GeauxPreps Impact Players From Week 3: Standout Performances Across Louisiana
by: Vincent Cacioppo // GeauxPreps.com Managing Editor
In Week 3, standout players across Louisiana high school football continued to make their mark with impressive performances. From record-breaking running-backs to defensive playmakers, these student-athletes kept shining under the Friday Night Lights. Here’s a look at our top impact players from Week 3.
Dezyrian Ellis – Franklin Parish
Dezyrian Ellis set a new personal best in rushing yards on Friday, racking up 171 yards and two touchdowns on just 13 carries. He also threw for 121 yards and two more touchdowns, earning him the title of Week 3 GeauxPreps Offensive Player of the Week. This marks his third consecutive game with two or more rushing touchdowns, dating back to last season. His standout moment came with a jaw-dropping 99-yard touchdown. Franklin Parish completed a stunning upset, taking down defending state champs Calvary Baptist.
Ayden Tate – Pineville
Pineville running back Ayden Tate made history in the Rebels’ thrilling 39-36 victory over Tioga, setting a new school record with 407 rushing yards. Tate carried the ball 34 times, finding the end zone 4 times in a dominant performance. Congratulations to Ayden and the Rebels’ offensive line for an unforgettable night, as Tate’s record-breaking effort powered Pineville to a hard-fought win.
Ethan Sipes – C.E. Byrd
Sipes was a force for Byrd, leading the defense with 11 total tackles, including four tackles for loss. His crucial sack and forced fumble on Evangel quarterback Peyton Houston at the Byrd 13-yard line stopped a key Eagles scoring drive, helping Byrd hold onto their 14-10 lead at the time. Byrd went on to defeat Evangel 35-23, handing the Eagles their first-ever home loss in District 1-5A play.
Ashontis Brooks, Jr. – East Iberville
East Iberville’s running back, Ashontis Brooks Jr., put on a spectacular performance in the Tigers’ 60-24 win over Northeast. Brooks carried the ball only 9 times but exploded for 230 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns, averaging 25.6 yards per carry. He also contributed on special teams with 135 kickoff return yards and a touchdown, bringing his total to 6 touchdowns on the night, leading East Iberville to a dominant victory.
Ryder DeJean – West Monroe
West Monroe quarterback Ryder DeJean delivered a commanding performance in the Rebels’ 63-14 win over North DeSoto. DeJean completed 8 of 10 passes for 167 yards, throwing 3 touchdowns with no interceptions. On the ground, he added 16 rushing yards on 4 attempts, including a rushing touchdown, averaging 4 yards per carry. DeJean’s efficient play helped propel West Monroe to a decisive victory.
Easton Royal – Brother Martin
Brother Martin wide receiver Easton Royal was the hero in the Crusaders’ thrilling 31-28 victory over St. Paul’s. Royal hauled in 6 receptions for 151 yards and 2 touchdowns, including the game-winning catch with just 6 seconds left on the clock. His clutch performance and ability to come through in key moments were crucial in securing the dramatic win for Brother Martin.
Mark Copenhaver – Parkway
Parkway Panthers linebacker Mark Copenhaver was a defensive powerhouse in the team’s dominant 48-7 win over Haughton. Copenhaver totaled 11 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss, accounting for 37 yards. He also registered 4 sacks, pushing Haughton back 32 yards. His relentless pressure on defense played a key role in Parkway’s overwhelming victory.
Jarrison Reese – Church Point
Church Point athlete Jarrison Reese was unstoppable in their 34-27 victory over Rayne. On the ground, Reese rushed 9 times for 181 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 21 yards per carry. Additionally, he electrified on special teams with an 82-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, showcasing his all-around playmaking ability and leading Church Point to a hard-fought win.
Chad Elzy Jr – Ascension Catholic
Ascension Catholic’s Chad Elzy Jr. delivered an incredible performance in the Bulldogs’ 56-12 win over St. Thomas Aquinas. Elzy rushed for 205 yards on just 5 carries, scoring 4 touchdowns and adding a two-point conversion. His explosive playmaking powered Ascension Catholic’s dominant victory, cementing his status as a key offensive force for the Bulldogs.
Reid Chauvin – Episcopal
Episcopal running back Reid Chauvin put on a stellar performance in the Knights’ 51-3 victory over Country Day. Chauvin rushed 8 times for 154 yards and 3 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 19 yards per carry. His touchdown runs included two explosive 55-yard bursts and a 25-yard score. Chauvin also contributed 25 receiving yards, showcasing his versatility in a dominant all-around effort.