The eye of the Florida high school football world will be directly on south Florida this week.
With national implications and impressive matchups, DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale will be the place to be for five games that many will be watching.
This week is a time where several south Florida schools want to let those in California and in other places that they continue to severely underestimate the teams in this region of the state – and with two schools – along with 1M Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna, who will play against Las Vegas Bishop Gorman in the Geico Bowl on Friday – having a chance to claim the national title – the focus will be right here.
The weekend gets started on Thursday night at 7:00 when the first ever Miami-Dade and Broward schools have a chance to play for a state title against each other, showing how much talent the two counties have.
The 3M state crown will either by taken home by unbeaten and national power Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas (13-0) or 11-2 Homestead, which will be making its first ever state championship appearance.
Coach Roger Harriott and Coach Philip Simpson head into the game with plenty of optimism and are looking to give the football fans of the #305 and #954 something to cheer about.
MUCH-AWAITED MATCHUP
On Friday evening, it’s the game that has been on everyone’s mind since the changes were made in the classifications throughout the Sunshine State.
The nation’s No. 1 team Miami Central (13-0) will take on 13-1 Plantation American Heritage at 7:00 in the 2M state championship.
First year head coach Mike Smith (American Heritage) and Jube Joseph (Central) are meeting in a #305 vs. #954 thriller that will not only have the football fans of south Florida watching, but this will receive national attention as two of the Florida’s elite teams will meet.
Both of these schools are loaded with big time talent and have been rolling through the season in anticipation of this gigantic clash.
On Saturday night another of the games that everyone has been looking forward to when a rematch of three years ago will take place at 7:00.
Miami Christopher Columbus (13-1), which won a miracle game against Apopka (10-4) in Daytona Beach three years ago, will meet in a game that promises to be interesting.
Head Coach Dave Dunn has been amazing since returning to guide the Explorers three seasons ago, and Jeff Rolson has kept the Blue Darters in the spotlight, reaching the finals three of the past four years.
TWO AFTERNOON GAMES WILL ALSO TAKE CENTER STAGE
In addition to the marquee Metro games that will certainly bring the fans in to watch, there are two Suburban contests that will be thrilling as well.
Class 3-Suburban
STATE FINAL
No. 1 Lake Wales (14-0) vs. No. 4 Daytona Beach Mainland (10-3), Friday, Dec. 16, 1 p.m. – DRV PNK Stadium, Fort Lauderdale. The Highlanders have maintained that they are as good as any team in the state and will have the chance to prove it against a team that also benefits from being a Suburb team, avoiding teams that have stood in their way for years.
Class 4-Suburban
STATE FINAL
No. 1 Venice (9-3) vs. No. 1 Lakeland (13-0), Saturday, Dec. 17, 1 p.m. – DRV PNK Stadium, Fort Lauderdale. Last year’s 8A state champion will face off against an unbeaten state power who returns to the state title game for the first time in several years.
This is a game that came about because neither school had to play Metro programs.
For the past 52 years, we have spent plenty of 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..
If you have followed us long enough, you already know that our objective is to promote EVERY football prospect in Miami-Dade and Broward County.
While the major prospects will always sell themselves, it’s those football players who love the game and are looking for exposure that we are after.
Over the next few months, we will spotlight schools throughout the two counties with Class of 2023 athletes who are still looking for college attention.
Today we start off with district champion Miami Dr. Krop. Head Coach Tommy Caporale and his team won a playoff game before losing in the second round to state finalist Homestead.
#1 Elijah Brown, LB, 6-0, 205.
This standout prospect is a physical and explosive hitter as well as being a phenomenal leader and team captain. Outstanding work ethic and savage in the weight room. 131 total tackles 33 tackles for loss, 15 Sacks, 3 interceptions, 5 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 10 pass breakups.
TAPE: https://share.qwikcut.com/6334dd07b5f26aa0398e7067
#11 Guyteau Salvador, DE, 6-5, 227.
Great length and gets off the ball quickly, very high ceiling. Going to end up as a 265-pound DE with an 85-inch wingspan, who will be a big time Edge Rusher. 70 total tackles, 28 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks. 5 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries.
TAPE: https://share.qwikcut.com/635a8502f31d3f1fbcb583aa
#2 Julius Pascal, RB/FS, 5-11, 185.
Explosive player who gains many yards after contact, elusive and can make people miss in open space. A very physical and instinctive player who is special. 1,553 yards rushing, 15TD’s, 1,900+ total yards on offense. Defensively, 3 int6erceptions, which featured an 85-yard return for a score. 24 tackles, 12 pass breakups.
TAPE: https://share.qwikcut.com/633a3377b60dd05611ae1262
#70 Nicolas Garcia, OG, 6-5, 315.
