The opening week of Louisiana high school football showcased standout performances, particularly from Byrd senior running back Christian Maxie. In a closely contested game against defending LHSAA Non-Select Division I champions Ouachita Parish, Maxie set a pair of school records and a city record, even as his team fell short with a final score of 44-37 in Monroe.
Maxie's performance was nothing short of extraordinary. He rushed the ball 40 times, amassing 429 yards, which not only broke Byrd's previous school record but also established a new Shreveport city record for rushing yards in a single game. His impressive outing included three touchdowns and an average of 10.7 yards per carry, underscoring his explosive speed and agility on the field.
Despite Maxie's heroics, Byrd (0-1) struggled to maintain their lead throughout the game. The Yellow Jackets had a strong start, with Maxie and quarterback Leo Ezernack leading the charge in the first half. However, the Lions of Ouachita Parish (1-0) rallied in the second half, building a 15-point cushion in the fourth quarter. Byrd managed to score late in the game, but their attempt at an onside kick was unsuccessful, allowing Ouachita Parish to secure the victory.
In other notable matchups during the opening week, Calvary Baptist Academy demonstrated their prowess with a commanding 48-22 victory over Huntington. The Cavaliers (1-0) kicked off their season in style during the Stars and Stripes Border Classic, which is sponsored by the City of Shreveport. This event is set to conclude with two more games on Friday, featuring Parkway against Dunham and Evangel facing West Monroe at Independence Stadium.
Calvary's quarterback Hudson Price played a pivotal role in their win, connecting with Braylun Huglon for two touchdowns and finding Levin Demoss for another score. The Cavaliers established a significant lead early in the game and maintained control throughout, showcasing their offensive strength.
In a dominant display, Green Oaks also made a statement by blanking Southwood 44-0, signaling their intent to be serious contenders this season. The Giants (1-0) scored consistently against the Cowboys (0-1), demonstrating their readiness for the challenges ahead.
Meanwhile, St. Mary’s secured a solid 22-6 victory over Vidalia in their opener under new head coach Jacob Carruth. Lincoln Prep also had a successful start, defeating Delhi 52-12, with Jabari Levingston contributing significantly with 258 total yards and five touchdowns. Aiden Ferguson led the defensive effort with 11 tackles, showcasing the Panthers' balanced capabilities.
As the Louisiana high school football season unfolds, the performances from these teams and players will be closely watched. Maxie's record-setting game, in particular, highlights the talent present in the league, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
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