Louisiana Gridiron Football

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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– Writer

Richard Hebert– Dir. Of Ad Sales

Jada Davis-- Writer

and Business Development 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 9.1.17 6

From Player to Head Coach: Louisiana College

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GSU Tigers Ready to Claw their Way through the SWAC

10 Louisiana Tech Bulldogs 12 Cowboys Season Preview 14 Nicholls Hard At Work 17 Diamond in the Rough: Martin Lee III 18 Diamond in the Rough: Juwan Felix 20 DJ Chark: Is He LSU’s Next Big Time Receiver?

28 Northwestern State University Demons 30 Southeastern Louisiana Lions 32 Southern Jaguars Ready to Pounce into the 2017 Season 34 Catch the Wave for the 2017 Tulane Season

Upcoming Issues Sept

36 Ragin’ Cajuns Plan on Applying Pressure in this Year’s Conference

College Preseason

38 Claws out for the University Louisiana Warhawks

Oct-Dec Season Updates Jan

All-Louisiana Team

Feb

Louisiana Players Entering The Draft

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

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

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Dear Readers, I want to personally thank you for getting this magazine. Here at Louisiana Gridiron Football (LGF), our mission is to bring you the inside scoop from all 12 Louisiana College/University teams and 32 NFL teams as well as some high school football. This month’s magazine is a little appetizer of what this season will bring in the NFL. If you haven’t checked out our Facebook page you really need to. We recently went live with Marlon Favorite (former LSU National Champion and Super Bowl winning Saint) to talk about how we think the NFL and more specifically the Saints are going to do this season.

As we gear up for the 2017 football season here at LGF, we encourage you to keep a close eye on our social media and Facebook content which tends to change frequently. I myself eagerly anticipate all the football to come this year. Don’t forget we are more than just a magazine, so check out our Twitter, Facebook, and website below 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 www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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From Player to Head Coach: Louisiana College’s Coach Justin Charles Plans on Dominating the 2017 Season

By Jasmine Brown

When digging into a great organization such as Louisiana College, it is a must that you sit down and pick the brain of the head coach. I had the pleasure of interviewing Louisiana College’s own Coach Justin Charles. Coach Charles wrapped up his playing career for Louisiana College in 2004. He is ranked fourth on LC’s career tackles list and second for all-time sacks. With five kickoff returns for touchdowns, Coach Charles holds an LC, ASC and Louisiana collegiate record (all divisions). Charles was selected in 2004, as first team All-ASC, and in 2001 he was first team NCCAA All-American.

At the age of 10 years old, Coach Justin Charles interests and love for football was sparked. As a Texas native, football was always prominent but it wasn’t until he was sitting in his grandpa’s house watching a Texas versus Oklahoma game that he knew he had to get his hands on a football. Although young Charles was anxious to play ball, his mom did not allow him to play until junior high school. Coach Charles was often looked over because of his small frame but his speed was undeniable. “I stayed faithful to the Lord and dedicated as I awaited an opportunity to showcase what I could do,” said Charles. It was through this faith that he would eventually earn a position on a team. However, he would still have to be patient as a Freshman because he was a 3rd string safety through Senior year and received limited playing time. Senior year of high school, who would’ve known his blessing in disguise would be on the second and third day of practice when two players got injured granting him the starting position.

Coach Charles showed up and showed out which later led him to becoming a multiple All-American while playing for Louisiana College.

“I was just hungry for success,” said Coach Justin Charles. After putting his blood, sweat and tears into this game and what appeared to be menial tasks, his work finally paid off when his best friend Coach Dennis Dunn offered him the position in 2008.

“There were other colleges offering me positions but I thought of it as I had unfinished business with Louisiana College so I accepted the offer.”

Coach Justin Charles has always been deeply connected to the people at and around Louisiana College. He said, “it is not about wins and losses but more so about the people here,” and it is for this reason that Coach Charles returned to Louisiana College to coach after being a student athlete for four years. When Coach Charles arrived to Louisiana College, there wasn’t even a football or a football field in sight so he just stepped out on faith and at look at him now.

