University (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) at Central (Miami)
Sean White and Jordan Scarlett will lead University in its first meeting ever against Miami Central.
Photo by Del Mecum
The first meeting ever between two of South Florida's power programs. Friday's game pits a long-established program in Central against one that's certainly on the rise in University. Last season, University won the Class 3A state title in only its seventh season with a varsity team. This year, the Suns (9-1) are a contender for the 4A crown but would probably need to conquer the nation's No. 1 team – Washington (Miami) – to reach that goal. University's only loss was by four points at No. 15 Manatee (Bradenton) on Oct. 25. No. 7 Central has won six straight games – all by 17 or more points – since a Sept. 6 loss to top-ranked Washington. When the postseason begins next week, the Rockets (7-1) will be a prohibitive favorite to win a third 6A state crown in the last four seasons.
Just the facts: Central is renowned for having the nation's best 1-2 punch at running back. According to Miami Herald statistics, seniors
Dalvin Cook (a Florida commit) and
Joseph Yearby (Miami) are together averaging nearly 11 yards per carry and have combined for more than 2,400 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns in eight games. … University's offense is directed by senior quarterback
Sean White (an Auburn recruit).
Rated a four-star prospect by 247Sports, White was named MVP of the Elite 11 camp last summer. He has thrown 27 touchdown passes in 10 games.
Mitch Stephens: Central 42, University 21
Kevin Askeland: University 40, Central 35
Jamie DeMoney: Central 42, University 31
Stephen Spiewak: Central 35, University 21
Leland Gordon: Central 45, University 36
Colin Ward-Henninger: Central 35, University 28
