MILTON @ PACE

On Friday night, when Milton(5-3, 0-2) travels to Pace(3-5, 1-1) for their annual rivalry game, there will be a lot on the line. As always, when these two clash on the gridiron there are bragging rights up for grabs. But this year, there is even more to play for.  As much as the two schools and fan bases have in common, there are many differences between the two. Simply put, Milton is Milton. Pace is Pace. Only a few miles separate the two schools and on Friday night, they will be on the same field duking it out for much more than just bragging rights.

The two schools had completely different starts to their season. Pace struggled out of the gate to a sluggish 1-3 start. Milton, on the other hand, was 4-0, winning close games. However, you can throw the records out the window when these two get together.

What’s at stake? Great question.

As mentioned earlier, the bragging rights. As with any rivalry game, these are so important. Fan bases, players, coaches all get caught up in the emotion of a game like this and that only intensifies the energy of the atmosphere. Last year, Pace was able to beat Milton by a whopping score of 47-7. One would assume that Coach Marsh has not forgotten and the MHS players will be hungry for some revenge this year.

Next is a possible playoff spot. Pace is 1-1 in district play. Milton is 0-2. Gulf Breeze, who beat Milton, but lost to Pace, plays Navarre on Friday night. Assuming Navarre beat Gulf Breeze and Milton beats Pace, there would be a 3 way tie for 2nd place in the district. All three would be 1-2 in district play.

Finally, Mickey Lindsey is retiring this year. Think about Mickey Lindsey’s last game vs. Milton at Pace…Lots of intrigue there. The Patriots will be fired up to send him out as a winner in this his last game against the Panthers.

Should be a fun one whether you’re a Patriot or a Panther. See you Friday!