For nearly three quarters last Saturday afternoon, it looked like California’s national powerhouse Mater Dei would have its way with Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas.
With an ESPN national audience looking on, the No. 1 team in the country – the defending national champion Monarchs – were in total control, but the Raiders refused to quit and came roaring back, eventually losing 26-23, but in the process turned plenty of heads.
The six-time defending state champions showed why they are one of the top teams in the country, and while they came away with a loss and started 0-1 for the second straight year, this team is indeed talented and deserves to be the No. 1 program in south Florida after the first week.
With losses by Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna and Miami Northwestern, this program slid into the top spot.
Here is a look at Week 2 in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties:
1 Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas (5A, 0-1). Six-time defending state champions dropped a thrilling ESPN contest to the No. 1 team in the country, 26-23. THIS WEEK: 8/29 – Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @No. 7 Miami Christopher Columbus.
2. Plantation American Heritage (4A, 1-0). The defending state champion Patriots came from 28-0 down to beat Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep, 31-28 on ESPN 2. THIS WEEK: Bye. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 – No. 4 Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna.
3. Miami Northwestern (3A, 0-1). The Bulls dropped their opener at home against California Trinity League power Orange Lutheran, 17-15. THIS WEEK: 8/29 – Venice. NEXT WEEK: 9/4 – Miami Carol City.
4. Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna (1A, 0-1). The Lions were soundly beaten in the Broward National Showcase by powerhouse Baltimore St. Frances Academy, 42-13. THIS WEEK: 8/29 - @Hollywood McArthur. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @No. 2 Plantation American Heritage.
5. Miami Central (3A, 0-0). Game against Jacksonville Raines was cancelled. THIS WEEK: 8/29 – No. 18 Miami Edison. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @Miami Booker T. Washington.
6. Miami Christopher Columbus (7A, 0-0). After several tries over three days, their season opener against No. 7 Miami Southridge was called with the Explorers winning 14-7 late in the third quarter. They will finish this game before the season is over – with the points being very valuable when playoff time rolls around. THIS WEEK: 8/29 - @Our Lady of Good Counsel, Maryland. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 – No. 1 Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas.
7. Miami Southridge (6A, 0-0). After several tries over three days, their season opener against No. 13 Miami Christipher Columbus was called with the Explorers winning 14-7 late in the third quarter. They will finish this game before the season is over – with the points being very valuable when playoff time rolls around. THIS WEEK: 8/28 - @Miami Lakes Barbara Goleman. NEXT WEEK: 9/4 - @ No. 10 Miami Palmetto.
8. Miami Norland (4A, 0-1). The Vikings blew a large lead on the road against 7A power Lake Mary and lost, 30-29. THIS WEEK: 8/28 - @Miami Carol City. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @Homestead South Dade.
9. Fort Lauderdale Dillard (4A, 1-0). The Panthers showed why they will be one of the best teams in the state this year when they shut out Orlando Dr. Phillips in the Broward National Showcase, 39-0. THIS WEEK: Fort Lauderdale Stranahan. NEXT WEEK: Fort Lauderdale Northeast.
10. Miami Palmetto (7A, 0-0). Game against Homestead was postponed due to bad weather and will be made up on Oct. 6. THIS WEEK: 8/29 – Miami Booker T. Washington. NEXT WEEK: 9/4 – No. 7 Miami Southridge.
11. Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy (4A, 1-0). If you wanted to know about the Mavericks, maybe you learned something from last week’s 42-35 Broward National Showcase win against Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons. THIS WEEK: 8/29 – Community School of Naples. NEXT WEEK: 9/4 - @Miami St. Brendan.
12. Plantation (4A, 1-0). The Colonels started the season off with a huge 18-0 win against Davie Western. THIS WEEK: 8/29 - @Miramar. NEXT WEEK: 9/4 - @ No. 15 Pembroke Pines West Broward.
13. Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy (5A, 1-0). The Lions opened the Tim “Ice” Harris era with a 34-12 win against Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy. THIS WEEK: 8/28 - @Doral Academy. NEXT GAME: 9/5 – Hialeah Gardens.
