By Casz “C2” Clayton

Palm Beach Gardens, Fl- Atlantic High School wasted no time making a statement in its season opener, controlling both sides of the line of scrimmage in a 49–19 road victory over Palm Beach Gardens on Friday night game of the week.

The Eagles dominance began up front, where their offensive line consistently created lanes and kept quarterback Pedro Martinez upright. Martinez took full advantage, opening the scoring with a short touchdown run on a “tush push” midway through the first quarter. After forcing a Gardens punt, Atlantic extended its lead when Dereion Darby found the end zone, followed by a successful two-point conversion to make it 15–0.

Moments later, Martinez showcased his playmaking ability on a broken play, absorbing two hits before breaking free for a highlight-reel touchdown scramble that stretched the lead to 22–0.

Palm Beach Gardens managed to cut into the deficit before halftime, but Atlantic still carried a comfortable 22–7 lead into the locker room.

The Gators briefly seized momentum early in the second half when Wilfred Coicou intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown. However, the missed extra point kept the score at 22–13.

From there, Atlantic’s offensive line took over once again, fueling three straight scoring drives behind a relentless rushing attack. Martinez and his backs capitalized, pushing the lead to 42–13 by the end of the third quarter.

The defensive front was just as dominant, pressuring the Gardens backfield throughout the night and forcing rushed throws, short gains, and costly mistakes. Even when the Gators found the end zone in the fourth quarter, Atlantic’s cushion was far too wide to overcome.

The Eagles closed out the victory 49–19, showcasing balance, physicality, and control at the line of scrimmage.

With the win, Atlantic improves to 1–0 and now turns its attention to a road trip north to face Jonesboro High (Ga.). Meanwhile, Palm Beach Gardens (0–1) continues its six-game homestand next week against Santaluces.