2018 Football Preview

2018 FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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Loaded Colonels enter season with sky-high expectations

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

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NICHOLL S COLONEL S

Nicholls players, community excited about program’s resurgence

By Kelly McElroy Staff Writer

Nicholls fans celebrate during last season’s Football Championship Subdivision first-round playoff game against South Dakota at John L. Guidry Stadium in Thibodaux. [FILE – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

NICHOLL S COLONEL S

oach Tim Rebowe, his staff and the home-grown players on the Nicholls State University football team made something that was seemingly impossible possible.

Entering his fourth season in Thibodaux, Rebowe and the Colonels have transformed Nicholls from one of the worst Division I programs in the country before his arrival in 2015 to again being considered one of the best Football Championship Subdivision teams in the nation.

In Rebowe’s first season of 2015, he used a strong recruiting class to help the Colonels improve from 0-11 overall in 2014 to 3-6 overall.

Nicholls took another step in 2016 when freshman quarterback Chase Fourcade became the starter and nearly led the team to victory over nationally ranked Georgia.

The Colonels continued to grow and finished 2016 at 5-6 overall and were highly competitive in most of their games.

That set the stage for a special 2017.

Nicholls started with a thrilling 37-35 season-opening victory on a last-second field goal by Lorran Fonseca that Rebowe said set the tempo for the rest of the year.

The Colonels, playing with mostly players from south Louisiana, rode that momentum to an 8-4 overall record, a 7-2 finish in the SLC and to the first round of the FCS playoffs (their first postseason appearance since 2005) where they fell 38-31 to South Dakota at John L. Guidry Stadium in front of more than 10,000 fans, the most people to attend an FCS first-round playoff game last season.

What happened on that late November night in 2017 at Guidry Stadium was a vision Rebowe shared with Fourcade, who had chances to play elsewhere in college, when he was recruiting him out of Archbishop Rummel High School in New Orleans.

“I get chills talking about it,” Fourcade said. “When I was in high school Coach told me what we were going to

Nicholls cheerleaders fire up the crowd during last season’s Football Championship Subdivision first-round playoff game between Nicholls and South Dakota at John L. Guidry Stadium in Thibodaux. [FILE – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

do. I feel like we are doing it now. But we are not done yet. It is just getting started. It’s a process. We had to start the bottom and work our way up. We have the guys and coaching staff that can do it. We are just trying to enjoy the moment and these times with each other.”

Rebowe, a Norco native and an assistant coach at Louisiana-Lafayette before becoming head coach at Nicholls, and the Colonels have ignited a flame of Nicholls football fever in Thibodaux and the surrounding areas.

Rebowe has been an engaging force in the community and has stressed the importance of having former

Nicholls players heavily involved with the program.

Former Colonels defensive lineman Shane Kliebert, who played from 2001-04 and is now an assistant principal at his alma mater St. James High School, said the former Nicholls players have embraced the chance to support the program.

Kliebert is a Colonels super fan and major player in the ‘Huddle-Up Club,’ a group of former players and program supporters setup to raise money for the football team.

“I am the kind of guy who is always counting down to game day and I get so fired up for games that it feels like I am still playing sometimes and still

suiting up,” Kliebert said. “‘HuddleUp’ gives an opportunity for former players and friends, people who care about the program, a chance to help with the things that may not always be available at this level, like warmups or sweats. It’s like a big-brother system. We meet with them and speak with them from time to time.

You also get to meet with Coach (Rebowe) before the game.”

Kliebert said the trust factor between Rebowe and the former and current Nicholls players makes for a special bond.

“There is some trust that goes with See NICHOLLS, 52

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NICHOLL S COLONEL S

Colonels return bulk of roster, expecting big things in 2018

By Kelly McElroy Staff Writer

Prior to the start of the 2015 football season – Tim Rebowe’s first as the head coach at Nicholls State University – not much was expected of the Colonels by those not directly associated with the program.

Nicholls was picked to finish 10th out of 11 teams in the Southland Conference preseason poll and had just one player receive any kind of SLC preseason recognition.

Oh how things have changed in Thibodaux.

As Rebowe and the Colonels embark on their 2018 season (after a breakout 2017 season in which Nicholls went 8-4 overall, 7-2 in the SLC and made the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs for the first time since 2005), Nicholls was selected second in the SLC preseason poll and had a league-leading 14 players receive preseason all-conference honors.

Rebowe, entering his fourth season as head coach, has turned the program around, and following a 38-31 home loss to South Dakota in the first round of the FCS playoffs last year in which the Colonels were denied a late touchdown that could have tied the game or given the team the lead with a twopoint conversion, his team of mostly players from south Louisiana are loaded heading into the 2018 season.

The Colonels return 18 starters – eight on offense, eight on defense and two on special teams -- and are ranked 18th in the STATS FCS preseason poll.

“Coming from when I was a freshman to now, it is really different,” Colonels senior and starting center Ryan Hanley said. “We have some older guys on the team now and there is just so much experience. It’s hard to believe how far we have come in four years. As a freshman, I could not have seen this happening. We are all just really excited for the season.”

The Colonels open the season with a challenging four-game stretch.

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Tim Rebowe FCS Southland Conference 2017 overall record: 8-4 2017 SLC record: 7-2 Years as head coach: 4 Record at school: 16-18 Overall record: 16-18 Last time in FCS playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Sept. 1: at Kansas Sept. 8: at Tulane Sept. 15: at McNeese State* Sept. 22: Sam Houston State* Sept. 29: Lamar* Oct. 6: at Northwestern State* Oct. 13: at Abilene Christian* Oct. 27: Incarnate Word* Nov. 3: at Houston Baptist* Nov. 10: Stephen F. Austin* Nov. 15: Southeastern Louisiana* *SLC games All games can be heard on 100.3-FM and 1600-AM

2017 REVIEW Nicholls quarterback Chase Fourcade (9) finds some running room against South Dakota’s defense during last season’s Football Championship Subdivision first-round playoff game in Thibodaux. [FILE]

They play at Football Bowl Subdivision teams Kansas and Tulane in the first two weeks of the season then play at SLC power McNeese in Week 3 and then host league and FCS power Sam Houston State in Week 4 as they begin a stretch of nine conference games in a row to close the regular season.

Sam Houston has won the league four times since 2011, made the FCS playoffs seven years in a row, played in 23 playoffs games in that time span and finished as national runner-up twice (2011 and 2012).

But Rebowe said the players and staff at Nicholls are busy gearing up for just one game – the Sept. 1 opener at Kansas.

“Guys are working really hard,” Rebowe said. “They are locked in and focused.”

Here is a closer look at the Colonels heading into 2018:

OFFENSE The Colonels were fifth in the SLC in scoring at 28.2 points per game and fifth with 402.5 yards per game. They were also ninth in passing and second in rushing in the league and return junior quarterback Chase Fourcade, who is entering his third season as the Nicholls starting quarterback.

In 2017, Fourcade was 162-of-298 for 2,316 yards with 14 touchdowns and 13 interceptions and rushed for 279 yards on 83 carries and a score.

He said heading into 2018 the offense is focusing on tempo, while he is working to become a more consistent quarterback.

“We are trying to get our tempo down, and I think that will come,” Fourcade said. “Personally, I want to See EXPERIENCE, 53

Def. McNeese, 37-35; lost to Texas A&M, 24-14; def. Prairie View A&M, 44-13; lost to Sam Houston State, 66-17; def. Lamar 41-14; def. Northwestern State, 14-10; def. Abilene Christian 29-20; def. Incarnate Word, 38-31; def. Houston Baptist, 23-17; def. Stephen F. Austin, 34-13; lost to Southeastern Louisiana, 21-17. FCS Playoffs: lost to South Dakota, 38-31 (first round) KEY PLAYERS RETURNING QB Chase Fourcade (6-0, 190, Jr), RB Kyran Irvin (6-1, 220, Jr.), WR Damion Jeanpiere Jr. (6-1, 185, Sr.), WR Dai'Jean Dixon (6-4, 200, Soph.), LT Eddie Houston (6-2, 280, Sr.), C Ryan Hanley (6-2, 290, Sr.), RG P.J. Burkhalter (6-3, 330, Soph.), RT Chandler Arceneaux (6-4, 300, Sr.), DE Kenny Dotson (6-3, 250, Sr.), DL Sully Laiche (6-2, 270, Jr.), LB Allen Pittman (5-11, 215, Jr.), LB Hezekiah White (6-0, 220, Sr.), LB Laryon James (6-0, 210, Jr.), CB Darryl Adams Jr. (6-2, 190, Sr.), DB Ahmani White (5-10, 185, Sr.), DB Corey Abraham (6-0, 205, Sr.), K Lorran Fonseca (5-11, 185, Sr.), LS Wesley Barnett (5-11, 215, Sr.)

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

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NICHOLL S COLONEL S

Colonels roster features a bunch of local flavors

By Chris Singleton Staff Writer

When he accepted the job in 2015, Nicholls State University football coach Tim Rebowe made it one of his main priorities to fill his roster with players from the Bayou Region.

After four years as Nicholls coach, Rebowe has succeeded with his mission.

There are 21 players from Terrebonne, Lafourche, Assumption and St. James parishes on the Nicholls football roster this season.

Rebowe said it brings joy to his heart to see local bayou kids wearing the red-and-gray colors of Nicholls.

“I love it. There is talent all around this area. I want to keep all the players here at home,” Rebowe said. “It’s good that their families could come see them play and watch. It’s great to have everybody in the community involved.”

One of the key local players on the Nicholls roster is senior offensive lineman Chandler Arceneaux, who played high school ball at South Terrebonne High School in Bourg.

Arceneaux (6-foot-4, 300-pounds) has emerged as one of the key blockers. The Colonels averaged 200.2 rushing yards per game last season, which was second-best in the Southland Conference.

Arceneaux said it has been a blessing to play for Nicholls.

“It’s great to be able to stay close to home,” said Arceneaux, a preseason Football Championship Subdivision All-American and first-team Preseason All-Southland Conference selection. “We get to represent our towns and our high schools. It’s nice being a part of a group that got to turn this program around.”

Senior fullback Mason Boudreaux, a former South Lafourche standout, is another bayou kid playing for the Colonels.

Boudreaux played in the first two games of his junior season last year before suffering a season-ending knee injury.

As he enters his senior year, Boudreaux said he is ready to give it his all.

“It’s my senior year, so I have a lot of motivation,” Boudreaux said. “I just want to finish out my last year the best it can be. I just hope I can contribute. I’ve been battling injuries for a while. It’s good to knock the rust off and get back to work.”

When Arceneaux and Boudreaux joined Nicholls’ program, they were coming off an 0-12 season in 2014.

They have watched Nicholls grow from a struggling team to a possible Southland Conference title contender as seniors.

The Colonels went 8-4 last season and hosted a FCS first-round playoff game for the first time in school history.

Rebowe said he is glad that players like Arceneaux, Boudreaux and other seniors have worked hard over the years to turn the program around.

Now they are getting a chance to enjoy the results of their hard work.

“Those guys have been through it.

We’re so happy for them that those guys can experience winning seasons,” Rebowe said. “Now it’s their turn to be the senior leaders of this squad. They remind those younger guys how it was a couple of years ago and they don’t want to go back that way. I couldn’t be happier for them.

They are great leaders and young men, and they are going to go on to do a bunch of great things.”

Boudreaux said it would be special to win a conference title this season “It would be awesome to win a conference championship, especially going from 0-12 in our freshman year,” Boudreaux said. “That was a rough year, but going from there to becoming a conference championship

Nicholls senior fullback Mason Boudreaux looks for a running lane during a team scrimmage on Aug. 11 at John L. Guidry Stadium in Thibodaux. Boudreaux is a former South Lafourche player. [BERT MILLER/CORRESPONDENT -- HOUMATODAY/ DAILYCOMET]

would mean a lot.”

Arceneaux said it has always been his dream of winning a championship ring.

“That would be awesome. That’s what you playing for — a championship. It would be great to get a ring and go back home and show everybody and put Nicholls back on the map.”

Redshirt sophomore linebacker Aquindas Steib, a former St. James athlete, is also enjoying his time with the Colonels.

Steib (5-11, 220 pounds) played in all 12 games at linebacker and on special teams for Nicholls last year. He finished with 16 tackles (eight solo) with his career best coming in a fivetackle performance against Texas A&M last season.

After getting a redshirt in 2016, Steib said he enjoyed being able to play with Nicholls last year.

“It was a great experience last year,” Steib said. “I learned a lot, but I’m thankful for the upperclassmen

Here is a list of local players from Terrebonne, Lafourche, Assumption and St. James parishes who are on the Nicholls State University football roster this fall: ASSUMPTION Redshirt sophomore offensive lineman Jair Joseph CENTRAL LAFOURCHE Redshirt sophomore defensive back Anfernee Poindexter Freshman receiver David Robinson Jr. E.D. WHITE CATHOLIC Junior running back Jeremy Rounds Junior defensive back Kairon Brooks Junior punter Winston Jones H.L. BOURGEOIS Redshirt freshman running back Damontrion Brunson Freshman kicker Bray Dusenberry Freshman receiver Alek Domangue SOUTH LAFOURCHE Senior fullback Mason Boudreaux Freshman offensive lineman Chad Cheramie SOUTH TERREBONNE Senior offensive lineman Chandler Arceneaux Redshirt sophomore defensive back Chris Duplantis Sophomore offensive lineman Charlton Arceneaux ST. JAMES Redshirt sophomore receiver Arron McKenney Redshirt sophomore linebacker Aquindas Steib Redshirt freshman receiver Dontaze Costly THIBODAUX Redshirt freshman linebacker Donnell Adair Freshman long snapper Jalen Himel VANDEBILT CATHOLIC Redshirt freshman offensive lineman Zach Trahan Freshman running back Brennan Rogers

that helped me and been staying on me. It was a great experience. I love to see what the future holds.”

Steib, who was an All-State linebacker at St. James as a senior, said it is an honor to be in the Nicholls program.

“It was one of the best decisions of my life coming to play for Coach Rebowe and being around great people,” Steib said. “It was a good decision.”

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

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A S S U M P T I O N M U S TA N G S

Mustangs have dreams of winning District 7-4A title

By Brent St. Germain Sports Editor

NAPOLEONVILLE — Assumption High School’s main gym has a display showing the success of its sports teams.

Since the 1960 season, Assumption’s football team has had its share of success on the gridiron.

The Mustangs won the 1964 Class 2A state title and finished as the Class 2A runner-up in 1960.

The display also indicates the 11 seasons when Assumption won a district championship, which includes the 2015 and 2016 seasons.

After coming up short of a threepeat last season, Assumption’s 2018 seniors are determined to end their high school career with this season's district championship accomplishment etched on the display.

“We are hungry because we want to win that district championship again,” senior linebacker/defensive end Josh Ratcliff said. “We want our district championship to show up on that board.”

Injuries took a toll on the Mustangs last season. They finished 5-6 overall and 3-2 in District 7-4A. Assumption’s season ended with a first-round playoff loss to North DeSoto.

Senior offensive lineman Zane Blanchard said the Mustangs have been waiting to start this season moments after the final seconds ticked off the clock in their playoff loss to North DeSoto.

“I’ve been waiting for this moment as soon as we finished last season,” he said. “We could have done a lot better last year, but we didn’t. Last season we came up short to our expectations, and honestly, I want to win another district title.”

Assumption coach Anthony Paine said the players have been working hard and believes they have what it takes to contend for their third District 7-4A title in four seasons.

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Anthony Paine Class 4A District 7-4A 2017 overall record: 5-6 District record: 4-2 Years as head coach: 7 Record at school: 34-32 Overall record: 34-32 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: Donaldsonville Sept. 7: at Patterson Sept. 14: Terrebonne Sept. 21: E.D. White Catholic* Sept. 28: at South Terrebonne* Oct. 5: South Lafourche* Oct. 11: at Ellender* Oct. 19: Vandebilt Catholic* Oct. 26: at Isidore Newman Nov. 2: at Morgan City* *District 7-4A game

2017 REVIEW

Senior offensive lineman Zane Blanchard (64), senior linebacker Josh Ratcliff (12) and senior quarterback Tajh Parker (7) are expected to play key roles for the Assumption Mustangs this season. [BRENT ST. GERMAIN/STAFF – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

But Paine said a lot has to happen to make that goal a reality.

“That should be everybody’s goal when you start a season,” Paine said.

“A lot of things have to bounce your way for that to happen. You have to stay healthy, and the battle in our district race will be who will be healthy at the end. That’s how I see it because we have a lot of good competition coming back.”

One of the keys for the Mustangs will be the health of senior quarterback Tajh Parker.

During Assumptions’ District 7-4A opener against E.D. White Catholic in Week 4 of 2017, Parker suffered a broken collarbone and missed the remainder of the season. Parker was the team’s starting quarterback since his sophomore season.

