Lee County hammers Dr. Phillips

Georgia’s defending 6A State Champion Lee County overcame three first quarter turnovers and scored 35 unanswered points in a 35-3 thrashing of Florida 8A State Champion Dr. Phillips Saturday in Leesburg, Georgia.

Lee County’s Preston Simmons ran for three touchdowns (17, 6 and 12 yards) and the Trojan defense frustrated Dr. Phillips, holding the Panthers to -21 yards rushing.

The Trojans also registered seven quarterback sacks, including one that resulted in a 16-yard fumble return for a touchdown on the Panthers opening drive of the second half.

Dr. Phillips (0-1) had plenty of momentum in the first quarter after Jaquarri Powell recovered a fumble on Lee County’s first play to set the Panthers up at the Trojans’ 35.

DP was forced to punt after three plays.

Lee County then fumbled the return, which was recovered by Japerri Powell at the nine-yard line, but the Panthers had to settle for a 26-yard field goal by Riley Stephens for a 3-0 lead.

On Lee County’s ensuing drive, Stephen Dix gave the Panthers another lift with a sack and a fumble recovery at the Lee County 41-yard line.

Aa holding call and a sack on fourth down killed the Panthers final scoring threat of the day.

Lee County (2-0) outgained Dr. Phillips offensively, 284-21, while the Panthers were victimized by 16 penalties for 153 yards.

Dr. Phillips will host Timber Creek, who lost 48-0 to Oviedo in its season opener, Friday night, kickoff is set for 7 p.m.