By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

LAPLACE — Competition in District 9-2A isn’t suggested for the weak of heart.

Four of the top six teams in Class 2A Power Rankings call 9-2A home: St. Charles (1), John Curtis (3), Riverside (4) and Newman (6).

It all adds up to what should be an exciting round robin district bragging rights. And it continues this week, as Newman visits LaPlace and Thomas Dupuy Stadium to tangle with St. Charles.

The Comets enter undefeated, coming off of a lopsided 59-6 win at Lusher on Friday. Newman, meanwhile, took its first loss of the season after a 3-0 start. The Greenies fell at the hands of Curtis, 35-14.

The Greenies hold victories over Bogalusa (27-20), Grace King (42-12) and Northlake Christian (10-0) this season.

The Newman offense is led by quarterback Ryan Brenner and wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr., one of the state’s top recruits.

St. Charles coach Frank Monica expects a fight.

“They’re a complete team,” said Monica. “They boast a very, very nice offense with an intelligent scheme and intelligent players. (Brenner) is very accurate. He’s a dart thrower. Beckham is an excellent athlete, a guy that’s tough to tackle in space. They’ve got a good kicking game and they’re solid defensively. They excel in all phases.”

While the Comets body of work this season is impressive, Monica said he still expects more from his team, and is waiting for it’s best performance.

“We’re not a complete team yet,” said Monica. “This game is quite a barometer for us.”

Against Lusher on Friday, the Comets took control on the back of its defense and special teams. Aaron Hampton blocked a punt three minutes into the game and it was recovered by LaJaylin Smith for a touchdown. SCC forced and recovered a pair of fumbles in the first quarter as well.

Marcus Hall scored three touchdowns and rushed for 93 yards. Jeffrey Hall scored twice, once on a kickoff return and once on a 24-yard reception from Donnie Savoie.

Lazedrick Thompson, Brandon Zimmer and Savoie all ran for scores in the game.

“We were able to build an early lead out of the gate, so that was fortunate”, said Monica. “At the same time, we have to avoid succumbing to a sort of football schizophrenia. We know we can’t always depend on fortune”.

Last season, the Comets defeated Newman 42-13. Marcus Hall had a big night, rushing for 134 yards and three touchdowns.

Beckham led Newman in 2009, scoring twice and accounting for 152 yards of offense.