Rivalry game to decide District 7-3A title

• By ROBIN FAMBROUGH
• Advocate sportswriter
• Published: Nov 5, 2009 - Page: 1C

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Redemptorist and Parkview Baptist high schools have enjoyed unprecedented football success in the past 10 years. The two Class 3A rivals have combined to win five state titles since 2001.

But tonight isn’t about a row of championship trophies. It’s about winning the District 7-3A title and how third-ranked Parkview matches up against No. 2 Redemptorist.

“Every year is different, but I know it will be intense,” Parkview Baptist coach Kenny Guillot said. “It always is intense. It could turn into one of those ‘instant classics’ they talk about.”

Game time is set for 7 p.m. at RHS’ Majella Field. It is one of two district contests in the Baton Rouge area. Christian Life Academy (1-8, 0-4) travels to Donaldsonville to play Ascension Catholic (3-6, 1-3).

Parkview (7-1, 3-0) at Redemptorist (8-0, 3-0) will attract the majority of attention locally and around the state. And with good reason.

In addition to their current poll rankings, the Wolves (third) and Eagles (fourth) are near the top of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association’s unofficial power ratings through Week 9, trailing Notre Dame and E.D. White Catholic.

Last year, Redemptorist was a 3A semifinalist; Parkview won the 3A crown in 2007.

It’s the details of this particular matchup that could make it the most interesting.

“Last year we had an experienced defense and a young offense,” RHS coach Guy Mistretta said. “This year the roles are reversed.

“I think Parkview is solid on defense and on offense they’re probably more diverse than we’ve ever seen them. That gives you more to prepare for.

“This is a game that I don’t predict a score or a winner. I honestly don’t know until the teams get out there. It looks like an even match to me.”

Individual statistics for the teams are not gaudy partially because the starters did not play a full game most of the season.

PBS is led by its quarterback Brady Wilson, who has rushed for 443 yards on 57 carries with six TDs.  Wilson has completed 45 of 82 passes for 704 yards and 11 TDs. Michigan commitment Drew Dileo is among the rushing leaders and has a team-high 318 receiving yards on 19 catches with six TDs.