Jacksonville, FL – The Episcopal School of Jacksonville Eagles are making noise across Florida high school football. With an undefeated record and two impressive postseason victories, Episcopal is now just two wins away from capturing a Sunshine State Athletic Association (SSAA) state championship.
The Eagles improved to 12-0 after defeating Seffner Christian 34-24 in the SSAA 11-man football quarterfinals on November 6. The victory continued a remarkable season for a program that has shown it can win with a balanced offense, explosive playmakers, and a defense capable of making big stops.
Episcopal entered the postseason as the No. 3 seed in the North Section. However, the Eagles have shown that their seed does not define their potential.
In the opening round, Episcopal dominated Old Plank Christian Academy, earning a convincing 37-8 victory. Next, the Eagles traveled to face Seffner Christian, the North Section’s No. 2 seed. Once again, Episcopal delivered when it mattered most, coming away with a 34-24 victory and punching its ticket to the semifinals.
Coach Marcus Wells Leads the Eagles’ Championship Chase
Leading the Eagles is head coach Marcus Wells, a former Episcopal standout who understands what it means to wear the school colors. Wells is a member of the Episcopal Class of 1990 and is in his sixth season as head coach. A former Cornell University football player and University of Florida graduate, Wells has helped build a winning culture while developing players on and off the field.
Wells and his staff have been instrumental in the development of talent, but instilling the belief of winning in the ball club, It has shown in the impressive play of the players, and the impressive record of the team.
Westminster Academy (27-26)
Episcopal opened the season with a one-point victory. The Eagles had to battle until the final whistle to protect their home-field win.
NFEI (35-34, 2OT)
This was arguably one of Episcopal’s biggest tests. The Eagles survived a double-overtime battle against another talented Duval Sports D1 Top 25 program.
Fernandina Beach (20-15)
This victory demonstrated Episcopal’s ability to win a close, physical football game. The Eagles had to execute in the fourth quarter to preserve their undefeated record.
Tough coaching, tough love, tough victories, a recipe for success, and a major reason the Eagles are one of the toughest teams in the SSAA playoffs.
The Eagles have several playmakers who have helped fuel their undefeated season.
Players to Watch
Freshman quarterback Justice Turpin has been outstanding in his first varsity season. Turpin is averaging 179.7 passing yards per game and has thrown 31 touchdown passes. He has also added seven rushing touchdowns. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs gives Episcopal an exciting offensive weapon.
Sophomore running back Amir Allen has been another major contributor. Allen averages 101.7 rushing yards per game and leads the team with 15 total touchdowns, including 14 rushing scores.
Defensively, junior Deion Cummings has been a force up front with 11 sacks. Sophomore defensive back Damar Gauldin has also made his presence felt with five interceptions.
Maclay Is Next
The Eagles now face their biggest challenge of the season when they take on Maclay (11-0) on Friday, November 13, in the SSAA North Section semifinal.
Maclay advanced after defeating Christ’s Church Academy 80-42. The matchup guarantees that one undefeated team will suffer its first loss of the season.
For Episcopal, the mission is simple: keep winning. With an explosive offense, talented young playmakers, and a defense that creates turnovers, the Eagles have positioned themselves for a special finish.
A victory over Maclay would send Coach Wells and his Eagles to the SSAA state championship game. The Episcopal Eagles are no longer simply enjoying a great season. They are flying high and soaring toward a state title.
