When starting quarterback Leon Moody went down with a season-ending knee injury in Week 1, the talented junior performer was moved from wide receiver to quarterback.
In his first start at quarterback, Neal accounted for five offensive
touchdowns to lead the Spartans to a 44-24 victory over Hazelwood East last Friday night.
Neal rushed for 206 yards on 19 carries and three touchdowns on runs of 18, 7 and 71 yards. He also threw two touchdown passes. For good measure, Neal added a sixth touchdown with a 75-yard interception return.
The 6’1″ 190-pound Neal established himself as one of the area’s most exciting performers as a sophomore when he helped the Spartans to a 12-1 record and a berth in the Class 6 semifinals.
As a sophomore, Neal scored 15 touchdowns, which included eight rushing, four receiving and three by return. He also had five interceptions on defense to lead the team.
DeSmet will host Metro Catholic Conference rival CBC on Friday night at 7 p.m.
