Jackson, Mississippi, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Top high school athletes across Mississippi are vying for the title of Clarion Ledger Athlete of the Week. Voting is currently open and will close Saturday at noon. Fans have the opportunity to support their favorite athletes once per hour per device. Notable performances this week include impressive rushing and passing yards achieved by multiple nominees, showcasing the talent and dedication present in Mississippi’s young athletes.
Jackson, Mississippi – The competition for the title of Clarion Ledger Athlete of the Week is heating up as top high school athletes from across Mississippi showcase their talents. Voting is open now and will remain open until noon this Saturday.
Fans can participate in the voting process once per hour per device, ensuring they have multiple opportunities to support their favorite athlete. To nominate future candidates for the Athlete of the Week, voters are encouraged to reach out via email or social media to the designated contact.
This week, notable performances include:
- Christian Alexander (Rosa Fort): 217 rushing yards on 20 carries and five touchdowns during a decisive 50-18 victory over North Panola.
- Ronde Baker (Terry): Achieved 189 rushing yards on 16 carries and five touchdowns in a 47-0 win against Murrah.
- Tristan Colenberg (South Panola): Though his team lost to DeSoto Central 42-39, he managed 126 passing yards with two touchdowns and 216 rushing yards with three touchdowns.
- Jon Luke Hood (Mantachie): Recorded 201 rushing yards on 15 carries, contributing five touchdowns to a commanding 40-0 win over Holly Springs.
- Kingston Johnson (Starkville): Notably threw for 486 passing yards, completed 23 passes, and scored four touchdowns, along with 92 rushing yards and two touchdowns, in a nail-biting 57-54 victory against Oak Grove.
- Peyton Perkins (Eupora): Rushed for 210 yards on 20 carries and secured three touchdowns in a winning effort (36-20) against Hamilton.
This thrilling competition underscores Mississippi’s dedication to developing successful student-athletes. Enthusiastic fans have several opportunities to engage with this celebration of athletic achievement, and this week’s nominees are examples of the skill and resilience found throughout the state.
In addition to this week’s outstanding athletes, a list of top performers this season has emerged:
- Braylen Bedford (Vardaman) – 1,260 all-purpose yards, 15 touchdowns.
- Zialis Blackmon (Biggersville) – 2,137 all-purpose yards, 29 touchdowns, leading all athletes.
- Quentin Carter (Charleston) – 1,486 all-purpose yards, 15 touchdowns.
- Javarious Griffin Jr. (Cleveland Central) – 756 all-purpose yards with seven receiving touchdowns and five rushing touchdowns.
- Gavin Howard (Holmes County Central) – 1,599 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns.
- Jeremiah Harkins (New Hope) – Notable three-star recruit committed to Middle Tennessee State.
- Ian Harlan (Ocean Springs) – 245 all-purpose yards, three touchdowns.
- Jermaine Jackson (Bruce) – 930 all-purpose yards, seven touchdowns.
- O’Mari Johnson (Jackson Academy) – Committed to North Carolina.
- DJ McNair (George County) – 1,201 all-purpose yards, nine touchdowns.
- Ja’Kayden Moore (Heidelberg) – 1,186 all-purpose yards, 15 touchdowns.
- Liam Schwartz (Centreville Academy) – 1,310 all-purpose yards, 14 touchdowns.
- Khylan Sinegal (Stringer) – 778 all-purpose yards, nine touchdowns.
An emphasis has been placed this week on recognizing valuable returners, with players like Jaiden Taylor (Noxubee County), Justin Verner (Hamilton), and Jordan Virgess (Laurel) demonstrating elite skills in their positions.
The highlight of the week not only honors individual achievements but also reinforces the community’s commitment to their young athletes. Fans and family members are encouraged to engage actively, ensuring support for the future sports stars of Mississippi.
FAQs about Clarion Ledger Athlete of the Week Poll
How can I vote for the Athlete of the Week?
Fans can vote in the poll once per hour per device until the poll closes at noon on Saturday.
How are athletes nominated for Athlete of the Week?
To nominate an athlete for future weeks, fans can email [email protected] or message @MikeSChavez on X (formerly Twitter).
How can I submit sports scores and statistics?
Scores, statistics, and records can be submitted via email to [email protected].
| Athlete | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|
| Christian Alexander | 217 rushing yards, 5 TDs in 50-18 win |
| Ronde Baker | 189 rushing yards, 5 TDs in 47-0 win |
| Tristan Colenberg | 126 passing yards, 3 TDs, and 216 rushing yards in 42-39 loss |
| Jon Luke Hood | 201 rushing yards, 5 TDs in 40-0 win |
| Kingston Johnson | 486 passing yards, 4 TDs, 92 rushing yards, 2 TDs in 57-54 win |
| Peyton Perkins | 210 rushing yards, 4 TDs in 36-20 win |
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Mississippi High School Football Vote
- USA Today HSS: Best Mississippi High Schools for Athletes
- WLOX: Gulfport Sports Legend Lindy Callahan Dies
- Sun Herald: Mississippi High School Football Updates
- Wikipedia: Mississippi
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