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Gators Get Lift Before Playoffs

By EDDIE DANIELS

edaniels@tampatrib.com

Published: November 15, 2008

WESLEY CHAPEL - All along, Land O' Lakes coach John Benedetto said his backup quarterback Tanner Stocker was pretty good - he just didn't have much varsity experience.

Entering Friday night's contest at Wiregrass Ranch, the sophomore had completed just two of his nine passes. With starter Stephen Weatherford on the sideline, his left arm in a sling supporting his fractured clavicle, Stocker helped guide the Gators to a 29-0 regular season finale victory against the Bulls.

"The play calling to start off; they gave me nice, easy passes," said Stocker who completed five of his first six attempts for 47 yards. "Just quick outs and let the receivers do the work after they get the ball, and a few handoffs just to get the team going. Great play calling to start off and give me a little confidence."

Stocker ended the night 9 of 13 for 106 yards and two touchdown passes.

Weatherford suffered the break near the end of last week's game at Ridgewood, the same night the squad collected its second consecutive and 13th overall district title. Because of that injury, Stocker will be the starter when the Gators (8-2) host Daytona Beach Seabreeze next week.

Not only did the offensive play calling help, but the Gators' defense played a role in boosting the QB's confidence.

Andrew Gorgen collected two interceptions, Alex Mathis and Ryan Lane also recorded picks and Zach Whithoeft added a fumble recovery late in the game.

"I think we executed very well offensively and our defense is playing a lot better," Benedetto said. "I think our defense has improved tremendously in the second half of this season and as a result, it helps our offense."

After Gorgen's first interception ended the ensuing Wiregrass (1-9) drive, running back Ben Hipps scored two plays later from 4-yards out, increasing the Gators advantage, 9-0.

Two possessions later, James Tello took a reverse to the right, racing past defenders for a 28-yard score with 4:12 left in the second quarter.