Lakeland High School Football Dreadnaughts 5A State Champions

Mitchell (New Port Richey) built an early 10–0 lead and appeared to be sending Lakeland and first–year head coach Marvin Frazier into the offseason without a playoff win. The Mustangs scored on their first possession that included an impressive 55–yard gallop followed by a 3–yard touchdown run. Mitchell then recovered a botched punt snap at the Dreadnaughts’ 1–yard line that resulted in a field goal.

Once the Dreadnaughts awoke and realized they were in a Class 4A, Region 2 Quarterfinals battle, the Orange & Black raised their level of play and cruised to the playoff victory. Though the Dreadnaughts had multiple players out due to injury or suspension (a result of the Kathleen game), other players stepped up to make plays.

Lakeland put points on the scoreboard by utilizing a dominating running game. Markel Johnson (RB), who totaled 14 carries for 80 yards, ran for two touchdowns that gave the Dreadnaughts a 14–10 lead; one they would not relinquish. Jadarius Dobie (RB) contributed to the ground game by carrying the football eight times for 101 yards, including a bullish 50–yard run. Malik Morris (LB) also lined up in the offensive backfield and ran for a 44–yard touchdown. By game’s end, Lakeland amassed almost 300 yards on the ground.

The Dreadnaughts’ passing game also yielded scores. Zander Smith (QB) completed 10 of 16 passes for 159 yards, including three touchdown strikes. Rick Penick (WR) hauled in four passes for 69 yards, including a 35–yard touchdown that gave Lakeland a 21–10 in the second quarter. Jameson Young (DB) contributed to the short–staffed WR corps as he caught a 40–yard touchdown pass to give the Dreadnaughts a 28–10 halftime lead. Lakeland then outscored Mitchell, by a 21–7 margin, in the second half to secure the victory.

Dreadnaughts on the defensive side of the football also made plays that ensured the win. Malik Morris interception set up the touchdown pass from Zander Smith to Rick Penick. Kavon McKinney (CB) also intercepted two passes. In total, the Dreadnaughts held the Mustangs to just over 100 yards of offense during the game.

The Bartow Yellowjackets make a return trip to Bryant Stadium to face the Dreadnaughts in the Class 4A, Region 2 Semifinals on November 18th. Game time is 7:30 PM.