Football: Lake Gibson at Tampa Bay Tech preview

7A state semifinals

Lake Gibson (9-3) at Tampa Bay Tech (13-0), 7:30

The Titans, who went undefeated in the regular season for the first time, are making their first state semifinal appearance. The foundation for Tampa Bay Tech’s success is up front on both sides of the ball. A veteran — and massive — offensive line that returned every starter from last season has paved the way and provided protection for the Titans to rush and pass for more than 2,000 yards as a team this season. The defensive front has been relentless in getting after the quarterback, particularly late in games. Four players — Keyon Clark (15), Jahiem Borden (8), Antonito Camon (7) and Donteye Drew (7) — each have at least seven sacks this season. Their biggest challenge will be stopping Braves running back Jaylon Glover, a Utah commit who has rushed for more than 2,000 yards this season.  The stage will not be too big for Tampa Bay Tech thanks to a difficult schedule. The Titans faced nine teams that made the playoffs in the regular season.  After starting 0-2, Lake Gibson has won nine of its last 10 games, including seven straight. The last three wins have all come on the road in the playoffs, the biggest ones coming against Lakeland and Orlando Edgewater in the first two rounds. Kyle Worden, the former Armwood defensive coordinator, is now in charge of the Braves’ and has faced Tampa Bay Tech plenty of times in the past. 

Stat leaders

CategoryLake GibsonTampa Bay Tech
Passing yardsLogan Hackett, 1,453 (12 TDs, 7 INTs)Xavione Wshington, 2,085 (21 TDs, 7 INTs)
Rushing yardsJaylon Glover, 2,073 (26 TDs)James Evans, 975 (12 TDs)
Receiving yardsTyson Gast, 388 (3 TDs)Greg Gaines III, 757 (9 TDs)
TacklesLandon Brown, 64Ed Gwinn, 85
SacksWade Tyer, 6Keyon Clark, 15
InterceptionsCormani McClain, 5Two players tied with three.