A Really Big Game

Friends,

Some friends, my son and I had the opportunity to attend a football game last evening matching the #1 5A football team in the nation, Abilene High Eagles, and the #2 ranked Plant (FL) Panthers. One of my buddies graduated from Abilene High and thought it would be fun to go take in this nationally televised game (on ESPNU). I am happy to say that the game was worth every cent. Abilene was down 17-7 with a couple of minutes left in the first half, but after a long kickoff return, were able to score in one 5 tackle-breaking play by one strong wide receiver. The Eagles simply controlled the ball the second half and came from behind for a 27-17 win. An couple of interesting side notes -- Plant had won 18 games in a row, including rolling through the playoffs to the FL 5A state championship last season...but, lightning quick Eagles QB, Ronnell Sims, stole the show with 161 yards on 11 carries to put an end to that winning streak. He practically, single-handedly controlled the game...and he was fun to watch. On the Panthers side was James Wilder Jr...yes, he of that James Wilder, the former running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions in the 1980s. Needless to say, the 6'2", 220 lb bruiser's talent was apparent...and he is slated to go play running back at the University of Georgia. There are probably not going to be too many opportunities to watch that kind of high school talent, but it was fun to go for this one time. It was just a glorious day and sporting event...and I would do it again in a moment. :-)

Blessings,
Don