George Mahl

Sports Editor

Well, the question’s that were asked in last week’s column were answered Friday night. We are at the halfway point of the prep football season here in the River Parishes.

After what I saw, Hahnville probably has the best shot of any of the three River Parish team’s to repeat as state champions. They look to have the complete package: offensive, defense and special teams. I think the only team that might give them trouble is Thibodaux, whom they play October 29.

To me, Thibodaux looks to be a darkhorse in 6-5A.

Terrence Isaac, Hahnville running back, has quietly put together a great season. I say quietly because he is largely overshadowed by West St. John running back Patrick Jackson and St. Charles Catholic running back Tyrell Fenroy.

Let’s take a look at where the two other teams that won state championships in 2003 stand. For some reason, I expected Lutcher to lose at least 2 out of their first three games this year. They stand at 2-3 right now.

Interestingly enough is that I keep hearing rumors about Lutcher “softening” their pre-district schedule for 2005.

Time will tell.

You have to wonder how much of an impact the injury to defensive MVP Rolando Melancon has meant to this team. LHS Head Coach Tim Detillier has described his Melancon as “a leader”.

After Donaldsonville, the Bulldogs will face E.D White and Thibodaux. Let’s see if Lutcher has what it takes to repeat as 3A champions.

West St. John has just come off one of the most difficult pre-district schedule’s of any team in 2A. A play here or there and the Rams could be 4-1 and not 3-2. I really think Laury Dupont’s team has been battle tested.

As a sportswriter, it is my job to look ahead. Unlike most coaches, I do not take the “one game at a time” approach. I can see the November 5 West St. John-Riverside game determining the winner of 10-2A.

I think Dupont and Mickey Roussel will have the “we’re not overlooking anybody” approach until that game.

Speaking of tough schedules, Roussel and the Rebels had a difficult pre-district schedule, losing only to Destrehan in week one.

Is anyone aware that St. James has been flying under the radar. Coach Rick Gaille’s team has jumped out to a 3-1 record, tying the amount of wins they had all last season. That might be the sleeper team in the River Parishes. However, they must awaken this week when they play St. Charles Catholic.

I am not yet sure where I will be Friday night.

Good luck to all teams.