When asked what type of obstacles he has had to overcome, Coach Charles said simply being a young coach. When you transition over from player to coach, it is sometimes difficult for the guys and your former teammates to see and respect you as their coach rather than just their teammate. Coach Charles managed this tough period with grace and tact. These days, one of the biggest challenges Coach Charles deals with is balancing family time and his coaching work. He loves his family very much and if you As a 1st year student coach, Coach Charles was worked like a dog ever have a chance to meet with him in his office you’ll see that as many young coaches are. While trying to prove himself as an his office you will see well loved reminders of his family all over. unpaid intern, Coach had to start with the basics. His second and Coach Charles expressed that as a team, Louisiana College always third year interning, Charles would do things such as washing had the goal to win Conference. He described his coaching staff as jerseys, setting up the football field, painting the field lines, etc. young, trustworthy and full of energy. Though winning www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Conference is a team goal, his personal goal is to grow men off of the field. As an organization, they take on the responsibility of teaching their athletes to be good people not just great athletes.

“We teach our men discipline, values and how to present themselves in all areas of life” said Coach Charles. I had the opportunity to interview some players as well and I expressed to Coach Charles that these values were reflected in their interviews. They had a tremendous amount of pride in attending a Christian university.

While sitting in Coach Charles’ office, you’ll notice a big hammer laying on his desk. Which of course lead me to the question of what’s the symbolism behind the hammer. “Personality!” he said, “Anything that a hammer meets, it destroys. Sometimes in life you have to kill people with kindness but other times you have to take another route and go through them as you would with your opponent.” Coach Charles said it is important for Louisiana College to acknowledge how far they have come as an organization. “Everything we get, we have worked for” said As for this 2017 season, Coach Charles is very confident in what LouiCoach. siana College’s coaching staff and players have done. Aside from When looking for recruits, Coach seeks out individuals with putting in work on the field, the players have accomplished a lot in great character. It is important that the men have a desire to be the classrooms as well. After two back to back down seasons, Coach great because you have to be a special person to get a degree.

Charles confidently said “This year won’t be a bad one.” He plans on LC’s athletes must be willing to put in effort day in and day out filling trophy cases. On defense, LC has nine returning starters and on and off of the field. According to Coach Charles, character is they are all seniors; whereas on offense there are eight returning at the top of the priority list and goes a long way. Academics are starters and seven of which are seniors. Coach Charles believes that also a key factor too because without this you won’t have the having these good experienced players will make a difference on the opportunity to get into school. Coach Charles said “Being a colfield because they understand what needs to be done to win games. lege athlete isn’t easy; it’s a lifestyle. You must watch film, As I previously mentioned, Louisiana College puts in work and earns attend class, study and practice. It can be difficult to find baleverything they get and hopefully a Conference win is in their near ance.” future. “It’s going to be a good, clean season of football for Louisiana College.”

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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GSU Tigers Ready to Claw their Way through the SWAC

By Jasmine Brown

Grambling State University is the repeat Southwestern Athletic Conference Western Division champions. GSU won the 2016 SWAC championship game and defeated North Carolina Central University 10-9 in the Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl. The Grambling State University Tigers are without a doubt looking to remain one of the top teams in all of FCS football.

Leading into the 2017 football season, Coach Broderick Fobbs expressed that this year's team, on both defense and on offense, have collectively done better through camp in the preseason than what was displayed in the 2016 SWAC and HBCU National championship team.

Defensively, Coach Fobbs thinks they're as a team a little bit better in the secondary. "We had some players here or there who stood out in our secondary that were really exceptional players last year, but as a whole I think this unit is playing together a lot stronger than last year's unit. They seem to be on a string operating the right way in the secondary. Defensive line-wise, we still have to create some more experience there because we were very good last year. But I think we're good at the linebacker spot, and we have a lot of returners there.

Overall defensively, I think we're a little bit more solid as a team. This year seems to be a much tighter group," Coach Fobbs stated.

Offensively, GSU continues to work and they are looking better as a unit. With good depth at receiver last year, offensive coordinator Eric Dooley redshirted Raylon Richardson and Kobe Ross, both freshmen in the 2016 season. But, they will have to challenge one another for a spot. Richardson is one of Grambling’s biggest targets, while Ross is a crisp route-runner with good speed and hands.

