For Armwood, Plant and Farragut: It all comes down to defense

Jeff Odom – Big County Preps

At first glance, one may attribute the successes of Armwood, Plant and St. Petersburg’s Admiral Farragut to their respective offenses. However the underlying factor that has kept each in the hunt for a state title (and berth into the title game for the Blue Jackets), is the defense.

While the Armwood offense has not been as dominating of late as the Armwood staff would like, the Hawks’ defense seems to be keeping things on cruise control since the opening round scare-fest which saw .500 Lakewood Ranch nearly complete the greatest upset in state history.

Led by Eric Striker, 80 total tackles, and Warren Wilson with 82 total tackles, the Hawks have pushed back the offensive power of some of Florida’s best high schools and have easily been the catalyst to not only the undefeated record, but the team’s ability to keep its mind on the state title even with the FHSAA on their heels. Still the Hawks can’t afford to nod off even with a strong D.

A look ahead:

6A State Semi-Final: St. Johns Bartram Trail at. Armwood – Friday – 7:30pm

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Plant’s road to victory hasn’t been flawless like Armwood, but its front line and linebackers have surged the Panthers into title talks again.

The Panthers’ Reeves and Tate Rogers have accumulated nearly 213 tackles alone this season, making life difficult for opponents.

Over the course of the 2011 season, Plant’s defense has allowed 150 points and blanked two opponents in 13 games. The benefit that the Panthers carry, is a productive offense that has the ability to pick up the defense if it struggles.

A look ahead:

8A State Semi-Final: Neptune Beach Fletcher at. Plant – Friday – 7:30pm

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Now finally, for Admiral Farragut. The Blue Jackets have remained one of Pinellas’ best since dropping a 12-10 decision to Canterbury in early September.

Farragut is different than the aforementioned programs because the small amount of players on the ‘Jackets’ roster, forcing most into duel position roles.

While the defense hasn’t been stellar statistically by any stretch of the imagination, there shouldn’t be a reason to criticize a team where many players don’t get much rest during possession changes. Now with the possibility of Pinellas County’s first state title, the pressure will be on the Blue Jackets’ defense (who has allowed 201 points, 73 of which split between Carrollwood Day and Indian Rocks Christian) to seal the deal.

A look ahead:

2A State Final: North Florida Christian vs. Admiral Farragut – Saturday

All Statistics As Recorded By Coaches on Maxpreps.com

Follow Jeff on Twitter: @JeffOdomBCP