The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Eagles JV team secured a hard-fought 13-8 victory over Piper High School in a game that tested both teams’ resilience on Wednesday, Oct. 16. The Eagles’ defense played a pivotal role making key stops throughout the game, while their offense found just enough rhythm to secure the win.
In the first quarter, MSD’s defense set the tone. Linebacker Joey Reyes (42) blitzed relentlessly, putting pressure on Piper’s quarterback from the opening drive. His efforts paid off when the defense snagged an early interception, setting the Eagles up just five yards from the end zone.
“I think I did really good blitzing,” Reyes said. “All the linemen did their job, and us getting in the backfield was the best thing we did.”
Moments later, running back Jovanni Defalco (3) capitalized on the turnover, powering into the end zone for a touchdown. With the extra point, MSD took an early 7-0 lead, and the home crowd erupted with excitement.
Piper struggled to respond, as their offense stalled for much of the first half. The Eagles’ defense, led by Reyes and his fellow linemen, kept Piper contained.
Midway through the second quarter, Piper started to find their rhythm offensively, moving the ball downfield with short passes and runs. However, MSD’s defense stood firm with big tackles from Jeffrey Louis (12) and a critical sack by Drake Walker (4). A false start penalty pushed MSD’s offense back, but Piper could not capitalize before the half, leaving the score at 7-0.
“I think today I did the best with communication,” quarterback Sampsen Orlinsky said. “With all my teammates, the sidelines, coaches–everything.”
In the third quarter, Piper came out stronger, determined to close the gap. After a touchdown from the Eagles, Piper drove deep into MSD territory and eventually scored their first touchdown, making it a tight 13-8 game after an added safety point. Piper’s defense stepped up as well, stopping a few MSD drives cold, and the pressure began to mount.
The Eagles’ defense continued to make crucial and hard-hitting plays, with Walker sacking Piper’s quarterback. Even though Piper started to find openings, the Eagles found ways to bounce back.
“There were many times where everyone got down and there were bad plays,” coach José Reyes said. “They came together more and that made the difference.”
As the clock ticked into the fourth quarter, MSD’s offense found life again. Orlinsky, who had been quiet for much of the second half, rallied the Eagles. A crucial run by defensive back Landon Johnson (22) put MSD in scoring position, and a seven-yard gain that secured another first down. With time winding down, Orlinsky connected with Walker for a key touchdown, giving the Eagles a 13-8 lead.
Piper launched a last drive and used a combination of short passes and runs to move the ball deep into MSD territory.
With just minutes remaining, Piper faced a crucial third down at the Eagles’ 20-yard line. A false start penalty pushed them back, and on the next play, MSD’s defense stepped up once more, stopping Piper for a loss of two yards.
The final whistle blew and the score was in favor of MSD, resting at a win of 13-8. It was a gritty performance, but one that highlighted the team’s ability to persevere through mistakes and keep each other motivated.
“I’ve got to talk to my O-line,” Orlinsky said. “Make sure they improve on what they’re doing and get them to do what they gotta do.”
While the Eagles celebrated their victory, they know there is more work to be done as they prepare for their next game. The next game for the JV Eagles was Wednesday, Oct. 23 against Coral Glades High School at 5:30 p.m., with the Eagles losing 0-18.