Lyndemian Brooks spent time at running back last season catching two passes for 35 yards out of the backfield and had 44 carries for 285 yards and two scores. He is projected to start at the T position for the Tigers. Coach Dooley’s offense could utilize the tight end more this season. Redshirt sophomore Jordan Jones saw the most playing time of the squad last season. Where he started all 12 games in 2016 season earning him nine catches for 108 yards and two touchdowns. Senior Bryce Williams saw field time in eight games last year and was a great addition in the strong running attack of the Tigers as a blocker. He made only one reception for 14 yards last season, but his size and speed will allow him to be a threat as a receiving and blocking tight end for Grambling.

Coach Fobbs said, “this is a tight unit and I think we have a chance to be pretty successful."

In 2016, Devante Kincade provided instant leadership and athletic ability at the quarterback position after the departure of 2015 SWAC Offensive Player of the Year Johnathan Williams. The Ole Miss transfer ended first in the SWAC in plethora of offensive categories, such as total offense with 3,286 yards, passing www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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yards with 3,022, passer efficiency, passing touchdowns (31) and touchdown to interception ratio (31:4). Therefore, he was the 2016 SWAC Offensive Player of the Year and named to the All-SWAC First Team. Kincade added four touchdowns on the ground giving him a total of 35 touchdowns to his credit. Kincade will have to give advice to young quarterbacks Charles Wright and Kalen Whitlow. Although Wright saw limited playing time as the backup to Kincade in 2016, he does pose as a threat to opposing defenses with being able to run the football and pass it deep. Whitlow joins the Tigers as a transfer from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College where he completed 72 passes for 773 yards and six touchdowns last season. Therefore, the quarterback position is on lock and back up is in line.

After GSU’s final team scrimmage of preseason training camp, Coach said "We have some really good depth at running back, and on our defensive line, I thought they made some plays. As a whole unit, I think we're a lot deeper than we've been in past," added Fobbs. He was very pleased with the way they flew around and their energy level. During the scrimmage, he believed both sides of the ball made plays. Coach thought the defense did a very good job of creating turnovers and the offense did a good job of making plays. When they got inside the red zone. There were enough good plays to go around and there were also enough bad plays to go around, which is good. Coach Fobbs explained, “the only way I know to continue to work and get better is to go back and look at it on film and continue to grow." With this being said, GSU has what appears to be a promising season ahead of them.

As the Grambling State University Tigers approach their first home game of the season versus Northwestern State on September 9th, they are excited to face their opponent on their new artificial turf at the newly improved Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium. The new improvements allow the Tigers to get outside a lot more and to continue to do work and get better even on rainy days. Some of the recent improvements include turf, a new videoboard and brick walls. The GSU Tigers are extremely motivated by the new atmosphere these improvements have created and believe that it will push them to work that much harder. They plan on showing their appreciation by winning games this 2017 season.

Along with having a great staff and squad, the Black College Football Hall of Fame announced the 2017 Watch List for the Black College Football Player of the Year Award and the list included four members of the Grambling State University football team.

Senior running back Martez Carter, senior quarterback DeVante Kincade, senior offensive lineman Trenton Scott and junior defensive lineman Brandon Varner all made this year's watch list. With an improved stadium, a great coaching staff and stellar athletes, Grambling State University plans on remaining one of the top teams in all of FCS football as they enter the season. Go Tigers!

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

By Dorian McElwee

The Bulldogs are coming off three nine-win seasons and three straight bowl wins under head coach Skip Holtz and look to keep the momentum going.

"Two-thousand seventeen is finally here. We have been waiting for this for a long time, and as I have said a lot here over the last couple months, I love fall camp. It is the opportunity we get to bring our new additions that we talk a lot about on signing day in February, the guys we have been developing along through spring practice and bring it all together to start putting the faces and names together on the football team and the guys who are going to play a major role," said Coach Holtz recently stated.

Even though they have won two out of the last three C-USA West division titles, this year won’t be as easy with UTSA and Southern Miss looking like serious contenders for the division.

Losing your best offensive players is going to hurt any team but odds are, the Bulldogs will be on top of the Conference USA West division. Far from being complacent, Coach Holtz reports that he is always a little nervous when starting a new season.

