The Pirates fail to capitalize on their chances and lose 10-0, spoiling quarterback Josh Johnson's debut.
By IZZY GOULD
Published September 17, 2005
DADE CITY - Pasco is staring at the toughest stretch of its schedule with plenty of unanswered questions.
There is one certainty - Pasco's youthful lineup is taking its lumps.
The Pirates played with passion but were outmatched in a 10-0 loss to Sebring on Friday at W.F. Edwards Stadium.
First, coach Dale Caparaso unveiled his much-hyped freshman quarterback Josh Johnson. Johnson's father, Issac, led Pasco to the Class 3A state title in 1992. Josh Johnson was a composed leader, though his numbers failed to reflect it. He completed 4 of 9 passes for 53 yards and rushed eight times for 9.
"Josh is a unique kid who has a very unique family and a very unique father," Caparaso said. "What he did did not surprise us. He hung in there. He's a tough kid. We believe in him, and we still believe in this football team."
Pasco failed to seize opportunities while Sebring capitalized.
Sebring marched to the Pirates' 19-yard line on its first drive. Pasco's Mike Onyskin provided some hope when he recovered a Blue Streaks fumble.
The Pirates whipped around and marched to the Sebring 8. On the second play of the drive, Johnson threw a 20-yard pass to Darrell Davis to reach midfield. Sebring was penalized 15 yards for a late hit on Johnson.
That ultimately led to a 25-yard field-goal attempt, which was blocked.
Sebring finally broke through late in the second quarter.
Blue Streaks linebacker Austin Andrews recovered a fumble on the Pasco 18. Paul Ashley made a 22-yard field goal with nine seconds left before the half.
Sebring added a touchdown late after both teams struggled on defense. Blue Streaks running back Willie Lowe scored from 2 yards out.
Lowe had 19 carries for 53 yards, and teamed with quarterback A.C. Wilson, who led all rushers with 81.
