When Chris Reid took over South Dade’s football program last year, many who knew him felt pretty good about the Bucs turning things back around.
For someone who knew the community and landscape of the area, this was the perfect fit to return this program where it had been for so many years.
Going two rounds deep in the state playoffs and finishing 8-4 may not be earth-shattering to some, but for this team and its returning players, it meant that turning the corner came a lot faster than most expected.
There is no denying that the athletes this program has long attracted are a cut above – combining versatility to a toughness that is hard to find.
The Bucs beat Pembroke Pines West Broward in the opening round of the state playoffs before dropping a tough contest to eventual 4M state champion Miami Christopher Columbus.
Reid and South Dade headed into this off-season feeling pretty good – with rising seniors (Class of 2025) ready to make an impact with athletic ability and leadership.
Among those prospects include Haman Andrews (LB, 6-0, 215 – 2.5 GPA), Jakari Blackman (RB, 5-11, 180 – 2.6 GPA), X’zayvion Clayton (DB/WR, 5-10, 170 – 2.5 GPA), highly-regarded transfer Dylan Gil (LB, 6-3, 215 – 2.5 GPA), John Jones (OL. 6-4, 260 – 3.5 GPA), versatile Sedric Melvin (WR/DB, 5-8, 180 – 2.8 GPA), Ta’darius Williams (OL/DL, 6-2, 265 – 2.7 GPA) and emerging linebacker Nicholas Wilton (6-1, 175 – 3.2 GPA).
A TOP 2026 CLASS EMERGES
While the rising seniors will give this program experience and talent, the Class of 2026 (rising juniors) may have as many playmakers as anyone in south Florida – with under-the-radar Jean Calixte (QB/Athlete, 6-1, 170 – 2.7 GPA), dominating Tedarius Hughes (DB, 6-2, 170 – 2.5 GPA), Brandon Jeudi (OL/DL, 5-10, 265 – 2.5 GPA), highly recruited Tedrick Lee (DB, 6-1, 185 – 3.0 GPA) and running back Varian Terry (RB, 5-6, 155 – 2.7 GPA).
The future is also bright with 2027 prospects Brandon Howard (DL, 5-11, 220)
And secondary standout Armond Weston (5-10, 170).
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MIAMI HERALD
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 54 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein) Instagram (@OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@larryblustein). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..