Great size, 500+ squat, 600+ deadlift, 315-pound bench, full qualifier, great academics, physical with a super attitude and size.
TAPE: https://share.qwikcut.com/6372d74336b529b93584f69e
#14 Kiesean Brown, SS/OLB, 6-1, 200.
Strong physical player, with great size and a frame for the next level. Can play strong safety or outside linebacker at the next level. 58 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 10 pass breakups, 3 interceptions, which included one for a score.
TAPE: https://share.qwikcut.com/https://share.qwikcut.com/6370fecf6b670a2e11681c8b63349bdd6e8814d96e888401
#5 O’Neal Webb SS/OLB, 5-11, 185.
3-year varsity starter who is an explosive athlete that is also a standout in Track & field. He had 55 total tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, returning one for a game winner.
TAPE: https://share.qwikcut.com/6370fecf6b670a2e11681c8b
Jamari Cooley, OC/OG, 6-2, 270.
This returner starter is an outstanding center as well as a long snapper. Very physical run blocker with a mean streak that plays through the whistle. Strong leader.
TAPE: https://share.qwikcut.com/63826439dd954e19b2acbe73
Coaches, if you are interested in checking out any of these prospects, contact Coach Caporale: Cell - 201-280-7560. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
For the past 52 years, we have spent plenty of 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..
Through The years, the Broward County Athletic Association’s North-South All-Star Game has always been a close contest between some of the best football prospects in the county.
On Thursday night – before a packed house at Nova High School – the two teams once again battled to the end as the South prevailed 14-7.
With an impressive band, quality cheerleaders and fans pouring into Davie, this game did not disappoint, and college coaches and media outlets had an opportunity to see a well-played and competitive game as West Broward Head Coach Brian McCartney (South) and Coral Glades Head Coach Cam Thomas (North) made the practice days pay off.
With Cypress Bay quarterback Ryder Lewin winning the MVP of the game, Stranahan RB Sincere Rodriguez winning Offensive MVP and defensive lineman Justin Tedim winning the MVP for the South defense, the North also had some outstanding performers as well – with Blanche Ely QB Nah’coy Daniels and Fort Lauderdale DE Jaylin Jackson taking home MVP awards.
“This was one of the best all around games we have had,” said BCAA Director of Athletics & Student Activities Shawn Cerra. “Great game, outstanding job by our all-star band and cheerleaders and I am thoroughly impressed with the crowd that came out.”
Prospects searching for college attention had the opportunity to impress and get extra game film.
The winning South team had prospects such as Cypress Bay, who had Lewin and kicker Lucas Bisazza, who participated for both teams, TE Orlando Lima, WR Ormoni Marshall and OL Matt Prigmore; Flanagan WR Tony Anthony; McArthur OL Miguel Baez; Miramar RB Nathaniel Henry and DB Tre Rigby; Nova TE Nick Evans and OL Sam Saint-Fort; South Broward OL Danny Maitien Jr.; Stranahan running back Sincere Rodriguez; West Broward receiver Brandon Armenteros; and Tedim and offensive lineman Roger Reyes from Western.
The North also had plenty of standouts – with MVP Daniels from Blanche Ely and his teammate WR Marcus Williams; Boyd Anderson RB Jaylon Thomas; Cardinal Gibbons punter Christian Silverstein, who played on both sides; Coconut Creek OL Juan Carlos Arocho and Kevone Keana; Coral Glades DE Carlton Boggs Jr.; versatile Coral Springs standout Tyrique Gordon; Deerfield Beach DB Patrick Darelus; Dillard boasted OL Christopher Alexandre and Zxamyir Pellissier, and DB David Law-Mortimer, DB. In addition to Jackson, Fort Lauderdale had WR Patrick Boyd; Monarch standout WR Walter Parrish; Piper DE Joseph Aquino; Pompano Beach WR Lorezo Beggs; Parkland Douglas RB Clayton Cannon Jr. and LB Gabriel Lenamon,
COACHING PLAYED A HUGE PART IN THE GAME
In addition to McCartney, the South squad had fellow West Broward assistants De’Ronzy Lawrence, Sam Smith, Nick Cozzati and Kadeem Goulbourne. South Broward head coach Charles McCrea Jr. and his assistant Matt Burke; South Plantation head coach Colby Erskin and his assistant Ron Jackson, and Nova head coach Kevin Huntley and his assistant Richard Miller Jr.
The North had Thomas and his Coral Glades assistant coaches Phillip Scott, Curtis Shelton and Andres Torres. There were also Coral Springs Charter and Fort Lauderdale head coach Richard Dunbar and his assistants David Martin Sr. and McKinson Souverain.
