May magazine 2017 by Gridiron Football

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Andrew Bryson, Owner/Publisher LGF

STAFF Andy Bryson- Owner/Publisher

Laura Norsworthy– Senior Editor

Kristen Bryson– Editor

Phil Blanchard– Dir. Of Marketing

Jason Saucier– Photographer

Christian Moore– High School FB

Patrick Mchaffey– Writer

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Dear Readers, I am constantly asked what I think about the Draft picks for (insert name of your team here). I am looking forward to next month’s magazine as my chance to tell everyone what I think the future holds for all of their favorite teams and players. Some teams I feel did very well, while others took some gambles. Be sure to subscribe today via our Facebook page to make sure that you get all of the 2017 Draft information you could possibly want. This month’s magazine focuses on spring football across the state. You may be wondering spring football? Isn’t it too early for football? To you I say, football NEVER ends. There is always something fresh and new to get excited about in the wide world of football. My poor wife could tell you that around our house there is always a game to watch, a statistic to look at, player film to analyze, and of course articles for the magazine to write. As we exit the spring football time of the football season, we enter into the portion of the year for Draft analysis and free agency pick ups as well as NFL training camps. After that , there is fall training camps for college. And before you know it , regular season will have started. I myself eagerly anticipate all the football to come this year. If you are like me, and have difficulty going without football for any extended length of time, check out our website www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com for articles, statistics, and analysis of high schools, college, NFL , and even some semi-professional football. Sincerely,

Coach Andy Bryson

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CONTENTS 7 10 12 16 19 20 26 28 30 32 34 36 38

5.1.17

Louisiana Is Third in College Recruits in D1 Football Louisiana College LSU Tulane Grambling State McNeese State QB James Tabary Nicholls State Southern La Tech Southeastern Northwestern State ULM UL

Upcoming Issues May

Look At Spring Football

June

Recapping the Draft and NFL Free Agency

July

Tailgating Ideas

August NFL Preseason Sept

College Preseason

Oct-Dec Season Updates Jan

Where you can pick up an issue: Baton Rouge: City News

All-Louisiana Team

Feb Louisiana Players Entering The Draft Stand, Denham Springs: Double Click Solutions, Balloon Mania, Gonzales: March College Recruiting Ralphs Market, Slidell: Camille City Donuts, iSupply, Lacombe: Guidry Physical Therapy, Prarieview: Ralphs Market April NFL Draft www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 4

By: John Paul Guidry DPT CSCS TPI It is getting that time of year where we are getting back out in our yards, participating in outdoor recreational activities and sports and just being more active in general. Inevitably some of us will experience some acute onset aches and pains as a result of new or increased activity. Today I want to talk a little about managing these aches and pains so they do not turn into something more. I will add the disclaimer that this is not medical advice and if you feel like you have suffered a significant injury or have symptoms of a serious medical event, please go to your nearest ER or contact your doctor immediately. Some of you may have heard of the RICE or PRICE method for managing acute injury. PRICE stands for Protect Rest Ice Compression Elevation. A study by pretty straight forward, there are a few tips that I would add. Don't ice Bleakley, Glasgow and MacAuley 2012 in the British over a numb area or open wound. If the skin is numb, you won't notice if Journal of Sports Medicine has suggested these acyou're developing an ice burn and ice on an open wound could risk an ronyms need updating and have recommended usinfection. Be wary of ice burns – don't apply ice directly to the skin, wrap ing the acronym POLICE. POLICE stands for Protect an ice pack in a clean, damp towel before applying. Avoid prolonged exOptimal Loading Ice Compression Elevation, and this posure to ice, 10-20 minutes is usually adequate and be careful applying seems to be a better way to manage acute pain and the ice with too much pressure (e.g. resting your leg on the ice bag). A injury. good plan is to ice for 10-20 minutes a few times a day for the first week Protection can come in many forms such as deafter injury if needed and stop if increased swelling or pain are noted creased loading, utilizing assistive devices such as with icing. As for compression, make sure you do not wrap too tight encrutches, cane, walker, boot or cast etc. These are suring there is good circulation distal to the wrap. Elevation can also be to be used in the very early stages after injury. As an effective way to help reduce swelling after an acute injury. The goals for optimal loading, I will refer you to Tom Goom in of this method are to initially reduce pain and inflammation and to prohis recent article “Acute Injury Management” on gress back to activity as soon as tolerable all while respecting the normal www.running-physio.com: healing process. As always if you utilize these techniques and things do “Why replace rest with “optimal loading”? While not get better or they get worse, do not waste time seeking a consult rest may be helpful in the very short term, continwith a qualified medical professional as soon as you need. As always, if ued rest may lead to deconditioning of the tissues – we can be of service at Guidry Physical Therapy, please feel free to conjoint stiffness, muscle weakness and tightness and tact us at 985.882.8427 or Johnpaul@guidrypt.com. Thank you. reduced proprioception (control and balance). Optimal loading will stimulate the healing process as bone, tendon, ligament and muscle all require some loading to stimulate healing. The right amount of activity can help manage swelling. The key word here is optimal. In some cases optimal loading may be no loading. Unstable fractures, complete tendon ruptures etc. are unlikely to benefit www.guidrypt.com from loading and may require casting, bracing or surgical repair. There is no recipe for John Paul Guidry DPT, CSCS JohnPaul@guidrypt.com this, each situation needs to be managed 61700 Hwy 434 Unit D Phone (985) 882-8427 based on the person and their injury and Lacombe, La 70445 Fax (985) 882-8429 usually under the guidance of a health professional.” While ice, compression and elevation are www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Louisiana Is Third in College Recruits in D1 Football By: Coach Andy Bryson

