The road to Orlando is underway and teams in the lower classifications (1A-4A) will be vying for the right to be called a part of the final four this week–while the big classes (5A-8A) are seeking out their “elite eight” from the four respective classifications. In this quick-hitter, we breakdown who we feel may have the “easiest” trip to Orlando–and we use that term “easy” EXTREMELY loose since nothing comes easy this time of year. But if we had to–and we did–here’s who we think could make it Orlando without as much trial and tribulation as some of the other teams.

#1: Armwood – NO disrespect to Brandon, [looking at this from the District Champ angle] but let’s assume (not making a prediction) that Armwood gets the victory in this rematch. The Hawks would be on the road if Ocala Vanguard wins their rematch with Gainesville, but would host if the Purple Hurricanes pull of the upset. This season, Region 2 are the designated hosts in Class 6A therefore no trips to the Panhandle for Armwood this season. The remaining four teams that could potentially stand in the way are Pine Forest, Tate, Choctawhatchee and Niceville.

#2: Jesuit – Again, NO disrespect to Jefferson, [looking at this from the District Champ angle] but let’s assume (not making a prediction) the Tigers win the rematch and remain undefeated. Regardless of who wins out of Dunbar and Immokalee in their 6A-12 rematch, Jesuit would host. Also regardless of the runners-up/champions status in the State Semifinals round–Region 3 is a designated host in Class 5A. All that “remains” in Region 4 are Bishop Moore, Merritt Island, Hallandale and American Heritage-Plantation. It may not seem so easy–but the roll the Tigers are on and potentially not having to leave Hillsborough County is a juicy proposition.

#3: Clearwater Central Catholic – The Marauders are fully capable of handling their rematch (albeit NOT a district one) against John Carroll Catholic this week. Although they would have to travel next week to either West Palm Beach to face Oxbridge Academy or Delray Beach to face American Heritage in the 3A State Semis since Regions 2 and 4 are your designated hosts–we like CCC’s chances nonetheless.