"The thing that makes this 2017 nervous for me as a football coach are the unknowns. Those are the biggest things that make you nervous -- the things you really don't know about. We have six new starters on offense. We have six new starters on defense. Out of our six specialists, we have five of the six that are new. We will have a new holder, a new deep snapper, a new punt returner, a new punter and a new kick returner. The only guy returning from a specialists standpoint is Jonathan Barnes," said Holtz.

Coach Holtz is hopeful about this season however, saying, “we just have to keep pushing each other. We have a lot of talent and athleticism in the room, so it is just a matter of us continuing to get better. Going into next week, we will need to clean up some things so we can move forward. The biggest thing is focus everybody else is really concerning when you get ready to get into on playing mistake-free football.” game-like mode. How is a young man going to respond in game-like situations when the stadium is full, there is crown noise, when the With Carlos Henderson and Trent Taylor graduated to the NFL, Sophomore QB J’Mar Smith will look to lead the bulldogs offense circus is going on around the perimeter? Are we going to be able to this year. Both running backs, Jared Craft and Boston Scott, are remain focused and doing our job? That is the biggest thing we have back for the 2017 season, along with three starting offensive been working on as a football team…” lineman. The hope is that Henderson and Taylor were products of the offensive system and that the next man up will be able to Coach Holtz continued saying, "Now it is a pretty good place to start produce. One name to look for is Kam McKnight, Jr. Coaches when you talk about the guys we have returning. When you talk have high hopes for him this year, even though he only caught 18 passes for 281 yards and three TDs. Coach Holtz explained to about Jonathan Barnes, Jaylon Ferguson, Deldrick Canty, Russell Farris. Offensively, you've got O'Shea Dugas, Joshua Outlaw, Ethan the school’s website (LATechSports.com) how having returning players and having new players step up would be key for their Reed, Jarred Craft, Boston Scott.” season.

LA Tech is looking to win back-to-back division titles and win the conference out right, but Coach Holtz isn’t overlooking Northwestern “You’ve got a pretty good staple of guys that are returning. The guys returning are really solid players for us. The unknowns of State, LA Tech’s first opponent of the season. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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"I sit down and look at the unknowns with Northwestern State and I think Jay Thomas has done a great job there. He has done a great job of building that program. I know they had a down year last year, but he has two new coordinators. He's got eight returning starters on defense. On offense, I think he has six returning starters. They brought in seven junior college players or transfers on defense alone. I think there were three of them on the offensive side of the ball. They are going to have a completely new look. They were a football team that led their league in rushing last year. They are going to an up-tempo, and with two new coordinators, you have no idea what to expect or any film to watch to be able to say this is what we are going to get. I think for a lot of our new players, it is going to be a challenge with what we are walking into, but I think this is a very good football team that we are about to play. I know defensively, they return their top two leading tacklers, their leading sack guy and leader in interceptions. I know offensively, they are going to play a senior quarterback who has a lot of experience underneath his belt. He was able to start the last couple games of the year. They are playing 18 juniors and seniors out of their top 22. They only have four sophomores in their top 22. I know they are going to come out here and play hard," Holtz stated. It is just this kind of detailed and analytical thought that I believe makes Holtz an amazing coach. But that is just one man’s opinion.

There is a sense in In Ruston that LA Tech fans expect division titles now and want more. They want to see conference titles and even beating a SEC team in a season. Are the Bulldogs ready to take the next step? I for one believe that they are up to the challenge. With the talent in Ruston and the impressive coaching staff, the sky is the limit for the Tech Bulldogs.

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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by Jada Davis

Now, let’s take a look into the 2017 season for the Cowboys. 2017 will be the 20th anniversary of McNeese’s first FCS National Championship game appearance; the team lost 10-9 to Youngstown State in 1997. However, this Cowboy’s fans are hopeful that this season will be more successful.

McNeese returns 97 percent of its total offensive producers from the 2016 season, as junior quarterback James Tabary returns after an outstanding first season with the Cowboys where he threw for 3,036 yards and 23 touchdowns. He averaged 280 yards per game and had a completion percentage of 60%.

