ROCKLEDGE

The Rockledge High defense used an overwhelming effort against the visiting Satellite Scorpions to post a 20-7 victory on Friday night.

The Rockledge defensive front frustrated the Satellite High quarterback tandem of Tyler Allen and Cole Schell all night. The Raiders racked up seven sacks and two interceptions, one of which was returned 90 yards for a touchdown by T.J. Rodriguez on the final play of the first half.

With both teams struggling to move the ball in the first half, the opening score came on a blocked punt and recovery in the end zone by Rockledge’s Traybion Smith in the second quarter. Rodriguez’s interception return gave the Raiders a 14-0 lead at halftime. The final Rockledge score came on a 70-yard pass from Alex Adler to Joe Brown.

After picking up just one first down in the first half, Satellite was able to put together a scoring drive to open the fourth quarter on a 20-yard pass from Schell to Joey Hibbard. The late comeback attempt ended with Allen throwing his second interception of the game in the end zone after a 50-yard drive got them to the goal line.

With Rockledge’s offense scoring just six points, the Raiders’ defense and special teams dominated, scoring 14 points and holding Satellite to 151 total yards.

KEY PLAYERS: Aundrey Strong had three sacks and a forced fumble for Rockledge.

T.J. Rodriguez had a 90-yard interception return for a touchdown with time expiring in the first half.

THEY SAID IT: “They stepped up and played super. Those kids play hard and they’re well-coached. Pat (Lusk) does a great job with them,” Rockledge coach Larry Laskowski said of his defense.

WHAT’S NEXT: Rockledge plays at Viera at 7:30 next Friday. Satellite will host Heritage at 7:30 next Friday.

RECORDS: Rockledge 2-1 overall (1-0 in Class 5A, District 13), Satellite 1-2 overall (0-1 in Class 5A, District 13).