“That’s why we play the game,” one of the truest sport phrases ever spoken. Anything could happen on any given game night. Some more realistic than others and many pretty far fetched. However things happen and if they did not, the season would be like watching a bad episode of Sharknado. With that said, below are some strong predictions that could realistically happen between earlier September and early December. If they do or don’t, “That’s why we play the game!”

1. Lakeland Christian will lead the 3A-4 district in scoring this season. One of two teams returning with a veteran QB. The Vikings have the best shot at leading the district in scoring this season, 4th last season.

2. Tampa Catholic will not allow more than 150 points in 2014. Hard to believe, but the Crusaders should have a more seasoned, experienced and hungrier defense than last season after allowing just 149 in 13 games.

3. Joey Caruso, Hudson 2015 QB will lead district 5A-7 in passing this season. 2000 yards could be a stretch, throwing for just 1108 just a season ago. However, 1500-1600 could really be possible!

4. How will Plant City fill the gap of the production that left when Tavares Chase transferred to IMG? Markese Hargrove now becomes a focus of the offense and will produce a 1,000 yard rushing season opening up the pass game for the Raider offense.

5. After going 5-5 the last three seasons, Calvary Christian will improve past .500 and go 3-1 in the district. Many key offseason acquisition make Calvary very attractive to rise in district 3A-5.

6. Donte Maxson will lead Pinellas County in rushing this year with 1500 or more yards on the ground. Last season Pinellas Park had two 1200 yard rushers and two ball carriers with 600 yards or more. Maxson will get the majority of the carries this year and will be hard to limit.

7. Winter Haven will play 13 or more games this season. Since 2009, the Blue Devils have played 11 or more games in a season. WH has a big, veteran offensive line, athletes, expected to have a tough defense and one of the best coaches in Polk. Long season for Winter Haven.

8. Not even double digit interceptions last season as a team, Wharton will push for the top spot in Hillsborough County this year due to the quality of the pass rush, number off defensive snaps and pass friendly offenses the Wildcat defense will face this season.

9. Mitchell will finish the regular season with 7 wins avenging 1 of the 4 losses (Zephyrhills, Land O’Lakes, Sunlake, Springstead) from last year. The past 3 seasons, the Mustangs finished the season 6-4. Time for change.

10. The BCP coverage area will have 3 teams play in the 2014 title game. Which teams? Enjoy the season!