Parker said he has recovered from his injury and is determined to lead the Mustangs to another district championship.

“I worked hard to get back on the field after being injured last season,” he said. “It was tough sitting back and watching my team play last season.

I have a lot of unfinished business to take care of this season.”

Assumption will head into the season looking to replace its top offensive threat from the 2017 season.

Running back Ernest Adams led the Mustangs with 1,400 yards rushing and 25 touchdowns and added 245 receiving yards and two scores.

Paine said the Mustangs have worked hard to fill that void, and junior Tyran Cassie will be called on to the top ball carrier.

Lost to Donaldsonville, 36-27; def. Patterson, 41-32; lost to Terrebonne, 38-33; lost to E.D. White Catholic, 49-13; def.

South Terrebonne, 52-14; lost to South Lafourche, 20-18; def. Ellender, 33-15; def.

Vandebilt Catholic, 49-20; lost to Isidore Newman, 42-7; def. Morgan City, 57-7.

Class 4A playoffs: lost to North DeSoto, 28-13 (first round).

KEY PLAYERS QB Tajh Parker (5-9, 155, Sr.), RB Tyran Cassie (5-11, 186, Jr.), WR Fred Diggs (5-9, 165, Sr.), OL Zane Blanchard (6-2, 238, Sr.), DB Shawn Hall Jr. (5-11, 175, Sr.), LB/ DE Josh Ratcliff (6-0, 224, Sr.), LB Jarius Tassin (5-9, 195, Sr.), SS Braydon Leonard (5-11, 190, Sr.)

“It’s always tough to replace kids like that, but the season is not going to wait on you,” Paine said. “You need to do what needs to be done to prepare for it both as a player and as a coach. We feel like we have done those things.”

The Mustangs offense will benefit from returning three offensive linemen starter, led by Blanchard.

Assumption’s strength for the 2018 season may be on the defensive side See MUSTANGS, 63

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

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C E N T RA L L A F O U RC H E T ROJA N S

Motivated Trojans set sights on reaching 5A playoffs

By Brent St. Germain Sports Editor

MATHEWS – The Central Lafourche Trojans realize just how close they were to reaching the Class 5A playoffs last season.

Central Lafourche finished the 2017 season with a 3-7 overall record and were 37th in the Louisiana High School Athletic Association’s final Class 5A power ratings, but that’s not why the team realizes how close it was to being a playoff team.

It came down to only a few plays, as the Trojans lost four games by seven points or less last season.

Central Lafourche coach Keith Menard said those close losses are serving as motivation for the upcoming season.

“We lost four games by a touchdown or less last year, so right there we could have gone from a 3-7 season to a 7-3 season,” Menard said. “All the guys really, in their minds, really want to get back to the playoffs. We started in the offseason and continued through practice, and hopefully we can continue to build on that. We play our tails off every week, and hopefully, we can find a way to win the close games.”

Last season, Central Lafourche dropped games by seven points or less to E.D. White Catholic (28-22), Terrebonne (34-28), Destrehan (28-21) and Thbodaux (23-16) and also fell to Carver by eight points (52-44).

Senior offensive lineman Reece Guidry said the Trojans are working hard to make sure that they win those close games this season.

“We played in a lot of close games last season, and losing those games likely cost us a playoff spot," Guidry said. "We have been working hard all summer and all spring to get the job done this season. We are hungry to get that W and make it back to the playoffs.”

Senior quarterback Jacob Barker said the Trojans are using last

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Keith Menard Class 5A District 7-5A 2017 overall record: 3-7 District record: 1-5 Years as head coach: 6 Record at school: 21-30 Overall record: 156-155 Last time in playoffs: 2015

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: E.D. White Catholic Sept. 7: Carver Sept. 14: at South Lafourche Sept. 21: East St. John* Sept. 28: Ellender Oct. 5: at H.L. Bourgeois* Oct. 12: at Destrehan* Oct. 19: at Terrebonne* Oct. 26: Hahnville* Nov. 2: at Thibodaux* *District 7-5A game

2017 REVIEW

Key senior players for the Central Lafourche Trojans this season are Raquan Samuels (16), quarterback Jacob Barker (10), linebacker Ryen Weaver (37) and offensive lineman Reece Guidry (77). [BRENT ST. GERMAIN/STAFF – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

season’s close losses as a learning experience.

“Losing those close games will teach us mental toughness," Barker said. "It will show us how close we are and help us realize that we can get there.”

Menard said the Trojans are not dwelling on the past, as they turn their attention to the 2018 season.

Offensively, Central Lafourche will have to replace Class 5A AllState performer David Robinson Jr., who is a freshman at Nicholls State University. But the Trojans will bring back several returning starters, led

by Barker, junior running back Deon Jenkins and three offensive linemen.

“We are not going to replace David Robinson, but I think we will be more spread out this season,” Menard said.

“Barker has more confidence and now more receivers, so we will have more people touching the football and get going with it.”

Menard said the Trojans’ strength will be running the football led by Jenkins. “(Deon) has been doing a good job as for as seeing his holes,” Menard said. “He recently said ‘I don’t have to think about it now because it just happens, and I know where I am supposed to be.’ I know he feels more comfortable back there since it is his second year as the starting running back.”

Defensively, the Trojans are also returning several key players from last season’s squad led by junior defensive linemen Kobe Guidroz and Trevor Allemand, senior linebacker

Lost to E.D. White Catholic, 28-22; lost to Carver 52-44; def. South Lafourche, 36-24; lost to East St. John, 35-13; def.

Ellender, 35-26; H.L. Bourgeois, 43-34; lost to Destrehan, 28-21; lost to Terrebonne, 34-28; lost to Hahnville, 62-27; lost to Thibodaux, 23-16.

KEY PLAYERS QB Jacob Barker (6-0., 175, Sr.), RB Deon Jenkins (5-7, 185, Jr.), C Reece Guidry (5-9, 230, Sr.), OG Payton Chaisson (5-8, 245, Sr.), DE Kobe Guidroz (6-3, 230, Jr.), DE Trevor Allemand (6-3, 225, Jr.), LB Ryen Weaver (5-8, 190, St.), DB Raquan Samuels (6-0, 165, Sr.).

Ryan Weaver and senior defensive back Raquan Samuels.

Considering many underclassmen were starters last season, Menard said the defense has more experience this season, which could result in improved overall play.

“The guys are better this year than last year,” he said. “Right now, I am seeing a lot more energy and more experience on that side of the football. Our defensive coaches are able to do more things with one year of experience under their belt.”

See TROJANS, 63

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

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C OV E N A N T C H R I S T I A N AC A D E M Y L I O N S

Brutal 2017 schedule has Lions ready for season

By Kelly McElroy Staff Writer

Don’t expect the Covenant Christian Academy football team to back down from any of its 2018 opponents.

That’s because a quick look back at the Lions 2017 schedule will reveal that they competed against the biggest and baddest teams in all of Class 1A. CCA, a playoff team in its own right last season, posted a 6-4 overall record but all four losses came to Class 1A champion West St. John, Class 1A quarterfinalist Varnado, Division IV champion Lafayette Christian Academy (in the first round of the playoffs) and to Division IV runner-up Ascension Catholic.

West St. John, Varnado, Lafayette Christian and Ascension Catholic combined to go 43-10 overall last season.

The Lions return a number of experienced players this season and many were starters or key contributors on last season’s team.

CCA will again run a Wing-T offense.

“We had an offensive mini-camp a couple weeks ago and we were able to run a little bit of our offense, without having to stop and teach,” Lions coach Randy Boquet said. “We feel like we will be able to hit the ground with a little bit of a jog this year and won’t have to teach and teach and teach because we have such a veteran team so hopefully that will pay off for us.”

Some of the key players for the Lions this season will be senior quarterback Nick Legendyk, senior running back/defensive back/return man Anthony Ruffin, senior running back/linebacker Channing Holloway and senior offensive/defensive lineman Collin Davis.

The players said they gained valuable experience from playing so many tough teams last year.

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Randy Boquet Class 1A District 8-1A 2017 overall record: 6-4 District record: 2-2 Years as head coach: 5 Record at school: 28-17 Overall record: 54-53 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: at Fisher Sept. 7: The Church Academy Sept. 14: at Hamilton Christian Sept. 20: at St. John Sept. 28: Ascension Catholic Oct. 5: Varnado* Oct. 12: West St. John* Oct. 19: BYE Oct. 26: at St. Martin’s* Nov. 1: at Houma Christian School* *District 8-1A game

2017 REVIEW

Some of the key seniors for the Covenant Christian Academy Lions this season will be (from left) offensive/defensive lineman Collin Davis, quarterback Nick Legendyk, running back/defensive back/return man Anthony Ruffin and running back/linebacker Channing Holloway. [KELLY MCELROY/STAFF -- HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

“We lost a few key players, but we have a lot of seniors and I think it will be a good group,” Legendyk said. “Playing the kind of teams we played last year helped us gain a lot of experience. I think we will have a good season.”

“We didn’t have too many seniors last year, so we are basically brining back almost the whole team,” Ruffin said. “We have a lot of seniors, so we should be all right. With us playing Ascension Catholic and Lafayette Christian and teams like that, it will only make us better.”

Holloway said he feels good about the Lions and their chances this season.

“I feel confident in my team because we are pretty much all coming back,” Holloway said. “Our

defense is all the same and we have a really good brotherhood here. We are all really close. We are conditioned to make a good playoff run this year.”

Davis will be one of the anchors on the line of scrimmage for the Lions.

“We have a lot of older starters coming back,” Davis said. “We are a mature team this year. We have juniors and seniors coming back in almost every position and they are well experienced. The all-around knowledge of what we are doing is there. We know where those top teams are and we know what we have to do to stick with them. We have increased our strength as a team and we are definitely looking forward to it.”

Although they will be more experienced this season, Boquet also said

Def. Fisher, 27-7; def. the Church Academy, 40-20; def. Hamilton Christian, 50-0; def. St. John, 41-6; lost to Ascension Catholic, 47-0; lost to Varnado, 36-13; lost to West St. John, 53-7; def. St. Martin’s, 30-0; def. Houma Christian School, 35-6.

Division IV playoffs: lost to Lafayette Christian Academy, 34-12 (first round) KEY PLAYERS RB/DB Anthony Ruffin (Sr.), OL/DL Collin Davis (Sr.), OL/DL Za’Vionne Short (Sr.), QB Nick Lagendyk (Sr.), OL/DL Bobby Bland (Jr.), RB/LB Channing Holloway (Sr.), RB Caleb Wilson (Sr.), DB Malachi Ayo (Soph.), LB Blane Boudreaux (Jr.), OL/DL DeAndre Williams (Sr.)

he expects the Lions to be tested with another challenging schedule, which will pit the Lions against the same regular-season opponents from 2017.

“There is tremendous football in Class 1A,” Boquet said. “We are going to have another challenging season and hopefully we can show up and play well, but I like where we are this early on. Like every other team in the state, we need to stay healthy and get a little lucky, but I know that we are going to compete and our kids will show up every Friday night and play hard.”

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

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16 Thursday, August 23, 2018

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E . D . W H I T E C AT H O L I C C A R D I N A L S

Cardinals want to repeat as District 7-4A champions

By Brent St. Germain Sports Editor

The E.D. White Catholic Cardinals will have a lot of new faces when they take the field for their 2018 season opener.

Graduation hit the Cardinals hard and they lost 21 seniors from last season’s team that finished 9-2 overall and posted a 6-0 record en route to a District 7-4A championship in their first season as a Class 4A team.

Because of that, E.D. White will only be returning seven players with starting experience for the 2018 season -- quarterback/defensive back/kick returner Brandon Legendre, running back/free safety Michael Clement, offensive lineman/ linebacker Aaron Benfield, offesnive linemen/defensive end Andrew LeBlanc, offensive linemen/defensive tackle Karson Adams, wide receiver/ defensive back Devin DeSandro, and kicker/punter Miles Loker.

But E.D. White coach Chris Bergeron is not deterred and believes the Cardinals have what it takes to repeat as District 7-4A champions.

“It’s going to be a challenge to fill those holes, but we have a great group of guys ready for it,” Bergeron said.

“The best thing about having a bunch of holes to fill is that it leads to great competition in practice. We believe that the more competition you have in practice the more success it will bring.”

Bergeron is not the only one who believes E.D. White’s new starters are ready for the challenge.

Clement said those players are ready to step up and help the Cardinals win another district championship and advance past the first round of the Division II playoffs. E.D. White was upset by St. Louis Catholic in their playoff opener last year.

“We've got a lot of guys that are really hungry to step up and fill in,” he said. “I think we will be fine and

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Chris Bergeron Class 4A District 7-4A 2017 overall record: 9-2 District record: 6-0 Years as head coach: 5 Record at school: 28-19 Overall record: 28-19 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: at Central Lafourche Sept. 7: at Erath Sept. 14: St. James Sept. 21: at Assumption* Sept. 28: Morgan City* Oct. 5: Vermilion Catholic Oct. 12: at South Terrebonne* Oct. 19: South Lafourche* Oct. 26: at Ellender* Nov. 2: Vandebilt Catholic* *District 7-4A game

2017 REVIEW

enior returning starters for the E.D. White Catholic Cardinals are offensive lineman/ defensive end Andrew LeBlanc (56), offensive lineman/defensive tackle Karson Adams (59), kicker/punter Miles Loker (13), running back/free safety Michael Clement (5), quarterback/defensive back/kick returner Brandon Legendre (3) and offensive lineman/ linebacker Aaron Benfield (73). [BRENT ST. GERMAIN/STAFF – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

solid again.”

Adams said he likes what he has seen and has faith in the new starters.

“We have a lot of guys to replace, but they have the potential to step up,” he said. “We have faith that they will come in and fill the role they are asked to fill.”

While the Cardinals will be looking for many new starters on both sides of the ball, the one position they are solid at is quarterback.

Legendre, a University of Louisiana-Lafayette commitment, returns for his senior season after a solid junior campaign as a quarterback and kick returner.

He was named the Offensive Most Valuable Player in District 7-4A and on The Courier/the Daily Comet’s All-Region Football Team and was a first-team selection on the LouisianaLafayette’s Class 4A team.

As a quarterback, Legendre ran for 1,234 yards on 134 carries (9.2 yards per carry) and threw for 343 yards (13-of-27 passing) with four scores and an interception. He had 27 total touchdowns.

As a kick returner, he had nine punt returns for a 45-yard average and four touchdowns and returned three kickoffs for another 45-yard average and another score. All five kick return touchdowns were of 60 yards or more, which made opposing teams stop kicking to him.

Bergeron said having Legendre back for his senior season will be huge. He gives the Cardinals a chance to win every game.

“Brandon is a tremendous athlete that does some great things with the ball in his hands, but what gets overlooked is the leadership he brings to the field,” Bergeron said. “We will

Def. Central Lafourche, 28-22; def.

Erath 31-0; lost to St. James, 27-21; def.

Assumption, 49-13; def. Morgan City, 49-20; def. Vermilion Catholic, 35-7; def.

South Terrebonne, 49-26; def. South Lafourche, 28-12; def. Ellender, 42-23; def.

Vandebilt Catholic, 45-21.

Division II playoffs: lost to St. Louis Catholic, 22-21 (first round).

KEY PLAYERS QB/DB/KR Brandon Legendre (Sr.), RB/FS Michael Clement (Sr.), OL/LB Aaron Benfield (Sr.), OL/DE Andrew LeBlanc (Sr.), OL/DT Karson Adams (Sr.), WR/DB Devin DeSandro (Jr.), RB/DB Connor Richard (Jr.) and K/P Miles Loker (Sr.).

need it after losing 21 seniors from last year’s team. We are looking for him to do some great things for us.”

Legendre said he is ready for the season to get started and is determined to end his high school career with back-to-back district titles.

“We kind of know that the target is on our back this season,” said Legendre, who also received offers from Notre Dame, Texas Christian University, West Virginia and Arizona State.

See CARDINALS, 66

THE COURIER | DAILY COMET

Thursday, August 23, 2018

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18 Thursday, August 23, 2018

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E L L E N D E R PAT R I O T S

Offseason work has Patriots entering season with confidence

By Kelly McElroy Staff Writer

A 2-8 overall record in 2017 has not diminished the confidence level of the Ellender Patriots heading into this season.

That’s because four of the team’s eight losses last season came by a touchdown or less, and they have been busy in the offseason gearing up for 2018.

Third-year Ellender coach David McCormick said the work the Patriots have put in this past spring and over the summer has the players feeling good.

“I think the confidence they have comes from the hard work they have put into this during the offseason,” McCormick said. “The guys, and especially our senior class, came in and worked in the weight room and we had a great turnout for our summer program. They know the gains they have seen in the weight room will pay off on the field.”

McCormick also said Ellender played a lot of young players who gained valuable experience in 2017.

