Last week marked the exhilarating beginning of the Class 4A state playoffs across Florida, and this classification has surpassed all expectations.
As teams gear up for Friday’s regional semifinals, fans are anticipating an array of captivating matchups, with the competitive field of 16 teams poised to dwindle dramatically. This second round promises several intriguing contests, accompanied by the long treks fans and players will make across the sunlit expanses of the Sunshine State.
While tournament favorites are expected to advance, the reality remains that formidable teams could see their campaigns cut unexpectedly short, resulting in thrilling upsets and surprising outcomes.
Check out the projected winners for the regional semifinal matchups this Friday, as determined by High School On SI, and see which teams will secure coveted spots in the Class 4A state region finals.
Ed White (5) at St. Augustine (1)
Andy V’s quick hits: Last year, St. Augustine reached the Class 3S state championship but fell to Mainland in a closely contested final. The Yellow Jackets have shown resilience this season, suffering only one loss, which was a tight match against Nease.
Prediction: St. Augustine
Escambia (3) at Choctawhatchee (2)
Andy V’s quick hits: In a commendable performance, Von Keller has effectively stepped in for Cole Tabb, who is now making waves at Stanford. This talented sophomore has amassed an impressive tally of 1,481 rushing yards and has crossed the end zone 18 times for the Indians.
Prediction: Escambia
Zephyrhills (4) at Jones (1)
Andy V’s quick hits: In a display of mastery, Miami (FL) commitment Dereon Coleman showcased his skills against Lake Region, throwing an astounding seven touchdowns in the first half before being substituted for the remaining game.
Prediction: Jones
Lake Wales (3) at Vanguard (2)
Andy V’s quick hits: Vanguard created a stir last season by knocking Lake Wales out of the Class 3S playoffs during the regional finals, showcasing their competitive edge.
Prediction: Lake Wales
Jesuit (5) at Port Charlotte (1)
Andy V’s quick hits: Jesuit’s quarterback, Will Griffin, has had an explosive season, amassing 2,013 passing yards along with 23 touchdown throws, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Prediction: Port Charlotte
St. Petersburg (6) at Naples (2)
Andy V’s quick hits: Fans looking for a run-heavy game won’t be disappointed as both St. Petersburg and Naples have each accrued over 3,000 rushing yards this season, promising a ground-and-pound battle.
Prediction: Naples
Dillard (5) at Plantation American Heritage (1)
Andy V’s quick hits: The impressive Texas commit Dia Bell has put on a remarkable performance this fall, throwing for 2,474 yards while securing 29 touchdowns to bolster his team’s playoff run.
Prediction: Plantation American Heritage
Archbishop McCarthy (6) at Miami Norland (2)
Andy V’s quick hits: Ennio Yapoor, quarterback for Miami Norland, boasts the impressive title of all-time leading passer in yardage in Dade County history, making him a player to watch as the playoffs unfold.
Prediction: Miami Norland
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What are the key factors that will determine the outcome of the playoff matchups?
D=”_4m42u74e5″>Prediction: Miami Norland
Broward Christian (5) at Chaminade-Madonna (1)
Andy V’s quick hits: Chaminade-Madonna solidified themselves as a top contender this season, with a balanced attack on both offense and defense that has made them difficult to beat.
Prediction: Chaminade-Madonna
Cocoa (4) at Jensen Beach (1)
Andy V’s quick hits: Cocoa has been a formidable force this year, demonstrating dominance with a stout defense and explosive playmaking ability.
Prediction: Cocoa
Tampa Bay Tech (5) at Orlando Lake Nona (1)
Andy V’s quick hits: Lake Nona enters the playoffs with an impressive streak, demonstrating an ability to score quickly and efficiently.
Prediction: Lake Nona
South Miami (3) at Homestead (2)
Andy V’s quick hits: This matchup is set to be intense, with both teams exhibiting robust defensive capabilities that may lead to a low-scoring affair.
Prediction: Homestead
Finish out with your team predictions and thoughts for this upcoming playoff series!