14. Coconut Creek Monarch (6A, 0-1). The Knights started the season in the Broward National Showcase for the second straight year, dropping a 34-15 decision to Jacksonville Bolles, 34-15. THIS WEEK: 8/29 - @Deerfield Beach. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @Ramsey John Bosco, New Jersey.
15. Pembroke Pines West Broward (6A, 0-1). Even though they dropped their opener against national power Corner Canyon, Utah in the Broward National Showcase, the Bobcats had some positive moments. THIS WEEK: 8/29 - @Camden County, Georgia. NEXT WEEK: 9/4 – No. 12 Plantation.
16. Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons (2A, 0-1). The Chiefs dropped an exciting Broward National Showcase game to Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy, 42-35. THIS WEEK: 8/29 - @Hollywood South Broward. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian.
17. Miami Edison (1A, 1-0). The Red Raiders started the season off on a positive note with a 45-0 win against Hialeah American. THIS WEEK: 8/29 – No. 5 Miami Central. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @Miami Killian.
18. Sunrise Piper (6A, 0-1). The Bengals began the season with a 31-6 setback in the Broward National Showcase to Peachtree Ridge, Georgia. THIS WEEK: 8/29 - @Coconut Creek. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @South Plantation.
19. Hollywood McArthur (5A, 0-0). Head Coach Robert Ortega and his team had the first week of the season off. THIS WEEK: 8/29 – No. 4 Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. NEXT WEEK: 9/5 - @Miramar.
20. Miami Lakes Barbara Goleman (7A, 1-0). The Gators started off the season with a convincing 62-21 win on the road at Key West. THIS WEEK: 8/28 – No. 7 Miami Southridge. NEXT WEEK: 9/4 - @Hialeah American.
Here are some other programs that you will be hearing from this coming season:
Independent
Fort Lauderdale University School (1-1)
Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy (1-0)
1A
Miami Archbishop Carroll (0-0)
Miami True North Classical Academy (0-1)
2A
Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian (1-0)
Miami Booker T. Washington (0-1)
Miami Carol City (1-0)
Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace (0-0)
Miami Gulliver Prep (0-0)
Miami Immaculata LaSalle (1-0)
North Miami Beach (0-1)
3A
Miami St. Brendan (0-0)
4A
Hialeah (0-1)
Miami Belen Jesuit (0-1)
5A
Coconut Creek (1-0)
Miramar (0-1)
North Miami (1-0)
Pompano Beach Blanche Ely (0-0)
6A
Doral Academy (0-0)
Miami Dr. Krop (0-0)
Pembroke Pines Flanagan (0-0)
7A
Davie Western (0-1)
Homestead South Dade (1-0)
Weston Cypress Bay (1-0)
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD TRANSFERS? WE HAVE THEM FOR YOU. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-off-to-a-huge-start-in-miami-dade-broward
For the past 55 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 (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Once again on Monday night the South Florida High School Sports Radio Show took center stage with seven impressive guests.
Each and every week, the FM 104.3 WQAM radio program attracts the newsmakers in high school sports, recruiting college sports – not only locally, but throughout the country.
The show gives listeners an opportunity to hear about college football programs statewide from the media that cover them. It also focuses on the coaches who use the state of Florida – Miami-Dade and Broward Counties in particular.
The show, which has run for nearly two decades, has become a popular listen for recruiting fans as well as high school sports purists, focusing on coaches and players in all sports.
Here is a look at the way Monday went:
Huge weekend of college football coming up for south Florida and Kendra Bulluck, Executive Director of the Orange Blossom Classic stopped by to break down the FIU-Bethune Cookman and Howard-Florida A&M games.
KENDRA BULLUCK ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/kendra-bulluck-executive-director-of-the-orange-blossom-classic-0202a
Great opening week of the 2025 high school football season and Josh Wilson from Florida High School Football took a look back and ahead at the season.
JOSH WILSON ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/josh-wilson-florida-high-school-football-dcdfb
The FSU Seminoles get ready for their opener on Saturday against national power Alabama and Liam Rooney from the Tallahassee Democrat looked at the game and season.
