BAKER — The last time a Matt Brunson group started 7-0, a state title ensued.
That appears to be a realistic possibility for this year’s Gators, who after Friday’s 22-19 comeback win over Northview have outscored foes 244-92 en route to a 7-0 record.
Wyatt Straight was the workhorse in the win, turning 17 carries into 138 yards and touchdowns No. 10 and 11 on the season. That included the game-winner after trailing 13-7 entering the fourth quarter. Quarterback Justice Baldwin added 117 rushing yards, a touchdown and a two-point conversion while connecting with Riley Renfro five times for 109 passing yards.
Baker’s goal all year has been to practice on Thanksgiving, meaning the Gators are Final 4 bound. But the Gators are ranked 11th by the FHSAA power ranks and not guaranteed any playoff games at Doug Griffith Memorial Stadium, where they’re 4-0.
They’re also not respected in the USA Today poll and Florida Power Rankings Index, meaning there’s plenty of work to be done. Remaining on the schedule is Zion Chapel (3-3), Freeport (4-1) and Port St. Joe (2-3), all games Baker will be favored in.
The Gators have found success this year by committing to a more balanced offensive attack. In 2020, the Gators ran the ball 93% of the time and had a 5,258-521 disparity in rushing yards to passing yards. This year the rushing attack still holds a 70% time share of plays, but Baldwin’s 1,289 passing yards and 16 touchdown tosses run hand in hand with the ground game’s 1,388 yards and 17 scores.
Translation: Baker can still bury teams with the run game, but opposing defenses can’t key on the run game without Baldwin’s arm hurting them.
The Gators are just one of three unbeaten teams in the rural class and the only 7-0 team, so they’ll likely rise from No. 11 in the FHSAA power ranks on Tuesday. Next up they host Zion Chapel (3-3).
This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Baker football flashes balanced offense, improves to 7-0
Reporting by Seth Stringer, Northwest Florida Daily News / Northwest Florida Daily News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
