Tennessee QB commit Derrick Baker accounts for five touchdowns in Milton's 49-46 win over Gainesville

Milton went on the road Friday night and held on for a 49-46 win over Gainesville in a matchup between two of Georgia's top high school programs, with Tennessee quarterback commit Derrick Baker at the center of the outcome. Gainesville led for much of the first half before Milton surged in the third quarter, and the teams traded scores in the fourth until a late field goal from Michigan kicker commit Ryan Jung put Milton ahead. Gainesville had one last chance, but four-star 2028 offensive lineman Joshua Evans stripped the ball and Milton recovered to end it.

Baker accounted for most of Milton's offense, finishing with 313 total yards and five touchdowns. He completed 11 of 21 passes for 197 yards and three scores, and he ran 10 times for 116 yards and two more touchdowns, including a 60-yard run early in the third quarter that helped swing the game. The report noted his size and power as a runner, breaking tackles and forcing the defense to account for him as both a passer and a rusher against a talented Gainesville defense.

He had plenty of help. Indiana receiver commit Jordan Carrasquillo caught five passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns, running back Sheldon Atchinson rushed for 142 yards and a score on 14 carries, and Boston College linebacker commit Blaize Battaglia recorded 17 tackles. For Gainesville, Clemson quarterback commit Kharim Hughley threw for 101 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 73 yards before an injury early in the second quarter ended his night, and his team stayed in the game the rest of the way without him.

For Tennessee, the takeaway is the continued production from its quarterback commit in a high-level game full of Power Four prospects. Baker did not need volume passing to control the night; he was efficient enough through the air and decisive as a runner, producing touchdowns both ways when Milton needed a response. It was one performance in a crowded showcase, but it reinforced why the Volunteers have reason to be encouraged by what he brings.