It was a homecoming game to remember for the Ponte Vedra Sharks, as they defeated the Menendez Falcons in convincing fashion, 40-0, on Thursday, Sept. 19.
No matter what the Sharks (3-1) tried on offense, it seemed to be successful both through the air and on the ground.
Drew Price scored three touchdowns on the night, tossing touchdowns to Cam Tietze and Caleb Stanton, while also breaking free for a 75-yard touchdown run to open the second half and extend the Sharks’ lead to 31-0.
Tietze and Stanton are both sophomores and continue to develop into even more major roles with each week that passes.
The Sharks had such a lead that Cole Rosendahl came into the game at quarterback as Price’s night was done, and he was quick to credit his offensive line for his performance in the game.
“I wish sometimes I could just give the ball to them, because they did all the hard work tonight,” Price said. “I totally trust my boys.”
Whether it was passing protection or opening running lanes for Brian Case to run through, the Sharks’ offensive line controlled the line of scrimmage throughout.
That domination up front translated to the defensive side of the ball for the Sharks as well, en route to a shutout where the Falcons struggled to even reach the redzone.
The Sharks were getting such a push up front that the Falcons got to where they did not even attempt to run the ball, which allowed the Sharks’ secondary to be aggressive in their coverage, and junior safety Fion Day took advantage with an interception before the half.
It is a veteran group along the front seven for the Sharks and when things are clicking, pressure seems to come from everywhere.
“We’re definitely a little older, which helps with leadership and accountability,” junior defensive lineman J.P. Dolan said. “It also helps that everyone is a dog out there.”
The Sharks will be riding a three-game winning streak heading into district play next week as they go on the road to face Fleming Island High.
