5-1 Lake Wales will travel to 5-1 Winter Haven tonight. Lake Wales is on a 3 game win streak after being defeated by Daytona Beach Mainland. Winter Haven is riding a 4 game win streak after losing to Lakeland in game 2. Lake Wales has scored just under 30 more points than Winter Haven this season. But have allowed 50 more points to opponents this season. The bulk of that in the 53-9 loss to Mainland.

On the field tonight will be several good players and just as many good college prospects. Below are 10 players that spectator can expect to make an impact on the outcome of the game no matter which way the victory points at the end of the game.

Winter Haven

We know about some of the big names, such as Michael Arnold, Darius James and Johnny Footman. But other Blue Devils that we should pay close attention to tonight:

DB Jarrod Kelley – Made the move from corner to safety this season. Has even lined up at outside line backer. Kelley provides Winter Haven with a security blanket in the deep half of the defense. Disciplined player with lots of playing experience and solid tackler in the open field.

OL/DL Romello Sekura – Relentless player who plays both sides of the ball and will be counted on tonight to open holes and clog them up to limit the Highlander dynamic running backs. Romello is trustworthy and technique sound. Veteran player who does not make many mistakes.

LB Sam Surin – One of the most disruptive players in the 6A-11 district. Very athletic player off the edge. He will be crucial tonight as Lake Wales will push the pass game and attempt to work the edge of the defense in the run game. Sam is a pleasure to watch as a player because he plays with passion and pride!

DB Ohaji Hawkins – Long corner! He will be tested tonight because Lake Wales has the skill guys to extend the secondary coverage. Hawkins plays the ball well and can line up across from the opponent’s top receiver.

DE Toris Young – When it’s 3rd down and medium (or longer), Lake Wales should consider to help the tackle with a chip block on this dude. Speed rusher with long arms. Will get a lot of work tonight vs. a very athletic Lake Wales QB.

Lake Wales

We know about some of the obvious guys like OL Luke Hiers, QB Xavier Gaines and RB Justin Henderson. But other Highlanders that we should pay close attention to tonight:

LB Leon Hawthorn – This LB has to play big tonight. Winter Haven pulls no punches about running the football. That’s what they are going to do and the defense better stop it. Hawthorn’s physical presence will be huge in the middle of the Highlander defense.

WR Stanley Smith – When we observed him in the spring, Smith was a contributor who showed flashes of big play ability. Lets see tonight.

DB Josh Dunn – One of our highest rated 2016 defensive backs. Bring on the footwork, toughness and football IQ. Dunn has played safety, corner and nickel back. As Winter Haven will run the ball and pull it in play action, Dunn will be a crucial part in run support and making plays on the ball in play action.

RB Earnest Hamilton – So dynamic and gets slightly over shadowed by Justin Henderson. Lightning in a bottle with a big impact in the return game.

LB Eddie Joseph – If you make a list of your favorite players in Polk, this dude needs serious consideration. If you appreciate effort, the sport and those who give it their all…Put this young man’s face on a t-shirt. Plays hard every single snap! Makes plays from every angle. He is a joy and fun to watch.

OL Ean Biancardi – Will be counted on to protect QB Xavier Gaines from the strong pass rush of the Blue Devils.