High school football playoff preview: Manatee
Manatee (7-3) at Orlando Dr. Phillips (8-2)
When: 7:30 p.m.
On air: WLSS 930 AM/103.1 FM
Online: NFHSNetwork.com
The scoop: Manatee plays a rubber match with Dr. Phillips after eliminating the Panthers in the Class 8A-Region 2 semifinals two years ago and being eliminated by them last fall. ... Dr. Phillips’ strengths begin with its front seven. Linebackers Dylan Meeks and Nick Smith, and defensive end Robert Porcher IV are three-star prospects, according to 247sports.com’s composite rankings. ... Offensively the Panthers are run heavy with running back D.J. Charles, but dual-threat quarterback Marvin Washington, and wide receivers Emare Hogan and Jernard Phillips give Dr. Phillips an added dimension. ... The Hurricanes’ defense continues to struggle, allowing an average of 337.3 yards and 26.8 points per game, so the Canes could need another some strong performances from quarterback A.J. Colagiovanni and wide receiver Tarique Milton, who lead Manatee County in passing and receiving yards, respectively.
Prediction: Dr. Phillips 41, Manatee 36
David Wilson: 941-745-7057, @DBWilson2
This story was originally published November 10, 2016 at 4:08 PM with the headline "High school football playoff preview: Manatee."