Greenies use explosive offensive plays and a crucial defensive stand to secure a 45–35 victory over the Cajuns
NEW ORLEANS, La. — October 29, 2026
The Isidore Newman Greenies continued their impressive season Thursday night, defeating the Metairie Park Country Day Cajuns 45–35 in an entertaining, high-scoring matchup that featured explosive touchdowns, momentum swings and a determined second-half comeback.
Newman built a 31–7 halftime advantage, but Country Day responded with an aggressive offensive performance after the break, making the Greenies work until the final stages of the contest.
Despite the Cajuns’ rally, Newman delivered several critical plays down the stretch to preserve the victory and maintain its unbeaten record.
Newman Erupts for 31 First-Half Points
Country Day opened the scoring when sophomore quarterback Jack Grace connected with junior receiver Preston Snyder on a 30-yard touchdown pass to give the Cajuns an early 7–0 lead.
Newman answered with a 10-yard touchdown run by sophomore running back Jayce Irving, tying the contest and shifting the momentum.
The Greenies then took control through a series of explosive offensive plays and defensive stops.
Early in the second quarter, sophomore quarterback Jaylen Hunter connected with senior Ren Guidry, who delivered the ball to junior Tanner Robert on a 68-yard hook-and-lateral touchdown play. The score gave Newman its first lead of the evening.
The Greenies struck again just two minutes later when Guidry connected with senior Hendrix Hill on a screen pass that turned into a spectacular 90-yard touchdown.
Newman continued to capitalize on its opportunities as Hunter found junior A.J. Yunusah for a 9-yard touchdown pass. Senior kicker Atticus LaFleur added a 27-yard field goal just before halftime.
Newman’s defense contributed to the first-half advantage with consecutive fourth-down stops and an interception by senior defensive back Ben Singer.
By halftime, the Greenies had built a commanding 31–7 lead.
Country Day Mounts a Second-Half Rally
Country Day returned from halftime determined to make the game competitive.
After a quieter opening to the second half for Newman, the Cajuns began finding their rhythm offensively.
Grace connected with senior running back Justin Drago for a 68-yard gain, setting up a major scoring opportunity. Country Day followed with a 75-yard touchdown pass to junior wide receiver Curtis McAllister, who made an impressive catch over two defenders before racing toward the end zone.
The touchdown helped Country Day cut into Newman’s advantage and breathe new life into the Cajuns’ comeback effort.
McAllister continued to make an impact throughout the second half, finishing with more than 250 total yards and contributing another touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Country Day also created additional scoring opportunities, including a drive that set up a touchdown for senior Kellen Brewer.
The Cajuns’ offensive production put pressure on Newman and demonstrated why the Greenies could not afford to relax despite their substantial halftime lead.
Critical Defensive Stop Changes the Momentum
As Country Day continued to fight its way back into contention, Newman responded with timely plays on both sides of the ball.
Senior wide receiver Elliott Rice delivered an important 49-yard catch-and-run late in the third quarter, helping the Greenies maintain separation on the scoreboard.
The decisive defensive moment arrived when junior linebacker A.J. Yunusah helped stop a crucial fourth-down rushing attempt by Country Day.
The stop prevented the Cajuns from extending their comeback and gave Newman an opportunity to deliver another major offensive play.
The Greenies took advantage when Hunter connected with senior Alex Roth on a 74-yard touchdown pass. The explosive play extended Newman’s advantage and provided a critical response to Country Day’s second-half surge.
Country Day continued attempting onside kicks to regain possession and create additional scoring opportunities, but the Cajuns were unable to recover one.
Newman’s ability to protect its lead during the closing stages ultimately proved decisive.
Newman Keeps Its Perfect Season Intact
The 45–35 victory improved Newman to 8–0 overall and 3–0 in district play, while Country Day fell to 5–4 overall and 3–1 in district competition.
For Newman, the win showcased the team’s offensive explosiveness and its ability to respond when an opponent threatens to change the game’s momentum.
The Greenies’ first-half performance created the advantage they needed, while their fourth-quarter execution helped prevent Country Day from completing the comeback.
Country Day demonstrated considerable resilience, particularly through its passing attack and McAllister’s standout performance. However, missed opportunities and Newman’s timely defensive plays made the difference.
With the regular season approaching its conclusion, Newman will look to carry its undefeated momentum into its next matchup against Covenant Christian Academy.
Country Day will look to rebound when it hosts East Jefferson.
Thursday night’s contest served as a reminder that big leads are never entirely safe against an explosive offense. Newman weathered the challenge, delivered when it mattered most and walked away with another important victory.
FINAL SCORE
Isidore Newman Greenies — 45
Metairie Park Country Day Cajuns — 35
