OHS, ASH Game Features Top RB’S
BOBBY ARDOIN
Editor/Consulting Writer
Consider the Alexandria Senior High football game matchup against Opelousas High at Donald Gardner Stadium Friday night as a preview for two running backs that apparently have Power 5 collegiate credentials.
ASH running back J.T Lindsey has already committed to LSU.
Earlier this year Opelousas High running back De’Shaun Ford also had an opportunity to commit to LSU, according to head football coach Jimmy Zachery, Jr.
However at this point Ford has decided to delay any commitments and make his declaration at a later date, Zachery said on Wednesday.
Meanwhile it could be quite an exhibition between the two highly-recruited runners.
“You’re going to see two of the state’s best backs on the field, so it should be quite a show,” Zachery said.
Ford, who has started since his freshman season, has gained well over 2,000 yards in his high school career. In two games this season Ford has about 400 rushing yards, said Zachery.
Lindsey has started for the Trojans the last three seasons.
While Ford weighs about 220 pounds, Lindsey was listed at the start of the season at 185 pounds.
“(Lindsey) has that quick burst of speed, good balance and if he gets in the open, he’s usually taking it the distance. (Ford) is a guy who’s going to hurt you and for him, it’s going to be all downhill,” said Zachery.
Before the start of the 2024 season, Lindsey had already gained 1,749 yards and scored 26 touchdowns at ASH.
In the Trojans’ comeback win over Destrehan last Friday night, Lindsey ran for 247 with a pair of touchdowns.
Zachery said Ford has received offers from practically every Southeastern Conference program as well as those from outside the SEC.
About That Schedule
The contest also features a pair of teams that are significantly ranked among the elite statewide.
ASH (3-0) jumped several placements and the Trojans, coached by Tommy Bachman, are ranked No. 6 in the Class 5A Week 4 Louisiana Sports Writers Association poll.
Opelousas (1-1) is the No. 3 program in Class 4A.
The Tigers have already played Class 4A and ranked Teurlings Catholic. A scheduled game with Edna Karr, ranked above ASH in Class 5A, was postponed when Hurricane Francine threatened the New Orleans area.
“I want to schedule all good teams. I do that so I can test my guys. Some teams in this parish schedule the cupcakes. I don’t do that. I want the best on my schedule, so when it comes time for the playoffs, we’re ready,” said Zachery.
Opelousas High, said Zachery, is benefitting from the difficult schedule in order to get improve his players who are new to their positions.
“We have a couple of spots on the o-line and on defense where we are looking for our guys to grow up a little bit. We didn’t get that experience when we had to cancel the game with Karr. That was an opportunity that you can’t replace,” Zachery added.
