing a big win over the visiting Raiders to keep their playoff hopes alive. While University School has won most of their games big, they let the most important one slip by them a couple of weeks ago, setting this matchup to be a big one. However, Glades Central has been tough to figure out at times, but when it comes to district games, the Raiders usually know how to step up their game. Look for this game to be an all-out battle to the end.

Note: IMG Academy at Oxbridge Academy would have been considered for this list, but due to it being a Thursday night game, it was not considered.

The post FloridaHSFootball.com’s Top 10 Games of the Week for Week 8 appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

1. Booker T. Washington (2-1) vs. Miami Southridge (2-0)
Why: Booker T. is coming off a painful loss to Miami Jackson and with that dashed hopes of a national championship this season. The Tornadoes will have to be ready to play in this game as Miami Southridge has already proven they are a contender in Class 8A South after knocking off Columbus last week.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Southridge 15, Booker T. Washington 12
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Booker T. Washington 28, Southridge 7
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Southridge 7 over Booker T. Washington

2. Dr. Phillips (3-0) at Apopka (3-0)
Why: Two Orlando-area heavy weights meet here in this game which could give us an early glimpse of who we might expect to emerge as the team to represent Class 8A North this year. Dr. Phillips has given up seven points or less in each of their first three games, however Apopka has dropped 175 points opponents in the same stretch which could open the door for either a shootout or a defensive battle.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Apopka 35, Dr. Phillips 27
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Dr. Phillips 24, Apopka 22
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Apopka 1 over Dr. Phillips

3. Deerfield Beach (1-1) at Grayson (GA) (1-1)
Why: A solid Florida vs. Georgia matchup, the Bucks will try to become the second team from Florida to try to win against Grayson this season. Deerfield which had a week off to recover from a stinging loss to Hallandale in Week 2 should be primed and ready to go, but the same thing could be said for Grayson as well. Expect this one to stay close for four quarters.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Deerfield Beach 20, Grayson 19
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Grayson 34, Deerfield Beach 8
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Grayson 7 over Deerfield Beach

4. Miami Jackson (1-1) at Cardinal Gibbons (3-0)
Why:It is hard to believe how fast things can change in a matter of three weeks, but that has been the case with this game. Once thought to be a write off with not much appeal, both teams are looking to shake up District 5A-16 with their new found approaches to winning tough games. Jackson is coming a very decisive victory over Booker T. Washington while Cardinal Gibbons is looking to make a statement by moving to 4-0 on the season with this game.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Miami Jackson 28, Cardinal Gibbons 27
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Miami Jackson 28, Cardinal Gibbons 20
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Miami Jackson 3 over Cardinal Gibbons

5. Winter Haven (2-0) at Kissimmee Osceola (3-0)
Why:This could be a tough one for the visiting Blue Devils, but they pulled out a tough one against Ridge Community to stay undefeated on the season. The Kowboys with a K are also looking like they haven’t skipped a beat despite looking like a rebuilding team during the spring and preseason. Overall, it expect this game to be a fight for both teams.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Osceola 30, Winter Haven 21
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Osceola 28, Winter Haven 14
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Winter Haven 7 over Osceola

6. Oakleaf (1-1) at Buchholz (2-0)
Why:Oakleaf comes into this game looking for revenge to a 20-14 loss they suffered at home last year, a loss that ended up costing them a spot in the playoffs. Buchholz is riding high after last week’s 27-point come back against Columbia that was one of the biggest upsets of Week 3. A tough battle should be expected for this one in Gainesville on Friday night.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Buchholz 28, Oakleaf 17
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Oakleaf 21, Buchholz 20
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Buchholz 19 over Oakleaf

7. Orange City University (3-0) at Sanford Seminole (2-0)
Why: This game has been the talk of District 8A-2 since early in the summer when it was pretty evident that both University and Seminole would be the two teams to beat. University is riding high with Lorenzo Lingard doing his damage on the ground, while Seminole has a more balanced approach that will test the University defense. Overall, this is a money well spent kind of game.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: University 48, Seminole 28
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: University 44, Seminole 14
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: University 3 over Seminole

8. Kathleen (2-1) at Viera (2-1)
Why:Viera would like to erase the drubbing they took in Lakeland last year and now they get that chance in this game. Viera which quickly rose on the scene in Class 7A last year has shown they are still hungry to get back to the state championship game this season. A win here for Viera will go along way towards establishing that path. However, a Kathleen win again could make things very interesting for the rest of the season.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Viera 35, Kathleen 20
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Viera 34, Kathleen 13
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Viera 28 over Kathleen

9. Trinity Catholic (1-0) at Wakulla (1-1)
Why:Trinity Catholic is on sort of revenge tour this season, looking to take bake wins that were losses for them last season. This is one that was put into the loss column last year. Both the Celtics and the host War Eagles are completely different teams than they were last year, so that certainly helps the dynamics for Trinity Catholic to get a win on the road. However, Wakulla is looking to pick up a win at home after getting knocked off by Madison County last week.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Wakulla 28, Trinity Catholic 24
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Wakulla 38, Trinity Catholic 12
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Wakulla 6 over Trinity Catholic

10. Victory Christian (2-0) at Admiral Farragut (1-0)
Why:A good small school showdown between Victory Christian and Admiral Farragut, both which are expected to be playoff-bound teams later this season in Class 2A. The visiting Storm would like to avenge last year’s lost to the Blue Jackets, but like any road game, it could be tough to do. However, this should be a competitive game for both teams.

Predictions
Josh’s Prediction: Admiral Farragut 28, Victory Christian 21
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Admiral Farragut 32, Victory Christian 18
Joe Pinkos’ Forecast: Admiral Farragut 1 over Victory Christian

Last Week:
FHSF: 8-2
USA TODAY HSS: 7-3
Joe Pinkos: 7-3

Season Records (does not count Week 2 with games being washed out for some of GOTW)
FHSF: 14-6
USA TODAY HSS: 10-10
Joe Pinkos: 13-7

The post FloridaHSFootball.com’s Top 10 Games of the Week for Week 4 appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

WINTER HAVEN BLUE DEVILS

The post Winter Haven Blue Devils 2016 Football Schedule appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

West Orange (4-1) at Apopka (5-0)
Comment: This will be the defacto District 8A-4 championship game very likely despite the fact it is the first district game of the season for both teams. The biggest in common for both West Orange and Apopka coming into this game is the fact that both teams have a win over a common opponent – Dr. Phillips. However, usually Apopka does not lose at home often, so the advantage for this game goes to the Blue Darters. 
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Apopka 15 over West Orange
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Apopka 40, West Orange 28
FHSF Prediction: Apopka

