SPANISH FORT, Ala. — Spanish Fort (3-2), the defending 5A state football champions, shut out Baldwin County (0-5) in a 24-0 win Friday night.

The Toros’ defensive effort halted Baldwin County’s attack on countless occasions and pleased head coach Mark Freeman.

“Our defense did a tremendous job for us. We prepared all week and our players executed the game plan. We played a much improved Baldwin County team. They did a great job tonight.”

Otis Smith dominated the game for a total of 83 yards on 20 carries and one touchdown. Smith’s 22-yard touchdown run came at the 1:57 mark of the first quarter. After Alexander Theodore’s 30-yard field goal at the 1:21 mark in the second quarter, the Toros led 10-0 going into intermission.

While the third quarter saw neither team score, the final two minutes of the game brought much excitement to the stadium. With fourth and goal on the 3-yard line, Spanish Fort quarterback, Joel Poe, scored on a quarterback keep at the 1:32 mark. Theodore’s extra point was good, increasing the score to 14-0. With one minute remaining in the contest, Spanish Fort safety Shane English picked off a Baldwin County pass and returned it for a 40-yard touchdown with only 48 seconds on the clock. Theodore once more connected on the extra point attempt, finalizing the score at 24-0.

Spanish Fort (3-2) hosts Faith Academy on Friday at 7 p.m., while the Tigers (0-5) are on the road, visiting Foley.