BRADENTON — The last time Largo didn’t win the district title, this year’s seniors were in the second grade. Thanks to dominating performances by the offensive line and defense, the Packers ran their streak to eight Friday with a 38-0 demolition of Bradenton Lakewood Ranch.
“It means a lot to us,” running back Jarvis Stewart said. “It means we’re coming together and still pushing like we’re supposed to.”
“This means Largo is where it’s supposed to be,” coach Rick Rodriguez said.
Largo got the ball first and Stewart broke a 61-yard run for the score.
“Give it to the O-line,” Stewart said. “They stepped up, and all season they have been pushing.”
The Packers defense got the ball back for the offense after a three-and-out. Juwan Brown found Reggie Campbell for a 31-yard touchdown pass.
Largo’s defense, which surrendered only 198 yards, decided to get in on the scoring. Jonathan Crawford outjumped a Lakewood Ranch receiver then followed a convoy of blockers for a 55-yard interception return.
“On defense sometimes it’s about bringing out the better man,” linebacker/running back Derrick Doss said. “We have to corral to the ball and make plays."
Brown found Campbell again, this time from 26 yards just before halftime to make the score 28-0.
The Mustangs had their best drive to start the third quarter. At the Packer 10-yard line, Cordell Hudson picked off a pass.
Brown finished with 199 yards passing and two touchdowns while Stewart added 132 yards rushing a touchdown.
“Since we started this is supposed to be the year we could go all the way,” Doss said. “We’d love to fulfill that dream."