On Friday night, Florida high school football powerhouses The First Academy and Lakeland will face off during the final full weekend of the regular season. This game has major implications regarding the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) first-ever Open Division bracket.

Preview

Who: The First Academy vs. Lakeland
When: Friday, Oct. 30 - 7:00 p.m. ET
Where: Bryant Stadium in Lakeland, FL

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The First Academy begins at their own 20.

The First Academy wins the coin toss and elects to receive.

Kickoff slated for 7:15 p.m. ET.

The First Academy Looking to Finish Strong

The First Academy (7-1) is having a strong 2026 season, with its one loss coming against IMG Academy a month ago. The Royals took last year's meeting against Lakeland in a double-overtime thriller.

The First Academy features plenty of talent on its roster, including freshman quarterback Anthony 'Deuce' Williams. The Royals also have a couple 4-star players like senior offensive lineman Reed Ramsier (Auburn commit) and sophomore defensive lineman JD Jackson. Other college commits on the team include cornerback Kamauri Whitfield (Florida), defensive lineman Jeau-Pierre Furtado (Bowling Green), safety Jaiziah Battle (USF), and punter Vance Fones (Florida State).

Lakeland Having Another Impressive Season

Meanwhile, Lakeland (8-1) has been a football powerhouse for so long, with nine Florida state championships to show. The one loss for the Dreadnaughts early in the season at home against Venice. Since that loss, they have gone on to win seven consecutive games.

Lakeland also has a lot of talent on the roster. Leading the offense is senior dual-threat quarterback Kelin Hendrix, who threw for 1,796 passing yards and 22 touchdowns in 2025. The Dreadnaughts' defensive line features senior and Clemson commit Santana Harvey, but Colorado pledge Drew Sapp has been out for the season due to an injury. Other college signees include cornerback Jordan Young (Pitt) and safety Deonte Fielder (Marshall).