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STAFF Andy Bryson- Owner/Publisher
Laura Norsworthy– Senior Editor
Kristen Bryson– Editor
Phil Blanchard– Dir. Of Marketing
Jason Saucier– Photographer
Jasmine Brown– Writer
Dorian McElwee – H/S Writer
Richard Hebert– Dir. Of Ad Sales
Jada Davis-- Writer
and Business Development
Kevin Empey --NFL Writer www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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By: John Paul Guidry, DPT, CSCS
At Guidry Golf and Sport we offer golf and sports performance training. We can help improve overall sports performance in both youth and adults. Through his training with TPI, John Paul can help you get back to the course after injury, play pain free or help to improve your performance and overall fitness. Our services include an extensive evaluation including a TPI golf specific screen as well as deeper individualized evaluations of areas that are needed. We provide a workout program based on the findings of this evaluation in combination with the clients golf performance and fitness related needs. We offer training out of our facility at Guidry Physical Therapy Services in Lacombe. We are also working with James Leitz PGA and his assistants out of Tchefuncta Country Club in Covington. We offer a team approach either with James or your current teacher if needed in order to address your golf swing as well as your fitness and performance levels. James is a world renowned teaching professional and the facilities at Tchefuncta are some of the best in the country. We are working on offering travel services to your gym or home as well as offering training out of John Paul's home gym. What is TPI? The Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) is the world's leading educational organization dedicated to the study of how the human body functions in relation to the golf swing. Since its inception in 2003, TPI has studied thousands of golfers ranging from the top professional Tour players to weekend enthusiasts. An incredible amount of data on players of all shapes, sizes, ages, and fitness levels has been gathered during this time. Using this data, TPI discovered how a properly functioning body allows a player to swing a golf club in the most efficient way possible. Additionally, TPI has analyzed how physical limitations in a player’s body can adversely affect the golf swing and potentially lead to injury. All this R&D means little to the average golfer if it can’t be put into practice in a simple and meaningful way. TPI Certified members are the delivery vehicle of all this knowledge to you. By working with a TPI Certified expert, you’re tapping into this vast knowledge base and taking the right
www.guidrypt.com John Paul Guidry DPT, CSCS JohnPaul@guidrypt.com 61700 Hwy 434 Unit D
Phone (985) 882-8427
Lacombe, La 70445
Fax (985) 882-8429
WE OFFER ONE HOUR 1 TO 1 TREATME T WITH A DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY
steps necessary to find your most efficient golf swing. TPI does not believe in one way to swing a club, rather in an infinite number of swing styles. But, we do believe there is one efficient way for every player to swing and it is based on what the player can physically do. The most efficient swing is not the same for every golfer, because efficiency is unique to their body. To achieve an efficient swing, a golfer must first be screened. This screen involves an assessment of swing mechanics and biomechanics, physical fitness, movement quality, current health and a client history. Once this screen is finished, the results are used to create a plan unique for that golfer. We offer home/gym programs with follow up consults, one on one and small group training. We have packages available for those interested in multiple one on one sessions. Please contact us for pricing by calling 985 235 7130 or via email at Johnpaul@guidrypt.com Disclaimer: Although the owner of John Paul Guidry is a licensed physical therapist, rendering Performance Services does not constitute the practice of physical therapy or any other service for which a state licensure is required. Guidry PT’s Performance Services are based upon John Pauls’s proficiency in and knowledge of how to help clients set and reach their performance goals. These services are not covered by insurance.
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CONTENTS 10.1.2017 6 PROHIBITION ON END ZONE CELEBRA TION REPEALED! 8 LSU 10 Nicholls State Starts The 2017 Season Hot 12 McNeese State Hitting Stride 14 Grambling State Tigers Climb Up in Rank ings 16 Southern Jaguars Push Forward 18 Louisiana College Wildcats 19 NSU 20 All Gas No Brakes with Tulane Quarter back Jonathan Banks
Upcoming Issues
30 La Tech 32 ULM WarHawks
Oct-Dec Season Updates
34 UL Ragin Cajuns
Jan
All-Louisiana Team
36 Southeastern Lions
Feb
Louisiana Players Entering The Draft
39 NEW ORLEANS SAINTS REVIEW
March College Recruiting April
NFL Draft
May
Look At Spring Football
June
Recapping the Draft and NFL Free Agency
July
Tailgating Super Issue
August NFL Preseason Sept
College Preseason
Where you can pick up an issue: Baton Rouge: City News Stand, Denham Springs: Double Click Solutions, Balloon Mania, Gonzales: Ralphs Market, Slidell: Camille City Donuts, iSupply, Lacombe: Guidry Physical Therapy, Prairieville: Ralphs Market www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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Dear Readers,
Louisiana College Football is well under way this season, and I just wanted to take a minute to thank our loyal readers and subscribers. Thanks to you we now have over 30,000 followers on our Facebook page! We are committed to continuing to bring you the latest and greatest football news from inside the state. There is still a lot of season left and lots of tailgating opportunities around the state. Don’t forget we are more than just a magazine, so check out our Twitter, Facebook, and website for all your football news. Additionally if you wonder what it would take to advertise with us here at LGF either in the magazine or online please contact our knowledgeable sales crew at (225) 931-8711 or richard@louisianagridironfootball.com . Let us work with you to get your product/services out there.
Sincerely,
A. Bryson
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A Green Bay Packers Share Holder Prospective
By Kevin Empey Sports Writer for LGF
It looks like a headline from a 1930’s newspaper when the prohibition on alcohol ended and Americans celebrated. Well, Americans can celebrate once again and so can NFL players. The NFL has repealed the ban on end zone celebrations, with certain restrictions, so once again those giants of the gridiron can (or attempt to) do the Macarena or the Chicken after charging their way through a wall of humanity and into the end zone scoring that sometimes elusive touchdown.
ous displays of emotion that come after a spectacular touchdown and players have told us they want more freedom to be able to express themselves and celebrate their athletic achievements.” These celebrations are fun and entertaining to watch. This game, after all, is played for the entertainment of you the fans, who without there would be no NFL. The snow angels are back, ENJOY!
When I first heard the ruling change I was elated! After all we are the Prometheus of the end zone celebration with the legendary Lambo Leap, which by the way went untouched when the ban was implemented. There has always been something endearing about watching a 220 pound player “putting his moves on”, and in fact some players became famous partly due to their end zone antics. I missed the days when you excitedly waited to see what kind of creative end zone celebrations the players would come up with next. It was all part of the game. With the ever-growing restrictions it is encouraging to see some flexibility by the NFL. Most of the recent rulings are designed for the protection of the players which I can respect not only for their physical wellbeing but also for helping to prevent the loss of valuable members of the team due to injury. In my opinion however, the end zone ban had minimal if any bearing on injury prevention and was costly to players for simply celebrating their accomplishments on the field of green. Jimmy Graham for instance was fined $30,000 for simply “dunking” the ball.
Nobody enjoyed a good celebration after a touchdown like Joe Horn with his Cell phone end zone celebration.
The lift of the ban was announced on Tuesday and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell stated “Acts of spontaneous displays of emotion will be allowed. But demonstrations that are deemed offensive, that delay the game, or are directed at opponents are still prohibited. We know you love the spontanewww.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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True Freshmen Continue to Play Big Roles at LSU
Offense, Defense Winning Turnover Battle
So far this season, 20 true freshmen have played for the Tigers, which is the most in the nation after five weeks of the season. 4 Against BYU, 17 true freshmen saw action for the most by an LSU team in a season opener since at least 1995. 4 LSU tied Georgia and Miami for the most true freshmen to play in a season opener in the nation. The following is a list of teams that played double-digit true freshmen in its season opener: LSU (17), Georgia (17), Miami (17), Arizona (12), Illinois (12), Baylor (11), USC (11), Colorado State (10), Duke (10), Florida (10, Michigan (10) and Virginia (10) 4 The following is a list of true freshmen who have played this season: QB Myles Brennan, TE/F Tory Carter LB K’Lavon Chaisson, RG Saahdiq Charles, OG Austin Deculus, FS Grant Delpit, RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, DE Neil Farrell Jr., S Todd Harris Jr., OG Ed Ingram, WR Justin Jefferson, CB Jontre Kirklin, WR Racey McMath, WR Mannie Netherly LB Jacob Phillips, LB Patrick Queen, WR JaCoby Stevens, LB Tyler Taylor, DE Justin Thomas, CB Kary Vincent Jr.
