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(6) Central Rockets (1-0) vs. (7) Booker T. Washington Tornadoes (1-0)
Thursday at Traz Powell Stadium, 7 p.m.
How did we get so lucky as to have a game like this in the second week of the season?
I’m not going to break my arm trying to pat myself on the back in saying that I told everyone that Central wasn’t going to go away silently into the night. The Rockets flexed their muscles in week one against Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna and put the rest of the state on notice about what they are bringing to the table.
Central impressed with its full stable of running backs. The Rockets are able to roll out as many as five different ball carriers – all of which are able to carry the load and make plays. Their depth at the position is so great, James Cook – who would be the headline running back just about anywhere else – was able to float around and line up as a receiver and defensive back.
Lexington Joseph, the younger brother of former North Miami standout quarterback Hilton Joseph, Willie Davis, Kijon Owens and freshman Amari Daniels all can tote the ball.
After losing to Plantation American Heritage in the preseason kickoff classic, Booker T. responded in week one by taking down Fort Lauderdale Dillard.
The Tornadoes are a passing team. And I say that not to state the obvious, but to question the perception of their offense. Watching Booker T. against American Heritage, I saw a team that couldn’t successfully run the ball. They couldn’t run the ball, but it also looked like they didn’t want to run the ball.
I could be wrong, but trying to establish the run game just didn’t seem like a priority to Booker T.
And that’s what I think will be their ultimate undoing in this game.
Chaminade wanted to run the ball on Central, but they literally couldn’t. Which meant the Rockets defense – mainly Rob Hicks – was able to pin their eyes back and just rush the passer.
I will concede that Central’s secondary showed some cracks during week one, and that plays to the Tornadoes’ strength – which could make this game closer than some people think.
Booker T. quarterback Daniel Richardson will make some tough throws and his receivers will make some big catches, but the pressure that Central will generate will be too great and the Rockets will be able to grind the game out with their running game.
Bald Prediction = Central wins 35-26
