OXFORD – Kewan Lacy's journey to becoming one of the top running backs in America is marked by determination, talent, and the influence of those who believed in him. Jason Todd, the head coach at South Oak Cliff High School, recalls a memorable moment from when Lacy played for Lancaster High School. During a game against Todd's vaunted defense, Lacy executed a remarkable 49-yard touchdown run, showcasing his ability to evade multiple defenders. Todd, who has coached numerous superstars over his 25-year career, reflected on Lacy's innate talent, saying, "I think he was destined by God just to find the end zone."
Before Lacy became an All-American at Ole Miss and graced the cover of EA Sports College Football 27, he was a force to be reckoned with in the Dallas area. After a modest start at Missouri, where he had only 23 carries as a true freshman, Lacy transferred to Ole Miss. There, he made an immediate impact, tying the school’s single-season rushing record with 1,567 yards and setting a new mark for rushing touchdowns with 24, earning him a spot as a Doak Walker Award finalist.
The Daily Journal recently spoke with Lacy’s former high school coaches, teammates, and opponents to uncover the stories that illustrate his rise to prominence. Former Lancaster running backs coach Gilbert Fears emphasized Lacy's relentless drive, stating, "He really wants to be the best... everything that he does, he does to put himself in position to have that opportunity."
Lacy's journey began when he and his brother transferred to Lancaster from Nolan Catholic High School. In his sophomore year, Lacy quickly established himself as a key player, rushing for 730 yards and 11 touchdowns. His partnership with fellow running back Kyson Brown proved to be dynamic, as they often alternated between running back and receiver, pushing each other to excel. Former Lancaster head coach Leon Paul noted that Lacy's willingness to accept coaching and high expectations was refreshing.
Throughout his high school career, Lacy's strength and versatility stood out. He was not only a powerful runner but also a capable receiver, catching 32 passes for 480 yards and five touchdowns during his time at Lancaster. His ability to play multiple positions made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, as coaches struggled to predict where he would line up. Paul remarked on Lacy's unique skill set, saying, "What made him different was his ability to go out there and play receiver, his blocking, and his elite speed."
Lacy's high school career culminated in a senior season where he rushed for 1,589 yards and 22 touchdowns, earning recognition as an all-area pick by the Dallas Morning News. Despite his impressive performance, many believed he was underrated in the recruiting landscape. Ranked as the No. 15 running back in the nation by 247Sports Composite, Lacy's talent was often overshadowed by other prominent players in Texas.
After transferring to Ole Miss, Lacy's skills flourished, leading him to become one of the nation’s best running backs. He led the country with 335 touches and scored in 14 consecutive games. His loyalty to Ole Miss, despite speculation about a potential transfer to LSU, has endeared him to fans and coaches alike. Lacy's journey from a relatively unknown high school player to a college football star reflects not only his talent but also the support and belief of those who guided him along the way. As he continues to make strides in his career, Lacy remains grounded, often returning to his roots in Dallas, where he trains and reflects on his journey.
Leave a Comment