Mainland, DeLand top 1st football Fab 5 ahead of Friday night's clash

Finally, it's game week.

Florida's prep football season finally kicks off Friday night, and all eyes in the Volusia/Flagler area will be fixated on a showdown of the top two teams — DeLand and Mainland. The Bulldogs pulled off the upset in last year's opener and held the No. 1 spot in the Fab 5 for the remainder of the season.

But, who starts 2019 on top? Let's find out.

1. Mainland

This is sure to stir up some controversy, considering DeLand's 30-20 victory last year at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium. It was Mainland's first defeat to a local opponent in six years.

However, the Bucs' offense could be lethal this fall with Taron Keith at the controls. Isaiah Gordon and Nate Braswell spearhead a loaded backfield group, while LaRon Davis and Ra'Mello Dotson anchor a typically solid defense.

Mainland has the home-field advantage this time around and will look for a bit of revenge Friday.

2. DeLand

DeLand's defense was as good as advertised in its kickoff classic, blanking Wekiva over three varsity quarters.

Matt Moore had a sack and blocked a punt, while Myzel Williams and Avantae Williams locked down the secondary against Mustangs quarterback Larry Preston. Keyonta Alexander broke off a 60-yard run, and Jadyn Nirschl connected on a 6-yard touchdown pass to Chuck Bradley.

The schedule is nothing shy of a gauntlet. DeLand faces Mainland, Mandarin and Seminole in the opening month, sandwiching a Week 2 bye.

3. Flagler Palm Coast

FPC went about its business in a 34-6 kickoff classic win over Jacksonville Atlantic Coast.

Senior quarterback Donovan Montoyo completed 6 of 9 attempts for 100 yards and a touchdown and rushed for an extra 65 yards. Four starters are back along the offensive line, which should open up holes for the likes of Montoyo, Ty Jenkins, Marc Genis and Chris Parks.

The Bulldogs will enter the Potato Bowl as big favorites against crossstown rival Matanzas.

4. Spruce Creek

Aided by first-half touchdowns from Cyncere Wilson and Marvin Scott, the Hawks outlasted T.C. Williams (Va.) 34-21 in a preseason showcase.

Spruce Creek's offense showed a bit of balance, and Trent Provenzano shined at the back end of the secondary with a few interceptions negated by penalty.

The Hawks will look to keep their winning streak against Seabreeze intact. The last time the Sandcrabs prevailed was 2013.

5. Atlantic

The only local team which did not participate in a kickoff classic, Atlantic enters 2019 with an expectation to improve and challenge for a Class 5A playoff spot.

USF commit Ty Berrong, wide receiver Maximus Campbell and safety Jaye Brockington earned All-Area accolades last fall and comprise a strong nucleus. Aaron Manning and Tyrese Green could be due for big junior seasons.

The Sharks open with a nearly 200-mile road trip south to face Class 2A playoff qualifier Moore Haven.