Moments after head coach Mike Smith and his Plantation American Heritage Patriots lost to Miami Central in the 2M state finals, the realization that 15 starting seniors were gone.
Fifteen prospects who lifted this team over the past four years were playing for the last time, a and while it was tough to face, this program was also returning nine key starters from the 13-2 team.
With Central and other programs in 2M starting to reload for the 2023 season, the Patriots, despite losing so many impressive and quality performers may have been ahead of several teams with the players they had coming back.
Like any other team in the state – especially in south Florida – the off-season usually signals players coming and going, and this program is certainly no exception.
If they are to compete like this past season, new faces will blend in with the already highly talented roster they have.
With key returning rising seniors like Bowen Drewes (LB, 6-2, 205), Leviev Kinlock (DE/OLB, 6-2, 230), Alon Kochav (P/K, 6-0, 180), Timothy Burroughs-Love (OG/DT, 6-2, 280), Sherrod Pearce (CB, 5-9, 165), Cayden Trent (G/T, 6-3, 300) and offensive tackle Jimmy Williams III (6-5, 280), a foundation has been set.
The rising junior class is also something to be very excited about – with Dayen Marouf Araibi (OT, 6-3, 265), Ben Diaz (OC, 6-0, 270), Mekhi Hicks (CB, 5-10, 165), Byron Louis (RB, 5-11, 195) and cornerback Jordan Rich (5-9, 160) already proving what they can bring to the table.
The class also boasts Gabriel Cline (WR, 6-2, 185), Peter Grady (OG, 6-1, 265), Freddie King (DT, 5-11, 265), Fletcher Lavoie (DE, 6-2, 250), Jordan Louis (S, 5-9, 160), Sean Murphy (RB, 5-9, 175), Judah Stubbs (WR, 5-11, 170), Gregory Thomas (WR/CB, 6-3, 190) and offensive lineman Evan Wallace (6-1, 260) as well.
WAIT – THERE’S MORE
The Patriots also set the future with rising sophomores Dia Bell (QB, 6-0, 170), Elijah Balkman (LB, 5-10, 165), Brandon Bennett (WR, 6-0, 170), Christien Moreau (DL, 6-0, 270), Jeffar Jean-Noel (WR, 5-10, 170) and All-American receiver Malachi Toney (5-10, 165). Keep an eye on rising freshman athlete Marcus Smith (5-6, 130) as well.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOREBOOK LIVE FLORIDA
For the past 53 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 been around high school football the past 5-10 years you already know that the landscape is ever changing.
With many student/athletes on the move during the off-season, it is tough to predict the future – because the roster changes from week to week.
With transfers moving in and several prospects leaving, predicting what any roster will look like when things kick off again in August of 2023.
The one thing that is almost automatic is the Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders will be in the mix for another title.
Four consecutive state crowns, including this past season’s first ever 3M title and 27 straight wins will put this team right back in the spotlight under veteran head coach Roger Harriott.
While a tremendous senior class is moving on, there are a number of underclassmen who will return from this 14-0 season.
Among those coming back are Class of 2024 rising seniors Justin Bodford (DL, 6-1, 285). Declan Connor (OL, 5-10, 220), James Hill (QB, 6-2, 165), Semaj Jackson (DB, 5-9, 170), nationally rated Michael Kern (P/K, 6-3, 170), one of the country’s best Jordan Lyle (RB, 6-0, 200), seasoned defensive back Ryan Mack (5-10, 170), fast-rising James Madison II (WR, 6-3, 203) and versatile lineman James McDevitt (DL/OL, 6-2, 235).
The class also boasts veterans David Pein (DL, 6-0, 280), Chance Robinson (WR, 6-2, 180) and outside linebacker Nicholas Rodriguez (6-1, 205). The Raiders also feature Anthony Truiolo (QB, 5-9, 170), Bryan Wallace (OL, 6-5, 310) and Cameron Williams (CB, 5-9, 175).
