Louisiana Gridiron
Football
Getting To Know Tulane Quarterback, Justin McMillan Mid Seeason Updates For All 12 College Football Teams
Diamond In The Rough: Adam Purser Austin Jemison Bryce Fricke Cole Simon Legend Denier Aaron Benfield Keilon Brown
Nov 2018 Vol 4 Issue 11
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October 2018
Contents 8 LSU 10 La Tech 12 Northwestern St 14 Grambling 16 Louisiana College 18 Nicholls 20 McNeese State 22 Getting To Know Tulane Quarterback, Justin McMillan 28 Southern 30 Southeastern 32 ULM 34 UL 36 Diamond In The Rough 37 Adam Purser 38 Bryce Fricke 39 Austin Jemison 40 Cole Simon 41 Legend Denier 42 Aaron Benfield 43 Keilon Brown 6
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By Josh Sibley Overall Record 7-12(4-2)
On November 3rd LSU and “That Team That Wears
Red” will be in Death Valley, with what is shaping up to be a repeat of “The Game of the Century” part 3. The Tigers enter the contest with one of the most electrifying defenses they’ve had in years and three players already on end of season award watch lists in safety Grant Delpit, cornerback Greedy Williams, and linebacker Devin White. Coach Nick Saban was quoted as saying recently, “This will be a very challenging game for us,” and “They (LSU) have no weaknesses on defense.” LSU is currently leading the SEC in the turnover margin with +12, a stat they are looking to improve upon against Alabama on November 3rd. The sophomore safety Grant Delpit has been the biggest wildcard for the Tigers defense this year, playing all over the field in Coach Aranda’s defense. Being able to blitz from any area has given opposing quarterbacks and offensives coordinators nightmares. How do these two teams stack up you might ask? Surprisingly in favor of LSU! Call me crazy, but let me break this down for you. In years past Bama has had top flight defense posting in the top 5 by this time of the year. According to ESPN’s college football statistics, Bama ranks 35th overall in total defense, even with the schedule they’ve been playing. They’re giving up 309 yards per game and allowing 15.9 points per game. Now people will say those were garbage time scores, but a Nick Saban coached player is supposed to know what’s expected of him when they’re called upon. 8
Another difference in this year’s Bama squad versus previous years is the running game. It’s still good, but in previous years the running game was the strength of the offense. It would grind down defenses until the fourth quarter then put up 21 unanswered points to win the game. This year is totally different, they are relying heavily on the passing game and that is why I like LSU in this game. LSU matches up very well against the pass, having a bend but don’t break mentality. Currently the Tigers have 14 interceptions for the year and three of their defensive backs are listed in the top 100 for interceptions for the year. Grant Delpit is number one overall on that list with five interceptions so far this season.
If LSU can continue to maintain drives, while they may not come away with six every time they will get points off every drive. Consistent scoring even if it is through field goals will demoralize the Bama defense. This has proven effective against other opponents this season. The Mississippi State game is a prime example. They kept the drives extended and came away with points which exhausted the opposing defense and eventually won them the ball game. Another thing that increases LSU’s odds in the November 3rd game is special teams. LSU kicker Cole Tracy has been the go-to guy for the Tigers. He has been pretty much automatic from anywhere inside the 50 yard range, something that has been a sigh of relief for LSU fans. My prediction: At night, in Death Valley, I like the Tigers in a nail biter. On November 10th LSU faces off against Arkansas. The Razorbacks could be mounting a comeback after a win against Tulsa, but I don’t put too much stock in that thought. Unfortunately for the Razorbacks, starting quarterback Ty Story has barely a quarterback rating of 35, and running back Rakeem Boyd has 502 yards this season on 75 carries. And after a double digit loss to North Texas and a heartbreaker to Ole
Miss. I don’t think the Razorbacks have anything left in the tank for the Tigers. My prediction: LSU by 13+ November 17th the Rice Owls will be in Baton Rouge for LSU’s Senior Night. The Owls have not won a game since August when they beat Prairie View 31-28. Look for Coach O to be resting his starters by half time in preparation for the Texas A&M game. This one could get out of hand quickly, as the Tigers are favored handsomely in this matchup. My prediction: LSU by 24 The Tigers travel to Kyle Field for the final game of the season this year on November 23rd. With first year head coach Jimbo Fisher at the helm, the Aggies have gotten off to an impressive start. Losing a close one to Clemson by two. The Aggies are currently sitting in third in the SEC West behind Bama and LSU. This has become an interesting game for A&M and LSU fans, as the Tigers are the ONLY team in the West that the Aggies have failed to beat since joining the SEC back in 2012. This will be a close matchup for both teams but I like the Tigers in a shootout. My prediction: LSU by 4+
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By: Daila Weeks
Overall Record 5-2 (3-1) The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs out of Ruston, LA have had a standout season thus far. In the words of Head Coach Skip Holtz, “We say it every week. It is hard to win. It is nice to win.� The Bulldogs have had a vigorous schedule this year putting them up against offensively and defensively dominant teams such as LSU and Mississippi State. The month of November will continue the rigorous schedule for Louisiana Tech. To start off this month they play at Mississippi State on Saturday, November 3rd at 6:30 pm. This is followed by Rice on the 10th of November, and Southern Miss on the 17th. The month will be completed with the game against Western Kentucky on November 24th. The last 3 games this season against Rice, Southern Miss, and Western Kentucky are all very important CUSA conference match ups. So far this season the Bulldogs are 5-2 and 3-1 in conference. There have been many stand out players throughout this season with impressive stats. On offense, red shirt junior from Junction City, Arkansas, Jaqwis Dancy leads the team in rushing yards with 381 yards and loss of only 12. Dancy also has 5 touchdowns thus far this season. Red shirt junior quarterback out of Meridian, 10
Mississippi, J’Mar Smith has an overall passer rating of 127.47. He has thrown 142/244 with 1723 total yards and 11 touchdowns. On the receiving side of the offense, wide receiver Adrian Hardy out of Houston, Texas, has 579 yards for the season as well as 5 touchdowns. Overall this year on offense there have been 25 touchdowns and an average of 29 points scored by the Bulldogs each game. Offense has averaged 399.4 yards a game and totaled 2,796 throughout the year. On defense Linebacker Collin Scott, Houston, Texas native, has had 52 tackles, 21 solo and 31 assists. He leads the defense in number of tackles. Safety James Jackson from Haynesville, Louisiana, has 24 solo tackles and 15 assists to total 39 for the season. Jackson also has 1 interception. Corner back L’Jarius Sneed, junior from Minden, Louisiana, leads the defense in interceptions with 2 so far. Sneed also has 24 solo and 12 assisted tackles for a total of 36.
