Karr Tops Easton 35-13, Returns To Class 4A Title Game

Written by Kyle Valdez

For the eighth time in 4 years, the hyped-up matchup of Warren Easton and Edna Karr took place. Similar to the previous 8 games, Karr reigned supreme as they used a big first half to drown the Eagles in the Class 4A semifinals. The 35-13 victory at Harold Memtsas Stadium sets up No. 2 Karr to face No. 1 Carencro for the state championship.

Karr, the four-time defending state champions, fell down 7-6 in the first quarter, but found a rhythm and took a 28-7 lead into halftime. Quarterback AJ Samuel threw for 275 yards and three touchdowns on 17-25 passing. The sophomore also rushed for a 2-yard touchdown run. Destyn Hill finished with four receptions and an early touchdown grab for 109 yards.

Although Easton's offense was contained, Texas signed receiver Casey Cain reeled in nine catches for 149 yards and Alfred Luke caught 5 passes for 99 yards. Sophomore quarterback Kendrick Connelly threw 23-49 for 291 yards.

Easton found the scoreboard with a 57-yard screen pass from Connelly to Alfred Luke for a touchdown. The touchdown reception gave Easton their first (and only) lead of the night at 7-6 with 6:46 left in the first score.

From that point forward, Karr dominated every aspect of the game. The Cougars reeled off 29 consecutive points to punch their ticket to Natchitoches. Touchdown receptions of 34 yards to August Banks and 14 yards to Collin Lampkin, as well as a quarterback keeper, headlined a productive second quarter.

Before the half, Karr's defense came up with clutch fourth-down stops. On one of the plays, from the 2-yard line, officials came together to rule Easton short of breaking the end zone plane for a turnover on downs.

Despite Karr convincingly handling business, the Cougars were without playmaker - and newly LSU committed - Aaron Anderson due to a first-half personal foul where he supposedly threw a punch after an exchange with an Easton player.

The top side of the bracket showcased No. 1 seed Carencro dominating No. 4 Neville 49-7 and No. 8 Plaquemine 81-14. Karr's quest for five straight state championships will be on the line once again on Dec. 29 at Northwestern State.

For the full highlights from the game, click the link below!!