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Berkeley Prep (2-2) at Calvary Christian (3-1), 6:30

Last year’s meeting was a thriller with the Buccaneers holding on to win 28-26. It was the only regular season game Berkeley Prep did not win by double digits en route to reaching the state title game. This one has more meaning now that the two are both in Class 2, District 7 of the Metro Division. The host Warriors come in with the better record thanks to a prolific offense that has scored 31 or more points in each of their three wins. The key will be whether the Buccaneers defensive line, led by Keon Keeley and Brice Stevenson, can create enough pressure to disrupt Calvary Christian’s passing game. 

Putnam’s pick: Calvary Christian 28-24

Armwood (3-1) at Wharton (3-1), 7

The Wildcats grabbed all the headlines during the offseason for their run to the region final the previous year – and a number of high-profile additions to the roster. But Wharton is the one looking to exact revenge after losing to the Hawks last season. Expect a low-scoring game in the rematch. After losing to Jesuit in the season opener, the Wildcats have won three straight behind a dominant defense that has posted two shutouts and allowed just six points in the last three games. Armwood also has won three straight, including a victory over defending state champion Jesuit that gives the Hawks plenty of confidence. During that streak, Armwood allowed a combined 27 points. 

Putnam’s pick: Armwood 14-13

East Lake (4-1) at Steinbrenner (2-2), 7

This is a rematch from last year’s game the host Warriors won 24-14 to help clinch a district championship. To defend that title, Steinbrenner will have to get past the Eagles again. After starting 0-2, the Warriors have won two straight, scoring 52 points each in victories over Plant City and Lennard. Besides its offense getting on track, Steinbrenner also has the advantage of coming off its bye week. East Lake has been equally impressive, rebounding from an opening week loss to Lake Gibson to win four straight. During that streak, the Eagles defense has allowed an average of 10 points per game. 

Putnam’s pick: Steinbrenner 20-14

Newsome (3-1) at Riverview (3-1), 7

The Wolves have won three straight in the series, scoring more than 40 points in each victory. The offensive production has continued this season with Newsome scoring more than 30 points in all three wins. But the Sharks are showing they are no longer pushovers.Riverview posted shutouts in each win and came close to knocking off undefeated East Bay (a 21-19 loss) in its last game.  

Putnam’s pick: Newsome 17-7

Durant (4-1) at Sumner (4-1), 7

Despite graduating a number of key players, the Cougars keep finding ways to win. And their one loss was by a point to Bloomingdale. The host Stingrays, who won a district title last season, started this year with four , straight victories before losing to Wharton. The key will be if Durant’s defense, which has forced 13 turnovers, can continue to opportunistic against Sumner’s high-scoring offense. 

Putnam’s pick: Sumner 30-21

Strawberry Crest (5-0) at Plant (3-2), 7

The Chargers are 5-0 for the first time in school history. Another victory and Strawberry Crest will secure its second winning season in the program’s 12-year history. But the Chargers are aiming for more than just that. They are looking for their district title. A win against the host Panthers would go a long way in an important Class 4, District 7 contest in the Metro Division. The Panthers, who started 0-2, have gained some momentum with three straight wins, all by 39 or more points. 

Putnam’s pick: Plant 35-21

Best of the rest

Seffner Christian at Cambridge Christian, 6

Putnam’s pick: Seffner Christian 28-21

Sickles at Palm Harbor University, 7

Putnam’s pick: Sickles 28-27

Bloomingdale at Lennard, 7

Putnam’s pick: Bloomingdale 24-7

Jefferson at Blake, 7

Putnam’s pick: Jefferson 20-14

Spoto at East Bay, 7

Putnam’s pick: East Bay 28-7

Alonso at Plant City, 7

Putnam’s pick: Alonso 24-20

Freedom at Tampa Bay Tech, 7

Putnam’s pick: Tampa Bay Tech 49-0

Chamberlain at Middleton, 7

Putnam’s pick: Middleton 21-7

Leto at Jesuit, 7

Putnam’s pick: Jesuit 42-7

King at Brandon, 7

Putnam’s pick: Brandon 14-13

Hillsborough at Gaither, 7

Putnam’s pick: Gaither 27-21