Poplarville Dominates Northeast Lauderdale 56-0 in First-Round Playoff Shutout

The postseason is officially underway in South Mississippi, and the Poplarville Hornets made a statement in their playoff opener.

The undefeated Class 4A Region 7 champions welcomed Northeast Lauderdale to the Hornets Nest Friday night for the first round of the MHSAA playoffs, cruising to a dominant 56-0 victory.

Poplarville wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. Just 30 seconds into the game, Trac Smith handed the ball to Remy Naquin, who broke through multiple tackles for the opening touchdown.

The Hornets’ defense quickly forced a turnover on downs, setting up Miami commit Ty Keys for his first touchdown of the night. Poplarville continued to pile on as Naquin found the end zone again, followed by another rushing touchdown from Keys to give the Hornets a commanding 28-0 lead in the first quarter.

The defensive highlights kept coming for Poplarville. Jaxon Schultz got a hand on a pass before Walt Graham came down with the interception, giving the Hornets possession once again.

Keys made the most of the opportunity, breaking multiple tackles on his way to the end zone for his third touchdown of the night.

Kayden Bradford also showed off his speed with a big run down the sideline, setting up Remy Naquin for yet another score. The junior running back powered his way into the end zone for his third touchdown of the night.

Poplarville’s dominant performance carried through the final whistle as the Hornets shut out Northeast Lauderdale 56-0 to advance to the second round.

The Hornets will face the winner of Morton and Forrest County next Friday as they continue their postseason run.