You can expect these next 4 games to be intense and a fight to the finish. All Bulldog fans need to come out and support and show that red and blue spirit. From the team’s performance thus far, you can expect to see a lot of passing offensively and the score run up pretty high since LA Tech averages 29 points a game. The stand out players on defense will be fighting their way to a win and will make it difficult for any team to score on them. Offensively the Bulldogs are very strong and cohesive and should be efficient at running and passing the ball to score.
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By: Oksana Lawrence
Overall record: 2-5 (1-4) The Northwestern State University Demons Eppler and Clay Holgorsen set a school records in the are rolling into the middle of regular season. The Demons are ready to rise to the challenge and are preparing themselves for the post season. Following the lead of Coach Laird the team has focused on accountability and effort when it comes to doing things as a team. One of the stars of this season has been Shelton Eppler the junior quarterback who has already set three school records this season. He shattered Northwestern State University’s single-game pass yardage record during the Lamar game with a 474yd total that is seventh-best by any FCS passer this season. This record was held for the last year by Clay Holgorsen (381). During his season opening interception free streak (143 attempts) he broke the record of 133 by his head coach, Brad Laird, in his senior season of 1995. He also had 6 touchdown passes at Lamar and set a record for single-game touchdowns and topped the previous record set by Zach Adkins against Nicholls. Eppler also leads the team in passing yards with 239.9 yards per game. Although Eppler has only played in 5 games this season he is still able to put up some big stats for himself. Shelton is ranked number 8 in the southland conference, he also has a total of 14 passing TDs and that leaves him 4th in the Southland Conference and this ties him for 4th in school history. Shelton has a completion rate of 61.2 percent and ranks 12th in the Southland Conference, he trails behind Houston Baptist Jerreth Sterns who has a completion rate of 100 percent. Shelton has a total of 1,679 passing yards, with 4 interceptions. Both Shelton 12
game against Grambling.
Another offensive player that has stood out for the Demons is wide receiver Jazz Ferguson. A former LSU tiger, Ferguson has had a total of 40 catches this season and is 7th in his conference. Averaging 108.9 yards per game, Ferguson leads the Southland conference in receiving yards. He has a total of 6 receiving TDs so far this season. He leads the demons in this area and ranks 3rd in the Southland conference. Ferguson has tied the school record for most 100-yard games in a season. He is not the only stand out star on offense. His fellow wide receiver Jaylen Watson has caught 31 passes this season and averages 4.4 catches per game. He has a total of 386 yards receiving and has caught a total of 4 receiving touchdowns. While his teammate Marquisian Chapman has a total of 20 catches for the season and averages 2.9 catches per game. With his 224 receptions Chapman is 4th on the Demons roster for receiving yards and has 1 receiving touchdown this year. Tight End Kalen Miggs is in his senior season and so far he has done a great job on the offense. He has caught a total of 3 passes this season and is ranked 12th, with 12 receptions. There are a couple of players on their defense that have been living up to the Purple swarm name. This season the defense is led by linebacker Quindarrius Whitley with a total of 49 tackles, 21 of those tackles were solo.
Whitley is ranked 17th in the Southland conference for tackles. Another leader in tackles is linebacker Brice Borgeson who has a total of 21 tackles. 4th on the team for tackles, Blake Stephenson has also recorded 2 sacks so far this season. Defensive lineman, Zak Krolczyk is a senior this year and with seven games under his belt he has gained a total of 28 tackles, 10 solo tackles and 18 assisted. Krolczyk is 11th on the Demons team in sacks with a total of 0.5 sacks. Junior Defensive Tackle O’Shea Jackson ranks 5th on NSU’s team with 36 total tackles and 11 solo tackles. He is also ranked 4th with 2 sacks for the season. Leading the Southland Conference in interceptions this season is Hayden Bourgeois. He has 48 tackles (26 solo) and 5 interceptions. As the demons complete the season they will need to continue to drive with the fast paced game play in order to be successful. Northwestern state has had many issues this season dealing with injuries. 33 starts have been missed this season due to injuries including concussions. Of these 29 were missed from the defense by players who started the year on the depth chart. If the demons can stay healthy, Northwestern State has a lot left to give this season.
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By Alex Lord
Overall Record 3-4 (2-2)
The Grambling State University Tigers (3-4 over-
all, 2-2 SWAC) started this season off slow, but fans should be optimistic. In 2016, the Tigers lost their first two games then went on an 11 game winning streak, finding themselves in the SWAC championship. This year shows signs of following that improbable season with the Tigers rebounding in dramatic fashion with dominating wins over Alabama State and Oklahoma Panhandle State. Head Coach Broderick Fobbs is entering is fifth season with the tigers, accumulating four SWAC coach of the year honors. Leading Grambling to back-to-back SWAC championships in 2016 and 2017, he looks to become the first coach to lead three consecutive SWAC championship teams, following the conference splitting into two divisions in 1999, since Grambling did it in 2000-2002. Fobbs shares offensive preparation and play calling with first year offensive coordinator Reginald Nelson. The team has gotten away from running a full-time spread offense and transitioned more RPOs (run-pass option) into the mixed system. Standout redshirt soph14
bodied, 6’4” 210 pound, dual-threat athlete. Leading the team in both rushing and passing, Hickbottom is vital to the Tigers’ success. The Grambling quarterback has amassed over 290 yards and six rushing touchdowns; Hickbottom can also do it through the air, producing almost 1200 yards and eight touchdowns. The Grambling wide receiving core is the most experienced in the conference with Quintin Guice (Junior), Devohn Lindsey (redshirt Senior), and Lyndemian Brooks (Junior). Each of these players has reached over 200 yards receiving thus far. Everett Todd enters his fifth season as defensive coordinator for Grambling. Always boasting a stout defense, this year should be no different. Star middle linebacker De’Arius Christmas, who is living up to his pre-season defensive player of the year projection, leads the Tigers defense. Christmas leads the Tiger defense in several categories that include tackles (35), tackles for loss (6), and interceptions (2). Truly a dynamic player, he has also tallied a forced fumble.
