Plant airs it out in victory

Entering Friday night's non-district game at Brandon, Plant's offense, known throughout the county for its passing attack, had found more success running the football this season.

Against the Eagles, who were coming off a shutout win against Newsome, the No. 43 nationally-ranked Panthers scorched the defense for nearly 300 passing yards and four touchdowns in a 59-21 victory.

Senior quarterback James Few threw for 195 yards and three touchdowns in the first half. He often caught Brandon's defense off guard with screen passes that resulted in big plays, including a 43-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Crawford.

Plant led 36-15 at halftime.

"The screen play at Plant hasn't really been successful over the years, historically," Few said. "This year, obviously we've had some big plays on it, and it's not necessarily a major point of emphasis, its just one of our plays and we tend to run it well."

Eight players had receptions for Plant (6-0), led by Dereck Mann with four catches for 58 yards and two touchdowns. Junior backup quarterback Aaron Banks threw for 50 yards with a touchdown and rushed for 55 yards.

"The last two weeks we've really been effective through the air," Plant coach Robert Weiner said. "It's been more of a matter of just what we're starting to think we can do a little bit, more than what we've seen against a defense. We've run a little pace in our offense and I think that's sparked our energy a little bit. It's been good for us."

Plant jumped out to a 24-7 lead in the first quarter, highlighted by two kickoff returns for touchdowns by Austin Roberts (67 yards) and Austin Aikens (70).

Senior running back Tyrell Garner led Brandon (2-4) with 131 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Plant faces Alonso next week in a game that will decide the district championship.

"Obviously they've had a great year so far and I have great respect for (Alonso coach) Brian (Emanuel). He's done a great job where ever he's been as a coordinator and I've heard nothing but great things from outside people and Alonso people as well. We know we'll have our hands full next week."

P – Crawford 43 pass from Few (Rogers pass from J. Few).

B – Garner 11 run (Cope kick).

P – Roberts 67 kick return (Aman kick).

P – Safety

P – Au. Aikens 70 kick return (Aman kick).

P – Mann 5 pass from Few (kick failed).

B – Dooley 11 run (Cabilete pass from Knipple)

P – Mann 14 pass from Few (kick failed).

P – Aman 30 FG

P – Watts 3 run (W. Few kick).

B – Garner 1 run (run failed).

P – Casselli 14 pass from Banks (W. Few kick).

P – Martin 3 run (kick failed).