You have probably read all the storylines about this upcoming 6A state championship between undefeated Armwood and 1 loss Miami Central; The rematch, no Joe Yearby, back to back champs, prospects…the whole “kitchen sink.” So we are not going to sugarcoat it or tell you something you don’t know. But, lets just state the facts!
This is what you need to know before the game tomorrow:
THE GO GUYS
Dalvin Cook – pretty simple for Armwood. Stop the best offensive threat on the field. The senior athlete, Dalvin Cook is a monster. Can play any skilled position on the field, but is volatile as a running back. This season he has scored 180 points, 1644 rushing yards and 30 TDs. Even more impressive, Cook averages 12 yards each time he carries the football. Cook makes the Rocket offense go. Whenever he touches the ball, he has the chance to explode for a big gain and if that happens, he will not be looking back and will not be caught from behind.
Noah Johnson – The first year starting QB is attempting to do what all the historic Armwood QBs have done, win a state title. Armwood coaches raved about Johnson last season and were excited about him taking over this year. But, very few thought he would set the area on fire as he did. Doesn’t have the rocket arm, but completes around 60% of his passes. Doesn’t have elite speed, but leads the team in rushing with 810 yards. Point: Johnson gets it done. He is crafty, he is smart and he takes care of the football…and he is undefeated as a starter.
THE SHOWSTOPPERS
Fermin Silva – The Rocket defensive end is a handful. By the numbers: 29 solo tackles 16 assisted tackles, 10 TFLs and 16 sacks. Armwood must be alert to where he is lining up at each snap. He has good length and is athletic enough to take chances.
Jordan Griffin – Armwood’s 2015 LB will have to play big. Stopping this running attack will likely be the toughest assignment in his young career. However, Griffin has been great this season. 73 solo tackles and 13 TFLs. He is a downhill LB with great feet and physical between the tackles. He will need to be a monster on Championship Game Day.
IF IT DOESN’T HAPPEN…
Kick well – We are anticipating a slow first half, both teams exchanging punts and punt returns. Field position is gong to be huge and will start with the kickers on both teams trying to give their defense a better opportunity to prevent the opposing offense from getting to the promise land. The team that does not kick well, will put themselves between a rock and a hard place.
The game is promised to be good. 1:07pm Saturday is the scheduled kickoff. Both teams have their injuries, both teams have been in their battles and are battle tested and both teams are recent champions. Who will wear the crown this year?