LIAM ROONEY ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/florida-state-university-football-beat-reporter-liam-rooney-of-the-tallahassee-democrat-1b1bf
The much-anticipated University of Miami and Notre Dame season opener is Sunday and Gaby Urrutia from InsideTheU stopped by to preview the matchup and season ahead.
GABY URRUTIA ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/gabby-urrutia-from-inside-the-u-8ef66
The West Boca Raton Bulls are the defending 6A state champions and will begin the season on Thursday against Palm Beach Central. Head Coach Dylan Potts talked about repeating as champions.
DYLAN POTTS ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/head-coach-dylan-potts-of-west-boca-raton-72a3c
Plantation American Heritage senior receiver Jamar Denson had a huge opening game as his team rallied from 28-0 to win their nationally televised opener against Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep. He talked about the game and the tough season ahead for the defending state champions.
JAMAR DENSON ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/jamar-denson-wide-receiver-of-american-heritage-plantation-30eae
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD TRANSFERS? WE HAVE THEM FOR YOU. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-off-to-a-huge-start-in-miami-dade-broward
For the past 55 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 (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
For decades when it came to getting high school football recognition for south Florida teams, it came down to traveling to California, Texas, Ohio, Nevada and to other areas of the country.
Four years ago when the Broward National High School Football Showcase was started by Shawn Cerra and Dr. Kevin Perry, it opened the flood gates for this region of the country, long one of the most fertile areas for talent, to finally get the spotlight – with area fans finally getting the chance to see some of the elite players from all over the country live.
Over the years, the Showcase has brought in elite competition from Georgia, Alabama, Virginia, Washington DC, California, Nevada and other areas across the nation.
We are indeed an area that takes many things for granted, and while winning is always important, just having the chance to get the No. 1 team in high school over the past decade – Mater Dei from Santa Ana, California, St. Frances Academy out of Baltimore, Maryland, St. Joseph’s Prep (Pennsylvania), Corner Canyon, Utah), Peachtree Ridge, Georgia, Jacksonville Bolles, Orlando Dr. Phillips and even Orange Lutheran that traveled to Miami to play one of our powerhouses Miami Northwestern.
Many have no clue how tough it is to host events like the showcase or bring teams from outside the area in for a few days. It’s life changing and something that other areas across the nation never attempt.
ESPN, Beacon TV and countless national, regional and local media members promoted the teams and players from Thursday right through Saturday night.
Maybe it’s time to say thank you to those who promote, sponsor and organize events that will provide memories that last a lifetime.
At a time when so many local administrators and “decision makers” continue to make it tough for social media and journalists to create avenues for our coaches and athletes, who put in so much time and need that exposure.
To those programs who came in from out of the area, we thank you and your schools for helping to elevate high school football nationally, and to our local schools and fans, we appreciate what you have done to assist in a process that only continues to grow.
As this season starts to unfold, that first week is now in the books and has provided something very positive to look back on.
