Loyd Star’s unbeaten march to five straight victories has been acombination of success on offense and defense. Defensively, theHornets have raised their level of intensity andaggressiveness.

One of the leaders in last Friday night’s 26-20 win over theNorth Pike Jaguars was Marquis Hayes. The junior defensive back wascredited with 9 tackles and 2 pass breakups

That performance has earned Hayes The DAILY LEADER’s DefensivePlayer of the Week recognition.

Loyd Star head football coach Ryan Ross said Hayes playedexceptionally well against North Pike. “Marquis had a heckuva game.He played both sides of the ball and was worn out.”

Ross said Hayes overcame muscle cramps in his legs by drinkingpickle juice while he was on the sidelines. On offense, he rushed14 times for 54 yards and 2 touchdowns.

“Marquis has matured a lot concerning the game of football,”Ross pointed out. “He understands where he needs to be. I’m proudof the way he has developed. He worked hard in the summer andlifted weights.”

Ross said Hayes (5-9, 150) applies himself in the classroom,too. “He’s looking to the future. He works hard in the classroom,too. He’s motivated to go to the next level. He’s a great youngman, very coachable.”

The 16-year-old son of James and Tara Beard is tackling Spanishin his academic life. He enjoys reading the Bible in his sparetime.

“I give thanks to my teammates and coaches for this award, and Igive thanks to God, too,” said the soft-spoken Hayes. “Once westarted listening to our coaches, you see what can happen.”

The win over North Pike was a confidence builder for the Hornetswho got 2 early touchdown runs from Tradareous Wilson. Hayes canplay cornerback and free safety on defense. He also likes widereceiver and running back on offense.

“I like the big hits on defense,” said Hayes. “I like blitzingand making tackles in the backfield.”

Blessed with 4.45 speed in the 40-yard dash, Hayes can benchpress 250 pounds. He plays the outfield for the baseball team. Hisyounger brothers: Javion, Tarion and James Beard, participate insports on the junior high level.

Hayes wears jersey No. 5 in honor of Reggie Bush, the NewOrleans Saints’ standout running back who now wears jersey No. 25.”(Bush) wore that number (5) at USC, when he was in college” Hayesnoted.

On Loyd Star’s defense, Hayes is joined by Fred Clark andMcKinley Hamilton at the corners. DeAndre Butler, Marquis Sims andAdrian Newton rotate at free safety and strong safety.

At linebacker, David Fields, T.J. Floyd, Travis Sorrels and JoshButler fill the gaps. The Hornets’ rugged front line is anchored byAnthony Thompson, C.J. Duckworth, Cody Teekel, LaPatrick Smith,Cody Langham and Devon Pizarras.

“Our defense made a couple of stops in the red zone,” saidHayes. “We stepped up and played hard. North Pike was strong andfast. They had a bunch of athletes.”

Loyd Star is enjoying an open date this week as the Hornetsprepare for a strong Region 6-2A menu, starting with Madison St.Joseph next week for homecoming.

Hayes said he believes the Hornets can continue their winningways. “We have to know our assignments, listen to our coaches andplay team ball for all four quarters.”

The Hornets are taking care of business, one game at a time.