PALM BEACH COUNTY – Do we have a new No. 1 now?
It is getting tantalizingly close to a reality, as Cardinal Newman has been rolling as of late. With three straight wins in tow, the latest one came against upstart/then-No. 4 St. John Paul in a 25-12 triumph at home.
The Crusaders have multiple ways they can beat a team. Their passing game and running game can be equally effective when it matters the most, and they have several options in both aspects of their offense.
With that said, Cardinal Newman will stay at No. 2 this week for one key reason.
It has nothing to do with them and everything to do with American Heritage (Delray Beach), who was looking forward to play American Collegiate Academy at home this past Friday night (Oct. 9). But reportedly due to a bus breakdown on the way to Delray Beach, the road team could not make it in time for the game.
With that said, here is this week’s Top 5 and Close to 5.
1. American Heritage (Delray Beach) (1-1) [Last week: 1]
The Stallions cannot be punished due to a situation that was completely out of their control this past Friday night (Oct. 9) against American Collegiate Academy. This is primarily why they remain at No. 1 – for now at least.
2. Cardinal Newman (3-1) [Last week: 2]
The Crusaders have been playing like the No. 1 private school in Palm Beach County, as evidenced by their 25-12 home win over then then-No. 4 ranked St. John Paul II Eagles. They will have a clear shot at the No. 1 spot as early as next week.
3. King’s Academy (3–1) [Last week: 3]
The Lions enjoyed their bye in Week 5. They will be back in action for their Week 6 road matchup with Calvary Christian Academy (3-0) this upcoming Friday night (Oct. 16; 7 p.m. kickoff).
4. Jupiter Christian (3-1) [Last week: Not ranked]
The Eagles had their best all-around game in Week 5, which turned out to be a 66-0 win over Bell Creek Academy. It was the best possible way to showcase their faithful at home for the last time this season.
5. Boca Raton Christian (2-2) [Last week: Not ranked]
Blazers head coach Clay Shiver led his team to their most significant victory in school history last Friday night, a 28-19 road triumph over the Glades Day Gators. As a result, they are in our Top 5 for the first time.
Dropped from rankings: Former No. 4 St. John Paul II (2-2), Former No. 5 Glades Day (2-2)
Close to 5: Benjamin (1-1), Glades Day (2-2), St. John Paul II (2-2)
PHOTO CREDITS: Keith Forde
