Glades Central getting ready to run onto field.
At the end of each season, Pahokee plays Glades Central in the annual Muck Bowl. The game played between the two rivals who are less then five miles apart was once again packed with excitement.
2011 Prospect Kelvin Benjamin
The game started with a touchdown from Glades Central’s Kelvin Benjamin who went 47-yards for a scoring reception. Pahokee’s Dejoshua Johnson answered with a 63-yard touchdown run.
The scoring continued and the half ended with Pahokee being up 21-20.
In the second half, visiting Glades Central shut down Pahokee and won decisively going away 47-21.
ESS takes a look at both programs. Our first look is at Glades Central. This is the 2nd time ESS has seen Glades Central play this year. Earlier this season we watched them play Palm Beach Dwyer. Although they won that contest by two touchdowns, they were outplayed for most of the game.
In comparison to that game the Glades Central offense has really come around. They are led by QB EJ Thomas who gives them a threat whether throwing or running the ball. He can break a defense down by keeping plays alive with his legs. That is exactly what he did against Pahokee.
MVP Greg Dent finished game with over 160 yards and 2 TDS.
When EJ was throwing the football, he had many options. University of Miami commit Greg Dent had over 180 yards and a touchdown. He also chipped in with a return of over 86 yards. There is no doubt that Dent’s stock has gone up more then any player in the state of Florida this season. Once a top 40 prospect in Florida, Dent has moved into the top 20.
Along with Dent, Kelvin Benjamin put on a show. The 2011 prospect impressed us with his top end speed and his ability to adjust to the ball when in the air. For a big receiver (6-foot-6,215-pounds), Benjamin showed great athleticism when he pulled away from a speedy Pahokee defense on 47-yards touchdown reception. Benjamin also showed great body control with an outstanding reception near the sideline in the 2nd half. He has come a long way from the receiver we saw at the UCF camp two years ago. WR Demetrius Evans also showed flashes. This group of receivers are among the best in Florida this season.
On the defensive side of the football there were some playmakers for Glades Central. Offensive star Dent played equally well as a safety. He was in on a few pass break ups. DB Gregory Allen had an interception which stalled a Pahokee drive. Linebacker Michael Smith had great penetration and was in the backfield on several plays.
Other prospects that deserve recognition were Travis Bell (West Virginia Commit), DB Tavares Crawford (2010), Antwan Chilshom-(Mississippi State Commit), QB Leron Thomas, Clive Walford-(Miami Commit), Robert Way-(2011) and OL Chris Camacho (2010).
Dejoshua Johnson and Morril Noel with teammates waiting for coin toss.
For the Pahokee Blue Devils the game did not end the way they hoped. In the 2nd half their offense was stifled by the Glades Central defense. When offensive star WR Chris Dunkley went down with an injury, Pahokee’s offensive game plan changed. Without Dunkley they were forced to move quarterback DeJoshua Johnson to receiver. Their only other weapons on offense were Morrill Noel and Fred Pickett and they were worn down by playing both sides of the football.
Dejoshua made his presence felt in the first half with his long touchdown run while he was lined up at quarterback. Noel also chipped in with an 83 yard touchdown. But in the 2nd half, the big plays were eliminated.
Others to keep an eye on: Antonio Ford-The talented two ways standout played well on both sides of the football. Zach Allen (Wake Forest Commit) is also another prospect we continue to be impressed with.
Final Thoughts: Once again this game had as much talent in one game as many football fans will see all season. Glades Central proved they are one of the best teams in Florida. They will be tough to beat. ESS expects them to make it all the way to the state finals. Their offensive stars Dent, Evans, Chilshom, Thomas, Benjamin and Walford will cause major miss-matches for opposing defenses.
For Pahokee they should be able to get over this loss and still make a run at another state final. This is an experienced Pahokee team and a program that has won 5 of the last 6 state titles. With DeJoshua Johnson and Morill Noel there will not be many teams that can hang with Pahokee’s team speed. The issue for Pahokee is will Chris Dunkley return. His loss could really hurt them.
Their toughest opponent will be in week one when they face Chaminade. The Lions are back in the playoffs for the first time in a few seasons. This is by far the Lions top team since losing to Clewiston in the state semi-finals several years ago. If Pahokee can get by Chaminade, they should once again end up in Orlando playing for a title.
