Welcome back to Daily Orlando News! As autumn kicks off, high school football fever is alive and well in Central Florida. Week 3 brought a flurry of thrilling matchups and standout performances across Orange, Seminole, and Volusia counties. Whether you couldn’t make it to the games or just want to relive the action, we’ve got you covered with the top highlights, major upsets, and local impact for Orlando and its neighboring communities.
Orange County: Rivalries and Rising Stars
Orlando-area teams in Orange County turned in some of the most exciting games this week. The much-anticipated showdown between Dr. Phillips and Edgewater lived up to the hype, with Edgewater clinching a narrow 28-24 victory thanks to a late-game touchdown by running back Jamari Smith. The game drew a packed house, and Orlando fans were treated to a true nail-biter under the Friday night lights.
Meanwhile, Jones High continued their winning streak, overpowering Oak Ridge 35-14. Quarterback Malik Sanders threw for three touchdowns and added another on the ground, cementing his reputation as one of Orlando’s most dynamic young athletes this season. The Tigers’ defense also shined, holding Oak Ridge to just two scores and forcing two turnovers.
Elsewhere in the county, Boone and Colonial put on a show with Boone coming out on top 31-27. The win keeps Boone in strong contention as district play approaches, and Orlando football fans are already buzzing about their playoff potential.
Seminole County: Breakout Performances and Tight Contests
Seminole County teams showed resilience and talent in Week 3. Seminole High, ranked among the state’s top teams, remained undefeated after a hard-fought 21-17 win over Lake Mary. Defensive back Anthony Torres sealed the victory with a crucial interception late in the fourth quarter, sending Sanford fans home happy and keeping pressure on Orlando-area rivals.
Lyman High School made headlines with their first win of the season, defeating Winter Springs 28-14. Sophomore running back Caleb Johnson ran for over 150 yards and two touchdowns, giving Lyman fans hope for a turnaround season. Both teams showed flashes of brilliance, and their young rosters promise exciting matchups ahead for Seminole County and Orlando spectators alike.
Oviedo and Hagerty also faced off in a classic cross-town rivalry, with Oviedo edging out Hagerty 24-21 on a last-second field goal. The atmosphere was electric, and the result only adds fuel to the friendly but fierce competition in the greater Orlando region.
Volusia County: Surprises and Standouts
Over in Volusia County, the DeLand Bulldogs delivered a statement win, routing Mainland 42-21. Quarterback Tyler James accounted for five touchdowns, three through the air and two on the ground, sparking celebrations among DeLand supporters. This performance puts the Bulldogs on the map as a team to watch, with important games against Orlando-area schools still to come.
Spruce Creek bounced back from a Week 2 loss with a dominant 34-7 victory over Seabreeze. Their defense forced four turnovers and returned an interception for a touchdown, showcasing the team’s depth and ability to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes. As Volusia teams continue to square off against their Orange and Seminole county counterparts, these results set the stage for more dramatic showdowns this season.
Deltona also made waves with a thrilling 27-26 win over Atlantic, pulling off a two-point conversion in the closing minutes. The excitement extended beyond the field, as fans from both sides praised the sportsmanship and competitive spirit on display.
Orlando’s Impact and Community Spirit
Week 3 action in Central Florida high school football not only highlighted elite athletic talent but also showcased the powerful community spirit that defines Orlando and its surrounding areas. Stadiums across Orange, Seminole, and Volusia counties were packed with students, families, alumni, and local residents, all rallying behind their teams. In many cases, Orlando’s schools served as hubs for these gatherings, reinforcing the city’s role as a center for youth sports and neighborhood pride.
Local businesses in Orlando reported a boost on game nights, with restaurants and shops near stadiums seeing increased foot traffic. The economic impact of high school football goes beyond the scoreboard, helping to support jobs and foster a sense of unity across the city. As the season progresses, Orlando’s influence on the high school football landscape remains as strong as ever, with local athletes earning college attention and raising the profile of Central Florida prep sports.
Fans and parents are also taking to social media to share highlights, photos, and words of encouragement, contributing to the positive buzz surrounding high school football in Orlando and beyond.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Central Florida Football?
With Week 3 in the books, teams across Orange, Seminole, and Volusia counties are gearing up for crucial district matchups that will shape the rest of the season. Orlando-area teams like Edgewater, Jones, and Boone look poised to make deep playoff runs, while schools in Seminole and Volusia counties are eager to prove themselves against tough competition.
Next week’s schedule features several must-watch games, including Edgewater vs. Boone and Seminole vs. Oviedo. These contests promise more high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments for players and fans alike. Be sure to check back with <a href="https://www.dailyorlandonews.com
