(Photo/Olivia Widger - TheTribe561)
Article by Tyrell B:
The opening weekend of the FHSAA Football Playoffs in Boca Raton was exciting, with West Boca High taking on Steinbrenner from Lutz. Although Steinbrenner's successful onside kick momentarily stunned the audience, they were unable to capitalize and ended up going three and out on their first possession. With a running touchdown to start, West Boca's offense, headed by quarterback Mason Mallory, soon added another score when Trey Moran found Billy Clancy III. Before Steinbrenner scored on a screen ball to Jaydon Page shortly before halftime, West Boca increased their advantage to 21-0 with Mallory's second rushing touchdown. Steinbrenner found it difficult to convert their offensive drives into points.
Despite moments of life from Steinbrenner, including another successful onside kick, West Boca’s defense, anchored by Xavier Reed, shut down key drives. A late first-half touchdown by Mark Hanniford extended West Boca’s lead to 28-7 at halftime. The Bulls continued their dominance in the third quarter, with Jayden Lockhart adding a rushing touchdown and Mallory finding Jaydin Broadnax for another score, initiating a running clock. Steinbrenner’s offense could not recover, as West Boca’s defense consistently held firm, keeping the game out of reach.
With the outcome decided, West Boca gave underclassmen the opportunity to gain playoff experience in the fourth quarter. The game concluded with West Boca’s decisive 42-7 victory, securing their place in the next round of the playoffs. The Bulls now prepare for a high-stakes matchup against Mitchell School from New Port Richey, setting the stage for a clash between two undefeated teams next weekend at West Boca.