As the high school football state playoffs kicked off, Week 1 witnessed a dazzling array of talent, with standout performances that left fans in awe. From electrifying runs to precision passes and game-changing defensive plays, the gridiron was ablaze with excitement. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top stars and their remarkable contributions during this action-packed week.

1. Da’Shawn Chairs, RB, Elkins

• The senior sensation had a stellar game, rushing for an impressive 153 yards and securing five touchdowns, leading the Elks to a commanding 63-27 victory over Clinton.

2. Dizzy Dean, QB, Elkins

• Another key player for Elkins, Dean showcased his quarterback prowess by completing 20 of 25 passes for 206 yards and contributing two crucial touchdowns in the same victory.

3. Pucci Townsend Chairs, RB, Elkins

• Chairs’ performance was nothing short of spectacular as the junior hauled in 11 passes for 90 yards and scored two touchdowns, adding to Elkins’ offensive dominance.

4. Dax Goff, RB, Booneville

• Goff’s all-around performance included 195 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns, and a remarkable 65-yard punt return for a score, leading Booneville to a convincing 56-14 win over Drew Central.

5. Reese Merechka, RB/DB, Charleston

• Merechka’s versatility was on full display as he rushed for 172 yards and six touchdowns, caught six passes for 36 yards, and made significant contributions on the defensive end in the Tigers’ 49-28 victory over Barton.

These outstanding performances were not limited to a specific position, with quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and defensive players all leaving their mark on the field. From Mountain Home to Camden Fairview, each team had its heroes, and the gridiron was transformed into a stage for these young athletes to showcase their skills and determination.

Notable Quarterback Feats:

• Owen Miller of Harding Academy threw for an impressive 305 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 88 yards and another score in a 49-12 win over Gentry.
• Bryce Perkins of Van Buren became his school’s all-time touchdown pass leader by throwing four touchdown passes in a 55-32 victory over West Memphis.
• Achillies Ringo of Little Rock Mills orchestrated a stunning performance, completing 24 of 34 passes for 340 yards with two touchdowns and adding a rushing touchdown in a 35-21 victory over Wynne.

Dominant Defensive Displays:

• Gunner Poe of Cabot was a defensive force, picking off three passes to lead the Panthers to a convincing 42-6 win over Springdale Har-Ber.
• Wyatt Simmons, a senior Arkansas commit from Harding Academy, showcased his defensive prowess with eight tackles, two for a loss, and a sack in a 49-12 victory over Gentry.

Explosive Offensive Showcases:

• Kyler Wolf of Hot Springs Lakeside had a monumental game, catching an incredible 13 passes for 347 yards and running twice for 40 yards in a thrilling 58-42 win over Harrison.
• Grady Ohman of Hot Springs Lakeside ran 11 times for an impressive 202 yards and added a 26-yard touchdown reception in the same victory.

As Week 1 of the high school football state playoffs concluded, these standout performances set the stage for an exhilarating postseason. The gridiron, once again, proved to be a platform for rising stars and unforgettable moments, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this thrilling football saga.