As we head toward the second week of the state playoffs in south Florida, we are going to see some impressive talent all over Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
With several rematches taking place, the action will be heated and competitive as the race for the state championships are in high gear.
If you follow high school football in south Florida, you already know that Week 1 of the state playoffs was just a small appetizer for what’s ahead.
While there were no real upsets – other than No. 8 Plantation beating No. 1 Fort Myers Dunbar, which really wasn’t that much of a surprise – what the first week did was set the tempo for the next four weeks.
Starting with yesterday’s two games that kicked off the state playoffs, you can almost guarantee that this region will be watched by everyone.
While we already know that the amazing number of prospects that come out of this region each and every year is mind-boggling, to say the least, the teams that are developed in the #305 and #954 are unmatched.
If you follow high school football, you know all about the 2020 season.
When it came to south Florida, the options were thin and if you made a decision to go ahead and play for a state title, you may end up with less games. For Miami Palmetto, the gamble turned out to be an experience.
It’s been a few years since South Broward High’s football program has been relevant, but that all changed in 2021.
The Bulldogs, heading into the first round of the 7A state playoffs on Friday at Harris Field against No. 2 seed Homestead (8-1), have been impressive in winning eight of nine under first year head coach Charles McCrae.
McCrae, who is no stranger to the Hollywood area and Broward County, attended high school and played his youth football in the area, so taking over this year perfect for this one-time running back standout.
What he has done in a short period of time is turn things around at a program that has had plenty of success in the post season, but it’s been a few years.
The Bulldogs know that the Broncos will be a huge obstacle, but feel that this senior class, which has been impressive all season, will be able to step up in the opening round of the playoffs and make a difference.
With the only loss of the season, a district matchup with Miramar, this is a team that has come together and played sound football on both sides of the ball.
Wins over Nova (42-0), Flanagan (29-6), West Broward (21-10), South Plantation (44-6), Miramar Everglades (35-0), North Miami (28-22), McArthur (29-7) and Cooper City (34-14) got this team to where it is this week – awaiting a playoff game.
CLASS OF 2022 CAME THROUGH BIG TIME!
That senior class that McCrae and the Bulldogs have been counting on include Jovaun Thorpe (OT/DE, 6-2, 250), Ahmare Thomas (N/DT, 6-2, 265), Ian Davis (C/G, 6-3, 295), Chase Petersen (WR/SS, 5-9, 180), Tarvis Palmer (WR, 6-2, 200), Makail Wilson (LB/RB, 6-2, 210), Bryshaad Johnson (DT/OG, 6-0, 250) and quarterback DeSean Dixon (6-0, 195).
There are also Xzayvier Phillips (WR, 6-1, 175), Michael Gomez (WR, 5-7, 170), Kareem Carswell (Athlete, 5-8,185), Dakendrew Marshall (DB, 6-1, 185), Jahkar Mobley (DB, 5-10, 170), Demarian Lane (Athlete/WR, 5-7, 160), Jaquise Wright (Athlete/RB, 5-8, 210) and talented defensive back Jordan Mastroeni (5-9, 175).
KEEP AN EYE ON THE UNDERCLASSMEN
As much as the seniors have been a huge plus – the underclassmen have also made a huge impact as well. Class of 2023 juniors such as Eddie Rodriguez Jr. (WR, 5-11, 170), Danny Maitlen Jr. (OL/DL, 6-3, 300), Gary Nanton (S, 5-11, 185), Trey Scott (OLB/SS, 6-0, 185) and versatile Giani Santos (SS/LB, 5-10, 165) have been solid. So have Class of 2024 sophomores Reggie Smith (DB/WR, 5-9, 165), Brandon Rabasco K/P, 6-5, 190) and Chris Wheatley-Humphrey (Athlete/RB, 6-2, 190).
PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTH BROWARD FOOTBALL
TRACKING POSITIONS: Keeping An Eye On The Football Talent In Miami-Dade & Broward Counties Year Round. https://larryblustein.com/prospects/tracking-south-florida-prospects
For the past 51 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..