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Football: Steinbrenner 38, Palm Harbor University 12

 
Published Oct. 17, 2015

LUTZ — As Steinbrenner defensive backs coach Cedric Roberts pointed out Friday after the Warriors' 38-12 domination of Palm Harbor University, there is something unique about this year's senior class.

"I told them that they're the first senior class to be in a situation this late into the season to be this ahead in the standings, so I think it was bigger than senior night for them tonight," said Roberts.

With that in mind, the Warriors (7-1, 4-1) followed tradition to the letter, marching out, arms locked with their respective family members and friends, hearing their names called for one of the last times.

Wasting no time, Steinbrenner senior middle linebacker Tyler Mirabella and Co. stopped any advance the PHU Hurricanes (4-3, 2-3) attempted to brew up as they were held to 22 total offensive yards in the first half and no points. Mirabella had at least three big tackles that led to many crucial fourth-and-long situations.

"I think we are one of the best defenses in the county and we aren't gonna let anything stop us from going to the playoffs," Mirabella said. "We refuse to lose. We're trying to do something we have never done before."

The offense did its part, too, taking advantage of great field position due to a short punt and wall-like defense. Sophomore Colin Wray connected with senior Justin Moffatt on consecutive passing plays, a 12-yard completion from the Hurricanes' 32, then a 20-yard pass into the end zone in which Moffatt jumped above the defending player, made the grab and managed to come down with the ball.

From there, it would be a feeding frenzy as the Warriors put up 348 offensive yards in the first half alone. Three TDs and about 100 yards came from senior running back Jayquese Dantley.

Moffatt later scored again on a goal-line rush off a direct snap with three seconds left in the half. Junior Noah Ruggles booted a 52-yard field goal .

The Hurricanes scored two touchdowns late in the game, missing both PATs, but were halted by zeros on the clock.