School starts Monday, but the Heritage football team is two steps ahead. They are starting to defend their state championship, beginning with Friday’s game against Philadelphia’s St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, the defending Pennsylvania 6A state champions. The Patriots, ranked No. 3 in Florida and 8 nationally according to MaxPreps,  already have one win under their belts after their game against McArthur High School 23-14 last Friday. 

Here are the first few scheduled games to look out for: 

Friday – Heritage vs. St. Joseph’s Preparatory School 

The Patriots will get a stiff test against St. Joseph’s, the No. 29 team nationally. They have never played the Hawks, who finished last season 10-3. The game will be played at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale and broadcast on ESPN2. Tickets can be purchased here.  

Sept. 5 – Heritage vs. Chaminade-Madonna

Chaminade-Madonna is one of the Patriots’ toughest opponents, having defeated Heritage four straight years. Last year’s game was tight with the Lions pulling out a 48-45 win. This game could have long-term implications for both teams’ season rankings as Chaminade-Madonna is ranked No. 7 nationally and No. 3 in Florida. 

Sept. 12 – Heritage vs. Edna Karr High School

The Patriots will face a tough opponent, traveling to New Orleans to face Edna Karr High School, the nation’s 15th ranked team. The Cougars finished 14-0 last year, winning the Louisiana 5A championship.