Dreadnaughts Exterminate the Yellowjackets, 30-2.

The Bartow Yellowjackets entered Bryant Stadium with an undefeated record and a reputation for a high-scoring offense. Though the Yellowjackets were dealing with suspensions and injuries, the Dreadnaught Faithful expected Lakeland to be tested last Friday.

Bartow is undefeated no more.

Given that Bartow’s only points came via the Yellowjackets’ defense, Lakeland rose to the occasion and dominated the game. The victory was even more impressive than the shutout the Dreadnaughts posted on Lake Gibson the previous week.

Much like the contest at Bartow Memorial Stadium last season, the Dreadnaughts had to overcome multiple penalties, questionable calls and ball positioning by the officiating crew. Their actions befuddled the coaches, players and fans in attendance.

The Yellowjackets scored first as they recorded a safety in the first quarter to take a 2-0 lead. The safety prevented the Dreadnaughts from achieving their fourth shutout of the season.

Lakeland’s offense scored in the second quarter when Malik Morris (RB) ran for an 8-yard touchdown to give the Dreadnaughts a 7-2 lead. Lakeland increased its lead to 14-2 when Zander Smith (QB) connected with Carlos Mitchell (CB/WR) on a 7-yard touchdown pass with 5:04 minutes left before halftime.

Not to be outdone, the Dreadnaughts’ defense contributed to the scoring when Keon Young (FS) intercepted a pass and recorded an 83-yard pick-6 with 49 seconds remaining in the first half to give the Dreadnaughts a 21-2 lead.

Zander Smith threw a second touchdown pass, a 5-yard completion to Rick Penick (WR), to give the Dreadnaughts a commanding 28-2 lead with 4:20 left in the third quarter.

The Dreadnaughts’ special teams registered a safety of their own when the Yellowjackets sailed a snap out of the end zone with approximately 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Lakeland will host the George Jenkins Eagles at Bryant Stadium at 7:30 PM on October 13th.