Rick Patrick, Greene Publishing, Inc.
The trail to the state championship game goes through the small town of Pahokee on its way to Orlando. Kick off is set for 7:30 p.m. this evening. Both teams are bringing undefeated records to the game. The contest will pit the number one team in the state Class 1A rankings, the Cowboys of Madison County High School (MCHS); against the number two team, the Blue Devils of Pahokee High School (PHS).
There are similarities between the two teams. Most notably is the fact that both teams have scored many of their points in the fourth quarter. The Blue Devils have averaged 9.33 points per game in the fourth quarter, while the Cowboys have averaged 10 points per game in the final period. In total scoring per game, the Blue Devils have averaged 31.6 points per game compared to the Cowboys 36.2 points per game.
Looking at the team comparisons, the keys to the game for the Cowboys will be to limit turnovers and not give the Blue Devils any easy points. Another key to victory for the Cowboys will be to get off to an early lead. If the Cowboys are forced to play catch up, it may prove to be a very difficult task, especially late in the game. Field position will also be an important factor in this game. If the Cowboys can force the Blue Devils to drive the length of the field, this will give the Cowboys' defense more opportunities to create turnovers. Finally ball control, especially late in the game will be crucial. The Cowboys will need to establish the running game with Teryon Henderson and Derrick Staten and put together time consuming drives in order to keep the potent Pahokee offense off the field.
If the Cowboys can manage to accomplish this, then they will have punched their ticket to Orlando and will face the winner of the Blountstown/Baker contest. The Florida Class 1A state championship game will take place on Thursday, Dec. 8, at 1 p.m. Webcast details can be found at www.fhsaa.org.