VENICE (SNN-TV) – We head to Powell-Davis Stadium in Venice for our game of the week, as the undefeated Venice Indians host the 1 and 2 Palmetto Tigers on Friday night at 7:30.
Last week both teams were victorious. Venice defeated Sarasota on the road 49-13 despite turning the ball over 3 times, while Palmetto picked up their first one on the season in a rivalry game with Manatee, 27-9.
These two teams have not met since the 2018-2019 season when Palmetto lost to Venice 56-28, at Harllee Stadium. According the FHSAA, the Indians are #1 in the state in RPI, backing up the fact that Venice plays a strong schedule. Palmetto Head Coach Dave Marino realizes Venice as a powerhouse, but expects a great effort from his Tigers.
“We know how great Venice is. We’re just going to try to hang with them and see how we can do.”
The Tigers will take the field on Friday in Venice possibly without starting QB Zander Smith, who suffered a concussion last week vs. Manatee and is currently in protocol. But, good news for Palmetto, they have a capable backup in Zymarrion “Nooka” Lang, executing multiple scoring drives last week following Smith’s exit. Venice Head Coach John Peacock liked what he saw from Lang and knows he brings a special skillset to the table.
“We were super impressed by him. We thought he was very, very athletic and mobile. He threw some nice balls. So, they’re very fortunate to have two guys who can run their offense and do the things that they do.”
Despite the newest age of the Palmetto offense being turned, Venice hasn’t skirted from its rushing attack all year. The Indians have relied heavily on RB Da’marion Escort. In the first 3 games, the senior has rushed for exactly 300 yards and 4 touchdowns on a 50 carries. Escort pins his success on the Indians offense’s blocking ability.
“I think it’s mostly because of our offensive line and our wide receivers. Our team’s offense does a job, we do a good job of blocking and doing good for others, so.”
With the fresh face at QB for Palmetto and the recent turnover issues for Venice, this game may be closer than what it seems on paper. One thing is for certain the intensity in Powell-Davis stadium will not be lacking.
“Obviously emotions are high. They’re going to come with it, we’re going to come with it. So, yeah, the emotions are very high.”