Oxbridge Academy (3-1) at Delray American Heritage (3-1)
Comment: The Game of the Year as some are calling is taking place in Delray Beach as Oxbridge Academy play in its first FHSAA district game in school history. This game will decide the District 3A-7 champion as both teams are at the top while the third team, Cardinal Newman, has struggled this season. Both teams are eager to prove a point and expect a lot of rushing yards in this game from both teams.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: American Heritage 9 over Oxbridge Academy
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: American Heritage 35, Oxbridge Academy 20
FHSF Prediction: American Heritage 

Plant (3-2) at Wharton (5-0)
Comment: It is unusual to see a Plant team come into a district game with already two losses like this, but both have been to great teams in the Armwood Hawks and the Colquitt County, Ga., Packers. Wharton comes into this game looking to be the first of two undefeated teams (the other being Sickles) looking to knock off Plant to keep them from making the playoffs, but can Wharton do it? This week will tell us a lot about both teams for sure.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Plant 1 over Wharton
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Plant 33, Wharton 14
FHSF Prediction: Wharton

Winter Haven (4-1) at Kathleen (5-0)
Comment: It is rarity that a four-team district could possibly have four good teams that would be potential playoff teams, but that is what is like for District 7A-7 in Polk County. Winter Haven comes into the game with just one loss to Kissimmee Osceola, while Kathleen is still undefeated on the season. Both have a chance to set the tone for the remaining weeks ahead, so this game is just as important as the remaining games are.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Winter Haven 1 over Kathleen
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Winter Haven 20, Kathleen 13
FHSF Prediction: Kathleen

Miami Central (4-1) vs. Miami Carol City (4-1)
Comment: Both teams come in to this key district game with the same record and the same mojo playing every game like it means the season is on the line. With this being a key District 6A-16 game, a loss for either team could have a huge impact on how the rest of the season plays out for both the Rockets and Chiefs. Just don’t be surprised if this game doesn’t go the way you think it might go.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Miami Central 16 over Miami Carol City
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Miami Central 34, Miami Carol City 13
FHSF Prediction: Miami Central

Escambia (4-1) at Pine Forest (4-1)
Comment: Both teams have started off the 2015 season with a quick pace and both teams are looking to make a statement this week. With this being a key District 6A-1 game, both teams will need to start the game off quickly or they could find themselves on the wrong side of things. Do expect to see a sold out stadium, with fans of both teams out supporting there teams. 
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Escambia 9 over Pine Forest
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Escambia 34, Pine Forest 26
FHSF Prediction: Escambia

West Nassau (4-0) at Bolles (5-0)
Comment: It has been rare for both Bolles and West Nassau to enter this game undefeated, but that is exactly the case here for both teams as they enter this key District 4A-2 contest. The key question will be to see if West Nassau has any answers for Bolles or at least push Bolles around. If West Nassau can at least push Bolles around, this could be a thrilling district game right down to the end.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Bolles 29 over West Nassau
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Bolles 42, West Nassau 6
FHSF Prediction: Bolles

Sanford Seminole (3-1) at Lake Brantley (5-0)
Comment: A rivalry like none other, pitting two of the oldest programs in Seminole County together in a key District 8A-2 contest, this game will tell us a lot about the district in the remaining weeks ahead. If Lake Brantley win this game, it will take sole control of the drivers seat. If Seminole wins, it will put everything back to square one in the district, creating an interesting scenario that could see the district in a tiebreaker situation come at end of Week 10. Either way, the game is a key one for both teams.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Lake Brantley 1 over Seminole
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Lake Brantley 34, Seminole 28
FHSF Prediction: Lake Brantley

Tampa Bay Tech (3-2) at Plant City (4-1)
Comment: A key District 7A-9 game that will likely decide who controls the driver seat of the district for the rest of the season. Both Tampa Bay Tech and Plant City both have two district wins already, but one will leave this game with one loss. Tampa Bay Tech has been known to play its best football when it comes to district games while Plant City has been up and down depending on what game it is.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: Tampa Bay Tech 2 over Plant City
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: Tampa Bay Tech 22, Plant City 20
FHSF Prediction: Plant City

Martin County (4-1) at South Fork (4-0)
Comment: The annual Martin Bowl is now a key District 7A-7 game that will have playoffs on the line for both teams. Both teams are combined 8-1 coming into this game, so the power and energy of this rivalry will have the fans into the game for all four quarters. Whoever, wins will likely be playoff bound come after Week 8.
Joe Pinkos Prediction: South Fork 14 over Martin County
USA TODAY HSS Prediction: South Fork 24, Martin County 6
FHSF Prediction: South Fork

Records from Last Week
Joe Pinkos: 8-2 (.800)
USA TODAY: 8-2 (.800)
FloridaHSFootball.com: 8-2 (.900)

Season Records:
Joe Pinkos: 41-9 (.820)
USA TODAY: 35-15 (.700)
FloridaHSFootball.com: 36-14 (.720)

The post FloridaHSFootball.com’s Top 10 Games of the Week for Week 6 appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

No. 2 (8A) Apopka (3-0) at No. 8 (8A) Dr. Phillips (2-1)
When: Tonight, 7:30 p.m. ET
Radio: WBZW 1520 AM, Apopka | Internet Stream: 1520 WBZW
Comment: This game will feature two of the Top 10 teams in Class 8A as well as two of the top teams in Central Florida and this should be a sell out at Bill Spoone Stadium. Question will be to see if Dr. Phillips has an answer to Apopka’s rushing attack. The Blue Darters didn’t attempt a pass at all last week against DeLand, so if the Panthers want to hang around, they will need to force the passing game early. Otherwise things could get ugly quickly leaving doubts for folks associated with Dr. Phillips as they host Mainland next week.
Joe Pinkos‘ Prediction: Apopka 17 over Dr. Phillips
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Apopka 28, Dr. Phillips 20
FHSF Prediction: Apopka

No. 3 (8A) Kissimmee Osceola (3-0) at No. 7 (7A) Winter Haven (3-0)
When: Tonight, 7:30 p.m. ET
Comment: Two team with solid offensive and defensive units will meet in Winter Haven and unfortunately someone is going to walk home with a loss. Osceola is averaging 40 points per game while only giving up 10 points per game. Winter Haven on the other hand is scoring roughly 30 points per game while only giving up 7 points. We expect to see a possible defensive struggle, but if one of the teams manages to find a weakness in the other, expect that team to build an edge and win the game.
Joe Pinkos‘ Prediction: Osceola 6 over Winter Haven
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Osceola 28, Winter Haven 16
FHSF Prediction: Osceola

