River parishes football 2014

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East St. John Wildcats

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Wildcats seek to maintain physical identity

By RYAN ARENA L’Observateur

RESERVE — Xavier Lewis was thrown into the fire in his first year as East St. John starting quarterback, and through three games it seemed the Wildcats’ conversion to a new spread-based offense may have been ill-fated.

But those doubts didn’t last: Lewis and

his teammates wouldn’t let them. After scoring just 14 points over their first three weeks of 2013, East St. John averaged 31 over its next nine games, buoyed in a big way by the ability of Lewis and tailback Nigel Anderson to break away from the defense.

After a season that saw the Wildcats win their first home playoff game since 2006, coach

Phillip Banko said to expect more of the same on the offensive side of the ball.

“We’ll stay wide open,” Banko said. “We do a lot of what you see at Oregon, at Arizona, what Rich Rodriguez did at West Virginia and Tulane.

“Honestly, it doesn’t matter what we run when you have guys like Xavier, Nigel Anderson and (wide receiver)

Jarrod Jackson. Those guys tend to make an offense look good.”

Banko kept coming back to one word when describing what he was looking for from his team this season.

“Explosiveness,” Banko said. “We want to see guys making impact plays on both sides of the ball.”

Onlookers will be curious to see how a slew of new faces stack

up after the Wildcats graduated a large senior class and saw 15 players from last year’s team ink to play at the next level on National Signing Day. “People want to talk about what we’ve lost, but I’ll tell you what, we’ve got some guys here who are ready to step in,” Banko said.

The Wildcats identity last season was of a physically domi-

nant team on both the offensive and defensive lines. Anderson finished as the River Region’s second leading rusher in the regular season, while quarterback and LSU commitment Lewis — back to that buzzword, explosiveness — was responsible for a number of game-changing plays.

And the Wildcats’ See ESJ, Page 5

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| football 2014 |

Page 4

East St. John Wildcats

AHMANI MARTIN

obediah payne

xavier lewis

dequan gibson

nigel anderson

shedrick colbert

wednesday, august 27, 2014

Wildcats’ Projected Starters Offense

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

East St. John

Defense

QB - Xavier Lewis, SR.

DL - Larry Gardner, SR.

Coach: Phillip Banko

RB - Nigel Anderson, SR.

DL - Demarco Kirklin, SR.

Record at School: 20-14

RB - Shedrick Colber, SR.

DL - Jaren Stewart, JR.

Career Record: 20-14

RB - J.B. Stewart, SR.

DB - Dontrell Allen, JR.

WR - Jaylon Brown, SR.

DB - Antonio Parks, SR.

WR - Jarrod Jackson, SR.

DB - Shayhan Williams, SO.

OL - DeQuan Gibson, SR.

LB - Jazz Clayton, JR.

OL - Miles Myers, SO.

LB - Daniel Ellis, SR.

OL - Alton Webb, JR.

LB - Victor Martinez, JR.

OL - Shan Williams, SR.

LB - Ahmani Martin, SR.

OL - Alvin McQuirter, SR.

LB - Ronald Spears, SR.

2013 record: 7-5 (reached regional round)

District Opponents: Destrehan, Hahnville, South Lafourche, Central Lafourche, H.L. Bourgeois, Thibodaux, Terrebonne Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3

OL - Nathan Robinson, SO

PAGE 5

ESJ: Lewis is ‘Mr. Everything’ From Page 3

starting defensive line accounted more than 50 sacks between the four players.

The good news is Lewis and Anderson are back. The question mark lies with the line play: all five starting offensive linemen and all four starting defensive linemen have departed.

Banko is encouraged about both lines, cautioning each stills needs to prove itself against outside competition.

Though the offensive line returns no starters, Banko believes a crew of upperclassmen are more than capable of leading the way.

Junior left tackle Alton Webb, Banko said, has a tremendous amount of upside and “dominated” ESJ’s preseason scrimmage with Donaldsonville.

“I’m pleased with how they’ve answered the bell,” Banko said.

“We’ve got two senior guards who, while they haven’t played before, understand what we’re doing. It makes all the difference.”

At receiver, Jackson will be joined by Jaylon Brown, a 6’4” senior that gives Lewis a big downfield target.

While the Wildcats’ defensive line is inexperienced, there is more stability behind them.

Safety/linebacker Ahmani Martin comes off a season that saw him share L’OBSERVATEUR’S St. John Parish Defensive MVP honors with teammate Darren Williams.

The “Honeycat” is a playmaker that Banko said is successful because he “plays with a chip on his shoulder.”

“Everyone looks at him when he gets off

the bus and they’ll think, ‘That guy? He doesn’t play.’ He’s not the biggest guy but he’s a very talented, very very smart kid.”

Middle linebacker Jazz Clayton will be a key factor, and Banko sees senior defensive lineman DeMarco Kirkland as someone who can step in and make an impact.

In the secondary, ESJ should be very good.

Dontrell Allen and Antonio Parks each had strong 2013 campaigns, while Banko is pleased with the development of Shayhan Williams.

And, of course, there’s Lewis, who can and likely will slide into a defensive back’s role in key situations.

“They call him Mr. Everything for us,” said Banko.

“And it’s deserved.

He’s very much a student of the game.”

East St. John 2014 Schedule Sept. 5 vs. Rummel Sept. 13 at Scotlandville Sept. 19 at John Curtis Sept. 26 vs. South Lafourche Oct. 3 at Central Lafourche

Oct. 10 at H.L. Bourgeois Oct. 17 vs. Hahnville Oct. 24 at Thibodaux Oct. 31 vs. Terrebonne Nov. 7 at Destrehan

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Xavier Lewis, an LSU commitment, is a jack of all trades for the Wildcats.

