Battle at Bryant — Lakeland vs Jesuit Key Spring Takeaways

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Dreadnaughts hosted another exciting spring jamboree on Saturday, bringing in four teams for some early action. The headliner was Lakeland vs Jesuit, a game that had plenty of buzz going in — and lived up to it. Jesuit came in with a chip on their shoulder after last year's matchup and walked away with a 30-17 win. Here are some takeaways from the action:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jesuit Looks Like a Complete Team</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Tigers brought a veteran feel on both sides of the ball. Their offensive line held up well against Lakeland's talented edge rushers, including 2027 four-star [player_tooltip player_id='1671138' first='Santana' last='Harvey'] and fast-rising 2027 [player_tooltip player_id='1655458' first='Drew' last='Sapp']. The skill players made plays, and the defense was sharp and disciplined. This is clearly a well-coached group that will be a problem this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1206219' first='Will' last='Griffin'] Has Taken a Step Forward</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jesuit's 2026 QB and Florida commit looked more composed than ever. He maneuvered the pocket with confidence, made some throws off-platform, and dropped a couple of beautiful deep balls. While he did throw two picks, Griffin's arm talent, mobility, and overall command of the offense showed clear growth from last season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1419103' first='Kaden' last='Henderson'] is That Guy</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It's one thing to watch the film, but it's another to see Henderson dominate in person. The 2027 linebacker has added size and is now more comfortable coming off the edge — where he made several impact plays. He's already a name, but college coaches better lock in before it's too late.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Lakeland Has Talent—But Needs More in the Trenches</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It was clear Lakeland missed the presence of four-star LB [player_tooltip player_id='1247490' first='Malik' last='Morris']. The Dreadnaughts still have plenty of playmakers, but where they struggled was in the trenches, especially in the pass game. 2027 QB Joaquin Kavoklis showed flashes but couldn't get into rhythm consistently. That said, the RB duo of [player_tooltip player_id='1581905' first='Jadarius' last='Dobie'] and Ah'Narri Cooper looks dangerous, and the defense had some bright spots with USF commit CJ Cresser, LB Ziggly Riley, and 2026 DB Crise Davis, who had an interception.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kelvin Hendrix Could Be Lakeland's X-Factor</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Replacing UNC commit Shanard Clower won't be easy — but new transfer Kelvin Hendrix (2027) looks ready for the spotlight. He lined up everywhere, making plays as a pass catcher, wildcat QB, and vertical threat. His versatility will be key as this team carves out its new identity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jesuit Has Offensive Weapons to Watch</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Tigers' offense didn't miss a beat with Griffin leading the charge. 2026 WR [player_tooltip player_id='1727583' first='Kaleb' last='Smith'] and 2027 ATHs Hezekiah Davis and Michael Vernon were electric. Each brought their own spark, giving Jesuit a dynamic trio that will be tough to contain throughout the fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->