Written by: Drew Johnson (@RealNews102)
Miami Northwestern showcased its dominance, taking a 40–3 victory over Lakeland in the preseason Kickoff Classic—a game that offered both a statement and an early roadmap for both programs. Let’s break down more standout performances from both sides beyond 5 star Calvin Russell and Nicholas Lennear.
Miami Northwestern Standouts
Fresh Faces Making Noise
- 2028 QB Neimann Lawrence stepped onto the scene wave-making, elevating Miami Northwestern’s offense with his arm and playmaking ability. Senior Leon Strawder also look solid throwing the ball in the second half.
- Teddy Bridgewater, still connected to his alma mater, boosted team morale by Facetiming his former program before the game—adding emotional fuel to Northwestern’s electric performance .
Receiving Corps Beyond the Stars
Calvin Russell (5-star) and Nicholas Lennear were the headline grabbers, but the Unit overall looked explosive in spacing, stretching Lakeland’s defense which had things in check until about late second quarter.
Lakeland
Lakeland’s Offense
The Dreadnaughts’ offense struggled to escape their own mess. Penalties piled up—nearly 100 yards—and disrupted any attempts to build momentum. Beyond that, they couldn’t generate consistent rhythm in the run or pass games, turning what should’ve been a gradual climb to gain footing into a night spent fighting setbacks.
Despite the lopsided result, Lakeland still possesses flashes of talent. Cleaning up penalties and finding offensive consistency are early keys if they want to rebound into the 5A conversation this fall.
Lakeland
Malik Morris | LB (2026)
A Florida commit and one of the state’s premier athletes, Morris brings impact on both sides of the ball. When he’s fully healthy, Lakeland’s performance elevates—he’s a true two-way difference-maker.
Santana Harvey | EDGE (2027)
At 6-5 and 225 lbs, Harvey gives Lakeland a rising disruptor on the edge with length, burst, and frame to cause mismatch issues. One of Lakeland’s high-upside defenders this fall.
Jadarius Dobie | RB | 2026 | @_dxbie
A downhill runner with great vision and balance, Dobie showed flashes last fall and looks ready to take over. He runs with purpose, handles contact well, and can be the workhorse Lakeland leans on this year.
- Drew Sapp (DE, 2027): Held his own up front, showing power and flashes of what’s coming in the trenches.
•Jerry Thomas (WR, 2026): Used his 6-3 frame to win a couple contested catches and stretch the field.
- Jasper Hebel (DE/TE, 2026): Physical on defense and showed flashes as a blocker/target when lined up at TE.
- Ziggy Riley (LB/ATH): High-energy defender who flew to the ball and made his presence felt all night.