November brings great optimism for the Tigers. They open up the month against Mississippi Valley State at home and the defense should have a field day with the struggling Delta Devils offense. Look for De’Arius to wreak havoc on Saturday. The following week the Tigers have a challenging task in traveling to Huntsville to face Alabama A&M. The Bulldogs have a west coast style offense; look for Grambling’s exceptional front seven to put enough pressure to give their secondary opportunities for turnovers. After a bye week, the Tigers will head down to New Orleans in the nationally televised Bayou Classic against Southern University. Despite records, this game is always a dogfight, and should be nothing less of a spectacle for fans. This game could decide who represents the western conference in the SWAC championship to add even more suspense to the already intense rivalry. Southern, without a proven kicker, could be in a predicament as the game is always a close one. Not only will the play of the two football teams be entertaining, but also the battle of the bands will be equally enjoyable. Fans will travel from all over the country to New Orleans to see these two nationally recognized bands compete. Whether you are an avid football fan or an extensive music lover, this game will have something for everyone.
DEVANTE DAVIS SENIOR Wide Reciver Receiving Yards: 401 Receiving TD’s: 3
GEREMY HICKBOTTOM R. SOPHOMORE Quarterback Passing Yards: 1757 Passing TD’s: 15 Pass Completion %: 55.14% Rushing Yards: 440 Rushing TD’s: 6 15
By: Andy Bryson
This season for Louisiana College has been full of ups
and downs. Going 4-4 overall, the Wildcats have kept a positive attitude and maintained focus despite suffering losses at times this season. Louisiana college standouts on the offensive side of the ball include senior running back, Markeith Miller, who has already amassed over 1,000 yards for the season and quarterback Jase Hammack who has 9 scores for the season. Miller is also the only running back in the American Southwest Conference (ASC) to have 17 rushing touchdowns (132.0 yards per carry). Quarterback Jase Hammack has been efficient this season; recording a 62.3% completion rate and 1,202 passing yards. The offense as a whole is averaging 353.6 yards per game during conference play this season and has had three straight 400 (or more) yard games. Another offensive player who has stepped up to the plate this year is quarterback Mason Jordan. Jordan stepped in when the starter got injured earlier in the season. (Jordan is also coming off of a torn ACL from last year.) Defensively Louisiana College has done well only allowing 353.0 yards per game in the last three weeks and only allowing a team to pass for more than 200 yards once during that time span. A defensive star for the Wildcats has to be Orel Ledet Jr. This senior captain of 16
the defense has proven his worth in games like the (10 solo) and one tackle for a loss. Ledet led the defense in stopping the rushing game and holding Southwestern to only 130 yards of offense in the second half of the game. After this game he was named American Southwest Conference Player of the Week. Julius Johnson and Jacob Joffrion follow Ledet with the second and third most tackles for the Wildcats. Louisiana College faces number #2 ranked University of Mary Hardin-Baylor next. The Crusader’s (8-0, 7-0 ASC) have the best defense and special teams units in their conference. This game will be challenging for the Wildcats. Only time will tell if the Wildcat offense will overcome the #2 ranked defense in their conference.
Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Philippians 4:13
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
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By: Kadaja Cryer
Overall record: 6-3 (5-2) Coming off a 3 game win-
ning streak and then falling to Abilene Christian University was definitely not the end of this Colonels football season. They are ranked 5th in the Southland Conference with a record of 4-3. “Nicholls is a very good football team,” Lamar coach Mike Schultz said in a press release after Nicholls won 50-27. “We knew that coming into this game. This is a very physical team and they pushed us around at times. I’m proud of the fight in our guys. No matter what the score was our men never quit fighting.” This was one of the best games of the season for the Colonels, offensively they piled up 613 yards. When the defense stepped onto the field, they did not just compete they dominated. This is exactly the momentum that this Nicholls State Football team needs to finish the season as strong as they started. 18
This offense has more power than their record shows. Junior, Quarterback Chase Fourcade has 1,513 yards passing only over a span of 7 games. He has a 54.9% completion rate as well. Fourcade is a true dual threat and can beat a team in the air or on the ground. During their victory against Sam Houston, who they had not beaten since 2005, he recorded his highest passing yards for the season with 299 yards. Junior, Running Back, Dontrell Taylor is another force to be reckoned with on the ground. Taylor rushed for 361 yards and 3 touchdowns this season in 7 games. The receiving corps is strong this season with sophomore, Wide Receiver Damion Jeanpiere Jr and sophomore, Wide Receiver Dai’Jean Dixon have been taking pressure off the run game all season. Thus far Jeanpiere has over 363 yards in receiving this season. Dixon has had 431 yards in reception (112 of those yards were against Tulane) and a total of 2,969 yards thus far in the season. He averages 424.1 yards per game. The Colonel defense said they wanted to bring the heat this season, and they definitely have so far. During the
2017 season, they finished 3rd in the Southland Conference with 34 tackles. Thus far in the 2018 season, Nicholls Defense has recorded over 59 total tackles. Numbers do not lie, the defense has been moving at full speed. Junior, Defensive Back, Khristian Mims is a hard-nosed physical player. He has 39 tackles total and 30 of them are solo tackles. Mims is one of Nicholls State’s leading tacklers for this dynamic defense. Another dominating defender is Junior, Linebacker, and Laryon James. He has a total of 28 tackles, and 17 of them were solo tackles. James is a very athletic, versatile, and vital player on this defense. As the season winds down for the Colonels, they have four of their best games awaiting them. The last three of their four games are at home against University Incarnate Word, Stephen F. Austin, Southeastern Louisiana, and they will play Houston Baptist at home. As long as they continue to demolish their opponent week by week, this Nicholls State Football team could see a bowl game at the end of this season.