In the face of adversity we as humans do one of two things. Some of us hide and hope that it just passes by and others stand and face it. Everywhere I have coached before I tell my story to how football is like life. You are faced with your opponent who sole mission is to stop you of winning. Like life, which we all face adversity at some point, we either face it head on, or we hide. Louisiana is ranked towards the bottom nationally of every educational statistic. Why is that? Is it that we do not spend enough money? Actually I read one report by the National Center for Educational Statistics that says Louisiana ranks 20th nationally with the amount of money spent in education. Do we have just bad teachers then? I wouldn’t think so. I think our teachers work very hard. So what can it be? I feel that we do not hire enough coaches. As a coach, it is our job to encourage and motivate young men and women to do their best while giving guidance. With Louisiana being an agriculture state, the culture of our youth is to quit school and go to work after 16. Not saying that is a bad thing, but with agriculture job loss on the rise, we are setting our

youth up for failure. So by hiring more coaches, we could see a rise in our academics. So what does this have to do with Louisiana being third nationally in recruiting to DI schools? Well if our state’s dropout rate, and failure rate wasn’t so high, this state could be number one in recruiting. Louisiana is highly recruited because we have some the best talent in the country. Our weather here allows our athletes to train year round wile other states cower inside during cold weather, our kids are working out and being coached. I have spoken to a number of teachers when I was recruiting, and almost in every case where a student was just outside the GPA range of a 2.5, the number one comment was that if they had turned in their homework, they would have a full letter grade difference. The NCAA requires that every athlete must have a 2.5 Core GPA and a 19 ACT score to be eligible to play DI sports. That is a 2.5 GPA in math, history, science, and English. In DI FBS, you must have a 2.5 in the top 16 core classes. You can substitute your not so good classes for electives as long as they are part of the core curriculum.

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So how do we solve the problem you ask? Well, the first thing I suggest is college trained coaches, committed, professional, caring coaches. What do I mean by college trained coaches? I mean people who have gotten their degree in coaching and have experience in college level football. Young men do better with male role models who take an active interest in their lives. Young men who receive the benefits of this concentrated mentoring from a male in the community finish more homework, feel more supported, and are less likely to get into trouble with drugs or gangs. Now some might argue that any caring male would do the trick in young men’s lives however nothing could be further from the truth. Without the knowledge and training that professional coaches receive amateur coaches/mentors often do more harm than good by not knowing what advice/ information they should give young athletes. Find this hard to believe, lets look at an example. A typical high school football player gets mentored by his amateur coach to take certain classes , however , the classes are not the correct ones to take the place of a poor grade in the core curriculum and the student is not able to get into the college he wants because there is no way to round out his GPA. This same student who might be borderline for some DII or DIII schools now has to be looked at based solely on talent. Now while his well meaning amateur coach has been training this player for three years and has been doing the best that he can, the player has likely been taught incorrect starts and stances and poor footwork/handwork. How likely is this student to make it to the next level now? Well if they are just a freak athlete or know the right people maybe, but honestly they are not going to get what they could have achieved with a competent and professional coach. This last season alone, I had a 6’7” 320 lb left tackle, 4 year starter, who could have played DI football at any school in the country. He was a good, strong, hard working kid who played for me in the All American Bowl Game. However his coaches advised him not to take classes that could have helped him to get into a college. Instead he was expected to sign into a junior college. At this time he ineligible due to grades to play college football without playing at a junior college. This is just a shame, because this player is a talented young athlete. Now not every situation is the amateur coach’s fault, nor do I look down on those who selflessly step up to make a difference in young men’s lives. However, If there were more trained coaches there would be a greater knowledge sharing in the state. Just by having more quality information out there the overall quality of coaching across the state would improve dramatically.

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NFL draft data from 2016. There were 253 draft picks in that year’s draft, 251 of whom were former NCAA players. NCAA to Major Pro figure calculated using these data. NCAA divisional breakdown of the 251 NCAA players selected in the 2016 NFL draft: Division I FBS (228), Division I FCS (20), Division II (3). The five football conferences with autonomous governance accounted for 189 of the 251 NCAA draft picks (SEC=51, Big Ten=47, ACC=33 [includes Notre Dame], Pac-12=32, Big 12=26). Data on Arena League and Canadian Football League opportunities were collected by NCAA staff via rosters on each organization’s website (sources: cfl.ca and arenafootball.com) in March 2017. Due to the timing of each league’s season, the 2015 draft cohort was used to estimate unique playing opportunities in the Arena League, while the 2016 draft cohort was used to track CFL rookies. It was determined that an additional 57 former NCAA student-athletes from those draft cohorts were listed on a roster (28 in the CFL, 29 in the Arena League). Across these two leagues, there were 29 former Division I FBS players, 14 from Division I FCS, 13 from Division II and 1 from Division III. These numbers were combined with the NFL draftees to calculate an NCAA to Total Professional opportunities proportion (calculated as [251 + 57] /16,369). We estimate that 3.9% of draft-eligible Division I players were chosen in the 2016 NFL draft (248 / 6,307). Limiting this calculation to subdivision, 6.7% of FBS players were estimated to be drafted (228 / 3,404), as compared to 0.7% of FCS players (20 / 2,902). Narrowing further to the five Division I conferences with autonomous governance (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12 and SEC), we estimate that 11% were drafted (189 / 1,747). Accounting for Arena League and CFL opportunities, the NCAA to Total Professional figures are estimated as 4.6% for Division I ([248 + 43] / 6,307), 7.4% for FBS ([222 + 29] / 3,404) and 12% for the five autonomous conferences ([189+ 19] / 1,747). -(Information courtesy NFL )

