Regional Matchups, Previews, and Predictions
Tonight the playoffs begin with regional games. It means we are only a few games away from the state championships. In big games, stars shine in most cases but occasionally there’s a guy who’s been quietly playing well and the stage is set for that guy to take center stage. I took a look around to find guys who have been in the spotlight and others who are riding just below it and complied a player watch list for tonight’s games and my picks to move on.
St. Pete 21-5 vs Plant City 23-4
This game will be decided in the trenches. Guard play from both sides should be good but Plant City has a size advantage and is a deep team and that could be too much to overcome.
Players to Watch:
St. Pete: Tai Strickland, Serrel Smith, and Harlow Babb Plant City: Matt Simpson, Justyn King, and Triston Evans
My Pick: Plant City
Wharton 22-5 vs Bartow 16-11
Bartow is peaking at the right time but Wharton has been steady all year. I simply don’t think they have answer for Dj Henderson and he will be the difference in my eyes.
Players to Watch:
Wharton: Dj Henderson, Darin Green, and Carr Thiam Bartow: Jordan Daughtry and David Foreste
My Pick: Wharton
Hillsborough 22-5 vs Land O’ Lakes 18-7
I haven’t had a chance to personally see either team play but stat wise they matchup well. Should be close and I think based on highlights I’ve saw, Hillsborough’s athletes will get the job done.
Players to Watch:
Hillsborough: Christian Deleon and Warren McLymont Land O’ Lakes: Mekhi Perry, Chris McThomas, and Nick Poore
My Pick: Hillsborough
Tampa Bay Tech 21-10 vs Countryside 20-6
No team pressures the way TBT does but Countryside has a big size advantage. If the Titans can get the pace up and down, they have a chance to win this game.
Players to Watch:
Tampa Bay Tech: Tyrick Brascom, Jamarcus Robertson, and David Cexil Countryside: Matt Berry and Carlos Williams
My Pick: Countryside
Plant 23-5 vs Winter Haven 20-9
Plant is a smart team, their patient and take advantage of another teams mistakes. Winter Haven has had a lot of slow starts this year and can’t afford that tonight. Watch for Plant to push the pace and spread the floor, if Winter Haven don’t come to play early then it’ll be over quick.
Plant: Dylan Wilson and Ronald Boyd Winter Haven: Keyshawn Bryant, Dorian James and Zaquan Sullivan
My Pick: Plant