2nd Round Playoff Eye Catchers: Hahnville at Parkway

The 2nd round of the LHSAA Playoffs had no shortages of headline matchups, and this contest lined up two storied programs—North vs South for a chance at the Division 1 Nonselect quarterfinals. Parkway leaned on their defense to hold on for the overtime win, 37-31. There were big-time playmakers all over the field. Here are a few athletes that caught our eye:    Al'Jarreau is electric as a return man, having multiple successful returns this season. Walker used his vision and acceleration to slice his way to the end zone on the opening kickoff. Walker is also a well-balanced back that can break one outside or power between the tackles.     Gary seems to improve every week. His explosive first step off the line keeps defenders playing off their heels, and his size makes him a mismatch even when they can keep up with him. He has soft hands and concentrates well to reel in the catch, often making over-the-shoulder snags look easy.     Raymond stood out, terrorizing the backfield all night. Using his explosiveness off the ball, Williams lived behind the line of scrimmage, applying pressure. What stood out the most was his motor; his drive and pursuit helped cause a fumble that he returned 68 yards for a touchdown.     Braxxton had yet another standout performance running the ball, using his patience and power to help his team mount a comeback in the second half. The Panthers leaned on Black's hard-nosed running late in the game, and Braxxton responded and came through with two touchdowns to keep their season alive.     Bennett is a very versatile athlete with a powerful frame for the next level. The Southeastern Louisiana pledge lined up outside and in the box as a receiving target but also blocked very well from both alignments. Naquin also has the ability to play QB, doing whatever it takes to help his team be successful.     Mark continues to write his legacy during his campaign and helped lead the Parkway defense in their overtime stand that helped extend their season. Copenhaver orchestrates the defense and shows a full understanding of coverages, communicating teammates' assignments presnap. His return capabilities make him a dynamic weapon, using his vision to find holes and flipping the field—putting the offense in a favorable field position.     Frederic stands out as soon as he steps on the field thanks to his highly sought after size. The Southeastern Louisiana commit uses it well, as he displays the strength to drive down blocks and the athleticism to stall the rush in pass protection. Downing checks the boxes to play interior lineman or on the outside in space.

The 2nd round of the LHSAA Playoffs had no shortages of headline matchups, and this contest lined up two storied programs—North vs South for a chance at the Division 1 Nonselect quarterfinals. Parkway leaned on their defense to hold on for the overtime win, 37-31. There were big-time playmakers all over the field. Here are a few athletes that caught our eye: