IMG Academy looks to bounce back from exhibition loss, while Miramar is riding high.
Video: (25) IMG Academy vs. Miramar - high school football preview
MaxPreps breaks down this titanic Florida matchup.Miramar (Fla.) at IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)Why
it's big: IMG Academy must prove that last week's 19-7 preseason scrimmage
loss to American Heritage (Plantation) was no reason to hit the panic
button. With more than 20 players on its roster holding FBS scholarship
offers, talent isn't a question mark for the Ascenders. But, since all
of its players transferred into the program, team chemistry and cohesion
might prove to be.
Miramar thumped American (Hialeah), 34-6, in
its kickoff classic scrimmage, unofficially opening its first season
with Pierre Senatus as head coach. The Patriots have the personnel – and
plenty of motivation – to factor in the race for the Class 8A title
race. In 2014, they were expelled from the state playoffs due to
improper benefits violations.
Names to watch: Including top-rated pro-style quarterback
Shea Patterson, five-star defensive end
Shavar Manuel and top-rated tight end
Isaac Nauta, IMG Academy has a remarkable five players ranked among the top one-third of 247Sports' Top 100 list for the Class of 2016.
Miramar
has less star power on its roster, but there are at least seven players
likely to sign with FBS colleges. Offensive lineman
Obinna Nwankwo (6-foot-3, 250 pounds) is committed to Tulane and defensive back
Korel Smith is headed to Florida Atlantic.
Photos by MaxPreps photographers / Graphic by Ryan Escobar
