Written by: Coach Rob (@Kaufmanrobert)
The first-round matchup between the back-to-back-to-back champion Cocoa Tigers (@CocoaFootball, 5–4) and the Newberry Panthers (@recruittheN, 5–5) opened the FHSAA (@FHSAA) 2A state playoffs with plenty of early intensity. Both teams traded punts on the opening drives, but it was clear immediately that Newberry RB Kaleb Woods was going to be a problem all night.
Cocoa struck first on their second possession when RB Javeon Scott powered in a touchdown. Newberry, again leaning heavily on Woods, attempted to settle in offensively, but penalties repeatedly stalled their momentum, a theme that would follow them all game.
The Tigers extended the lead on their third drive when QB Champ Smith dropped a beautiful pass to WR Jayden Maul, stretching it to 14–0. Newberry finally broke through after a botched Cocoa special-teams play placed them on the goal line. QB Kobe Johnson dropped in a clean back-shoulder fade to Javeon Long to cut the deficit to 14–6 after a failed PAT.
What happened next shifted the entire tone. With the first half winding down, Cocoa leaned into championship-level play calling from offensive coordinator Adam Franco. Newberry’s defense actually found a strong rhythm, forcing tough situations for the Tigers , but a major turning point came when a Newberry interception was erased by a roughing-the-passer penalty, gifting Cocoa a fresh set of downs and great field position. Moments later, Smith hit WR Cayman Varis for a late touchdown, sending Cocoa into halftime with momentum firmly in their corner.
Newberry’s penalties were drive-killers and drive-extenders. Cocoa’s mental toughness led by QB Champ Smith kept them steady. Woods’ physical running gave Newberry chances, but the Panthers couldn’t capitalize due to untimely mistakes.
Coming out of halftime, Newberry’s defense delivered again, and their offense tightened the game when #11 Kobe Johnson connected with #4 Hayden Moore to make it a one-possession contest. But champions respond and Cocoa did. WR Tank White hauled in a score to re-extend the lead, and on the next possession Gator commit CJ Hester jumped a route for a huge interception. Smith turned that mistake into his fourth touchdown pass, this one to Zay Hawkins, closing the door for good.
Cocoa went on to win 42–13.
Newberry should hold their heads high — they put together a strong season. But in this matchup, the penalties were simply too costly. Against a defending champion, you want to enter the fourth quarter in a one-possession battle. They were close to that multiple times, but the mistakes piled up.
For Cocoa, there’s still some cleaning up to do if they want another deep playoff run, but they showed resilience and poise. Both coordinators put their units in winning situations Franco kept his offensive identity even under pressure, and the defensive staff dialed up timely blitzes that kept Newberry off balance.
Up next for Cocoa is a matchup with Calvary Christian, who advanced with a 34–30 win. It’s shaping up to be an exciting game — one I’m definitely looking forward to watching.
#4 Kaleb Woods @Thekalebwoods| RB | c/o 2026 | 6’0” | 190 lbs.
A tough and patient runner who seems to get stronger as the game goes on. Excellent vision and contact balance. Has dependable hands and a competitive motor that fits any scheme. A true workhorse RB, volume runner. Short area quickness, one-cut ability, jump cut control. Runs behind pads, with great yards after contact. Great finisher that can handle 20-20 touches without a drop-off. Was a pleasure to watch.
#72 Je’Kai Dawson @JeKaiDawson | OT | c/o 2026 | 6’3” | 280
Long, athletic, smooth in pass pro and finishes in the run game. Strong grip once he clamps and stays attached. High ceiling and all the tools to be a multi-year starter at Bethune-Cookman
#9 Javeon Long @JayLong_1 | WR | c/o 2028 | 6’0” | 170
A young WR with advanced size, natural ball skills and competitive that shows up when the ball is in the air and in the run game. Great frame and flashes “jump ball” ability. High ceiling as an outside WR who can win one-on-ones, stretch the field, and impact games. A name to circle for the upcoming years.
#1 CJ Hester @CliftonHester14 | CB | c/o 2026 | 6’2”
A long, explosive corner with elite athleticism and versatility. Can play pressman, off man or pattern match concepts. Has competitive edge and top end movement skills. Scheme versatile, confident, and carrying the frame and instincts of a future high level starter in Gainesville.
#13 Champ Smith @champsmithqb | QB | c/o 2027 | 6’2”
High ceiling QB. Plays the position with poise, competitive toughness, and an ability to steady an offense. Looks to be someone who embraces adversity and performs his best when his team needs him the most. Has short memory and long confidence. Plays with controlled fire. Really played a solid game when conditions were not at it’s best. Had 4 touchdown passes and made great reads with excellent ball placement during middle of the field throws.
#9 Jermain Waters @JermaineW4ters | DE | c/o 2026 | 6’5” | 230
A disruptive DE with the explosiveness, length, and motor to impact every phase of the game. Plays fast, violent, and natural instincts. Whether it’s rushing off the edge, chasing from the backside, or squeezing down in the run game, he brings consistent pressure and forces offenses to account for him.