“We had a lot of young guys playing last year. We had a lot of inexperience on the field,” McCormick said.

“Those guys have a lot of experience coming back and we were competitive in our games last year. We are looking to build on that.”

Some of the leaders on the team – junior running back Jahon Johnson, junior linebacker Jarred Whitrack, senior defensive lineman/linebacker Lance Rockwood, senior defensive back Courtenay Francis and senior defensive lineman Jesse Williams – said the Patriots are ready to redeem themselves in 2017.

Rockwood said it starts by finishing games.

“Our mentality about the fourth quarter has changed,” Rockwood said. “We started giving up a little early last year and it showed out. This

AT A GLANCE Head coach: David McCormick Class 4A District 7-4A 2017 overall record: 2-8 District record: 1-5 Years as head coach: 3 Record at school: 8-13 Overall record: 8-13 Last time in playoffs: 2016

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: Terrebonne Sept. 7: Grace King Sept. 14: at H.L. Bourgeois Sept. 21: South Lafourche* Sept. 28: at Central Lafourche Oct. 4: Vandebilt Catholic* Oct. 11: Assumption* Oct. 19: at Morgan City* Oct. 26: E.D. White Catholic* Nov. 2: at South Terrebonne* *District 7-4A game

2017 REVIEW

A few of the top players for the Ellender Patriots this season are expected to be junior linebacker Jarred Whitrack (40), senior linebacker Lance Rockwood (9), junior running back Jahon Johnson (3) and senior wide receiver/defensive back Courtenay Francis (5).

[KELLY MCELROY/STAFF – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

year, we expect to come harder in the fourth quarter. We know we will have to be able to come harder, play more physical and finish the game. We have to give it our all.”

Francis, who will also play some wide receiver, said the Patriots learned a lot about maintaining their intensity for a full game last year.

“We have to keep pushing until the fourth quarter,” Francis said. “We just have to keep fighting. We will be a lot more explosive on offense this year, and we have some good players on defense too.”

Johnson will enter the season as the featured back for the Patriots.

“We are more disciplined this year,” Johnson said. “We are hungry and we want to show people we are good. We are going to show them this

year. We didn’t put it all together last year, but we will this year.”

Whitrack and Williams said opponents should expect a hard-working and prepared Patriots defense this season.

“We know we have to execute and take it one play at a time,” Whitrack said. “We have players on this team and we have been working all summer. We will do whatever it takes.”

“We have been working hard and we will be ready to go all four downs on defense,” Williams said. “We need to stay focused. We know we are the underdogs this season, but people need to watch out for us.”

McCormick said freshman quarterback Ryan Williams is penciled in as the starter heading into the season.

Lost to Terrebonne, 38-12; def. Grace King, 50-7; lost to H.L. Bourgeois, 40-34; lost to South Lafourche, 28-25; lost to Central Lafourche, 35-26; lost to Vandebilt Catholic, 41-35; lost to Assumption, 33-15; def. Morgan City, 34-21; lost to E.D. White Catholic, 42-23; lost to South Terrebonne, 27-23 KEY PLAYERS QB Ryan Williams (Fresh.), RB Jahon Johnson (Jr.), OL William Travis (Soph.), OL Bradley Martin (Soph.), DL/LB Truvon Price (Jr.), DL/LB Lance Rockwood (Sr.), LB Jarred Whitrack (Jr.), DB Kameron Adkins (Jr.), DB Courtenay Francis (Sr.)

“Ryan is doing a great job with his read progressions,” McCormick said. “He is learning and is way above where a freshman should be. He has been ballin’ out at camps over the summer. I am really impressed with him.”

McCormick also said he is heading into the season with a hungry bunch.

“Our kids are competitive. Our kids don’t quit,” McCormick said.

“When they play us, teams are going to get four competitive quarters of football.”

THE COURIER | DAILY COMET

Thursday, August 23, 2018

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Thursday, August 23, 2018

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H . L . B O U R G E O I S B R AV E S

Braves seek rebirth under new head coach

By Chris Singleton Staff Writer

GRAY – A 1-9 overall season left a bad taste in the mouths of everyone in the H.L. Bourgeois football program.

With the start of a new season coming, the Braves are ready to get a fresh start under new head coach Ryan Fournier.

Fournier, who served as the Braves’ offensive coordinator last season, took over the head coaching role when former coach Carey Melvin resigned in May. The 35-year-old Fournier, a former South Lafourche football player, said his familiarity with the athletes and program will help in their efforts to rebuild H.L. Bourgeois’ football program.

“They’ve adjusted well. I’ve been here a year and I have a prior relationship with them,” Fournier said.

“When they named me head coach, everything kind of fell into place.

The kids bought in immediately. We already had a pretty solid foundation in place, so the transition from offensive coordinator to head coach has been seamless.”

H.L. Bourgeois’ players are confident that they will be able to win more games this season.

“We definitely want to be competitive this year,” senior quarterback Connor Verdin said. “Coming from a bad season last year, we’re trying to put that behind us and focus on this season.”

After last season struggles, the Braves know most football fans in the area will count them out this season, but they are motivated to prove everyone wrong.

“There are a lot of people sleeping on us,” senior defensive lineman Le’Kelan Bougere said. “We want to play with a chip on our shoulder.

We’ve worked hard this summer.

I can’t wait to prove the doubters wrong.”

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Ryan Fournier Class 5A District 7-5A 2017 overall record: 1-9 District record: 0-6 Years as head coach: 1 Record at school: 0-0 Overall record: 0-0 Last time in playoffs: 2016

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: vs. South Terrebonne Sept. 7: at Vandebilt Catholic Sept. 14: Ellender Sept. 21: at Thibodaux* Sept. 28: East St. John* Oct. 5: Central Lafourche* Oct. 12: Lakeshore Oct. 19: at Destrehan* Oct. 26: at Terrebonne* Nov. 2: Hahnville* *District 7-5A game

2017 REVIEW

Key players for H.L. Bourgeois this season will be (from front to back) senior linebacker Trevonte’ Walker, senior quarterback Connor Verdin, senior Z-back Jeremiah Conrey, senior cornerback D’nd Wright and senior defensive lineman Le’Kelan Bougere. [CHRIS SINGLETON/STAFF -- HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

H.L. Bourgeois’ offense will look a little different this season as it has switched from a spread to a Wing-T. The Braves offense will return five starters from last year, including Verdin, senior F-back D’Keyvion Sanders, senior X-Receiver Durwin Jackson, junior right guard Bryce Bergeron and junior center Blake East.

Fournier said he believes the Braves will make a smooth transition to the Wing-T offense, which was once a successful scheme at H.L. Bourgeois in the mid-2000s under former head football coach Randy Boquet. The Braves made the playoffs three times with two district championships and a district runner-up under Boquet’s Wing-T from 2005-07.

“In a lot of cases, going from a spread offense to a Wing-T would be pretty tough to do,” Fournier said. “I think in our case, we have the perfect personnel to do it. It’s a matter of teaching the kids the scheme and getting them going in the right direction.”

Verdin said the Braves have dedicated themselves all offseason towards learning the new offense.

“This offseason, we’ve put in a lot of work,” Verdin said. “Our offense has improved tremendously. Our main objective is to put points on the board.”

While the offense adjusts to its new scheme, Fournier said he will count on the Braves’ defense to carry the

Lost to South Terrebonne, 28-10; Lost to Vandebilt Catholic, 62-12; def. Ellender, 40-34; lost to Thibodaux, 40-6; lost to East St. John, 34-6; lost to Central Lafourche, 43-34; lost to Lakeshore, 44-0; lost to Destrehan, 42-3; lost to Terrebonne, 40-7; lost to Hahnville, 49-0.

KEY PLAYERS QB Connor Verdin (5-9, 160, Sr.); F-back D’Keyvion Sanders (5-9, 149, Sr.); Z-back Jeremiah Conrey (5-8, 211, Sr); X-Receiver Durwin Jackson (5-9, 167, Sr.); DT Le’Kelan Bougere (6-1, 251, Sr.); DE Daquan Sylvester (5-10, 219, Sr.); LB Gabe Cardenas (5-10, 184, Sr.); LB Trevonte’ Walker (5-8, 170, Sr.); DB Koby Starks (5-11, 167, Sr); DB D’nd Wright (5-7, 151, Sr.).

load.

H.L. Bourgeois returns seven defensive starters, including Bougere, junior defensive end Melvin Matthews, senior defensive end Daquan Sylvester, senior linebacker Gabe Cardenas, senior linebacker Trevonte’ Walker and senior cornerbacks Koby Starks and D’nd Wright.

The Braves will run a 4-3 defensive scheme under defensive coordinator See BRAVES, 66

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SOUTH LAFOURCHE HIGH SCHOOL Aug. 30: at De Le Salle

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H O U M A C H R I S T I A N S C H O O L WA R R I O R S

After stellar 2017, Warriors back with some veterans, plenty youth

By Kelly McElroy Staff Writer

In the days leading up to the 2017 high school football season, Houma Christian School football coach Chuck Battaglia was scoring the halls of the school, looking for potential players to join the Warriors so the team would have enough players to compete in the quickly approaching campaign.

Battaglia was successful in his quest, and that mix of returning and new players combined to lead the Warriors to the best start in school history at 5-0 overall and later to a first-round playoff berth.

Now the Warriors are back for 2018 after a 6-4 overall season and are looking to build on that success from last year, but Battaglia said Houma Christian will again be faced with some challenges as it heads into the season with 24 players on its roster.

“We have a few returning seniors who we are going to expect a lot of leadership from,” Battaglia said. “But the majority of our guys are freshmen and new players so it will be a season of learning for a lot of these guys.”

Battaglia said the success of last year’s team helped grow some interest in the program at the school.

“The success we had early last year drew an interest and we are starting off with more players, 24 instead of 13 like last year,” Battaglia said.

“It helped these freshmen gain some interest, but they are still going to have to learn the game.”

Senior Brandt Roger will take over at quarterback for the Warriors this season after playing behind former starter Damien Pennison, who graduated this past spring.

“Brandt hasn’t played the position a lot, but he understands the offense really well,” Battaglia said. “He is a bright kid and has done a great job of picking it up.”

Roger said the Warriors are doing what it takes to have another successful season.

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Chuck Battaglia Class 1A District 8-1A 2017 overall record: 6-4 District record: 1-3 Years as head coach: 8 Record at school: 31-39 Overall record: 31-39 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: Highland Baptist Sept. 7: Westminster Christian Sept. 14: Ascension Christian Sept. 21: at Ben Franklin Sept. 28: at East Iberville Oct. 5: West St. John* Oct. 12: BYE Oct. 19: at St. Martin’s* Oct. 26: Varnado* Nov. 1: Covenant Christian Academy* *District 8-1A game

2017 REVIEW

Three of the Houma Christian School players looking to lead the way for the Warriors this season are (from left) seniors Brandt Roger (quarterback/safety), Zachariah Trujillo (running back/linebacker) and Jeremy Bardarson (offensive/defensive lineman). [KELLY MCELROY/STAFF – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

“A lot of people have been doubting us, but we have been working hard,” Roger said. “I am really looking forward to the season and think we will have great success. We will have to just do what we do well and play smarter this season. We also have to be in great condition because we have a lot of guys playing both ways.

This team has a lot of heart and we are going to go out there and give it everything we have.”

Senior Zachariah Trujillo is back as a starting running back and starting linebacker and is expected to be another top player for the Warriors, who also lost standout wide receiver Je’Corie Ward to graduation.

“Even though we are still running a spread offense, we are going to have to slow things down and Zach will be able to help us do that at running back,” Battaglia said. “We want to

utilize him more this year.”

Trujillo said the Warriors will look to play an inspired brand of football.

“We just have to work as a team on the field and off the field,” Trujillo said. “We need to play hard. It’s not about the size of the team. It’s about the size of the hearts of the players on the team who are playing the game of football.”

Battaglia said senior lineman Jeremy Bardarson will be depended on as a leader on both sides of the line of scrimmage. The Warriors only return one other starting lineman.

“We are pretty young as a team,” Bardarson said. “We are just trying to groom these kids and get them better for the future. You never really know because anything can happen. It’s my senior year and I am excited for it.”

Another positive the Warriors have going forward is they have started a

Def. Highland Baptist, 36-25; def. Westminster Christian, 27-21; def. Ascension Christian, 41-15; def. Ben Franklin, 41-7; def. East Iberville, 24-14; lost to West St. John, 62-0; def. St. Martin’s, 40-21; lost to Varnado, 44-39; lost to Covenant Christian Academy, 35-6.

Division IV playoffs: lost to Ascension Catholic, 63-7 (first round) KEY PLAYERS QB/DB Brandt Roger (Sr.), OL/DL Jeremy Bardarson (Sr.), RB/LB Zachariah Trujillo (Sr.), WR/DB Andre Dupre (Sr.), OL/DL James Allen (Sr.), OL/DL Nick Guidry (Sr.), WR/DB Eyan Webre (Jr.), WR/DB Chad Portier (Jr.)

junior-high football program at the school in order to help feed the varsity program. Battaglia said seventhand eighth-grade players would be eligible to be pulled up to varsity this season, but that he would only do it if absolutely necessary.

“We have had a really good turnout for our junior-high program,” Battaglia said. “I don’t like putting a seventh or eighth grader on the varsity team, but if our numbers drop, or we get hit with a lot of injuries, it may be something we have to do later in the season.”

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S O U T H L A F O U R C H E TA R P O N S

Coaching stability could help push Tarpons to top

By Brent St. Germain Sports Editor

GALLIANO – There will be a pair of noticeable changes this season for the South Lafourche Tarpons.

South Lafourche will be donning new uniforms and will be playing its home games on a new artificial turf surface at Ralph Pere Field in Tarpons Memorial Stadium.

Because of those changes, there is a lot of excitement surrounding the South Lafourche football program.

“We have new uniforms and new turf at our stadium,” senior linebacker Shane Billiot said. “Both look good and they go great together. It’s going to be my senior season so I am really looking forward to getting out there.”

But the one change the Tarpons will not have to cope with this year is on the coaching staff as Blake Forsythe returns for his second season as head coach.

South Lafourche had different head coaches in 2015 and 2016 before Forsythe arrived for the 2017 season.

Senior quarterback Blake Bailleaux said having the same head coach in place for a second straight season has been beneficial.

“We knew what to expect this year for spring football and for the summer,” he said. “He knows what to expect from us and what we can expect from him. He is showing that he is sticking to his guns and doing well. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

South Lafourche will be looking to build on last season’s success after posting a 6-5 overall record and finishing as the District 7-4A runnerup. The Tarpons also returned to the Class 4A playoffs after a one-year absence.

Forsythe said last season’s success – combined with stability on the coaching staff – has sparked excitement within the program as the current roster features more than 80

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Blake Forsythe Class 4A District 7-4A 2017 overall record: 6-5 District record: 5-1 Years as head coach: 2 Record at school: 6-5 Overall record: 6-5 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 30: at De Le Salle Sept. 7: at Thibodaux Sept. 14: Central Lafourche Sept. 21: at Ellender* Sept. 28: Vandebilt Catholic* Oct. 5: at Assumption* Oct. 12: Morgan City* Oct. 19: at E.D. White Catholic* Oct. 26: South Terrebonne* Nov. 2: East St. John *District 7-4A game

2017 REVIEW

Senior running back Jake Galjour (20), senior quarterback Brock Bailleaux (16) and senior linebacker Shane Billiot (6) are all returning starters for the South Lafourche Tarpons. [BRENT ST. GERMAIN/STAFF – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

players.

“We are back on track to where we need to be,” Forsythe said. “We had great summer workouts, and the kids are starting to see the message and starting to understand where we are going and what we can do with this program.”

The Tarpons will feature an experienced squad on both sides of the ball with seven offensive starters and six defensive starters back.

Offensively, the Tarpons have players returning at key positions, including quarterback (Bailleaux), running back (Jake Galjour), wide receiver (Jelby Cheramie), tight end (Eric Thibodaux) and along the offensive line (Jhy Orgeron).

Bailleaux said he is ready for the offfense to up some big numbers in 2018 as he is entering his second

season as the Tarpon’s starting quarterback.

“The experience is really going to help out a lot this season,” he said.

“Now I have a better idea on what is going to happen and how things are supposed to go. You just have to go out there and take control.”

But the biggest shoes to fill on the roster will be at running back. South Lafourche needs to replace Corbin Allen.

Forsythe said it will be tough to replace Allen, who rushed for nearly 1,200 yards and scored 12 touchdowns in seven games last season.

South Lafourche will rely on several backs this season as it switches to a run-based flexbone offensive scheme.

