SPRINGFIELD — The first week of high school football in Missouri included some big plays. From long breakaway runs to heroics on special teams, southwest Missouri had it all.
Here are the top five Week 1 high school football plays from the Springfield area.
If there is a highlight from the area, send nominees to Liam Keating at lkeating@usatodayco.com or on X @liamkeating7.
Jax Adams, Nixa
The senior running back enjoyed the best performance of his career against Carthage. He scored three touchdowns including a 70-yard lung busting run down the near sideline. Adams' big play highlighted Nixa's 42-13 win.
Sam Boster, Springfield Catholic
On the opening play of the game, senior Sam Boster took the kickoff to the end zone for an 80-yard touchdown. It was one of two touchdowns for Boster on the evening.
The Irish took down Lighthouse Christian Academy 42-21.
Nolan Lashley, Republic
It was a big game for Nolan Lashley against Lebanon. The junior running back erupted for 131 yards and four touchdowns. His big highlight was a 34-yard rushing touchdown through the teeth of Lebanon's defense, which included a hop over a tackler. Republic blanked Lebanon 35-0.
Joe Roche, Logan-Rogersville
The senior scampered for 171 yards and two touchdowns in Logan-Rogersville's 46-14 win against California. Roche's big play was an 82-yard rushing touchdown down the far sideline. He made several players miss and showcased his speed to get away from California's secondary.
James Slaughter, Willard
James Slaughter rushed for 128 yards and one touchdown in the team's 34-21 win against Waynesville. Slaughter broke one tackle and sped past Waynesville's defense for a 55-yard touchdown. It was a key moment for Willard to keep the Tigers in front with all of the momentum.
Liam Keating covers high school sports and Missouri State athletics for The Springfield News-Leader. Send stats or information to him at Lkeating@usatodayco.com
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: See the best Springfield area high school football plays from Week 1
