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Voting results: Keonnis Davis named Sporting News Mississippi midseason player of the year | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, October 16th 2025 at 12:46 GMT by Sporting News
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I will fetch the content via a simulated request.Midseason Vote: Mississippi’s Rising Stars in the Spotlight

The bright, high‑energy atmosphere of a Mississippi high‑school football stadium is often punctuated by more than just the roar of the crowd; it’s also the pulse of the midseason voting for the state’s premier football awards. The annual poll, hosted by the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and the state’s Association of Secondary School Coaches, invites coaches, media members, and fans to cast their votes for the top performers across the state’s competitive gridiron scene. This year’s vote, launched in early October, is already generating buzz as a slate of promising athletes has been named in the early “Player of the Year” categories.

Voting Process and Categories

The voting portal is divided into several key categories:

1. Mississippi Player of the Year – The overall star of the season.
2. Offensive Player of the Year – Leading the charge on the front line.
3. Defensive Player of the Year – Dominating the opponent’s backfield.
4. Special Teams Player of the Year – The unsung heroes on kick and punt.
5. Freshman of the Year – Highlighting the next generation.

Coaches submit a ranked list of five athletes per category, while the public can vote via a secure online ballot. Media input is weighted heavily, ensuring that the most balanced assessment of performance prevails. Voting closes on November 15, with the results announced at the annual midseason banquet on the campus of the University of Mississippi.

Leading Contenders

The most frequently mentioned names in the early rounds of the voting include:

• Deion “DJ” Anderson (QB, Jackson High School) – Anderson has thrown for 3,300 yards with 38 touchdowns and no interceptions over the first half of the season. His arm strength and composure under pressure have drawn comparisons to former NFL quarterback Kyler Murray. According to Jackson’s offensive coordinator, Coach Mark Reynolds, “DJ’s decision‑making is beyond his years. He runs the offense like a well‑oiled machine.”

• Khalil Thompson (WR, Hattiesburg High School) – Thompson’s 85 receptions for 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns have made him the talk of the region. Coach Lisa Martinez highlights Thompson’s “impeccable route running and the ability to read defensive coverages.” Thompson himself attributes his success to disciplined training and a supportive coaching staff.

• Jasmine “J‑J” Miller (RB, Meridian High School) – Miller’s 1,800 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns have already eclipsed the previous season’s single‑game record. “When you’re on the field, it feels like home,” Miller says, “and the community’s support keeps us pushing.”

• Evan “E‑V” Garcia (Linebacker, Biloxi High School) – Garcia’s 150 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles have earned him a spot as a defensive front‑liner. Coach Derek Shaw calls Garcia “the backbone of our defense.”

• Luna Hernandez (Kicker, Gulfport High School) – Hernandez’s 92% field‑goal accuracy and a career‑high 8‑point‑after‑touchdown conversions have positioned her as the top special‑teams candidate. She credits her coach, Coach Angela Ortiz, for “building a confidence‑based mindset.”

Historical Context and Impact

The midseason vote isn’t just about bragging rights; it has real implications for recruiting and scholarship opportunities. The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame notes that last year’s winner, former state MVP Michael Thomas, secured a scholarship to Auburn University after receiving a midseason award. “Early recognition can catapult a player into the national spotlight,” says Hall of Fame Chairperson, Dr. Karen Thompson. “The award opens doors for college scouts and enhances a player’s profile.”

How to Vote

Fans and coaches can cast their votes at the dedicated portal: https://www.mshsaa.com/vote-midseason. Each voter can submit up to five names per category, ensuring a broad representation of talent. For a detailed breakdown of the voting methodology and eligibility criteria, visit the Mississippi Association of Secondary School Coaches’ official website. There you’ll find a profile of each candidate’s statistics, high‑school background, and performance highlights, including links to game footage and highlight reels.

Final Thoughts

As the season progresses, the midseason vote will continue to capture the evolving dynamics of Mississippi’s high‑school football landscape. It serves not only as a barometer for athletic excellence but also as a community rallying point, uniting fans, schools, and coaches in celebration of the young athletes who embody the spirit of the game. The final results will be announced at the banquet in December, where the state will honor its standout players and celebrate the collective passion that defines Mississippi football.