The Gators are averaging over 40 points per game while only allowing 11 points per game. When you look at their statistics, two underclassmen pop out as a couple of the major reasons for the Gators’ resurgence. Sophomore quarterback Kyle Horvath and junior wide receiver Kennen Ayala have become a highly productive combination.
Horvath stands 6’2” 165 pounds and has completed 56 out of his 93 passing attempts for 1,261 yards and 18 touchdowns. He is completing 60% of his passes and has not thrown an interception. He has also rushed for 81 yards and 1 touchdown. He is doing an outstanding job of managing a potent offense and taking care of the football.
Ayala (5’10” 165 lbs) has pulled in 20 of those passes for 722 yards and 11 touchdowns. More than half of his receptions have been for touchdowns. He also has 2 carries for 40 yards. He has great hands and speed. He consistently beats coverages and gets behind defenses. He is a big-play threat when catching short passes also. He is not someone you want to let out in space.
Land O’ Lakes will face their biggest test this Friday when they host Tampa Catholic. The Crusaders are 3-2 and will be fresh off of a bye week. Their two losses have been to quality opponents (CCC and Berkeley Prep) and their pass defense has been very stingy this season. TC will have the best group of athletes Land O’ Lakes has seen so far this season so it should be a very competitive game. These underclassmen have a golden opportunity to prove themselves.