In a standout performance during the Stars and Stripes Border Classic held at Independence Stadium, Dunham quarterback Elijah Haven demonstrated why he is regarded as Louisiana's top football recruit for 2027. On September 4, Haven led his team to a resounding 56-15 victory over Parkway, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities by accounting for seven touchdowns through both rushing and passing.
The 6-foot-5, 238-pound quarterback, who has committed to play for Alabama, played a pivotal role in Dunham's success last season, guiding the team to an LHSAA state championship. His current performance not only reinforces his status as a five-star recruit but also helps maintain Dunham's position as the No. 1 ranked team in Class 2A.
“I was just trying to extend plays for my team. That was the biggest thing,” Haven remarked after the game. His ability to evade defenders and make plays outside the pocket was evident, as he consistently found ways to keep drives alive and score. His performance was a testament to his hard work and preparation as he continues to develop his skills on the field.
Parkway's head coach, Coy Brotherton, acknowledged the challenge posed by Haven, stating, “He’s a big guy. Anytime they needed something short yardage, it was a guarantee that they’d get the first down with him running the ball.” Despite the loss, Brotherton emphasized the need for his team to address their shortcomings quickly, as they look to improve in the coming weeks.
In addition to the Dunham vs. Parkway matchup, several other high school football games took place during Week 1, showcasing the competitive spirit of Louisiana high school football. Airline secured a thrilling 48-42 win over Wossman, with quarterback Chase Williams contributing significantly by rushing for three touchdowns and connecting with teammates for two more scores.
Loyola also had a strong showing, defeating Captain Shreve 55-34. Senior quarterback Bryce Restovich was instrumental in the victory, completing 21 of 34 passes for 327 yards and three touchdowns while adding two rushing touchdowns. His performance highlighted the Flyers' offensive prowess, with standout receiver Charlie McKenzie catching seven passes for 157 yards and a touchdown.
In another exciting game, Benton edged out Northwood 34-26, thanks to quarterback Malachi Zeigler's impressive performance, which included three touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns. Meanwhile, Minden secured a close 20-14 victory over North Webster, with Jaiden Johnson throwing two touchdown passes and scoring another on the ground.
Other notable results from the week included North DeSoto's dominant 52-7 win against Union Parish, where freshman quarterback Mason Smith made a strong debut, and Haughton's 42-30 victory over Homer, featuring standout performances from Brandon Craig and Nolan Simmons. The week concluded with several teams demonstrating their potential as they aim for success in the ongoing high school football season.
As the season progresses, teams will look to build on their early successes and address any weaknesses exposed in their opening games. The competitive landscape of Louisiana high school football promises an exciting season ahead, with talented players like Elijah Haven leading the charge for their respective teams.
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