The LSU offense continues to win the turnover battle with a +3 margin after four weeks. LSU turned the ball over for the first time this season against Syracuse with an interception by freshman quarterback Myles Brennan. LSU is just one of just 16 teams in the nation without a fumble this season. The Tigers also rank second in the nation with one turnover for the year. The defense has given LSU a +3 turnover margin with three interceptions by Andraez "Greedy" Williams and one by true freshman Kary Vincent Jr. Greedy Leads League in Interceptions Redshirt freshman Andraez "Greedy" Williams is the Tigers' starting cornerback opposite of senior Donte Jackson. Greedy has already intercepted three passes this season, which is tied for the best in the league. Greedy's interceptions came against BYU, Chattanooga and the first play of the game against Syracuse. Etling is Tigers' Starting Quarterback When senior Danny Etling took the first snap against BYU, he became the most veteran LSU quarterback in terms of collegiate starts since Herb Tyler in 1998. Etling owns 27 career starts (15 at LSU, 12 at Purdue). Etling is 10-5 as LSU’s starting quarterback. The LSU graduate has guided the Tigers to wins over Jacksonville State, Missouri, Southern Miss, Ole Miss, Arkansas, Texas A&M, Louisville in the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl, BYU, Chattanooga and Syracuse. White Continues to Shine at Linebacker True sophomore linebacker Devin White leads the Tigers' in tackles after five games this season and has been the team's leading tackler in four games. White's 49 tackles leads the Southeastern Conference and are the second-most by an LSU player after the first five games since the 2002 season. The Springhill, Louisiana native has set a career high in tackles in four of five games this season. Dominant Defense Shuts Out BYU The LSU defense allowed just 97 total yards in the season opener and -5 yards on the ground. The 97 yards were the fewest since limiting ULM to 93 in 2014. The rushing yards were the fewest allowed since Ole Miss had -50 yards on Oct. 3, 1982. The
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BYU offense's average start was its own 19-yard line. The LSU defense did not allow BYU to cross the 50-yard line. LSU became the fifth FBS team in the last 10 seasons to not allow its FBS opponent to cross midfield. The following are the times a defense has not allowed its opponent to cross midfield: BYU vs LSU (Saturday); FIU vs Louisville (2013); UMASS vs UCONN (2012); New Mexico St. vs Ohio St. (2009); Washington St. vs USC (2008). Guice Surpasses 2,000 Career Yards, Nearing Top-10 List RB Derrius Guice surpassed the 2,000 career rushing yard mark in LSU's win over Chattanooga. The Baton Rouge native became the 16th player in LSU history to rush for 2,000 or more yards in a career. Guice passed Leonard Fournette as the most efficient rusher to surpass 2,000 yards as he needed only 271 attempts, 32 fewer than Fournette's 302. Guice is 80 yards away from moving into the top-10 of LSU's career rushing yard list. A year ago, Guice became the fastest player to reach 1,000 yards Chark Returns TD, Sets Career High Against UTC Senior WR DJ Chark returned a punt 65 yards for a touchdown against Chattanooga for his first career special teams touchdown. The punt return was the first since DB Tre'Davious White
returned a 60-yard punt against Jacksonville State on Sept. 10, 2016. Chark also totaled three catches for a career-high 103 yards. The Alexandria, Louisiana native surpassed 100 receiving yards for the first time in his career. Williams Reaches 1,000 Yard Mark RB Darrel Williams became the 47th LSU Football player to reach 1,000 career yards in his 39th game played. He finished the night against Syracuse with 16 carries for 92 yards and one touchdown. With his second carry of the game, a 10-yard rush on 3rd-and-8, D. Williams reached 1,002 career yards. Williams also caught a career-long pass from Brennan for 43 yards before rushing for his eighth carry of the night where he broke for a 20-yard touchdown, his first of the night and 15th career. In the third quarter with 14:50 left, Williams rushed for 20 yards for his 15th touchdown of his career and fifth of the season.
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Nicholls State Starts The 2017 Season Hot By: Jada Davis The Nicholls State Colonels made the FCS Coaches Top 25 Poll for the first time since 2007. In week three, the Colonels were ranked number 23. In that same week, they were number 28 in the STATS FCS Poll with 251 votes. Nicholls had a fast start this season with a 37-35 victory over rival McNeese State. Picked to finish fifth in the Southland Preseason Poll, the Colonels ended an eight-game losing streak vs. the Cowboys. Nicholls’ football season is on a bit of a roller coaster ride so far with a loss to Texas A&M after their matchup against McNeese. That loss was followed by an incredible 44-13 win over Prairie View A&M. Again, the Colonels suffered defeat as they took on Sam Houston State. OFFENSIVE NOTES: Sophomore Chase Fourcade threw for 213 yards and three touchdowns in the opening win over McNeese. He also rushed for 49 yards and scored in the fourth on a
19-yard run. The quarterback tossed for 248 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Colonel’s win over Prairie View A&M. Fourcade had a 62-yard touchdown pass to Mason Roberts in the first quarter and a 22-yarder to Dai’Jean Dixon in the third. It was his 10th 200-plus effort in his 14 career starts. Chase racked up 264 yards and a touchdown against Texas A&M; the touchdown pass was for 5 yards to tight-end Stephen LeBouef. He then hit Roberts for a 2-point conversion which tied the game at 14 with 12 minutes to go. Fourcade has already cracked the career top 10 passing list! He is number 8 on the list with 3,270 yards. In the victory against Prairie View, sophomore Jeremy Rounds made his first career appearance at running back rushing 11 times for 55 yards and a touchdown. Rounds scored on a 9-yard run to give Nicholls a 28-0 lead in the second quarter. Jeremy plays on the Colonel’s special teams as well. Sophomore running back Kyran Irving took over as feature back after Dontrell Taylor was injured at Texas A&M finishing with 62 yards rushing on a career-high 16 carries. Irvin rushed for career-high 113 yards and 2 touchdowns on 19 carries in his first career start against PVAMU. It was his second career 100-yard game. In opener against McNeese, Irving rushed for 17 yards on five carries. Junior wide receiver Damion Jeanpiere Jr. leads the offense with 361 yards receiving on nine receptions. Jeanpiere ranks 1st in FCS in receiving yards and yards per reception (40.1). In the Colonel’s season opener, he led the offense with 3 receptions for 145 yards and two touchdowns. He scored on a 62-yard pass in the first quarter and a 77yarder in the third. His last catch was on the final drive for six yards and a first down; on the next play, he drew a pass interference to put
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Nicholls in field goal range. Damion was named SLC Offensive Player of the Week for Week 2 after hauling in 5 receptions for 174 yards at Texas A&M. His 54-yard catch in the fourth quarter set up the Colonels’ game-tying touchdown. Freshman Dai’Jean Dixon recorded his first career reception at Texas A&M, going 23 yards on a screen following up with 3 receptions for 41 yards against PVAMU. Dixon hauled in first career touchdown on a 22yard pass. Junior Mason Roberts posted career-day against PVAMU with 4 receptions for 83 yards and his first career touchdown scoring on a 62-yard catch. Roberts had two key grabs at Texas A&M. He caught a 12-yard pass on fourth down to move the chains and had a highlight catch on a two-point try to tie the game in the fourth. DEFENSIVE NOTES: Senior defensive line Terrell Encalade ranks 12th in the FCS with 4.0 sacks. Encalade had two sacks in the opener at McNeese, one at Texas A&M and another vs. PVAMU. Junior Kenny Dotson ranks 21st in the FCS with 3.0 sacks. Dotson finished with 2.0 sacks vs. PVAMU, with one of them leading to a fumble and turnover Kenny also had a sack at Texas A&M. TCU transfer Tevin Lawson had a spectacular game against Texas A&M, finishing with 6 tackles with one for loss. Lawson came to Nicholls last season but sat out the year. At TCU, he played in 32 games for the Horned Frogs and totaled 32 tackles. At defensive tackle, seniors Lazarus Ona and Marcel Andry anchor the middle of the line. Ona is a four-year starter. Andry returned after appearing in 10 games in his first season with the Colonels. He was credited with a sack in the opener against McNeese. Redshirt sophomore Allen Pittman and junior Hezekiah White heads the group of linebackers. Pittman led the defense in tackles in first two games, highlighted by 16 at Texas A&M. In the win vs. McNeese, Allen had 9 tackles. For his performance at Texas A&M, he was named LSWA Defensive Player of the Week. White recorded his third career interception, setting up a touchdown that gave Nicholls a 34-29 lead in the fourth quarter against McNeese. Sophomore Evan Veron had a career-high 10 tackles and 0.5 sacks at Texas A&M. Veron had four stops against McNeese before being ejected in the first half. Evan had 6 stops vs. PVAMU.