In a time when Louisiana is always in last place for anything good, here is something we can hang our hat on. Third in DI recruiting and first with guys in the NFL. What does this do for the future on Louisiana football? Well for one, this will change the culture of communities as well as boost the economy of our state. Even if our young men do not make an NFL roster, they still will graduate college with a degree and come home to their hometown as a hometown hero. They still can get good jobs and help others in their community reach for the stars. With so much going on in our state, a little good can go a long way. This is why I feel that if we can motivate our youth by hiring trained college coaches to teach our youth and help develop them into productive members of society, this state will rise out of the ashes and become a very prosperous state. Money is not the answer for this states issues, rather a change in mindset.

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Spring Football

By: Coach Andy Bryson

LGF visited Louisiana College this spring several times. I met

Shed Davis last year was an all conference receiver as well as an All-American. I would say that last year he was the fourth best receiver in the state. Only behind Trent Taylor, LC has several prospects that should be interesting to watch this Carlos Henderson, and Chad Williams. All three were drafted between the third and fifth rounds in this years draft. upcoming season. “Ordel Ledet Jr has really taken this years workouts seriously and has gained 10-15 pounds of muscle and Going into his senior year, I would say he has a chance to be this states top receiver and could be a late round draft pick played like a freak,” said coach Charles. “Last year he battled in next years draft. Before you ask, yes DIII players do get injuries, and he decided to take the offseason workouts more drafted. Ali Marpet was a second round pick for the Tampa seriously to avoid injuries this fall.” Bay Bucs in 2015 form Hobart University in New York. If Cade Maxwell, senior defensive end and defensive MVP said, Shed continues on his current path, then he could be draft“this was the best defensive spring yet that I have seen.” ed. He will need to continue to be a leader on and off the field as well as continue to make big plays. with coach Justin Charles and he said, “ We had a great spring workout this year, I am excited about this fall.”

Longtime head coach Dennis Dunn has resigned and moved on to be the new Head Coach for Pineville High School. Defensive coordinator Justin Charles has picked up the rains as the new head coach and will continue to carry the torch of the success at LC. Coach Charles stated several times that he is really excited about the freshman class for 2017. With the current guys on the roster, this team has so much potential to return to the playoffs . If the guys stay the course this summer and return to camp in August in shape ready to play, this could be a very good football team. "That first game is definitely the most important game," Charles said. "Not just because it's the next one on our schedule but because we want to make sure we come out and make sure we understand who we are. Playing a new opponent that we haven't played before and on that is a very good is going to prepare us for our conference schedule." To order your tickets or for more information, contact Reni Mason, Associate Athletic Director. Call (318) 487-7503.

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SR defensive end Cade Maxwell forces a sack fumble against McMurry University. Cade Maxwell was defensive MVP and an AllConference player in 2016.

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Spring Football By: Coach Andy Bryson

The Tigers have a lot to be excited about for the 2017 season. The Tiger defense is nothing short of amazing in itself. “I First under new head coach Ed Orgeron, the players have shown overwhelming support for both the coach and the program. Coach Orgeron’s first move as the man in charge was to hire an exciting offensive coordinator. So he hired the one man that beat the 2016 national champions, Matt Canada, with his offence. And finally, coach Orgeron brings in a top 5 recruiting class. All of these things should make Tiger fans really excited.

thought the defense under (defensive coordinator) Dave Aranda did a tremendous job. Guys were tackling and running around, and they were very physical. We didn’t show anything on the kicking game. We have a new kicking scheme, and I didn’t want to show anything that (other teams) don’t know about. That’s the reason we didn’t line up with a kickoff team, a kickoff return team or a punt formation. Other than that, I was really pleased with the 15 days (of practice). Our guys have great energy and a great mindset. We need to get better. We are not ready to play a football game yet, and we consider this preseason game number one. As we all know, there are a lot of things to correct after preseason game number one.”

This spring coach Canada started the installs of his super offense, and we got a little taste during the spring game. When asked about the offense for the spring game, coach Orgeron said, “We talked about that extensively. There is a lot of stuff that Matt (Canada) did not do. We wanted to be 50-50 tonight. 50 percent run, 50 percent pass I asked him to do that and he did it. We knew we had to work on our passing game. There are With star defensive end/outside linebacker Arden Key missing this spring this spring due to personal issues, the defense a lot of things he did not show, but most of the stuff he did show people have his film from Pittsburgh.” Coach Orgeron was asked his thoughts of the spring game, “On to the scrimmage, it was the defense’s night. The offense did a tremendous job all spring, but tonight was the defense’s night. I don’t think that we played very well on offense. I know Coach (Matt) Canada is a little disappointed in the performance, but I have confidence that we are going to get better. The quarterback competition is open, and it is going to stay open until somebody proves they are our No. 1 quarterback.” Leonard Fournette was drafted fourth overall in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jags, so his little brother whom is following in his brothers footsteps has big shoes to fill. Being in the shadow of an older sibling must be tough, but now that Leonard is in the NFL, it is time for Lanard to show us what he has. In the spring game he ran the ball really well while scoring a touchdown. Coach Orgeron said, “I thought (running back) Lanard Fournette ran the ball well tonight. I thought he showed some flashes, and he is getting very well coached under (running backs coach) Tommie Robinson.”

