Friday nights in Jacksonville aren't just about sports. They’re a whole atmosphere. If you’ve ever been stuck in traffic on Old Middleburg Road right as the sun starts to dip, you know exactly what I’m talking about. The lights from the stadium start to hum, the smell of popcorn and humid Florida air mixes together, and suddenly, the only thing that matters is the next ed white football game.
This isn't just about a high school team; it's about a community that bleeds navy and white.
Honestly, the Ed White Commanders have become one of the most electric tickets in Duval County. Under Head Coach Lawrence Johnson, this program hasn't just improved—it’s transformed. People used to think of Ed White as just another school on the Westside. Now? They’re a powerhouse that puts up 50 points before you’ve even finished your halftime hot dog.
What Really Happened in the Recent Ed White Football Game?
If you missed the playoff clash against St. Augustine late in 2025, you missed a war. The scoreboard showed a 44-12 loss for the Commanders, but the score doesn't tell the whole story. St. Augustine is a juggernaut, sure. But for three quarters, Ed White looked like they belonged on that same elite tier.
The grit is what gets you.
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Leading up to that, the Commanders were on an absolute tear. They went into the postseason with a 9-3 record, including a district title that felt like a statement to the rest of Florida. You look at games like the 48-42 shootout against Baldwin on Halloween. That was peak high school football. High stakes, no defense, just pure heart and playmaking. King Boylston, the junior quarterback, has been the engine for this offense. He isn't just throwing the ball; he’s a general out there.
Key Standouts You Need to Know
When you watch an ed white football game, a few names usually jump off the roster. King Mercer, a sophomore wideout, is basically a human highlight reel. He's averaging nearly 70 receiving yards a game, which, for a sophomore in this district, is kind of insane.
Then you have the muscle.
- Johnny Duckett: A junior defensive tackle who recorded 9 sacks last season. He’s a nightmare for any offensive coordinator.
- Julian Holt: A senior safety who leads the team in tackles (over 8 per game). He’s the guy who hits so hard you can hear it in the parking lot.
- Rontrez Loyd: The sophomore running back who averages over 72 yards per game. He’s the "lightning" to the team’s "thunder."
The "Commanders" vs. "Cardinals" Confusion
Wait. Let’s clear something up because Google gets this wrong all the time.
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If you search for an ed white football game, you might see scores for the "Cardinals" instead of the "Commanders." Those are the E.D. White Cardinals from Thibodaux, Louisiana. Different state. Different mascot. Equally passionate fans, but if you’re looking for the Jacksonville Westside vibe, make sure you’re following the Commanders.
The Louisiana school also had a deep playoff run in 2025, ending their season with an 8-4 record after a tough 31-0 loss to St. Charles Catholic. It’s funny how both "Ed White" schools ended their seasons against "Saint" schools (St. Augustine for the Florida team, St. Charles for the Louisiana one). Just a weird coincidence that keeps fans on their toes.
Why the Culture Changed Under Coach Johnson
Basically, Lawrence Johnson didn't just bring a new playbook to the Westside; he brought a new mindset. For years, Ed White was the school kids left to go play for private schools or bigger programs. Now, it’s a destination.
He’s built a "fun and caring atmosphere," as local reporters often put it. But don't let the "caring" part fool you. This team plays mean. They play fast. They had a stretch where they were averaging 55 points a game. 55! You don’t do that by being nice on the field.
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The roster is young, too. Look at the names I mentioned earlier: Boylston, Mercer, Loyd. Most of these guys are sophomores and juniors. That means the next ed white football game you go to in 2026 is probably going to feature an even more polished, even more dangerous squad.
The Neighborhood Rivalries
Nothing beats the atmosphere when Riverside or Englewood comes to town. The game against Riverside in October 2025 was a 64-45 track meet. It was chaotic. It was loud. It was everything that makes Duval County football special. When the Commanders clinching the 4A District title on Senior Night, the celebration was so loud you could probably hear it over at the Naval Air Station.
Looking Ahead: Actionable Fan Guide
If you’re planning on heading out to a game this coming season, there are a few things you should know. The stadium fills up fast, especially for district matchups.
- Get there early: Parking on the Westside is a gamble. If you aren't in the lot 45 minutes before kickoff, prepare for a hike.
- Follow the local beat: Duval Sports and SBLive Florida are the best places for real-time updates. Don't rely on the big national sites; they often mix up the Florida and Louisiana schools.
- Watch the recruiting trail: Keep an eye on guys like Julian Holt. He’s already getting college interest, and watching a future Saturday-star play on a Friday night is half the fun.
- Check the weather: This is Jacksonville. A 7:00 PM kickoff usually means a 6:45 PM lightning delay in September. Bring a poncho and a lot of patience.
The Commanders have officially put the rest of the city on notice. They aren't just a "Westside story" anymore; they're a legitimate contender in Florida’s 4A classification. Whether they’re winning 74-0 against Englewood or fighting through a playoff heartbreaker, an ed white football game is the heartbeat of this community.
To stay updated on the 2026 spring practice schedule and upcoming fall rosters, check the official Duval County Public Schools athletics portal or follow Coach Johnson’s social media updates for the latest on player evaluations and transfer news.