and 49-yard field goals in the win over Prairie View. Nicholls picked up two weekly honors after their close contest with SEC’s Texas A&M. Damion Jeanpiere Jr. took the Southland’s Offensive Player of the Week after destroying the Aggie defense with 174 yards on five receptions. On defense, Allen Pittman racked up 16 tackles to take the LWSA’s weekly honor. After three games, Nicholls is 8th in the FCS with 12.0 sacks. The Colonels have had success scoring this season when inside the red zone, turning all 9 chances into points. Five of the trips have resulted in touchdowns. Nicholls is one of 14 teams in the FCS with a 100 percent conversion rate.
With Hezekiah White being injured, redshirt freshman Aquinda Steib experienced plenty of action at Texas A&M, finishing with 5 tackles. Junior Jonavon Lewis recorded his first career interception in the win over McNeese. With Nicholls trailing 16-7 in the 3rd, Lewis picked off a pass and with the help of a convoy of blockers, returned it 67 yards for a touchdown. Jonavon played in all 11 games last season and had 17 tackles and two pass breakups. IN OTHER COLOLEN NEWS: For two straight weeks, a Colonel was honored as K Lorran Fonseca earned Southland Special Teams Player of the Week. Fonseca had 47 www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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McNeese State Hitting Stride By: Jada Davis Football season for the McNeese State Cowboys started slow with their loss to Nicholls State. However, the Cowboys have come back with three back to back wins. It looks as though McNeese will have a much better season than last year, which ended with six wins and five losses. The Cowboys currently average 156.3 rushing yards per game and 253.75 passing yards per game. They have a total of 1,640 total offense yards. The team has collectively scored 18 touchdowns and has a 100% fourthdown conversion percentage. In their matchup against Nicholls, the Cowboys surpassed the Colonels in total offensive yards with 432. 194 of the yards were accumulated on the ground compared to 91 yards for Nicholls. Quarterback James Tabary ended the night with 25 of 42 passes for 238 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Wide receiver Tavarious Battiste paced 10 players who caught passes with six grabs for 78 yards and two scores while Crawley led the team in rushing with 53 yards on one carry. On special teams, McNeese's Kyree McLean blocked two punts on the night. Trent Manuel hit 3 of 4 field goals, all in the first half, from yards of 29, 21 and 25 yards. "This is just the first game of the season," said McLean who also had two tackles on the night. "We'll get better from this. There's still a lot of the season left to play." McLean was correct because the Cowboys made a comeback with their victory over Florida Tech. Running back Justin Pratt ran for 83 yards and scored three touchdowns, two rushing and one receiving, while Benjamin Jones put up 82 yards and a score. Jones secured the game with a 69-yard touchdown run as McNeese posted a 42-21 win over the Panthers. The win evened the Cowboys record at 1-1 on the season as Florida Tech fell to 1 -1. Quarterback James Tabary completed 21 of 29 passes for 249 yards and two scores. Wide receiver Kent Shelby led the team with six catches on the night, extending his streak to 26 consecutive games with making at least one reception. This victory gave McNeese wins in 13 straight home openers and improved its all-time home record to 202-90-5. The Cowboys moved on to defeat the Alcorn State Braves, 3427, in what seemed to be a difficult battle for them. "That was a tough game," said head coach Lance Guidry. "I'm proud of the way our guys fought to the very end. It wasn't pretty and mistakes were made, but we never quit and we got the W." Running back Benjamin Jones picked up 14 yards on the first play on a pass from Tabary. Tabary then rushed for 6 yards and connected with Shelby for 9 more yards to set the ball up at the 33 and
leading to the game-winner. Both teams combined for 865 yards in the game with the Cowboys racking up 446 yards and Alcorn 416. All of those coming through the air as the Cowboys' defense held the Braves to zero rushing yards on 19 carries. Tabary completed 24 of 34 passes for 310 yards and four touchdowns. Ross caught five passes for 72 yards while Crawley made five grabs for 52 yards and a touchdown. Cyron Sutton and Shelby each had touchdown catches. Sutton’s catch was a 24-yard score with 10:59 to play in the second quarter to give the Cowboys a 14-7 lead. Justin Pratt rushed for 114 yards on 13 carries with a long of 44 yards as McNeese's running game rushed for 136 yards and a 5.2 yards per carry for the game. Wide receiver Kent Shelby reached over the back of an Alcorn State defender to haul in the game-winning touchdown pass from James Tabary with 26 seconds to play. This was an incredible play to end a tough battle and secure the win for the Cowboys. The momentum from winning back to back games must have resonated with the Cowboys’ defense as they returned home to defeat yet another opponent, Houston Baptist. In their first time ever meeting, McNeese led HBU in total offensive yard with 306 total yards while the Huskies collected just 132. "Defensively, I
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thought we played outstanding," said head coach Lance Guidry. "We had our backs up again the wall over and over again. We showed DWA tonight. Just outstanding performance by our defense." Hamm led all rushers with 74 yards on 16 carries and posted a 4.6 yards per carry average. Tabary completed 17 of 30 passes for 184 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. He left the game late with a hand injury, but returned on the next series. DWA (Defense With Attitude) held the Huskies to 87 yards rushing and 45 through the air.
IN OTHER NEWS: James Tabary was voted Southland Conference Offensive Player of the Week after his spectacular performance in the Cowboys’ match-up against Alcorn State. Tabary, a native of New Orleans, was also named honorable mention for STATS National Offensive Player of the Week for his efforts. With his passing yardage topping 300, James set a new McNeese career record with his fifth 300-yard passing game in 14 played in the blue October 21st. Then, they will meet with Central Arkansas in Conand gold. He also extended his streak to seven straight when way on October 28th. The Cowboys will take on both Southeastthrowing for 200 or more yards. ern and Northwestern State at Cowboy Stadium on November 4th With four games in the books, the Cowboys still have to take and 11th. They are lastly scheduled to compete against Lamar in on Stephen F. Austin on September 30th in Nacogdoches, Tex- Beaumont, Texas on November 18th. All of these games are as. The team will travel to Texas again to compete against Abi- Southland match-ups. McNeese has won 14 Southland Conferlene Christian on October 7. McNeese will return home for ence championships which is a league record. So, what do you their match-up with Incarnate Ward for their homecoming on think; will McNeese be winning another one this year?
