By Ethan Jones
Polk County High School Football Preview Week 2
After an action-packed opening week of high school football across Polk County, teams now turn their attention to Week 2 with plenty still to prove. Some programs are looking to build on strong Week 1 performances, while others are searching for a bounce-back win after a tough start to the season. With rivalries, talented players, and important early-season matchups on the schedule, Week 2 is shaping up to bring another exciting Friday night of football to Polk County. With that being said, here are some of the games to keep an eye on this week.
Lake Gibson at Haines City
Starting off we have Lake Gibson at Haines City where Lake Gibson is trying to rebound after a 27-6 loss to Tampa Bay Tech and Haines City is coming off a close win to Indian Rocks Christian where they won 26-24. Heading into this game, both teams have something to prove. For Lake Gibson they are trying to put the last game behind them and turn the page as they look for their first win of the season. For Haines City, they are hoping to carry their momentum from the last game and move to 2-0.
The reason why this will be a good game to watch is because for both teams it will be an early test. For Lake Gibson, their schedule this season includes several tough and notable opponents, which is why it is crucial for them to get into the win column sooner rather than later. For Haines City, it will be a chance to display who they are in front of their fans in their first home game. When it comes to my prediction for this game, I have Lake Gibson coming out with the win. The reason why I have Lake Gibson winning this game is because of the pressure that they are able to put on opposing offenses as well as their passing attack which recorded 170 total passing yards against a talented Tampa Bay Tech team. Despite Haines City being at home, I don’t see them being able to get to 2-0.
Prediction: Lake Gibson 21, Haines City 10.
Discovery at George Jenkins
The next game I would keep an eye out for would have to be Discovery at George Jenkins. George Jenkins is coming off a dominant 33-7 win against Mulberry and is hoping to continue their momentum in their home opener against Discovery. For Discovery they are looking to rebound after a disappointing 43-0 loss against Cocoa beach. The reason why this will be a good game to watch is because currently both teams are trending in a different direction and it will be interesting to see if they continue to go on the same path that they are on or if it will change after this game, will Discovery respond from their rough start or will George Jenkins be able to capitalize off their momentum. When it comes to my prediction for this game, I have George Jenkins coming away with a dominant victory. The reason why I have George Jenkins winning this game is because of their dynamic and explosive offense as well as their advantage of being at home.
Prediction: George Jenkins 32, Discovery 7.
Ridge Community at Auburndale
Lastly, I would suggest keeping an eye out for Ridge Community at Auburndale. Auburndale is heading into their season opener as they did not face anyone in week 1 and are looking to give their fans something to cheer about as they start the season. As for their opponent Ridge Community they are looking to make up for their 28-0 loss to Sebring. The reason why this game will be a good game to watch is because it will be more likely than not an even playing field for both teams as they are looking to establish themselves and each looking for their first win. When it comes to my prediction, I have Auburndale winning a fairly close game. The reason why I have Auburndale winning this game is because they are playing at home, and I believe their defense will be able to make things difficult for Ridge Community. The Bolts are coming off a 21-0 loss to Sebring, so I expect them to come out looking to prove that Week 1 was not a reflection of what this team can do. Even with that being said, I think Auburndale will make enough plays on both sides of the ball to come away with the win. Overall, these week 2 games should be able to give us a better picture of where these teams are at and where they are heading as their seasons progresses.
Prediction: Auburndale 27, Ridge Community 17.
