Tampa Bay Playoff Contenders Series: Clearwater Central Catholic
As we continue this series, we’re going to continue looking at Tampa Bay Area teams that are knocking on the door for the state playoffs. Some of these teams fell just short of making the playoffs and others are a constant participant, but with the ball bouncing the right way this year and improvement in key areas, these teams all have the potential to make the state playoffs in Florida.
Clearwater Central Catholic is one of the Premier teams in the Bay area, they are led by head coach Chris Harvey who is 42-8 and has won three regional titles since taking over as head coach. Coach Harvey led CCC to the state semifinals where they eventually lost to the 3A state champions Chaminade Madonna. CCC is one of the top teams in Florida 3A and always boasts a roster full of college prospects and unbelievably good coaching staff.
I reached out to Coach Harvey about the upcoming 2020 season and his outlook on his team. This is what he had to say:
“After losing 20 seniors from the 2019 season we look for what could be our youngest team in recent history to be what could be one of our most athletic. Lead by only 5, 2021 seniors, this team has the ability to spread the ball around to a plethora of speedy skill players. On the defensive side, this same athleticism will allow us to run around and make plays. Offensively, 2021 WR Jarquez Green should show to be one of the most explosive players in the area. Great route runner and incredible top-end speed make him a lethal weapon.
On the defensive side look for 2021 DB Johntavious Davis-Bonner to use his length and speed to make a lot of plays. He could be the best pure corner we have ever had if he keeps working. Physicality on the defensive ball will mimic the play of our 2021 LB Kevary Jenkins who is the leading returning tackler from last year. An OLB a year ago, this year Kevary may see a lot of time at MLB which should allow him to make plays all over the field.
We like it when people doubt us. Losing 20 seniors would demolish the hopes of most programs our size. We’re not most programs!!”
THE MARAUDERS DOSSIER
SCHOOL: Clearwater Central Catholic
HEAD COACH: Chris Harvey
2019 RECORD: 10-4
CLASSIFICATION: 3A Region 3
TEAM COLORS: Scarlet, Gold
Key Players:
Jarquez Green WR– He played in Eight Games last year and had a major impact on every one of them for a team that went to the state playoffs. He also doubles as a cornerback. He has a tall but slight frame, he’s extremely explosive with the ball in his hands and is capable of turning short swing passes into long touchdowns. Does a great job of tracking the ball in the air. Shows run after the catch ability and is able to break arm tackles.
Johntavious Davis-Bonner CB– Bonner is one of the best cornerback prospects in the Bay Area and possesses Power 5 measurables that coaches covet as a 6-2 corner! He has a lot of versatility to his game he plays wide receiver, as well as returns kicks. He has fluid footwork that allows him to flip his hips and run with receivers, also is a willing tackler that isn’t afraid to come up against the run and stick his nose in there.
Kevary Jenkins LB– Jenkins is one of the top returning players on their defense, his game is speed and instincts, he had 47 tackles last year and he should double that output with Coach Harvey moving him to a middle linebacker, he has really good instincts and bring speed to power to consistently to lay a pop on the ball carrier, he has a tremendous closing burst, hustle, and is very physical showing no hesitation to hit the ball carrier.
You Can Contact Shannon Jordan with a prospect or team information on Twitter @in_huddle or shannon.jordan.ib@gmail.com