Lakeland High School Football Dreadnaughts 5A State Champions

The pregame hype echoed this was one of the better Eagles’ teams in recent years. Coming into Friday’s contest, the Eagles only had one blemish on their record, sustained the previous week.

From George Jenkins’ first possession, it was clear that the outcome would be very much like the recent past. Carlos Mitchell (CB/WR) intercepted an errant pass and returned it for an electrifying 48-yard pick-6 score.

The shutout rout had begun.

Lakeland built a 38-0 lead prior to halftime that qualified for the mercy rule. The game had a running clock in the second half. The scoring disparity enabled several Dreadnaughts to play quality minutes during the contest.
Zander Smith (QB) was a surgeon as he dissected the Eagles’ defense. Smith passed for three touchdowns, including two scores to Jamar Taylor Jr. (WR).

The Dreadnaughts’ defense continued their recent dominance by posting the shutout. George Jenkins was never in a position to add to the scoreboard. Lakeland has not surrendered a single point in district play this season.

The Dreadnaughts now sit atop the 4S District 7 standings, securing Lakeland’s first district championship under new head coach Marvin Frazier.

Lakeland will host the Clearwater International Knights at Bryant Stadium at 7:30 PM on October 20th.