Covington scores impressive road win at Sam Houston

Hitting the road as a 23rd seed was a non-issue for Covington Friday night. The Lions felt battle tested and prepared. Their inclination was correct.

Covington dominated early and went on to a 42-28 victory at No. 10 Sam Houston.

It was a complete effort by the Lions (7-4), highlighted by a stellar defensive performance.

Edgerrin Cooper had two interceptions, returning one for a score and returned a fumble recovery for a score and ran for a touchdown offensively. The Lions forced six turnovers, including four interceptions and two fumble recovers. Cedric Laird returned an interception for a score.

Speaking on The 3 Tailgaters Show on 106.1 FM NASH ICON Saturday morning, Lions coach Greg Salter had high praise for Cooper.

“Edgerrin has been fantastic for us over the last three years,” Salter said. “He’s been entrenched in the inside linebacker spot and has done nothing but make plays. He has great height, speed and range and he is tough as nails. He has 30 plus offers from all around the country. He was all over the field for us.”

Quintez Laurent had 30 carries for 156 yards and a touchdown to pace the Covington attack while Chandler Washington had four carries for 88 yards, including a 73-yard touchdown run, though he left in the third series of the game with a knee injury and did not return.

“The most important thing is that we kept Sam Houston’s offense off the field because they can throw it all over the field,” Salter said. “We did it against Mandeville as well with their fine passing game. I believe we had ball for 11:10 in the third quarter. That’s the most important thing. Keeping them off the field was so important. It was a huge turning point in the game.”

Salter knew his team would play well.

“I am not surprised that we won, though others may be,” Salter said. “Our staff does such a good job in preparing our players. We have had some success in the playoffs.”

Covington will host No. 7 Destrehan (8-3) in the second round. The Wildcats downed No. 26 Ponchatoula 48-34 as Alabama commit Kyle Edwards rushed for 233 yards and five touchdowns in a game seen live at CrescentCitySports.com.

“We face them in the spring every year,” Salter said. “We have great respect for their program. They are really talented and well coached.” I am not surprised that we won, though others may be. We are really excited about facing Destrehan. We find out where we stand every spring in facing them. Coach (Steve) Robicheaux is one of the finest coaches and persons in the business.”