Pirates recovering from rough start

RECORD: 3-2.

OFFENSE: The Pirates are averaging 29 points a game thanks to their running attack, which is good for just over 7 yards per carry. Ryan McNally, Chianta Smith, Chris Bunch and Bam Cleveland have each scored rushing touchdowns, and Bunch has gained confidence at quarterback. But the backs struggled against then-ranked South Sumter and had a bad case of fumblitis against Dunnellon.

DEFENSE: An inexperienced group has been steady and has surrendered just 15 points a game. Seniors such as Josh Hall, Scott O'Steen, Charlie Slattery and McNally have been the anchors, but sophomore newcomer Cleveland leads the team with 42 tackles.

OVERALL: Give them credit for playing the toughest schedule in the county, which with an inexperienced group translated into two early losses. The Pirates are improving and the best may be yet to come.

TOP PLAYER: McNally is the leading rusher with 543 yards on 78 attempts. The senior also has scored five touchdowns and caught two passes. On defense, he has 28 tackles, has recovered a fumble, had an interception and broken up a pass.

PLAYOFF PROSPECTS: Good, but the Pirates are 1-1 in district play, with a win against 0-2 (in the district) Lecanto and a loss to 2-0 Dunnellon. They cannot afford to lose many more. Their fate will depend on remaining matchups with North Marion (0-1) and Citrus (1-0). The Pirates need to win the rest of their non-district games to secure an at-large bid if they can't gain one of the district's two automatic spots. GRADE: B+

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