TAMPA — Both defenses were stout in the early going. By Jefferson’s fourth possession, its bigger, more physical offensive line began to open holes for backs Corey Walker and Mondreas Lofton. That opened up the passing game for quarterback Cade Weldon, who scorched Alonso for three touchdowns. Alonso and quarterback Chris Oladokun made a game out of it in the fourth quarter, but the Ravens were plagued by dropped passes.
Drive of the game: On Jefferson’s fourth drive, the Dragons ran 10 plays, eight of them runs, gained four first downs, covered 77 yards and capped it with a gorgeous fade to the end zone to Maurice Moore.
Play of the game: On Alonso’s fifth drive of the second half, on third and 10 at the Ravens’ 40-yard line, Oladokun scrambled to buy himself seven or eight seconds before passing downfield to Jacob Chalkley for a 53-yard gain.
Stats of the game: Weldon was 7-of-18 for 113 yards and three TDs with an interception. Weldon also had 41 yards rushing and a touchdown. Walker rushed 15 times for 82 yards. Oladokun was 11-of-34 for 181 yards.
Final word: “We felt confident we were going to be able to run to help our young quarterback. Once we figured that out, we were able to take control of the game.” — Jefferson coach Jeremy Earle