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Grambling State Tigers Climb Up in Rankings By: Jasmin Brown Grambling State University’s football team continues to climb up the Football Championship Subdivision rankings. The Tigers (3-1 overall, 1-0 SWAC) picked up their third straight win with a 38 to 6 victory over Mississippi Valley State in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Grambling State has jumped up two more spots in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Coaches Top 25 Poll to number 19 and moved up one spot in the STATS FCS Top 25 Poll to number 21. The Tigers remain in the top spot in the SBN Sports Network Black College Football Poll, while moving up one spot to number 2 in the BOXTOROW Coaches and Media Poll. GSU, 3-1 overall, 1-0 SWAC, steps out of conference play this past week as the Tigers will participate in the Chicago Football Classic against Clark Atlanta. The Tigers have multiple players who are making their names known and that are being recognized. Kicker, Marc Orozco currently ranks first in the Football Championship Subdivision and Southwestern Athletic Conference in field goal percentage. Grambling’s running back, Martez Carter is ranked in the SWAC in several categories, including all-purpose yards (fifth nationally), rushing yards per game and scoring. Standout defensive back, De’Aumante Johnson recorded three first half interceptions as the Grambling State University defense came up big with a victory over Mississippi Valley State in this Southwestern Athletic Conference opener for both teams at Rice-Totten Stadium. In addition to this, De'Aumante Johnson was named the SWAC's Defensive Player of the Week, the SWAC College Madness Defensive Player of the Week, STATS Defensive Player of the Week- Honorable Mention and Louisiana Sports Writers Association Defensive Player of the Week after his outstanding performance against Mississippi Valley. Johnson accounted for eight points, four solo tackles and three interceptions, including a 30-yard interception return for a score. De'Aumante Johnson also was added to the Black College Football Hall of Fame Player of the Year Watch List. The tone during the Grambling vs MVSU was set from the start as Johnson’s pick off of Mississippi, which gave the Tigers a 7-0 lead just four minutes into the contest. With the offense struggling, the defense picked apart Mississippi Valley State early on as the Delta Devils failed to get a first down in the opening quarter. The Tigers picked up their second score of the night with 3 minutes remaining in the first quarter, when Marc Orozco kicked a 36-yard field goal to extend the Grambling State lead to 10-0. GSU then picked up two more points on a safety, its second in as
many weeks, which extended their lead to 12-0 with 13:44 left in the second quarter. The Tigers wrapped up the first half of the game with 10 points in the final 10 minutes. Marc Orozco kicked a 37-yard field goal with 9:58 left to push the advantage to 15-0! Following, Geremy Hickbottom connected with Devante Davis for a 23-yard touchdown pass with 1:43 remaining to extend the margin to 22-0. Grambling State put the game out of reach with 11:42 left in the third quarter as Nicholas Black ran untouched for a 21-yard touchdown to give the Tigers
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a commanding 29-0 lead. James Crosby’s 4-yard touchdown run cut the margin to 29-6, but the Tigers blocked the extra point and Johnson returned the ball for the two-point conversion. Grambling State put their final touches on the night on a Lyndemian Brooks touchdown run to give the Tigers a 38-6 victory. Overall, Mississippi Valley State University had eight yards on 13 plays in the opening frame. Redshirt senior quarterback DeVante Kincade is currently listed as a day to day for GSU after suffering a lower leg injury, therefore freshman Geremy Hickbottom had to step in. In regards to Hickbottom, coach Fobbs said, “I don’t think we can put everything on his shoulders, but we do have to help him and aid him in his success at such an early age because he’s a freshman. He has the body, he can throw, run. He’s probably not as much of a gifted runner as DeVante, which not too many people are, but he has a chance to be a really good special football player and special quarterback, not only that a special leader for our program.” Quarterback, Geremy Hickbottom finished the game 5-for-14 passing for 38 yards with a touchdown pass to DeVante Davis. Hickbottom also rushed for 28 yards. Running back, Dre’ Fusilier rushed four times for 83 yards, including a 53-yard run. Plus, four passes for 30 yards were received by wide receiver Darrell Clark. The Grambling State Tigers finished with 247 total yards of offense, including 195 on the ground. Whereas, Mississippi Valley State registered 254 yards and were held to minus 82 yards rushing. Ja’Terious Pouncy led the Grambling Tigers with 10 tackles, including eight solo stops. Then, linebacker De’Arius Christmas registered six tackles during the game, including two for a loss of 19 yards.
State to open SWAC play, while Clark Atlanta began Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) action with a 31-7 victory over Lane. "Clark Atlanta is a program that can be scary," Grambling State head coach Broderick Fobbs said. "They're going to always have some guys that can run. They're going to have some playmakers, and we will have to make sure we play Grambling Tiger football in order to defeat them." Keep the winning streak going Tigers!
Grambling’s head coach Broderick Fobbs said, “We didn’t play well. We had a lot of guys out and sometimes when you have a lot of guys out, it’s hard to find that chemistry. I thought we did a good job to keep fighting regardless of the situation. The defense was stellar tonight. They did not only an awesome job of stopping them, but scoring points as well.” As Grambling stepped out of SWAC play for a week, they’ll visit Soldier Field on Saturday, September 30 to battle Clark Atlanta. The Tigers and Panthers go into the contest with identical 3-1 overall records and off victories the previous weekend. Grambling State picked up a 38-6 road win against Mississippi Valley www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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Southern Jaguars Push Forward By: Jasmin Brown to understand we can’t make a good play, then make a bonehead play. I think he’s going to grow up from it. He’ll be better from it. It means something to him.” The Jaguars approached this matchup differently with some new starters in place. Sophomore offensive lineman, Jodeci Harris earned his first career start at right tackle in place of Skyler Prol. The two rotated in and out at right tackle throughout the game. Wide receiver Stacy Piro also started, getting the nod ahead of Dontrell Brown as one of Southern’s outside receivers. During the game, Southern’s Devon Benn rushed for 134 yards and a touchdown. On the first series of the game, The Jags moved the chains three times, but were held to a 35-yard field goal attempt. Southern led 3-0 with 10:27 left in the first quarter. After an interception, SU became threatening again and had it on the Alcorn seven-yard line when Muhammad intercepted a pass in the center of the field and ran it back 71 yards. The Braves tied the game3-3 on the 39-yard field goal.
The Southern University Jaguars suffered a loss against Alcorn State losing 48-31. Senior wide receiver, Randall Menard crumpled to the ground and stayed down in the third quarter with an injury. The extent of the injury was unclear but it was a lower leg injury. Although, Menard wasn’t able to finish the game because he was carried out on a stretcher, he still finished the game with five catches for 47 yards both of which were season highs. Southern’s tight end, Dennis Craig experienced a breakout performance, hauling in three catches for 97 yards. One included a 48-yard touchdown on which he outran Alcorn State’s defense. However, Craig was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct for celebrating after the touchdown, setting Southern back on the ensuing kick. “He’s a special talent,” coach Odums said. “We already knew it. He brings something to the table. He’s an athletic tight end and he’s only going to get better. We’ve just got
The Jaguars regained the lead 10-3 early on in the second quarter. SU added on with a one-yard touchdown rush by Benn to go up 17-3. The Jags started the drive with great field possession after a 42-yard punt return by Danny Johnson put the ball on the Alcorn24. However, the Jags left way for Alcorn State to score cutting the deficit to 17-10. The Jaguars quickly responded with a 48-yard touchdown pass from Howard to Dennis Craig. The screen pass to the right came on the fourth play of the series as SU went back up 24-10 halfway through the second. On Alcorn’s very next series, the Braves started with good field position and took advantage with a four-play, 37-yard drive. The play that scored was an 11-yeard touchdown reception to Warford. Southern dove back into the game 41-31 after taking advantage of a miscue by the Braves. A bad snap was fumbled, recovered by the Jaguars and return 19 yards for a touchdown by Aaron Tiller. The Jags got a stop defensively and tried to keep chipping away but a 28-yard field goal attempt was blocked by Alcorn. As Southern tried to make one last push late but on a 4th and 7, Howard was sacked by Brookes leaving sophomore Kwanzi Johnson with under three minutes left. In addition to this setback, Turner had a 49-yard touchdown rush through the middle as the Braves were trying to milk the clock. Upping the score to 48-31 with less than two minutes remaining. According to coach Odums, Southern needs to learn how
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to switch the momentum and they haven’t been doing that. “We didn’t make enough plays and I take my hat off to them because they did” said Odums. If there was a positive from Southern’s third consecutive loss, it was Austin Howard, who threw a football Friday for the first time in two weeks and didn’t know he would officially make his return until before kickoff Saturday afternoon. “We just went with him, and I thought he gave us the best chance to win,” said Southern coach Dawson Odums. “I applaud his effort tonight. He’s not 100 percent, but he gave us a chance. You could tell that 80, 85 (percent), whatever he is, he gave us a chance to be successful.” Howard navigated the Jaguars to their first passing touchdowns of the season with a 23-yard strike to running back Devon Benn in the second quarter and a 48-yard screen to tight end Dennis Craig, giving SU their most successful outing this season. Although Howard isn’t fully recovered, he was well enough to pump some life into the Jaguars’ offense. In the previous two weeks, the Jaguars only had 17 first downs. In which, they threw for 78 yards against Southern Miss and 65 against UT-San Antonio. “It’s positive that our offense can score the football. We know that," Odums said. "Now we have got to get our defense to stop the football. If
we can do that, we’ve got a chance to be successful." Odums made a gameday decision to start Howard instead of backup Bubba McDaniel, and it paid off early. Southern gouged the Braves for 22 first downs as Howard connected with six different wideouts. “He’s a competitor, man,” Odums said. “He’s got the kind of fight that it takes to win football games.” Up next, the Southern Jaguars take on Fort Valley State. The good news is it is hard to see this game going anywhere but in Southern’s favor, since Division II Fort Valley State will be playing up a level in classification. It also lost its top offensive and defensive players from a year ago. The downside is for fans griping about the Jaguars having only four home games, a game against the reigning Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championships isn’t as appealing. However, after three consecutive weeks on the road against tough teams, this may be the break Southern needs to boost their confidence.