Buchholz (2-1) at No. 3 (7A) Oakleaf (3-0)
When: Tonight, 7:00 p.m. ET
Comment: Buchholz gave Columbia all it could last week before falling to the Tigers on the road. With this week being here now, the Bobcats will look to make some noise as they take on Oakleaf in a District 7A-3 contest. With this game likely to decided the possible district champion or at least playoff positioning early on, every play or mistake will count for both teams. For Oakleaf, they are coming off a 14-5 win over Wayne County, Ga., last week that put the defense to the test. However, looking at both teams, Oakleaf appears to be more battled tested at this point, while Buchholz could certainly surprise a few people in the process.
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: Oakleaf 6 over Buchholz
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Oakleaf 28, Buchholz 14
FHSF Prediction: Oakleaf

No. 2 (6A) Miami Central (2-1) vs. Miami Norland (2-1) at FIU-North Miami Stadium
When: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. ET
Comment: With Miami Central bouncing back in the last two weeks with shutout wins, there is concern that the Rockets have not been tested in either of those games. However, we feel the test will be there this week when the Rockets travel up to North Miami to take on Miami Norland in a key District 6A-16 matchup. The Miami Norland defense held South Dade to just seven points last week (which also got South Dade the win), but the point is that the Vikings defense can’t be taken lightly by the Rockets. If the Rockets take it lightly, it could spell trouble in how the rest of the season goes.
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: Miami Central 14 over Miami Norland
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Miami Central 28, Miami Norland 0
FHSF Prediction: Miami Central

Choctawhatchee (2-1) at No. 4 (6A) Navarre (3-0)
When: Tonight, 7:00 p.m. CT
Radio: WPSM 91.1 FM, Fort Walton Beach | Internet Streams: WPSM 91.1 FM; JockJive.com
Comment: A great classic show down between two former district rivals, Navarre will be looking to get revenge in this game as they have lost three straight games to Choctawhatchee (including playoff games) over the last two years, while Choctawhatchee looks to pick up from last week’s 36-35 overtime loss to Rickards and win their fourth straight against the Raiders.
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: Navarre 17 over Choctawhatchee
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Navarre 35, Choctawhatchee 28
FHSF Prediction: Navarre

No. 7 (5A) Coconut Creek (2-1) at No. 1 (5A) Plantation American Heritage (2-1)
When: Tonight, 7:30 p.m. Et
Internet Stream: NFHS Network (subscription required)
Comment: A major District 5A-16 showdown that will decide a lot of things. First it will decided playoff positioning for the district. The second thing it will tell us if Coconut Creek is truly a legitimate contender to play against teams like American Heritage and Hallandale. Both Coconut Creek and American Heritage are coming into this week’s games with big wins from last week, so it should be a battle unless one catches the other napping early on.
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: American Heritage 28 over Coconut Creek
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: American Heritage 41, Coconut Creek 14
FHSF Prediction: American Heritage

No. 4 (8A) West Orange (3-0) at No. 1 (3A) Jacksonville Trinity Christian (3-0)
When: Tonight, 7:30 p.m. ET
Radio: WTRJ 91.7 FM, Jacksonville
Comment: West Orange comes up to Jacksonville after knocking off Dr. Phillips last week in the first game between the two schools in four years. Now West Orange will attempt to knock off the top team in Class 3A as they take on Jacksonville Trinity Christian. Trinity Christian is coming in after winning again against rival University Christian last week. Both teams have Division I prospects on both sides of the ball, but who will slow down who first? That question gets answered tonight!
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: Trinity Christian 8 over West Orange
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Trinity Christian 31, West Orange 28
FHSF Prediction: Trinity Christian

Crescent City (3-0) at No. 5 (1A) Pahokee (3-0)
When: Tonight, 7:00 p.m. ET
Comment: Crescent City will make the 240 mile road trip to Anquan Boldin Stadium in Pahokee to take on the Blue Devils in their first District 1A-8 contest this year. Some are still surprised that Pahokee joined Class 1A to this day, but here they are and ready to play the game. Crescent City already has a win over 1A Hilliard and 4A teams The Villages and Interlachen while Pahokee has wins over 8A Seminole Ridge and 3A Cardinal Newman. This game will tell us a lot about playoff positioning as both will still have to play Fort Meade in the coming weeks ahead.
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: Pahokee 19 over Crescent City
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Pahokee 28, Crescent City 14
FHSF Prediction: Pahokee

Glades Central (2-1) at No. 7 (8A) Delray Beach Atlantic (3-0)
When: Tonight, 7:00 p.m. ET
Radio: WUUB 106.3 FM, West Palm Beach | Internet Stream: ESPN West Palm
Comment: Glades Central will try to bounce back this week against a talented Delray Beach Atlantic. For the Glades Central Raiders they will need to come out quickly and dominate on both sides of the ball. Doing this will help them stay in the game and not have to fight to come from behind. For the Atlantic Eagles getting a head start quickly in this game could seal a victory heading into the start of the district schedule next week.
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: Atlantic 14 over Glades Central
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: Glades Central 22, Atlantic 20
FHSF Prediction: Atlantic

DeLand (1-2) at No. 10 (8A) Mandarin (3-0)
When: Tonight, 7:00 p.m.
Comment: Both teams meet for the first time since 2012 when they were in District 8A-1, better known as the I-95 district that stretches from Jacksonville down to Daytona Beach and points in between. DeLand will be look to knock Mandarin off Cloud 9 as they have rolled out quickly to a 3-0 start. However, DeLand is still trying to figure out how they managed to give up nearly 550 yards last week to Apopka – all of that coming on the ground game. Mandarin is surrounded by some experienced talent while DeLand is still breaking in some new guys. That could be the difference in this one.
Joe Pinkos’ Prediction: Mandarin 10 over DeLand
USA TODAY HSS Score Predictor: DeLand 28, Mandarin 22
FHSF Prediction: Mandarin

Records from Last Week
Joe Pinkos: 8-2 (.800)
USA TODAY: 5-5 (.700)
FloridaHSFootball.com: 7-3 (.700)

Season Records:
Joe Pinkos: 24-6 (.800)
USA TODAY: 20-10 (.666)
FloridaHSFootball.com: 19-11 (.633)

The post FloridaHSFootball.com’s Top 10 Games of the Week for Week 4 Preview appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

Thursday, August 20
Lake Mary vs. Mainland at Daytona Beach Municipal Stadium
2014 Records: Lake Mary, 11-1; Mainland, 13-1
Why: A young Ram defense will grow up quickly with opening games against state ranked teams Mainland, Bolles and Dr. Phillips. First up is Mainland who is 47-8 over the last four years with three state semifinal losses to Miami Central. A young Ram offense featuring Marquis Mickens and Alexander Tichonoff will face a lethal defense that accumulated 88 sacks, 18 interceptions, recovered 13 fumbles and blocked 2 punts and features playmakers Jachai Polite, Cy Fagan, Kevin Gilliard and Kevin McCrary.