Here is a look at the results from Miami-Dade and Broward County programs who kicked off the 2025 season:
Baltimore St. Frances Academy 42, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna 13
Boca Raton Christian 35, Deerfield Beach Somerset Key 17
Cooper City 10, Coral Springs Coral Glades 7
Coral Springs Charter 20, Fort Lauderdale Pine Crest 13 (OT)
Delray American Heritage 54, North Lauderdale Somerset Prep 0
Draper Corner Canyon, Utah 38, Pembroke Pines West Broward 13
Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian 42, Miami Belen Jesuit 11
Fort Lauderdale Dillard 39, Orlando Dr. Phillips 0
Fort Lauderdale NSU University School 30, Lakeland Christian 27
Fort Pierce Central 48, Davie Nova 13
Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy 34, Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy 12
Hollywood Hills 14, Coral Springs Taravella 3
Hollywood South Broward 21, Deerfield Beach 14
Homestead South Dade 43, Miami Booker T. Washington 20
Jacksonville Bolles 34, Coconut Creek Monarch 15
Lake Mary 30, Miami Norland 29
Miami Carol City 35, Hialeah 25
Miami Coral Reef 54, South Miami 0
Miami Dr. Krop 56, Miami St. Brendan 0
Miami Edison 46, Hialeah American 0
Miami Lakes Goleman 62, Key West 21
Miami LaSalle Immaculata 1, Miami High 0 (Forfeit)
Miami Ransom Everglades 21, Coconut Creek North Broward Prep 0
Miramar Everglades 20, Fort Lauderdale Northeast 19
North Miami 46, Miami Jackson 6
Orange Lutheran, California 17, Miami Northwestern 13
Peachtree Ridge, Georgia 31, Sunrise Piper 6
Pembroke Pines Charter 51, Oakland Park Northeast 0
Plantation 18, Davie Western 0
Plantation American Heritage 31, Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep 28
Pompano Beach 48, Marathon 33
Santa Ana Mater Dei 26, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas 23
Sarasota Cardinal Mooney 41, Miami True North Classical Academy 14
Somerset Silver Palms 19, Miami Braddock 0
Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy 42, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons 35
Tampa Carrollwood Day 28, North Miami Beach 20
Tavernier Coral Shores 20, Somerset South Homestead 12
Westland Hialeah 35, Hialeah-Miami Lakes 0
Weston Cypress Bay 40, Parkland Douglas 7
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD TRANSFERS? WE HAVE THEM FOR YOU. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-off-to-a-huge-start-in-miami-dade-broward
For the past 55 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 (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Two days of outstanding football are now in the books as the 2025 Broward County National Football Showcase is headed to the third and final day with two ESPN telecasts on the way.
For the fourth year, this national event welcomed some of the best football in the country and has quickly become a marquee event that everyone across the nation talks about and watches.
As the year is now under way, Saturday is indeed the spotlight day with four nationally rated programs in action:
Santa Ana Mater Dei, California (0-0) vs. Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas (0-0), 3:30
MATER DEI MONARCHS
HEAD COACH: Raul Lara
TRINITY LEAGUE
2024 RECORD: 13-0 (National Champions)
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 23 @ St. Thomas Aquinas (FL)
Aug. 29 Torrance Bishop Montgomery, California
Sept. 5 Kahuku, Hawaii
Sept. 12 Corona Centennial, California
Sept. 19 @ Las Vegas Bishop Gorman, Nevada
Oct. 3 @ Orange Lutheran, California
Oct. 10 Rancho Santa Margarita, California
Oct. 18 Anaheim Servite, California
Oct. 24 San Juan Capistrano JSerra Catholic, California
Oct. 31 @ Bellflower St. John Bosco, California
ABOUT THE MONARCHS: Mater Dei enters the season as the undefeated defending National Champion that includes a 19-game winning streak. Ryan Hopkins (Wisconsin commit), a 6’3, 195-pound dual-threat quarterback, transferred to the Monarchs from JSerra Catholic. Hopkins will have plenty of weapons on offense like Chris Henry Jr. (Ohio State commit), Kayden Dixon-Wyatt (Ohio State commit), Mark Bowman (USC commit), and Gavin Honore (Georgia commit). The defense, led Tomuhini Topui (USC commit), Shaun Scott (USC commit), and C.J. Lavender, Jr. (Washington commit).
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS RAIDERS
HEAD COACH: Roger Harriott
DISTRICT: 15-5A
2024 RECORD: 12-3 (5A State Champions)
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 23 Santa Ana Mater Dei (CA)
Aug. 29 Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson
Sept. 5 @ Miami Christopher Columbus
Sept. 12 Davie Western
Sept. 19 @ Hollywood McArthur
Oct. 3 Hollywood Hills
Oct. 8 @ NFL Academy, London
Oct. 17 @ Coconut Creek Monarch
Oct. 24 @ Plantation American Heritage
Oct. 31 Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna
ABOUT THE RAIDERS: St. Thomas Aquinas enters the season as a six-time defending state champ and 16 champion ships collectively. Aquinas is 15-4 all-time against out-of-state opponents, including a 48-37 victory over St. Joe’s Prep in the first 2022 National Showcase. Their defense is loaded, especially in the secondary led by Justice Fitzpatrick (Georgia commit), Zayden Gamble, Jaden Carey, Jermiyah Douglas, and Samari Howard.
