Pirates defeat Texas Colts in Florida Bowl XVIII at National Bowl Weekend

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS- When Tarpon Springs needed a big play, they got it.

They needed every big play in order to defeat the Texas Colts of the United Summer Football Association (USFA) runner-up in the Florida Bowl XVIII championship game.

Quarterback Nate Munson threw for 232 yards, rushed for 64 and scored four total touchdowns to lead the Pirates past the Colts 26-23 at Lake Brantley High School. 

In what was the team’s first action since losing to the Miami Magic City Bulls 10-6 in the FFA 2.0 playoffs back in May, Tarpon Springs didn’t look like they missed a beat.

A standout newbie to the team was game MVPs linebacker Marvion Harris (11 tackles) and wide receiver Cyle Kurina (six catches, 69 yards). Also standing out was new addition Jordan Wiggins, who caught two passes for 82 yards and a touchdown. Malik Johnson caught three passes for 44 yards in the victory.

The defense came up huge in the second half as defensive tackle Jabari Dean caused major havoc in the backfield. Dean finished with two sacks in the win. It would be Darrius Small coming up with the huge strip fumble takeaway in sealing up the national