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By: Makenzie Dixon
Overall Record 5-2 (4-1)
G
oing into the seventh week of games for the McNeese State Cowboys, they are standing proud with an overall record of 5-2 and a conference record 4-1. The Cowboys’ “Defensive Blue Wall” continues to dominate its division. Senior linebacker B.J. Blunt has directed the defense having been named the Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Week after the win against Stephen F. Austin in which he achieved 2 sacks, a fumble recovery, and marked a McNeese career-high of 12 tackles. Blunt is ranked first in the FCS leading the Cowboys defense with 36 tackles this 2018 season. Despite missing five defensive end players due to injury and personal reasons the McNeese defense is ranked first in the Southland Conference in rushing defense, scoring defense, first down defense, fumble recoveries, and pass efficiency defense. The Cowboys offense has scored on their first possession in five of the six games this season, four of these scores were touchdowns. Senior quarterback James Tabary is throwing with a 66% completion rate, ranking him 2nd in the Southland Conference and 17th in the FCS. Tabary has started in 28 straight games and he has thrown for 200 or more yards in 17 of those. Ranked second on the team in rushing yards with 187 yards and 48 carries is senior running back David Hamm who had a 55-yard touchdown against theAbilene Christian 20
Wildcats. Justin Pratt leads the Cowboys in rushing yards this season with 227 yards. The standout has rushed for 100-yards or more four times this season. The strength of the McNeese offense includes sophomore wide receiver Cyron Sutton and junior Parker Orgeron. Sutton had 3 catches for 82 yards with a long of 46 yards against ACU and is totaling 338 receiving yards in the seventh week of games. Parker Orgeron is also a key player for the Cowboys ranked third on the team with 13 catches and 137 receiving yards. On special teams, senior punter Alex Kjellsten has kicked 22 touchbacks out of 28 opening kickoffs this season. In his 41 punts, Kjellsten has put the ball in the air for five touchbacks, 14 of the punts being downed inside the 20 yard line, and eight going 50 yards or
more. Place kicker Gunnar Raborn has connected 7 of 10 field goals and has successfully made 15 of his 16 point after touchdowns. The Cowboys’ special teams is ranked first in the Southland Conference and ninth nationally with an 18.3 return average. The upcoming games for the Cowboys will be between the Central Arkansas Bears, the Southeastern Lions, the Northwestern State Demons, and the Lamar Cardinals. Of these final four matchups, two of them are at home, and all of them are conference games. With these final games in the season John Tabary, David Hamm, B.J. Blunt, and Cyron Sutton will be the top players to watch. The Cowboys’ defense will continue to be unstoppable against the upcoming competition. Skilled and educated the Cowboys must continue to stay focused each week on the individual game.
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Getting To Know Tulane Quarterback, Justin McMillan By: Kadaja Cryer
“In Texas, it is a different breed of football,” says starting graduate transfer Quarterback, Justin McMillan of Tulane. Justin’s journey with football began far before he can remember. As kids, he and his friends would use anything they could get their hands on to create a football game including using rocks, bottles, and anything else they could possibly find. Every day he would train, run routes, and do drills to continue to perfect his craft as a football player. He excelled at more than just football in his younger days, he was also a soaring basketball star. At one point, he was more passionate about basketball than football. However, once he started to exceed his own expectations on the field, Justin decided to continue playing football only. His career with football picked up steam and he allowed the journey to create its own path. “I used to run bleachers with my teammate Mason Miller at the University of Texas at Arlington. This is what I grew up knowing, from my neighbors always encouraging me to my dad as well.” Football was more than just a game to Justin; it was a lifestyle. In order to be the best, you have to work the hardest and be the 22
most determined. Justin has showed that from a young age he had a determined mindset and a will to work. “For me, football is my base; it is my life. It goes hand and hand with breathing, so if I stopped playing football then I might as well stop breathing,” stated McMillan. Leading one of the nation’s top teams is not an easy task, but Justin managed. During his football career at Cedar Hill high school, he led his team to two state championships back to back and won both of them. “My entire senior year I woke up at 4:30 am, and I had 5:00 am workouts before school. I would work out for an hour and a half every day with my teammate Aca’Cedric Ware who is now the Running Back at the University of Southern California. In Texas we were not raised to play football, we were raised to love football” Justin and Aca’Cedric started on Junior Varsity A team together, over time they created a bond that was unbreakable. They were so in sync with each other abilities, that when it was time to showcase their talents on the Varsity level, they could not be stopped. Some other names you might know coming out of Cedar Hill High School are Richard Moore of Southern Methodist University and Demarcus Lodge of Ole Miss.
“For me, football is my base; it is my life. It goes hand and hand with breathing, so if I stopped playing football then I might as well stop breathing,” When asked who was his biggest football inspiration and why Justin said, “Michael Vick because he was one of the greatest African American quarterbacks, and he is left-handed like me.” Justin went on to explain that as he watched games and continued to play football his appreciation for Michael Vick grew because of the physicality he played with. As High School wound down for McMillan, he headed off to LSU in the spring of his senior year of high school to jumpstart his collegiate career. According to Justin, there wasn’t that much to adjust to going from high school to college. In High School, Justin knew he was already playing at a collegiate level competing against 24
other top Texas High School teams. LSU was not the only stop in Louisiana for Justin McMillan. For Justin things changed when he was an addition to the Tulane Football team for the 2018 season. Tulane offered more amenities than just being given the opportunity to showcase Justin’s talent. When making his transfer from LSU, Justin noted that he would be going to Tulane to finish off his master’s program. He also was very clear that he had not chosen Tulane lightly; rather that the coaching staff for the Green Wave showed him how much their program had to offer. Being the new guy is not always an easy thing, yet as Justin transitioned to Tulane the coaches and players were warm and welcoming. In short order Justin felt like he was a part of the Tulane family. On his first day on campus a few of the coaches showed him around the campus and introduced him to some of the players.
“They welcomed me initially, then I moved around to get to know a few other players. These guys have definitely helped me out a lot with my transition and I feel great being here,” Justin commented. In the last 4-5 years of Justin’s life, he has had experience with 3 of the most amazing coaches in college football. When asked if he had learned anything from Les Miles, Ed Oregon, and Willie Fritz that has helped him Justin said, “Les Miles helped me remain focused on my goals. I was a young impressionable male; he really helped me stay aligned with my goal at LSU. Coach O just had this energy about him that made everybody want to be great. He would say, ‘Get your work done, and you can have all the fun you want on the field.’ Then Coach Fritz worked more trying to help me continue to grow as a leader. He wanted me to continue to grow as a person, and reach my max potential.” He went on to talk about his debut game against the Memphis Tigers. Justin went into the game in the 3rd quarter, and on the first play he threw a 51 yard touchdown to Wide Receiver, Darnell Mooney, to later win their first big conference at home. “It felt refreshing to get back out there, get back in the swing of things, and be back on the field again. Everything was still how it used to be in the past; it just felt good all around” said McMillan.