Philadelphia St. Frances Academy, Pennsylvania (0-0) vs. Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna (0-0), 8
ST. FRANCES ACADEMY PANTHERS
HEAD COACH: Messay Hailemariam
DISTRICT: Independent
2024 RECORD: 8-3
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 23 @ Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna
Sept. 5 @ Bellflower St. John Bosco, California
Sept. 13 @ Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep, Pennsylvania
Sept. 19 Waldorf Hewlett Sports Academy, Maryland
Oct. 3 Orlando The First Academy, Florida
Oct. 10 Oakdale St. Thomas More, Connecticut
Oct. 17 Princeton Hun, New Jersey
Nov. 1 Springfield The St. James Performance Academy
Nov. 7 @ Bradenton IMG Academy, Florida
ABOUT THE PANTHERS: St. Frances Academy ranks No. 5 in the country in MaxPreps Top 25 Preseason Poll. Five-star DE Zion Elee (Maryland commit), DB Jireh Edwards (Alabama Commit), uncommitted four-star addition LB D.Q. Forkpa will lead an aggressive Panthers defense against a very potent Lion offense. Elee and Edwards are among 18 players on the roster rated as three-star recruits or higher. The Panthers finished the 2024 season with six consecutive victories.
CHAMINADE-MADONNA LIONS
HEAD COACH: Dameon Jones
DISTRICT: 14-1A
2024 RECORD: 13-2 (State Champions)
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 24 St. Francis (MD)
Aug. 29 @ Hollywood McArthur
Sept. 5 @ Plantation American Heritage
Sept. 12 @ Miami Edison
Sept. 26 Davie Western
Oct. 3 Coconut Creek Monarch
Oct. 10 Pompano Beach Blanche Ely
Oct. 17 @ Hollywood Avant Garde
Oct. 24 @ Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons
Oct. 31 @ Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas
ABOUT THE LIONS: Chaminade-Madonna has won seven state championships over the past nine seasons from 2016-24. The 2024 season started with two consecutive losses before winning 13 consecutive games and the Class 1A state title. Senior running back Derrick Cooper (Texas commit) led the Lions with 905 yards on 124 carries and 13 touchdowns last season. Senior wide receiver Denairius Gray (Kentucky commit) had 131 receptions for 1845 yards and 37 touchdowns in four seasons. Wide receiver Jasen Lopez (Florida State commit) had 87 receptions for 1300 yards and 14 TDs last season.
FRIDAY RESULTS
Draper Corner Canyon, Utah 38, Pembroke Pines West Broward 13
Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian 42, Miami Belen Jesuit 11
Fort Lauderdale Dillard 39, Orlando Dr. Phillips 0
Fort Lauderdale NSU University School 30, Lakeland Christian 27
Fort Pierce Central 48, Davie Nova 13
Hollywood Hills 14, Coral Springs Taravella 3
Hollywood South Broward 21, Deerfield Beach 14
Homestead South Dade 43, Miami Booker T. Washington 20
Lake Mary 30, Miami Norland 29
Miami Lakes Goleman 62, Key West 21
Miami LaSalle Immaculata 1, Miami High 0 (Forfeit)
North Miami 46, Miami Jackson 6
Plantation 18, Davie Western 0
Plantation American Heritage 31, Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep 28
Pompano Beach 48, Marathon 33
Sarasota Cardinal Mooney 41, Miami True North Classical Academy 14
Tampa Carrollwood Day 28, North Miami Beach 20
SATURDAY GAMES
Baltimore St. Frances Academy vs. Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna, 8
Miami Southridge vs. Miami Christopher Columbus, 10 a.m.