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LC Head Coach Justin Charles:
However while the team as a whole was unable to pull out a win against This the first season for Justin Charles as head TLU there were some players who coach of the Wildcats. He spent the last five years had a great night. D'Ondre Joservings as the defensive coordinator for LC under seph finished the game with 277 Coach Dennis Dunn. Charles is a member of the passing yards on 17-of-27 attempts Louisiana College Athletic Hall of Fame and has with three touchdowns and one been on the coaching staff in some capacity since interception. Shedrick Davis led all his graduation from LC in 2005. receivers with eight catches for 120 This season, the Louisiana College Wildcats have yards and a score, and D.J. Latigotten off to a rocky start. Their only win this sea- no had a big night with seven grabs son so far was in week one against Wayland Baptist for 117 yards. Orel Ledet when they won by a score of 59-20. Since that Jr. and Ryan DeMattie both had 11 game the Wildcats have been outscored 126 points tackles in the game. Ledet added an to 75 in their three losses. However any time a interception for a touchdown, as program undergoes a change like a new head well as a forced fumble, and a sack. coach, the players have to regain some of the moThe Wildcats return to Pineville for mentum and team unity they had previously. their only home game in the month of October as they celebrate Homecoming Week. LC welcomes McMurry to Wildcat Stadium for a 6pm kickoff. Visit lacollege.edu for a full list of activities surrounding the Homecoming week on campus.
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Demons trying to rev up the run game
700 voters on HeroSports.com/FCS have ranked it No. 3 among Northwestern led the Southland Conference last season in rush- 12 nominees. Watson has 7 receptions. Three are TDs, with the ing (190.5 ypg) but is 7th this season at only 111.5 ypg. The De- first coming on the year’s third play at Louisiana Tech (52 yards), mons lost first-team All-Southland RB De’Mard Llorens to gradu- and a 25-yarder vs. Lamar. He averages 30 yards per catch. Waration, and second -team All-Southland center Cameron Hussey, ren Junior cornerback Ike Warren clinched the outcome vs. Labut returned three OL starters (four including TE Lucas Morgan) mar with an interception at the Demons’ 20 with 1:01 remainand eight letter winners from tackle to tackle. NSU netted only ing. It was his 4th interception in 5 games. He didn’t have a pick 67 yards on 34 rushes vs. SLU. vs. SLU last week. Warren returned from an ankle injury late last season and picked off a pair vs. Sam Houston State, then anothPassing production trending toward near-record pace er at Stephen F. Austin. He had a couple near misses before The Demons are averaging 250.2 yards passing, 4th in the South- snatching the last pass by Lamar. land. That’s trending toward 2,752 yards in 11 games, not far What To Watch from the school single-season record set in 1998 of 2,986 yards (14 games, 213.3 ypg). The single-season average record is 260.3 Now that Northwestern State has in 2014. If he maintains his current 213.5 pass ypg, J.D. Almond began Southland play, the Dewould be 5th on the school single-season yardage list with 2,349. mons have a chance to turn their season around. J.D. Almond is Spectacular Almond-to-Watson TD catching national attention having a career year, can he keep The 74-yards-plus touchdown passing play from J.D. Almond to up the pace? Will NSU figure out Jaylen Watson (officially, it went 74 yards, but adding in the side- how to close out the remainder of line-to sideline pathway Watson covered after the catch, we’re the games? Fork ‘em demons! guessing he covered about 130 yards) raised eyebrows. The @NCAA_FCS Top Plays ranked it at No. 4 on their Top 5. Nearly
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By Jada Davis I recently sat down with the quarterback for the Tulane Green Wave. The 6’3” and 220 lb. quarterback is heralded as a true dual threat quarterback and has been making a splash in New Orleans, Louisiana. Although this is his first year with the Green Wave (he transferred in for his junior year) he will be a great addition to the team. Last year he had 1,338 yards passing and 9 touchdowns and ran for 615 yards with 7 touchdowns at Independence Community College. I want to start by getting to know your background first. Where are you from? “I’m originally from Humble, Texas. I attended Kansas State and from Kansas I transferred to Independence Community College in Kansas”. When and how did you begin playing football? “I started playing football when I was 5 or 6, I believe. I was watching the Rose Bowl game, Texas vs. USC. I remember paying closer attention to the quarterbacks and how they made plays for the teams. Ever since then I just wanted to be a quarterback. ?” What do you like about playing football? “The biggest thing I like about playing football is, it’s a sport that you can go out there and have fun and be able to make plays. With me being a quarterback, I have to possess great leadership and make the right calls for my team. Basically, the making the plays part is always fun for me; it’s what I enjoy the most about the game.”
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Photo by Tulane Athletics
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Would you say playing football has always been easy for you? “I feel like football is not easy because you’re competing all the time. However, if you look at it as hard; then you’re not having fun. So, I just look at is as although you must work hard, but you also have to go out there and have fun. You have to put in work if you want to be the best, to be good, great, however you want to call it. I’ve had to overcome a few obstacles to get to Tulane and be able to become the starting quarterback at this university.” How does it feel to be the starter in your first season with the Wave? “It feels good, honestly. Coming in the spring I had to work; we were all competing of course. It feels great to be the starter.” How did it feel being named Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Offensive Player for week 1? “That was a great experience. I really appreciate the fact that they awarded that to me. That’s one of my greatest accomplishments. That was big for me to receive that”. How would you describe the transition from a junior college to a division 1 football program? “Simply put, it’s really different. First of all, I would say playing junior college ball is generally unorganized. It’s just different. As far as being at a university, they have more innovated training methods. And, it’s more organized in my opinion”. What brought you to Tulane?
together. That’s what I like about it.”
“Willie Fritz and the rest of the coaching staff did a good job of recruiting me. At first I wasn’t familiar with Tulane, but the way they recruited me they stayed on me. I didn’t want to make the same mistake I made going to Kansas State and not being able to play as much. I felt like my family and I had a really good relationship with the coaching staff, so that played the biggest part in my decision to come to Tulane University.
What are you currently studying in school?
What is it like playing for Tulane?
“I’m studying Public Relations”. What are your goals after college? “I want to be an NFL quarterback of course. If things don’t work out with that, I still want to be able to work with kids. I want to own a couple of football facilities and use my knowledge and skills to train kids. I want to stay with football because I have a lot of love for the sport .”
