The Plant Panthers offense returned with a vengeance as the team advances to its first State Semifinal appearance since 2013 with an impressive 35-7 victory over 2015 7A runner-up Viera.
After being unable to score in the first half last week against Lakeland, Panthers QB Dane Frantzen connected with Christian Watson for a 48-yard touchdown pass on the opening drive of the game (7 plays, 82 yards) for a 7-0 lead.
The Plant defense continued their aggressive play as well stifling the Hawks quick strike attack. Early in the 2nd quarter, with great field position, the Panthers completed a 10 play, 57-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run by junior Ty Thompson to extend the lead to 14-0.
Late in the second quarter with an opportunity to answer, Viera converted two 4th downs during a 12 play drive only to have a Trey Schaneville 29-yard field goal attempt blocked by Whop Philyor.
A Garrett Kaminski interception of Dane Frantzen late in the first half provided Viera with another chance to cut into the Panther lead. A Schaneville 43-yard field goal was blocked by Bryce Jenkins with seconds remaining to seal a Plant 14-0 halftime lead.
The Panthers opened up a 21-point 3rd quarter barrage with a 13 play, 85-yard drive capped by a Dane Frantzen (225 total yards & 2 TD) 24-yard touchdown run for a 21-0 lead.
Late in the 3rd quarter, the Panthers rushing onslaught continued in the third quarter as Ty Thompson sped past the Hawks for a 68-yard rushing touchdown for a 28-0 lead.
Moments later, a 34-yard rush by Thompson (195 yards & 2 TD) set up a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Kyle Trina leading to a 35-0 Plant lead. The extra point triggered the running clock before the end of the 3rd quarter.
With the victory, Plant (11-0) advances to the state semifinal. The Panthers will host Bartram Trail next week.
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