Pahokee sophomore Austin Simmons. [Photo By Richard Marion/Lake Okeechobee News]

PAHOKEE- Pahokee sophomore Austin Simmons announced on April 4 that he was committing to play football at the University of Florida.

As quarterback Simmons has led the Blue Devils to a 9-2 and 9-3 record in two year. Last season he racked up 3,161 yards and 24 touchdowns through the air. His performance on the field attracted a slew of offers from around the country, including  Texas A&M, Miami, Tennessee, Florida State and Louisville.

But, ultimately it was Gainesville and the Florida Gators which earned the quarterback’s commitment.

As a Blue Devil, Simmons has helped lead Pahokee to two back-to-back wins over the Glades Central Raiders in the Muck Bowl. In 2021 Pahokee shut-out the Raiders 28-0. In 2022 the Blue Devils dominated Glades Central 46-14, with Simmons throwing for over 300 yards.

Austin Simmons and Gator football head coach Billy Napier. [Photo courtesy of Austin Simmons/Lake Okeechobee News]

During both of his seasons in Pahokee the Blue Devils have made deep playoff runs. The Blue Devils reached the regional final both years, coming one game away from advancing to the state semifinal.

The college football website Rivals.com currently ranks Simmons as the number three prostyle quarterback in country in the 2025 class.

 

 

 

 

 

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