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never missed a step. You could tell that the leader of the defensive line was gone, but his teammates picked up the challenge and still dominated. Corners Kevin Toliver and Donte Jackson may, at the time being be the starters then you put in the mix of an Andraez “Greedy” Williams. “I thought they played good tonight. Kevin Toliver has had a good spring. Greedy is doing an excellent job at cornerback. Donte (Jackson) is going to be an excellent cornerback. One of those guys is going to have to play nickel for us. One of those freshmen may play nickel for us, like a guy like Kary Vincent. We have a great class coming in. I cannot wait to put this team together. (Coach Orgeron)” With all the talent that LSU has, I feel that they could have two Heisman candidates this fall. Darius Guice and whoever plays quarterback. DJ Chark is an exceptional receiver with elite speed who is entering his senior year. Last season he lead the team in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. With the offence that Matt Canada runs, the slogan this year will be, let them load the box. So when those safeties have to start respecting LSU passing game, that will lead to more big plays by Guice. In this new spread offence, Guice could have 2,000+ yards rushing while Etling could have 3,000+ passing yards. While it may be a stretch for any LSU QB to be in consideration for the Heisman, I just wouldn’t count them out. Even if an LSU QB throws anywhere around 3,000 yards, than that means LSU had an undefeated season. So is it possible, the short answer is yes. I will not be surprised if you see LSU 13-0 in December with Guice and Etling in the final three in voting. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Spring Football By: Editor, Kristen Bryson

When Coach Fritz discussed Banksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; performance he noted, "He started off a little slow, but I thought he really played well in the two-minute drills. The tough part for him is that in a controlled scrimmage, you can't get away from guys and run around. I thought he did some things that were good, but he made some plays that he'd like to have back. He's had an excellent spring. He has a good work ethic. He's a gym rat and the kind of guy who puts in all his effort. He started nine or 10 games at [Independence Community College] and he was at Kansas State, so he's been in a college system and has a lot of experience. There's a big difference between recruits from high school and recruits from junior college - its experience. The biggest challenge (for Banks) is learning our system. The play-calling, verbiage, tempo. Everything is entirely new for him, and that'd be a challenge for anyone coming in."

The Tulane Spring Game consisted of a planned workout with a 38 play scripted scrimmage and 25 play two minute drill session pitting the offense versus defense. They also went through plays in special teams with field goals, punts, and kickoff returns. During the game no score was kept and there was no live tackling in order to prevent injuries.

Overall the Spring Game was a successful showcase for the team as a whole. Head Coach Willie Fritz seemed Defensively the Green wave showcased sophomore linebacker Lawrence Graham who recorded with four tackles as well as Will confident that the team will be competitive this season. He also felt that the team was farther along than they were last Harper who got an interception. Redshirt nickelback Jarrod season. Franklin had a 34 yard fumble recovery. In his assessment of the defenseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance Coach Willie Fritz commented, "I thought the defense dominated for the first 18 plays. [The defense] produced a good pass rush and didn't provide a pocket for the quarterbacks." On the other side of the ball, offense featured the junior quarterback Jonathan Banks completed five passes for 65 yards as well as redshirt junior quarterback Glen Cuiellete who connected on four passes for 62 yards. In the run game, senior running back Dontrell Hilliard scored the only touchdown on a six yard run. Hilliard carried the ball four times for 19 yards. Wide receiver Jacob Robertson Jr. and Charles Jones II each had three receptions with Jones having the longest catch of the day (30 yards) from Cuiellette. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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If you buy a yearly subscription, you will receive this free 8x10 photo of LSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new head coach Ed Orgeron

Louisiana Gridiron Football is all about Louisiana football written by coaches and players. We strive to provide a positive media coverage for all 12 college teams in Louisiana. This year we have featured interviews with Ladarius Webb (All-Pro Corner with the Baltimore Ravens), Harry Coleman (LSU National Champion and Super Bowl Champ with the New Orleans Saints), Ryan Ross (current running back from McNeese State), Chase Fourcade (current Quarterback for Nicholls State), and many more. We also feature exclusive college game day photos from around the state. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out on this one-of-a-kind magazine. Order your subscription today!

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Spring Football By: Editor, Kristen Bryson

If you want to see what a devoted fan base looks like, you need go no further than Grambling State University. These fans got a peek at what the fall will look like during the annual Black and gold Game at Grambling State University. The final score was an 18 to 18 tie. Eddie Robinson Memorial Stadium was crowded with enthusiastic fans during this annual scrimmage. Players and team prospects talked with coaches and enjoyed barbecued grilled just for them while the World Famed Tiger Marching Band played on the football practice field before the match began. Unlike some schools where the spring game is the only event on that day, Grambling had the spring game as a part of the university’s Sports Fest which included a day of football, softball, and a baseball double-header.

challenges and played like champions. “We have to continue to develop and continue to grow,” said Fobbs. “We are a work in progress. We still have pieces to add to the puzzle, but we’re a lot further ahead at this point than we were last spring.” Additionally he said he saw a lot of good plays, especially from quarterback Devante Kincade who was in great form as well as receiver Devon Lindsey. “Kincade continued the type of dominance that he’s always had,” said Fobbs. “It’s no secret that Kincade is a great player. That’s why we went after him. He knows how to play the game.”

