With the 2023 FHSAA state semifinal matchups now set, here are our Pick 6 predictions for the week’s biggest games.
Buchholz vs. Lakeland
We begin this week’s Pick 6 slate with perhaps the biggest matchup in the 2023 FHSAA state semifinal round, Buchholz (13-0) vs. Lakeland (10-3) in the Class 4S state semifinals. The Bobcats have yet to lose this season, and Lakeland, the defending Class 4S state champion, has yet to lose to a team within its classification.
Prediction: Buchholz 27, Lakeland 24
Homestead vs. Jones
The biggest matchup in Class 3M is this one featuring Jones (10-3) at Homestead (11-1). The home team is coming off back-to-back one-possession wins over Southridge and Miramar; likewise, Jones eked out close victories over Edgewater and Tampa Bay Tech.
Prediction: Homestead 24, Jones 17
Mainland vs. Vanguard
Likely the biggest matchup in Class 3S is Mainland squaring off against a Vanguard team coming off an impressive 52-15 win over defending state champion Lake Wales. The Knights (11-2) now face a Mainland squad that has lost only once and stands at 12-1.
Prediction: Mainland 30, Vanguard 27
American Heritage vs. Berkeley Prep
Class 2M’s biggest state semifinal matchup is American Heritage (10-1) against Berkeley Prep (11-2). The Patriots have scored 40+ points in every game during the playoffs, while Berkeley Prep is coming off a close one-possession win over Calvary Christian.
Prediction: American Heritage 30, Berkeley Prep 17
Bradford vs. Pensacola Catholic
In a Class 2S headline matchup, Bradford (13-0) faces off against Pensacola Catholic (11-2). Pensacola Catholic comes in riding a six-game winning streak.
Prediction: Bradford 24, Pensacola Catholic 17
Clearwater Central Catholic vs. Trinity Christian
Our final Pick 6 matchup of the week comes in Class 1M, where Clearwater Central Catholic (12-0) faces Trinity Christian (9-3), which has won its last five games.
Prediction: Clearwater Central Catholic 27, Trinity Christian 21
