High School Football Showdowns in Jacksonville

Jacksonville – The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) district competitions for high school football in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida kick off on Friday, September 12. With district champions automatically qualifying for the regionals, these games are critical for teams vying for a spot in the playoffs. Key matchups are set to shape the landscape of high school football in the area.

The season is proving challenging for Atlantic Coast (1-2), Creekside (0-3), and Sandalwood (0-3), all of which are struggling within their district. The game to watch in this context is Atlantic Coast at Creekside on October 10. Atlantic Coast secured its only win during Week 1 against Parker, while Creekside’s losses come against three undefeated teams currently at 3-0, underscoring their tough start. Sandalwood continues to face an uphill battle, currently in the midst of a disheartening 23-game losing streak and a point differential of -145, further complicating their prospects for recovery.

On the other end of the spectrum, Fletcher (3-0), Mandarin (3-0), Oakleaf (3-0), and First Coast (1-1) are establishing themselves as strong contenders within their district. A highlight matchup will be between Oakleaf and Mandarin on October 24, showcasing a robust array of receivers that could lead to electrifying performances throughout the season. With three undefeated teams in this group, excitement is in the air as they prepare for their upcoming contests.

Nease (3-0), Gainesville Buchholz (2-1), Tocoi Creek (2-1), and Bartram Trail (0-3) present a dynamic competition level in their district. A must-see game will be the matchup between Nease and Buchholz on September 26, as their previous encounter last year culminated in an overtime thriller. Each of these teams is determined to build on their early-season performance, especially Nease, which aims to maintain its perfect record.

In another fiercely competitive district, Middleburg (3-0) and Beachside (2-1) are currently leading the pack, with each team striving to secure favorable playoff positioning. An exciting game to look forward to is Ponte Vedra at Beachside on September 12, where teams with winning records will collide, setting the stage for playoff aspirations to take shape.

An anticipated clash looms between Columbia (3-0) and St. Augustine (3-0) on September 26. This matchup will feature Columbia’s strong defense—known as the Sons of the Tiger—squaring off against St. Augustine’s dynamic passing game, promising to be a highlight of the district season.

A competitive dynamic unfolds in the district consisting of White (2-0), Englewood (0-3), and Riverside (0-3). The game to highlight here is White at Riverside on October 24, where White stands out as the only winning team in this grouping. This matchup could be crucial for both Riverside and Englewood as they search for their first victories.

Turning to the Wakulla district, teams have struggled significantly, combining for only two wins overall. Uncertainty looms as Baker County travels to Wakulla on October 24, a game where both teams are desperate for success.

In a promising development, Yulee (3-0) and Raines (2-0) are having strong seasons. They will face off on October 24, with Raines bringing an impressive roster to the matchup, creating high expectations among fans.

An intriguing matchup features Bishop Kenny (2-0) against Menendez (1-2) on October 10. Bishop Kenny has shown solid performance so far this season, while Menendez aims to improve its standing amidst stiff competition.

In another potential playoff storyline, Baldwin (3-0) is set to meet Bolles (2-1) on September 26 in a matchup that promises significant implications for both teams. Despite their recent loss, Bolles remains a favored contender within their district.

Finally, Bradford (3-0) and Alachua Santa Fe (2-0) are both on the hunt for playoff success, with a key game scheduled against Newberry on October 10. Newberry, despite a rough start to the season, has previously claimed victory over Bradford, adding more layers to this upcoming assignment.

Episcopal (3-0) faces potential challenges from NFEI (1-1) and KIPP Bold City (0-3), with a highlight game against Trinity Christian on October 10. Episcopal has positioned itself favorably for playoff contention amid a tough schedule, while Impact Christian (3-0) will also face challenges against University Christian (2-1) on September 19, competing both for ranking and playoff positioning.