“Corbin put up some big numbers, so it will take more than one person to replace him,” Forsythe said. “We will

Lost to De La Salle, 39-7; def. Thibodaux, 38-28; lost to Central Lafourche, 36-24; def. Ellender, 28-25; def. Vandebilt Catholic, 34-14; def. Assumption, 20-18; def. Morgan City, 48-8; lost to E.D. White Catholic, 28-12; def. South Terrebonne, 30-7; lost to East St. John, 40-8.

Class 4A playoffs: lost to Tioga, 31-16 (first round).

KEY PLAYERS QB Brock Bailleaux (Sr.), RB Jake Galjour (Sr.), WR Jelby Cheramie (Sr.), OL Jhy Orgeron (Jr.), DL Alex Lafont (Sr.), LB Shane Billiot (Sr.), LB Nathaniel Long (Sr.), DB Jake Pitre (Jr.)

take a running-back-by-committee approach because it will take us about three or four guys to replace the touches Corbin got in the game.”

Because of that, South Lafourche may lean on its defense throughout the season.

The Tarpons are returning players along the defensive line (Alex Lafont and Elijah Barnett), linebacker (Billiot and Nathaniel Long) and defensive back (Jake Pitre).

“Defense will be the real strength of our team,” Forsythe said. “Our linebacker corps has some good size See TARPONS, 57

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S O U T H T E R R E B O N N E G AT O R S

Gators looking to their defense to lead in 2018

By Kelly McElroy Staff Writer

BOURG — The South Terrebonne football team is looking for a bounceback 2018, and with nine returning starters back on defense, the Gators will lean on that side of the ball to help get it done.

South Terrebonne is coming off a 3-7 overall season in 2017 in which it missed the playoffs for the thirdconsecutive season.

“Probably our strong point this year is that we have those nine starters back on defense,” South Terrebonne coach Richard Curlin said. “That will really help out.”

A couple of the top returning defensive players for the Gators are expected to be senior defensive lineman Donald Dardar and sophomore defensive lineman Colby Chelette.

Curlin said while the defense looks to be a strong point, the Gators will have to replace four of five starters along their offensive line and that Dardar and Chelette will likely have to take some snaps there this season.

South Terrebonne does have a number of returning players at running back, including seniors Johnathan Smith and Terrance Sims.

Junior quarterback Trey Gautreaux is set to start after gaining some varsity experience toward the end of last season.

“He’s a good leader and a good leader in the huddle,’ Curlin said of Gautreaux. “He is cool under pressure and he gets the job done. We like what we saw from him at the end of the season last year and hopefully he continues to get better.”

The four captains on the team are Dardar, senior tight end/long snapper Cameron Hebert and junior running back/defensive back Lance Pellegrin

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Richard Curlin Class 4A District 7-4A 2017 overall record: 3-7 District record: 2-4 Years as head coach: 29 Record at school: 153-145 Overall record: 153-145 Last time in playoffs: 2014

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: at H.L. Bourgeois Sept. 7: at Terrebonne Sept. 14: Berwick Sept. 21: at Vandebilt Catholic* Sept. 28: Assumption* Oct. 4: at Morgan City* Oct. 12: E.D. White Catholic* Oct. 19: Belle Chasse Oct. 26: at South Lafourche* Nov. 2: Ellender* *District 7-4A game

2017 REVIEW

Three of the four South Terrebonne team captains for 2018 are junior defensive back David Lirette (35), senior tight end/long snapper Cameron Hebert (87) and junior running back/defensive back Lance Pellegrin (25). Not pictured is the fourth Gators team captain, senior lineman Donald Dardar. [KELLY MCELROY/STAFF – HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

and junior defensive back David Lirette.

Hebert said this year’s team has what it takes to turn things around.

“Our senior class will help us,” Hebert said. “We can step up as leaders. We don’t want to win two or three games again. We have a lot experience coming back. We know our defense is going to be good and on offense, the older guys are going to help the younger guys. I think we can make a good run. Our coaching staff pushes us and wants nothing but the best for us. It’s been a while, but we are going to come through this year.”

Lirette said he too is excited about what the Gators have retuning on

defense.

“We have a bunch of people coming back on defense,” Lirette said. “Our defense is going to be really good. We have been in the weight room all summer and we have been working hard.”

Pellegrin said the Gators are motivated to continue to build as a team once the season starts.

“We know we can always get better and better,” Pellegrin said. “We know our defense will again be a plus for us.

We have some younger guys from last year who stepped up and we can see that carrying on into this season. We want to keep that going. I think if we hold ourselves accountable, we will

Def. H.L. Bourgeois, 25-12; lost to Terrebonne, 42-2; lost to Berwick, 49-28; lost to Vandebilt Catholic, 41-21; lost to Assumption, 52-14; def. Morgan City, 34-20; lost to E.D. White Catholic, 49-26; lost to Belle Chasse, 55-14; lost to South Lafourche, 30-7; def. Ellender, 27-23 KEY PLAYERS QB Trey Gautreaux (Jr.), RB Terrence Sims (Sr.), RB Johnathan Smith (Sr.), TE/ LS Cameron Hebert (Sr.), G Austin Hebert (Jr.), FB/DL Donald Dardar (Sr.), DL Dylan Authement (Jr.), DB Peyton Parr (Jr.), DL/ RB Colby Chelette (Soph.), LB Tyler Melancon (Jr.), LB Gage Price (Sr.), DB David Lirette (Jr.), RB/DB Lance Pellegrin (Jr.)

be able to do some of the things we couldn’t do last year and make a long run in district.”

Curlin said staying healthy will be important for the Gators as they look to gain confidence in their predistrict slate that leads into District 7-4A action.

“Staying healthy will be key for us,” Curlin said. “Now if we can do that, we can have a chance to win every district game.”

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S T. J A M E S W I L D C AT S

Wildcats want to reload, not rebuild, with young roster

By Chris Singleton Staff Writer

VACHERIE – The St. James Wildcats have yet to play in a real live regular-season football game this season.

But they’ve already made history.

This year’s St. James team will be the youngest squad to ever play for Wildcats head coach Robert Valdez, who has led teams at St. James, West St. John and Scotlandville in the last 11 seasons.

St. James (9-4 overall record with a trip to the Class 3A quarterfinals last season) lost an experienced senior class last season to graduation, including most of its defensive leaders. Many of those players are now playing college football, including Mississippi State University incoming freshman defensive back Shawn Preston Jr., Prairie View A&M incoming freshman defensive lineman Jason Dumas and Southern University incoming defensive back Glenn Brown III. So for Valdez, who has a 90-44 overall record as a head coach, said he looks forward to watching how several of his young players step up to play in key starter roles this season.

“This one is exciting. This is my youngest group ever. I’m kind of excited to see how this is going to work out with us,” Valdez said. “For a lot of guys, it’s their turn. They’ve been waiting on the opportunity.

We’ve got some playmakers, but we have some huge holes we have to fill.

It’s always fun because now we get a chance to see what these guys can do when it gets to be their turn.”

Despite their youth, senior running back Dontaz Sterling said he believes the Wildcats are talented enough to make a run for a state championship in Class 3A this season. St. James hasn’t won a state title since 1979.

“We’re trying to go 10-0, get to the Dome and win a ring. We’re very

capable of winning a state championship,” Sterling said. “A lot of people are underestimating us because we’re small, but size doesn’t mean anything in a fight. We’ve worked hard all offseason long and at practice. We haven’t had one week off. We just have to play together and be a team.

One young player who is used to stepping up to lead the Wildcats is junior athlete Shamar “Smooth” Smith, who spent time as a starting quarterback as a sophomore last year.

Smith was the starting quarterback when former senior player Demarcus Williams went down with various injuries last season. Smith made plays as a quarterback, wide receiver and punt returner this year, and he finished as a second-team All-District 10-3A selection at quarterback.

Smith said the young Wildcats are ready to show everyone that age is just a number.

“I’m very excited because a lot of people doubt us and we’re going to show them in the season,” Smith said.

“People thought we lost everybody, but we are reloading not rebuilding.”

Joining Smith in the offensive backfield will be Sterling and junior running back Sean Lebeouf.

Although they will be young at receiver, Valdez said he is confident that the trio of Smith, Sterling and Lebouef will guide their spread offense this season.

“Shamar is Shamar. He’s going to be a playmaker at whatever position you put him at,” Valdez said. “Dontaz is the ball carrier at tailback. We have a good 1-2 punch with him and Sean Lebeouf at the tail back. Those guys are going to be required to do a lot.”

The Wildcats will count on new leaders in junior linebacker Lamon Lewis, junior defensive lineman DeAndre Keller, sophomore defensive lineman Savion Jones and senior defensive back/receiver Tai’Rhys Smith to lead the multiple defensive attack.

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Robert Valdez Class 3A District 10-3A 2017 overall record: 9-4 District record: 3-2 Years as head coach: 3 Record at school: 17-7 Overall record: 90-44 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE

St. James will count on players such as junior defensive lineman DeAndre’ Keller (45), junior quarterback Shamar Smith (3), senior running back Dontaz Sterling (15), senior defensive back/receiver Tai’Rhys Smith (9), junior linebacker Lamon Lewis and sophomore tight end/ defensive lineman Savion Jones to lead the team this season. [CHRIS SINGLETON/ STAFF -- HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

Valdez said the defense is young with many new starters, but he knows they will get better with more experience.

“Right now can we just play solid defense and just fly to the ball and try as best we can to control the line of scrimmage,” Valdez said. “We have speed but then again we have to be able to limit the running game.”

Lewis, who started as a sophomore linebacker, said the young Wildcats defense is ready to earn their stripes.

“I believe in this team. We’re going to shake back on defense,” Lewis said. “You can expect a lot from our defense this year. We want to be physical, aggressive and have everybody flying to the ball. It’s not just one person.”

St. James will also rely on freshman kicker Alec Mahler, who made several key field goals as an eighth grader last year.

Valdez said St. James’ young squad will have to grow up fast as they will face another difficult schedule this season, which includes tough nondistrict games against West St.

Aug. 31: West St. John Sept. 7: at Lutcher Sept. 14: at E.D. White Catholic Sept. 21: Wossman Sept. 28: at St. Amant Oct. 5: Donaldsonville* Oct. 11: at Hayes Academy* Oct. 19: at De La Salle* Oct. 26: Lusher Charter* Nov. 2: St. Charles Catholic* *District 10-3A game

2017 REVIEW Def. West St. John, 36-33; def. Lutcher, 13-7; def. E.D. White Catholic, 27-21; def.

Wossman, 19-0; lost to St. Amant, 41-27; def. Donaldsonville, 26-22; def. Haynes Academy, 54-0; lost to De La Salle, 63-7; def. Lusher Charter, 24-6; lost to St. Charles Catholic, 14-0.

Class 3A playoffs: def. Marksville, 39-0 (first round); def. Madison Prep, 50-0 (second round); lost to Kaplan, 39-22 (quarterfinals).

KEY PLAYERS QB/WR Shamar Smith (5-11, 180, Jr.); RB/ SS Sean LeBeouf (5-8, 165, Jr.), LB Lamon Lewis (6-0, 200, Jr.); TE/DE Chase Geason (6-4, 220, Jr.); RB Dontaz Sterling (5-8, 190, Sr.); DB/WR Tai'Rhys Smith (5-7. 160, Sr.); TE/DL Savion Jones (6-4, 186, Soph.); DL/TE DeAndre' Keller (6-3, 220, Jr.); K Alec Mahler (Fresh.).

John, Lutcher, E.D. White Catholic and Wossman before jumping into District 10-3A play against opponents such as De La Salle, St. Charles Catholic and Donaldsonville.

“Nobody is going to make it easy for you. It’s going to be hard right off the bat,” Valdez said. “Every Friday night for us is going to be big time. We have to strap it up and go play. One thing I know about my kids is that they are going to compete and fight hard.”

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TERREBONNE TIGERS

Terrebonne has eyes set on deep playoff run

By Chris Singleton Staff Writer

These days are different for the football players at Terrebonne High School.

For many years, the Tigers weren’t picked to win the District 7-5A title or make a deep playoff run in Class 5A. But this season there is a new level of excitement surrounding Terrebonne’s football team.

With most of their starters from last year’s 7-4 team returning this season, the Tigers are considered preseason favorites to compete for a district title and perhaps have a chance to make it to the MercedesBenz Superdome in New Orleans to play for a state championship for the first time since 1983.

After years of being overlooked, the Tigers are enjoying all of the attention they have received heading into the season.

“We have to live up to the hype.

Normally we’ll be the underdogs in this situation,” senior linebacker Cullen Butler said. “Now everybody knows about us. We just have to go and show what we can do. We’re not just going to live up to the hype.

We’re going to do more than what the hype expects us to do.”

Junior athlete Ja’Khi Douglas, who has emerged as one of the state’s top junior recruits with offers from Alabama, LSU and other major colleges, said Terrebonne has major expectations for the season.

“We can go far, but we just have to take each game one at a time,” Douglas said. “I think we can go to the Dome this year. That’s our goal.”

Terrebonne coach Gary Hill, who is entering his 12th season as the Tigers coach, said this year’s team is one of his most talented squads.

“It’s been 12 years here, and I can’t remember having the skill guys that we have on offense and defense across

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Gary Hill Class 5A District 7-5A 2017 overall record: 7-4 District record: 3-3 Years as head coach: 12 Record at school: 58-56 Overall record: 58-56 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: at Ellender Sept. 7: South Terrebonne Sept. 14: at Assumption Sept. 21: Patterson Sept. 28: Hahnville* Oct. 5: at Thibodaux* Oct. 12: at East St. John* Oct. 19: Central Lafourche* Oct. 26: H.L. Bourgeois* Nov. 2: at Destrehan* *District 7-5A game

2017 REVIEW

Key leaders for Terrebonne this season will be (from left) senior receiver Tre Johnson, senior linebacker Cullen Butler, junior athlete Ja’Khi Douglas, senior running back Keshawn James, senior linebacker William Robinson, senior running back Chaz Ward and senior defensvie back Anthony “TJ” Ruffin. [CHRIS SINGLETON/STAFF -- HOUMATODAY/ DAILYCOMET]

the board,” Hill said. “They do a great job of sticking together. If they can continue getting better, there is no telling where we can end up. We just got to keep that attitude and mentality. We just have to go out and play as hard as we can.”

Terrebonne’s loaded roster starts with its explosive offensive unit, which averaged more than 35 points per game last year.

Douglas, who plays a variety of roles such as quarterback, receiver and defensive back, returns to lead the Tigers offense. He will be joined by senior running backs KeShawn James and Chaz Ward, and a trio of steady receivers in seniors Tre Johnson and juniors Randall Hartman and D’Jon Scott.

Hill said having explosive skill players and experience on the offensive line will be key this season.

“The depth on the offensive side of the ball is a blessing for us,” Hill said.

“They just go out and play football.

They all love the game. That’s fun to coach.”

James, who finished with 1,247 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns last year to go with 33 catches for 322 yards and four receiving touchdowns, said it is fun to play in an offense with so many weapons.

“You can’t just key on one of us,” said James, who will miss at least the first week of the season with a foot injury. “We’re very confident. We learned a lot from last year. We’ve learned from our mistakes. We’re a different team now. Just be ready to look out for us.”

The Tigers also return a very strong defensive unit led by an experienced linebacker core of Butler, Dillion Babin and Colby Clement. Returning

Def. Ellender, 38-12; def. South Terrebonne, 42-2; def. Assumption, 38-33; def.

Patterson, 60-27; lost to Hahnville, 52-35; def. Thibodaux, 48-0; lost to East St. John, 36-28; def. Central Lafourche, 34-28; def.

H.L. Bourgeois, 40-7; lost to Destrehan, 28-7. Class 5A playoffs: lost to Ouachita, 35-17 (first round).

KEY PLAYERS QB/WR/DB Ja’khi Douglas (5-9, 185, Jr.); HB KeShawn James (5-8, 170, Sr.); RB Chaz Ward (6-1,215, Sr.); WR Tre Johnson (6-3, 200, Sr.); LG Johnny Carter (6-0, 260, Sr.); C Austin Atchley (6-0, 260, Sr.); DT Maason Smith (6-4, 285, Soph.); DT Will Robinson (5-11, 225, Sr.); LB Dillion Babin (6-0, 185, Sr.); LB Cullen Butler (6-0, 185, Sr.); CB Jakobe Carter (5-10, 185, Jr.) CB Kwan Allen (5-9, 180, Jr.); S Anthony "TJ" Ruffin (6-1, 195, Sr.).

senior William Robinson and rising sophomore Maason Smith will anchor the defensive line, while a talented group of defensive backs in junior corners Kwan Allen and JaKobe Carter and senior safety Anthony “TJ” Ruffin will lead the attack.

Hill said Terrebonne’s defense has a See TERREBONNE, 57

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T H I B O DAUX T I G E R S

Thibodaux will feature young but experienced roster

By Chris Singleton Staff Writer

A quick look at the 2018 Thibodaux Tigers football team roster will show a small amount of senior players but a large number of juniors and sophomores.

