By RYAN ARENA
L’Observateur

EDGARD —  Coach Robert Valdez sees a Plain Dealing squad coming into Edgard this Friday night that’s playing inspired football. Of course, they’re not the only ones.

The Rams overcame great tragedy last week to put forth an emotional, dominating performance in a 51-0 victory at home over visiting Varnado, just hours before Rams assistant coach Juan Joseph was laid to rest Saturday morning in Edgard.

“Do it for Juan” was a prominent refrain last week, and the Rams simply couldn’t have done it any better.

Coach Robert Valdez was in the midst of preparing his team for another quarterfinal matchup — WSJ (9-2) has now reached this round for fourth straight season — but stopped to reflect on how his players have focused in spite of the loss of a mentor and friend.

“It’s a testament to how this group handles adversity,” Valdez said. “They’ve done it all year, if you look at it. Against St. James, after that tough stretch against Riverside and Holy Cross. This has obviously been a greater, emotional challenge. But this is a resilient group, and they’ve proven it over and over. I’m very, very proud of my kids.”

Now, the focus shifts to a sixth-seeded Plain Dealing (9-2) team that lost just twice this season, to top contenders 4A Benton and 1A district rival Haynesville. Plain Dealing defeated Block last week, 16-6.

“They play with a lot of confidence,” Valdez said. “They’ve got some athletes and some nice size. They’ve got some of the biggest linebackers I’ve seen. It’s a tough club.”

Quarterback Logan Allen commands the Lions’ shotgun attack, with Isaac Jacobs as one of his top receiving threats. The duo combined for the clinching touchdown in last week’s victory, and a pair of two-point conversion plays.

“They get into the shotgun and throw it extremely well,” Valdez said. “They can run it with the quarterback.

“He’s got a real quick release. The biggest thing for us is to eliminate the big plays.”