“It’s exciting. I enjoy being able to play somewhere that’s not What are you doing to prepare yourself for the NFL? too far from home. New Orleans is not that far from Houston. Plus, I have a lot of family members out here. So, it’s definitely “I try to be the first to watch film so I can be ahead of my game. Let me take you through my day a little bit: after practice I get extra exciting to play for Tulane”. work on the field, whether it’s throwing or it’s running, whatever I Do you like the New Orleans culture? can do 10 to 15 minutes after practice. After my busy class sched“Yes, I like the New Orleans culture. It’s like a family culture in ule, I come in and watch some more film for 1 to 1.5 hours. I also my opinion. Being from Houston, everything is pretty much focus on keeping my body healthy. In my workouts, I include everyspaced out compared to New Orleans, everything is close thing from jumping rope, sit-ups, push-ups, and many other techniques. I just put in as much extra effort www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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as I can to make sure I am prepared for the next game. Then I do it all over again. I’m teaching myself to go the extra mile, above and beyond. These are qualities I feel I will need to be successful in the NFL.” What are some of your goals for the football team this season? “Our record is currently 2-2. Of course my goal for us at the beginning of the season was to go undefeated. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. So now my goal for us is a bowl game, at minimum. That’s just minimum though. My goal for us it get to the AAC championship, play in the championship game and get in a big bowl game”. What are some of your personal goals for this season? “Some of my personal goals, I want to be able to break some records at Tulane. Other than that, I’m pretty much focused on doing whatever I need to do for my team. With me being injured during two games it’s kind of hard for me to hit personal records. I’m trying to do whatever I can do to provide
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and win games with my team”. I attend Tulane’s home games and I’ve noticed that you’re a poised player. You don’t crack under pressure; what keeps you focused during the game? “Like I said, when I was growing up watching certain quarterbacks being able to come in and make significant plays at crunch -time motivates me as a quarterback now. I know I was young but I learned that you should just live in these moments. You should be locked in, focused, and be able to make plays for your team because they are counting on your leadership. At tough moments in the game, that’s when it is time to be that leader
my teammates the ball. If they need me to run, I am able to take off as well”. Who is your favorite target to throw the ball to? “My favorite target would probably be Encalade. We do a lot of work on and off the field. We met the first day I came here through working out and we formed a good relationship from that. But I have a lot of teammates that I like to connect with, including Charles Jones and Sherman Badie, just to name a few.” With a 55% completion rating, what are some steps you are taking to improve that this season?
and not fold under pressure”. Would you rather run first or pass first? “I’m a pass-first quarterback but if I have to run I will.” Is there a reason you would rather pass first? “I like to give the ball to my teammates. That’s why I chose to play quarterback. I like to be able to stand in the pocket and give
“Just being able to go out in every game and take advantage of every opportunity to get that ball in the air and connect it. I’m focusing on the best way to get the ball to my teammates so they can score that touchdown or get the first down to keep our chances alive. I continue to analyze what I need to fix on my end to improve that rating”.
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Photo by Phil Aucoin
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How would you describe Willie Fritz as a coach? “Coach Fritz is a very exciting coach. I’ve never played for a coach that adds that excitement and high drive the way he does. Coach Fritz emphasizes little aspects of the game that a lot of coaches don’t really take the time to emphasize, like stripping the ball, being disciplined, and basic fundamentals. I feel like Willie Fritz is a really good coach and I’m glad I’m playing for him. Is there anything important you feel should be mentioned in this article about yourself? “I just want you to include #AllGasNoBreaks”. I like that. So would you like to elaborate on what that means? “All Gas No Breaks just means pedal to the metal. You can’t stop; you’re working all the time. That’s what that means. That’s my headline; it’s been my motto since high school. That’s just what I go by”
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The Season So Far At 3-2 for this season the bulldogs are off to an interesting start this season with their conference play at 1-0. However in recent years LA Tech has had a good month of October. More specifically the Bulldogs are 14-2 in the month of October under Coach Skip Holtz. Additionally LA Tech has traditionally outscored opponents 615-363 during this fortuitous month. The loyal fans of Tech will be hoping this trend continues this year. LA TECH OFFENSE AMONG THE BEST IN FBS Since Skip Holtz took over as head coach in 2013, LA Tech has been known to put up more than its fair share of points with its high-scoring offense. It is no secret the Bulldogs have been putting up big numbers offensively, and it continues to reflect in the win column with LA Tech putting together three consecutive nine-win seasons. From 2014 to 2016, the ’Dogs have recorded 19,093 offensive yards (11th in FBS), an average of 465.7 yards per game (17th in FBS) and 190 offensive touchdowns, which is the fifth-most in the nation over that span. Impressive Fourth Known for their impressive defense in general, LA tech has put up some impressive stats this season. Four of its five opponents have been held to zero points in the fourth quarter. Over the last three games the Bulldog defense only allowed an average of 18.3 points per game and have only allowed 2 passing touchdowns. Additionally during that same time frame, LA Tech has had 14 tackles for a loss, seven sacks, eleven pass break-ups, eight quarterback hurries, and four forced fumbles. Only being five games into the season these statistics are impressive. Clearly the Dogs are defending their yard this season. Jaylon Ferguson has certainly played a part in this record with 23.5 sacks in his career so far. He currently ranks second in Louisiana Tech history behind Walter Johnson, who totaled 38 career sacks from 1983-86.
# EVER LOYAL BE www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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JAQWIS DANCY, NOW CANCER-FREE, SCORES IN HIS RETURN Four months after being diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin lymphoma and enduring chemotherapy treatments, Louisiana Tech sophomore running back Jaqwis Dancy learned he was cancerfree on Feb. 9, 2017 and officially began his comeback. In the 2017 season-opener versus Northwestern State, Dancy's return was complete after the redshirt sophomore forced his way into the end zone at the end of the third quarter for a 4-yard rushing touchdown to give LA Tech a 31-24 lead over the Demons. It was the first touchdown of his college career. After being diagnosed with the treatable form of cancer in early October of 2016, Dancy immediately went to work with chemotherapy sessions every few weeks at St. Jude’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, before receiving a phone call one evening in early February with the news that he is officially cancer-free. In the weeks that followed, Dancy underwent a couple rounds of radiation to ensure there were no cancerous cells detected and now he is back in the red and blue ready for the start of the 2017 season. “It felt amazing when I heard the news that I am cancer-free,” Dancy said. “It was something I have been waiting to hear since I was diagnosed and I couldn't wait to share my happiness with all my teammates. I especially want to thank the LA Tech family and everyone who supported me in this fight. The support I have received since the beginning has been amazing. My biggest goal right now is to get back on the field with my teammates.” While Dancy was fighting the illness in Memphis, the Louisiana Tech Football team kept him in their thoughts as the Bulldogs wore special decals on their helmets supporting Dancy for the remainder of the 2016 season. A native of Junction City, Arkansas, Dancy saw action in all 13 games as a freshman in 2015, while totaling 17 kickoff returns for 296 yards. He was used primarily on special teams throughout the 2015 season, but was sidelined the first half of the 2016 season due to an ongoing ankle injury. Hodgkin lymphoma is a form of cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system, according to the American Cancer Society. Midway through spring practices, Dancy suited up and was able to make his grand return to the gridiron during the 2017 LA Tech Spring Game. He continued to regain weight and his strength during summer workouts and was fully ready to return for the start of fall camp.
LA Tech RB Jaqwis Dancy, who was diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin's Lymphoma in October 2016, was greeted by head coach Skip Holtz after scoring the go-ahead touchdown in LA Tech's win over Northwestern State . (Picture by La Tech Athletics)
um connecting with Buster Herren from five yards out against East Carolina on Sept. 28, 1968. Tech went on to win the game 35-7. QUARTERBACK U In what will mark a stark difference from years past, Louisiana Tech entered 2017 with only one start at the collegiate level from the quarterback group (J’Mar Smith), but there are big shoes to fill in 2017. LA Tech is one of only six schools in the country (along with WKU, Cal, Baylor, Texas Tech and Hawai’i) to have back-to-back 4,000-yard passing quarterbacks (Jeff Driskel 4,033 in 2015; Ryan Higgins - 4,617 in 2016). What is even more impressive is the fact that the Bulldogs have the second-most 4,000-yard passing quarterbacks in college football history (4 Tim Rattay, Ryan Higgins, Colby Cameron, Jeff Driskel) behind only Texas Tech, which has had seven in its history.