The Tigers will only have 11 seniors this year, but they will feature many juniors and sophomores who have varsity playing experience.

Thibodaux head coach Chris Dugas said the Tigers (4-7 overall last season with a trip to the Class 5A first-round playoffs) will count on many of those younger players this season.

“Some of those guys with a junior or a sophomore behind their name actually have some game-time experience,” Dugas said. “They have been in some battles, not as starters, but some of those guys did play as special teams and played some key roles towards the end of the year. They are going to have to get more experience on the fly, but we like what we have.

The guys have been working really hard this summer.”

Thibodaux will return three defensive starters from last year in junior linebackers Hunter Trosclair and Khalil Brisco and junior cornerback Joshua Holden. The only returning offensive starter will be left offensive guard Kobe Berger.

Trosclair, who made second-team All-District 7-5A as a linebacker, said the Tigers are young but ready to step up and play.

“I feel like this year we’re going to be a very organized team,” said Trosclair, who is entering his third year as a starter. “We’re young, but we have a lot of potential to go far in the playoffs.”

One of Thibodaux’s key players this season will be junior Tyren Young, who is projected as a quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back.

Young will split the starting quarterback role with sophomore Luke Alleman, and he will line up as a receiver and free safety on defense in

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Chris Dugas Class 5A District 7-5A 2017 overall record: 4-7 District record: 3-3 Years as head coach: 8 Record at school: 38-38 Overall record: 38-38 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: at Vandebilt Catholic Sept. 7: South Lafourche Sept. 14: East Ascension Sept. 21: H.L. Bourgeois* Sept. 28: at Destrehan* Oct. 5: Terrebonne* Oct. 12: at Hahnville* Oct. 19: at St. Augustine Oct. 26: at East St. John* Nov. 2: Central Lafourche* *District 7-5A game

2017 REVIEW Key players for the Thibodaux Tigers this season will be (from left) junior receiver Kyren Lacy, junior linebacker Hunter Trosclair, junior quarterback/receiver/defensive back Tyren Young, junior linebacker Khalil Brisco and sophomore running back Ferronte Miller.

[CHRIS SINGLETON/STAFF -- HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

certain packages.

The Tigers offense, which will operate out of the spread scheme, will feature a hard young sophomore runner in Ferronte Miller, who has impressed his coaches this offseason. The Tigers will also get a big pass catching target in 6-foot-3 junior receiver Kyren Lacy, who is a basketball standout playing football for the first time.

Young said Thibodaux has the pieces in place to contend for a District 7-5A championship and playoff berth this season.

“I feel like we can go very far,” Young said. “We have a lot of young players. Last year our young players were playing in big roles and now we’re looking to improve. I feel like we’ve gained a lot of experience since then.

We’re the underdogs. We have a lot of doubters. There are people who don't expect us to do well, but we believe in each other as a team. We come out every day at practice and we perform.

We’re going to show everybody.”

Defensively, Thibodaux will switch from a 4-2-5 defense last year to a 3-3

stack scheme this year.

The Tigers defense will be led by their core linebackers in Trosclair, Brisco and sophomore Rolaun Richard. In the secondary, junior strong safety Rimond Thompson and Holden will lead the way.

“We have to be very physical and smart this year as a defense,” Brisco said. “We have to make a lot of tackles. We’re young, but we’re ready for the challenge to step up.”

Dugas said the 4-7 record last year was below the standard they have set as a program. The Tigers have made the postseason in five straight years, but they haven’t won a playoff game since 2014.

Thibodaux started the season with a 1-6 record last year, but it managed to win its last three games of the regular season to clinch a playoff berth.

As the No. 31-seed, Thibodaux battled hard against No. 2 Covington, but fell 35-21.

With many of his younger players getting playing time in the playoffs last year, Dugas said he hopes the

Lost to Vandebilt Catholic, 31-28; lost to South Lafourche, 38-28; lost to East Ascension, 17-13; def. H.L. Bourgeois, 40-6; lost to Destrehan, 24-6; lost to Terrebonne, 48-0; lost to Hahnville, 41-13; def. West St. Mary, 42-0; def. East St. John, 28-18; def. Central Lafourche, 23-16.

Class 5A playoffs: lost to Covington, 35-21 (first round).

KEY PLAYERS QB/WR/DB Tyren Young (5-10, 170, Jr.); RB Ferronte Miller (5-8, 170, Soph.); WR Kyren Lacy (6-3, 200, Jr.); LG Kobe Berger (6-1, 275, Jr.); DL Jmari Robertson (6-2, 300, Jr.); LB Hunter Trosclair (5-9, 190, Jr.); LB Khalil Brisco (5-9, 200, Jr.); LB Rolaun Richard (6-0, 185, Soph.); SS Rimond Thompson (5-10, 185, Jr.); CB Josh Holden (5-10, 165, Jr.).

Tigers will be prepared to handle the test that awaits them this season.

“We want to pick up where we left off last year. Hopefully that can springboard us into this year,” Dugas said. “Maybe we can sneak up on some people. We got a pretty tough schedule. There are no off weeks on our schedule. District 7-5A is always tough. There is no time to breathe.

We got to be ready to go, and we have to grow up early.”

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VA N D E B I LT C AT H O L I C T E R R I E R S

Terriers hoping senior leadership, depth lead to success

By Chris Singleton Staff Writer

The Vandebilt Catholic Terriers have enjoyed success on the football field by winning 15 games in the last two seasons.

But they’ve struggled to win playoff games during that span.

With an experienced squad coming back this season, Vandebilt coach Jeremy Atwell said the Terriers want to take it another step by winning some playoff games this year. They lost to Archbishop Hannan, 35-20, in the first round of the Division II state playoffs last year.

"We’ve got to win a playoff game.

We want to take care of our regular season and district first," Atwell said.

"We want to handle our business on the football schedule and hope we get a bye. It’s time we start talking about winning playoff games. We’re trending upwards but they last time we won a playoff game was with a 4-6 football team in 2015. It’s time to start talking about those things."

Atwell said he is confident that the Terriers (7-4 record last year) have the right pieces in place to grow as a program this season thanks to a group of 22 seniors returning. They also have many underclassmen who have seen playing time on special teams and in backup roles this season.

"I’m hoping two things they can get from us is great attitude and great effort," Atwell said. "I really feel good about this football team. We have a great group of seniors coming back.

We have some experience in our younger classes, so there is excitement in the air right now on this campus about this football team. I see us growing as a team."

After a successful fall camp this year, the Terriers believe they can make some noise in the District 7-4A and Division II playoffs this season.

"We want to go to the Dome," senior athlete Brennan Patterson said.

"We got to take it a week at a time.

We can’t rush anything. We’re very

confident."

Patterson, who missed most of his junior season with a foot injury, will be one of Vandebilt’s key returning players on offense as a receiver, defense as a defensive back and special teams as a kick returner. He is also expected to line up at quarterback on some snaps for the Terriers.

"It was a hard time for me missing games last year, but it feels good to be back," Patterson said. "Everything happens for a reason. You never know why but it does."

Atwell said he is happy to have Patterson’s services back this season.

"He’s one of our best playmakers so it is important to get the ball in his hands as much as possible," Atwell said. "He makes plays for us defensively, but he was electrifying in the kicking game with some huge returns last year before the injury."

Another weapon the Terriers get back on offense is senior running back Drew Rios, who missed his junior year with a knee injury. He will be the Terriers’ feature running back, replacing departed seniors in Brennan Rogers and Michael Lecompte.

"I’m 100 percent. I came back and I’m better than ever," Rios said. "It’s been hard, but I hung in there. I never gave up. Anything can happen to anybody on any play. You have to play your hardest. You don’t know when it will be your last."

Atwell will take over as offensive coordinator this season. The Terriers lost one of the state’s top senior quarterbacks Andrew Robison when he transferred to Hahnville High School this summer, but Atwell said he believes the Terriers still have potential to field an explosive offense this fall.

Atwell said Vandebilt will look to run the ball more this year, especially with all of its offensive lineman returning, including senior William Wade.

"Regardless of what happened, we were going to make some changes to the offense," Atwell said. "We wanted

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Jeremy Atwell Class 4A District 7-4A 2017 overall record: 7-4 District record: 3-3 Years as head coach: 5 Record at school: 24-21 Overall record: 24-21 Last time in playoffs: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE

Vandebilt Catholic will count on senior offensive lineman William Wade (63), junior linebacker Chandler Rhodes (1), senior defensive back/receiver Brennan Patterson (2), junior receiver Ja’Corey Wells (9) and senior running back Drew Rios (5) to lead the team this season.

[CHRIS SINGLETON/STAFF -- HOUMATODAY/

Aug. 31: Thibodaux Sept. 7: H.L. Bourgeois Sept. 15: at Archbishop Shaw Sept. 21: South Terrebonne* Sept. 28: at South Lafourche* Oct. 4: at Ellender* Oct. 12: Central Catholic Oct. 19: at Assumption* Oct. 26: Morgan City* Nov. 2: at E.D. White Catholic* *District 7-4A game

2017 REVIEW

DAILYCOMET]

to get Brennan (Patterson) in the backfield at little more at quarterback with his athleticism. We’re getting Rios back. We wanted to lean more on the run game. We felt there was times we needed to run the ball more to put games away. We didn’t have that ability."

The Terriers also have a steady group of receivers returning in senior Cruz Theriot and Ja’Corey Wells.

"We’re looking to make plays on offense and put points on the board," Wells said. "We’ve put in a lot of work during the summer. We just needed a lot of leadership this year to make our team better. We just want to execute every day and get better week by week and play by play. If we come together as a unit, then we’ll be fine."

Vandebilt will have a new defensive coordinator in Taylor James, who spent time as an assistant football coach at Northwestern State University last year. He will replace former Vandebilt defensive coordinator in Mike Walker, who is now the head coach at Berwick.

Atwell said the Terriers have adjusted to the change in defensive scheme this year.

"It’s been a great transition," Atwell

Def. Thibodaux, 31-28; def. H.L. Bourgeois, 62-10; def. Archbishop Shaw, 35-0; def. South Terrebonne, 41-21; lost to South Lafourche, 34-14; def. Ellender, 41-35; def. Central Catholic, 45-16; lost to Assumption, 49-20; def. Morgan City, 51-13; lost to E.D. White, 45-21.

Division II playoffs: lost to Archbishop Hannan, 35-20 (first round) KEY PLAYERS WR/CB/KR Brennan Patterson (6-0, 180, Sr.); WR Cruz Theriot (6-0, 180, Sr.); RB Drew Rios (6-0, 195, Sr.); WR Ja’Corey Wells (6-1, 160, Jr.); DB CJ Detillier (5-11, 147, Sr.); LB Chandler Rhodes (5-8, 170, Jr.); OL William Wade (6-5, 302, Sr.); K/P Reid Bourg (5-10, 175, Sr.).

said. "Our guys are running around and flying to the ball with a tempo.

Usually that happens when you get a new coach in. You get the best of them because they want to impress and want to be seen. It’s exciting to see the guys grasp his style."

One of the key defenders returning is junior linebacker Chandler Rhodes, who led the team with over 100 tackles last year. John Trapp will also return as a key defensive lineman, and senior CJ Detillier will be a playmaker as a defensive back.

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RECRUITING

Area recruits getting attention of college coaches

By Chris Singleton

McNeese State and Southeastern Louisiana) and sophomore defensive lineman Maason Smith (Louisiana-Lafayette and Southern Maason Smith Miss). Smith is a 6-4, 285-pound prospect who caught the eyes of college coaches at summer camps.

Senior linebacker Cullen Butler and junior defensive backs Kwan Allen and JaKobe Carter are receiving interest from state schools.

“There is a lot of interest for them,” Hill said. “They just need to go out and finish proving who they are and do the best they can. They do a great job of trying to keep their grades up and ACT scores or on the rise. They are doing a great job of presenting themselves. When they go to camps they are performing well.”

Staff Writer

The Bayou Region has established itself as one of the state’s prime breeding grounds for college football recruits.

Entering the upcoming high school football season, many local football players have received offers or interest from college teams.

One of the area’s top senior recruits in E.D. White Catholic senior athlete Brandon Legendre has already announced his verbal commitment to Louisiana-Lafayette.

Terrebonne High School junior athlete Ja’Khi Douglas has emerged as one of the state’s top prospects for the 2020 recruiting class. He has recorded offers from LSU, Alabama and many other major college programs.

Many more local athletes are expected to receive college offers and announce their commitments as the season goes on.

Here is a rundown of all local high schools that have players getting college offers and interest from colleges.

CLASS 5A H.L. BOURGEOIS

Braves coach Ryan Fournier said senior defensive lineman Le’Kelan Bougere (6-foot-1, 251 pounds) has an offer from Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Fournier said he expects more colleges to show interest as his senior season goes on.

“I think he’s going to explode,” Fournier said. “He’s had a tremendous summer. He’s gone from being built like a boy to being built like a grown man very quickly. I think he’s going to have a big time senior year, and I wouldn’t be surprised if you start seeing Nicholls and Southeastern start jumping on him.”

Fournier said senior linebacker Trevonte’ Walker (5-8, 170) has an offer from Cornell College, and senior defensive backs D’nd Wright (5-7, 151) and Koby Starks (5-11, 167) are getting interest.

THIBODAUX

Thibodaux coach Chris Dugas said there are no players with offers at

E.D. White Catholic senior Brandon Legendre (3) committed to Louisiana-Lafayette in June. [FILE — HOUMATODAY/DAILYCOMET]

the moment, but he mentioned that junior receiver Kyren Lacy (6-3, 200) has caught the attention of several colleges at team camps, including Nicholls State University and Louisiana-Lafayette.

TERREBONNE

The Tigers have many players with offers or interest before the season.

Douglas (5-10, 185) leads the way with 19 offers, including Ja’Khi Douglas Alabama, LSU, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana Tech, TCU, LouisianaLafayette, Missouri, Nicholls, Washington State, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Tennessee, SMU, Houston, Toledo, Mississippi State, Southern Miss, Tulane and Memphis.

Douglas plays as a quarterback and defensive back for Terrebonne, but

he is projected to play as a receiver in college. He still has two years of high school ball left, and he said all of his options are open.

“I’ve put in so much work on and off the field, and in the weight room and classroom, doing whatever I had to do to prepare for this,” Douglas said.

Terrebonne coach Gary Hill said other players with offers include senior running back KeShawn James (Nicholls, Arkansas-Pine Bluff), senior receiver KeShawn James Treveon Johnson (Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Louisiana College), senior linebacker Colby Clement (Louisiana College), senior defensive back Anthony “TJ” Ruffin (Arkansas-Pine Bluff offer with interest from Nicholls,

CLASS 4A ASSUMPTION

Senior defensive back Shawn Hall Jr. committed to Nicholls in July, picking the Colonels over Grambling State and ArkansasPine Bluff. He Shawn Hall also had interest Southeastern Louisiana, Louisiana-Lafayette and Southern University of Baton Rouge.

Hall said he couldn’t turn down an offer to join a rising Nicholls program.

The Colonels went 8-4 and hosted a first-round Football Championship Subdivision playoff game last year.

“They’ve changed the program around a lot since being a 0-12 team a few years ago to hosting a first-round playoff game last year,” Hall said.

“I’m excited to come into a winning environment. It’s not too far from home. My family can come watch me See RECRUITS, 60

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NICHOLL S COLONEL S

NICHOLLS From Page 4

Kliebert also said Rebowe’s ability to keep talented players close to home and not let them get away to other SLC schools like McNeese State, Northwestern State or Southeastern Louisiana has been a major reason Rebowe has been able to turn the Colonels back into a winner.

“The hire made a bunch of us former players really happy because for the first time in a while we had a local guy who we felt could tap into the local resources and focus on recruiting quality scholar athletes from the area,” Kliebert said.

“It means Nicholls is winning the recruiting battle in Louisiana while focusing on your local area. Coach Rebowe understands the relationship-building part of football. That is the foundation.”

Rebowe, who signed a four-year deal with Nicholls in February, said it’s a great time to be a Colonel.

“The excitement is building,” Rebowe said. “There is a buzz in the air. Everybody wants to talk ball.

It’s a good time for our players.”

Rebowe said his life is a bit busier now as compared to when he first took over as head coach, but he manages to do all he can to promote the program.

“I try and balance it the best I can because coaching this team does come first,” Rebowe said. “But I try and make as many engagements as I can because people want to know about this team and want you around to talk football. That really is a positive thing. It’s exciting that they want to talk Nicholls Colonels football.”

Nicholls athletic director Matt Roan said season-ticket sales are going strong again this season after the program was near the top of the SLC in attendance in 2017 and there is indeed a profound excitement around the program.

“I would say we are experiencing an unprecedented renewal rate for season tickets and we have a lot of new accounts coming on board,” Roan said. “Sponsorships,

donations, parking, all those things are trending in the right direction.

