ST. PETERSBURG — To say Clearwater’s win was sloppy would be an understatement. But despite problems holding on to the football, the Tornadoes were able to sneak away with a road win thanks to clutch fumble recoveries of their own, including a pair in the red zone that led to touchdowns.
Key drive: Toward the end of the second quarter, the Tornadoes methodically marched from midfield, capped by a Lucas McWhorter 9-yard score on a trap run. It gave Clearwater momentum heading into halftime.
Play of the game: With 45 seconds left, Gibbs surrendered its fourth turnover, the Gladiators’ 10th fumble of the night, allowing Clearwater to run out the clock.
Stars of the game: DeJuan Johnson, despite the loss, put on a show. He rushed for 114 yards and had 114 more through the air. He fueled an the offense that was able to drive the ball down the field but could not convert when it mattered most.
Stat of the game: Neither team could hold on to the ball, combining for 15 total fumbles, eight of which resulted in turnovers. Clearwater benefited more as it recovered a pair in the red zone.
Final word:“We’re in the process of understanding how big turnovers are. … But last year, we would not have hung in there and won this game.” — Clearwater coach Donnie Abraham.