SEASON OUTLOOK
Thor Miller and his teammates hope to raise their helmets to celebrate another state title.
Photo/Illustration by Marc Estrada
This is basically a pick ‘em between the team’s season opener at home against Class 8A finalist Miramar and a third-week matchup with Class 6A finalist Miami Central.
Question mark: Will Manatee’s linebackers evolve quickly enough to help the team live up to its billing? Will the team once again be able to endure a brutal playoff bracket?
Don't let Marquis Dawsey's jersey number fool you. He'sa defensive line standout.
Photo by Marc Estrada
Manatee should be far ahead of where Venice, Palmetto and other local teams are, at least to start the season. After the Miramar and Central games, we’ll have a much better feel for whether Manatee actually is the No. 1 team in Florida, let alone the nation. Manatee losing to either team would be an upset, but certainly not an unimaginable shock.
Overall outlook: Kinnan is accustomed to high expectations. His 1991 squad earned a preseason No. 1 national billing as well. However, that team lost its season opener and failed to capture a state title. This year’s squad will have to battle great expectations along with some daunting regular season games and a loaded playoff bracket. Winning a state title would be an outstanding accomplishment. Navigating its schedule undefeated and potentially finishing No. 1. would make it a magical season.