SOPHOMORE QUARTERBACK ASCENSION EPISCOPAL BLUE GATORS
26
His main goal this season is to create a better connection with his teammates, learning about each individual person. Finding out more about who they are will be critical to their success this season.
“I have to make up for 3 ½ years of lost time with these guys,” Justin exclaims when explaining his personal goals for the season. Throughout his journey Justin has learned that he can get through any obstacle. He went on to explain that he has seen the results of the hard work he has put in. There is nothing too hard for this player who is focused on the future. When reflecting on his journey up until this point, Justin stated, “Anything that I have at this position at quarterback, I earned.” I think fans can expect more great things from Justin at Tulane. After all this is not a different Justin McMillan, rather this is the 2.0 version.
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By: Makenzie Dixon
Overall Record 6-3 (4-1) The Southern University Jaguars have looked
exceptional as a team thus far. The strong defense has proved its strength in its three conference games thus far against Alabama A&M, Alcorn State, and Prairie View. Players of note include standouts like linebacker Calvin Lunkins recorded 12 total tackles during the Alcorn State University game, 10 during the Alabama A&M game, and 3 during the game against Langston University. The redshirt junior Montavius Gaines totaled 8 tackles against the Alabama A&M Bulldogs to defeat their opponent in a 29-27 win. Tyran Nash also had a highlight game during the competition between Texas Southern, having two sacks and five tackles. Coach Odums explained, “He’s a good football player, but his growth has got to come in leadership. Once he gets to that point, I think he’ll be a really good player.” The tenacious defense continues to protect the bluff.
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On offense, all-star quarterback John Lampley continues to establish himself in his first year as the starting quarterback. This season alone Lampley has passed for almost 700 yards and 8 touchdowns. Junior quarterback Ladarius Skelton made his second career start during the matchup between Texas Southern when he experienced a massive tackle, injuring his ankle. For the majority of the season, Lampley has started at the quarterback spot, but after Skeleton’s excellent performance against the Prairie View A&M Panthers in a 38-0 win, Odums is unsure as to who will start going forward.
With the help and talent of running backs Devon Benn and Jarmarqueza Mims, the Jaguars have accumulated over 1,160 rushing yards, but Benn is still searching for his first 100-yard game of 2018 season. This junior (Benn) leads the team with 448 rushing yards. Thus far, sophomore wide receiver Kendall Catalon has gained 262 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns. Collectively the Jaguars have passed for over 900 yards to help the team secure an overall record of 4-3, 3-1 in conference matchups. On special teams, sophomore kicker Cesar Barajas has kicked for 1,468 yards and a total of 36 punts. Barajas takes kickoffs, punts, and occasionally field goals, while Martel Fontenot is the more consistent extra point kicker for the Jaguars. Going forward on offense, I expect to see a weekly manto-man competition for the starting quarterback spot. Lampley had much success during the beginning of the season, but experienced several rough games and sacrificed some of his playing time. Skelton definitely took advantage of the opportunity and prospered. With only three games remaining in the Jaguars season, they will be playing two of their toughest games. First they will compete against the Jackson State Tigers at home, and then they have the annual game against the Grambling State Tigers. The Jaguars will have to completely focus on each individual game in order to come out on top and defeat their upcoming rivals. Go Jags!
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By: Oksana Lawrence
Overall record: 3-5 (3-3)
As we approach the middle of the regular season, the
Lions have an overall record of 3-5 and a conference record of 3-3. Both defense and offense have been working together to improve throughout the season. While this season has been a struggle at times, the Lions’ fans have remained focused and supportive. As a team the Lions have a 308 passing yards percentage and 117 rushing yard completion rate. On the offensive side of the ball the Lions’ quarterback Chason Virgil has started in all eight games for this season. Chason is a very smart and tactical player. He has the ability to stay focused when under pressure and he does his best to get the ball in the right position for his team. Averaging 300.6 passing yards per game, Chason’s completion rate is 60.7 percent. Chason led the team in passing yards in all eight games and has a total of 2,405 yards passing. He has 15 touchdowns for the season thus far. Fellow quarterback Junior Lorenzo Nunez, who also plays the wide receiver position has started in two games this season for the Lions. Nunez has great speed and agility and he uses that to his advantage on the field. He is averaging 8.3 passing yards per game. Nunez has thrown 1 passing touchdown this season, and rushed for a total of 129 yards. Another offensive star is wide receiver Juwan Petit-Frere. The junior has a total of 37 receptions, making him 8th in the Southland conference. Thus far this season Petit-Frere leads the Lions in receiving yards with a total of 625 yards. He is averaging 78.1 receiving yards per game and is ranked 4th in the Southland Conference. In recog 30
nition of his awesome performance, Juwan has been named Southland Conference Special Teams player of the week, and Louisiana Special Teams Player of the Week on the same day. Petit-Frere has caught a total of 3 touchdowns this season and should continue to be a difference maker on the offense.
Running Back Darren Johnson is another Lion that pays with grit and determination. Darren leads the southeastern lions in rushing yards with 46.5 yards per game, and a total of 372 yards rushing. As a Junior Darren is ranked number 17 in the Southland Conference in both rushing yards and yards per carry. Johnson has rushed for 3 touchdowns this season for the SLU Lions. Another running back that is standing out for the Lions is Devonte Williams. Williams has carried the ball 62 yards this season for the Lions, and is averaging 24.4 rushing yards per game. On the Defensive side of the ball there are also a couple of players that have been standing out this season. Defensive backs, Xavier Lewis and Dejion Lynch are both juniors and have been big assets to the Lions’ defense. Xavier ranks first on the SELU team with a total of 52 tackles, with 33 of them being solo tackles and 19 tackle assists. He also has recorded on forced fumble for the Lions. Lynch has been ranked 6th on the team with a total of 37 tackles, 29 of those tackles are solo tackles. His teammate Tamarcus Russell leads the team and his conference in tackles with an impressive 84, and 48 of those tackles are solo tackles. He is ranked 5th for the Lions in sacks. He also has 1 interception this year and has been awarded Southland Conference Defensive
Player of the week. Another player doing well so far this season is LB Issac Adeyemi-Berglund who has had a total of 45 tackles with 21 solo tackles. Adeyemi-Berglund is an aggressive and focused player and it shows as he has 4 sacks so far this season. The Lions have worked hard throughout the regular season and with only a few games left before the end of the season, they are looking to tighten their game up and continue to improve as they compete the season. Head Coach Frank Scelfo always talks about how well he knows that his boys can play and how he looks forward to watching them improve each game. Both Defense and Offense have played with a great deal of heart all season long. The team is preparing this week to travel to Huntsville, TX where they will compete against Sam Houston State in hopes of getting another Southland conference victory.
