Shorecest Football Learns From Kickoff Classic Mistakes

ST. PETERSBURG – A high school Kickoff Classic, a prep version of an NFL preseason game, is just like its NFL comparison: It's a glorified scrimmage, a practice game.

So when Shorecrest Prep was beating Cambrige at halftime, going toe-to-toe offensively with Cambridge, longtime Chargers coach Phil Hayford was pretty happy up 28-21.

But the second half was a nightmare for the Chargers as they were unable to score a point while Cambridge capitalized on Shorecrest turnovers.

It was a practice game, so while the score counted the loss did not. Hayford hopes to use the lessons learned as the Chargers begin the regular season Friday.

"We never had stuff like that happen," Hayford said of the second half collapse. "That was something that manifested itself. We lost our focus."

On Shorecrest's second possession, a fumble led to a Cambridge touchdown. In the final seconds of the third quarter, Cambridge linebacker Brandon Park read a play, blasted through the line untouched, grabbed a Shorecrest pitchout in mid-air and raced for a 28-yard touchdown that put Cambridge up 43-28.

"We needed that Kickoff Classic," Hayford said. "We didn't tackle well. Tackling has been our top priority every practice this week. We made sure everyone had at least 20-25 tackles so we can work on that."

But Hayford wasn't totally upset with the loss. He thought two players in particular shined and as a result, should see loads of playing time this year.

Quarterback Alex Drexler played quarterback running the Wildcat formation and Hayford raved about his play.

"He was one of the positives," Hayford said.

Hayford also lauded Jake Kohler, who played both offensive and defensive lines.

"I don't think he came off the field," Hayford said of Kohler. "He did a great job. His blocks were all at the waste level or lower and on defense, he was constantly coming after ball carriers and he was a split-second away from a sack."