By Grant Smith and Ethan MaCloud
As the playoffs begin, the high school football season is drawing to a close. However, with all the talent on display, these next few weeks should supply some exciting football. These five in particular are the guys you don't want to miss out on watching this postseason.
Jacobian Guillory, Alexandria High School
A recent LSU commit, Guillory is an absolute game wrecker up the middle for Alexandria. This 330 pound defensive tackle will be essential to the Trojans playoff push. Coming in at the #3 seed, after a strong 9-1 season, Alexandria and Guillory could likely hoist the state championship trophy this December.
Jack Bech, St. Thomas More (Lafayette)
After his huge first half of the year, Jack Bech finished the season strong helping his STM cougars secure the #1 seed in Division II. On top of this, Bech shattered many STM records throughout his incredible junior season. STM, Bech, and senior QB Caleb Holstein just might get their revenge against #3 University Lab this year in the state championship after last year's heartbreaking loss.
Chris Hilton, Zachary
Another electrifying junior wide receiver, Zachary's Chris Hilton is quite possibly the best high school athlete in the state of Louisiana. The football/basketball/track star has been QB Keilon Brown's favorite target all year. While Keilon Brown will be playing for the Memphis Tigers next season, Hilton's recruitment will be in full swing as he remains one of the most coveted players in the nation. However, the dynamic duo hope to repeat as 5A champions before moving on to D1. After a slow start to the season, Zachary finished strong coming in as the #5 seed. They will could potentially face tough tests on their road back to the dome including East Ascension, Hahnville, and #1 Acadiana.
CJ Thibodeaux, Notre Dame (Crowley)
The Notre Dame Pioneers have been one of the most consistent teams across Louisiana High School football for years. Leading his team to an 8-1 regular season was senior RB CJ Thibodeaux. The Air Force commit has put on a show all season long including a 35 carry, 304 yard, 4 touchdown effort against Teurlings Catholic. Despite losing their 50 game regular season winning streak to Lafayette Christian, the #2 seeded Pioneers are in great shaped headed into the playoffs with their sights set on a potential championship rematch against #1 Lafayette Christian.
Shamar Smith, St. James
Smith is the heart and soul of the St. James Wildcats. The QB of 3A's #1 ranked team has accounted for over 30 touchdowns on the season with many more to come. Despite only being a three star recruit due to his size, Smith has exceptional speed and quickness. University of Texas at San Antonio is getting an absolute steal with this exceptional playmaker. Undefeated St. James could very likely be crowned state champion at the end of the year if they can hold off surging Sterlington and Madison Prep.