CLARKSTON, Ga. — The public address announcer’s setup for the opening kickoff — “back for Woodward Academy, No. 13, Elijah Holyfield” — was still echoing through the stadium Friday when the ball descended into the player’s midsection.

By the time some unknowing spectators on the host Clarkston High side of the field received confirmation that Elijah Holyfield was related to that Evander Holyfield, the young player had gone 97 yards untouched into the end zone.

Three touchdowns followed in the first half for Elijah, the eighth of 11 children of the 51-year-old Evander, an overachieving boxer remembered almost as much for not knowing when to shut down his career as for the titles he claimed along the way. His last bout, presumably, was in May 2011.

Elijah is making his own name in another physically harsh sport. He is regarded as among the most coveted junior running backs in the country, with prestigious colleges programs vying to sign him.