Revisiting the top performances of Week 1 high school football in Lebanon County

It's time to revisit Week 1.

Through the opening week of football season, Lebanon County saw some standout individual performances. As each squad prepares for its upcoming matchup, here is an overview of the five best stat lines from the weekend.

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Jonathon Shay, Annville-Cleona Dutchmen

Following a dominant 2023 season, all expectations were high for Shay coming into Week 1. Despite the Dutchmen's 39-36 loss to Biglerville, Shay further proved he can be a force on the field at all three phases.

The 6-foot-3 running back and linebacker put up 224 yards and one touchdown, while adding a team-high 10 tackles, including two for a loss. He even blocked a field goal attempt on special teams, so Shay's 2024 campaign should continue to see him impact each side of the ball. His squad may need more of his highlight performances, but Shay's opening day puts him in early discussions for the league's player of the year.

Justin Kaplan, Palmyra Cougars

Justin Kaplan didn't take a single carry on offense, but led the Cougars in touchdowns Friday night. The senior running back finished his performance with three scores, including an 8-yard receiving touchdown and two punt returns. Kaplan's only offensive touch came in the first quarter, but his special teams contributions were clear. During his second-quarter run, the 5-11 athlete brought back a 42 yard return before taking home a 75-yard touchdown. Kaplan's ability with the ball showed in Week 1, and gives promise that he can continue as an all-around playmaker for the Cougars this season.

Isaiah Zimmerman, Cedar Crest Falcons

In a dominant game, Isaiah Zimmerman found ways to make the most of each carry. The Falcons' sophomore runner tallied 217 yards and two touchdowns, while averaging over 15 yards per carry. His longest rush of the day also went for 60 yards, so Zimmerman has shown he can be a big-play threat on offense.

Myles Watson, Northern Lebanon Vikings

The Vikings returned crucial starters from last season, and their running game saw the benefits of it in the opener versus Pine Grove. Myles Watson finished with 200 yards on the ground, and he had the only touchdown of the team's 10-0 win. The senior back took 27 carries in the first game, so it looks like he could become the go-to option on the Vikings offense this year.

Braxtin Risser, Palmyra Cougars

Risser's electric ability stood out versus Lebanon, and it led to his first 100-yard game of 2024. The junior running back put up 117 yards along with two touchdowns on the ground, and ripped off big plays constantly. Risser's first score was a 10-yard rush that saw him juke multiple opponents, and he also had a 71-yard play later in action. If Risser continues to take most of Palmyra's carries, he could produce all year long.

This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: Revisiting the top performances of Week 1 high school football in Lebanon County