Non-Select Division IV State Championship Preview: Haynesville vs South Plaquemines
by: Vincent Cacioppo // GeauxPreps.com Managing Editor
Thursday, Dec. 12 | 3:30 p.m. | Caesars Superdome | New Orleans, LA
Tickets | Watch – NFHS Network ($)| Watch – LHSAA Network TV App (Free)
Distance To Caesars Superdome: South Plaquemines (59.3 miles), Haynesville (363.8 miles)
No. 1 Haynesville Golden Tornado (13-0)
Head Coach: David Franklin (23rd season)
State Finals History: 17 state titles – 2014 (1A), 2013 (1A), 2009 (1A), 2000 (1A), 1996
(2A), 1995 (2A), 1994 (2A), 1993 (2A), 1991 (2A), 1990 (1A), 1987 (1A),
1984 (1A), 1971 (2A), 1970 (2A), 1936 (1A), 1929 (1A), 1924; 10 State Runner-Up
Finishes – 2023 (DIV), 2016 (1A), 2015 (1A), 2012 (1A), 1989 (1A), 1988 (1A), 1983
(1A), 1972 (2A), 1938 (2A),1932 (1A)
Road To The Dome:
Regional: Beat No. 16 Montgomery, 61-0
Quarterfinals: Beat No. 9 Welsh, 30-15
Semi-Finals: Beat No. 12 General Trass, 52-20
The Skinny:
The Haynesville Golden Tornado enter the Division IV (Non-Select) State Championship as the No. 1 seed, carrying the weight of one of Louisiana’s most storied football legacies. This marks their 20th appearance in the Superdome and 27th appearance in a state title game. Led by Head Coach David Franklin, now in his 23rd season, Haynesville boasts an unparalleled history with 17 state championships and 10 runner-up finishes. Their most recent title came in 2014, and they were runners-up in last year’s championship, fueling their drive to reclaim the crown in 2024.
This season, Haynesville has been dominant on both sides of the ball, averaging 45.4 points per game while allowing just 8.4. The Tornado’s offensive firepower and suffocating defense have led to signature wins over Harmony Grove (AR), rival Homer, and Glenbrook. Key players have been instrumental in their success, including quarterback Isaiah Washington, who commands the offense with poise, and running backs Yasmin Meadors and Donnie Critton, who combine power and speed to keep defenses on their heels.
On the defensive side, Zykerius Fielding has been a standout, making plays as both a safety and wide receiver. The Golden Tornado’s path to the Dome has been impressive. They steamrolled No. 16 Montgomery in the regional round with a 61-0 shutout before dispatching No. 9 Welsh, 30-15, in the quarterfinals. Then, handling business against #12 General Trass in a 52-20 victory.
Haynesville’s depth, experience, and unmatched postseason pedigree make them the team to beat as they seek their 18th state title and look to cement their place atop Louisiana high school football history.
Playoff Averages: 47.67 points per game, allowing only 11.67 points per game
Signature wins: Harmony Grove, AR (Sept. 13); Homer (Sept. 20); Glenbrook (Nov. 8)
No. 2 South Plaquemines Hurricanes (10-3)
Head Coach: Lyle Fitt (8th season)
State Finals History: : 2 State Titles – 2007 (1A), 2008 (1A); 1 State Runner-Up finish – 2009 (1A)
Road To The Dome:
Regional: Beat No. 18 East Feliciana, 21-6
Quarterfinals: Beat No. 7 Mangham, 42-18
Semi-Finals: Beat No. 6 Logansport, 20-14
The Skinny:
The South Plaquemines Hurricanes, the No. 2 seed in the Division IV (Non-Select) State Championship, return to the state’s biggest stage under the steady leadership of Head Coach Lyle Fitt, now in his 8th season. With a proud history that includes two state titles (2007 and 2008) and a runner-up finish in 2009, the Hurricanes are eager to add another trophy to their collection.
South Plaquemines has been a well-rounded force this season, averaging 30.9 points per game while allowing just 16.7. The team has notched signature wins over East Jefferson (38-35), Country Day (28-7), and Walter Cohen (41-6). Quarterback Roderick Parker Jr. leads the offense and often targets standout wide receiver Alex Phillips and utilizes the versatility of do-it-all athlete Jy’Heim Williams. On defense, Deneal McGee anchors the line, while linebacker Khi Ancar provides the physicality and leadership to shut down opposing offenses.
The Hurricanes handled No. 18 East Feliciana in the regional round, grinding out a 21-6 victory, and followed it with a huge 42-18 win over No. 7 Mangham in the quarterfinals. South Plaquemines staged a fourth-quarter drive to defeat #6 Logansport, capped off by a touchdown catch from Alex Phillips. The team’s resilient defense stepped up in the final moments to secure a spot in the dome.
With a roster full of playmakers, South Plaquemines is poised to make its mark and bring another LHSAA State Championship trophy back to Buras.
Playoff Averages: 27.67 points per game, allowing only 12.67 points per game
Signature Wins: L.W. Higgins (Sept. 6), East Jefferson (Sept. 28), Country Day (Oct. 25)