Lewis will likely see action at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, kick and punt returner, cornerback and safety this season.

| football 2014 |

Page 6

wednesday, august 27, 2014

St. Charles Catholic Comets

Offense

LAPLACE — Coach Frank Monica chuckled while speaking at the first St. Charles Catholic Quarterback’s Club meeting of the season, where he introduced former Saints and collegiate quarterbacking great Archie Manning to the crowd in attendance.

“Buddy Teevins and I had the audacity to try and recruit his son Peyton to play for us at Tulane,” Monica said with a smile. “But he ended up going to a little school called Tennessee.”

The future NFL superstar may have eluded Monica, but few other goals have for a man who has shaped St. Charles into one of the state’s premier pro-

and for good reason.

Erron Lewis enters his senior season upon a wave of momentum after finishing with more than 1,200 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns last season.

Backup tailback Justin Loupe also proved effective. Then there’s quarterback Austin Weber, who converted from tailback during his sophomore season. Weber presents a threatening ability to take off with his legs while bringing two seasons of starting experience to the table as a passer. “(Lewis) has made a lot of strides in his allaround game,” Monica said. “We’re really looking forward to seeing what he can do this year.”

The Comets’ offensive line must prove

up to the task of opening rushing lanes.

Monica said senior guard Michael Bosarge has come forward as a leader on that unit. He is one of two returning starters, the other being tackle Tyrin Arceneaux.

“No matter how well we run the ball,” Monica, however, cautions, “we have to have the ability to throw it downfield.”

He doesn’t think his team will lack for weapons, calling the receiving corps the deepest unit on the squad. Though SCC hasn’t had its receiving squad together due to illness and injury, Brady Becker, Monica said, has been impressing. Dane Authement and Albert Hane are also players Monica has high expectations

for, and tight end Zach Maurin has had a good summer.

“We have a chance to be pretty good at our skill positions,” Monica said. “We feel like we’ll have some weapons.”

Defensively, the secondary has shown great promise, led by junior Eric Lewis — the brother of tailback Erron. He’s joined by Jace Snowden, Jacoby Johnson and Cameron Torres.

“They’ve looked pretty good,” Monica said.

“But we’ve still got to see how they do against outside competition.”

Defensive end Jonathan Scarpero is one Monica has high hopes for as he rebuilds his front seven, and Trace Cortez is among those who have looked good at linebacker.

Defensive tackle

Charles LeDuff, Monica said, is one of the team’s most important players. LeDuff, a firstyear starter, must play well to anchor against the run.

While Lewis and Snowden are the only two returning starters for SCC’s defense, Monica said that side of the ball could be one of the fastest units the team has had in awhile.

Potentially one of the biggest factors in the Comets’ fortunes this season, however, was revealed outside of the SCC campus, and the River Parishes for that matter: John Curtis and Evangel highlight a group of Division II schools that have agreed to move up to Division I for Select postseason play.

See SCC, Page 25

Sept. 5 at Southern Lab 7 p.m.

Oct. 10 vs. John Curtis 7 p.m.

Sept. 12 vs. East Jefferson 7 p.m.

Oct. 17 at De La Salle 7 p.m.

Sept. 19 vs. E. Ascension 7 p.m.

Oct. 24 at McMain 7 p.m.

RB - Jeff Millet, SR.

DL - Brandon Andry, SR.

Sept. 26 vs. Miller McCoy 7 p.m.

Oct. 31 vs. Lusher 7 p.m.

DE Jonathan Scarpero, JR.

Oct. 3 at Ville Platte 7 p.m.

Nov. 7 vs. Grace King 7 p.m.

WR - Brady Becker, JR.

grams.

St. Charles has been to three state finals under Monica, including a state championship win in 2011, and has been an annual contender to make a deep postseason run.

MaxPreps.com recently named the Comets Louisiana’s 15th most dominant football team of the MaxPreps era (from 2004 through today), with five Top 25 finishes in that stretch.

The Comets have had to reload before, and Monica seemingly always has his team ready to post a winning season. SCC will have to do it again after the graduation of 15 starters, particuarly on defense where only two starters return.

The Comets expect much out of their running game this season,

DL - Jaelon Gordon, JR.

St. Charles 2014 schedule

DL - Charles LeDuff, SR.

WR - Dane Authement, JR.

L’Observateur

Defense

RB - Erron Lewis, SR.

TE - Zach Maurin, SR.

By RYAN ARENA

PAGE 7

Comets’ Projected Starters QB - Austin Weber, SR.

Retooled Comets eye postseason run in 2014

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

DL - Cody Duhe, SR. LB - Wayne Revere, JR.

OL - Michael Bosarge, SR.

LB - Trace Cortez, JR.

OL - Tyrin Arceneaux, JR.

SS - Cameron Torres, SR.

OL - Tyler Forsythe, SR.

FS - Eric Lewis, JR.

OL - Ricky Gaubert, SR.

CB - Jacoby Johnson, JR.

OL - Kobie Houston, JR.

CB - Jayce Snowden, JR.

St. Charles Catholic 2014 Coach: Frank Monica Record at School: 133-50 Career Record: 219-68 2013 record: 8-4 (reached regional round)

District Opponents: Curtis, De La Salle, McMain, Lusher Offense: Multiple (one and two back) Defense: 3-4 (odd front)

Page 8

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wednesday, august 27, 2014

austin weber

charles leDuff

michael bosarge

eric lewis

jonathan scarpero

PAGE 9

Riverside Academy

St. Charles Catholic Comets

erron lewis

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

Rebels eying crown, not dwelling on loss

By RYAN ARENA L’Observateur

VACHERIE HOME AND AUTO

RESERVE — Former Riverside quarterback Deuce Wallace may indeed have departed, but the expectations of the teammates and coaching staff he left behind haven’t gone anywhere.