Lake Gibson vs. Lakeland at Bryant Stadium, Lakeland
2014 Records: Lake Gibson, 9-2; Lakeland 11-1
TV: Bright House Sports Network, Tampa Bay
Why: Since 1993, Lakeland has made 22 straight playoff appearances, tied for the second longest streak in the state behind St. Thomas Aquinas. Five state titles over a ten-year period have made expectations even higher every year. Can playmakers junior AJ Davis (1,388 yards, 16 TDs), junior James Robinson (382 yards, 3 TDs) and senior Tariq Young (242 yards on 25 catches) lead the Naughts back to Orlando? Since 2000, the Braves under Keith DeMyer (106-37) have made the playoffs 10 of the last 12 years, including finishing as state runner-ups in 2003 and 2004; but haven’t won a playoff game since 2010 carrying a four game losing streak.

Friday, August 21
Apopka at Columbia
2014 Records: Apopka, 11-4; Columbia, 8-3
Radio: WBZW 1520 AM, Apopka; WCJX 106.5 FM, Lake City
Why: Columbia will know right away what their strengths and weaknesses are bringing in an Apopka program to the Jungle that has won 2 of the last 3 state titles in 8A. Tiger defensive back Roger Cray, who committed to Georgia Southern, will have his hands full trying to defend an Apopka offense, which can keep defenses guessing with their single wing trickery led by quarterback Demetri Burch and tailback Deshawn Massey.

East Lake at Sunlake
2014 Records: East Lake 13-1, Sunlake 9-3
Why: In seven years, Sunlake has become the model of how to build a program from scratch. Coach Bill Browning has guided the Seahawks to a 45-10 record the last five years, including three playoff appearances. East Lake rolled into the state semifinals undefeated only to leave with their first loss at the hands of the eventual state champ St. Thomas Aquinas. With mega recruit George Campbell gone, who will step up and emerge as the Eagles new leader.

Heritage at Vero Beach
2014 Records: Heritage, 8-4; Vero Beach 11-1
Radio: WSCF 91.9 FM, Vero Beach
Why: Opened in 2009, Heritage didn’t take long to establish itself with not only making back-to-back playoff trips, but also consecutive Elite 8 appearances, losing to eventual state champion Miami Central both years. Senior Deshaun Mills (1,386 yards, 14 TDs), junior Lasedrick King (1058 yards, 11 TDs) and senior Josh Gaines (1,282 yards, 10 TDs) are all back and look to lead an offense that ran for nearly 4,000 yards last season. A solid senior receiving core of MJ McGriff (1,545 yards, 23 TDs), Chris Larsen (583 yards, 6 TDs) and Sean Harvey (493 yards, 5 TDs) are all back for the Indians.

Raines vs. Godby at Gene Cox Stadium, Tallahassee
2014 Records: Raines, 8-4; Godby, 12-3
Why: Trying to prove itself as a legitimate state title contender, the Vikings featuring Rick Wells (Sr., WR), Ronald Patterson (Sr., WR), Alex Rutledge (Sr., RB), Michael Pinckney (Sr., LB), Solomon Kindley (Sr., DL), Jaquan Bailey (Sr., DL) and Joshua Bailey (Sr., DL), travel to Tallahassee for a challenge. Godby might be very young but they are still very talented behind senior quarterback Darius Bradwell (1,330 passing, 895 rushing, 28 TDs)

North Marion vs. Booker T. Washington at Traz Powell Stadium, Miami
2014 Records: North Marion, 8-3; Booker T. Washington, 14-0
Why: Coach Stephen Field takes his loaded North Marion team down back home to South Florida to take on the three time defending 4A state champs. Senior quarterback Caleb Seller (2,187 yards, 15 TDs) and senior athlete Freddie Swain (811 yards, 6 TDs). What an offseason it was for the Tornadoes after winning their third title in a row as head coach Tim Harris, Jr. departed for FIU and several key playmakers transferring to other schools. The Tornadoes currently hold the longest win streak in the state at 41 wins.

Columbus at Winter Haven
2014 Records: Columbus, 13-2; Winter Haven, 10-2
Why: Charlie Tate has built a program at Winter Haven, making the playoffs 9 of the last 10 years, including six straight second round appearances. What a way to start the season for senior quarterback William Tate (1620 yards, 19 TDs) than a great test against the 2014 Class 8A state runner-ups. Columbus rolled through the regular season with just one loss to Central and stunned Flanagan in the state semis before dropping a close one to Apopka in the state final.

West Orange at Kissimmee Osceola
2014 Records: West Orange, 11-1; Osceola, 13-2
Why: Warriors took a huge step with first undefeated season and first playoff win. Playmakers Auburn commit senior quarterback Woody Barrett (1,558 passing, 813 rushing, 24 TDs) and senior wide receiver Eddie McDoom (792 yards, 14 TDs) are back. Kowboys accumulated nearly 5000 yards rushing and 65 touchdowns last season and return five of their top six rushers including Laderrien Wilson (1902 yards, 28 TDs), Marcus Edwards, Nazayah Brown and Isiah Wilson.

Saturday, August 22
Plantation American Heritage at IMG Academy
2014 Records: American Heritage, 12-3; IMG Academy, 9-1
TV: Bright House Sports Network, Tampa Bay
Why: IMG has assembled an all-star team with 5-star recruits from all over the country including senior kicker Ricky Aguayo, senior cornerback Saivion Smith, and senior quarterback Shea Patterson as it seeks to win its first national title. The Patriots have won back-to-back Class 5A state titles and are poised to repeat again behind tailback Kyshaun Bryan (825 yards, 7 TDs), and receiver Brandon Johnson (430 yards, 7 TDs).

Honorable Mention: Venice at Plant, Suwannee at Madison County, Lakewood at Naples, Oxbridge at Fort Pierce Central, Orange City University at DeLand, Jacksonville Trinity Christian at Union County, North Fort Myers at Fort Myers

The post Top 10 kickoff classic games to watch this weekend appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

1. Lakeland Dreadnaughts
2014 Record: (11-1)
Why: Since 1993, Lakeland has made 22 straight playoff appearances, tied for the second longest streak in the state behind St. Thomas Aquinas. Five state titles over a ten-year period has made expectations even higher every year. Fans have been a little restless though, as the Naughts haven’t made the state finals since 2008 or advanced past the third round since 2011, thanks to nemesis Osceola the last three years. Is this the year they take a huge step forward? This might be with nemesis Osceola no longer in the way and several play makers returning including junior tailback AJ Davis (162 carries, 1388 yards, 16 TDs), junior wide receiver (19 catches, 382 yards, 3 TDs), senior wide receiver Tariq Young (25 catches, 242 yards), senior linebacker Kelvin Broome (88 tackles, 23.5 tackles for loss) and senior punter (34 yards a punt).