If you haven’t heard of Devante Kincade you soon will. He At the start of the game Head Coach Broderick Fobbs and his coach- has been turning heads and getting some major interest ing staff broke the team into two groups and the two sub-teams who since he started with Grambling. Kincade is a 22 year old then had warm-ups and practice drills. The set up of the game was senior majoring in criminal justice from Dallas, Texas. He four shortened quarters for Black versus Gold. was quoted as being excited to be in this year’s spring game because he had been forced to miss last year’s spring After the game Fobbs said that he learned a lot from the spring game. In addition it gave him an opportunity to see his game. Specifically he noted that lots of his men stepped up to teammates in action in a real life situation in front of a raucous crowd. “I’m looking forward to playing with a lot of the new guys. They played an amazing game,” said Lindsey a 20 year old sophomore from Little Rock, Arkansas. He had a good game but still claimed being frustrated during the game saying, “I was thinking about what I could’ve done versus what actually happened. I plan on developing that for the upcoming season, we played pretty well, and I'm proud of how we played." In the 2016 HBCU National Championship, the Southwestern Athletic Conference, as well as the last season the GMen won out and dominated the competition. Head coach Broderick Fobbs has been clear that he wants to have another impressive season. The Spring Game was the start of looking to build on the foundation the G-Men started last year. If you haven’t gotten your season tickets now is the time. Get in on this winning season in the making now and don’t miss out. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

McNeese State QB James Tabary

By: Coach Andy Bryson

James Tabary Posted one of the greatest seasons in school history as a quarterback after he passed for 3,036 yards - the secondmost in school history, while setting new single-season school records for most completions (249) and pass attempts (415). He set a school record for most 300-yard passing games in a season (4) and tied a school mark with five TD passes in a game, that coming against Sam Houston State. His 23 touchdown passes during the year ranks as the 5th-most in school history. He completed 29 passes on 43 attempts for a season-high 384 yards, ranking as the second-most in a game in school history while the 29 completions ranks as the 3rd-most in a game. He attempted 49 passes against Stephen F. Austin, ranking as the 2nd-most in a game in McNeese history. James threw for 348 yards with 4 TDs against SFA. Tabary completed 27 of 44 passes for 376 yards and 2 scores vs. Nicholls and completed 25 of 46 for 357 yards and 5 TDs at Sam Houston State. His 3,036 passing yards ranks as the 10th most on the school's career list. We had an opportunity to sit down with James this past month to do an interview: How/when did you get into playing football? My father put me in tackle football at the age of 4, and forced me to play up with the 6 and 7 year olds because there was not a league at the age of 4 and to always have older and better competition. What do you love about the game? I love being around my team (my family), there is nothing better than being out there on a Saturday night with the guys you have gone to hell and back with through all the hard work. Not many athletes would say this, but I love criticism. It puts a fire in me to strive for perfection and mentally makes me better.

What is your favorite football moment in history? My favorite moment was beating Jesuit High School, our high school rival, for the first time in 6 years on a last second field goal. What is something you have overcome to get to where you are at today? Defeating all odds is what got me here today. Wasn’t always the fastest, strongest or tallest quarterback, and was always talked down upon that I wasn’t good enough using that as ambition is what got me to where I am. Why did you choose to play at McNeese? I chose McNeese because of football atmosphere here, the love the coaches gave me, and there is nothing better than football in Louisiana. What is it about McNeese State that you like? What I like about McNeese is the level of mentality that is expected every day, just the way McNeese plays football (passion, love, toughness, and fearless) is just so different than any other place. Through the history of McNeese State, you are expected to play at a higher standard than the man across from you, that’s what I love. What is something that you have learned from playing football? I have learned that winning requires teamwork, from peewee ball to the NFL, a game cannot be won based off of one person. In reality, if you can’t work with others that are on the same team as you, you will never be as successful as if you work with your team to the best of your ability.

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What is your major? Why did you choose that major? My major is Health and Human Performance. I chose this major because if the NFL doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work out, I want to become a coach or personal trainer. What are your plans for after college? My plan after college is to go pro in the NFL, my fall back plan is to become a coach at the college level or become a personal trainer working with quarterbacks. What is some advice you would give to future recruits? My advice is to never go to a college based off the name, go to a college where you fit the system and you can see yourself playing there. The size of the school does not matter, if you are good enough, the NFL WILL find you. What is your goal in the 2017 season? My goal in 2017 is to lead my team to a National Championship, and to be the best that I can be for my team at all times.

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During the annual Blue-Gold Spring Game at McNeese there were two famous guest coaches, Tommy Tate and Bobby Keasler. Keasler was the coach for the Gold Team and Tate was the coach for the Blue Team. The Gold team came back from behind to win the day. During this spring game, coach Lance Guidry said "I thought James (Tabary) threw the ball well .â&#x20AC;? As starting quarterback for the Gold Team at the Spring Game, James Tabary, completed 5 out of 13 passes for 26 yards. However he did throw an interception after his pass in the flats got tipped (by Micah Udeh). Other players of note on the Gold Team included Orgeron (5 of 9 for 71 yards) and Tyler Gaspard (2 for 5 with 17 yards). Additionally Parker Orgeron led all receivers with 5 catches for 88 yards. Of these plays, Orgeron, had a 64 yard catch and run from

Lissard early in the second half that facilitated a 2 yard touchdown catch by Darious Crawley to give the Blue a 13-0 lead. Other accolades from the game included the game MVP which came from the Gold Team in the form of running back Justin Pratt. During the course of the game Pratt led all rushers with 89 yard on seven carries including a 61 yard sprint up the middle, breaking several tackles, and scoring the winning touchdown for Gold. The coaching staff was pleased with the Cowboysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; performance, even though they felt the defense did better at the spring game. Defense on both sides ruled the day during most of the game. There were 14 sacks between the 2 teams. "I thought it would be hard for the offense," said head coach Lance Guidry who stayed behind the offenses on the field to whistle sacks on the quarterbacks without them taking any hits. "The defenses had a lot of pressure and stopped the run." www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Spring Football By: Andy Bryson

Defense saved the day for the Red team at the annual Spring game this year. After two early touchdown passes got things moving for the offense of the White team, the defenses took over the rest of the day including an impressive and gamechanging interception in the final minutes.

