The Prime Time Preps Campus Tour, presented by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is a free, interactive event that includes games and prizes for all fans, including the opportunity to get Bucs swag. The tour’s latest stop is at Palm Harbor University for tonight’s matchup against East Lake. Check out the preview below.
East Lake (4-4) At Palm Harbor University (6-2), Tonight, 7:30
Three Things To Know
Renowned rivalry
A first-rate rivalry should feature two high-quality teams, a close series and fan interest that borders on fanaticism.
East Lake and Palm Harbor University check all those boxes.
Die-hard fans, clad in blue, cheer for their beloved team on one side, often reaching high-decibel levels in the process. On the other side, a sea of maroon forms with devotees synchronizing chants and waving signs, intent on rankling the opposition.
That scene paints a portrait of perhaps one of the biggest high school football rivalries in Pinellas County, maybe even the country.
The Great American Rivalry Series thought so.
Five years ago, the annual grudge match was featured as the part of the Great American Rivalry Series.
The enthusiasm has not wavered, especially considering tonight’s game is for more than just bragging rights.
Something at stake
Tonight’s clash will decide the Class 4M, District 6 title.
East Lake, which is 2-0 in district play, has the clearest path to a championship. All the Eagles have to do is win to clinch the title.
It is more complicated for the Hurricanes.
If PHU wins and Sickles beats Steinbrenner tonight, then the Hurricanes are the champions. If PHU and Steinbrenner each win, then there is a three-way at the top of the district standings. The winner would be determined by the Florida High School Athletic Association’s power rankings. The Hurricanes, who are currently ranked No. 6 in Class 4M, Region 2, have the highest ranking among the three teams in that scenario.
Defense, defense
Expect a low scoring game. That has a lot to do with the defenses for both teams. PHU is allowing an average of 14 points per game. East Lake, meanwhile, has turned things around after an 0-3 start and has given a combined 29 points in its last two games.
Stat leaders
| Category | East Lake | Palm Harbor University |
| Passing yards | Eli Millian, 864 | Will Seibert, 322 |
| Rushing yards | Will Mirabella, 528 | Mykehl Boebert, 717 |
| Receiving yards | Will Mirabella, 209 | Jake Rennert, 174 |
| Tackles | Two with 72 | Gunner Fodor, 71 |
| Sacks | Jacob Taylor, 5 | Zavion Roberts, 4 |
| Interceptions | Camden Smith, 4 | Jason Ice, 2 |
