Lake Highland Prep's varsity football team dropped their October 19 conference game against Cocoa Beach 56-34 at Cocoa Beach High School. The Highlanders, who entered the game with a 1-8 record, were outscored in all four quarters by the 8-3 Minutemen. The loss extends Lake Highland Prep's losing streak to eight games this season.
Cocoa Beach dominated the contest from the start, building a 28-0 lead by halftime. The Minutemen's offense, led by their senior quarterback, totaled 496 yards of total offense, including 328 through the air. Lake Highland Prep struggled to contain Cocoa Beach's run game, allowing 248 rushing yards.
This is the third straight loss for Lake Highland Prep in conference play, marking their first game this season against a team with a winning record. Coach Mike Smith said after the game that his team needs to improve their tackling and communication. "We didn't execute on either side of the ball," Smith said. "We have a long way to go."
Cocoa Beach, meanwhile, improved to 8-3 on the season and solidified their position in the conference standings. The Minutemen's defense held Lake Highland Prep to just 187 total yards, forcing three turnovers. Senior running back Jordan Thomas rushed for 142 yards and two touchdowns, earning him the game's most valuable player award.
The game was played in front of a crowd of approximately 2,000 fans, many of whom were Cocoa Beach students and alumni. The next game for Lake Highland Prep is at home against Melbourne High School on October 26. Cocoa Beach will host Satellite High School the following week.