JOE AILLET IS A TOUGH PLACE TO PLAY It always nice to be home and Louisiana Tech has experienced recent success in the friendly confines of Joe Aillet Stadium. LA Tech has posted a 92-36 record at home since joining the ranks of Division I-A/FBS, a winning percentage of 72 percent. Hall of Famer and four-time Super Bowl Champion Terry Bradshaw threw the first touchdown pass in the history of Joe Aillet Stadi www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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Savage. Dallas, a transfer from Southwest College, won the starting assignment at boundary corner during preseason camp, and Straughter enters the season opener listed NO. 2 on the depth chart at field corner. ULM leads the Sun Belt and ranks No. 14 in the NCAA FBS in sacks (12 for 70 yards), averaging 3.0 per game. The Warhawk defense recorded five sacks (25 yards) in the 2017 Sun Belt opener at Louisiana Lafayette. ULM produced just 17 sacks (147 yards) during the entire 2016 season. Players of Interest While there are many stand out players on the ULM team, there are a few exemplary players who deserve special recognition in the season so far. Junior Marcus Green, who returned three kickoffs for 115 yards (38.3 avg.) including an 82-yard run back for a touchdown in ULM’s 51-43 win over Costal Carolina, has been named the Sun Belt Special Teams Player of the Week. It marked ULM’s first kickoff return for a TD since Courtney Davis returned the opening kickoff 89 yards for a score against Grambling State in 2013. Green compiled 127 combined kick return yards (punts and kickoffs) vs. CCU and accounted for 181 all-purpose yards. Sensational in the Sun Belt ULM leads the Sun Belt and is ranked 32nd nationally in the FBS in rushing offense, averaging 214.2 yards per game. The War Hawks have recorded three strait 200+ rushing yard games for the first time since 2012. ULM also leads the Sun Belt in rushing touchdowns with 15. ULM also leads the Sun Belt and ranks 14th in the FBS in sacks with 12, averaging 3 per game. The War Hawks recorded five sacks in the Sun Belt opener against the UL Ragin Cajuns. ULM only produced 17 sacks for the entire 2016 season. ULM’s 2017 recruiting class was ranked No. 1 in the Sun Belt, according to Rivals.com. The Warhawks signed four 3-star prospects, including cornerbacks JJ Dallas and Corey Straughter, running back Jakyle Holmes and offensive lineman Joquarius
Junior Ben Luckett rushed seven times for 129 yards and two touchdowns in ULM’s 51-43 victory over Coastal Carolina, as the Warhawks improved 2-0 in the Sun Belt standings. Luckett averaged better than 18 yards per carry while recording the fourth 100– yard rushing game of his career. His 53-yard run set up his own 1 yard TD run early in the second quarter that gave ULM the lead for good at 17-15. Luckett’s 56-yard TD run early in the third quarter gave the Warhawks a 38-22 lead. Junior linebacker David Griffith recorded a team-high nine tackles (7 solos, 2 assists) in ULM’s 51-43 win over Coastal Carolina, with two resulting in losses (8 yards) including a 4-yard sack. Griffith has recorded at least two tackles for loss in each of ULM’s last three games. His quick responses and vision allow Griffith to be a playmaker for the Warhawks.
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Young Warhawks With only eight seniors on its 2017 roster, there’s no question ULM features one of the youngest teams in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision. Saturday’s probably starting lineup against Texas State lists just five seniors, including two on the offensive side of the football and three on defense (offense: left guard Frank Sutton Jr. and wide receiver Brian Williams; defense: defensive end Caleb Tucker, free safety Roland Jenkins and field corner Juwan Offray). The young team is making some headway at 2-2 for the season. As the team continue to mature there is a very bright future for the Warhawks. ULM fans should be excited to see what the rest of the season will hold. # TALONS UP
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NEW SURFACE FOR CAJUN FIELD Louisiana’s 2017 season-opener against Southeastern Louisiana marked the first contest for the Ragin’ Cajuns on the new Matrix Turf surface. The previous synthetic surface, which was installed in 2008, was replaced with the same surface used at the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium. Hellas Construction, based in Austin, Texas, installed the new surface in August. CAJUNS ADD CINCY TRANSFER GERACI AT PUNTER Looking to replace Ray Guy Award semifinalist Steven Coutts at punter, Louisiana picked up former Cincinnati punter Sam Geraci as a graduate transfer. Geraci played three seasons with the Bearcats where he averaged 41.5 yards per punt in three seasons with 67 punts placed inside the opponent’s 20yard line. Geraci averaged 46.3 yards per attempt in 2015 with 17 attempts of 50 yards or more. He averaged 40.0 yards per attempt in 2016, with 37 punts resulting in fair catches and 31 attempts landing inside the 20-yard line. HOMEGROWN CAJUNS As with most schools, Louisiana has placed a heavy emphasis on recruiting players within its state borders as 58 players on the roster, including 27 from the nine-parish Acadiana region, hail from the state of Louisiana. Fifteen players on the current roster come from Lafayette with 19 coming the talent-rich New Orleans metro area.
Junior transfer Andre Nunez had a career day in the double overtime loss to ULM passing for two touchdowns and 287 yards while also rushing for a TD. He also rushed for 28 yards on 12 carries. Nunez completed 143 of 234 passes (61.1 percent) for 1,723 yards and 17 touchdowns as a redshirt sophomore at Iowa Western Community College.
THE BOOK OF ELI: CHAPTER 2
The Ragin’ Cajuns will use a number of running backs this season in an effort to replace Louisiana record holder Elijah McGuire. Trey Ragas has recorded a touchdown in each of the Cajuns first four games of the season to lead the squad with four. Ragas ranks third in the Sun Belt Conference averaging 93.8 yards per game. He also ranks third in the league in and rushing TDs and fourth in total rushing yards (375). Elijah Mitchell ranks third in the Sun Belt Conference in scoring per game averaging 7.5 points per game. His five TDs is tied for third in the conference. Mitchell rushed for a pair of touchdowns against ULM to become the second Ragin’ Cajuns player this season to rush for two TDs in a game joining Jordan Davis. Mitchell led Louisiana in
With the departure of four-year letter winner Elijah McGuire at running back, a new chapter begins this season as true freshman Elijah Mitchell. Wearing the same number (15) that McGuire wore for his final three seasons, Mitchell carried a team-high 11 times for 56 yards and a touchdown in a seasonopening win over Southeastern Louisiana. Mitchell added a pair of TDs in Louisiana’s game at Tulsa on Sept. 9, scoring on a 20-yard run in the second quarter and hauling in a 19-yard pass from Jordan Davis to open the second half.
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rushing against the Warhawks picking up 107 yards on 13 carries to pass the century mark for the first time in a contest. Ragas wasn’t far from reaching the 100-yard mark against ULM totaling 91 yards on 17 carries with a TD. Ragas led Louisiana in rushing in the first three games of the season.
