Florida State vs. Cocoa

This week’s Florida high school state finals predictions begin with the Class 2S state title matchup on Friday between Florida State (14-0) and Cocoa (10-3). The Seminoles come into the contest averaging 35.2 PPG while allowing only 13.4 PPG. Cocoa is a just a step above Florida State offensively at 39.6 PPG, and the Tigers defense also is tough to score on at 12.8 PPG.

This game is likely to come down to quarterback play. Cocoa is led by one of the state’s leading passers, Blake Boda, while Florida State counters with a highly ranked passer of its own in Jeremy Johnston. It should be a close game between two solid teams on both sides of the ball, but I’ll say Cocoa avenges its 4A state title loss a year ago to be crowned state champs in 2022.

Prediction: Cocoa 28, Florida State 21

Chaminade-Madonna vs. Clearwater Central Catholic

One of the first 2022 Florida high school football state finals comes Thursday as Chaminade-Madonna (12-0) and Clearwater Central Catholic (12-1) collide to decide Class 1M. The Lions own one of the state’s most electrifying offenses (50.8 PPG) and they’re allowing only 10.5 PPG. The Marauders are averaging 34.9 PPG while allowing 14.8 PPG.

Chaminade-Madonna has rolled through the Class 1M playoffs and it’s clear to see why they’re the favorite in this contest. The Marauders likely will need to match points on the scoreboard to have a chance to win. Since only one team has scored in double digits on the Lions since mid-September, the pick goes to the Lions, with Chaminade-Madonna’s offense pulling away in the second half.

Prediction: Chaminade-Madonna 38, Clearwater Central Catholic 17

First Baptist Academy vs. Trinity Catholic

The Class 1S state title game will be played on Saturday afternoon as First Baptist Academy faces off with Trinity Catholic in a battle of 9-2 teams. The Lions come into the game averaging 36.4 PPG on offense and 15 PPG allowed on defense, while the Celtics are averaging 38.8 PPG and 15.5 PPG, respectively.

The numbers show two nearly even teams, so this game has the potential to be close and could go either way. I’ll say Trinity Catholic wins a close one and claims the Class 1S state title.

Prediction: Trinity Catholic 24, First Baptist Academy 21

Hawthorne vs. Northview

Concluding this week’s Florida high school football state finals predictions is a look at the showdown between undefeated Hawthorne (11-0) and Northview (13-0) Saturday night for the Class 1R state title. The Hornets come into the game averaging 28.7 PPG and allowing only 10 PPG, while the Chiefs are averaging 42.5 PPG and 14 PPG, respectively.

Both teams have enjoyed simply phenomenal seasons; they’re so good, this contest could go  either way. But I’ll say Hawthorne comes away with the win, likely in a one-possession game.

Prediction: Hawthorne 28, Northview 24