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By Daila Weeks
Overall Record 4-4 (2-2)
The University of Louisiana at Monroe Warhawks have been fighting their way through a great football season. “Our goal is to win the Sun Belt Conference Championship and get to a bowl game, said Cortez Sisco Jr, linebacker from Southaven, MS. “For us to have the start we did this season and turn things around and be sitting in first place in the division that is big time for real.” The Warhawks are 4-4 currently and 2-2 in conference play. Defensive coordinator Mike Collins said, “When you go through what we went through earlier in the year, we played really good in a couple games early and then payed really bad. I think the players took it to heart and worked really hard to make sure we weren’t the cause of us not being successful.”
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So far for the year the Warhawks have averaged 24 points a game and have had a total of 25 touchdowns and 3,234 yards offensively. Passing the Warhawks have gained 1,838 yards and rushing they have recorded 1,396 yards. This month the Warhawks have 4 Sun Belt Conference match ups. Left on the schedule are Georgia Southern, South Alabama, Arkansas State, and the Ragin’ Cajuns (in this order). The final game of the season against the Ragin’ Cajuns will be at home this year which should be a benefit in this yearly grudge match. This is an old-time rivalry and Malone Stadium needs to be sold out with maroon and gold fans everywhere cheering on the Warhawks. There have been multiple stand out players on both sides of the ball. Red shirt senior running back Derrick Gore has gone for 440 rushing yards with only a loss for 9. He has 5 touchdowns so far this season. Junior quarterback Caleb Evans has rushed for 504 yards with a loss of 86. He has 5 rushing touchdowns. In passing Caleb Evans is also a stand out. He has a passer rating of 120.66 and has gone 159/268. Evans additionally has 1,746 passing yards and 9 passing touchdowns. Caleb Evans has had an outstanding season and is a crucial part of this team’s success. Senior wide receiver Mar
cus Green has 539 yards receiving and 5 touchdowns for the season. Junior wide receiver RJ Turner has 369 yards and 1 touchdown. Offense has had a great year thus far and really has outstanding players in multiple positions. Not to be left out the defense has some stand out players including senior safety Collin Turner who leads the team in tackles with 36 solo tackles and 18 assists (a total of 54 thus far). Close on his heels is linebacker senior David Griffith has 28 solo tackles and 24 assists for a total of 52. From the stats and the Warhawks performance thus far we can expect these last 4 conference games to be close fought battles to the finish. The team has shown improvements on both sides of the ball throughout the season. Offensively you can expect Caleb Evans to deliver as a quarterback in both the passing and rushing aspect. I believe defense is still adjusting and trying to do their part to make the Warhawks successful.
Talons Out!
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By: Coach Andy Bryson
Overall Record 5-5 (3-3)
T
he University Louisiana Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns have had a busy season and have worked to come together as a unit under first year Head Coach Billy Napier. Overall this season University Louisiana Lafayette has converted 3rd downs frequently with 53% (55 of 104) and has ranked 4th in the FBS. In addition the Ragin’ Cajuns have done well in the red zone scoring on 23 of 26 attempts (88.5% of the time). There are many exemplary players this season on both sides of the ball. One of the standouts this season is senior quarterback Andre Nunez, who for the second time this season, has thrown for two touchdowns and has run for one 18 of 26 passes against Arkansas State. So far this season Nunez has completed 116 out of 172 passes and has 6 interceptions. He is also credited with 13 touchdowns. Another offensive star, is sophomore Elijah Mitchell who has rushed for 403 yards, ranking him 17th in the FBS during the month of October. During the game against Arkansas State, Mitchell pulled in a career long 64 yard touchdown catch. That catch was the longest play by a Louisiana running back this season. Mitchell finished that game with 121 yards receiving on six receptions and one touchdown. During the same series Mitchell scored 7 rushing touchdowns which ties him for most touchdowns scored by a running back in the FBS. (121 receiving yards in a single game are the third most by a running back in Louisiana’s program 34
ANDRE NUNEZ SENIOR QUARTERBACK
2018 SEASON STATS PASSING YARDS: 1750 PASSING TD’s: 14 PASSING COMP. %: 65.3%
history.) Mitchell’s 121 yards receiving marks the first time that a Louisiana running back has caught over 100 yards since Elijah McGuire had 134 yards receiving in 2015. In addition Mitchell has averaged 8.8 yards per carry during October and ranks as 14th best in the FBS for yards per carry. Special Teams has done its part this season to help the Ragin’ Cajuns; senior kicker Kyle Pfau hit a 52 yard field goal against Arkansas State. This field goal was the seventh longest field goal in school history and the fourth longest made in the FBS during that week. Pfau was named the Sun Belt Conference Player of the Week following his two field goal performance against Arkansas State. He became the first member from Louisiana to get the special teams nod since Raymond Calais won it on Sept. 4, 2017. This also gives Louisiana three SBC Players of the Week in the same season for the first time since 2014, when Louisiana eventually ended up with four by the end of the season.
On the defensive side of the ball, Jacques Boudreaux leads the team in tackles with 47 total tackles (17 solo, 30 tackle assists, and 2 tackles for a loss). Boudreaux also has recorded one sack, three pass break ups, and two quarterback hurries so far this season. Right behind Boudreaux on the leader board for the defense is Corey Turner who has 42 total tackles with 26 solo tackles and 16 tackle assists. Turner has also gotten one sack, 2.5 tackles for a loss, and one interception. The Cajuns have improved as the season has progressed and it is predicted they could even end up going to post season play.
Geaux Cajuns!
RAYMOND CALAIS JUNIOR RUNNING BACK BREAUX BRIDGE, LA.
