PEABODY — Peabody hosted Swampscott in its first home game of the season. Despite a big night from quarterback Luke Maglione, who threw for 252 yards, the Big Blue left with a 28-6 victory behind a strong performance from quarterback John von Barta and wide receiver Chase Groothuis.
Barta threw for 197 yards and four touchdowns to lead Swampscott. His favorite target was Groothuis, who caught two of those scores.
The Big Blue jumped out to a 14-0 lead during the first quarter. Barta first connected with Jack Duffy on the sideline. Duffy broke a tackle and raced into the end zone for the game’s opening score.
After forcing a three-and-out, Swampscott took over on Peabody’s 48-yard line. A 30-yard screen to Will Bush and 14-yard rush by Barta pushed the Big Blue deep into Tanners’ territory. On the 5-yard line, Barta found Groothuis on a slant route to make it 14-0 with 4:48 remaining in the first.
Peabody, after multiple three-and-outs to open the game, found some rhythm through the air. Maglione connected with Mark Mendonca over the middle for a 24-yard touchdown. The extra point was no good.
Maglione completed eight passes to Mendonca, who finished with 94 yards receiving.
Swampscott extended its lead just before halftime. With 1:07 remaining, Barta escaped a sack and found Groothuis wide open for a 19-yard touchdown, making it 21-6.
The Tanners had a chance to cut into the deficit, but a 36-yard field-goal attempt went wide.
The Big Blue sealed the game in the third quarter when Barta hit Noah Bascon for a 51-yard touchdown. Bascon showed off his speed and elusiveness in the open field, making multiple defenders miss.
Peabody dropped to 0-3 and is still looking for its first multi-touchdown game. Swampscott improved to 2-1, winning its second straight after a season-opening loss to St. Mary’s.
Before kickoff, Peabody honored Freddy Espinal, a member of the Class of 2026 who died last September. Espinal’s family was recognized at midfield and handled the coin toss.
Swampscott visits Melrose next Friday at 7 p.m. Peabody hosts Lynn English the same night, also at 7 p.m.