This is probably the high-water mark in the history of the program because people believe in our coach, our staff and the studentathletes that take the field. It goes even higher than that. (Nicholls president) Dr. Jay Clune and our administration have been so supportive. There seems to be a synergy and everything is clicking at the right time and all together.”

Here is what others are saying about the upcoming 2018 Nicholls football season and the program’s resurgence:

enrollment. I think football and sports are sort of your front porch.

Students from the region know about us and are coming here.

We have great student-athletes and great coaches. I think the thing I am most proud of is how our student-athletes give back to their community and how they are wonderful to be around. They are humble and hard working and I think they are reflection of our coaches. If you want to see some exciting football and experience Division I tailgating you can come here to do it. It’s just a great environment to see college football.”

Third-year Nicholls culinary student Devonté Burse

Nicholls senior wide receiver Damion Jeanpiere Jr.

“I’m excited for this upcoming football season,” Burse said.

“During the time I have been at Nicholls, our Colonels have had some great seasons. Nicholls football has been doing and very good job and have constantly been improving themselves. The spirit at these games is unlike anything I have ever witnessed. Colonel Pride is going to be at its peak this season.

Our guys are passionate, they work hard and play hard. I believe they are bound to have another great season.

I can’t wait.”

“It’s a blessing,” Jeanpiere said.

“You have to thank God for it every day. We are playing with confidence, and we feel like we are going to be a threat. We know we can’t disappoint.”

Nicholls senior defensive end Kenny Dotson “It’s getting more and more exciting every year, and we are looking forward to the season,” Dotson said.

“We play every game like it is our last and we have fun every game. It’s great to play with these guys.”

Nicholls president Dr. Jay Clune “There is so much excitement right now,” Clune said. “The crowds are expected to be big. The requests for tickets are up and the requests to travel with the team are up. People are enthusiastic about athletics and here it’s about football and people are willing to donate their time and resources. I think you see the impact in terms of support, donations and student

Nicholls marketing and communications specialist/ university photographer Misty Leigh McElroy “This football season has me so pumped,” McElroy said. “The sense of Colonel Pride and community pride I have seen here over the last few years has me really excited for another football season in Colonel Country. We have a true family atmosphere here at Nicholls. It doesn’t get much better than the feeling of walking on campus and seeing so many smiling faces and people coming together to root for this team. I hope they have an amazing season.”

Nicholls senior defensive back Ahmani Martin “I came in when Coach Rebowe came in (2015),” Martin said. “And I have been able to be a part of it, but I have also been able to see how the culture has changed. Being a part of something like this is something big.

We are trying to get the Southland (championship). We feel like it’s our year.”

EXPERIENCE From Page 6

to become more consistent with my decisions and my reads. I want this offense to gel. It’s up to me and Ryan (Hanley) to run this offense and I feel like when we gel, the offense comes together. We are doing a great job and will continue to get better each and every day.”

The Colonels are flush with returning talent on the offensive line.

Hanley, left tackle Eddie Houston, right guard P.J. Burkhalter and right tackle Chandler Arceneaux (a preseason FCS All-American) are listed as returning starters, but senior Demetrius Gleaton (6-foot-3, 295) played numerous meaningful snaps on the offensive line last season as well.

“We have the whole line retuning and that hasn’t happened since I have been here,” Hanley said. “It’s a big deal. You can do more with the experience we have coming back.”

The Colonels also return three of their top four receivers from last year in Damion Jeanpiere Jr. (40 catches, 770 yards, four touchdowns), Dai’Jean Dixon (23 catches, 489 yards, five touchdowns) and slot receiver Mason Roberts (15 catches, 267 yards, two touchdowns).

Christian Booker is also back after catching 13 passes for 124 yards and a score last season. The Colonels also added Louisiana-Lafayette transfer Gabe Fusiler, a senior slot receiver who caught 75 balls for 705 in three seasons with the Cajuns and also have a batch of younger receivers on the roster.

“We are talented all the way around, and we have a lot of depth too,” Jeanpiere said. “We have guys on the outside and guys in the slot.

We are pretty deep at receiver. We feel like anybody can make a play at anytime.”

Nicholls was ravished by injury at the running back spot last year but has five running backs that carried the ball for the team at least 30 times last season returning.

They include Kyran Irvin (764 yards, eight touchdowns), Dontrell

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Taylor (464 yards, four touchdowns), Tahj Smith (339 yards, three touchdowns) and Jeremy Rounds (175 yards, two touchdowns).

The Colonels also added transfer running back Kendall Bussey, who rushed for 237 yards on 46 carries for the Aggies last season.

Running back Mason Boudreaux also returns for the Colonels following an injury in 2017.

“We just keep each other motivate and focused,” Irvin said of the running backs. “We have all kinds of different kinds or running backs.

We just try to do what we can and play our role in the offense. We know anybody can go down at anytime and that is why no one is limited to a certain role. We know it is important for everybody to do their part.”

The lone senior tight end on the roster is former LSU player Bry’Kiethon Mouton, who played fullback for the Tigers and the juniors joining him at tight end are Jordan Talley, Garret LeBlanc and Morell Bartholomew.

Fourcade said everyone on offense is doing their part to make the unit as potent as possible.

“The neat thing with this offense is everyone is doing their job,” Fourcade said. “Everyone is spending a lot of time in the film room and guys are getting those mental reps in as well. We have depth at every position on offense.”

Rebowe said if the Colonels can fine tune a few things before the season opener, that Nicholls should have no problem scoring points this season.

“You always want to be efficient on offense,” Rebowe said. “You want to be able to convert on third down, but a point of emphasis in camp for us has been turnovers. We have to eliminate turnovers and we cannot hurt ourselves with penalties. If we can improve in those areas with the experienced guys we have returning, our offense should be fine.”

DEFENSE The Colonels were third in the SLC in scoring defense at 25.2 points per game last season and third in yards per game allowed at 352.2, but Rebowe said the group is ready to improve in 2018.

“Our defense knows last year didn’t

end like they wanted, and they are trying to come together,” Rebowe said.

“They know we have to create more depth at positions. We have a few guys who didn’t play that much for us last year who will have to play an important role for us at some point this season.”

Kenny Dotson (6.5 sacks last season) is one of the leaders of the defensive line that includes returning contributors like Sully Laiche, who battled an injury early in camp, Tyler “Tank” Johnson, Devin Simoneaux, Brandon Fontenot, Devin Edinburgh and Ronald Ollie, who was featured on the Netflix documentary Last Chance U and last played for the Colonels in 2016.

“We are going to do our thing on the D-line,” Dotson said. “We are going to be even better than we were.

We have experience on top of experience on our whole defense.”

At linebacker, the Colonels return experienced players in Allen Pittman (78 tackles last season), Hezekiah White (54 tackles), Evan Veron (54 tackles), Laryon Jones (22 tackles), Aquindas Steib (16 tackles) and Adrian Richardson (13 tackles). Mikey Corcoran also contributed for the Colonels last season,

Thursday, August 23, 2018 53

and they also added junior-college transfer Korey Louis from Southwest Mississippi Community College.

“We have good, older, physical guys with high motors, who can make a lot of plays,” White said. “We also have some young guys who are very athletic and who are still learning. We know they are going to make a lot of plays and contribute.”

The Colonels also return an experienced defensive backfield led by Corey Abraham (79 tackles last season), Ahmani Martin (61 tackles), Darryl Adams Jr. (36 tackles, five pass breakups), Darren Evans (five pass breakups), Austin Dickerson (two interceptions), Tyler Green, Joel Dullary, Jonavon Lewis, Kevin Johnson and Khristian Mims.

“We have been working hard and we aren’t thinking about the accolades,” Martin said. “We are just trying to come out and get better every day and put all the positives in the bank so when the season comes we can make our withdrawals.”

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54 Thursday, August 23, 2018

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SOUTHLAND CONFERENCE

Bearkats favored to win Southland Conference title

By Brent St. Germain

Abilene Christian Wildcats

Houston Baptist Huskies

Lamar Cardinals

Head coach: Adam Dorrel 2017 record: 2-9 overall, 2-7 in SLC (eighth) Predicted finish in 2017: Seventh (89 points) Key players: Offense – QB Luke Anthony, RB Tracy James; Defense – DB Bolo Onifade, DL Dante Hibbert What Dorrel is saying: “The most exciting thing for me about our program right now is our culture. I believe we’ve turned the corner there. We haven’t had any issues on our team since January and that’s a testament to the leadership we have and the work they’re putting in on the field, in the classroom and in the locker room.”

Notes: The Wildcats had the top pass defense in the Southland Conference last season giving up 106.7 yards per game …

Abilene Christian only plays two games outside the state of Texas – Oct. 6 at McNeese State and Oct. 20 at Southeastern Louisiana … Abilene Christian opens the 2018 season on Sept. 1 at Baylor.

Head coach: Vic Shealy 2017 record: 1-10 overall, 0-9 in SLC (11th) Predicted finish in 2017: 11th (32 points) Key players: Offense – QB Bailey Zappe, WR David Racine; Defense – DE Andre Walker, DB Raphael Lewis What Shealy is saying: “I expect us to have a really explosive offense. I expect us to fill up a lot of highlight reels. I think we will be fun to watch. When a lot of folks watch on TV, stream on the internet or watch us live in the stands, I think will people will come and cheer because they care about HBU, but I think they’re going to come and say ‘Now, that was fun’ when watching us play offensively.”

Notes: Zappe passed for 1,548 yards and five touchdowns as a freshman last season … Houston Baptist ended the 2017 season on a nine-game losing streak and has dropped 10 straight conference games, dating back to the 2016 season …

Houston Baptist opens the 2018 season on Sept. 1 with a home game against Southwest Baptist.

Head coach: Mike Schultz 2017 record: 2-9 overall, 1-8 in SLC (10th) Predicted finish in 2017: 10th (52 points) Key players: Offense – RB Myles Wanza, OL Garrett Bowery; Defense – DE Daniel Crosley, LB Chaston Brooks What Shultz is saying: "The start of a new season always brings a certain level of excitement. We had a very young team last season, and there is a lot of focus centered around our young guys.

We started last year with 57 brand new players, and this year we return 49 letter winners and 20 starters."

Notes: Wide receiver Zae Giles was an effective kick returner for Lamar last season after he averaged 19.0 yards per return … Last season’s leading rusher Kendrick King has been moved to wide receiver … Lamar opens the 2018 season on Sept. 1 with a home game against Kentucky Christian.

Sports Editor

It appears the Southland Conference will once again be chasing one team throughout the 2017 season – the Sam Houston State Bearkats.

When the conference’s preseason polls were released in July, Sam Houston was favored to win its fourth conference title since the 2011 season.

The Bearkats garnered 10 firstplace votes and 187 points.

Sam Houston coach K.C. Keeler said his team is ready to handle the pressure that comes with being the conference favorite.

“I think our kids understand that when you’re in our culture, it’s about certain expectations,” Keeler said. “There’s accountability and when things aren’t going our way we believe that we can turn the ship around. I think going deep in the playoffs the last four years, the team is hungry for the opportunity to win a national championship.”

The teams that could challenge Sam Houston in the Southland title chase are Nicholls State University (second, six first-place votes, 773 points), defending conference champion Central Arkansas (third, five first-place votes, 170 points) and McNeese State (fourth, one first-place vote, 159 points).

The Southland Conferences’ prowess was also recognized on a national level after all four of those teams are ranked in the STATS Football Championship Subdivision Preseason Top 25 Poll. Sam Houston was ranked fourth and was followed by Central Arkansas (16th), McNeese (17th) and Nicholls (18th).

Also garnering votes in the STATS FCS preseason poll were Stephen F. Austin and Southeastern Louisiana.

Last season, the Southland Conference also left its mark in the FCS playoffs with Sam Houston, Central Arkansas and Nicholls reaching the postseason. Sam Houston reached the semifinals, while Central Arkansas (second round) and Nicholls (first round) fell earlier in the playoffs.

McNeese, however, was left out of the playoffs despite posting a 9-2 record and being ranked at the end of the season.

Here is a breakdown of the Southland Conference heading into the 2018 season:

Central Arkansas Bears Head coach: Nathan Brown 2017 record: 10-2 overall, 9-0 in SLC (first) Predicted finish in 2017: Third (170 points, five first-place votes) Key players: Offense – RB Carlos Blackman, OL Hunter Watts; Defense – DL Chris Terrell, DB Juan Jackson What Brown is saying: "Preseason polls don't really mean much to us. We're working hard, building off our 2017 Southland championship. Hopefully this will be somewhat of a motivation to our players, our student-athletes, each and every day, knowing that we have a very good team coming back and we're working toward competing for another Southland Conference championship.”

Notes: Brown is in his first season as head coach after serving as the team’s offensive coordinator for two seasons under Steve Campbell, who left for the head coaching job at South Alabama …

The Bears are looking to replace Southland Conference Player of the Year Hayden Hildebrand, who passed for 3,129 yards and 29 touchdowns last season …

Central Arkansas open the 2018 season on Sept. 1 at Tulsa.

Incarnate Word Cardinals Head coach: Eric Morris 2017 record: 1-10 overall, 1-7 in SLC (ninth) Predicted finish in 2017: Ninth (53 points) Key players: Offense – WR Kody Edwards, OL Terence Hickman; Defense – LB Mar’kel Cooks, DB Jamarkese Williams What Morris is saying: “Coaches talk all the time about changing the culture, and people have a ton of ideas on how to get there. First and foremost, you’ve got to create relationships with these players. We had the challenge of coming in to about 70 student-athletes. We didn’t recruit these guys and didn’t know them from Adam, but we did a good job of establishing relationships. That allowed us to trust them and them to trust us.”

Notes: Morris is in his first season as head coach after previously serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas Tech … The Cardinals are returning 18 starters (10 offense, six defense and two special teams) from last season’s team … Incarnate Word kicks off the 2018 season on Sept. 1 at New Mexico.

McNeese State Cowboys Head coach: Lance Guidry 2017 record: 9-2 overall, 7-2 in SLC (tied for third) Predicted finish in 2017: Fourth (159 points, one first-place vote) Key players: Offense – QB James Tabary, RB David Hamm; Defense – LB BJ Blunt, DB Colby Burton What Guidry is saying: “We had a good year last year but it wasn’t quite good enough. Anytime you can win nine games is really impressive. Our goals are pretty high at McNeese. We have a great tradition and a great history. Our goal is always to get back to the national championship and win the conference championship. The only way to guarantee to go to the playoffs is to either win the conference or come out second.”

Notes: McNeese had the top overall defense (262.5 yards per game) and top scoring defense (17.1 points per game) in the Southland Conference last season …

McNeese has posted 13 straight winning seasons, dating back to the 2005 season … McNeese travels to Greely, Colo., for its 2018 season opener against Northern Colorado on Sept. 1.

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SOUTHLAND From Page 54

Northwestern State Demons Head coach: Brad Laird 2017 record: 4-7 overall, 4-5 in SLC (tied for sixth) Predicted finish in 2017: Eighth (86 points) Key players: Offense – QB Clay Holgorsen, TE Kalen Meggs; Defense – DL Zak Krolczyk, BUCK LB Obinna Iheoma What Laird is saying: “The opportunity to come back to Northwestern State was tremendous after being there at different times throughout my career. You reflect on guys that were around the program like (quarterback) Bobby Hebert, (running back) Joe Delaney and (receiver) Mark Duper – all had great NFL careers. You don’t realize it at the time, but you’re surrounded by guys like that. Being there as a player, a defensive coordinator and now a head coach, it’s important who is around you.”

Notes: Laird, a former Northwestern State player who is the school’s all-time leading passer, replaced Jay Thomas, a former Nicholls head coach, as the team’s head

coach … Sophomore safety Tevyn Johnson in a 2016 graduate of H.L. Bourgeois High School … Northwestern State opens its 2018 season on Aug. 30 against Texas A&M in College Station, Texas.

Sam Houston State Bearkats Head coach: K.C. Keeler 2017 record: 12-2 overall, 8-1 in SLC (second) Predicted finish in 2017: First (187 points, 10 first-place votes) Key players: Offense – WR Davion Davis, WR Nathan Stewart; Defense – DL Chris Stewart, DB Zyon McCollum What Keller is saying: “We’ve been the No. 3 team in the country the last four years. We’re trying to find a way to get over that hump. One of the ways to achieve that goal is to be more physical.

The great thing about being here in the great state of Texas is that we’re going to get some great athletes. Along with that, we need to find a way to incorporate a more physical brand of football. That’s what our focus is and it's what these new coaches are bringing to the table.”

Notes: Sam Houston State is looking to replace quarterback Jeremiah Briscoe, a

two-time winner of Walter Payton Award which is given to the most outstanding player in the FCS … Last season, the Bearkats led the Southland Conference and FCS in total offense (538.1 yards per game), scoring offense (43.3 yards per game) and passing offense (362.7 yards per game) … Sam Houston State will open the 2018 season on Sept. 8 with a home game against Prairie View A&M.