Wallace and his family moved back to Tennessee, where he is originally from and where he will play prep ball for his upcoming junior season.

Rebels coach Bill Stubbs said his team refuses to dwell on the loss of Wallace, and he may have a point: Riverside still appears

to be, on paper, one of the most talented teams in Class 2A and in the Division III postseason picture.

“I think it’s also made everyone look around and realize there’s no reason they can’t do it here with this group, and that’s because these guys are very good,” Stubbs said.

With Wallace goes over 5,000 yards of passing offense and 61 touchdowns over the past two years.

But Riverside has high hopes for freshman Jordan Loving, who, already standing at 6’3,” fits the prototype mold.

“We’re very happy

with where Jordan is,” Stubbs said. “We’ve got a lot of confidence in him. It’ll be really interesting to see him respond to being thrown into the fire.

He’s a smart kid and every day, you see not only his confidence grow, but his teammates’ faith in him.

That’s probably the most important thing.”

He’ll have help. The Rebels do bring back a wealth of experience on both sides of the ball, beginning with one of the most productive receiving corps in the state.

Herb McGee, Von Julien and Darrion Cook present major

problems for a defensive coordinator, each combining great speed with size (McGee stands at 6’3”, Julien at 6’2” and Cook at 6’).

“I wouldn’t trade that group, collectively, for anyone else out there,” Stubbs said.

“The receiving group as a whole, I mean, you might have guys out there getting this offer, that D-I interest …

Nobody works harder than these guys.

“And I’ll tell you what else, they’ve been offended, I think, that people have said that these are basketball players trying to play football. They’re football players, trust me.

They’re tough as they come.”

Stubbs said that McGee has also been working at quarterback. McGee made two starts at quarterback last season, leading Riverside to wins in each.

His athletic ability provides a contrast to Loving’s pocket-passing strengths.

“Herb gives us another dynamic and we’re working to maximize that skillset there,” Stubbs said. “Even if Jordan gets off to a great start, we can turn to (McGee) as that change of pace.”

The Rebels boast a deep backfield led by

Brandon Sanders and an offensive line that’s ascended over Stubbs’ first two years as coach. Hardell Mack and DeAndre Wilson also figure to fit heavily into the picture as ballcarriers after strong showings last season.

Sanders is healthy after missing time last season.

Defensively, linemen Joe Anderson and Richie George and linebackers Evan Veron and Brandon Hymel lead an aggressive, playmaking front seven.

Riverside’s secondary is losing three key senior startSee RA, Page 11

| football 2014 |

Page 10

Riverside Academy

Riverside Academy Coach: Bill Stubbs Record at School: 13-9

District Opponents: St. James, Cohen, Fisher, Newman, South Plaquemines, Wright, Carver

Career Record: 158-51

Offense: Spread

2013 record: 8-3 (lost in first round)

Defense: 3-4

wednesday, august 27, 2014

herb mcgee

evan veron

Riverside 2014 Schedule Sept. 5 at Evangel 7 p.m.

Sept. 12 vs. Loranger 7 p.m.

Sept. 19 at West St. John 7 p.m.

Sept. 26 at St. James 7 p.m.

Oct. 3 vs. Cohen 7 [.m.

From Page 9

another guy’s position or do too much.

They’re understanding the scheme. And, boy, when you’ve got that, it makes all the difference in the world.

“It’s a massive difference.”

Harrison Heckathorn and Freddie Means are two players Stubbs is

QB - Jordan Loving, FR. WR - Herb McGee, JR. WR - Von Julien, SR. brandon sanders

richie george

tannEr triche

WR - Darrion Cook, SR. RB - Brandon Sanders, JR.

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high on at linebacker.

In the secondary, Jujuan Bell is another Stubbs favorite. Bell wears the No. 24, which was worn by 2013-14 senior Jacorey Haynes: Stubbs reserves the number for a player he thinks exemplifies hard work and leadership each season.

Rebels’ Projected Starters Offense

Oct. 10 vs. Fisher 7 p.m.

Oct. 17 at. Newman 7 p.m.

Oct. 24 vs. S. Plaquemines 7 p.m.

Oct. 31 vs. Sophie B. Wright 7 p.m.

Nov. 7 vs. Carver 7 p.m.

PAGE 11

RA: Defensive leaders stepping up ers and the team must find others to fill the void. Hymel tied for the River Region interceptions lead with four.

“They’re becoming much smarter,” Stubbs said.

“You’re seeing guys not trying to play

joe anderson

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

Defense DL - Joe Anderson, SR. DL - Thaddeus Andry, JR. DL - Richie George, SR. LB - Evan Veron, JR. LB - Harrison Heckathorn, SO.

RB - Hardell Mack, SO.

LB - Freddie Means, SO.

OL - Beau Borgeois, SR.

LB - Brandon Hymel, SR.

OL - Tanner Triche, SR.

DB - Jajuan Bell, JR.

OL - Drake Perret, JR.

DB - Cardez Joseph, SO.

OL - Austyn Oubre, SR.

DB - Jacob Venus, SR.

OL - Cameron Cook, SO.

DB - Kendall Martin, JR.

Good Luck

To All River Parishes Teams Whitney Joseph, Jr. - Assessor

Bruno Burrell, Jr. - Chief Deputy Assessor

Riverside’s Evan Veron (44) and Richie George (90) sandwich an Evangel runner during last season’s opener. (Photo by Chris Cox)

Go Rams!

