Here is the breakdown of tonight’s area Class 3 state semifinal matchup in the Metro Division. The winner advances to next week’s state championship game.
Tonight’s Area state semifinal Matchup
Class 3M
For the full MaxPreps bracket click here.
Gaither (8-5) at Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas (12-1), 7:30
The Cowboys rebounded from a 2-5 start to win their last six games, including an overtime victory over Jesuit in last week’s region final, to advance to the state semifinals for the second time in school history. Gaither’s surge can be attributed largely to the emergence of Elija Mason as a workhorse back. The sophomore has gained more than 90 yards on the ground five times during the Cowboys’ current win streak. In the playoffs, Mason has been an even bigger factor, rushing for a combined 420 yards in the last three games. If you are a fan of elite pass rushers, this is your game. St. Thomas Aquinas’ Kedrick Burley is fourth in the state in sacks with 24. Gaither’s Antonio Henley is seventh with 21. For the Cowboys to reach the state championship game for the first time, they have to get past one of the state’s perennial powers. The Raiders have won a record 14 state titles, including four straight. They are currently ranked first in the class, third overall in the state and 10th nationally by MaxPreps.
Stat leaders
| Category | Gaither | St. Thomas Aquinas |
| Passing yards | Jayce Nixon, 3,004 | Andrew Indorf, 1,760 |
| Rushing yards | Elija Mason, 1,301 | Jordan Lyle, 1,157 |
| Receiving yards | Ladainian Ferrell, 822 | James Madison II, 622 |
| Tackles | Jaron Gun, 75 | Nicholas Rodriguez, 90 |
| Sacks | Antonio Henley, 21 | Kedrick Burley, 24 |
| Interceptions | Serious Stinyard, 3 | Three tied with two. |