KEEP AN EYE ON SOME PROSPECTS
With a solid rising senior class, this team will also be set with rising juniors in the Class of 2025 – with amazing Caleb Harris (OL, 6-4, 265), Logan Husband (DE, 6-5, 220), Andrew Indorf (QB, 6-0, 180), Martin Rhyne (LB, 6-2, 210), nationally recognized Nicholas Romero (PK, 5-8, 150) and Trevor Sommers (DE, 6-2, 230). Also keep an eye on some Class of 2026 standouts that will be sophomores in 2023. Players such as Justice Fitzpatrick (DB, 5-10, 170), Aidan Hrenick (LB, 5-10, 220) and promising Teddy Welch (OL, 5-11, 250).
For the past 53 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..
Now that we are in the off-season, there are a number of features that we will bring you every day.
From camp, combine and 7-on-7 coverage to player profiles and information about Miami-Dade and Broward County coaches and players who are making headlines.
One of the features that we will bring your way is the PROSPECT WATCH that will include team and player information that our many college coaches will have access to and read for FREE.
It is all part of what we do 365 days a year to ensure that EVERY player gets exposure the over 100,000 social media users and 500 plus college coaches who view our content throughout the year.
Last year, we attended more live events than any single source and had the chance to see nearly 5,000 high school football players statewide and be a part of the process.
While many sit in front of a computer or listen to what others say, we have been fortunate to go to many, many events – meeting players, coaches and families.
We kick off our new feature with a look at the Fort Lauderdale Stranahan Dragons and head coach Travis Harden, @tharden1983 - 954-899-8042), This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Here is a look at the rising senior, junior and sophomore classes:
2024
Jovanny Alquisirias (WR, 5-7, 160).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/15372516/Jovanny-Alquisiras
Raheem Hall (OL, 6-2, 305).
Joshua Hoggins (WR, 6-0, 165).
Kaleb Lawrence (DB, 5-11, 175).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/16316665/Kaleb-Lawrence
Miles Mathis (DB, 6-2, 170).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/15730199/Miles-Mathis
Jarvis Miller (WR, 6-2, 165).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/16316647/Javaris-Miller
Nicholas Smith (WR/PK, 6-1, 175).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/16217644/Nicholas-Smith-Jr
Cris Thornton (WR, 6-5, 170).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/15257969/Cris-Thornton
Rueben Toombs (QB, 6-1, 165).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/14173888/Rueben-Toombs-Jr
2025
Edrick Bush (Athlete, 5-9, 160)
Ashton Jackson (Edge, 6-2, 255).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/15990990/Ashton-Jackson
Tyler Jackson (Athlete, 5-9, 160).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17536405/Tyler-Jackson
Timothy Johnson (RB, 5-11, 170).
James Lewis (Edge, 6-3, 235).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17883014/James-Lewis
Kelvin Williams (DB, 5-9, 155)
2026
Demetrius Hixon (OL, 6-6, 330).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17878385/Dametrius-Hixson
Kemetrius Hixon (OL/DL, 6-2, 245).
Zachariah Ray (RB, 5-9, 160).
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..
Moments after this year’s thrilling overtime 4M state title game against Apopka, talk began about the 2023 season.
Many who follow this game have already started to pencil in head coach Dave Dunn and Miami Christopher Columbus and Apopka as two teams that have to go in as favorites to get back to the state championship game.
One of the reasons why the Explorers will be a team that everyone will need not only to watch locally and statewide, but nationally as well, is the players coming back.
While a few seniors will depart, this team will be loaded – especially if more talent finds its way into southwest Miami – which is very possible.
But while you always speculate who may be headed there, the reality is the Class of 2024 will be one of the best in south Florida – with Edward Bandy (RB, 5-6, 155), Jeff Bandy (CB, 5-10, 155), Benjamin Blackburn (TE, 6-5, 230), T. J. Capers (OLB/DE, 6-3, 230), Jose Leon (WR, 5-10, 170), Alberto Mendoza (QB, 6-2, 190), Daylen Russell (DT, 6-2, 230), Dylan Stephenson (DE, 6-4, 220), Jancent Wallace (CB, 5-10, 150) and Jonathan Zarut (LS, 5-10, 195).
In addition the rising senior class will also boast prospects such as Fadrelle Andrus (WR, 6-2, 170), Rocco Bradley (WR, 6-3, 180), Blake Brewer (OL, 6-1, 265), Sebastian Broche (DT, 6-2, 200), Alejandro Calderin (WR, 5-11, 181), Alexzander Cano (LB, 5-10, 185), Samuel Davidson (WR, 6-0, 190), Jah’rian Deloach (WR, 5-5, 140), Jason Ibarra (DB/OLB, 5-10, 170) and linebacker Adrian Leonard (5-11, 180).
