The First Academy football's defense forces seven turnovers, tops Atlantic, 41-28

On the back of seven turnovers by its defense, four forced fumbles and three interceptions, The First Academy football added another statement win to its impressive resume and has moved to 5-0 on the season; handing Atlantic Community High its first loss of the season, 41-28.

“That is a very explosive offense and I thought our defense did a great job of causing those turnovers,” TFA coach Jeff Conaway said. “We invited a lot of those turnovers, but when they threw them to us and when we forced those fumbles, (it was) huge.”

TFA defensive back and Florida commit Devin Jackson led the turnover-happy Royals defense with two interceptions on the night and on offense it was the Royals rushing attack that took advantage of those turnovers. Running backs Dane Thompkins and Jaeyln Powell, along with quarterback Salomon Georges Jr., all rushed for two touchdowns on the night. 

Although the Royals' defense had a terrific night statistically and the offense took advantage of those short fields from the turnovers, Conaway thinks his players could have been sharper on the night but, overall, is happy with how they fought through adversity.

“I’m so very proud of both offense and defense, thought special teams made some good plays as well,” he said. “What a big victory for the TFA Royals, that’s a big-time football team. We all know that we didn't play our best, but we played good enough to win tonight, and that's all that matters. This team has been through a lot, and for these young men to be able to battle everything that they've battled and still come out here to win a game regardless of how polished or unpolished it may have looked, that's huge. To score that many points and to get that many turnovers against a very, very good football team, that's a big deal.”

Week Six will see The Royals will host its second Class 1A, District 6 matchup of the season, as the 2-2 Orlando Christian Prep Warriors head to Warden Stadium Sept. 27.