For the past 52 years, we have spent plenty of 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..
For the fifth time in six years, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna has taken home a state football title.
The Lions scored early and often and came away with a convincing 48-14 decision over Clearwater Central Catholic at Gene Cox Stadium in Tallahassee on Thursday evening.
Finishing the season 13-0, head coach Dameon Jones and his team, appearing in their seventh consecutive state championship made their statement as the best team in the nation as they outscored their opponents, 658-140, with some quality wins along the way.
This team, which not only completed an unbeaten season, but ran its record to 80-13 in the seven year period.
Ranked behind Miami Central, this team truly feels that they can lineup against anyone. The unbeaten Rockets play next Friday night in a Miami-Dade vs. Broward game against once beaten Plantation American Heritage at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale in the 2M final.
THE LIONS ROARED ALL NIGHT
The victory showed many across the country that this team has a way of putting games away early as they scored as they piled up 32 first downs and 598 total yards.
The Lions took the 7-0 lead with 10:54 left in the opening quarter when quarterback Cedrick Bailey found fellow junior Joshisa Trader from four yards out.
When junior running back Davion Gause scored from 16 yards out, Chaminade-Madonna led 14-0 with 4:15 left in the opening quarter.
Bailey came right back at the start of the second quarter when nationally rated receiver Jeremiah Smith an amazing catch with 10:02 remaining in the first half. Andrew Abu-Akel booted his third extra point of the half and a 21-0 lead.
With 2:29 left in the first half, the Lions went up 28-0 on a 23-yard strike from Bailey to Smith and took that lead into halftime.
The Marauders finally got on the board in the second half when Lenwood Sapp scored from the 1 with 8:05 remaining and the Lions still holding on to a 28-7 advantage.
Chaminade-Madonna came right back with 6:25 left in the third quarter and a 35-7 lead on Gause’s rushing score of the game – from 10 yards out.
When the Lions scored with just nine seconds left in the third quarter, they led 42-7 as Duane Thomas made good from 11 yards out from the “Wildcat” formation.
Clearwater Central Catholic cut the lead to 42-14 when Sapp scored again – from 5 yards out with 2:30 remaining in the game.
The Lions closed out the scoring when Bryant Junius took it in from the 1 and a 48-14 final.
Bailey finished 16 of 24 for 255 yards and 3 touchdowns. Smith had six receptions for 104 yards and 2 scores. Senior Edwin Joseph caught 4 balls for 65 yards. Thomas caught 3 balls for 55 yards. Trader had 4 catches for 49 yards and a score.
Gause was the leading rusher with 189 yards and 3 touchdowns.
On defense, Jeno Junius had 19 total tackles. Zaquan Patterson finished with 10 tackles. Denzel Johnson had 10 tackles and a sack. D’Angelo Ponds and Curtis Janvier each had six tackles. Zach Crothers finished with five tackles and a sack.
LIONS (13-0)
St. John’s Washington DC, W 35-28
FORT LAUDERDALE DILLARD, W 49-28
Miami Northwestern, W 42-14
PLANTATION AMERICAN HERITAGE, 42-34
Miami Gulliver Prep, W 28-0
DEERFIELD BEACH SOMERSET KEY, W 90-0
HOLLYWOOD AVANT GARDE ACADEMY, W 63-0
BOCA RATON ST. JOHN PAUL II, W 63-0
PORT ST. LUCIE TREASURE COAST, W 45-16
HOLLYWOOD AVANT GARDE ACADEMY, W 48-0
WEST PALM BEACH CARDINAL NEWMAN, W 49-16
MIAMI TRUE NORTH CLASSICAL ACADEMY, W 56-0
Clearwater Central Catholic, W 48-14 (1M State Title)
PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDY VILLAMARZO/SBLIVE
For the past 52 years, we have spent plenty of 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..
When Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna High’s football team kicks things off tonight (7:00) against Clearwater Central Catholic at Gene Cox Stadium in Tallahassee, the unbeaten Lions will be a part of history.
Only Belle Glade Glades Day have done what head coach Dameon Jones and his team will do tonight. The 1M title appearance marks the seventh consecutive time this program has reached the state finals. Seven!
While most teams look to make it to one of even two state title games to complete their careers, this school has been the most impressive dynasty in the past decade, winning four of the past five titles.
That seven-year stretch, including this year’s 12-0 mark features 2021 (12-1), 2020 (8-2), 2019 (12-2), 2018 (12-2), 2017 (11-2) and 2016 (10-4) adds up to an amazing 79-13 record, which is easily among the best in the state during that period.
