North Suncoast: News and notes

By IZZY GOULD and DAVID MURPHY, Times Staff Writers
Published September 23, 2007

Sideline assistance

Yes, that was Florida State quarterback Drew Weatherford whispering plays in John Benedetto's ear Friday night. The former Land O'Lakes star walked up and down the sideline, talking to his former coaches and the new crop of players, including youngest brother Stevie.

Weatherford and Seminoles teammate Caz Piurowski - another former Gator - were visiting while enjoying a bye week.

"Last year Drew helped call plays in the Mitchell game, and we scored 48 points," Benedetto said. "(Friday night), it didn't work so well."

Gators on the mend

Benedetto has pointed to injuries as one reason for Land O'Lakes' struggles. Yes, the Gators are 3-1, but they easily could be 0-4 if not for a three-point win against Wesley Chapel, some fourth-quarter heroics at Zephyrhills and a 5-minute stretch at Springstead.

Land O'Lakes should get some help this week with the return of Chris Singleton from an ACL injury last spring. Singleton has been running on his own at practice but hasn't taken reps with the team.

"Chris is a pretty darn good running back," Benedetto said. "A lot of people haven't seen him."

Orr at fullback

That big man rumbling for an 11-yard score against Wiregrass Ranch? Sophomore Leon Orr, all 6-foot-6, 290 pounds of him, lined up at fullback throughout the game.

Will it continue?

"I should have done it over the summer," Gulf coach Jay Fulmer said.

Contact us

Izzy Gould can be reached at izzygould@gmail.com or (813) 909-4612. David Murphy can be reached atdmurphy@sptimes.com or (352) 848-1407.

[Last modified September 22, 2007, 23:59:16]