Poplarville runs up 56-point shutout over Northeast Lauderdale
The undefeated region champions built a 28-0 lead before halftime and advanced to the second round of the MHSAA playoffs.
By James Mitchell ·
Poplarville defeated Northeast Lauderdale 56-0 on Friday night to open the MHSAA postseason.
The Hornets, who finished the regular season undefeated, secured their win at home in the Hornets Nest. The final score reflected a one-sided contest that ended without a single point from the visitors.
Trac Smith and Remy Naquin set the tone early. Thirty seconds after the game started, Smith handed off to Naquin, who broke through several defenders for the opening touchdown. The Poplarville defense forced a quick turnover on downs, which allowed Miami commit Ty Keys to score his first rushing touchdown. The team extended its lead to 28-0 in the first quarter, with Naquin and Keys each adding another rushing score.
Defense played a key role in maintaining the momentum. Jaxon Schultz deflected a pass, and Walt Graham intercepted the next attempt. Keys capitalized on that stop for his third touchdown of the night. Later, Kayden Bradford ran down the sideline to set up Naquin for a third score of his own. Naquin finished the game with three total touchdowns, while Keys also recorded three rushing touchdowns.
The result moves Poplarville to the second round of the playoffs. The Hornets are scheduled to play the winner of the match between Morton and Forrest County next Friday.
The game marked the first victory for the Hornets in the 2026 postseason.