2018 SEASON
RUSHING YARDS: 637 RUSHING TD’s: 6 RECEIVING YARDS: 65 KICK RETURNS: 569
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Diamond In The Rough O U R G O A L AT L G F I S T O H E L P T H E U N D E R R AT E D
BECOME RECRUITED We highlight the best junior and senior athletes Louisiana has to offer. D.I.T.R. articles showcase the talent and ability of these players.
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Adam Purser is a senior tight end at Opelousas Catholic School. He uses his height and agility to make blocks and help out the team. He has been playing football since second grade and has received multiple athletic awards in his high school career. After graduating he wants to attend college and major in architectural and engineering management. He puts everything he has onto the field and in the classroom and maintains an impressive 3.7 GPA. Adam has improved on his technique since last season and is still working every day to improve his skills even more. What would your teammates say about you? I give it all I have every play and I always give 100% no matter how tired I am or how hard it gets.
Adam Purser Opelousas Catholic
Pos: Height: Weight: GPA: ACT 40: By: Daila Weeks
TE 6’4� 250 3.7 22 4.8
When did you begin playing football? I started in second grade. Football is something my family has done my whole life. I grew up playing football. I have always played tight end since I was a little kid. What awards have you won through football? My sophomore year I was All-District, junior year I was first team All-District, first team All-Parish, and second team All-State and my senior year so far I have gotten preseason All-State. Do you play any other sports? I played baseball my first 3 years of high school, I am not sure if I am going to this year. What do you want to major in college? I plan on doing architectural and engineering managing.
Do you see yourself as a leader on your team? Yes, I do. I lead by example and I am a quiet guy so whenever I say something it carries with the others because they know how much I care about this. Who is your athletic role model? Travis Kelce the tight end on the Kansas City Chiefs. I love his play and how passionate he is for the game of football and he just inspires me to be who I am. What has football taught you about yourself? It has made me who I am and has made me grow as a person. It has also humbled me and brings out something that not everyone knows about you that you can show on the field. What have you most improved on since last season? My blocking skills as a tight end have gotten much better since last year. I was able to improve on this skill by talking with my coaches and going to camps. I worked on getting better technique and finishing my blocks every time. 37
them all together and he loves when his family comes out. Bryce also loves the contact of the sport and the atmosphere of the games. Bryce has a very high football IQ and has the ability to pick up on things quickly during a game. Throughout his many years of playing he has learned a lot about himself and the game of football.
Bryce Fricke West Monroe High
POS: Height: Weight: Squat: 40: GPA: ACT:
OL 5’11” 170 205 5.1 4.0 29
By: Oksana Lawrence
Bryce Fricke is a senior attend-
ing De La Salle High School, located in New Orleans, LA. He is 6’4 offensive tackle with tons of strength. He weights 293 pounds and can bench 265 pounds. He has been playing football since he was 5 years old and it something that he has always been fascinated about. His parents not only got him to start playing football, but they are the people that inspire him to keep pushing himself. Bryce explained that his parents have sacrificed a lot for him and because of that he so grateful for them. His parents have worked hard to raised him and that is what pushes Bryce to do his best every day. Bryce says “we were never really the wealthiest family”, but regardless they have always found a way. Family is something that is very important to Bryce along with football, when asked what he loves the most about football, he had a list of things. He expressed how much he loved when his family could come together and enjoy watching him play. It is something that can bring
Bryce is a very hardworking athlete, he strives to get better at his craft every day. Bryce thinks of himself as a very humbled leader and he loves to push and motivate those around him. He is also a leader outside of football. He is a part of his church and is involved in youth groups at his church, where they talk about life and the future. When asked about the type of student he is, Bryce said “I put my academics before football, even though it may be a struggle for me, my coaches and I will find a way for me to get the help that I need.” Bryce is someone who believes in putting his all into everything that he does whether it is school work or football related. Coaches would say that he is very coachable and a leader for his team and he is very productive on the field at practices and games Bryce is one that cheers his teammates up and gives them words to keep them going throughout tough match-ups, this shows the type of character he has. Bryce has an offer from Louisiana College and has set up multiple visits at the end of the end of the year. South Alabama, Middle Georgia State University, Southeastern, and Southeastern Fire University are all of the schools he plans to visit towards the end of the year. When Bryce gets to college he wants to major in business and wants to learn how to build houses and hopefully get into the real estate business. His main goal is to get his education and play football, those two things are always going to be his main priority.
Austin Jemison,
is a senior at Episcopal High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Austin is a running back and is willing to do whatever it takes for his team to get a win. He feels that he is a impact player, and that is does not only help him on the field but off as well. Over the years from playing football he has learned that you always have to get back up, because the process is equally important as the game. With 13 touchdowns from his junior season, Austin is looking forward to continuing to dominate the field and striving to perfect his craft even more.
Austin Jemison Episcopal High School
POS: Height: Weight: Clean: Squat: Bench: 40: GPA: By: Kadaja Cryer
RB 5’10� 175 250 510 300 4.5 3.04
In what moment did you realize that football was the sport for you? I have always liked playing football but, with other sports the aspect of fun was not really there for me. However with football it was, and that drive kept me wanting to play and I really loved the sport.
If I were to ask any coach on your team about your work ethics and how you motivate others, what would their response be in your opinion? They know that I put in the work, and I am a bit more on the quiet side. When it is time to fire my guys up I lead more by example, but when it is necessary I also use my words.
What has playing football taught What is one moral or value in your you about yourself? life that you bring to football that I have realized as a leader, I am a helps you continue to be a great good influence on other people and player? that is something that I did not realHard work and not stopping, because ize. For example, when I get on my you have to keep going. You might teammates about the workouts they get down in the game but you have to know that I am serious because they keep going and pushing through. have seen what I can do on the field. Who are your biggest motivators? My mom, she is one of the main reason why I am playing football. She has always been there for me and going to college for free would help the both of us. It has always been a dream of mine to compete on the next level, and to be able to play college football and get my education is an opportunity I can not pass up.
What is your greatest strength and why? My mentality, the way I feel about what I am doing. For example, losing everybody say it is not a option but it does not sit well with me. So I always try and do my very best in everything that I do. 39
During that season he threw 549 yards and accumulated 6 touchdowns. Cole looks up to Drew Brees, he loves that he is passionate about the sport, Cole also likes that he can take control of the game and lead his team.