Also keep an eye on Nicholas McCormick (K/P, 6-2, 185), Ryan Parente (S, 5-9, 170), Cameron Pineda (DB, 5-11, 165), Tristan Pineda (WR, 6-2, 175), Sebastian Polo (LB, 5-11, 185), Sebastian Rodriguez (LB, 5-11, 218), Gabriel Saustegui (OLB, 5-10, 165), Martin Seals (DT, 5-10, 240), Jose Valdes (DE, 6-1, 210) and defensive lineman Robert Williams (6-3, 242).
FUTURE IS LOOKING REALLY GOOD
As impressive as the rising senior class will be, those prospects in the rising junior (2025) group will also be worth keeping sn eye on with Agyeman Addae (RB/FS, 5-7, 155), Cayan Lamothe-Arice (DB, 5-10, 155), Matteo Arrango (PK), Shaddai Carter (S, 5-10, 175), Hector Chavez (LB, 5-9, 211), Robert Czeremcha (K/P), Fernando De Izaguirre (OT, 6-2, 230), Hezekiah Downs (DT, 6-0, 220), Remington Goins (TE, 6-2, 205), J.J. Gomez (WR, 5-8, 155), Darriel Harper (WR, 5-9, 145), and Alex Jorge (OT, 6-6, 265), Joey Mirabal (OL, 6-2, 270).
Also keep an eye on James Orange (DB, 6-0, 150), Armando Pardey (DB, 5-10, 165), Jorge Portocarrero (S), Jalani Reams (DB, 6-0, 175), Victor Rodriguez (LB, 6-0, 175), Justin Weaver (DB, 5-8, 140) and Class of 2026 standout Ruben Hernandez (OT, 6-2, 270)
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..
MIRAMAR – It was only fitting that the Year of the Rockets continued on Friday night at the Ansin Sports Complex.
Four-time defending state champion an d national champion Miami Central, with 15 players and head coach Jube Joseph representing the Miami-Dade team, won yet another thriller in the second “The Battle for the Crib” Miami-Dade vs. Broward contest.
Central quarterback Keyone Jenkins, who signed with FIU on Wednesday, connected on a 5-yard touchdown pass to teammate Cataurus Hicks on the final play of the game and Miami-Dade County came from behind to beat Broward County, 23-21, evening the series at 1-1.
With an impressive year-ending crowd on hand – along with former players who are now in college on hand – Miami-Dade kept the last drive alive on a long pass from Jenkins to University of Pittsburgh singee Lamar Seymore, who made a diving catch at the five. With seven seconds left, Jenkins found Hicks in the back of the end zone for the game-winner.
According to game organizers Frank Tucker and Arvis Lawson, this impressive game featured players who have committed to Power 5 schools, and more than 30 prospects with Division 1 who have already signed letters of intent.
The Broward team featured Oregon State signees Tastean Reddicks (WR, Dillard) and Blanche Ely DB Harlem Howard. Cardinal Gibbons’ running back Kamari Moulton (Iowa), Dillard running back Christopher Johnson (Miami) and Pine Crest receiver Jordan Faison (Notre Dame).
Western defensive end Justin Tedim (Colgate) and Cardinal Gibbons’ linebacker Greg Otten, who has Ivy League schools hot on his trail, were also standouts on Friday evening.
Players like North Miami Beach athlete Makhi Rolle (Northern Illinois), Carol City’s Mister Clark (FIU), Western receiver British Mitchell, Miami Central receiver Corey Washington and Dillard defensive back Trevaughn Martinez (Western Carolina), St. Thomas Aquinas versatile running back/defensive back Gemari Sands (FAU), Plantation American Heritage quarterback Blake Murphy (Louisiana Munroe) and long snapper Aiden Arias (North Carolina State) to name a few.
In addition, there were a number of prospects who still do not have homes – and that is something that this game was perfect for.
“There are a lot of post season all-star games that are held,” Tucker said. “But with this event you had media and recruiting services out here who have plenty of contacts and that is a great thing for the many quality players who do not have anything yet.”
Matthew Prigmore, OL
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..