The 5A bracket has been set, and the first round of playoffs started on November 14, 2025. With the State Championship in sight, the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders kicked off the start to their playoff run against Heritage Palm Bay. The Brian Piccolo Stadium set the scene for the blowout game that started this year’s run for the state title.
Going into the game, the Raiders were expected to dominate all phases, but did not let their guard down, as upsets are likely in playoff football. The Raiders received the ball first, but went on a quick three-and-out drive leading to a punt. The Raiders’ defense returned the favor, getting the ball back to the offense, leading to a promising drive and a touchdown by junior Virgil Lemons.
After the slow start, the Raiders were on fire the rest of the half, only letting up one touchdown. With interceptions by Jaden Carey, Richard Bowe, Jermiyah Douglas, and touchdowns by Brady Palmer, Jordan Roache, and Leroy Thomas twice, the score was 42-7 at Halftime.
Coming out of halftime, the Raiders defense didn’t let up, getting another stop to get the ball back to offense. On the first offensive play after halftime, senior Jaden Desir got a long, rushing touchdown to make the score 49-7. Kyle Infante then had a great kick to pin Heritage in their own redzone. Jonathan Clark had an excellent tackle in the endzone, getting a safety to make the score 51-7. The offense got the ball back and Blake Calixte threw a touchdown pass to Antonio Garcia.
The St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders will play at home again next week against the Coconut Creek Cougars for a highly anticipated second round playoff game on Friday, November 21, 2025. The Coconut Creek Cougars won their playoff game with a score of 49-20 against the Mater Academy Lions, and will be looking to make a statement against the powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders.