On the Red side of the ball defense, Nicholls recorded 5 tackles for a loss including one sack on Brandon Fontenot. In addition to the interception Poindexter recovered a muffed punt in the second quarter.

On the offensive side of the ball the Red team had Charles When the White team was holding a small lead (10-7) in the Brooks who found Damion Jeanpiere for a 63 yard touchfourth quarter, the White defense came up with a big play in the down. Not to be outdone the White team offense, Fourcade red zone when Jonavon Lewis intercepted a pass at the 3 yard threw a touchdown to Christian Booker. Of all the players in line to keep Red from tying or taking the lead. However just the game, Booker led all receivers with 3 catches for 71 three plays later, the Red teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anfernee Poindexter stepped in yards. front of Chase Fourcade pass at the 31 yard line and returned it David McKey capped the scoring in the first with a 26-yard all the way to the 1. This set up a beautiful 1 yard touchdown field goal to put White up 10-7.The defenses pitched a shut run by Kyran Irvin with 1:50 remaining. out the rest of the way before Irvin scored the go-ahead The Red defense forced a turnover on downs before White used touchdown for Red in the final minutes. all three timeouts to get the ball back with 55 seconds to go. Red was led by Irvin with 35 yards rushing on 10 carries, Then starting from their own 29 yard line, Fourcade was able to while Brooks was 4 out of 12 passing with a touchdown and lead White to a first down before a Hail Mary into the end zone three interceptions. White on the other hand was led on on the final play was batted down by Red defense to preserve offense by Donnell Adair with 9 carries for 39 yards, and the victory. At the end of the day, Red won in a 14-10 victory. Fourcade completed the game with 10 out of 25 with one During the course of the game White defense came up with touchdown and one interception. Booker was joined by three interceptions and two sacks, and was lead in tackles by Aaron McKenney with three catches and totaled 27 yards. Corey Abraham with 6 total. Lewis, Jai Knight, and Darren Evans The Colonels open the 2017 season on Thursday, Aug. 31 each had pick for the White team. Allen Pittman and Terrell Enagainst rival McNeese. Season tickets are available by calling calade were also credited with sacks during the game. the Nicholls Athletics Ticket Office at 985-448-4790.

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Spring Football By: Editor, Kristen Bryson

Southern University running back Lenard Tillery’s stellar 2016 season continues to gain him national attention. The Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHOF) announced Wednesday four Finalists for the inaugural Black College Football Player of the Year Award. It will be presented annually to the most outstanding football player who comes from a Historically Black College & University (HBCU) and embodies the rich tradition of athletic excellence and integrity. TIllery is a senior from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He is 5’10” and 200 lbs with 1,665 rushing yards putting him 3rd in the FCS only behind Khalid Abdullah of James Madison University and Chase Edmonds of Fordham University. As a redshirt senior, Tillery led the Southwestern Athletic Conference in rushing yards (1,665), rushing touchdowns (13), allpurpose yards (1,972) and total touchdowns (15). He became

the SWAC’s all-time leading rusher this season during Southern’s 41-34 road win at Alcorn State, surpassing Jackson State’s Destry Wright. Tillery, who is a two-time AllSWAC 1st Team selection and two-time leader in rushing yards. His career high in rushing was on Nov. 12 at Prairie View A&M when he recorded 245 yards. If you are not familiar with this impressive Southern Player, you are truly missing out. As his career with the Southern Jaguars comes to a close Tillery, has amassed 4,857 career rushing yards and 45 touchdowns. He also is the only running back in program history to rush for over 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons. Tillery broke Odie Posey’s 70 year old record for rushing in a single season. Tillery will join other contenders including North Carolina Central University QB Malcolm Bell, North Carolina A&T University RB Tarik Cohen and Grambling State University QB DeVante Kincade. Although during the season Grambling and Southern have a strong rivalry, both schools are duly honored to be a part of this new award program. The winner of the 2016 Black College Football Player of the Year Award will be announced on February 25, 2017 at the Eighth Annual Black College Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia. The winner will be presented with the Deacon Jones Trophy, named in honor of the football legend and inaugural BCFHOF inductee. “Players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities have had a tremendous impact on the game of football,” noted Black College Football Hall of Fame founder and 2012 inductee James Harris. “This award will allow us to highlight the great student athletes from today’s HBCUs and recognize them in front of the legends that paved the way.”

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Spring Football

By: Coach Andy Bryson

On April 8th, La Tech hosted their annual spring game. "There was some great work done out here today," head coach Skip Holtz said about the spring game. "This was a great evaluation putting guys in game-like situations just to see how they would respond. I thought some guys did some really good things today. I thought the crowd was great. I appreciate everybody coming out and it was a beautiful day for it. We still have a long way to go, but I really like the attitude, the energy and the way they are This made the second year that three former La Tech Bullplaying together." dogs were drafted. Carlos Henderson (3rd round), Trent Taylor (5th round), and Xavier Woods (6th round). LA Tech now "We talked about how when Trent Taylor and Carlos Henderson were gone, somebody has to step up and pick up that slack," has more NFL draft picks (10) since 2013 than any other team in Conference USA. Holtz said of the performance of the receivers on April 8th. "I thought Marlon Watts made some big plays out there today. I thought Javonte Woodard went up in some 1-on-1 situations and came down with some balls. Teddy Veal made a bunch of catches and Alfred Smith did a good job. Marcus Gaines made some catches today, so I think it is going to be much more by committee with a group of wide receivers rather than have just one or two targeted like the last couple of seasons."

