With state championship matchups now set in the state’s higher classifications, let’s take a look back at some of the top performances from the semifinals of the 2024 Florida high school football state playoffs this past week.
Jayvan Boggs, Wide Receiver – Cocoa Tigers
We begin with Jayvan Boggs, who had a season-high 17 receptions for 378 yards and three scores in Cocoa’s 31-21 win over Cardinal Mooney. Boggs also had a rush for 9 yards and returned a punt for 14 yards.
Brady Hart, Quarterback – Cocoa Tigers
Brady Hart completed 32-of-52 passes for 508 yards and three touchdowns in Cocoa’s 31-21 win over Cardinal Mooney. The senior also rushed for a season-high 43 yards on 12 attempts.
Justin Williams, Athlete – Buchholz Bobcats
Justin Williams had 11 receptions for 180 yards and three touchdowns in Buchholz’s 41-35 loss to Osceola. The junior also rushed for 7 yards on two attempts.
Leon Strawder, Quarterback – Miami Northwestern Bulls
Leon Strawder completed 19-of-24 passes for 290 yards and four touchdowns in the Bulls’ 40-0 win over Eau Gallie. He also rushed for 5 yards on one attempt.
Trace Johnson, Quarterback – Buchholz Bobcats
Despite throwing three interceptions, Trace Johnson completed 36-of-50 passes for 439 yards and five touchdowns in Buchholz’s 41-35 loss against Osceola. Johnson also rushed for 12 yards on one attempt.
Taevion Swint, Running Back – Osceola Kowboys
Taevion Swint rushed for 199 yards and a touchdown on 21 attempts in Osceola’s 41-35 win over Buchholz. He also returned a kickoff for 50 yards.
Jaquail Smith, Running Back – Jones Fightin’ Tigers
Jaquail Smith rushed for 145 yards and a touchdown on 14 attempts and caught two passes for 17 yards in Jones’ 18-7 win over Naples.
Shawn Simeon, Running Back – Naples Golden Eagles
Shawn Simeon rushed for 123 yards and a touchdown on 30 attempts in Naples’ 18-7 loss against Jones. The senior also returned two kickoffs for 39 yards.
Jyron Hughley, Quarterback – Cardinal Newman Crusaders
Jyron Hughley completed 12-of-19 passes for 108 yards and one touchdown and rushed for 102 yards and another score on 14 attempts in Cardinal Newman’s 22-21 loss against Clearwater Central Catholic.
Dylan Bennett, Linebacker – American Heritage Patriots
Dylan Bennett compiled 12 tackles and two tackles for loss in American Heritage’s 38-28 victory over St. Augustine.
