PAHOKEE – One of the most storied high school football rivalries is upon us once again.
The Muck Bowl, an annual showdown between Pahokee and Glades Central, is typically filled way past stadium capacity with 5,000 fans or better each year.
Last year’s Muck Bowl didn’t disappoint as Pahokee took down Glades Central in a 33-27 overtime victory. It was the first overtime ever recorded in Muck Bowl history.
Both teams were ranked in our Top 10 last year, with Pahokee sitting at No. 3 and Glades Central at No. 5. This year, Pahokee sits at No. 7 and Glades Central is one spot ahead at No. 6.
This year should be another thriller as both squads look to be pretty even in some respects.
The Blue Devils (5-4) have been a hard team to figure out this year, as they’ve been up and down for a good portion of the season.
After a three-game winning streak with wins over Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Park, Pahokee is now on a two-game losing streak after losses to Seminole Ridge (total surprise) and then a respectable 35-14 loss to Cocoa last week.
Obstacles have been placed in front of the Blue Devils throughout much of the year, which have been attrition and losing impact players from their lineup.
Pahokee isn’t a team to make excuses at all, and this squad has enough talent to compete with anyone in the county. Quarterback Jaeze Tracey, athlete Leroy Love, athlete Deante Nelson, running back/linebacker Lavonski Williams, and defensive end Latarie Kinsler are all impact players with big play capability.
Pahokee has more playmakers than the ones name, so don’t be surprised if unfamiliar names make an impact.
Glades Central (6-3) had a very tough schedule early on. But this team has seemed to be reaping the benefits of it now by dominating lesser opponents down the stretch.
The Raiders are currently riding a four-game winning streak ahead of the Muck Bowl after taking down Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, American Heritage (Delray), and Cardinal Newman. Their last three wins have been at home, so it will be interesting to see how they react in being “on the road” this week.
Quarterback Davius Richard has been consistent lately and has the offense gelling at the right time. Richard has a plethora of playmakers in Ja’vonte Willams, the lengthy Desna Washington, the sure-handed Odieu Hilaire, and the speedy Jymetre Hester.
EJ Jackson, Lamarcus McKay, and Elie Fils-Aime are on the defensive side of the ball that can strike at any given time and make an impact play.
A victory in the Muck Bowl is a very big deal. Things should be interesting as Pahokee will look to avoid another loss (especially at home), while Glades Central will look to finish the season on a five-game winning streak and coast into the Class 4A playoffs.
The Muck Bowl will take place in Pahokee at Anquan Boldin Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 3, at 5 p.m.
