Week 1 of Central Florida high school football delivered some jaw-dropping performances! From dominant shutouts to nail-biting double-overtime thrillers, the Top 10 rankings have shifted. Who climbed, who held strong, and which teams are truly serious contenders for the 2025 season? You won’t believe some of the upsets!
Central Florida’s high school football scene ignited in Week 1, as teams delivered a clear message: the 2025 season promises intense competition and serious contenders. Impressive performances across the region have set a high bar, shaking up the initial Football Rankings and building anticipation for the upcoming Week 2 Matchups. The relentless pursuit of gridiron glory in Florida Sports has officially begun, captivating fans of High School Football throughout the state.
Holding firm at the pinnacle of the High School on SI Central Florida Football Top 10, Jones High School showcased undeniable supremacy. Their commanding 35-0 shutout victory over Winter Park in an Orange County clash solidified their No. 1 spot, extending an incredible 17-game regular-season winning streak that dates back to the 2023 campaign. Transfer phenom DJ Hicks powered the offense with two touchdowns, while Miami-bound quarterback Dereon Coleman demonstrated his dual-threat capabilities with both a rushing and a passing score.
Meanwhile, The First Academy of Orlando maintained its strong No. 2 position, despite a hard-fought 24-17 loss against national powerhouse Milton (Ga.). Their ability to challenge a top-tier program speaks volumes about their talent and determination, proving they are legitimate contenders in the Central Florida Football landscape. This performance underscores the high caliber of play present in the region’s High School Football.
Significant movement occurred further down the Football Rankings as Cocoa and Edgewater exchanged positions. Edgewater soared past Wekiva with a dominant 65-8 victory, showcasing an explosive offense and stout defense. Conversely, three-time defending state champion Cocoa found themselves in an unexpected struggle, barely escaping Merritt Island with a 30-24 double-overtime win. Javeon Scott’s decisive touchdown run in the second overtime secured the victory, but the narrow escape highlighted a challenging start for the Tigers.
The competition for regional dominance also saw Vero Beach and Eau Gallie trade spots following their thrilling season-opener. Vero Beach emerged victorious with a 41-31 win, fueled by Efrem White’s two rushing touchdowns and a passing score. However, star quarterback Champ Monds sustained an injury, creating a concern for the Indians. Eau Gallie, despite the loss, pushed the Class 7A Vero Beach to its limits, though they too suffered a setback with a knee injury to junior quarterback Joseph Allen.
Other notable Week 1 heroics included Lake Mary’s astonishing 30-29 comeback victory against Miami Norland, rallying from a 29-7 deficit. Senior quarterback and Notre Dame commit Noah Grubbs led the charge with 154 passing yards, three touchdowns, and a rushing score, orchestrating one of Central Florida Football’s most improbable wins. DeLand also impressed, with sophomore running back Taihj Moore leading them past traditional state power Madison County, 22-20, demonstrating the depth of talent across the Florida Sports landscape.
As teams prepare for Week 2 Matchups, several marquee games loom large for High School Football enthusiasts. Jones High School travels to Timber Creek, while Cocoa faces a formidable Central Florida Football Top 10 battle against Mainland. Lake Mary faces a stern test visiting Kissimmee Osceola in another Top 10 showdown. Vero Beach heads to Gainesville Buchholz, and Eau Gallie hosts Rockledge, promising more intense Florida Sports action as the season unfolds.
