GeauxPreps Impact Players from Week 2: Standout Performances Across Louisiana
by: Vincent Cacioppo // GeauxPreps.com Managing Editor
In Week 2, standout players across Louisiana high school football continued to make their mark with impressive performances. From record-breaking wide-receivers to defensive playmakers, these student-athletes kept shining under the Friday Night Lights. Here’s a look at our top impact players from Week 2.
Javon Vital – Hamilton Christian
Hamilton Christian’s Javon Vital has been named the GeauxPreps Offensive Player of the Week after a standout performance, racking up 375 total yards and six touchdowns—all in just one half! Vital showcased his versatility with 115 yards and two touchdowns on five carries, 155 yards through the air with two more scores, and two punt returns for 105 yards and another two touchdowns. Vital’s efforts led Hamilton Christian to a victory over Highland Baptist, 60-7.
Peyton Houston – Evangel
Evangel quarterback Peyton Houston delivered a spectacular performance in their 45-7 victory over Natchitoches Central, throwing for 414 yards and six touchdowns while also rushing for 48 yards. His dual-threat ability dominated the game, leading the Eagles to a decisive win and showcasing his all-around offensive game.
Claude Johnson – Holy Cross
Claude Johnson had an outstanding game for Holy Cross, recording three explosive plays over 25 yards each and scoring four touchdowns. His first touchdown came on a 72-yard run, followed by a 37-yard dash where he stepped out at the two-yard line just before halftime. He punched it in on the next play for his second score. Johnson added a third touchdown with a 9-yard run on 1st and goal in the third quarter, all while playing quarterback. In the fourth quarter, as a running back, he capped off his performance with a 23-yard TD run to help seal the win for Holy Cross.
Thomas LeCompte – Vandebilt Catholic
Vandebilt Catholic’s defensive lineman Thomas Lecompte was a force in their 28-13 victory over John Ehret. Lecompte recorded 4 solo tackles, 3 assisted tackles, one sack for a loss of six yards, and a crucial forced fumble. His dominant presence on defense played a key role in securing the win for Vandebilt.
Bryce Restovich – Loyola
In Loyola’s impressive win over the 8th-ranked Logansport Tigers, Bryce Restovich had a standout performance, completing 21 of 30 passes for 282 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a rushing touchdown, showcasing his versatility and leading his team to victory.
Nate Sheppard – Mandeville
Mandeville’s Nate Sheppard had a remarkable performance, scoring six touchdowns in their thrilling 52-43 victory over Madison Prep. His dominant play powered Mandeville’s offense and helped secure the hard-fought win.
Kolby Thomas – Calvary
Louisiana Tech Commit and Calvary receiver Kolby Thomas had an outstanding game despite their loss to Neville, racking up 242 receiving yards and hauling in four touchdown receptions. His explosive performance kept Calvary in the contest, showcasing his ability as a top playmaker in the state.
Xavier Ford – Leesville
Xavier Ford was one of our impact players in week one, he’s back for week 2. In week 1, Ford rushed for over 300 yards and 6 touchdowns. In week 2 against Tioga, Xavier ran for over 400 yards and 6 more touchdowns. In just two games, Ford already has 700 yards and twelve touchdowns.
Ian Gray – C.E. Byrd
Ian Gray set the tone early for Byrd’s Purple Swarm Defense, pressuring Haughton quarterback Taylor Weathersby from the first snap. Under heavy pressure, Weathersby threw an interception on the Bucs’ opening possession, leading to Byrd’s first touchdown. A sack and turnover on downs on the next drive set up Byrd’s second score. Gray then returned a Weathersby fumble, caused by a strip-sack, 10 yards for another touchdown. He later forced another fumble before halftime, with Byrd choosing to run out the clock. Gray finished as the Jackets’ leading tackler in the game.
Tashod Badon – Pearl River
Tashod Badon of Pearl River had an explosive performance in their 64-22 victory over South Lafourche, rushing for 226 yards and scoring six touchdowns. His dominant play was key to securing the win for Pearl River.