South Florida- Earlier today (December 29) we were on site for the 2025 Goodyear Cotton Bowl Media Day featuring the #2 Ohio State Buckeyes and the #10 Miami Hurricanes at AT&T Stadium.
While this afternoon definitely served as a media circus, it also served as a semi-reunion for some of the finest athletes to hail from South Florida. Across both sidelines- there will be a total of 37 South Florida native players competing in the 2025 Cotton Bowl. *Spanning from the Treasure Coasts to Miami Dade County*.
Before taking their talents to premier National programs, the majority of these athletes once dominated the high school level at the State of Florida’s bluest blood teams including Chaminade-Madonna, American Heritage (Plantation), Miami Central, Christopher Columbus High and Vero Beach.
During today’s media availabilities, I had the opportunity to catch up with the Sunshine State’s finest and reflect on what it means to each athlete to be on this stage surrounded by so many familiar faces.
“The Crib produces legends. I’m one of the few that’s able to do this at this level on this stage- so it’s just a blessing to be here…..Nothing is given, everything is earned.” Miami RB Mark Fletcher Jr. stated
“It feels really great! I’ve went against these guys my whole life, just on a bigger stage now.” Ohio State WR Brandon Inniss stated “I’m really excited, it’s going to be a great opportunity that I plan to take advantage of. American Heritage produces great players year in and year out. Miami’s got a lot of guys from Heritage so it’s exciting to go against them.”
“These are the game’s I’ve dreamed of- to play on the biggest stage…It’s truly special to be able to see guys I’ve grown with. It’s something we’re all going to look back on in 10+ years and remember” Ohio State WR Jeremiah Smith said with a grin.
“It’s the opportunity of a lifetime being here! It feels great, everyone gets to eat. We all played for the same 7on7 teams or the same little leagues now we’re on the biggest stage. We’re blessed!” Miami DB OJ Frederique happily proclaimed.
“It’s very exciting, very amazing. This is something we can’t take for granted, being able to play with them boys.” Miami WR Joshisa Trader told.
“It’s going to be fun seeing them and facing off against them. Playing against them is the best competition, so I’m always excited.” Miami DB Bryce Fitzgerald said.
We’re officially two days away from the 2025 Cotton Bowl, and as you can see- South Florida’s finest are ready to put on a show.
