Cocoa edges Merritt Island in double-OT thriller, 30–24

MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. — If Week 1 is about tone-setting, Cocoa and Merritt Island just raised the bar for the entire Space Coast. In a rivalry game that swung on special teams, red-zone grit, and fourth-quarter poise, the Tigers outlasted the Mustangs 30–24 in double overtime on Friday night.

How it was won

After a back-and-forth regulation that saw both defenses trade stops and momentum, Cocoa and Merritt Island punched into the first overtime tied, then needed a second extra period to decide it. Cocoa finally broke through and closed the door with a defensive stand for the six-point win.

Stars and swing plays

Early returns suggest Cocoa’s receiving corps is as advertised: Jamal Smith nearly hit the century mark with almost 100 receiving yards through the air, repeatedly moving the sticks and setting up scores, while Merritt Island’s defense answered with takeaways to keep the Mustangs in it.

Special teams and short-yardage execution loomed large all night. Merritt Island’s kicking unit helped force the extra frames, but Cocoa’s situational offense in OT proved the decider—finishing drives when field position shrank.

What it means

The early-season indicators are clear: both teams have what it takes to make this a memorable season.

For Cocoa, it’s a road rivalry win that checks all the early-season boxes—composure in chaos, playmaking on the perimeter, and red-zone resolve. The Tigers open 1–0 and walk into a heavyweight date with Mainland next week with momentum and film full of teachable moments. The Tigers, ranked 12th in Florida, will look to build early-season momentum and capitalize on their home field advantage.

For Merritt Island, the loss stings, but the Mustangs showed they can trade punches with a ranked opponent and make life difficult with a ball-hawking defense. They get Melbourne next and won’t have to wait long to prove this performance travels.