Southeastern Louisiana Lions Head coach: Frank Scelfo 2017 record: 6-5 overall, 6-3 in SLC (fifth) Predicted finish in 2017: Fifth (119 points) Key players: Offense – RB Marcus Cooper, OL Alfred Beverly; Defense – LB Tamarcus Russell, DB Dejion Lynch What Scelfo is saying: “We’ve spent every day since I started here evaluating our student-athletes in every facet. We’re excited about what we have in place. We have a lot of talent, but maybe not as much in-game experience as some of the other teams in our league. Our guys want to win. We’ve been impressed with how they come to work every day and have embraced our culture – how we practice and what our expectations are.”

Thursday, August 23, 2018 55

Notes: Scelfo is in his first season as the Lions head coach after Ron Roberts left to become the defensive coordinator at Louisiana-Lafayette … Junior quarterback Lorenzo Nunez was the Southland Conference’s Newcomer of the Year last season … Southeastern Louisiana will open the 2018 season on Aug. 30 with a road game against Louisiana-Monroe.

Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks Head coach: Jeff Byrd (interim) 2017 record: 4-7 overall, 4-5 in SLC (tied for sixth) Predicted finish in 2017: Sixth (90 points) Key players: Offense – QB Foster Sawyer, WR Tamrick Pace; Defense – DB Alize Ward, LB Ryan Woods What Byrd is saying: "When you look at the depth and the guys who have played meaningful time, that’s what excites me.

Anytime you have competition -- my job is to make you uncomfortable. The only way you’re going to improve is to be uncomfortable. That competition between positions is going to allow us to be competitive."

Notes: Byrd will serve as Stephen F. Austin’s head coach for the remainder of the season.

56 Thursday, August 23, 2018

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LSU TIGERS

LSU heading into a season of intrigue

By Mike Detillier Sports Correspondent

Coach Ed Orgeron found out that LSU fans are not happy with nine-win seasons.

The Tigers, after a rough patch in losing to Mississippi State and Troy, got it together, but that 2018 Citrus Bowl game loss to Notre Dame (21-17) had Tiger fans in an uproar in the offseason along with the release of offensive coordinator Matt Canada and losing a couple of top high school recruits late in the process.

Orgeron decided to elevate Steve Ensminger to offensive coordinator and veteran NFL wide receiver coach Jerry Sullivan to help piece together a new offensive attack.

This will be a new look on offense for LSU with a lot of three and four wide receiver sets and flexed out tight ends used as receivers.

Now, who will be the guy to turn the engine over on the offensive car?

LSU did not bring in former Ohio State quarterback Joe Burrow to hold a clipboard and folks around the program have raved about his work ethic, attention to detail, leadership and ability to throw the ball well in the short to intermediate areas of the game.

He is the favorite to beat out Myles Brennan for the starting spot.

This is the first time in my memory the Tigers don’t have a “bell cow” runner to return at halfback. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, all of 5-foot-7 and 208 pounds, looks to be the main rusher for the Tigers, but watch out for freshman running back Chris Curry.

The Tigers are loaded at wide receiver talent wise, but not a lot of experience in former Texas Tech standout Jonathan Giles, former Destrehan High star Justin Jefferson, speedster Derrick Dillon and two huge target prospects in Drake Davis and Stephen Sullivan.

Coach O has also talked highly about two freshman wide receivers in JaMarr Chase and Terrace Marshall and compared them to the LSU combo of Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham Jr., and that’s huge praise

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Ed Orgeron SEC 2017 overall record: 9-4 SEC record: 6-2 Years as head coach: 3 Record at school: 15-6 Overall record: 31-33 Last time in bowl game: 2017

2018 SCHEDULE

LSU linebacker Devin White (40) and safety Grant Delpit (9) tackle Arkansas running back Devwah Whaley (21) during a game last season in Baton Rouge. [AP FILE]

from the Larose native and South Lafourche High School graduate.

At tight end, LSU has a steady and dependable presence in Foster Moreau and former North Carolina State and the son of Randy Moss in Thaddeus Moss, who brings some downfield speed element.

Upfront the Tigers took a big loss in having projected starting guard Ed Ingram suspended indefinitely, but they are talented with left tackle Saahdiq Charles and right tackle Austin Deculus.

Damien Lewis has been the huge “catch” at the offensive guard spot, and he teams up with veteran Garrett Brumfield. Lewis and Brumfield were excellent in the spring.

The question mark will be how effective Lloyd Cushenberry can be at center to replace Will Clapp. With a new offensive scheme and a new quarterback, the center spot is crucial for communication and also leadership out on the field. Cushenberry is a must watch player for LSU in 2018.

On defense, LSU’s front-seven is as talented and have as much depth as I have seen in the past six to eight years. They are that good.

Nose tackle Ed Alexander is nursing

a knee injury, but the Tigers moved former Texas Tech starter Breiden Fehoko to the nose tackle spot and his backup is talented and one huge man in Tyler Shelvin.

Shelvin is down to 355 pounds and has impressed the coaches with his talent and his quickness for such a big man.

Rashard Lawrence is one of the top defensive lineman in the SEC, and the Tigers are thrilled to see the progress of former Destrehan High star Glen Logan, who Orgeron and defensive coordinator Dave Aranda said had one of the Top 3 spring workouts.

Aranda has praised the progress of young defensive lineman in Neil Farrell Jr. and Justin Thomas.

The “Watch Out” player for LSU upfront is sophomore outside linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson, who has been unblockable at times in the practice sessions, and LSU is excited to see the progress of Michael Divinity and Andre Anthony at the other outside linebacker spot.

LSU has the best inside linebacker in college football in Devin White. He is just not an All-SEC player, but an All-American. Jacob Phillips is quite a presence alongside White, and they

Sept. 2: vs. Miami (Fla.)# Sept. 8: Southeastern Louisiana Sept. 16: at Auburn* Sept. 22: Louisiana Tech Sept. 29: Ole Miss* Oct. 6: at Florida* Oct. 13: Georgia* Oct. 20: Mississippi State* Nov. 3: Alabama* Nov. 10: at Arkansas* Nov. 18: Rice Nov. 24: at Texas A&M* # -- AdvoCare Classic game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas * -- SEC Game All games can be heard on 870-AM

2017 REVIEW Def. BYU, 27-0; def. Chattanooga, 45-10; lost to Mississippi State, 37-7; def.

Syracuse, 35-26; lost to Troy, 24-21; def.

Florida, 17-16; def. Auburn, 27-23; def. Ole Miss, 40-24; lost to Alabama, 24-10; def.

Arkansas, 33-10; def. Tennessee, 30-10; def. Texas A&M,45-21.

Citrus Bowl: lost to Notre Dame, 21-17.

KEY PLAYERS QB Joe Burrow (6-4, 216, Jr.), RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (5-9, 212, Soph.), TE Foster Moreau (6-6. 256, Sr.), OL Saahdiq Charles (6-5, 305, Soph.), DE Rashard Lawrence (6-3, 217, Jr.), LB Devin White (6-1, 240, Jr.), CB Greedy Williams (6-3, 184, Soph.), S John Battle (6-2, 206, Sr.)

have outstanding depth with talented inside linebackers in Tyler Taylor and Patrick Queen.

Greedy Williams is one of the elite cover cornerbacks in the nation. Like White, Greedy is just not All-SEC but All-American. So Kary Vincent better have some titanium in the backbone with the amount of balls thrown in his See LSU, 65

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TERREBONNE From Page 44

chance to be special this season. They will operate out of a 3-5-3 scheme.

“They’ve had a great summer,” Hill said. “A lot of guys stepped up. They are more confident now. We have some physical kids who love to get after the ball on defense.”

Robinson said the Tigers are ready to show everyone their talents.

“We should want it more for ourselves than anybody else," Robinson said. "I tell them all the time to block out the hype and all the talk. We just got to do it. We’re going to let our game show for us. We’re going to keep working to get better every week.”

When looking at their schedule, James said the Tigers will have a tough road ahead of them, especially in District 7-5A against annual state powers in Hahnville and Destrehan leading the pack. Terrebonne will try

to win its first district title since 2010.

But James said Terrebonne is capable of playing with anyone on any night.

“We’re very confident. We’re just going to play whoever is in front of us,” James said. “We are ready to give it our all. I’ve never experienced nothing like this. Everybody has to come out and watch us on Friday Night Lights. We’re going to have a great season.”

Hill said the potential is there, but now it is time for the Tigers to go out and prove it.

“They are working hard and trying to get better on a daily basis. They are doing a great job of staying humble and staying together as a team.

Hopefully we stay together,” Hill said. “We can’t let outside forces pull us a part. We have to stick to what has worked and made us a competitive team. Now we just have to climb over that hump and get over that hill and become a team that’s going to be able to compete for district championships and maybe make a run at Dome.”

TARPONS From Page 38

and can all run. I am very excited to see what our linebackers can do.

We are young in the secondary and still trying to find out who will play back there. Along the defensive line, we will probably be two deep, so we will have a good rotation there on Friday nights.”

Heading into the 2018 season, the Tarpons have some unfinished business. They are looking to advance past the first round of the playoffs for the first time since the 2009 season. Last season, South Lafourche fell to Tioga, 31-16, in its playoff opener.

Billiot said the Tarpons are using last year’s playoff disappoint as fuel for the upcoming season.

“We are hungry,” he said. “We have been putting in the work all summer, and we are ready to get out there. We want to prove

Thursday, August 23, 2018 57

“We want to try to finish the job and win the district championship this year. But our biggest goal this year will be to win a game in November. Last year getting knocked out in the first round of the playoffs really hurt” Blake Forsythe

everybody wrong that we are better than a 6-5 program.”

Forsythe said he is confident that the Tarpons have the confidence and hunger to accomplish their goals.

“We want to try to finish the job and win the district championship this year,” he said. “But our biggest goal this year will be to win a game in November. Last year getting knocked out in the first round of the playoffs really hurt, and I think the biggest thing for us is we want to learn how to win in November. Our goal is to get into the second or third round of the playoffs.”

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NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Saints head into season in Super Bowl hunt

By Mike Detillier Sports Correspondent

At this time during the past three off-seasons, there was no way you could have said the New Orleans Saints were Super Bowl contenders.

Today, you can.

It all came down to two years of signature drafts and good free-agent signings. Sean Payton is a very good head coach and coaching does matter, but you are a much better coach with better players.

The Saints have the set-up now to make a deep playoff run with the talent level accumulated over the past 2 ½ years.

And with a 39-year old quarterback, the pressure is on to win and win big now with the best player to ever wear the Black and Gold in Drew Brees.

Payton went back to the winning formula days of 2009 and 2011 in having a balanced offense. Last season, the Saints rushed the ball for the third most yards in the Payton era, trailing only-you guessed it- 2011 and 2009.

Instead of having weekly games with Brees throwing the ball 45 times a game, the Saints went to a more balanced attack (55 percent passing and 45 percent rushing). That helped the Saints win the NFC South division title with an 11-5 record and a playoff victory over the Carolina Panthers.

But if you need some games with 45 throws to win it, Brees still has the magic.

The Saints have one of the most electrifying and dynamic offensive players in the game in Alvin Kamara who puts you on the edge of your seat watching him as a runner, receiver and kickoff returner.

His “power” partner in the backfield, Mark Ingram, will miss the first four games due to violating NFL substance rules, but the Saints have good depth at halfback in bruising

veteran Terrance West, a good young runner in former Arkansas halfback Jonathan Williams, an excellent pass catching receiver and edge rusher in Shane Vereen and a short in stature, but super quick and elusive runner in rookie Boston Scott from Louisiana Tech.

The Saints have a star wide receiver in Michael Thomas who has caught more passes in two seasons to start a career than anyone in NFL history.

The former Buckeye is a stud pass receiver who can take over a game.

Opposite Thomas is aging, but still speedy end in Ted Ginn Jr., former Chicago Bears wide-out Cam Meredith-who is coming off of major knee surgery and a very promising rookie in Tre’Quan Smith from Central Florida.

The Saints brought back veteran Ben Watson at tight end, and he is still solid across the board. The Saints brass still are high on the potential of Josh Hill at tight end. A young prospect in Dan Arnold, a wide receiver turned tight end, has caught the eyes of the coaches in training camp.

But the real strength and the straw that turns the drink is what the Saints have upfront along their offensive line.

Terron Armstead and Ryan Ramczyk are two of the best offensive tackles in the league if they can stay healthy.

Max Unger is a really good player and key piece offensively for the Black and Gold.

Andrus Peat and Larry Warford form a strong offensive guard combination for the Saints.

And the Saints have good depth along the offensive line in veteran Jermon Bushrod, former LSU standout Will Clapp and veteran Josh LeRibeus.

On defense, the key is developing the young talent accumulated along the defensive line.

Cameron Jordan is considered one

of, if not the best, all-around defensive end in the business, but the Saints key to Super Bowl Sunday is in the hands of the development of defensive tackles Sheldon Rankins and David Onyemata, prized rookie defensive end Marcus Davenport, second-year defensive end Trey Hendrickson and veteran Alex Okafor, who was having a strong 2017 season before rupturing his Achilles tendon. Nothing wins more games in the fourth quarter than a pass rush and the Saints have the potential to have that missing piece of the football puzzle.

Middle linebacker DeMario Davis is a big addition to the defense, which needed to have a bigger presence in the middle. Alex Anzalone is gifted at weakside linebacker, but he has had trouble staying healthy in college and his first season in the NFL. The Saints have good veteran talent to man the other spots and depth in A.J. Klein, Manti Te’o, dependable Craig Robertson and Nate Stupar.

The Saints have two superstar players in the secondary in cornerback Marshon Lattimore and free safety Marcus Williams. They are two of the best at their respective spots in the league.

Ken Crawley has made great progress manning the other starting cornerback spot and the Saints have veteran Patrick Robinson as their nickel cornerback. “P-Rob” is not the same player he was when he started his NFL career and he’s a ballhawk.

P.J. Williams brings depth to the cornerback slot.

Vonn Bell is a promising starter at strong safety, and Kurt Coleman has been brought in to be the emotional leader and communicator in the secondary.

The one question mark is who will be the Saints punt returner in 2018. Tommylee Lewis has had a few moments, but Payton is searching and veteran wide receiver/return man Brandon Tate may well be the answer.

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Sean Payton NFC South 2017 overall record: 11-5 2017 playoffs: 1-1 (lost in NFC Divisional round) Years with Saints: 11 Record with Saints (including playoffs): 112-75 Last title: Super Bowl XLIV (2009 season)

2018 SCHEDULE Sept. 9: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sept. 16: Cleveland Browns Sept. 23: at Atlanta Falcons Sept. 30: at New York Giants Oct. 8: Washington Redskins Oct. 21: at Baltimore Ravens Oct. 28: at Minnesota Vikings Nov. 4: Los Angeles Rams Nov. 11: at Cincinnati Bengals Nov. 18: Philadelphia Eagles Nov. 22: Atlanta Falcons Nov. 29: at Dallas Cowboys Dec. 9: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Dec. 17: at Carolina Panthers Dec. 23: Pittsburgh Steelers Dec. 30: Carolina Panthers All games can be heard on 870-AM

2017 REVIEW Lost to Minnesota Vikings, 29-19; lost to New England Patriots 36-20; def. Carolina Panthers, 34-13; def. Miami Dolphins, 20-0; def. Detroit Lions, 52-28; def. Green Bay Packers, 26-17; def. Chicago Bears, 20-12; def. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 30-10; def. Buffalo Bills, 47-10; def. Washington Redskins, 34-31, OT; lost to Los Angeles Rams, 26-20; def. Carolina Panthers, 31-21; lost to Atlanta Falcons, 20-17; def.

New York Jets, 31-19; def. Atlanta Falcons 23-13; lost to Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 31-24.

2017 Playoffs: def. Carolina Panthers, 31-26 (NFC Wildcard round); lost to Minnesota Vikings, 29-24 (NFC Divisional round).

KEY PLAYERS QB Drew Brees (6-0, 209); RB Alvin Kamara (5-10, 215), WR Michael Thomas (6-3, 212), OL Terron Armstead (6-5, 304), DE Cameron Jordan (6-4, 287), LB Demario Davis (6-2, 248), CB Marshon Lattimore (6-0, 192), S Marcus Williams (6-1, 195).

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RECRUITS From Page 50

play.”

Assumption coach Anthony Paine said senior linebacker Josh Ratcliff is getting interest from Nicholls and Southeastern Louisiana.

“Coach Rebowe’s staff really likes Josh, but they just want to see more game tape from him,” Paine said.

“That’s fine because Josh has bounced around from position to position for us and doing what the team him to do. He is a total team guy, which goes a long way because colleges are looking for ways his can help them. I believe he can help any team he goes to.”