This is certainly a team that has relied on its senior class for leadership, but all classes for talent and depth. Among those seniors who have an impact includes DaAndre Duffus (OL, 6-5, 314), Luke Evans (CB, 6-2, 170), Elvin Harris (OL, 6-6, 300), Nat Moore Trophy finalist Edwin Joseph (WR/DB, 6-1, 185), Jeno Junius (S, 5-11, 185), William Larkins (OL, 6-5, 305), Wayne Peart (DT, 6-4, 270), D’Angelo Ponds (DB, 5-10, 155) and receiver Duane Thomas Jr. (5-10, 175).
In addition, there are Jaden Alvaranga (DB, 5-10, 175), Jeremiah Avrilien (RB, 5-8, 170), Matthew Cook (OT, 6-7, 270), Jermaine Fleming (FS, 6-2, 182), Josh Jones (DB, 5-9, 185), Giovani Marks (OT, 5-11, 255), Xavier Richardson (LS/DT, 5-10, 255), Kwame Smith (CB, 5-8, 155) and defensive back Zachary Tanelus (6-1, 160) who have proven to be extremely valuable.
THIS TRAIN IS FAR FROM DONE
As gifted as the senior class is, the underclassmen are among the best in the country – starting with Class of 2024 standouts such as Andrew Abu-Akel (PK, 5-10, 170), Cedrick Bailey (QB, 6-6, 195), Jackson Campbell (OC, 6-1, 270), standout running back Davion Gause (5-11, 203), Curtis Janvier (CB, 6-1, 175), amazing linebacker Denzel Johnson (6-0, 205), nationally rated safety Zaquan Patterson (6-1, 185), Kaleb Stewart (OLB, 6-1, 205), Bryce Stringer (DE, 6-2, 205), and two of the country’s elite receivers in Jeremiah Smith (6-3, 195) and Joshisa Trader (6-1, 170).
The junior class also includes David Brankovic (LB, 5-11, 185), Zach Crothers (DE, 6-4, 235), Sean Patrick Dulcio (DB, 5-11, 180), Kendarius Frazier (DE, 6-1, 240), Johnoy Johnston (WR, 6-2, 188), Brendan Leal (LB, 5-11, 210), Tyson Waters (WR, 5-8, 150), Rashaun Watson (DT, 6-2, 250), Carl Wilcox (DE, 6-3, 185) and offensive tackle John Zeikowitz (6-4, 290)
The future is indeed bright as Class of 2025 sophomores Tywan Cox (DB, 5-10, 165), Chris Ewald (CB, 6-1, 165), Adonis Ferguson (CB, 5-11, 160), Logan Kelly (DE, 5-11, 180), Donta Simpson Jr. (DT, 6-3, 280), Darius Smith (DB, 5-10, 170), Jaiden Toussaint (RB, 5-10, 180) and receiver Kyle Washington (5-10, 165) have already shown.
Class of 2026 freshmen Damani Atkinson (DT, 6-1, 300), Mekhi Bradley (OL, 6-2, 285), Jamar Denson (WR, 5-9, 165), Bryant Junius (RB, 6-0, 195), Rodarion Tellez (LB, 6-1, 200), Javarius Robinson (QB, 5-11, 180) and Kerby Vital (OL, 6-1, 255) represent the next wave of talent the Lions have.
LIONS (12-0)
St. John’s Washington DC, W 35-28
FORT LAUDERDALE DILLARD, W 49-28
Miami Northwestern, W 42-14
PLANTATION AMERICAN HERITAGE, 42-34
Miami Gulliver Prep, W 28-0
DEERFIELD BEACH SOMERSET KEY, W 90-0
HOLLYWOOD AVANT GARDE ACADEMY, W 63-0
BOCA RATON ST. JOHN PAUL II, W 63-0
PORT ST. LUCIE TREASURE COAST, W 45-16
HOLLYWOOD AVANT GARDE ACADEMY, W 48-0
WEST PALM BEACH CARDINAL NEWMAN, W 49-16
MIAMI TRUE NORTH CLASSICAL ACADEMY, W 56-0
CLEARWATER CENTRAL CATHOLIC MARAUDERS (12-1)
TAMPA BERKELEY PREP, W 24-7
Ocala Trinity Catholic, L 35-29
Tampa Catholic, W 28-14
ST. PETERSBURG CATHOLIC, W 20-0
SEBRING, W 16-10
Tampa Jesuit, W 23-21
TAMPA CAMBRIDGE CHRISTIAN, W 40-7
Tampa Carrollwood Day, W 30-6
Seffner Christian, W 63-6
BRADENTON IMG WHITE, W 63-35
LARGO INDIAN ROCKS CHRISTIAN, W 63-12
TAMPA CARROLLWOOD DAY, W 21-11
JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN, W 34-29
You Can Contact Larry Blustein with prospect or team information at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..