Week 1 of the 2022 Florida high school football season brings some high-profile interstate matchups, as well as some marquee in-state contests. On the other hand, a number of in-state matchups are of the underrated variety, but each could easily end up being just as good as some of the more high-profile games. Following is a look at some of those unheralded in-state Week 1 matchups, along with our picks for who will win.
Cocoa vs. Jones
Cocoa, arguably the preseason favorite in Class 2S, opens the 2022 Florida high school football season with a home matchup against 3M’s Jones. After falling just short of the 4A state title a year ago, Cocoa must replace some key players, in particular on offense. This matchup against a Jones defense led by IMG Academy transfer Malik Bryant is an underrated but tough Week 1 test.
Prediction: Cocoa 17, Jones 28
Osceola vs. Treasure Coast
Two of the top preseason teams in Class 4S collide to begin the year as Osceola hosts Treasure Coast. The Titans, who were among the top teams in 8A a year ago, face a stiff road test right out of the gate. The Treasure Coast offense will match up with an Osceola defensive front that is among the best in Class 4S, thanks in part to the duo of Derrick LeBlanc and John Walker.
Prediction: Osceola 24, Treasure Coast 21
Wharton vs. Jesuit
Coming off one of the best single seasons in recent program history, Jesuit begins its hunt for a second consecutive state title as the Tigers open the season with a road trip to face Wharton. The Wildcats, led by defensive back Dijon Johnson, could present an early-season challenge for a Tigers offense that returns a few notable names headlined by running back Joquez Smith.
Prediction: Wharton 21, Jesuit 30
Clearwater Central Catholic vs. Berkeley Prep
If you are seeking an underrated but intriguing Week 1 Class 2M vs. 1M matchup to watch for in Florida high school football this week, Clearwater Central Catholic hosting Berkeley Prep just might be your answer. A Top 15 matchup from our preseason Classes 1 and 2 Top 25 rankings, the Marauders will take on a Berkeley Prep defense led by one of the state’s top players in edge rusher Keon Keeley.
Prediction: Clearwater Central Catholic 20, Berkeley Prep 30
Naples vs. Lehigh
If you’re looking for a game with some high-profile talent at running back, then Naples hosting Lehigh is your answer. The Lightning are led by arguably the nation’s top running back in five-star Richard Young, while Naples has one of the best duos in 4S with Kendrick Raphael and Isaiah Augustave.
Prediction: Naples 28, Lehigh 20
In addition to these Florida high school Week 1 contests, here are a few more potentially underrated games to watch for later this week:
- University Christian vs. Union County
- Rockledge vs. Gulliver Prep
- Seminole vs. Riverview-Sarasota
- South Walton vs. Baker
- Raines vs. Monsignor Pace
- Florida State vs. Trinity Catholic
- Carrollwood Day vs. Madison County
- Booker T. Washington vs. Killian
- Nease vs. Andrew Jackson
- Pahokee vs. Cardinal Newman
Who do you think will win each of these games?