This offseason, head coach Skip Holtz has agreed in principle to a five-year, $3.5 million contract extension with La Tech. Holtz has elevated the Bulldog football program to new heights in the Football Bowl Subdivision with multiple appearances in the Conference USA title game and three straight bowl victories. Tech is one of only four FBS teams to record 9 or more wins and a bowl game victory for three straight seasons, joining reigning national champion Clemson, Wisconsin and Utah. "Skip's impact on and contributions to our football program have been exceptional," said Tech President Les Guice. "His leadership and mentorship of our student-athletes, and the class with which he has represented our university is a source of pride for all of our fans and friends. I am excited to know that he and his family will remain a part of the Tech Family for years to come. To check out more on the Bulldogs in 2017, order your tickets at the LA Tech Ticket Office. They are open Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Fans can purchase tickets to Louisiana Tech football games in the office, over the phone at (318) 257-3631, through email, or online. For any questions, please contact the LA Tech Ticket Office.

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Spring Football

By: Coach Andy Bryson

I visited the Lions during spring practice and one thing I

"Roberts said. "We really saw some of our young men grow up during this spring camp. We have to carry that positive picked up is that coach Roberts treats every practice including spring practice as if they are preparing for a National Champion- attitude into the weight room this offseason and all the way ship. I spoke to coach Roberts following the practice and he said, into fall camp." “I run an intense practice to develop a high level of competition. During the annual spring game, the Gold team, made up the Iron sharpens iron.” SLU offense and specialists, picked up a 44-11 victory over I noticed that the competition was truly intense at every position during practice. Knowing from experience from when I was at SLU in 2013, the environment at SLU feels like it did when they won the Southland Conference for the first time in over 30 years. Coach Roberts and staff committed to a new season and the guys seam to have bought in. Forgotten is last season when they missed the playoffs by one game.

the Green team, comprised of the Southeastern defense. Gold was awarded points in the traditional way, as well as receiving points for first downs and big plays (rushes of 12 or more yards and passes of 16 yards or more). The Green side received points for turnovers, three-and-outs and defensive stops.

On the offensive side of the ball, a balanced SLU offense accumulated 418 yards – 214 rushing, 204 passing – in the Southeastern head coach Ron Roberts has been continuously proud of the progress his team has made during spring practice. approximately 80-play scrimmage. Junior Donovan Isom (5for-10, 106 yards), sophomore Lorenzo Nunez (3-for-10, 64 But for the Lions' sixth-year head coach, it's the progress made off the field that he expects to pay dividends in 2017. “I've really yards) and sophomore Chandler Eiland (2-for-9, 34 yards) split time under center for the Lions. been pleased with our team's attitude throughout the spring, Senior Ross Foreman led the Lions with three catches for 45 yards, along with junior Joriah Tolbert (2-50). Junior Jake Ingraffia hauled the long pass of the day – a 39-yard bomb from Isom – late in the fourth quarter. Senior running back Eugene Bethea rushed nine times for a team-high 62 yards and one touchdown. Junior Darren Johnson added 43 yards on 10 carries, while Nunez rushed for a 16-yard touchdown. The Lion offensive line pass protected well all game, holding the SLU defense without a sack. On the defensive side, junior linebacker Sean Clavelle led SLU with seven tackles. Senior linebacker Lee Spight added five tackles and a forced fumble that was recovered by sophomore defensive lineman Ron Cherry. Junior linebacker Ja'Hmal Macklin added an interception of an Eiland pass. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Spring Football By: Editor, Kristen Bryson

break up, a quarterback hurry, and five tackles. When asked about how he felt about the award he said, “It means a lot to Game, known at Northwestern State University as the Delaney Bowl, was productive and competitive. "The game me because of the name Joe Delaney but my teammates are the backed up the way spring has gone. It's been very competi- real MVPs. This is the best spring since I’ve been here. We come to work every day and get better.” tive every day," said fifth-year head coach Jay Thomas. "I would say it's been the best spring practice since I've been Impressive plays weren’t restricted to Lyn Clark, Clay Holgorsen, here." and Cameron Lazare during the Delaney Bowl. LSU transfer Jazz

Head Coach Jay Thomas felt confident that the Spring

During the course of the game, Clay Holgorsen, a junior college transfer, won the honor of the Delaney Bowl offensive Most Valuable Player honor. He recorded 18 out of 22 for a total of 154 yards and two touchdowns. While he was one of three quarterbacks during the game, the overall offensive force produced 34 of 52 for 366 yards and three touchdowns. Holgorsen’s most impressive play of the night was connection with Cameron Lazare for a six yard game winning touchdown pass on a fade route with only 12 seconds left on the clock. Thanks to his efforts the White team won a 17 to 14 victory. Not content to accumulate all the praise for himself Holgorsen bragged on his teammates as well. The Demons added 142 yards rushing during 30 carries for a total offense output of 508 yards on 82 plays only giving up one fumble. "We really accomplished a lot today on offense," Holgorsen praised. "The O-line did an amazing job. We couldn't have gone down and won the game if it wasn't for the O-line. The receivers ran the right routes, and the running backs ran hard."

