NEED TO KNOW: Mitchell, off to its best start, will try for another first with a win over Zephyrhills. The Mustangs have inched closer to victory each year and nearly pulled out last season's meeting, losing 21-18. Sophomore quarterback Sederrick Cunningham has provided a spark for the Bulldogs, leading them to consecutive wins after an 0-2 start. To keep that streak going, Cunningham will have to avoid throwing in the direction of Mitchell defensive back D.J. Crosby, who has six interceptions in his past three games.
FRANK PASTOR'S PICK: Mitchell
BOB PUTNAM'S PICK: Mitchell
STEVE LEE'S PICK: Mitchell
RIDGEWOOD (1-3) AT WESLEY CHAPEL (4-0)
WHERE: Wildcat Stadium
SERIES: Wesley Chapel leads 3-2.
NEED TO KNOW: Wesley Chapel coach John Castelamare downplays a return to the school he coached from 1985-96: "I'm (at Wesley Chapel), and it's been nice here." Nice as in a six-year mark of 39-18, compared to one winning season at Ridgewood. With quarterback Justin Pena and tailback Mike Galizia suspended, the Rams will rely on two freshmen, quarterback Charley Minichino and halfback David Williams. Wildcat running backs Nigel Bryant and Nick Carter are slowed by ankle injuries, and Bryant may sit. But there is plenty of backfield depth with Aaron Dickler and brothers Mario and Antonio Melvin.
