When: Friday at 7:30pm
Where: Lyle Flagg Field in Seffner, Fl
TV: Channel 47 and HD 1147 (BHSN Xtra HD Channel 1197 in Central Florida)
Live streaming: Log onto bhsnlive.com to watch the game LIVE and on demand

Coaches:

  • Mark Latsko is in his 2nd season as Gainesville Head Coach with a 16-8 record.
  • Sean Callahan is in his 25th season as Armwood’s Head Coach with a 232-75 on field record.

 

Another postseason for Armwood presents another challenge to make it to the Citrus Bowl.
Last season, the Hawks were extremely young and simply happy to be in the 6A title game.
This season, Coach Callahan feels his team is more talented, more mature and expects to be
there in two weeks. There are not many superstars on this Hawks roster. Byron Cowart gets
the most attention, but is still looking for that dominating 3 sack, 5 TFL outing. Perhaps he is
saving his best for last?

What the Hawks do have is consistent performers like QB Noah Johnson, RB Caylan Holloway,
and LB Jordan Griffin. Each is steady and will perform in the clutch. Since the Plant loss in
the kickoff classic, the Hawks have dominated the competition winning 12 straight. Because
of their experience and playing at home, they should have a distinct advantage Friday.

Gainesville comes in with a modest 7-5 record but the Purple Hurricanes have played some of
Florida’s toughest teams like Tallahassee Lincoln High, Madison County and Buchholz. Gainesville
will not be intimidated coming into Lyle Flagg Field. Quarterback Caelan Christian is a tough player
who will stand in the pocket and deliver. He could cause some issues for the Armwood defense.
Also Demari Medley is a shifty running back who will be tough to slow down. The Gainesville defense
may be overpowered by Armwood’s running attack but if they can get an early lead and force the
Hawks to throw, they may be in good shape. Hawks should still win this game convincingly.

Things to know:

1.) Armwood’s defense has posted 8 shutouts this season

2.) Armwood should be happy this game is in Seffner. Gainesville has not lost a home playoff game since 1977!

3.) These teams have split their last two postseason meanings with Armwood winning 17-14 in 2011 and
Gainesville routing the Hawks 42-10 in 2012

4.) Gainesville High was established in 1900. Their last state championship was won in 1980.