Apopka Spring Jamboree

[DarterBlue2]

Took place at Deltona Pine Ridge School. It featured: Apopka, Orange City University and the host team Pine Ridge.  Orange City University in the past three years is probably the best Central Florida team to not make the playoffs. Pine Ridge, on the other hand, has been an average team at best. Each team played two quarters with the other two teams. In the first two quarters against Pine Ridge, Apopka scored on five of its six possessions winning 35-7.  In the final six and a half minutes of the second quarter, Apopka cleared its bench but was still able to score with its second stringers in. In its second two quarters against Orange City University, Apopka scored on six of its eight possessions (actually scoring seven times but one was called back on a block in the back) to win 42-13.  

The takeaway - Apopka's offense has come a long way in the two weeks since the spring scrimmage. Part of this is the fact that the talent was not divided into two teams. However, it is obvious that there was significant improvement in the play of the offensive line. The defense, for the most part stopped the run effectively, but gave up a few big plays through the air. In both games Apopka used both the single wing and spread sets. It employed more of the latter against Pine Ridge and more of the former against University. It moved the ball effectively from both formations. While neither Jackson nor Jacoryan is Zack Darlington, both have the ability to play a more conventional quarterback role than some of the QBs/FBs employed in recent memory. If Apopka decides to mix it up in the regular season, the offense has a chance to be as good as it was in 2012.The kicker continues to improve nailing all 11 extra points. While he did not attempt any field goals, my sense is that he would probably be good from 35 yards out or less. 

Despite having one of its key weapons out with injury, this Apopka squad has a lot of potential. No, its defense will not rival Wekiva's. However, the team has the potential to put enough points on the board in its games that it may not be a factor. Late August is a long way away, so much could change. However, as of now, I am optimistic about this team's chances come the playoffs.

[Dan in Daytona]

Damn Darter, Apopka sure spanked a couple Volusia county schools last night. Not really shocked by the outcome just a little disappointed on how easy it must have been for the BlueDarters to shred those outmanned defenses. 

[DarterBlue2]

2 hours ago, Dan in Daytona said:

Damn Darter, Apopka sure spanked a couple Volusia county schools last night. Not really shocked by the outcome just a little disappointed on how easy it must have been for the BlueDarters to shred those outmanned defenses. 

Yeah, it was an easy workout for the Apopka offense. University showed sparks of being decent on both sides of the ball, but eventually just did not have enough to make the half competitive. During the four quarters of play, the Apopka defense recovered two fumbles (one each against Pine Ridge and University), and an interception against University. University's second score was recorded after they recovered a fumble by the Apopka second stringers late in the second quarter of their game and then drove the ball nicely against the backups on defense. Their attempted extra point was blocked by the Apopka special teams. 

I expect the KOC against Mainland should be a lot more competitive and hope you attend, as I intend to do so myself. We can grab some wings and brew before or after the game if you are up to it. That game should be a good benchmark of where the two team stand going into the season. 

[Guest]

Good stuff Darter....It still shocks me why any parent would allow their child to leave that PROGRAM.