2. Winter Haven Blue Devils
2014 Record: (10-2)
Why: Three consecutive playoff appearances has set off a frenzy of excitement for head coach Charle Tate. Over the last two years over 200 kids have shown up at practice, including 110 this year, so enthusiam is very high. The bad news is only seven starters are back (4 offense, 3 defense) including junior quarterback William Tate (109 of 182 for 1620 yards, 19 TDs, 6 INTs), junior lineman Joe Issacs, senior tailback Te’kendrick Roberson, tight end Chayce Armbruster, senior defensive backs Ohaji Hawkins and Javonte Arius and senior lineman Eric Hollis. Roberson and Armbruster shined in the spring combining for four touchdowns showing the Devils offense won’t slow down, while the defense pitched a shutout in a 45-0 win over Haines City. Getting to the playoffs hasn’t been the problem for the Devils, its getting past the second round three straight years, now it’s time to take the next step.

3. Lake Gibson Braves
2014 Record: (9-2)
Why: Next to arch-rival Lakeland, there isn’t another program in Polk County that can match the Braves postseason consistency. Since 2000, the Braves have made the playoffs 10 of the last 12 years, including finishing as state runner-ups in 2003 and 2004. Under Keith DeMyer (106-37) the Braves have been the model program but haven’t won a playoff game since 2010 carrying a four game losing streak. Perhaps this is the year. Carrying the team is an offensive line that returns four of its five starters including Baveon Johnson (FSU commit) and Michael Wiggs, both heavily recruited Division I-A players. Who runs behind them is still a mystery as DeMyer had to replace all of skill players. Senior Hunter Orem, a FIU commit, moved from defensive back, back to quarterback and will likely have senior receiver Dariaze Kirkland (255 yards, 1 TD), sophomore receiver Antonio Denson and senior tightend Ledarian McAllister as weapons. Defensively, the Braves will be led by senior end Francisco Nelson (FAU commit), senior tackle Keyshon Camp (71 tackles, 5 sacks) junior linebacker AJ Deshazor (120 tackles, 1 INT) and senior safety Derrien Bomar (62 tackles, 5 pass breakups).

4. Lakeland Christian Vikings
2014 Record: (11-2)
Why: Coming off the schools first district title and first ever playoff win, the Vikings have all the momentum heading into this season. Play makers senior athlete RB Marlow (65 catches, 1118 yards, 16 TDs), junior receiver Larenz Deshazor (53 catches, 959 yards, 12 TDs), senior receiver Nick Dusse (10 catches, 196 yards, 3 TDs), senior tailback B.J. Sirmons (60 carries 343 yards, 3 TDs, 611 all-purpose yards) are all back. With Iron Man Christian Alexander graduated, head Coach Wayne Peace had to find a replacement at quarterback and got it when Tyler Wilkerson (42 of 96, 490 yards, 6 TDs, 3 INTs) transfered in from Auburndale. The defense is solid led by sophomore Logan Mason (118 tackles) and senior lineman Will Smaha (40 tackles, 5.5 sacks).

5. Victory Christian Storm
2014 Record: (13-1)
Why: Coaching football is like putting a jigsaw puzzle together the two go hand in hand. Last year,, Victory had all the right pieces and was able to put it all together to win the schools first state title. A year later, head coach Tommy Lewis spent all spring and summer trying to fill the missing pieces. Ironman Caleb Lewis is gone as is 10 other significant starters who all signed college scholarships. A pair of losses to Pahokee 14-0 and Glades Central 21-0 in the spring jamboree allowed coach Lewis to get an idea of what had to be addressed. The defense is ahead of the offense clearly and returns senior LB Gerald Poleon (83 tackles, 3 sacks, 34 quarterback pressures), sophomore DL Taquan Brown (70 tackles, 3 sacks), sophomore DB/RB Ja’Ques Stone (32 tackles, 4 INT, 10 pass breakups) and junior LB Ethan Rashid (93 tackles). Lewis moved senior Jarret Hicks from receiver to quarterback in the spring. Hicks and senior Deondre Pride, also a defensive lineman, battled it out in the spring for the starting job.

6. Lake Wales Highlanders
2014 Record: (8-3)
Why: Second year head coach Tavaris Johnson hasn’t forgotten about last year’s accomplishments, he just chooses to move on. Winning a district title was great but a 42-6 beat down at home in the first round of the playoffs kind of spoiled the season. Spring was more than just filling holes and replacing seniors, it was more about team chemistry and doing whatever it takes to keep it going. Johnson changed the offense dropping the veer for the spread to take advantage of senior quarterback Xavier Gaines talents. Gaines along with a trio of senior receivers starters Stanley Smith and Josh Dunn and a pair of senior transfers receiver Mustafa Majeed from California and Anthony Gardner from Frostproof will form the bulk of the Highlanders offense. The defense took a hit with graduation, but Johnson is pleased with the direction of several newcomers including Chonsey Christian, Dalvin Grant, Torrell Richardson, Jamal Shipman, Gage Rickman and Curtis Spruell, who returned to Lake Wales after a year at Winter Haven.

7. Fort Meade Miners
2014 Record: (6-4)
Why: There are plenty of reasons to be excited about the upcoming season for head coach Jemalle Cornelius. The biggest being the realistic chance of competing for a state title once again. Fort Meade drops to 1A and will only compete against similiar small public schools like itself, including Pahokee and Frostproof. Begining in 1997, the Miners reeled off 16 straight playoff appearances; but hasn’t been back since 2012. This could be the year, with the drop in class and the return of senior tailback Tyler King (975 yards), senior quarterback Jessie Henson (69 of 112 for 980 yards, 8 TDs), junior athlete Ladarius Clark, sophomore athlete Jy’Quez Wright and four key lineman senior Nate Music, junior Bryce Nelson, sophomore Cleveland Reed and Xavier Johnson. Senior receiver Alvin Harvey, freshman quarterback Dearrick Howard and sophomore cornerback Anfernee Clark will also have key roles.

8. DeSoto County Bulldogs
2014 Record: (8-3)
Why: What a turn around for Matt Egloff and the Bulldogs, from 2-8 two years ago to 8-3 and in the playoffs a year later. One of those eight wins was a stunning 23-18 win over arch-rival Hardee, which not only stopped a five game losing streak but also clinched the district title. Now can Egloff keep it going and carry that enthusiasm over into this season again. Senior defensive back/tailback Caleb Blackwood (2 INTs in spring), junior defensive back/tailback Nirion Washington, senior linebacker/fullback Quay Fudge, senior cornerback/wide receiver Julio Gaitan, senior linebacker Stefan Williams, junior linebacker/wide receiver Emmanuel Wesley will look to keep it going.

