Road to State: Notable Semi-Final Studs

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Timothy Cole | QB | 2024 | Raines | @spazzout__tj</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The leader under center for Raines has had a season for the books. In the semi-final, Cole delivered a masterclass, slinging dots all over the field. Already the single-season passing touchdown record holder, he'll look to cap off his incredible run with a state title.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kavon McKinney | DB | 2025 | Lakeland | @KavonMckinney</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This kid is a game-changer, plain and simple. McKinney made a momentum-shifting interception in the semi-final when Niceville was threatening to take a three-score lead. That play swung the tide and showcased why he's racked up an impressive 11 INTs in two varsity seasons. Colleges need to take notice—he's a star in the making.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kemarion Battles | RB | 2025 | Gadsden County | @kemarrionb2025</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A workhorse on the ground, Battles has been the consistent spark for Gadsden County's offense all playoffs. In the semi-final, he was once again the centerpiece, powering his team to their first state championship appearance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='828993' first='Johnny' last='Lewis Jr']. | QB | 2025 | Niceville | @JohnnyLewisJr16</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Facing Lakeland's feared defense at Bryant Stadium is no small task, but Lewis battled relentlessly. He surpassed 2,000 rushing yards on the season during the game and earned a Navy offer afterward. His dual-threat ability and fearless approach earned him plenty of respect, even in defeat.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1681897' first='Jayden' last='Lockhart'] | RB | 2027 | West Boca Raton | @Jaylock777</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A sophomore with ice in his veins, Lockhart led his team to a state championship berth. His 22 carries for 119 yards and a touchdown showcased maturity beyond his years. Expect this young star to keep shining.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Brunno Rues | K/P | 2025 | Venice | @ReusBrunno</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Special teams often go overlooked, but Rues was a difference-maker in Venice's semi-final. At one point, he nailed 4/4 field goals, including a crucial 45-yarder before halftime to give his team the lead. When the pressure was on, Rues delivered.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Maddox Hayles | LB | 2025 | Niceville | @maddoxhayles42</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the more dominant linebackers in his area, Hayles has been a tackling machine for Niceville. He demonstrated his high football IQ and physicality in the semi-final, proving he's more than ready for the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='833761' first='Nicholas' last='Teeter'] | WR | 2025 | Cocoa | @NicholasteeterN</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Teeter was everywhere in the semi-final, hauling in 11 receptions for 119 yards. A true possession receiver, his consistency and electric playstyle make him an ideal slot prospect for college programs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1258717' first='Parker' last='Perales'] | ATH | 2025 | Lake Mary | @parkerperalesfb</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With star RB Isaiah Thomas sidelined by injury, Perales stepped up in a big way these past two weeks. His two touchdowns helped seal Lake Mary's 24-13 win over Dr. Phillips and secured the Rams' first-ever state championship appearance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1322350' first='Kane' last='Lafortune'] | QB | 2024 | Niceville | @kane_lafortune</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lafortune wrapped up an outstanding career in the semi-final, leading his team to a 21-5 record over two seasons. With a 69% career completion rate, 3,400+ passing yards, and 34 total touchdowns, he leaves a legacy as one of Niceville's best.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->