In a high-energy matchup on Friday night, the Jennings Bulldogs (4-1) proved too much for the DeRidder Dragons (2-4), securing a 42-21 victory fueled by the explosive performance of running back Rejohn Zeno. The Bulldogs took control of the game in the second half, using a powerful rushing attack and timely defense to pull away from the Dragons.
First Half: Back-and-Forth Battle
The first half was a tale of two quarters, with both teams battling for control. Neither team was able to put points on the board in the opening quarter as they felt each other out, trading defensive stands.
In the second quarter, however, both offenses came alive. Jennings struck first with two quick touchdowns to take a 14-0 lead, thanks in large part to Zeno’s powerful runs and quick footwork. DeRidder responded just before halftime, led by senior quarterback Tanner Davis and junior running back Connor Rushford, who orchestrated a strong drive to tie the game at 14-14. Davis and Rushford connected well, with Davis finding his rhythm in the passing game and Rushford powering through Jennings’ defense on the ground.
Despite a close first half, the game was about to break wide open in favor of the Bulldogs.
Second Half: Zeno and Bulldogs Dominate
Jennings came out of halftime with renewed energy and quickly took over the game in the third quarter. Zeno was nearly unstoppable, using his speed, quick lateral movement, and strength to wear down the DeRidder defense. One of the game’s most memorable plays came when Zeno carried a DeRidder defender for over 20 yards before being dragged down at the 2-yard line, setting up another Jennings score. Zeno’s combination of agility and power was on full display, and he was the heart of the Bulldogs’ second-half surge.
Jennings poured on 21 points in the third quarter, extending their lead to 35-21. Zeno’s dominance on the ground was complemented by a balanced attack from the Bulldogs, as they consistently moved the ball and kept the Dragons’ defense on their heels.
DeRidder’s standout linebacker, Dylon Rhodes, did everything he could to keep the Dragons in the game. Rhodes, a Gridiron Football All-American, recorded three tackles for loss before halftime, showcasing the skills that earned him his All-American status. However, despite his individual brilliance, the Dragons’ defense struggled to contain Jennings’ offense in the second half.
Dragons’ Efforts Fall Short
While DeRidder managed to score 14 points in the second quarter and added another touchdown in the third, they were unable to keep up with Jennings’ relentless offense. Senior quarterback Tanner Davis played a solid game, connecting on key passes, and junior running back Connor Rushford fought hard on the ground, but the Dragons could not find enough offensive consistency in the second half.
Jennings added another touchdown in the fourth quarter, sealing the game with a 42-21 final score. Despite the loss, the Dragons showed glimpses of potential, with Davis and Rushford continuing to lead the offense and Rhodes anchoring the defense. Their efforts, however, weren’t enough to slow down Jennings’ powerful rushing attack, led by the unstoppable Rejohn Zeno.
What’s Next:
Both Rejohn Zeno and Dylon Rhodes, Gridiron Football All-Americans, will have another chance to shine this season when they play in the prestigious Gridiron Football All-American Bowl on December 30th at Memorial Stadium in Baton Rouge, La. Their standout performances in this game only further cement their status as some of the top talents in high school football.
The DeRidder Dragons (2-4) will look to rebound next week as they take on Eunice High (0-5) in Eunice, La. With a 7 p.m. kickoff, the Dragons will aim to get back on track against a struggling Eunice team. Senior QB Tanner Davis and RB Connor Rushford will need to lead the offense, while Dylon Rhodes will look to continue his dominance on defense.
The Jennings Bulldogs (4-1) will return home next week for a matchup against Lake Charles College Prep (1-3), with a 7 p.m. kickoff. After their commanding win over DeRidder, the Bulldogs will aim to build on their momentum as Zeno continues to prove he’s one of the top running backs in the state.
Conclusion:
In a game that featured two of the best high school football players in the state, Rejohn Zeno stole the show with his incredible performance on the ground. While DeRidder’s Dylon Rhodes delivered an impressive defensive effort, the night belonged to Jennings as they pulled away for a dominant 42-21 victory. Both teams will now turn their focus to next week, where they’ll look to continue their seasons on a high note.
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