Fort Walton Beach High School’s varsity football team opened their season with a 14-0 victory over West Florida on Friday, September 6, 2024, combining a strong rushing attack with solid defensive play.
- The Vikings’ offense accumulated 281 yards on the ground. Senior running back Jereme Earl led with 104 yards on 17 carries, including a touchdown.
- Senior Ramon Sampson scored both of the team’s touchdowns, gaining 32 yards on 7 carries.
After a scoreless first quarter, Fort Walton Beach scored in the second quarter and again in the third, establishing the 14-0 lead that would hold until the game’s end.
Several players contributed to the Vikings’ ground game. Senior quarterback Anthony Gassaway rushed for 70 yards on 12 carries, while senior Grant Joyner added 48 yards on 11 attempts. Junior KJ Robertson contributed 27 rushing yards and a 22-yard kick return.
The Vikings’ defense effectively contained West Florida’s offense. Freshman Deshawn Simmons recorded 7 tackles, including one for a loss. Junior Rome Kendrick made 6 tackles, 2 for loss, and recorded the team’s only sack of the game.
In the secondary, junior Terrance Jefferson broke up two passes, while senior Brandon Schwind forced a fumble. The Vikings’ defense limited West Florida to 174 total yards for the game.
- On special teams, senior Tony Lopez converted both extra point attempts and averaged 46.7 yards on three kickoffs, including one touchback.
West Florida’s offense struggled against Fort Walton Beach’s defense. Senior Val Johnson led the Jaguars’ ground game with 79 yards on 10 carries, including a 55-yard run. However, Johnson also lost a fumble during the game.
Coming up next: Fort Walton Beach High School takes on Booker T. Washington High on September 12, 2024 at 7:00p (Away)
