Louisiana’s 2024 Louisiana Sports Writers Association, Mr. Football, Xavier Ford of Leesville has committed to the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.  Ford signed his letter of intent to play with the Golden Gophers of the Big Ten conference following a visit last weekend.

Ford ran for over 3460 yards this season and 52 TD’s, leading Leesville to the Division II Select semifinals.  Ford broke the National Federation of High School Association’s single-season record for yards rushing in his senior year.

Ford had been contacted by Minnesota RB coach Nic McKissic-Luke since the end of September.  Minnesota staff attended one of Ford’s games.  Ford visited the campus in Minneapolis recently, met staff and players, and was shown around the campus and city.

The 5’9”, 210-lb. Ford was rated a three-star prospect by 247 Sports.  Minnesota also signed three-star prospects from Illinois and Pennsylvania at the RB position.

Ford’s prolific career at Leesville High included being named All-State for three years and amassing 87591 career rushing yards and 123 TD’s.  Leesville football fans now can follow the Golden Gophers of Minnesota in the Big Ten conference.  This year Minnesota finished 8-5 and won the Duke’s Mayo Bowl over Virginia Tech.

Congratulations, Xavier Ford, on your accomplishments in high school and best of luck in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.