Staff Report

Franklin Central overwhelms Southport early in sectional win

INDIANAPOLIS — Franklin Central needed only one quarter to take command Friday night, erupting for 36 points in the opening period on its way to a 43-0 sectional football victory over Southport.

The Flashes paired their early scoring barrage with a defensive shutout, leaving the Cardinals facing a 36-0 deficit after 12 minutes.

Franklin Central added seven points in the second quarter to carry a 43-0 advantage into halftime. Neither team scored after the break as the Flashes preserved the shutout and advanced in the postseason.

Rian Frazier provided a big play on the ground, turning his lone carry into a 73-yard touchdown. Ezekiel Scruggs added 52 yards and a touchdown on eight attempts. Franklin Central’s posted statistics credited the team with 153 rushing yards on 14 carries.

Quarterback Caiden Marsden completed two of four passes for 28 yards and a touchdown. Dennis Mitchell Jr. contributed a 64-yard kickoff return for a score, giving the Flashes another scoring threat on special teams.

Franklin Central improved to 4-6 and will face Decatur Central next. Southport finished its season 2-8.