Select Division II State Championship Preview: Archbishop Shaw vs E.D. White

December 13, 2024

by: Vincent Cacioppo // GeauxPreps.com Managing Editor

Distance To Caesars Superdome: Archbishop Shaw (8.5 miles), E.D. White (58.5 miles)

No. 1 Archbishop Shaw Eagles (11-2)

Head Coach: Hank Tierney (22nd season)

State Finals History: 1 State Title – 1987 (4A); 6 State Runner-Up finishes – 2008 (4A), 2007 (4A), 2006 (4A), 2000 (5A), 1997 (5A), 1988 (4A)

Road To The Dome:

Regional: Beat No. 16 Loranger, 49-14

Quarterfinals: Beat No. 8 John F. Kennedy, 21-14

Semi-Finals: Beat No. 5 Madison Prep, 35-28

The Skinny:

The Archbishop Shaw Eagles are soaring back to the state finals for the first time since 2008, led by legendary Head Coach Hank Tierney in his 22nd season at the helm. With one state title to their name (1987, Class 4A) and six runner-up finishes, the Eagles are determined to reclaim their place atop Louisiana high school football and add another championship to their storied history.

The Eagles dismantled Loranger 49-14 in the regional round before grinding out a gutsy 21-14 victory over John F. Kennedy in the quarterfinals. The Eagles then secured their first trip to the Dome in nearly two decades with a victory over #5 Madison Prep in the state semifinal.

The Eagles’ balanced attack averages 40.6 points per game, while their stout defense allows just 14.6 points per contest in the regular season. Quarterback Mason Wilson commands the offense with poise, distributing the ball to a dynamic supporting cast that includes running back Jasper Parker, a Michigan signee, and slot-back Gavin Richard.

Defensively, the Eagles boast a strong front led by defensive end Sheldon Green, while linebacker Rontrae Carter adds a physical presence to the middle of the field. Special teams are a weapon for Shaw as well, with kicker Henry Zelaya has been a steady presence for the Eagles all season.

Signature victories throughout the season over the likes of Lafayette Christian, St. James, Belle Chasse, and St. Charles Catholic highlight Shaw’s ability to rise to the occasion against elite competition.

As Archbishop Shaw prepares for their chance to reclaim glory, they carry the legacy of a proud program and the hopes of their loyal fans. With Tierney’s steady guidance and a team firing on all cylinders, the Eagles are poised to make their mark in the history books once again.

Playoff Averages: 35 points per game, allowing only 18.67 points per game

Signature wins: Lafayette Christian (Sept. 27); St. James (Oct. 11); Belle Chasse (Nov. 1); St. Charles (Nov. 7)

No. 3 E.D. White Cardinals (11-2)

Head Coach: Kyle Lasseigne (16th season)

State Finals History: 2 State Titles – 1969 (1A), 1968 (1A); 1 State Runner-up finish – 1981 (2A)

Road To The Dome:

Regional: Beat No. 19 Livingston Collegiate, 51-14

Quarterfinal: Beat No. 6 Vandebilt Catholic, 23-18

Semi-Final: Beat No. 7 Leesville, 41-13

The Skinny:

The E.D. White Cardinals, the No. 3 seed in the Division II (Select) State Championship, are back in the hunt for glory under longtime Head Coach and E.D. White alum, Kyle Lasseigne, now in his 16th season. With a decorated history that includes two state titles (1968 and 1969) and a runner-up finish in 1981, the Cardinals are determined to add a third championship to their legacy.

The 2024 Cardinals have been a powerhouse, averaging 36.3 points per game with a stingy defense that allows just 10.9 points per game. The Cardinals’ season has been highlighted by signature wins over Holy Cross, Hahnville, Assumption, and Vandebilt Catholic. Quarterback Grant Barbera leads the offensive charge, connecting with playmaking wide receiver Ben Guidry and utilizing the dynamic versatility of athlete Landon Babin who plays on both sides of the ball. Defensive back Luke Zeringue anchors a disciplined and aggressive defense, critical to E.D. White’s success.

The Cardinals’ road to the Dome has been impressive. They rolled past No. 19 Livingston Collegiate with a 51-14 victory in the regional round and showcased their grit in a tightly contested 23-18 win over No. 6 Vandebilt Catholic in the quarterfinals. The Cardinals then defeated Leesville in a 41-13 victory, stalemating one of the state’s best rushing attacks.

With a balanced offense, a stout defense, and a tradition of success, E.D. White enters the championship stage prepared to leave everything on the field in pursuit of another title.

Playoff Averages: 38.33 points per game, allowing only 15 points per game

Signature wins: Holy Cross (Sept. 6); Hahnville (Sept. 20); Assumption (Nov. 1); Vandebilt Catholic (Nov. 7)