Orange Lutheran, California vs. Miami Northwestern, 7
Santa Ana Mater Dei vs. Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas, 3:30
THURSDAY RESULTS
Boca Raton Christian 35, Deerfield Beach Somerset Key 17
Coral Springs Charter 20, Fort Lauderdale Pine Crest 13 (OT)
Delray American Heritage 54, North Lauderdale Somerset Prep 0
Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy, Port St. Lucie Tradition Prep 6
Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy 34, Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy 12
Miami Carol City 35, Hialeah 25
Jacksonville Bolles 34, Coconut Creek Monarch 15
Miami Coral Reef 54, South Miami 0
Miami Edison 46, Hialeah American 0
Miramar Everglades 20, Fort Lauderdale Northeast 19
Peachtree Ridge, Georgia 31, Sunrise Piper 6
Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy 42, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons 35
Tavernier Coral Shores 20, Somerset South Homestead 12
Westland Hialeah 35, Hialeah-Miami Lakes 0
Weston Cypress Bay 40, Parkland Douglas 7
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD TRANSFERS? WE HAVE THEM FOR YOU. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-off-to-a-huge-start-in-miami-dade-broward
For the past 55 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 (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
As the 2025 football season continues to unfold in south Florida, the Fourth Annual Broward County National Showcase will continue as well.
Two locations (Fort Lauderdale Dillard and Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas) and three games will add to this impressive event with out of area programs competing with some quality local programs who have earned their way into this year’s event.
AT FORT LAUDERDALE DILLARD
Pembroke Pines West Broward (0-0) vs. Draper Corner Canyon, Utah (1-0), 4
WEST BROWARD BOBCATS
HEAD COACH: Brian McCartney
DISTRICT: 15-6A
2024 RECORD: 9-4
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 22 Corner Canyon, Utah
Aug. 29 @ Camden County, Georgia
Sept. 5 Plantation
Sept. 11 Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons
Sept. 19 @ Pembroke Pines Flanagan
Sept. 26 Miramar Everglades
Oct. 10 Miami Beach
Oct. 17 Miramar
Oct. 23 Miami Dr. Krop
Oct. 31 @ Davie Western
ABOUT THE BOBCATS: West Broward’s junior running back Amos Bradford (Toledo commit) led the Bobcats running game behind standout lineman Alejandro Schmitt (Florida Atlantic commit) with 1227 yards on 127 carries and five touchdowns. West Broward advanced to the Class 6A Regional Finals before losing to Southridge. This is the team’s first appearance in the National Showcase. Coach Brian McCartney has led the Bobcats to back-to-back District Championships. Bryan Granger (OL) and Shmar Akande (DB) are also players to watch.
CORNER CANYON CHARGERS
HEAD COACH: Eric Kjar
REGION: 3-6A
2024 RECORD: 13-1
2025 SCHEDULE
Bingham, W 45-0
Aug. 22 @ West Broward (FL)
Aug. 29 @ Plain City Fremont, Utah
Sept. 5 Peoria Liberty, Arizona
Sept. 12 Salt Lake City Brighton, Utah
Sept. 19 @ Highland Lone Peak, Utah
Sepr. 26 Lehi Skyridge, Utah
Oct. 3 Eagle Mountain Cedar Valley, Utah
Oct. 9 American Fork, Utah
Oct. 15 Lehi Utah
ABOUT THE CHARGERS: Corner Canyon is the two-time defending Class 6A state champion in Utah and has won six state titles over the last eight years. Senior running back Weston Briggs returns as the team’s leading rusher with 1324 yards on 177 carries and 13 touchdowns. Esun Tafa (USC commit), 6-4, 325-pound offensive lineman opens the lanes for the Charger offense. Senior quarterback Helaman Casuga (Texas A&M commit) passed for 1617 total yards and 18 touchdowns in just six games last season. They opened the season with a 45-0 win against Bingham, Utah.
Orlando Dr. Phillips (0-0) at Fort Lauderdale Dillard (0-0), 8 p.m.