GOOD LUCK

Go Wildcats!

to our St. John the Baptist Parish Public School District student-athletes!

Kevin R. George

Superintendent of Schools

| football 2014 |

Page 12

wednesday, august 27, 2014

West St. John Rams

West St. John Rams

Rams won’t rebuild, rather reload for season

By RYAN ARENA L’Observateur

EDGARD — Senior West St. John defensive back Trey Nathan looked to the SEC when speaking about his team’s expectations this season.

“We don’t accept rebuilding here,” Nathan said. “We’re like the Alabama of Class 1A. New guys come in, and the system continues to work.

That’s a credit to Coach (Robert) Valdez.

As Nathan alluded to, West St. John will be going to battle on the gridiron with plenty of new faces in uniform this fall. Gone is quar-

terback Austin Howard, gone is running back Jeremy Jackson and gone is defensive end Brandon Matthews, among a host of others.

But Nathan, nor his coach, mince words: the Rams plan to play into December, just as they have in each of the past three seasons.

“The confidence level that we’ve established here, we expect to win,” Valdez said. “We plan on playing into late November and beyond.

That’s just the way it is is here at West St. John and we look for that to continue.”

Indeed, the Rams have grown accustomed to winning over

the years. West St. John has secured state titles in 1998, 2003 and 2004.

WSJ has finished as a state runner-up, state semifinalist and state semifinalist respectively over the past three seasons and, under Valdez, the team has been virtually untouchable in Class 1A over that stretch, going 24-3 against teams in its classification.

This year, the Rams must do it behind a different passer. Only Howard has started behind center for WSJ in the past three seasons. Jermoine Green will step in as the team’s new signal caller. The junior backed

up Howard last season and also played wide receiver.

“The old adage says you go with your best athlete, and he’s got a chance to really be something,” Valdez said. “He’s got a good arm and a pretty good command of the offense. We’re going to be a little more athletic at that spot in terms of running with it.”

That aspect, Valdez said, will give a different dimension to the Rams’ no-huddle attack. Howard’s greatest strengths were his quick release and ability to process defensive coverages, and Green will have to develop

those things, the coach said.

But off the bat, teams will have to respect his ability to make a big play with his legs.

“His feet are very fast,” Valdez said. “We can use him to do more things in terms of running. Jermoine will get to that place (diagnosing defensive coverages as Howard did), but right now we know he can make things happen in other ways.”

Behind him are a pair of experienced tailbacks in Bradley Borne and Lamore Boudoin, each of whom backed up Jeremy Jackson a year ago. Borne rushed for more than 1,000

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

yards while spelling Jackson.

At receiver, 6’4” Morell Bartholomew returns to lead a corps with multiple players standing 6’1” or taller.

Valdez is excited about junior Dontell Louper, who stands at 6’3” and presents another inviting target for his young passer.

“We’ve got some speedsters too, but having those bigger receivers is huge for us with a young quarterback,” Valdez said. “It takes the pressure off for throws to be perfect.”

The offensive line will start three juniors, See WSJ, Page 14

morrell bartholomew

trey nathan

jemoine Green

bradley borne

anfernee lumar

jimmy conner

PAGE 13

| football 2014 |

Page 14

Rams’ Projected Starters Defense

Offense QB - Jemoine Green, JR.

DL - Covan Borne, FR.

RB - Bradley Borne, SR.

DL - Ryan Cannon, JR.

RB - Lamore Boudoin, JR.

DL - Anfernee Lumar, SR.

OL - Quntrell Perrilloux, JR.

LB - Dontell Louper, JR.

OL - Quantae Gaudia, SR.

LB - Nicholas Borne, JR.

OL - Brett Bailey, FR. OL - Ryan Cannon, JR. OL - Malik Bean, SO.

LB - Awan Lewis, 8th LB - Jimmy Conner, SR. LB - Trey Nathan, SR.

WR - Morrell Bartholomew, SR.

DB - Jamal Walters, JR.

WR - Dontell Louper, JR.

DB - Kie’Ave Harry, JR.

WR - Jabari Walters, JR.

DB - Ronald Dumas, SR.

wednesday, august 27, 2014

WSJ: Defense should be sharp From Page 12

including two-way difference maker Ryan Cannon, a sophomore and a freshman.

“We’re gonna be good and young,” Valdez said.

“This group really works hard. We’ve got faith and trust in them that they’ll fight and make life difficult for opposing people.”

Defensively, the Rams are more experienced.

Nathan is usually the first name off Valdez’s lips on that side.

He said the safety will do a little of everything, saying he’ll play a role for WSJ reminiscent of Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu.

Nathan has three scholarship offers currently, Valdez said, from

Liberty, Grambling State and Kent State, with Louisiana Tech also showing interest.

“He’s 6’1” and 215 pounds, and he runs a 4.5,” Valdez said. “He covers a lot of ground out there. We’re gonna put him in a lot of different positions so he can keep making plays.”

Tackle Quantae Gaudia will be asked to provide much of the push up front on the defensive line while Louper and Jimmy Connor are versatile, multi-positional playmakers behind him.

Deep in the 1A playoffs, the run game rules.

Stopping the ground attack is objective No. 1 for the Rams, Valdez said.

“It’s the physical mentality we have to

have,” Valdez said.

“You look at what we’ll be dealing with in those late-season games, the Haynesvilles, the Manghams … you have to stand up to them.”

As for Nathan, he indicated he not only takes his on-field role seriously, but his role as a locker room leader.

After all, be at Alabama or West St. John, the program must continue to excel.

