By LEE HILLER, Journal Sports
Calvary’s James Simon tops the list of returning running backs in Caddo and Bossier Parishes, and is also tops locally in the eyes of national recruiting experts.
Simon, a University of Texas commit, ran for 1,600 yards in 192 attempts (8.3 average per rush) and scored 21 touchdowns in 14 games for the state champion Cavaliers.
One of the other top backs last year expected to return this season, Captain Shreve’s Jamarlon Otis, has relocated and is not back with the Gators or in the area. Otis was the leading rusher locally in 2023 with 1,680 yards (regular season).
North Caddo quarterback Mason Jackson, who was listed among the top returning passing leaders, is a dual threat after running for 1,198 yards to go with his 903 passing yards. Jackson has some help in the backfield with Tray Morris covering 660 yards in 10 games.
Parkway’s Antonio Gladney Jr. ran for more than 1,000 yards during his sophomore regular season and scored 13 touchdowns on the ground.
Byrd back Desmond Simmons is the leading returning ground gainer for the Yellow Jackets with 680 yards and two touchdowns.
List of top 2023 underclass rushers
James Simon, Calvary, 14 games, 192 carries, 1,600 yards, 21 TDs
Mason Jackson, North Caddo, 10 g., 126-1,198
Antonio Gladney, Parkway, 10 g., 167-1,058, 13 TDs
Desmond Simmons, Byrd, 11 g., 149-680, 2 TDs
Tray Morris, North Caddo, 10 g., 101-660
Damari Drake, Evangel, 11 g., 58-624, 8 TDs
Stedtravious Brisker, Green Oaks, 9 g., 56-424 6 TDs
Kyran Johnson, Northwood, 10 g., 86-383, 5 TDs
Joshua Isaac, Evangel, 11 g., 42-373, 2 TDs
Harrison Ayres, Byrd, 11 g., 69-340, 4 TDs
Jamarion Washington, Huntington, 11 g., 19-316, 3 TDs
CJ Dudley, Parkway, 10 g., 54-316, 2 TDs
Davontay Moss, Haughton, 58-311, 3 TDs
Brandon Cooper, Airline, 5 g., 30-309, 2 TDs
Kamron Davis, Huntington, 11 g., 65-296, 3 TDs
Quinton Hilliard, Byrd, 9 g., 29-279, 6 TDs
Tomarcus Keith, Northwood, 6 g., 43-279. 3 TDs
Contact Lee at leeh051@hotmail.com