Dunedin gives up six turnovers in 46-6 loss to Jacksonville

DUNEDIN- It wasn't the pretty beginning the Dunedin Pirates thought they would get off to last Saturday night. 

Coming off a 3-8 season in the Pirates' first season in the Florida Football Alliance, Dunedin was hoping to start off the season with a win this time around in 2018. Instead, the Pirates' home opener was marred by a myriad of turnovers as Dunedin fell 46-6 to the Jacksonville X Men last Saturday at Dunedin Memorial Stadium. 

The X Men (1-0) were coming off the heels of a 34-0 preseason loss to the Metro Atlanta Horsemen a few weeks ago, but Jacksonville quickly bounced back and were able to put together a solid all around game, led by quarterback Amp Woods, running back Tremayne Edwards and tight end John 'JT' Campbell. 

The Pirates' defense was a bright spot, as the team forced six turnovers and sacked Woods three times. Dunedin (0-1) started former Robinson High School quarterback Antonio Hampton, who had a rough go in his first start. Hampton completed 7-of-16 passes for 159 yards and one touchdown, but also threw three crucial interceptions. Three fumbles also killed any momentum Dunedin tried to build throughout the game. 

Dunedin's lone score was on a 33-yard connection from Hampton to second-year starter Chris Norman. Another second-year player, Alex Jennings, led the team with 91 yards receiving on three catches. Former Dunedin High player Colin Grantham stood out on defense, by forcing and recovering a fumble on the night. Defensive backs Jeremy Wilson (2) and Michael Devine (1) accounted for the team's three interceptions. 

Dunedin's away game versus the Hollywood Browns has been postponed to March 3rd due to facility issues in Miramar, FL. The Pirates will travel up north next weekend to face the Port Orange Stallions (0-1). Game will take place at the Coraci Sports Complex and kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. ET.