“I tell 23 (Glenn Grayman) there, our young corner, that he’s better than me, he just hasn’t realized it yet,” Nathan said. “We’ve got great athletes here, and we’re together. There’s no disrespect among us. We’re confident in ourselves but we know we have to be humble as well.”

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

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9/4 at St. James 7 p.m.

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9/12 vs. Bogalusa 7 p.m.

10/17 vs East Iberville 7 p.m.

9/19 vs. Riverside 7 p.m.

10/24 vs Ascension Catholic 7 p.m.

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Lutcher

Bulldogs’ Projected Starters

Defense

QB - Jontre Kirklin, SO.

DL - Tyler Williams, JR.

OL - Cameron Waguespack, SR.

DL - Raynel Hayes, SO.

District Opponents: St. Michael, Plaquemine, Tara, Belaire

Career Record: 245-106

Offense: Spread

OL - Brandon Bleakley, SR.

DL - Sully Laiche, JR.

2013 record: 5-6 (lost in opening round)

Defense: 3-3-5

OL - E’Ron Michael, SR.

LB - Nick Duhe, SR.

OL - Matt Duhon, SR.

LB - Shawn Brignac, JR.

OL - Rhett Lodrigues, SR.

LB - Ricky Ross, SR.

RB - Narquez Jones, FR.

DB - Ben St. Pierre, JR.

RB - Kendrick Jackson, JR.

DB - Dontell Johnson, JR.

WR - Al’Dontre Davis, SO.

DB - Dylan Recotta, SO.

WR - Gavin Englade, SR.

DB - Anthony Brown, JR.

WR - Destin Porter, JR.

DB - Paul Joseph, SO.

Sept. 5 at Dutchtown

Oct. 10 at St. Michael

Sept. 12 vs. McDonogh No. 35

Oct. 17 vs. Tara

Sept. 19 vs. West Jefferson

Oct. 24 at Plaquemine

Sept. 26 vs. St. Amant

Oct. 31 vs. Belaire

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Laiche leads strong defensive ‘Dogs team

by RYAN ARENA L’Observateur

LUTCHER — “At Lutcher, no matter what happens, everything’s OK if you’re playing on Thanksgiving week,” reflected Lutcher football coach Tim Detillier.

“But if you aren’t, it’s unacceptable.”

Detillier knows the pulse of his community and fanbase, having coached the Bulldogs for the past 22 years and to three of the school’s six state championships.

Lutcher last reached that Thanksgiving week goal — the week of the state semifinal round — in 2011.

That’s been followed by two consecutive first-round exits, each under wildly different circumstances.

The first, a 30-29 loss to St.

Martinville, was considered a major upset, the Bulldogs falling after going 9-0 during the regular season.

Last season, Lutcher fell 32-28 to LaGrange in the opening round, a defeat that came after the Bulldogs went 5-5 during an injury-ravaged regular season.

Detillier wouldn’t use the injuries — which forced the Bulldogs to use a whopping five quarterbacks by end of the season’s second week — as an excuse, but conceded that he’d “never seen anything like it in all my years as a coach.” He credited his players for fighting back to make a push in district play.

He also said the disappointing 5-6 finish has led to a hungier group of players in 2014.

“They hear out in the community, just like we (coaches) do,” Detillier said. “The kids have set some lofty goals for themselves.

They’re very hungry.

It’s going to be a tough start schedule-wise, but we go through it every single year.”

Detillier believes this Lutcher team’s calling card may well be its defense, a unit that brings back a ton of experience and positional versatility.

“They’re going to the ball, and when they get there, they’re in a bad mood,” Detillier said. “I thought they dominated our scrimmage (against Denham Springs).”

It starts up front with a stout defensive line led by junior Sully Laiche, sophomore

Raynell Hayes and junior Tyler Williams.

Laiche was the team’s defensive MVP in 2013.

Nick Duhe, Shawn Brignac and Ricky Ross comprise a linebacking corps with plenty of size and ability.

“They all started last year,” Detillier said.

“The flexibility those guys bring is great for us. We’ve been lacking quality depth over the past couple of seasons and when you have guys who can man multiple positions, it makes it easier to field your best 11 when the injuries do strike.”

Junior safeties Ben St. Pierre and Dontrell Johnson are the top returning players in the secondary. “(St. Pierre) is Mr. Utility for us,” Detillier said. “He’ll be a force

for us as long as he’s healthy.”

Offensively, sophomore Jontre Kirklin takes over at quarterback.

Detillier said his athleticism is a major asset, but he will have to battle inexperience.

Kirklin saw time at quarterback a season ago.

“He’s one of the best athletes on the team,” Detillier said. “When you’ve got a broken play, he’s probably at his best.

“He’s very talented and can create some positive things for you.

And he’s going to have a deep wide receiver corps to throw to.

That’s probably the deepest part of our team, again.”

Gavin Englade and Destin Porter are

the top returnees at receiver. Senior Trey Harrison and sophomore Al’Dontrae Davis, the team’s biggest receiver, add to the mix, as does promising freshman Gregory Clayton. Clayton is the cousin of former Bulldogs great and current Miami Dolphin receiver Jarvis Landry.

The backfield will be by committee, at least to begin the year, and the offensive line is a group Detillier has confidence in, led by seniors Rhett Lodrigues and Matt Duhon.

The final judge of a season well-played, said Detillier, will be what date that final game is played on.

“To make that deep playoff run,” Detillier mused, “that’s Lutcher football.”

| football 2014 |

Page 22

wednesday, august 27, 2014

St. James Wildcats

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

Wildcats’ Projected Starters Offense QB - Lowell Narcisse, SO. RB - Camrin Grows, SO. WR - Curtlan Johnson, SO. WR - DeMarcus Williams, FR.