9. Auburndale Bloodhounds
2014 Record: (6-5)
Why: The motto for Auburndale heading into the fall could clearly be ‘A new beginning’. As is a new head coach, new coaching staff, new offense, new defense, new quarterback and new players. Assistant coach Billy Deeds takes over the job and despite returning both senior tailbacks Artavis Pierce (1126 yards, 12 TDs) and Jessie Britt (500 yards, 11 TDs, 151 receiving, 3 TDs), he dumped the wing-t offense for the spread. Chauncey Smart and Isaiah Smith along with Britt at times will form the wideouts. Getting them the ball will be either sophomore Cequaveon Mathis, a transfer from Bartow or junior Cody Miller. Not a lot what learned about the new offensive changes as their spring game was called four minutes into the second quarter in a scoreless game with Tenorac.

10. Haines City Hornets
2014 Record: (6-4)
Why: Jake Chapman was thrown into the fire so to speak last year hired just days before their kickoff classic. Despite having to quickly hire a staff and deal with eligibility issues, Chapman still guided the Hornets to a winning season losing in a three team district tiebreaker. A year later, Chapman has had plenty of time to start putting things in place to run his program. If the spring is any indication the Hornets still have a long way to go though being shut out 47-0 to Winter Haven.

Next Five On The Bubble: Bartow, Frostproof, Hardee, Kathleen, Sebring

The post 2015 Preview Guide: Heartland Region Rankings – Preseason appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

Here are the 2015 Super 16 selections for the Heartland Region

Justin Andrews (Sr., DL), Kathleen
Why: Andrews was one of the bright spots for Kathleen last year as he collected up 65 tackles including 12 tackle for a loss, eight sacks and recovered 2 fumbles for the Red Devils.

James Blake (Jr., DE), Lake Placid
Why: Although Lake Placid was 1-9 last season, Blake was one of the few bright spots on the team wrapping up 77 tackles, 10.5 sacks and 2 pass breakups.

Kelvin Broome (Sr., LB), Lakeland
Why: Broome is a big reason why Lakeland continues to be a force in the Heartland Region. Broome’s is considered to be the leader of the Dreadnaughts defense. Last year, Broome racked up 88 tackles and 23.5 tackles for loss.

Keyshon Camp (Sr., DL), Lake Gibson
Why: Camp who has been one of the top athletes for the Braves racked up 60 tackles last season including 16 tackles for a loss and 6 sacks. He is a recent commit to Southern California as reported by our partners at USA TODAY High School Sports.

A.J. Davis (Jr., RB), Lakeland
Why: When Lakeland needed a big play last season, the go to guy usually delivered. Davis finished the 2014 season with 1,388 yards and 16 touchdowns on 162 carries and is expected to be one of the key leaders for the Dreadnaught offense this season.

A.J. Deshazor (Jr., LB), Lake Gibson
Why: Despite being an underclassmen, Deshazor quickly became one of the defensive leaders racking up 120 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery and 1 pass breakup. Deshazor will be a big leader this season for the Braves defense.

Larenz Deshazor (Jr, WR), Lakeland Christian
Why: With plenty of weapons to choose from, it is a wonder he was able to do what he did coming up with 53 catches for 959 yards and 12 touchdowns during the Viking’s magical run to the state semifinals last season.

Xavier Gaines (Sr., QB), Lake Wales
Why: Gaines attracted a lot of attention last season and picked up offers from Alabama, Auburn, Baylor and Texas to date. Although his stats are not available from the 2014 season at this time, we knew he belonged here.

Jessie Henson (Sr., QB), Fort Meade
Why: His primary job is to hand the ball off to Tyler King and let him do his thing; however Henson showed he has an arm too throwing for 980 yards, 8 touchdowns and five interceptions.

Baveon Johnson (Sr., OL), Lake Gibson
Why: While stats for an offensive linemen are the hardest to keep track, but when you help your team have a 1,000-plus yard rusher last season, then that is a stat that will stick out. Expect Johnson to be a key player once again for the Braves’ offensive line this season.

Tyler King (Sr., RB), Fort Meade
Why: The versatile back has at least four offers on the table and that’s just the beginning if he can duplicate any kind of performance like last season where he ran for 975 yards and 14 touchdowns

RB Marlow (Sr., ATH), Lakeland Christian
Why: With several weapons to choose from, Marlow still put up 65 catches for 1,118 yards and 16 touchdowns as well as 34 tackles and 3 interceptions on defense.

Artavis Pierce (Sr., RB), Auburndale
Why: In a Wing-T offense, Pierce scorched opposing defenses last season for 1,126 yards and 12 touchdowns en route to helping the Bloodhounds reach the playoffs and should be a key weapon again this season.

Gerald Poleon (Sr., DL, LB), Victory Christian
Why: Poleon had to be a nightmare for opposing offensive coordinators and quarterbacks after racking up 83 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, three sacks, 34 quarterback pressures and two forced fumbles.

Deondre Pride (Sr., ATH), Victory Christian
Why: Pride can play both sides of the ball and might even end up playing quarterback this season despite accumulating 69 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 18 quarterback hurries, two interceptions, 13 pass breakups, three fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.

William Tate (Sr., QB), Winter Haven
Why: The main leader on a Blue Devils offense didn’t disappoint completing 109 of 182 passes for 1,620 yards, 19 touchdowns and six interceptions last season.

Honorable Mention
Auburndale: Jessie Britt (Sr., RB/WR)
Avon Park: Montrae Braswell (So., DB)
Hardee: Trequan Holley (Sr., DB)
Lakeland: James Robinson (Jr., WR)
Lakeland Christian: Logan Mason (So., LB)
Ridge Community: Ty Eaton (Jr., QB)
Victory Christian: Ethan Rashid (Jr., LB)

Photo Credits
247 Sports: Broome, Camp, Davis, A. Deshazor, Gaines, Johnson Pierce
Hudl: L. Deshazor, Henson, King, Marlow, Pride, Tate
Polk County Football: Andrews

The post 2015 Preview Guide: Heartland Region Super 16 appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

August 21
Columbus at Winter Haven
Note: Charlie Tate has built a solid program at Winter Haven, making the playoffs 9 of the last 10 years, including six straight regional semifinal appearances. What a way to start the season than a great test against the 2014 Class 8A State Runner-up.

August 28
Victory Christian at Pasco
Note: The defending Class 2A state champs Storm will find out where they stand immediately. Pasco, which has advanced to the third round of the playoffs 3 of the last 7 years, missed the playoffs last season for the first time in years stopping a seven-year run.

September 4
Lake Wales at Merritt Island
Note: Two of the most well-known teams to have won multiple state championships will meet this year in Merritt Island. This will be a great test for both programs since it is early in the season that should both teams if they reach the playoffs this season.

