Injured Eagle says he'll play Friday

Samir Baker's right ankle was elevated and wrapped in ice at this afternoon's practice, but the confidence of the Eagles' prolific two-way star was at full strength.

He insists he'll play in Friday's Class 5A, District 7 title game against Plant City.

Baker, bedecked in street clothes -- including a purple dress shirt and tie -- at today's practice, sustained a high-ankle sprain in the first quarter of last week's 56-0 rout of Bloomingdale. He said he intends to return to practice Wednesday, and won't even consult a doctor.

"I already know what it is," said Baker, who has nearly 900 rushing yards and starts at safety or linebacker on defense. "It's basically the same thing that happened to my other ankle (in the preseason)."

Coach John Lima and defensive coordinator Dale Caparaso both said they also expect Baker to play against the Raiders. Caparaso said that, if needed, Baker could've returned to the Bloomingdale game.