GeauxPreps Impact Players From Round 2: Standout Performances Across Louisiana
by: Vincent Cacioppo // GeauxPreps.com Managing Editor
In Round 2 of the Louisiana high school football playoffs, the stakes were higher, and the performances were even more impressive. We had unstoppable running backs, game-changing defensive stars, and of course, quarterbacks who made big plays. Here’s a look at the top impact players from a fantastic second round.
Jaden Williams – Chalmette
In Chalmette’s 35-31 upset victory over #8 Hahnville, Jaden Williams delivered a standout performance that propelled the Owls to victory. Williams recorded five receptions for 97 yards and a receiving touchdown. On special teams, he racked up 120 kick return yards, including a touchdown. His defining moment came on defense, where he broke up the game-winning pass attempt at the goal line to secure the win for #24 Chalmette.
Javonte Williams – Jeanerette
Jeanerette’s Javonte Williams was unstoppable off the edge in their 46-24 win over #13 Grand Lake. The defensive end registered 18 total tackles, including 12 solo and six assisted. He also notched a sack for an 8-yard loss, three tackles for loss totaling 12 yards, an interception returned for 4 yards, and a fumble recovery with a 2-yard return. Williams’ dominant presence set the tone for Jeanerette’s defense. Jeanerette will host #12 General Trass. The winner moves on to face either #1 Haynesville or #9 Welsh in the Division IV (Non-Select) semifinals.
Cole Cory – North DeSoto
Returning from an early-season injury, Cole Cory made an immediate impact in North DeSoto’s 38-14 win over #10 Belle Chasse. Cory hauled in two receiving touchdowns, a 20-yard, and a 42-yard catch. He had a crucial kick return that placed North DeSoto in prime scoring position. The Griffins move on to face #18 Cecilia where Cory will be needed for a victory over the 2023 state semifinalists.
Malachi Dabney – Destrehan
Destrehan’s Malachi Dabney was unstoppable in their 63-21 regional round win over #7 Northwood-Shreveport. Dabney carried the ball 26 times for 270 yards and found the end zone six times. His performance on the ground led to Destrehan’s explosive offensive showcase. The Wildcats will head to Bossier to take on #2 Airline in the quarterfinal round. They’ll need to feed Dabney and hold on to the ball to keep Airline’s explosive offense off of the field.
Cam Riley – Neville
Cam Riley’s ball-hawking skills were on full display in his team’s 44-13 victory over #16 Covington. The cornerback recorded two key interceptions, stifling Covington’s offense and securing another great defensive performance for the Tigers. Neville will move on to play the aforementioned Jaden Williams and the #24 Chalmette Owls. Cam Riley vs Jaden Williams, should be fun.
Elijah Haven – Dunham
Dunham quarterback Elijah Haven was sensational in the Tiger’s 42-0 shutout win #16 Parkview Baptist. Haven completed 18 of 26 passes for 335 yards and two touchdowns while rushing 14 times for 81 yards and two scores. He totaled 416 yards of offense and accounted for four touchdowns. The #1 seeded Tigers will host #9 Lafayette Christian in what promises to be quite the matchup on Friday night in Baton Rouge.
Tyrese Mosby – Plaquemine
Plaquemine’s Tyrese Mosby powered the Green Devils to a 49-34 victory over #11 Northwest with a stellar offensive performance. The running back rushed 22 times for 169 yards and four touchdowns. He also added two receptions for 19 yards. He’ll need to repeat his performance in the quarterfinal round against the defending state champions in #14 Opelousas.
DJ Garrett – Pine
Pine safety DJ Garrett was a game-changer in his team’s 21-6 victory over Kaplan in the regional round of the playoffs. Garrett showcased his playmaking ability with three interceptions shutting down Kaplan’s passing game. He also contributed five solo tackles, anchoring a defense that allowed just six points. DJ also had a huge game on offense with 7 catches for 193 yards and 3 touchdowns. #9 Pine will travel to #1 St. James for their quarterfinal matchup.
JT Lindsey – Alexandria
In #2 Alexandria’s win over #18 Evangel, JT Lindsey showcased his explosive playmaking ability. On just 17 carries, Lindsey racked up 224 rushing yards and found the endzone four times. The LSU commit has been the model of consistency this year and looks to continue his tear against #10 C.E. Byrd on Friday night.
Luke Landry – Catholic High New Iberia
Catholic High-NI’s Luke Landry delivered a nearly flawless performance in their 59-22 win over #10 Northlake Christian. The quarterback completed 19 of 21 passes for 326 yards and four scores without an interception. Landry also contributed on the ground, rushing four times for 24 yards and two touchdowns, leading his team’s high-powered offensive attack. The Panthers square off with undefeated #2 Newman on Friday night.