E.D. WHITE CATHOLIC

Legendre, who plays quarterback at E.D. White but is being recruited as a receiver and kick returner, has overs from several major football programs, including Notre Dame, Texas Brandon Legendre Christian University (TCU), Arizona State, West Virginia, Kentucky, Vanderbilt and others.

But he fell in love with LouisianaLafayette’s program, which is led by first-year head coach Billy Napier.

“That list of offers I had to choose from was so long, but I felt comfortable with Coach Napier and his staff,” Legendre said. “You can tell they are really for the players. Coach Napier is always talking about he is trying to help the players become young men. I really felt like with all the goals I wanted to

accomplish, that there was no better spot. It’s closer to home. My family can come see me play. Everything just seemed perfect. I’m just happy to be going there.”

E.D. White coach Chris Bergeron said Legendre has handled the entire recruiting process with class.

“I really admire Brandon’s decision to do it early,” Bergeron said. “He wanted to make it early so he can focus on our team, and that’s a real admirable decision on his part.”

Bergeron said other senior players getting interest are linebacker Aaron Benfield, running back Michael Clement, defensive end Andrew LeBlanc and defensive tackle Karson Adams.

ELLENDER

Patriots coach David McCormick said several players have received interest so far.

Senior defensive lineman/linebacker Lance Rockwood has interest from FCS teams and Division II teams.

Junior running back Jahon Johnson, junior offensive/defensive lineman Willie Howard and freshman quarterback Ryan Williams are getting interest from small schools.

VANDEBILT CATHOLIC

Vandebilt senior athlete Brennan Patterson, who plays receiver, defensive back and kick return, has an offer from Southern University-Baton Brennan Patterson Rouge and Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Nicholls and other state schools are showing interest.

Patterson, who missed most of his junior season with a foot injury, is

expected to receive more offers and interest as his senior season goes on.

“He’s going to be one of the big recruits. Colleges just want to see if he’s healthy,” Vandebilt coach Jeremy Atwell said. “He’s 90 percent, but his 90 percent is pretty impressive, so it’s exciting. It’s exciting for the players and the younger guys to see guys getting recruited and knowing that you could be at Vandebilt and still get recruited.”

Atwell said that senior offensive lineman William Wade (6-5, 302) is also getting looks.

CLASS 3A ST. JAMES

Junior athlete Shamar Smith, who plays quarterback and receiver for the Wildcats, has received offers from Tulane, Nicholls, Northwestern State, Shamar Smith Toledo, Kansas and Texas State.

“It feels very special to have those offers,” Smith said. “It shows that my hard work is paying off. I can’t get big headed. I have to be a team player and do what I can to help the team win.”

Senior running back Dontaz Sterling also has an offer from Prairie View.

CLASS 1A COVENANT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

CCA coach Randy Boquet said senior running back/ defensive back Anthony Ruffin has interest from Army, Navy, Air Force, Nicholls, Southeastern Anthony Ruffin Louisiana, Louisiana College, Southern and Grambling. He has an offer from Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Offensive lineman/defensive lineman Collin Davis (interest from Army, Navy, Air Force, Arkansas Pine Bluff), running back Channing Holloway and quarterback Nick Lagendyk could get some interest.

HOUMA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Houma Christian head coach Chuck Battaglia said senior running back/ linebacker Zachariah Trujillo and senior offensive lineman/defensive lineman Jeremy Bardarson are the only two players on the team receiving college interest.

OTHER

Coaches from South Lafourche, South Terrebonne and Central Lafourche said they don’t have any recruits at the moment.

— Sports Editor Brent St. Germain and staff writer Kelly McElroy contributed to this story.

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T U L A N E G R E E N WAV E

Green Wave focused on reaching bowl game Staff and wire reports

NEW ORLEANS – With 18 starters returning from last year’s team, which fell just inches shy of earning a bowl bid for the first time since 2013, head coach Willie Fritz has plenty of reasons to be enthusiastic about the 2018 Tulane Green Wave football team.

“We’re really, really excited about the beginning of the season,” Fritz said. “Coaches have been working hard since the end of last year recruiting and also preparing for the upcoming year. The players have done a great job with developing.”

The Green Wave had a 3-2 record after five games last season, but their season unraveled after a 23-10 non-conference loss to Florida International.

Tulane went on to lose four of its last six games to finish the season at 5-7 overall. Four of those losses were decided by seven points or les The Green Wave will open the 2018 season on Aug, 30 against Atlantic Coast Conference foe Wake Forest at Yulman Stadium.

Fritz said Tulane’s depth this year – 105 players are on the roster – is crucial in all areas but is most noticeable with the offensive linemen.

“I feel like we’ve got a lot more Division I football players who can play in The American,” Fritz said.

“That’s very, very important. A lot of veterans, new guys coming in. It just makes practice flow a lot better when you’re not having to take breaks so the offensive linemen can take breaks.

Now we’ve got 16 offensive linemen and we’re able to roll three groups.”

As the team prepares for Wake Forest, Fritz said the team will continue preparations. The Green Wave played the Demon Deacons in Fritz’s first game as Tulane’s head coach in 2016.

“You work on that game more than you work on any other game that you play throughout the year because

AT A GLANCE Head coach: Willie Fritz American Athletic Conference 2017 overall record: 5-7 AAC record: 3-5 Years as head coach: 3 Record at school: 9-15 Overall record: 163-84 Last time in bowl game: 2013

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 30: Wake Forest Sept. 8: Nicholls Sept. 16: at UAB Sept. 22: at Ohio State Sept. 28: Memphis* Oct. 6: at Cincinnati* Oct. 20: SMU* Oct. 27: at Tulsa* Nov. 3: at South Florida* Nov. 10: East Carolina* Nov. 16: at Houston* Nov. 24: Navy* * -- AAC Game

Tulane quarterback Jonathan Banks (1) runs past Memphis defensive back Josh Perry (4) during a game last season. [AP FILE]

of where it falls,” Fritz said. “We’ll have about 12 practices where we’re going to start working and zeroing in toward Wake Forest. You want to get off to a fast start, there’s no doubt about that.”

The play of Banks was also a talking point for Fritz, and he noted that a key point of emphasis will be Banks knowing when to run for crucial yardage and knowing when to go out of bounds or slide. Unless a first down or touchdown is needed, protecting the quarterback will be important.

With the way Banks kept improving toward the tail end of the 2017 campaign, Fritz knows his quarterback has a chance for a special season.

“He had a really good handle of the offense (late in the year), and also we as coaches figured out what he could do in the scheme of our offense and started tailoring it around him,” Fritz said.

“We think he can be an All-Conference-type quarterback in this league.”

For his part, Banks has been putting in extra time this summer to prepare for his final season of college football.

He’s become more of a leader for the

team and shows that leadership with the amount of work he’s putting in.

“Me growing up, my dad always preached to me about the ‘it’ factor and about being able to put 15-20 extra minutes in,” Banks said. “It adds up to typically an hour and a half if you add it up throughout a week. I’m just a firm believer in putting in extra work and setting myself up to be great and my teammates to be great as well.”

Banks, who served as a counselor over the summer at the Manning Passing Academy at Nicholls, started in 11 games last season for Tulane, finishing the year with 1,797 yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions.

He generated 592 yards and seven touchdowns as a runner.

Banks, who has played at Independence Community College in Kansas and Contra Costa College in Texas before joining Tulane last year, said he has grown as a player and leader entering his senior year with the Green Wave.

“I’m way more confident to start the season as a leader,” Banks said. “I’m way more confident with play calls.

2017 REVIEW Def. Grambling State, 43-14; lost to Navy, 23-21; lost to Oklahoma, 56-14; def. Army, 21-17; def. Tulsa, 62-28; lost to Florida International, 23-10; lost to South Florida, 34-28; lost to Memphis, 56-26; lost to Cincinnati, 17-16; def. East Carolina, 31-24, OT; def. Houston, 20-17; lost to SMU, 41-38 KEY PLAYERS QB Jonathan Banks (6-2, 230, Sr.), WR Terren Enclade (5-0, 190, Sr.), RB Darius Bradwell (6-1, 225, Jr.), OL John Leglue (6-7, 310, Sr.), DE Patrock Johnson (6-2, 235, Soph.), LB Zachery Harris (2-0, 220, Sr.), CB Donnie Lewis Jr. (5-0, 195, Sr.), S Roderic Teamer Jr. (6-0, 205, Sr.)

I’m able to check things and get us out of certain situations. My teammates follow me at times. We’re just looking forward to a great season this year.”

Banks said he loves the atmosphere that Tulane head coach Fritz has created in New Orleans. Banks said he believes that the program is on the rise.

“Coach Fritz brings a lot of energy and excitement to the table,” Banks said. “He’s a player’s coach. When you got a coach like that, he’s going to always turn the program around.”

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TROJANS From Page 12

Weaver said the defense is playing with more energy because it is excited to show fans what it can do on the school’s new artificial turf field at Trojans Stadium.

“We got the new field, so we have the mindset that we have to show up and play hard in every game,” he said. “During the offseason and in the spring, we worked hard and did what we needed to do to get better.”

Getting to the playoffs is the Trojans’ No. 1 goal this season, and Menard said a tough District 7-5A slate can help prepare them for a postseason run. Last season, Central Lafourche went 1-5 in 7-5A. “Our district is not going anywhere, so we will have to step it up,” Menard said. “Everybody talks about the River teams and those guys are always near the top, but

“Everybody talks about the River teams and those guys are always near the top, but Terrebonne, Thibodaux and H.L. Bourgeois will also be in the mix. We will need to bring out A game, so we have to be ready to go.”

Keith Menard

Terrebonne, Thibodaux and H.L. Bourgeois will also be in the mix.

We will need to bring out A game, so we have to be ready to go.”

While winning close games can get the Trojans in the playoffs for the first time since the 2005 season, the players are looking at bigger and better things. They are eyeing the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, which is the site of the Class 5A state championship game.

“Our main goal is to not only make it to the playoffs but to make it to the Dome,” Samuels said.

“We are going to the Dome. We are always saying Dome 18 because we are going to the Dome this season.”

MUSTANGS From Page 10

of the ball.

The Mustangs will field an experienced defensive squad with eighth starters returning, including the entire secondary led by Shawn Hall Jr. who committed to Nicholls State University over the summer.

With so many returning starters, Paine said the key on defense will be avoiding significant injuries.

“We only lost three starters on defense, so we will have a strong unit on that side of the ball if we stay healthy,” he said.

“We will be leaning heavily on defense as our new offensive starters catch up. We have been playing pretty good defense here for a while, so this is expected. We are more focused on us and executing our schemes, and the rest will take care of itself.”

Assumption's path to another

Thursday, August 23, 2018 63

“A lot of things have to bounce your way for that to happen. You have to stay healthy, and the battle in our district race will be who will be healthy at the end. That’s how I see it because we have a lot of good competition coming back.”

Anthony Paine

playoff appearance and possible district championship will not be easy. It will face seven playoff teams from the 2017 season.

Paine, who is heading into his seventh season as Assumption’s head coach and 10th overall at the school, said the players understand what it takes to get it done.

“My goal when I stepped back on this campus 10 years ago was to make it a consistent district competitor and consistent playoff team,” he said. “We have been able to do that, so now the goal is to keep it going.

We will continue to do our job, keep showing up every day and doing the things that we know works day in and day out.”

64 Thursday, August 23, 2018

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LSU From Page 56

direction.

Interesting battle for depth with former Lutcher quarterback Jontre Kirklin, freshman Kelvin Joseph and Stanford transfer Terrence Alexander.

John Battle is a key at safety due to his skillset and communication skills, and Grant Delpit has All-SEC talent alongside him. Eric Monroe, Todd Harris, JaCoby Stevens and Cameron Lewis give the Tigers excellent depth and talent on special teams.

Other than Burrow, the most watched newcomer for LSU is placekicker Cole Tracy. The Tigers need Tracy to develop into a big time kicker to finally solve a problem as a consistent placekicker, which has been an issue just as long as quarterback.

Also for the talent, the Tigers recruit every year they should have

top special teams units, especially in the return game. But that has not been the case. Former New Orleans Saints special teams coach Greg McMahon has been brought in to fix the issues that have been a major problem for LSU. It’s a tough schedule, no doubt about it, when you have Miami (Fla.) and Auburn in two of the first three games and Mississippi State, Georgia and Alabama along the way, but LSU has talent.

The Tigers are loaded on defense, but this 2018 team comes down to just how quickly LSU can develop Burrow at quarterback and gaining some rapport with his receivers.

Special teams are still a question mark for me at placekicker and in the return game, and LSU needs to win in that category this season.

LSU fans were not happy with nine wins last season. If LSU gets to nine wins this season, the mood would be far different with the schedule and question marks.

And Alabama and Nick Saban are still around.

SPECIAL TEAMS From Page 53

SPECIAL TEAMS Nicholls brings back senior allAmerican kicker Lorran Fonseca, who made a school record 19 field goals last season and led the FCS with 1.58 field goals per game and was 15th in the country with 7.7 points per game.

He was key in helping the Colonels win four one-score games last season and Nicholls also has a three-year starter at long snapper returning in Wesley Barnett.

“I am excited to see how everyone will come together,” Fonseca said. “(On special teams) we just want to go out there and do our jobs and trust one another. I have to trust that the snap and hold will be good. We have room to improve and want to have a good year. I am striving to be the best I can be day by day.”

Rebowe said he has lots of

Thursday, August 23, 2018 65

“I am excited to see how everyone will come together.”

Lorran Fonseca

confidence in both Fonseca and Barnett.

“Lorran is just a weapon,” Rebowe said. “When we get inside the 40-yard line we have the legit possibility of scoring point. We also have a threeyear starter at long snapper in Wesley Barnett back so I feel good about that.”

At punter, former starter Tyler St. Germain was a senior last year and junior Winston Jones, a former E.D. White Catholic player, has taken over the punting duties.

“Winston came in and starting working in the spring,” Rebowe said.

“He is doing a good job for us.”

Rebowe also said he expects numerous players to compete to make it on the return and coverage teams.

“We try to get some younger guys and older guys who may not be playing as much some time on special teams,” Rebowe said. “It’s a chance for them to gain some experience through the year.”

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BRAVES From Page 20

Corey Sullivan.

“We feel pretty good about that group,” Fournier said. “Those kids have been attacking in the scheme Coach Sullivan has put in. It’s an aggressive scheme. I think we’re going to be fast on defense. I think those guys are going to be the group that carry us and put us into position to win on a weekly basis.”

Walker said the Braves battled through a lot of growing pains last year. Now he believes they are ready to play.

“We know that we were young last year. We were thrown into the varsity waters at a young age,” Walker said.

“Now it’s our senior year and they’ve been waiting on us we have to show everybody what we can do. If we keep everybody on the same page, we’re going to wake a lot of people up.”

Walker said he hopes H.L. Bourgeois fans come out and support the

“Now it’s our senior year and they’ve been waiting on us we have to show everybody what we can do. If we keep everybody on the same page, we’re going to wake a lot of people up.”

Trevonte’ Walker

team this year.

“We know H.L. is going to be behind us,” Walker said. “We just have to give them a reason. We got to show them.”

Fournier said the Braves will do everything they can to put a successful product on the field this season.

“The key to our season will be to put ourselves in a position to be successful by working hard, showing up every day and doing what we’re supposed to be doing,” Fournier said.

“I’m hoping that once the fans and community sees that we’re trying to do things the right way, we can maybe win a couple of ballgames here, starting putting people in the stands and have them believing in us."

CARDINALS From Page 16

“Everyone knows that we went undefeated in district last season, so we need to be hungry and ready to go to repeat as district champs.”

Bergeron said the hunger that Legendre is showing is rubbing off on his teammates as the competition to fill the open starting positions has been intense through spring and fall workouts.

“We have a lot of wide-open spots right now, and that’s what gives these guys a little bit of hope and hunger heading into the season,” Bergeron said. “We only have a few positions with an established starter returning, so we have a lot of players wondering what can they do to get a lot more playing time.”

That type of competition will be needed in the District 7-4A race because Assumption, Ellender,

“We have a lot of wide-open spots right now, and that’s what gives these guys a little bit of hope and hunger heading into the season.

We only have a few positions with an established starter returning, so we have a lot of players wondering what can they do to get a lot more playing time.”

Chris Bergeron

Morgan City, South Lafourche, South Terrebonne and Vandebilt Catholic will all be gunning for the Cardinals.

Bergeron said he is expecting another battle until the end for the district championship.

“I think it is the same as it has been in the past,” he said. “Obviously, I think you have to start with Assumption, South Lafourche and Vandebilt because those are the Top 3. You also can’t look past South Terrebonne, Ellender and Morgan City because they are drastically improved and could get themselves in that Top 3.”

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