WR - Fabian Steib, SR. WR - Aaron McKenney, JR. OL - Tywon Johnson, JR. OL - Khalil Joseph, SR. OL - Adarielle Johnson, SR. OL - Tyler Broden, SO.

PAGE 23

St. James Wildcats

Defense DT - Jonta Jones, SR. DT - Raymon Patterson, SR. DE - Kollon Steib, SR. DE - Angelios Washington, SR.

LB - Aquindas Steib, JR.

lowell narcisse

aquindas steib

jonta jones

aaron mckenney

mason scott

angelios washington

LB - Tevin Gros, SR. S - Jai Lewis, JR. CB - Mason Scott, SR. CB - Kaelan Zenon, JR. S - Lymell Zenon, SR.

OL - Trevaugh Boldin, FR.

Wildcats looking to build on surprise run

By RYAN ARENA L’Observateur

ST. JAMES — Season preparation is a little different this time around for coach Dwain Jenkins and his St. James Wildcats football team. Then again, in some ways, it’s more familiar than ever.

Jenkins took over a once-proud Wildcats program in 2013 after a pair of winless seasons, campaigns that were a shock to prep fans used to the Wildcats contending for district titles and threatening to make deep playoff runs.

The rebuilding effort took a little while to get off the ground, SJH falling in its first four games last season to extend its losing streak to 24. But once the

Wildcats got that first win, SJH caught fire, a run that saw the team win six of its next eight games before falling in the Class 2A quarterfinals at Kinder, 21-13.

Once again St. James was making a deep playoff run. And once again, Jenkins was one of the masterminds of such a run, after a strong run as the offensive coordinator of perennial power Lutcher.

“We’ve embraced (the added expectations),” Jenkins said.

“We feel like we may have arrived ahead of schedule. Maybe not in the regular season … but by the end of the year, the finish to it, we know people now expect more. And now we can start laying the groundwork for hopefully making that play-

off run into December.”

There are a number of reasons for legitimate optimism here.

The Wildcats were extremely young last season, starting numerous eighth graders, freshmen and sophomores. Nine offensive starters return for St. James, while 10 will be back on defense.

“We knew it was going to be a rebuilding season last year,” said Jenkins.

“We went with the youth movement and let a lot of guys who probably would have been JV players last year get experience on Friday nights.

“Moving onto this year, we’re still young, but we’ve got a lot more experience.”

Another reason for high expectations is the

presence of sophomore passer Lowell Narcisse, who blossomed in the second half of last season into a strong dual threat. Narcisse erupted for a number of big performances after dealing with injuries and inexperience early in 2013, and he carried that momentum over to this year’s spring game. There, he tossed six touchdown passes.

“He may have played some quarterback here and there before last season, but mostly we expected him to rely on his athleticism as he grew into the role,” Jenkins said. “But when he got hurt, he had to learn to rely on his ability to pass.

“Now, when you look at him, his recognition of coverages, his anticipation, knowledge of

when to let it go and where to go with it, he’s made so many strides.

He protected the ball last season, and we need that to continue.”

On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Aquindas Steib was the biggest breakout star, earning All-State recognition after a string of dominating playoff performances.

“He was playing as well as anyone in the state by that point,” Jenkins said.

Jonta Jones is a huge presence in the middle of the defense at tackle at 6’1”, 285 lbs. And in the secondary, Jenkins believes Mason Scott is in line for a big year.

“Jonta’s one of the leaders of our team as a whole,” Jenkins said.

“And Mason Scott is a guy who really quietly

had a great year for us. He’s a guy who can lock down a team’s No. 1 receiver, but, if our corners develop, we’d like to have him in the middle of the field at safety.”

Jenkins said the things he felt weren’t realistic discussion points after two winless seasons are now things he and his team can and will focus on: perfecting the habits of championship teams.

“We know the teams that had our number last season,” Jenkins said. “We weren’t ready to compete with teams like Riverside, and West St. John. Maybe we’re still not ready to beat those teams, but when we play them, we’ll have a chance to really see how far we’ve come.”

Page 24

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St. James Coach: Dwain Jenkins Record at School: 6-7 Career Record: 6-7 2013 record: 6-7 (Reached quarterfinals)

District Opponents: Riverside, Newman, Fisher, South Plaquemines, Wright, Carver, Cohen Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple

St. James 2014 Schedule Sept. 4 vs. West St. John Sept. 12 at E.D. White Sept. 19 vs. V. Catholic Sept. 26 vs. Riverside Oct. 3 at Fisher

Oct. 10 vs. Newman Oct. 17 at South Plaquemine Oct. 24 vs. Wright Oct. 31 at Carver Nov. 6 vs. Cohen

wednesday, august 27, 2014

| football 2014 |

SCC: Division II bracket now open From Page 6

John Curtis and Evangel have combined to win 39 state championships.

Reports have also indicated St. Thomas More and Teurlings Catholic will move up.

After last year’s much publicized select and non-select school split, which expanded the state’s championship divisions from five to eight, with that affecting only the postseason, St. Charles was left to compete in a stacked Division II roster of teams including the aforementioned four schools Remaining are perennial contenders including Notre Dame, University Lab and

Comets Jordan Snowdy, Jonathan Scarpero and Brandon Klibert make a tackle last season.

Parkview Baptist.

And, of course, the Comets.

“We still have to play John Curtis in our district,” Monica said.

“But the relief comes in that you don’t have to play that team twice.

I think it gives teams

in our division a lot of motivation, now, in terms of what’s ahead in the postseason. Now it’s a slate of 3A and 4A teams that share a similar philosophy.

