On Sept. 2, senior running back La’Ron Eason rushed for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns in South’s first win on the season against Northwest Cedar Hill. 

The Patriots took over the second half, winning 34-14 in their first home game. Eason was 10 yards shy of a school record for rushing yards in a single game, set by Jeff Styles back in 2001. He broke out for two 40+ yard runs and a 57-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, a turning point for the Patriots.

When asked how it felt to play in front of the home crowd, Eason said, “I had this rush of energy that made me want to keep playing, even after the game ended.”

With this increased workload, Eason said, “I never really got tired, only after a long drive, only I love running.”

Senior Carson Johnson is South’s starting right guard. He said it was encouraging for him to see Eason succeed. 

“It was amazing not only watching his hard work pay off, but mine and the offensive line as well,” Johnson said.

Johnson said he enjoys playing his position on the field, and he hopes for more pancake blocks and big games for Eason this season. 

“I love the o-line (offensive line) because that’s what I’m good at. And I really dislike running,” he said. 

Eason has a great appreciation for his blockers. 

“Keep it up, without you I wouldn’t be the running back that I am,” he said.

Eason is not only a fan favorite, coaches love him too. Coach John Barnabee is the running back position coach. 

“[Eason] brings awesome energy and a smile. He’s the type of athlete that makes you want to keep coaching,” Barnabee said. 

Eason’s goals for this season are 1,000 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns. At press time, he is second in the state for total yards with 828 and has six touchdowns 4 games into the season.

If Eason could say anything to his fans, it would be this: “Come to every game, I look forward to winning more games for you guys.”