The game of all games has arrived. The rivalry that runs deeper than the roots of sugar cane in the rich soil of Belle Glade. A tradition unlike any other. The Muck Bowl. There is nothing and I mean nothing quite like it in the State of Florida.
Divided by a 10 minute drive down State Road 715, Pahokee and Glades Central have forged a rivalry that many call the greatest high school football rivalry in the country. Some of the most outstanding legends of the game we love, both at the collegiate level and the professional level, got their beginning thrust into stardom via this game. NFL legends like Fred Taylor, Anquan Boldin, Janoris Jenkins, Kelvin Benjamin, Austin Simmons and Hardley Gilmore are just some of the brightest stars that once shined under these lights.
Tonight, the Glades Central Raiders and the Pahokee Blue Devils squared off in the 61st edition of this annual rivalry, and like most years- it surely didn’t disappoint. Muck City football has returned to glory, as the Raiders entered tonight 8-1, while the Blue Devils stood at 7-2. As this season’s dragged on, anticipation for the Bowl only grew because the pride’s of the Glades proved themselves as two of the top five teams in Palm Beach County.
Literally straight after the run outs, both teams were in each other’s faces- letting each other know this was going to be a good night of football.
Early in the contest, both sidelines established the defensive fortitude that would carry over throughout the evening. In a duel that features two of South Florida’s most lethal rushing attacks, the front seven’s had to be on their A-game to eliminate any chance of an explosive run. Pahokee EDGE Antonio Simpson and Glades Central EDGE Sauvernson Paul put on a clinic, stifling ANY chance of a double digit yard carry. It was clear that neutralizing the run was the top game plan for both defenses.
Some may have called it underwhelming offense, but I prefer the phrase defensive execution.
Glades Central found themselves with prime opportunities to make things happen in the air. Raiders’ QB Taj Barnes was on fire tonight, tossing for two passing scores and while extending plays with his legs. Barnes did an excellent job dishing to his elite arsenal of young pass catchers as Algernod Crawford (’29) came away with a few grabs, while Madreion Blackmon (’29) would secure a score.
Following the two Glades scores, defense went back to the max, as the Raiders came away with two interceptions on the night, one from Caleb Knight moments before halftime and the other from Jaylin Boyle midway through the 4th quarter.
Glades Central capped the night off in the way they’re definitely most proud of- a goal line stand. Despite the close quarters, the Raiders’ D was swarming into the backfield, neutralizing any hope for last second points from the Blue Devils.
Following the win, I caught up with Taj Barnes who had this to say about his performance:
“Big kudos to my team for coming together tonight…. We just came out here and handled business. Once again, big kudos to my o-line and receivers for making plays all night.” Barnes stated. “We’re humble with alot more to play for. We’ve got two trophies down (District Title, Muck Bowl) and we’re looking to add one more.”
Barnes would go onto add what it means to him to leave the legacy on this game the way he did, joining the legends of the Muck Bowl:
“It feels great! I’m a kid that grew up in Belle Glade, Florida- born and raised. It feels great to leave a legacy on the history of this game.”
Glades Central now finishes the season 9-1, with a bid to the 2025 post season secured. The Raiders will find out who their opponent in the first round of the FHSAA Playoffs will be on Thursday, November 6th.
