Raiders hope to turn over new leaf

Posted Sep 29, 2009 by Adam Adkins

Updated Sep 29, 2009 at 03:02 PM

Plant City coach Jason Strunk has been hearing the same noises from his players during film sessions in recent weeks – moans and groans. The reason for those noises have been the same, too – players watching the latest string of Plant City turnovers.

The Raiders have had plenty of trouble holding on to the football this season, committing 13 turnovers during their 1-3 start. And that’s not counting the countless other times players have put the ball on the turf, only to be fortunate enough to fall on it quicker than the opposition.

“It’s been very, very frustrating, to say the least,” Strunk said.

The worst part about the turnovers (six fumbles lost, seven interceptions) is that most of the miscues have come inside the red zone. The Raiders have consistently moved the ball and are averaging 304 yards of total offense per game, but haven’t been able to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

“Once we get to the red zone,” Strunk said, “it turns into the cold zone.”

There have been some positives, though. Sophomore running back Dazmond Patterson posted his third consecutive 100-yard rushing effort in last week’s loss to Newsome. Sophomore quarterback Bennie Coney continues to make strides (he’s averaging 152 yards passing per game), though Strunk said he needs to make some better decisions. And Strunk has been pleased with the way the Raiders defense has played thus far.

Strunk is confident his team can turn things around, and the Raiders are hoping it starts Friday at Chamberlain (0-4).

“We’re right there,” Plant City junior tight end/defensive end Jordan Prestwood said. “We’ve just got to get over the hump.”