Certainly, everyone in this division should be encouraged.”

PAGE 25

Page 26

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PAGE 27

Hahnville Tigers Good Luck to All River Parishes Teams!

Hahnville sports new coach, new look

BY RYAN ARENA L’Observateur

BOUTTE — On offense, Hahnville is shifting from a pro style attack to the option. Defensively, the focus moves from man to zone.

Implementing such drastic changes on both sides of the ball in one offseason is an ambitious venture.

Of course, nobody has ever accused new Hahnville coach Nick Saltaformaggio of lacking ambition.

“We’re not where we want to be right now, but luckily we don’t have to be just yet,” Saltaformaggio said.

“I think we’re coming along pretty well in all three phases.”

Saltaformaggio, who led East Jefferson to its first ever state football championship last season, was tabbed for the Hahnville head coaching job after long-

time Tigers coach Lou Valdin stepped down earlier this year. The former EJHS coach earned national recognition for his work with the Warriors and, once Valdin made his departure official, was the kind of splash hire that captured the imaginations of Tiger fans.

Still, the adjustment is ongoing.

“The biggest thing right now is our tempo,” Saltaformaggio said. “You know, it’s one thing to be having to learn a new offense, a new defense, a new style in the kicking game … but learning it at the (fast) tempo I like to have in practice presents a challenge.

On one hand, I don’t want to slow down, but on the other, sometimes I have to back off a little so we can get it right.”

The Tigers rarely lack for talent and won’t again in 2014. Six Hahnville players are

committed to play at the next level, including defensive back Jai Knight, defensive linemen Dwaine Thomas and Fred Brown, wide receiver Brandon Singleton, running back/wide receiver Rickey Preston and offensive lineman Landon Kinler.

The biggest offensive playmakers figure to be Singleton and Preston, the latter converting to “slot back” after playing receiver last season.

In Singleton, Saltaformaggio said these Tigers will have something his East Jefferson team did not have: a true deep threat.

“We had fast guys who couldn’t catch and slow guys who could,” said Saltaformaggio.

“So many times, we were blocking nine or 10-man boxes. Now, if you give us that look, a single-high (safety), we

have someone who can make that explosive play.”

Quarterback Mike Neal, meanwhile, has to make less adjustment to a new offense than most — he transferred to the school from the most well-known of option teams, John Curtis.

“I think he’s got a lot of ability,” Saltaformaggio said.

“He’s deceptively fast, he’s long and he whips the ball out there very well. We need to find ways to protect him.

He has an option background, which helps.”

Neal’s play, as well as the play of Hahnville’s offensive line, is what will ultimately determine the team’s offensive success, Saltaformaggio said.

“There’s no questioning the ability of guys like (Singleton and Preston),” Saltaformaggio said.

“They’re dynamic play-

ers. But I still think you win games at the line of scrimmage. That’s where we need to make significant strides. If you don’t have good offensive line and quarterback play, you’re going to struggle to get to where you’d like to be.”

Defensively, Brown looks to be the anchor at nose tackle in the team’s new 3-3 stack scheme.

“He’s as good a football player as I’ve ever coached,” Saltaformaggio said.

“That nose guard has to be a demon for you in the 3-3 stack.

“He has unbelievable lower body strength and tremendous agility. He’s probably the most flexible guy on our team, if you can believe that. I’m really looking forward to seeing him play.”

At linebacker, Chris Marshall has made his presence known —

Saltaformaggio calls him “the best defensive player we’ve got who’s not named Fred” — while the secondary is strong with Knight leading the way. “(Knight) has a very high football IQ,” Saltaformaggio said.

Once the season comes, there will be no time to waste: nondistrict clashes with contenders Salmen, Rummel and LandryWalker will offer major tests to the Tigers and a coach who hasn’t lost a game since 2012.

“I haven’t minced words with our team,” Saltaformaggio said.

“We’ll have to play very, very well early.

Some teams can back into their seasons, are maybe good enough to where they just have to not actively hurt themselves and lose a game.

That’s not us.

“We’re going to have to go out and win those games.”

| football 2014 |

Page 28

Tigers’ Projected Starters Offense

Defense

QB - Mike Neal, JR.

DL - Fred Brown, SR.

RB - Bradley Aucoin, SR.

DL - Jacob Plache, JR.

RB - Drew Dunn, JR.

DL - Josh Comardelle, SR.

RB - Rickey Preston, SR.

LB - Dwain Thomas, SR.

RB - Davante Craven, JR.

LB - Payton Robert, JR.

WR - Brandon Singleton, SR.

LB - Stephen Cloud, JR.

WR - Waylon LeBlanc, SO.

S - Drew Favre, SR.

OL - Landon Kinler, SR.

S - Keiland White, SR.

OL - Adrien Young, SR.

CB - Eric Gilmore, JR.

OL - Drew Jones, SO.

CB - Monte Williams, JR.

OL - Drew Melancon, JR.

S - Jai Knight, SR.

OL - Carmichael Critton, JR.

wednesday, august 27 2014

brandon singleton

landon kinler

rickey preston

dwain thomas

bradley aucoin

Hahnville Coach: Nick Saltaformaggio

Career Record: 129-48

District Opponents: East St. John, Destrehan, South Lafourche, Central Lafourche, H.L. Bourgeois, Thibodaux, Terrebonne

2013 record: 6-6 (Reached regional round)

Offense: Option Defense: 3-3 Stack

Record at School: 0-0 (1st year)

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Sept. 5 vs. Salmen

Oct. 10 vs. Terrebonne

Sept. 12 vs.. Reed

Oct. 17 at East St. John

Sept. 19 at Landry

Oct. 24 vs. H.L. Bourgeois

Sept. 26 vs.Thibodaux

Oct. 31 vs. Central Lafourche

Oct. 3 at Destrehan

Nov. 7 at South Lafourche

PAGE 29

Destrehan Wildcats

Hahnville Tigers

fred brown

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

Robicheaux has Wildcats thinking state again

By RYAN ARENA L’Observateur

DESTREHAN — When he returned to Destrehan two years ago for his second stint as Wildcats head coach, coach Stephen Robicheaux reminded his team that it meant something to represent Destrehan on the football field.

