The regular season kicks off with three games in Pinellas County on Thursday. Find out about the matchups, then vote on the winner. Voting lasts until noon on Thursday.
Seminole at Boca Ciega, 7:30
Auggie Sanchez, hired by the Warhawks this offseason, had a successful preseason debut with a win over Brandon. Now, the former Northeast and USF standout tries to continue that momentum with his first regular season victory as a coach. Colby Outlaw started at quarterback in the preseason and threw for a pair of touchdowns. The defense, led by lineman Teddy Cotto and linebacker David Searles, did a good job containing the Eagles. Second-year Matt Gudorf got the Pirates off to a good start with a preseason win over Palm Harbor University. The offensive line played well opening holes for Zahir Favors and others.
Northeast at Lakewood, 7:30
Both teams won their preseason games. Now, comes the real test, especially for the Vikings’ secondary. They have to find a way to slow down the Spartans’ powerful passing game. Lakewood quarterback Anthony Colandrea, a Virginia commit, has thrown for a combined 880 yards and 12 touchdowns in the spring game against American Heritage and the preseason kickoff classic against Palmetto. And last week’s game against the Tigers lasted just two quarters. Northeast will need to sustain some lengthy drives to Lakewood’s offense off the field. The Vikings can do that with a running game, led by Markese Norfleet and Mikale Washington, among others.
Hollins vs. Green Mountain (Co.), 7:30 at Disney’s Wide World of Sports
Royals coach Dale Caparaso, who announced he would retire at the end of the year, begins his final season with the program. For Hollins to be successful, it has to rely on its run game, led by Joel Houedenou. Green Mountain, which went 6-5 last season, is ranked No. 14 in its classification in Colorado by MaxPreps.