Currently four players - Barnes, Malone, Jackson and Ja’Marcus Bradley - have all recorded 100-yard receiving games in their careers for the Ragin’ Cajuns. FORMER DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR JAMES WILLIS REJOINS CAJUNS AS ANALYST
Former defensive coordinator James Willis rejoined the Ragin’ Cajuns program as a defensive analyst during the team’s open date and will Under first-year offensive coordinator Will Hall, Louisiana be in the booth beginning with Louisiana’s game at Idaho on Oct. 7. has been perfect through the first four games when enter- Willis served as defensive coordinator for Louisiana from 2013-14, ing the red zone. Louisiana, which is one of 12 FBS teams helping lead the Ragin’ Cajuns to a pair of bowl games. He left after that are perfect in red zone opportunities this season, finthe 2014 season to become a defensive assistant/linebackers coach ished 8-for-8 (7 TDs, 1 FG) against ULM and was 7-for-7 (6 for the NFL’s New Orleans Saints. A former Auburn standout and sevTDs, 1 FG) at Tulsa. In 22 trips inside the opponent’s 20-yard en-year veteran in the NFL, Willis worked as an assistant at Rhode line, the Ragin’ Cajuns have scored all 22 times with 20 Island, Temple, Alabama, Auburn and Texas Tech before joining the scores coming via touchdown (13 rushing, 7 passing). The Ragin’ Cajuns program in early 2013. 20 touchdowns scored by Louisiana is tied with Notre Dame HUDSPETH HEADS THE SUN BELT COACHING FRATERNITY for the most TDs scored in the red zone this season. Now in his seventh year at Louisiana, head coach Mark Hudspeth is RAGIN’ CAJUNS RECEIVERS IN ELITE GROUP the dean of the Sun Belt Conference coaching fraternity, having taken Louisiana is one of eight FBS schools to have three players over the reins of the Ragin’ Cajuns program in 2011. Hudspeth, in his record 100 receiving yards in a game during the 2017 sea14th season as a head coach, spent seven years as head coach at son. Keenan Barnes (at Tulsa, at Texas A&M), Ryheem North Alabama and was an assistant at five schools, including FBS Malone (at Tulsa) and Jarrod Jackson (vs.ULM) have all sur- programs Navy and Mississippi State. passed the 100-yard receiving mark in games this season. CAJUNS OFFENSE “IN THE ZONE”
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The Lions came out of the gate shocking south Louisiana. During opening weekend, the Lions traveled to in state rival, University of Louisiana and loose on the final play of the game-a failed two point conversion returned for a touchdown.
with junior Jariah Tolbert, junior Nih-Jer Jackson, sophomore Bransen Schwebel, sophomore Jacq’co Price, freshman Damien Dawson and sophomore Zeke Jenkins. When Lions Are on Defense Southeastern is allowing 31.6 points and 440.4 yards per game this season. SLU senior defensive back Max Lyons is seventh in the Southland with a team-high 39 tackles. Senior linebacker Sione Teuhema is 10th in the Southland with 38 tackles and leads the league in both sacks (4.0) and tackles for loss (7.0). Lyons and Teuhema are joined among the Southland tackle leaders by fellow seniors Lee Spight (30, 21st), Jeff Williams II (29, 24th), Jake Jiannoni (25, 39th) and Ryan Sigers (23, 50th). Senior Mayori Ellison shares the league lead with seven passes defended and is second in the league with two interceptions. Williams II, Lyons and Sigers have also intercepted passes this season for the Lions.
When Lions Are on Offense Southeastern has put up 98 points and 1,135 yards in its two consecutive wins. The Lions have climbed to second in the Southland in scorSophomore Quarterback ing offense with Lorenzo Nunez 35.0 points per game and are third in the league with 443.8 yards per game. The SLU attack has been buoyed by the return to the starting lineup of sophomore quarterback Lorenzo Nunez. In the three games he has started, the Lions are averaging 549.7 yards and 48.7 points per outing. The Lions continue to feature the Southland’s most prolific rushing attack, as SLU ranks eighth in the nation with 279.2 yards per game on the ground behind a veteran offensive line. Three Southeastern running backs - senior Eugene Bethea (317 yards, 3 TD), junior Darren Johnson (251 yards, 3 TD) and freshman Marcus Cooper (188 yards, 1 TD) - have posted a 100-yard rushing game this season. Junior Julius Maracalin (244 yards, 5 TD) leads the Southland in rushing touchdowns. The Lions’ top receiver is senior Juwan Dickey, who leads the team with 22 catches and 301 yards, ranking sixth in the Southland in receptions and receiving yards per game. Dickey is one of seven players that have caught a touchdown this season, along
SR Defensive Back Ryan Sigers
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Petit-Frere Ends Lions’ Kickoff Return Drought In just his second game as a Lion, sophomore Juwan Petit-Frere gave Southeastern a fourth-quarter lead with a 92-yard kickoff return touchdown on Sept. 9 versus BethuneCookman. The Orlando, Florida native’s score was the first kickoff return touchdown was the first by a Lion since 2013. Multi-time All American Xavier Roberson brought back a kickoff return 90 yards for a touchdown in a 5831 victory at Central Arkansas on Nov. 9, 2013.
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Lions Put Together Historic Ground Performances
JR Running Back Julius Maracalin
In the season-opening 51-48 loss at UL Lafayette on Sept. 2, the Lions finished with 343 yards rushing, which was tied for the fifth-highest single-game rushing total since the program returned in 2003. In addition, senior Eugene Bethea racked up 187 yards on the ground - good for the ninth-highest single-season total in program history. The Lions’ showing on the ground at UL Lafayette was dropped out of the top five on Sept. 23. SLU rushed for 366 yards in a 49-21 victory over Lamar. Maracalin Moving Up SLU Career Ranks Now in his third season out of Plaquemine High School, junior running back Julius Maracalin is steadily moving up the program’s career rushing leaderboard in several categories. INDIVIDUAL CAREER RUSHING RECORDS Rushing Yards 1. 3,232 Jerry Butler 1981-84 2. 3,222 Horace Belton 1973-76 3. 2,776 Mack Boatner 1978-81 4. 2,710 Jay Lucas 2006-08 5. 1,857 Rogers Wilson 1973-76 6. 1,849 Ray Perkins 2003-04 7. 1,832 Tommy Bell 1953-57 8. 1,770 Rasheed Harrell 2012-16 9. 1,755 Robert Hicks 1977-80 10. 1,750 Ted Glaser 1967-70 1,630 Julius Maracalin 2015www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com
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By Kevin Empey Sports Writer for LGF
LGF, in its mission to provide its readers with news and information on ALL Louisiana’s teams is expanding to NFL coverage, primarily the New Orleans Saints. To that end I will do my best to provide our readers with the latest information and editorials. I am excited to be at LGF and hopefully will be expanding my articles and covering other NFL teams in the future. Well, finally it’s here. The 2017 NFL season. If you are like me, summer can often be a bit agonizing with the anticipation of the next season’s games, but still full of hope and excitement that your favorite team will this year make it all the way to the Super Bowl! To me part of the magic of the NFL is that somehow the fans genuinely feel they are a part of the team’s success or failures. Somehow all of our problems disappear when our favorite team makes a perfectly executed play resulting in a touchdown. I have to admit it really is a beautiful thing to witness a one handed catch at the very edge of the sideline with the players feet somehow both touching inbounds.
We all know what the Saints’ stats are at this point (2-2 in the regular season), but I have to wonder however where are those gutsy trick plays and the hurry-up offense that got them to the Super Bowl? Maybe it is just their level of confidence isn’t there this season. Let’s look with hope to the future. There have been some NFL teams that started the season with a bad record and have made epic come-backs. Let the new players settle in, tighten up the defense, and give Drew some protection so he can do what he does so well. I hope you will find these articles both enjoyable and informative. Until next month, “GEAUX SAINTS!”
Unfortunately, it does seem that the Saints are off to another not so great start. So far regrettably looking a lot like the same team we saw last season, but as I told my wife, who is also an avid Saints fan, it’s not time to panic yet. It’s early in the season and anything can happen. There has been a lot of anticipation with the acquisition of the great Adrian Peterson but everyone is now familiar with the side line “conversation” with (or at) Coach Payton. We don’t know all the details, and Peterson is certainly still a future Hall of Famer. All I know, is that my son (who is in the military) often complains about something he has to do for his job. I try to tell him that he is a part of at team, and he needs to trust those above him to see the big picture and make the right decisions. I also often ask him if the assignments he doesn’t enjoy pay any less. The answer is obviously no. It all pays the same right?
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