Boca Ciega

At a glance

Coach: Matt Gudorf, second season

Class: 2, District 8 (Metro)

Last season: 6-5

Key players: FS/WR Jeremiah Dennard, Sr.; MLB Bryce Downs, Sr.; RB/LB Zahir Favors, Sr.; OLB/TE Frederico Freeman, Sr.; OL/DL Jalen Garrett, Sr.; QB Talon Hughes, Jr.; C Tyrell Martin, Sr.; OL/DL Robby Medici, Jr.; RB/DE JJ Mercer, So.; WR/DB Tyrann Newsome, Sr.; SS Mikey Thomas, Jr.

Schedule

Aug. 19 at Palm Harbor University, 7 (preseason)

Aug. 26 vs. Seminole, 7:30

Sept. 2 vs. Pinellas Park, 7:30

Sept. 9 vs. Largo, 7:30

Sept. 16 at East Lake, 7:30

Sept. 23 at Northeast, 7:30

Sept. 30 at Lakewood, 7:30

Oct. 7 at Countryside, 7:30

Oct. 14 Bye

Oct. 21 vs. Hollins

Oct. 28 at Gibbs, 7:30

Nov. 4 vs. Clearwater, 7:30

Outlook

Boca Ciega coach Matt Gudorf had a successful debut last season, leading the program to a 6-5 record and a trip to the region quarterfinals. Now comes the hard part. The Pirates have to replace plenty of playmakers, including their leading passer, top four rushers and top two receivers from last season. Talon Hughes, who came over from Plant last season, is taking over at quarterback. He has some weapons around him, including Zahir Favors, Jeremiah Dennard, JJ Mercer and Tyrann Newsome, among others. The line on both sides of the ball should be steady with the return of Jalen Garrett, Robby Medici and Tyrell Martin. The defense will be led by Frederico Freeman, who was second on the team in tackles (74) and tied for second in sacks (four) last season.