DR. PHILLIPS PANTHERS
HEAD COACH: Rodney Wells
DISTRICT: 9-7A
2024 RECORD: 12-2
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 29 Dillard
Aug. 29 Orlando University
Sept. 5 Apopka
Sept. 12 @ Ocoee
Sept. 19 @ Apopka Wekiva
Sept. 26 Orlando Olympia
Oct. 10 @ Clermont East Ridge
Oct. 17 @ Orlando Edgewater
Oct. 24 Celebration
Oct. 30 @ Winter Garden West Orange
ABOUT THE PANTHERS: Dr. Phillips was a senior heavy team in 2024. The Panthers first appearance in a FHSAA state championship game was against in the 8A title game against Miami Southridge in 2016. Their only state title came in 2018 when they defeated Delray Atlantic. Dr. Phillips is 2-0 against Broward teams dated back to 2004. As a team, the offense passed for 2181 yards and rushed for 1501 yards. They averaged 31.4 points per game last season. R.J. Stamm (OL) and Maurice Jones (LB) are top players.
DILLARD PANTHERS
HEAD COACH: Demetris Mincey Sr.
DISTRICT: 14-4A
2024 RECORD: 9-3
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 22 Orlando Dr. Phillips
Aug. 29 Fort Lauderdale Stranahan
Sept. 5 Fort Lauderdale Northeast
Sept. 13 @ Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson
Sept. 19 Miramar
Sept. 26 Riviera Beach Suncoast
Oct. 4 @ Pompano Beach Blanche Ely
Oct. 10 @ Lake Worth Joaquin Garcia
Oct. 24 Boynton Beach
Oct. 31 @ Deerfield Beach
ABOUT THE PANTHERS: Dillard is the first and only public school in Broward County to win multiple state championships (1986, 89). Both titles came under coaching great Otis Gray. Senior outside linebacker Demitris Mincey, Jr. (FIU commit) returns after recording 64 tackles --16 for a loss and two interceptions last year. The offense will be led by four-star Anthony Jennings who hold several P4 offers.
AT FORT LAUDERDALE ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
Plantation American Heritage (0-0) vs. Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep (0-0), 6
AMERICAN HERITAGE PATRIOTS
HEAD COACH: Mike Smith
DISTRICT: 15-4A
2024 RECORD: 12-2 (State Champions)
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 22 Philadelphia St. Joseph’s Prep (PA)
Sept. 5 Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna
Sept. 12 @ New Orleans Edna Karr, Louisiana
Sept. 19 Miami Central
Sept. 26 @ Plantation
Oct. 3 @ Pembroke Pines Flanagan
Oct. 10 Miami Norland
Oct. 17 @ Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy
Oct. 25 @ Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas
ABOUT THE PATRIOTS: American Heritage, five-star senior QB Dia Bell (Texas commit) led Heritage to a state championship last year throwing for 4879 career yards and 51 TDs. Senior wide receiver Brandon Bennett (FSU commit) enters his senior season with 47 receptions for 1058 yards and 13 TDs. The Patriots enter the 2025 season as the defending FHSAA Class 4A state champion and an 11-game winning streak. They are ranked No. 7 in the USA Today preseason poll. Jaffar Jean-Noel, WR, Aldarius Johnson, Jr., DB, Kymani Morales, LB, Dylan Bennett, LB, Jamar Denson, WR, Derrick Nichols, CB, and Rodarion Tellez, Edge are players to watch.
ST. JOSEPH’S PREP HAWKS
HEAD COACH: Tim Roken
DISTRICT: Philadelphia Catholic
2024 RECORD: 11-2
2025 SCHEDULE
Aug. 22 @ Plantation American Heritage
Aug. 30 @ Hyatsville DeMatha, Maryland
Sept. 13 Baltimore St. Francis Academy, Maryland
Sept. 20 Olney Our Lady of Good Counsel, Maryland
Sept. 26 @ Philadelphia Father Judge
Oct. 4 Wyndmoor LaSalle College, Pennsylvania
Oct. 10 Philadelphia Roman Catholic
Oct. 18 Drexel Hill Monsignor Bonner, Pennsylvania
Oct. 26 Springfield Cardinal O’Hara, Pennsylvania
ABOUT THE HAWKS: St. Joseph Prep enters their 2025 campaign as the PIAA defending state champion. They defeated Central Catholic (Pittsburgh) home of NFL great Dan Marino, 35-6. Quarterback Charlie Foulke has nine offers that include Georgia, Pittsburgh, Virginia Tech and Miami. Team has won 164 games with 24 losses since the 2011 season. Twelve players from St. Joe’s have played in the NFL including Rich Gannon and Marvin Harrison, Jr., to name a few.
