The 2015 season is no longer a dream, but a reality. The games are just around the corner and yesterday we gave you ten games that set the tone when it comes to primetime match-ups for week zero. If you somehow can’t make it to any of the ten games listed yesterday, then here are four more games that could provide just as much “value” as those mentioned initially.
Wharton vs. Lennard
Things are The Longhorns will travel from Ruskin up to New Tampa to face a Wildcats squad in a game that’s got plenty of potential. Lennard comes off a fantastic 2014 campaign in which they turned heads going from 1-9 in 2013 to 7-3 last season. They’ll return studs on both sides of the ball that will test the 14 starters that the Wildcats bring back from a 4-6 season with plenty of potential themselves. This game will be fun to watch if you’re a fan of the big boys in the trenches, too.
Wiregrass Ranch vs. Nature Coast Tech
The Bulls host the Sharks in a very intriguing match-up featuring offenses that will put up points this season.
Mark Kantor is in his first season at Wiregrass and already has the Bulls going in the right direction while NCT’s Justin Worden is in his second season at the helm and has his team poised for a district championship run in 2015. If you’re in the area on Thursday the 20th, then we suggest you head over Wiregrass for this tilt.
Robinson vs. Pinellas Park
This one should be labeled the “Blue Collar Bowl” as both these squads bring an authentic “hard-hat and lunchpail” mentality under the guidance of their respective coaching staffs. The Knights will have options of the offensive side of the ball, but must contend with a Patriots squad that knows how to run the ball effectively year-in/out under Kenny Crawford’s leadership regardless of who’s lined-up in the backfield. Although a high-scoring game isn’t likely between these two, you can expect to see some old-school-ground-and-pound possession, hard-hitting defense and a great Port Tampa atmosphere.
Hillsborough vs. East Bay
The Terriers will host the Indians in what’s arguably the best game on this list. Hillsborough has questions on offense (albeit temporary) with the departure of Dwayne Lawson, but could potentially have one of the best defenses in the county and region if the guys we’ve seen this offseason keep their momentum in pads. East Bay is loaded with talent and should better their 4-win total from last season even if they’re located in the regions’ toughest district in all classes. The Indians are a run-heavy team to say the least and Hillsborough’s biggest strength this season may be specifically run defense, so something’s gotta give.