The Gainesville Hurricanes defeated New Port Richey Mitchell 42-21 last week in regional quarterfinals. Gainesville (7-4) looks to win back-to-back playoff games on the road for the first time in school history as they head to Ocala Friday night to play Vanguard (9-2).
The District 5 rivals are squaring off for the second time this season. Vanguard essentially clinched the district title after their 43-17 win against Gainesville on Oct. 15.
Vanguard defeated Land O’ Lakes Sunlake 40-12 last week. This season Vanguard QB N’kosi Perry racked up 2,309 passing yards and 32 touchdowns. Gainesville Head Coach Mark Latsko believes his defense needs to be ready when Perry is moving.
GHS QB Caelan Christian has 2,000 passing yards and earned 350 yards against Mitchell. Christian was not playing in the rivalry game earlier this season as he was serving a suspension for unsportsmanlike conduct following the loss to Buchholz the week prior.
Gainesville has four starters who did not play during the Hurricane’s regular season loss to Vanguard. Latsko believes this game will come down to who wants it more. Perry had two strong games against both Buchholz and GHS. Latsko says Perry is a strong athlete and intimidating.
A Vanguard win over GHS will give the Knights two straight home playoff wins for the first time since 1994 and would give them the chance to host their next opponent. A Gainesville win over Vanguards give the Hurricanes a chance to host Brandon or travel to Seffner Armwood in the regional finals on Nov. 27.