The Booker (Sarasota, FL) varsity football team will host a home playoff game against Boca Ciega (Gulfport, FL) tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Booker High School. This matchup is part of the 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 3A FHSAA Football tournament.
Boca Ciega vs Booker High School Football Game Info:
What: Florida High School Football
Who: Boca Ciega vs Booker
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Time: 7:30pm.
Bracket: 2024 FHSAA Football State Championships – 3A FHSAA Football
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Boca Ciega vs Booker
The stage is set for an exciting 3A FHSAA Football State Championships playoff clash as the Booker Tornadoes (Sarasota, FL) welcome the Boca Ciega Pirates (Gulfport, FL) tonight at 7:30 p.m. Booker enters the matchup with a dominant 9-3 record, including a perfect 3-0 mark in district play, while Boca Ciega stands at 7-5 overall and 2-1 in their district.
A Recap of Their First Encounter
These two teams met earlier this season on October 25, with Booker securing a commanding 48-12 victory at home. The Tornadoes set the tone early, scoring 28 points in the first quarter and cruising to a conference win. Boca Ciega struggled to find rhythm against Booker’s defense, which has consistently limited opponents to an average of just 14.7 points per game this season.
Offensive Powerhouses
Booker boasts an explosive offense, averaging 51.3 points per game, led by quarterback Ryan Downes, who has tallied an impressive 255.8 passing yards per game. His favorite target, Tyren Wortham, adds firepower with 104.0 receiving yards per game, while running back DJ Johnson contributes on the ground with 112.9 rushing yards per game.
Boca Ciega’s offense also has key playmakers, including quarterback Dylan Nahra, averaging 190.6 passing yards per game, and wide receiver Walter Flounory, who records 71.6 receiving yards per game. Despite their potent attack, the Pirates will need to overcome Booker’s strong defense to stay competitive.
Defensive Matchup
Defensively, both teams have standout players. For Booker, Karaijus Hayes anchors the defense with 8.7 tackles per game, while Kevontay Hugan leads the pass rush with 1.4 sacks per game. Boca Ciega counters with Jatavious Gray, who also averages 8.7 tackles per game, and Dontaivious Nelson, who contributes 1.0 sacks per game.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced Gibbs and Bayshore this season, with similar outcomes. Booker made a statement with an 85-0 win over Gibbs and a 49-0 shutout of Bayshore, while Boca Ciega defeated Gibbs 42-10 and Bayshore 61-0. These results further highlight Booker’s edge in scoring efficiency and defensive dominance.
What’s at Stake
For Booker, maintaining their undefeated home record is crucial as they aim to extend their postseason run. Boca Ciega, coming off two playoff wins, will look to upset the higher-ranked Tornadoes and keep their championship hopes alive.
Prediction
Based on their previous meeting and current form, Booker enters the matchup as the clear favorite. However, Boca Ciega’s resilience and playmaking ability could make for an exciting game if they capitalize on opportunities.
Football fans can expect a thrilling contest as these teams battle for a spot in the next round of the 3A FHSAA Football State Championships tonight.
