"I guess you could say I'm an all-purpose running back," said Hakeem Deggs (5-8, 165). "I have good speed. I ran a 4.3 at LSU's camp. There were a couple of guys who ran sub-4.4's, like James Oden (Amite RB).
"I finished fifth in the state in the 100 meters. We were in 3A, so I ran against ('13 LSU commit) Jeryl Brazil. I had a 10.8 at the state meet and that's my PR."
Last year, Deggs -- who plays halfback in Plaquemine's triple-option offense -- ran for 525 yards on 67 attempts (7.84 yards per carry) with nine touchdowns.
He led the team in receiving, kickoff returns and punt returns. The Green Devils rarely throw the ball, but when they do, they look for Deggs (2 receptions, 83 yards, 2 TDs).
Deggs hauled in a 61-yard reception versus Glen Oaks, returned a punt 80 yards versus Livonia and returned kicks for 83 yards against Glen Oaks and 95 yards vs. Washington-Marion.
"I use my vision and quickness on kick returns," he said. "I make good cuts and I'm not scared."
He riddled Catholic-New Iberia's defense for a season-high 108 yards on 12 carries (70 long) and a touchdown in Plaquemines' 40-17 rout of the Panthers in week five.
The Green Devils, who reached the second round of the Class 3A playoffs last year (lost to Notre Dame-Crowley), open the '11 season against nearby rival Brusly.
Having moved up to 4A, Plaquemine's new district includes powerful Lutcher and RB Daniel Taylor, a player with a similar skill-set to Deggs.
"I've been watching film of Taylor," said Deggs. "He's good. I can't wait until we battle (in week ten). I think I'm going to outshine him.
"I really believe that."