OTHER GREAT GAMES ON THIS FRIDAY
In addition to the Broward Showcase games, south Florida is loaded with some impressive games on this Friday. Check these contests out:
Coconut Creek at Miramar, 7
Coconut Creek North Broward Prep at Miami Ransom Everglades, 7
Cooper City vs. Coral Springs Coral Glades (CS Sportsplex), 7
Coral Gables at Miami Ferguson, 3:30
Coral Springs Taravella at Hollywood Hills, 4
Deerfield Beach at Hollywood South Broward, 7
Doral Academy at Miami Gulliver Prep, 4
Doral Ronald Reagan at Miami Sunset, 3:30
Fort Lauderdale NSU University School at Lakeland Christian, 7
Hialeah ABF Academy at BridgePrep Village Green, 7
Homestead South Dade at Miami Booker T. Washington (Traz), 7:30
Marathon at Pompano Beach, 7
Miami Belen Jesuit at Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian, 7
Miami Dr. Krop at Miami St. Brendan, 7
Miami Florida Christian at Miami Archbishop Carroll, 3:30
Miami High at Miami Immaculata La Salle, 7
Miami Lakes Goleman at Key West, 7:30
Miami Norland at Lake Mary, 7
Miami Palmetto vs. Homestead (Harris), 7:30
Miami SmartEn Academy at Miami Palmer Trinity, 4
Miami Springs vs. Miami Beach (Memorial), 7
Miami True North Classical Academy at Sarasota Cardinal Mooney, 7
Miami Varela at Hialeah Gardens, 3:30
Miami Westminster Christian at Coral Springs, 7
North Miami vs. Miami Jackson (Milander), 7:30
North Miami Beach at Tampa Carrollwood Day, 7
Pembroke Pines Charter at Oakland Park Northeast, 6:30
Plantation at Davie Western, 7
Pompano Beach Blanche Ely at Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson, 7
Riviera Beach Inlet Grove vs. Miami Killian (Burley), 7
Somerset Silver Palms at Miami Braddock, 3:30
Southwest Miami vs. Miami Coral Park (Tropical), 7:30
Wellington Palm Beach Central at Davie Nova, 7
Saturday August 23
HS Football Showcase: Mater Dei at St. Thomas Aquinas, 3:30
HS Football Showcase at St. Thomas Aquinas: St. Frances Academy vs. Chaminade, 8
Miami Southridge at Miami Christopher Columbus, 10 a.m.
Orange (Ca.) Lutheran vs. Miami Northwestern (Traz), 7 p.m.
THURSDAY RESULTS
Boca Raton Christian 35, Deerfield Beach Somerset Key 17
Coral Springs Charter 20, Fort Lauderdale Pine Crest 13 (OT)
Delray American Heritage 54, North Lauderdale Somerset Prep 0
Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy, Port St. Lucie Tradition Prep 6
Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy 34, Pembroke Pines Somerset Academy 12
Miami Carol City 35, Hialeah 25
Jacksonville Bolles 34, Coconut Creek Monarch 15
Miami Coral Reef 54, South Miami 0
Miami Edison 46, Hialeah American 0
Miramar Everglades 20, Fort Lauderdale Northeast 19
Peachtree Ridge, Georgia 31, Sunrise Piper 6
Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy 42, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons 35
Tavernier Coral Shores 20, Somerset South Homestead 12
Westland Hialeah 35, Hialeah-Miami Lakes 0
Weston Cypress Bay 40, Parkland Douglas 7
DAVID BROUSSEAU OF THE BROWARD COUNTY ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION CONTRIBUTED TO THIS BLOG!
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
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For the past 55 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 (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..