Mustangs fall in season opener

The Lakewood Ranch High football team opened its season with a 39-6 loss to Tampa Jesuit Aug. 28. 

The Mustangs, who narrowly fell to the Tigers in double overtime last season, found themselves trailing 13-0 early in the first quarter. Tampa Jesuit scored on its opening possession on Malik Davis' 65-yard touchdown run.

Lakewood fumbled the ball on its opening possession, but Tampa Jesuit was unable to capitalize after missing a 32-yard field goal. On its second possession, sophomore Justin Curtis threw an interception, which was returned 38 yards to set up a 10-yard touchdown run by Luke Wichman. 

A second Curtis interception later in the first quarter led to Tampa Jesuit's third touchdown, giving the Tigers a 19-0 lead. 

The Mustangs responded, forcing a pair of turnovers in the second quarter. Lakewood running back Justin Fischer found the end zone on a 4 yard carry with 5:59 left in the first half for the Mustangs lone touchdown. 

Tampa Jesuit scored three more touchdowns in the second half to secure the victory. 

Lakewood returns to action Sept. 4 versus Bayshore.