Ascension Catholic’s Elzy, Jefferson Rise’s Kennedy Named Football Players of the Week
by Hunter Bower // GeauxPreps.com Owner
The head coach of each team sends submissions. Coaches may nominate players each Monday by 10 PM by sending stats, pictures and more to hbower@geauxpreps.com.
This week’s GeauxPreps Football Players of the Week honors are presented by Chevyland.com and awarded to deserving student-athletes who served as game changers for their respective schools.
Offense: Chad Elzy, Jr. – Ascension Catholic – Tailback – Junior
In one of the most remarkable performances in high school football this season, Chad Elzy, Jr. of Ascension Catholic left an indelible mark on the field. The junior tailback put on a show for the ages, etching his name into the school’s record book with an astonishing display of talent. Elzy carried the ball just 10 times but made every touch count, racking up a jaw-dropping 348 rushing yards. He found the end zone an incredible five times, cementing his status as a true offensive powerhouse.
Notably, Elzy’s 348 yards set a new school record for most rushing yards in a single game, surpassing the previous mark of 341 yards held by legendary tailback Germaine Williams, who would go on to star at LSU. Elzy’s incredible performance was about more than just yardage; it was about efficiency. He averaged nearly 35 yards per carry, showcasing his explosiveness and breakaway speed.
But Elzy’s contributions didn’t end there. He also displayed versatility by catching a pass for 22 yards, adding another dimension to his game. Moreover, he demonstrated his determination and commitment by converting on a pair of two-point conversions. In every facet of the game, Chad Elzy, Jr. shone brightly, earning him the title of GeauxPreps Offensive Player of the Week.
Defense: Eldridge Kennedy – Jefferson Rise Charter – Defensive Back – Senior
Eldridge Kennedy, a senior defensive back for Jefferson Rise Charter, showcased his exceptional skills in a pivotal contest against Ben Franklin. Kennedy was a force to be reckoned with, as he single-handedly disrupted the opposing offense with a trio of game-changing interceptions.
His three interceptions totaled an impressive 144 return yards, with one of those interceptions resulting in a memorable touchdown return. But Kennedy’s impact extended beyond the stat sheet. One of his interceptions halted a Ben Franklin drive that was headed for a sure touchdown, showcasing his ability to read the game and make crucial plays when they mattered most.
Kennedy’s all-around performance didn’t stop with interceptions. He also recorded two pass deflections and three tackles, proving his versatility and value to the defense. On the season, Kennedy has been nothing short of spectacular, amassing a remarkable 10 interceptions, two of which have resulted in touchdowns.
Eldridge Kennedy’s game-changing contributions on the defensive side of the ball have made him an invaluable asset to Jefferson Rise. His outstanding performance in the victory over Ben Franklin has earned him the well-deserved title of GeauxPreps Defensive Player of the Week.
2023 GeauxPreps.com Football Players of the Week presented by Chevyland.com
October 10 – Offensive: Chad Elzy, Jr., Ascension Catholic; Defense: Eldridge Kennedy, Jefferson Rise
October 3 – Offensive: St. Edmund offensive line; Defense: Reshad Sterling, Lutcher
September 26 – Offense: Chantz Babineaux, Carencro; Defense: Luke Jones, West Ouachita
September 19 – Offense: Gregory Williams, Homer; Defense: Noah Lovelady, Ouachita Christian
September 12 – Offense: Ben Taylor, Airline; Defense: Corey Amos, Opelousas
September 5 – Offense: Ju’Juan Johnson, Lafayette Christian; Defense: Jacobie Wilson, Ouachita Parish