After three non-playoff qualifying seasons, Robicheaux sought to restore the program to the heights it achieved during its two-year, back-to-back state championship seasons in 2007 and 2008.

While the Wildcats didn’t haul in another state crown last season, the DHS program

came awfully close to climbing to the top of the Class 5A mountain again.

Destrehan went 10-0 on the field last regular season — though DHS had to forfeit its victory over South Lafourche — and the Wildcats reached the state semifinals.

Of Destrehan’s regular season wins, none came by less than 25 points. The Wildcats bring back 16 starters from that team.

“Here at Destrehan, the expectations are always high,” Robicheaux said.

“We’re really excited with where the program is again. Obviously, with 16 starters back from a team that went to the semifinals, we’re

looking to put together another strong year and we can’t wait to get this thing kicked off.”

Destrehan will call on first-year starter Marquise Darensbourg to fill some big shoes.

Quarterback Donovan Isom has moved on to play at Utah on the collegiate level after a sensational senior season.

Isom compiled a 26-to1 touchdown-to-interception ratio while piling up over 2,000 yards through the air.

Robicheaux said DHS may scale back the playbook a bit to allow its sophomore quarterback time to get his feet wet.

That said, he has faith in Darensbourg to step in and find success.

“He has tremendous

upside,” Robicheaux said.

“He’s got a very strong arm and he’s a physical kid. He’s got all the tools, and the only thing he’s lacking right now is experience.”

Darensbourg certainly steps into a good situation. Destrehan returns four receivers from its shotgun spread attack, as well as tailback Will Matthews, who rushed for 20 touchdowns last regular season.

Three of those receivers, Alfred Smith, Kirk Merritt and John Williams, finished among the top six receivers in the River Region last regular season. Tremaine Armstrong caught just

14 passes last season, but 10 went for touchdowns.

“We’re real fortunate to bring all of those guys back,” Robicheaux said.

“Our receiving corps has the potential to be one of the best we’ve ever had.”

D e f e n s i v e l y , Destrehan loses leading tacklers RaeJuan Marbley and Malcolm Darensbourg, but otherwise brings back a stout roster of talent.

DHS boasts a huge defensive front, led by the 6’5”, 215 lb. Glen Logan. Gerald Wilbon (6’3”, 310 lbs.) and Ed Leonard (6’, 265 lbs.) join him on the defensive line.

Peyton Steib and Allen Pittman are

returning starters at linebacker.

And in the secondary, the Wildcats are stacked. Free safety Brandon Scott is being heavily recruited by high-Division I schools.

Strong safety Raekwon Morgan is who Robicheaux calls the team’s “most instinctive player,” and cornerback Korian Reynaud is a LouisianaMonroe commitment.

Destrehan will enjoy an extended home stay this season: seven Wildcats games will be contested in Destrehan’s home stadium, something Robicheaux and his team hope will help propel them two wins further than their semifinal finish in 2013.

| football 2014 |

Page 30

Wildcats’ Projected Starters Offense

Defense

QB - Marquise Darensbourg, SO

DL - Glen Logan, Jr.

WR - Alfred Smith, SR.

DL - Gerald Wilbon, JR.

WR - Kirk Merritt, SR.

DL - Ed Leonard, SR.

WR - John Williams, JR.

LB - Alex Zayed, SR.

WR - Tramaine Armstrong, JR.

LB - Tyjon Sanchez, JR.

RB - Will Matthews, SR.

LB - Allen Pittman, SR.

OL - Ryant Price, SR.

LB - Payton Steib, SR.

OL - Louis Keiffer, SR.

DB - Raekwan Morgan, SR.

OL - Elijah Duhe, SR.

DB - Brandon Scott, SR.

OL - Kyle Weems, SR.

DB - Korian Reynaud, SR.

OL - Austin Abbate, SR.

DB - Kendall Anderson, SR.

wednesday, august 27, 2014

| football 2014 |

wednesday, august 27, 2014

Destrehan Wildcats Board Certified Physicians alfred smith

korian reynaud

will matthews

brandon scott

Ryant price

raekwon morgan

John G. Burvant, MD Joseph L. Finstein, MD Charles G. Haddad Jr., MD Keith P. Melancon,MD Jeffrey J. Sketchler, MD Michael P. Zeringue, MD Brandon Donnelly, MD

Sept. 5 vs. W. Jefferson Sept. 12 vs. Helen Cox Sept. 19 vs. Dutchtown Sept. 26 vs. Terrebonne Oct. 3 vs. Destrehan

Oct. 10 at Thibodaux Oct. 17 at. Central Lafourche Oct. 24 vs. South Lafourche Oct. 31 at H.L. Bourgeois Nov. 7 vs. East St. John

Coach: Steve Robicheaux

Career Record: 116-30

District Opponents: East St. John, Hahnville, South Lafourche, Central Lafourche, H.L. Bourgeois, Thibodaux, Terrebonne

2013 record: 12-2 (reached semifinals)

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Record at School: 116-30

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Destrehan’s Brandon Scott is one of Destrehan’s most fierce competitors and top collegiate prospects. (Photo by Chris Cox)

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