Sickles spoiled what was supposed to be a festive homecoming night for Brandon High School. Brandon started the night off right when Tyler Clark returned the opening kick 90 yards for an Eagle touchdown; alas, this would be the last time Brandon would even sniff their end-zone until the end of the first half. The Gryphons defense overwhelmed the Eagles for most of the game and had numerous bone-crushing hits. Junior Justin Harris led the charge for Sickles with a couple of Sports Center worthy tackles.

The Gryphons offense was led by Sophomore Ray- Ray McCloud. McCloud has the build and speed of a future D-1 running back and will be a player to follow in the Tampa Bay area for years to come. On Sickles first offensive drive he accounted for 68 yards including a 40 yard touchdown run. Ray-Ray was like a tsunami crashing against and devastating the Brandon defense for most of the night. He would finish the night with over 150 rushing yard and 2 touchdowns.
Sickles Quarterback Nate Mills also looked very accurate throwing a 56 yard touchdown to Bilal Salat on Sickles second offensive position. The senior duo would hook up again in the third quarter for a 32 yard touchdown.

Brandon did get some offensive going in the second half led by Senior Fullback Cyrus Dooley and Junior Quarterback Brandon Jones but the Eagles were simply out-matched for most of the night. The final score would be 37-14.

– Anthony Peace