September 11
Miami Carol City at Lakeland
Note: Since 2004, the Dreadnaughts have made it a point to schedule some of the top teams from Miam-Dade and Broward Counties. This year Miami Carol City, likely the fourth best team in Miami-Dade County, makes the trip up north.

September 18
Viera at Kathleen
Note: The much-improved Viera team will make a trip over to Lakeland take on Kathleen in which should be a great test for both teams. Viera is loaded with talent and in most years Kathleen is as well. Fans should get their monies worth from this game.

September 25
Suwannee at Lake Wales
Note: Suwannee will be making a nice, long road trip this season to take on a Lake Wales program that has just as much history as themselves. Both teams have several Division I prospects and both could easily upset the other depending on how well each team starts out the first weeks of the season.

October 2
Land O’Lakes at Lakeland Christian
Note: One of the top teams in Pasco makes the trip across I-4 to take on the Vikings. Beginning in 1997, the Gators made the state playoffs 14 consecutive years, however have fallen on hard times and missed the playoffs since 2010.

October 9
Lakeland Christian at Melbourne Central Catholic
Note: Good test for the Vikings who begin district play a week later. Rematch of a first round playoff game last season in which Lakeland Christian held off Melbourne Central Catholic 32-26.

October 16
Winter Haven at Lakeland
Note: The two best public schools in Polk County face off, in what will be a good chance for the Blue Devils to take over the county. Whoever does come out on top will likely be sitting in the drives seat in the District 7A-7 standings.

October 23
Fort Meade at Pahokee
Note: Both teams shockingly dropped down from Class 3A to Class 1A, setting up this huge showdown with the District 1A-8 likely to be on the line.

Blanche Ely at Lakeland
Note: Since 2004, the Dreadnaughts have made it a point to schedule some of the top teams from Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Since 1999, Blanche Ely has made the playoffs 13 of the last 15 years including a state championship in 2002.

October 30
Kathleen at Lakeland
Note: Kathleen stunned Lakeland 24-3 two years ago to not only win the District 5-7A title, but more imporantly stop a 19 consecutive game losing streak to its arch-rival. Kathleen attempted to win back-to-back games over its rival for the first time since 1975-1976, but that didn’t happen as Lakeland won an offensive struggle 21-2 to improve to 37-12 in the all-time series.

DeSoto County at Hardee
Note: The states oldest continuously played rivalry has been one-sided for a while. Hardee, which holds a 28 game lead in the series, had won five in a row in the series and 18 out of 21 since 1993, however DeSoto County stunned Hardee last season to earn its first win in the series since 2008.

November 6
Avon Park at Sebring
Note: The states third oldest rivalry has seen its share of up and downs. Hard to believe this but from 1926 to 1967 Avon Park once dominated the Highlands County rivalry. Since then its been all Sebring, who has won nine in a row and 20 out of last 25 in the series including a 30-6 win last season.

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The post 2015 Preview Guide: Heartland Region top games for 2015 appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

Some of the state’s best and oldest rivalries dating back over 90 years have been contested right in the Heartland Region.

Lakeland & Kathleen

Series: Lakeland leads, 37-12
Next meeting: October 30 at Lakeland
Note: Kathleen stunned Lakeland 24-3 two years ago to not only win the District 7A-5 title, but more importantly stop a 19 consecutive game losing streak to its arch-rival. The last time Kathleen knocked off Lakeland, future NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis was roaming the sidelines which was in the early 1990’s. Kathleen attempted to win back-to-back games over its rival for the first time since 1975-1976, but that didn’t happen as Lakeland won in a offensive struggle 21-2.

Results over the last five years:
2014: Lakeland 21, Kathleen 2
2013: Kathleen 24, Lakeland 3
2012: Lakeland 28, Kathleen 27
2011: Lakeland 31, Kathleen 21
2010: Lakeland 47, Kathleen 13

Hardee & DeSoto County

Series: Hardee leads 58-31-5
Next meeting: October 30 at Hardee
Notes: The states oldest continuously played rivalry has played for the Walter F. Buck Carlton Trophy since 1965. The trophy was temporarily retired in 1972 after three consecutive DeSoto County wins, a stipulation of the original trophy presenter, but was brought back in 1982. Hardee, which holds a 28 game lead in the series, had won five in a row in the series and 18 out of 21 since 1993, however DeSoto  County stunned Hardee last season to earn its first win in the series since 2008.

Results over the last five years:
2014: DeSoto County 23, Hardee 18
2013: Hardee 26, DeSoto County 7
2012: Hardee 21, DeSoto County 13
2011: Hardee 42, DeSoto County 6
2010: Hardee 14, DeSoto County 12

Avon Park &  Sebring

Series: Sebring leads 52-40-1
Next meeting: November 6 at Sebring
Note: The states third oldest rivalry has seen its share of up and downs. Hard to believe this but from 1926 to 1967 Avon Park once dominated the Highlands County rivalry. Since then its been all Sebring, who has won nine in a row and 20 out of last 25 in the series including a 30-6 win last season.

Results over the last five seasons:
2014: Sebring 30, Avon Park 6
2013: Sebring 44, Avon Park 14
2012: Sebring 36, Avon Park 0
2011: Sebring 45, Avon Park 0
2010: Sebring 34, Avon Park 0

Bartow & Lake Wales

Series: Began in 1970, Lake Wales leads 23-21
Next meeting: November 6 at Bartow
Notes: Bartow dominated the rivalry early in the annual showdown, but Lake Wales has had the upper-hand lately. The Highlanders have won nine in a row and 15 out of the last 17 in the series, after a 32-18 win last season.

Results over the last five seasons:
2014: Lake Wales 32, Bartow 18
2013: Lake Wales 55, Bartow 20
2012: Lake Wales 45, Bartow 15
2011: Lake Wales 41, Bartow 0
2010: Lake Wales 37, Bartow 7

Winter Haven & Auburndale

Series: Began 90 years ago
Next meeting: August 28 at Winter Haven
Notes: The rivalry between near by county rivals dates over 90 years. Winter Haven has won six in a row recently and 8 of the last 11 in the series.

Results over the last five seasons:
2014: Winter Haven 43, Auburndale 13
2013: Winter Haven 42, Auburndale 9
2012: Winter Haven 22, Auburndale 3
2011: Winter Haven 34, Auburndale 17
2010: Winter Haven 54, Auburndale 0

Honorable Mention: Fort Meade & Frostproof, Lakeland & Lake Gibson, Kathleen & Lake Gibson, Bartow & Fort Meade, Lake Wales & Haines City, Fort Meade & Mulberry

The post 2015 Preview Guide: Top Rivalries in the Heartland Region appeared first on FloridaHSFootball.com.

Nine teams across the region made the playoffs last season, however only Victory Christian and Lakeland Christian advanced past the second round.

