The Three-Point Stance: The game and player you need to watch for Week 1 of high school football

This season, we’re taking a new stance on some of the Star Banner's high school football coverage, looking beyond the predictions to highlight different aspects of the game.

There will be revolving topics throughout the season, but this new weekly feature, called the "Three-Point Stance," highlights players, coaches, and fan experiences that stoke the flames of competition.

Our first edition breaks down recent records of participants in our best game to open the season, home game rankings, and a new name to know in Marion County football.

Let's see where this snap takes us.

Feature game of the week: Vanguard vs Buchholz

Buchholz and Vanguard have competed for the top public school team in their respective county for the last 10 years. In that period, they've met eight times. The Knights lead the series 4-3 in the seven verified regular-season meetings; the results of the 2022 spring game are inconclusive.

The last three matchups have gone the way of the Wildcats, but it’s a different age for both teams. There's no Fred Gaskin III, Kendall Jackson or Myles Graham. This game ushers in a new era of ball for Vanguard and Bucholz. Friday's game will allow us to see who will head their team as they search to retain their top team titles.

Marion County football player spotlight

I've jumped the shark on a few things before. I missed a few predictions last season, but I have a feeling about North Marion sophomore wide receiver Damir Williams.

I went into West Port and North Marion's scrimmage roster blind, hoping to find a player who you can't miss on the field. Within three plays of me finding a seat, he was streaking down the field with a gap growing between him and the nearest defender.

North Marion coach Jermaiha Gates notes him as a 4.38 40-yard dash runner and looks like it on the field. Speed kills, and if it does, Williams may be in the hunt for an all-county spot.

Home game rankings

Before we unveil the inaugural home game rankings, we should explain our makeshift formula. It'll be similar to NBA MVP voting. It won't be the same reasons every week.

In-county rivalry games are worth more than playing an out-of-town school. However, an elite matchup against an out-of-town opponent may trump two in-town teams. Momentum, off-the-field storyline, and drama will drive the needle as well.

That said, the formula is a work in progress. I hope you enjoy our first experiment.

1. Buchholz at Vanguard, 7:30 p.m.

See the record breakdown snippet above. This game has it all: heavy-hitting coaches with winning résumés, talented young prospects with a ton to prove. This game serves as an important early-season measuring stick for both squads.

2. Florida State University High School at Dunnellon, 7 p.m.

When the Seminoles enter the Tigers' territory, there is a matchup of top 10-ranked teams. A statement win here gives either team momentum from toppling a potential playoff team.

3. Forest at North Marion, 7 p.m.

We're going to keep it simple here: high-powered offenses with young defenses. We could see a high-scoring game or one filled with jitters.

4. St. Francis Catholic at Lake Weir, 7 p.m.

If the Hurricanes' 54-8 dismantling of Bronson is any indication of the form the SSAA state champions are, then you want to ride the wave early. The Wolves enter the eye of the storm 0-1 after suffering a 42-6 loss against Cedar Creek Christian.

5. Tampa Catholic at Trinity Catholic, 7 p.m.

My final pick may be a bit controversial, with closer matchups. For the first time in years, they aren't massive up front. That said, the visiting Celtics are young and formidable up front. How Trinity Catholic deals with those forces on the line will predict much of their season.

This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: The Three-Point Stance: The game and player you need to watch for Week 1 of high school football