Quarterback Elias Pearl Jr. was nothing short of surgical, completing 17 of 23 passes for 239 yards and three touchdowns. His leadership and accuracy kept the Tigers’ defense on its heels for all four quarters.

In the run game,

 Bruce Blanden delivered a standout performance with 134 rushing yards on 18 carries, including a 23-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter that widened Port Charlotte’s lead and swung momentum firmly in the Pirates’ direction.

Wide receiver Dallas Lambert  provided a reliable target all night, turning in multiple chain-moving catches and a red-zone grab that set up one of the Pirates’ key scores. His route running and ability to create separation gave the offense a consistent spark.

The Pirates’ defense came ready to dominate. Senior linebacker Ahmad’dra Greene recorded 12 total tackles, including one for a loss, and delivered the forced fumble that ignited a key defensive stand in the third quarter.

Up front, defensive end Kadyn Palmer contributed two sacks, consistently disrupting the Tigers’ backfield and setting the tone with physical play at the line of scrimmage.

In the secondary, cornerback Ozias Dorsey came up with a momentum-shifting interception late in the second quarter, snatching away a potential scoring drive from Dunbar and firing up the home crowd.

The Pirates’ defensive energy complemented the offensive firestorm, turning stops into scoring opportunities and shutting down Dunbar’s attempts at a comeback.

Nearly 400 total yards of offense and a defense that forced turnovers and applied constant pressure show a team peaking at just the right time. Port Charlotte now turns its focus to the next playoff test. With momentum on their side and a community rallying behind them, expectations are high for another electrifying performance under the Friday night lights.

As the playoffs intensify, the Pirates are sending one clear message — they’re here to make a statement.