Ferguson caught a 12 yard touchdown pass for the Purple team and J.D. Almond led a 41 yard drive that produced a field goal for Eric Piccione. Among the coaching staff the feelings were pretty positive about today. The new offensive coordinator Kyle Manley commented, “Some hit and miss today. We lost a fumble that ended a good drive, and we had some key drops, but we also had some good drives where we punched it in. Those guys on defense are going some really good stuff so it was a really good challenge all spring and again today.” On the defensive staff side the coaching staff, the new defensive coordinator Brad Laird noted, “It was a good day. It came down to the last series. I thought both teams played extremely hard. I was proud of the guys for coming out and finishing some things they’ve done in 14 practices.” Overall the 28th Annual Delaney Bowl was a stunning success for the Demons and fans should be looking forward to an action packed season. Check out the school website for information about getting your season tickets today. Fork ‘em demons!

On the defensive side of the ball, senior end Lyn Clark was the Delaney bowl Defensive MVP award. His most impressive plays were an interception, a fumble recovery, a pass

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Spring Football By: Editor, Kristen Bryson

At the tail end of the spring practice season for 2017 ULM hosted its annual Maroon-Gold Spring game inside the JPS Field at Malone Stadium. The match was offense against defense and was a prime opportunity to see their favorite team one last time before fall camp starts. Perhaps most impressive about the game was the throwing game as implemented by Caleb Evans and featuring three touchdowns. Of his touchdown passes Evans found Brian Williams and Marcus Green. Though both receivers are impressive , Marcus Green fought off a defender in his reception and ran fifty yards to make the touch down. On the other side of the offense the running game was primarily led by Austin Vaughn, who had 45 yards on the ground spread across the seven carries during the game. Four of the five running backs who played in the spring game managed 24 or more during the game.

ence when they open the season (Memphis). “It’s a really good schedule and it’s about as tough as you can have with the non-conference games, playing the Power Five schools and both Memphis and Southern Miss,” head coach Matt Viator reported. “We are excited to get Southern Miss here at home in what should be a really good game for our fans, and then Memphis is an easy travel game to get to.” “The biggest difference in the Sun Belt schedule for us will be playing Lafayette in the first game instead of ending the season and also the fact that we won’t play Georgia Southern but pick up Coastal Carolina. All in all, it’s flipping the home and away games, and it’s going to be a very good and demanding schedule.”

Defense held their own and featured several up and coming players. Kerry Starks the previous redshirt-freshman had an impressive day including three tackles, a pair of sacks, and a forced fumble in the contest. Senior Juwan Offray managed one interception for a return of 59 yards for a touchdown. Also Luke Hedrick (sophomore) also managed a picked off pass. The defense appeared to be cohesive and strong, and will likely be a force to be reckoned with this season. Upcoming next for ULM is the 2017 fall camp. More information about ULM’s 2017 schedule and opponents can be found here. Season tickets for the 2017 season are on sale now and can be purchased online at this link or by calling the ULM Ticket Office at 342-HAWK. 2017 Football Schedule for Warhawks: It’s finally here! The 2017 Warhawk football schedule has been released. The list of games includes five games at home (JPS Field at Malone Stadium) along with a national television audi www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

In addition to other changes, the Warhawks utilize timing of the home games so that the Warhawks will go no more than two straight weeks on the road before a home contest. This was accomplished in response to last season when ULM spent a full month away from home between the season opener and their game against Idaho. This is a great change, because it will alleviate players travel fatigue as well as help to keep them more caught up in their coursework. “That’s going to be great. In late October we have the backto-back road games, but that is different from last season. It’s great in a sense that our home games are better spaced out and we won’t go long periods without playing at home in front of our fans.”

The 2017 season will start at Memphis with a live television broadcast. This will only be the third time these two teams have played to date. After the Warhawks’ season opener they will travel to Florida State. It will only be the second time that they will face this particular opponent. Week three will be at home and feature a match against Southern Miss. There have been four prior meetings for these two teams however none have been played post 1993. The next week begins Sun Belt Conference play with a trip to Lafayette to take on the Ragin’ Cajuns . They will then return home to play Costal Carolina. Next the Warhawks play Texas State (away), South Alabama (away), and Idaho (away). Next the ULM players will play the Appalachian State (home) , and Auburn (home), Arkansas State (home). Season tickets for the 2017 season will go on sale next week. Get yours now!

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Spring Football By: Editor, Kristen Bryson

The Spring game was a glowing success for the University of Louisiana Ragin Cajuns. Jordan Davis completed 11 of 14 passes for 174 yards and one touchdown. Furthermore additional touchdowns were scored by Trey Ragas, Dion Ray, and Jordan Wright which contributed to the overall victory for the Red team. Not to be outdone Jarrod Jackson who played for the White team caught four passes for 50 yards and one touchdown as the teams played in the first half of the spring game. Interestingly enough the second half of the spring game involved a special alumni game featuring greats like Jake Delhomme, Michael Desormeaux. An additional special moment took place when a 14 year old Timothy Cotton who is a Stage 3 Lymphoma survivor and the son of the late Raginâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cajuns running back Kenyon Cotton scored on a designed 50 yard touchdown run to start the second quarter. This moment was one of many magical moments on this wonderful campus during spring training and the scrimmage. If you have never attended a Raginâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cajuns football game, I urge you to make this the season that you do. The fans and atmosphere surrounding this team is impressive. It is not too late to get your season tickets! Fans can renew their season tickets online at RaginCajuns.com using Account Manager. The season opener is Sept. 2 at Cajun Field against Southeastern Louisiana. Season tickets, beginning at $110, are available for purchase. Reserved and chair back seating is available for $135 per seat with the Family 5 Pack available for $405.