There is no love lost between Tampa Bay Tech and Freedom High School. The two schools have a heated rivalry stemming from a on the field brawl that occurred years ago. It was evident during Friday night’s game that the tensions between the schools had not improved as both sides played with a sweltering passion that led to a penalty filled affair.
Richard Benjamin started his Senior Night with a bang by returning the opening kickoff 25 yards for the Titans; yet, a resilient Patriot Defense forced a quick three and out. Tampa Bay Tech’s defense is simply massive and overwhelmed Freedom for most of the night holding them to under 100 yards of total offense. Senior linebacker Sam Ellison looked amazing for the Titans and he had a huge sack on third down of Freedom’s opening drive.
Benjamin, a future college wide receiver, played the part of a bruising running back well and gained over 130 yards on the ground. The Patriots Defense would not break through and only allowed two field goals in the first quarter of play. Senior Linebacker Max Orr was very impressive for Freedom and had multiple sacks for the game.
After being constantly on the field the Patriots Defense wilted in the second quarter and the Titans quickly opened up the flood-gates. Sophomore Deon Cain threw two touchdown passes in the quarter and Justin Akins ran for another score leading to a 30-0 halftime lead for the Titans. The final touchdown of the game would come from Senior Jamaruz Thompkins who had a 50 yard run in the closing moments to solidify a 37-0 shutout.
Game Notes:
• Freedom sophomore wide receiver Johnny Rodicio was a fire ball. He can’t stand more than 5’6; yet, he is super aggressive and hit TBT defenders like a ton of bricks.
• Likewise, TBT senior fullback Michael Fry is a 5’5 powerhouse. Fry could teach LeGarrette Blount a thing or two about driving his legs. He might be the hardest hitting fullback I have seen all season.
• Senior Austin Miller hit three big field goals for the Titans including one from 42 yards out. He might be a serious threat for the Titans come playoff time.
– Anthony Peace