After defeating Suncoast in the Kickoff Classic by a final score of 33-0, the Chiefs look to continue their strong start to the season against the Seminole Ridge Hawks.

Last season, Seminole Ridge finished the season with a 9-3 (3-1 division) record, earning a spot in the FHSAA State Playoffs. Despite their eventual loss to Palm Beach Central, Seminole Ridge will be a tough opponent for the Chiefs.

Last season, Seminole Ridge and the Chiefs faced off around this time last year. In a game that proved to be difficult for the Chiefs, Seminole Ridge handled them easily and defeated them 43-0.

Even though Seminole Ridge had a successful 2017 season, the Hawks were forced to replace their head football coach, hiring Rick Casko. This is positive for the Chiefs as it means that Seminole Ridge will have to figure out a new system.

For the Chiefs, the team is coming off a 2-7 season, an improvement over the 2016 season where the team failed to win a game. The team returns 6 starters on offense and another 7 on defense, a valuable aspect for a team looking to take the next step.

Multiple players will be important for the Chiefs. Runningback Val Carnegie is an important piece and a focal point of the Chiefs offense. Keyondric Sams, who was named to the ESPN West Palm Top 63 of High School seniors is also an important part of the Chiefs’ offense. On defense, Andy St. Hillaire will make a huge impact and be a big playmaker at the linebacker position.

The Chiefs return coach Brian Coe for his second season in the position. The team will look to turn some heads in the district and having a head coach that the players already know is an important part of the improvement that the Chiefs look to make.