Central-Baton Rouge Claims First State Title Since 1966 with Dominant Win Over Ruston
New Orleans, LA – The LHSAA Prep Classic culminated in an exciting showdown on Saturday afternoon, where Central-Baton Rouge faced off against defending champions Ruston for the Division I Non-Select title. The atmosphere at the Caesars Superdome was electric as the Wildcats sought to end a title drought that had lasted nearly six decades.
Central-Baton Rouge delivered a stunning performance, defeating Ruston 42-0 to capture their first state championship since 1966. The Wildcats quarterback Jackson Firmin proved unstoppable, throwing for 237 yards and five touchdowns, earning him the Most Outstanding Player honor. The Central defense was equally formidable, holding Ruston to just 90 total yards and forcing four turnovers.
The Wildcats took control early, with Firmin connecting on a 59-yard touchdown pass to Keithon Womack just minutes into the first quarter. The momentum only grew as Ruston struggled, culminating in a fumble return by lineman DK Mays for an 18-yard touchdown, putting Central ahead 14-0.
By halftime, Central had extended their lead to 35-0, with Firmin throwing four touchdowns in the first half alone. The dominance continued into the fourth quarter, with Firmin completing his impressive performance by finding Womack for a 15-yard touchdown.
Ruston, the previous year’s champions, entered the game with high hopes but could not find their rhythm. Their offense was led by Tulane signee Josh Brantley, but they faced relentless pressure from a Central defense that was determined to make history.
With this victory, the Wildcats not only secured a championship but also etched their name back in the record books after decades of near misses. Fans celebrated as Central-Baton Rouge marked a triumphant return to glory in Louisiana high school football.
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