Kickoff Classic roundup: Drew LaPlante tosses four TDs in Central win

On Friday, August 14, 2024, Fort Pierce Central's Drew LaPlante led his team to a dominant 34-6 victory over Port St. Lucie High School in the Kickoff Classic. LaPlante, who was his team's primary target throughout the game, completed four touchdowns on the night. Two plays after missing a potential scoring opportunity, LaPlante connected with Antonio Hill for a 44-yard touchdown as the game's first point.

Throughout the first half, Central's starters dominated, allowing only three fourth-down conversions and forcing a Jaguars' fumble. The Cobras' defense stepped up in the second half, with Von Adams recording a game-changing 99-yard touchdown return to secure the winning margin. However, the team was not without its shortcomings, as they committed eight penalties in the first half, which ultimately resulted in three Jaguars first downs.

Despite these issues, LaPlante expressed confidence in his team's ability to carry their offensive execution into the remainder of the season. Port St. Lucie will return home to open the regular season, while Fort Pierce Central will host Legacy in their next game.