Football Recap: Manatee Finds Playoff Glory Versus Charlotte

It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but Manatee had no problem doing just that on Friday. They walked away with a 28-21 victory over the Charlotte Fightin' Tarpons. The win continues a trend for the Hurricanes in their matchups with the Fightin' Tarpons: they've now won four in a row.

Keith Smith

Rushing Touchdowns (Career)

11/14/25 vs Charlotte	2
10/31/25 vs Riverview Sarasota	1
10/24/25 vs Braden River	1
09/26/25 @ Pinellas Park	1
08/29/25 vs Southeast	1

Keith Smith had a dynamite game, rushing for 66 yards and two touchdowns. Those two rushing touchdowns gave him a new career-high.

Another reason for the win was Manatee's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for ten sacks. It was truly a group effort as Storm Hense, Davion Bryant, Carter Robinson, and Ronin Dangler picked up two apiece. Hense is becoming a predictor of Manatee's success: when he posts at least one sack the team is undefeated (and 2-6 when he doesn't).

Manatee's victory bumped their record up to 5-6. As for Charlotte, their defeat ended a three-game streak of away wins and brought them to 6-5.

Coming up, Manatee will head out to face off against Cape Coral at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. The Hurricanes' defense better be ready for this one: the Seahawks have averaged an impressive 38.4 points per game this season. Charlotte does not have any more games scheduled as of now.