1999 5A Title Game - Rutherford vs Lakeland

[OldSchoolLion 1,591]

Rutherford was a powerhouse program in the 90's and had to beat Columbia and defending champion Osceola to reach the title game.  These 2 teams met in the state semis in Lakeland in 1996.  Lakeland won that game 34-28 and nearly lost it when a Rutherford receiver dropped a potential TD pass in the closing seconds.   

 

[skyway 128]

I remember being very worried walking into the stadium that night. Lakeland lost their three-year starting QB before this game. Then, the outcome solidified this as Lakeland's best ever team up through to 2005. Now, it's their third-best team ever. Great night for the Dreadnaughts!

[OldSchoolLion 1,591]

This is that Rutherford vs Lakeland semifinal(1996) I mentioned above.  Check out the last play at 51:30...Rutherford receiver drops the potential TD pass to close out the game.  Lakeland blew out St Thomas in the final.