Cole Simon Ascension Episcopal
By: Oksana Lawrence
POS: Height: Weight: Bench: Squat: 40: GPA:
QB 6’ 175 190 300 4.8 3.5
Cole Simon
is the starting quarterback at Ascension Episcopal High School in Lafayette, LA. Just a sophomore, Cole has proven himself worthy of the starting position his Freshman year. Growing up Cole always loved watching football especially college football. Cole started playing football when he was in the 5th grade, and he hasn’t stopped since. He believes that football is something that he can’t live without, and no matter what level he is at there is always room for improvement. Cole plays the game not only for his self but for his team as well. He has always had the support from not only his family but his teammates as well. His teammates would say that he is a great leader and they love how hard he works. His first year in high school, he started more than half the games as a freshman on the Varsity team.
Cole is a multi-talented athlete, not only did he make the varsity football team his freshman year, but he has also made the varsity team for both basketball and baseball as well. Cole is a really competitive athlete and loves being aggressive on the field. This season Cole has taken advantage of every starting opportunity that he has been given. His goals going into the season were to get over 500 rushing yards and over 1,000 passing yards this season. Increasing his speed and improving his accuracy are some areas that he hoped to improve on throughout his sophomore season. His team goal is to make it to the State Championship and bring home a title. When asked about what football has taught him about himself Cole stated “Football has really taught me how to be a humbled player, and to always give it my all out there at every game and every practice.” The second game of the season Cole engineered 4 touchdown drives to win the game against Catholic of Pointe Coupee. This play happened with only 9 minutes left in the final quarter. The Gators were able to overcome a 19 point deficit with a kick-off to win the game. This season, Cole has passed for over 2,000 yards, rushed for over 480 yards. He has thrown 15 TD’s and ran for another 6. Cole is one of the top QB’s for Acadia this season and he is only a Sophomore.
Legend Denler is a senior wide re-
ceiver at Benton High School. Born and raised in Bossier City, LA, the student-athlete has been involved in sports since the age of four, when he played baseball and football. With over 700 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns in his 2017 season, his quick speed and excellent ball-handling skills are what makes him a stand out player. Upon graduation, he looks forward to attending a prestigious university as either an architecture or engineering major.
Legend Denier Benton High School By: Makenzie Dixon
POS: Height: Weight: Bench: Squat: 40: GPA:
WR 5’10� 165 225 420 4.5 3.3
What would your coaches say about you? My coaches would say I am a hard worker on and off the field and am an all around good person. Likewise, my teammates would have very positive things to say about me.
How do you prepare in the off-season? When did you start playing foot- During the off-season, I train nonball? stop and am constantly working on I started playing football around the my footwork and routes. The best age of 5. I began as a running back thing for me to do is to get with the and later played quarterback, but I quarterback and practice. soon learned that the wide receiver position was best for me. What makes you different from the other players on your team? What made you want to start My name is Legend. Although I am playing football? very humble on and off the field, I have always had an interest in I aspire to live up to the name my sports since I was young. You could parents gave me. always find me throwing a football or hitting a baseball. Over time, I Why should a college recruit gravitated more towards football you? because of its high energy and quick I pride myself in putting in hard pace. work and dedication to my team and my craft on and off the field. How have you improved since When I am not physically working, your first year of high school? I am mentally strategizing. Also, as Freshman year I was very skinny. important as football is to me, I still I have used my time at practice to am very diligent in my schoolwork bulk up, and improve my speed and and manage my time accordingly. ball control. 41
Aaron Benfield is a middle line backer from Schriever, Louisiana. This four-star athlete attends E.D. White High School and will be graduating in May of 2019. At 205 pounds, this 6’1” student-athlete has a 3.0 GPA, received a 22 on his ACT and was 1st Team All-District. With 102 tackles during his junior season, Aaron is looking forward to continuing to be a playmaker on the field and getting closer to a state title.
Aaron Benfield E.D. White
By: Makenzie Dixon
POS: Height: Weight: Clean: Squat: Bench: 40: GPA: ACT:
LB 6’1” 205 300 465 305 4.8 3.0 22
How old were you when you started playing? I was only 7 years old, which is relatively young in youth sports. It looked really fun as a little boy so I was eager to get involved. How have you improved since your first year of high school? Since my freshman year of high school, I learned how to be a leader and I also greatly improved my form and athleticism. What would your coaches say about you? My coaches would say that I am very hard working and that I am a smart player on and off the field. They would also say that I am a great leader. Do you play any other sports? When I am not on the field, I am powerlifting. I am also a member of the track and field team as a participant in the shot put.
Keilon Brown is a name that you will never forget once
you have seen him dominate the football field on any given Friday night. He is a 6’0 and 183lbs dual-threat starting Junior, Quarterback for Zachary High School. He is kind, outgoing, and compassionate individual. His speed, athletism, and determination have allowed him to become one of the best dual-threat Quarterbacks out there. From his 2017 season, Keilon Brown was named 1st team all-district, 1st team all metro, and 1st team all-state. He was also named MVP for that season as well. As a young freshman he had to take on a major leadership role becoming the starting varsity quarterback, and 3 years later he is exceeding the expectations that were set in front of him.
Keilon Brown Zachary High School
POS: QB Height: 6’0” Weight: 185
By: Kadaja Cryer
Who is your inspiration and why? My uncle, I feed off of his great energy and that is what helps me go out and play each game like it was my last. He is always there for me, he also played quarterback in High School and College. He has a lot of knowledge that he gives me about what type of defense that we might be up against and their rankings, and how to defeat them. What sparked your interest in playing football? I started playing around the age of 4-5 years old, I would throw the football around with my uncle and older brother. From the start I have always played quarterback, there was never a doubt that this position was not for me. What has playing quarterback taught you about yourself? It has taught me patience because nothing should be rushed you have to let it happen, timing is everything.
What has football taught you about overcoming adversity? When adversity hit you have to understand it and learn how to overcome it. For example, when playing against West Monroe in the semifinal game during the 2017 season and in the second half they started to rally up points and try to come back. We had figure out how to stop them so that we could win, and we did just that. What is the first word that comes to mind that describes you and why? Competitive because losing is not an option. I know what my team and myself is capable of and that is winning football games. What do think you bring to a college team that they don’t already have? I believe I could bring athletism because many colleges need a dual-threat quarterback. As a quarterback when you do not have any options left when a play is going on, you either fold or you make something out of nothing, and I believe I can be that quarterback that creates something out of nothing. 43