Shreveport, La. – High school football fans gathered at Leonard C. Barnes Stadium on Saturday for the annual Soul Bowl, and Green Oaks emerged victorious, edging out longtime rival Booker T. Washington 20-18.
Game Overview
The contest began evenly, with both the Green Oaks Giants and the Booker T. Washington Lions deadlocked at six points at halftime. The second half saw a series of strategic adjustments, defensive stands, and clutch scoring drives that ultimately tipped the balance in Green Oaks’ favor.
Key Plays and Performances
Green Oaks quarterback Jordan Mitchell orchestrated the offense with poise, completing crucial third‑down passes that set up two touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Wide receiver Tyler Hayes hauled in a 28‑yard reception that set up the go‑ahead score, while running back Marcus Lee powered through for a short-yardage touchdown that sealed the win.
Booker T. Washington fought back valiantly. Lions quarterback Deandre Collins connected with tight end Rashad Owens for a 15‑yard touchdown early in the third quarter, narrowing the gap. However, a missed extra point and a late‑game turnover limited the Lions’ ability to overtake the lead.
Impact on Season Records
With the 20-18 triumph, Green Oaks improves to an unbeaten 3-0 record, positioning the Giants as early favorites in the regional playoff picture. Booker T. Washington, now 2-1, will look to rebound in their next matchup, hoping to regain momentum before the postseason.
Community Reaction
Fans from both schools filled the stands, showcasing the deep-rooted rivalry that defines the Soul Bowl tradition. Local businesses set up food stalls, and alumni gathered to cheer on their former teammates, underscoring the event’s significance to the Shreveport community.
After the game, Green Oaks head coach Coach Darren Whitaker praised his players’ resilience: “Our boys showed heart and discipline when it mattered most. This win reflects the hard work they put in every day, both on the field and in the classroom.”
Booker T. Washington’s coach, Coach Luis Ramirez, remained optimistic: “We fought hard and learned valuable lessons. We’ll use this experience to improve and come back stronger.”
Looking Ahead
Both programs will return to practice next week, focusing on refining their playbooks and preparing for upcoming non‑conference games. The next home game for Green Oaks is scheduled for October 10 against the Eastside Eagles, while the Lions will host the Central City Cougars on October 12.
The Soul Bowl continues to be a highlight of the Shreveport high school football calendar, bringing together families, alumni, and local supporters in a celebration of sport, community, and tradition.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
