Governors' Anchor: DeShawn Smith Excels on Field, in Classroom
Pierre Governors' left tackle DeShawn Smith has been a stalwart on the 11A team's line, allowing just one sack in the past five games of the 2025 season. The senior's impressive performance has earned him a spot among the top linemen in the state. But Smith's prowess extends far beyond the gridiron. He maintains a 4.0 grade point average, a feat that has caught the attention of college scouts. Coaches praise Smith's ability to balance academic rigor with the demands of varsity football. 'He's a leader in the classroom and on the field,' said Governors' head coach, Mark Johnson. Smith's academic success has opened doors to top colleges, including the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University. As the Governors prepare for the 2026 season, scouts will be watching to see how Smith adapts to new defensive schemes and whether he can maintain his academic excellence in the face of increasing competition.