By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

EDGARD — To attend a West St. John game over the last three seasons almost guaranteed one would see at handful of impactful plays from Jarius Moll — no matter where he lined up, on either side of the ball.

The senior’s playmaking ability will be on display at Jackson State University next season, as Moll recently signed his letter of intent and officially made the school his next destination.

“After going on my visit, I just liked everything about it,” said Moll. “I was excited after speaking with the coaches … just a lot about it impressed me.”

In Class 1A, where players are routinely asked to play on both sides of the ball, Moll has been one of West St. John’s top offensive and defensive players, playing wide receiver and defensive back.

He was also a dangerous kick-returner, and has played quarterback in spots over his career.

Moll totaled 800 yards receiving in his final season and scored 21 touchdowns. He was an All-State selection in Class 1A by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association.

“When this kid walked in, I told him that he wouldn’t be handed anything. He’d have to earn it,” said West St. John football coach Robert Valdez. “And he proved himself to be a very, very hardworking young man. I was extremely frustrated that a lot of schools in state didn’t give him an opportunity … I think he’s a lot better than many of the guys on those rosters.

“But I’m happy to see him land at Jackson State. I’m happy for Jarius, and I’m happy for them because they’re getting a heck of a football player.”

Moll was recruited primarily to play wide receiver for the Tigers, but he said that he’s also been told that he’ll be in the mix among kick-returners and, if needed on defense, playing safety could be in the cards.

No matter where he lines up, Moll said he’s ready to get started.

“Just the experience of college … it’s something I’m really looking forward to getting started,” Moll said.

He said that Jackson State head coach Rick Comegy and his coaching staff were among the big draws for him.

“That got me interested,” said Moll. “Talking to them, their attitude … they really know what they’re talking about. They had some different ideas and I’m looking forward to working with them.”

Valdez said that Moll simply made plays every Friday night since arriving at West St. John as a sophomore, after transferring from East St. John.

One such example was the opening game of the 2011 season. On a rainy, sloppy night, West St. John trailed host and rival St. James, 12-6, with less than three minutes remaining. The Wildcats were close to the Rams’ goal and looking for a game-sealing touchdown.

But Moll ripped the ball from St. James quarterback Shaquille Narcisse at the 1-yard line and returned it over half the length of the field; it set up his own game-tying score on a reverse. West St. John won in overtime on a Kylum Favorite touchdown run.

“That right there shows the characteristics he has,” said Valdez.

“He always makes something happen. In a tight game, he wants the ball in his hands.”

Valdez noted that with the weather as hampering as it was to the passing game, the reverse call was a different way to get the ball into his playmaker’s hands.

“Who’d have called that in a monsoon?” Valdez joked. “But I’d rather be the not-so-bright coach with great players that make him look good, than the alternative. And we wanted it in his hands.”

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