A year after falling short in the Class 2A title game, Victory made sure it didn’t happen again, claiming the programs first ever state title behind a 54-16 win over Indian Rocks Christian.

In four playoff games, Victory scored at least 40 points every game and was challenged just once in a tight 41-34 win over Warner Christian in the second round.

Lakeland Christian escaped Melbourne Central Catholic 32-26 in the first round and had little trouble with First Academy 53-27 in the second round before falling to Trinity Christian (Jacksonville), the eventual 2014 state champion, 43-28 in the state semifinals.

Winter Haven and Lakeland both advanced to the second round of the state playoffs, but was knocked off by South Fort Myers and Osceola (Kissimmee) respectively.

Bartow, Auburndale, Lake Wales, Avon Park and DeSoto County all fell in the first round of the playoffs.

Can Victory do it again and repeat? Will Lakeland Christian be this year’s Cinderella team to make it to the state finals?

For these and other questions we will soon find out.

Chasing History

The four county area (Polk, Highlands, Hardee, Henry) that makes up the Heartland Region has seen its share of success over the last 50 years with 17 state titles and 25 state runner-up finishes.

Here is a list of the areas state champions and state runner ups.

State Champions

• Haines City (1973)

• Bartow (1977, 1985, 1996)

• Lakeland (1986, 1996, 1999, 2004, 2005, 2006)

• Avon Park (1987, 1988)

• Frostproof (1974, 1992, 1999)

• Fort Meade (2004)

• Victory Christian (2014)

State Runner-Ups

• Hardee (1965, 1988)

• Avon Park (1966)

• Auburndale (1967)

• Kathleen (1968)

• Haines City (1971, 1991)

• Frostproof (1972, 1981, 1991, 1996)

• Fort Meade (1973, 1993, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2008)

• Lake Wales (1993, 1994)

• Lake Gibson (2003)

• Victory Christian (2006, 2013)

• Lakeland (2008)

Coaching Changes

Of the 100+ coaching changes across the state, only four of those changes were in the Heartland Region.

• Auburndale:Kenneth Graham, Billy Deeds

• Bartow: Jason Butler, Jake McCrae

• Lake Region: Randy Howze, W. Gee Roe (interim)

• Lake Placid: Jason Robinson, Jerry Hundell

Up and Coming

Jordan Christian Prep announced it will have football and basketball as the school opens for the first time in 2015.

According to the Lakeland Ledger, the small private school located in Auburndale named Grady Morrell III as its inaugural football coach. Morrell, who starred at Victory Christian and Webber International,  is expecting to field a team between 25 to 30 players this season.

The team which, will be nicknamed the Seahawks, will take on a full varsity schedule this season with other teams around the state including Warner Christian, Foundation Academy and Carrollwood Day.

Jordan Christian Prep was just recently accepted as a member to the Florida High School Athletic Association.

Airing It Out

Hundreds of teams get on a bus and drive hours across the state and sometimes even across state lines every weekend competing in 7-on-7 tournaments.

The lure to compete against some of the top teams in the state and nation, has led to regional and national championships over the years.

However, for every 200 teams that compete, there are 50 that choose to stay in town and compete against local teams during the week and work on team unity.

Avon Park, Hardee and Sebring are three teams who chose to stay home and compete each week.

On a warm Tuesday afternoon over the summer, Hardee, Avon Park and Okeechobee traveled to Sebring to kick off the Heartland 7-on-7 league, now it its third year.

“We’re just trying to get a little competition and find chemistry with the team,” Sebring quarterback Brian Lane told the Highlands Today.

It’s not really a question of who wins or loses, as scoring is hardly tracked, the whole purpose of the league is just to get in work and get better before the real season begins.

“We’re just looking to see how kids compete and if they’re doing we’re coaching them to do,” Sebring coach LaVaar Scott told the Highlands Today.

Getting Dirty

While high school football teams all over the state concentrate on sending all of their skill players every weekend to 7-on-7 tournaments; in many cases the rest of the team is often ignored.

Lineman aren’t allowed to take part in 7-on-7 and have to rely on college camps and other camps to get work in over the summer and to get college recruiters attentions.

One of the best known camps to attend every summer is held in the Heartland Region.

For the 23rd straight year, hundreds of lineman compete against some of the best lineman from Florida and surrounding states at the Bishop Dullaghan Down and Dirty camp at Webber University.

Over two days, more than 600 lineman faced off in friendly one-on-one drills, Oklahoma drills and individual drills from high school and college coaches.

The two-day camp is ran by former Lake Wales and current Warner University football coach Rod Shafer.

“The game changes and if you don’t change with it, you will be a dinosaur. I was a veer coach for a hundred years at Lake Wales but the spread is here. Kissimmee Osceola is really good at long arming (blocking), so we bring in one of their coaches to teach that,” Shafer told the Lakeland Ledger.

Two local kids Lake Gibson senior Michael Wiggs and Ridge Community were a few of the 600 players on hand.

“I came in (last year) and was able to get conditioned for summer camp and school. I feel like I picked up one or two things technique-wise. I am a technician and I was able implement these things into my game,” Wiggs told the Lakeland Ledger.

McDonald, who claims eight Division-I offers including, Marshall, USF and Tulane, told the Lakeland Ledger, “”I like it because it is real physical. I like that they focus on linemen, both offense and defense. We all help each other.”

Road Trip

When a University of Georgia coach came to visit a kid during spring practice and didn’t end up offering him a college scholarship, one coach decided to do his part to make sure this wouldn’t happen again.

Former Texas Tech defensive back Ricky Sailor, who was working as an assistant coach at Tampa Jefferson, saw the event and came up with a brilliant idea.

Sailor gathered some kids and drove them to Georgia’s football camp and one of those was offered a scholarship right there.

A year later, Sailor founded Unsigned Preps and began a bus tour with 23 players visiting several college campuses and the Unsigned Preps Bus Tour was born.

This summer, there were two busses with 80 kids including two from Avon Park, Montrae Braswell and Warren Buckner, who toured South Florida, Florida, Georgia Tech, North Carolina, Clemson and Georgia. Other coaches from Michigan, Central Michigan, Savannah State and Eastern Kentucky were also on hand at various stops.

“It’s a great thing for them to be seen by the different colleges,” Avon Park football coach Wade Jackson told the Highlands Today. “The colleges want to get the players on campus and see them, time them in the 40 and see them first-hand.”

Buckner said “It’s a great learning experience and there’s nothing like stepping onto the field of a school like Clemson or Georgia. It makes you want to get there and you grind harder the next day.

“You can’t help but improve when you’re going against the likes of the players they made the trip with. “They’re some of the top players in the nation,” he said. “It’s fun being around that atmosphere and competing and getting better every day.”

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