James looks to build on that impressive sophomore campaign by continuing to improve and help lead his team back to the playoffs. This could be the season that James helps turn back around the program to their winning ways like back in 2015 when the Cowboys went undefeated. Tabary is the 2017 SLC and Louisiana Newcomer of the Year, and rightfully so. We here at LGF recently interviewed this impressive player. What leaps off the page with this player is his character. He is just a truly stand up guy. We were very fortunate to get to know him.

On the offensive side, the team returns Ryan Ross (601 yards, 5 TDs), Justin Pratt (457 yards, 5 TDs), Lawayne Ross (218 yards, 2 TD), the top three rushers from 2016. David Hamm rejoins the backfield after missing the 2016 season; he ran for 251 yards and a TD in 2015. The team’s top five receivers from 2016 also return, Darious Crawley (41-701-7), Kent Shelby (40-509-5), Kylon Highshaw (31-421-3), Parker Orgeron (29- 373-1), and Tavarious Battiste (15-289-1). Crawley, in his first season with the Cowboys led the team with 7 touchdowns. In short, McNeese has all the components that they need to make a very strong offense this season. Only time will tell just how successful they are going to become.

I’m especially excited about #19 Parker Orgeron. He had a stellar true freshman season where he ranked fourth on the team with 29 receptions. The 6’0” sophomore has shown flashes of greatness and he has only been on the team for a year.

Former LSU offensive lineman Andy Dodd joined the McNeese squad during the summer; he’s expected to make an instantaneous impact. Dodd is the only senior in the starting five that averages 6-foot-3 and 306 pounds. He will certainly add some bulk to the line this season which is never a bad thing.

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McNeese’s defense goes by the label of “DWA” which stands for Defense With Attitude. The Cowboys return 2 defensive linemen, 2 linebackers and 4 defensive backs, a total of 8 starters from last season’s defense.

Returning defensive ends Chris Livings and Jammerio Gross-Whitaker combined to account for 15.5 of the team’s 24 total sacks on the season.

Jammerio Gross-Whitaker had the best season of his collegiate career last season leading the team in tackles. The top seven tacklers from last season return as well, led by Gross-Whitaker with 59 total stops and followed by safety Andre Fuller with 58. McNeese’s defense ranked No. 2 in the SLC in total defense, rushing defense and scoring defense. On the whole, the defensive line is pretty beastly at McNeese.

As far as special teams, both the starting punter and kicker return for the Cowboys, however, the long snapper will be new this season. Kicker Gunnar Raborn successfully hit 7 of 8 field goals on the season with his only miss being his first attempt in the opener against Tarleton State. Last season he led McNeese in scoring with 54 points and was ranked ninth in the SLC in points by kicking. His longest kick was against Abilene Christian with 47 yards. Sophomore punter Michael Mack will be challenged by incoming redshirt freshman and LSU transfer Bailey Raborn, who happens to be Gunnar’s younger brother. Mack was the primary punter for the Cowboys last season with 19 punts downed inside the 20-yard line and with four or more going over 50 yards. His career yard is 54 yards against Central Arkansas.

Obviously there’s no limit to where the McNeese State Cowboys can go.

This team has a rich tradition and a history of winning that is unmatched in their league. Go Pokes!

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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By Jada Davis The Nicholls State Colonel’s athletic department has announced several new developments to enhance the football gameday experience for their devoted fans. "Since the end of last season, we have received some great input and feedback from our campus community and alumni, as well as our Colonel Fan Focus Group. Each of these items are designed to provide our fans, some of the most loyal in the country, with the best gameday experience possible," Director of Athletics Matt Roan said. More ticket booths will be open to alleviate congestion on the west side of Guidry Stadium. Renovations have been made to restrooms, including fans to improve air flow, a substantial clean, a paint job, as well as brand new LED lighting. There have also been enhancements made to “Colonel Village”. Colonel Village, a fanfestival area that began several years ago, will continue in 2017 and remain in the same location directly north of Guidry Stadium. The festivities in Colonel Village will begin three hours prior to kick off, and will feature inflatables for kids and live music. The athletic department has added many more aspects to the Colonel’s gameday experience including game programs, postgame meet and greets, concerts, cooling stations, all-new video board and sound system, and Nicholls football team entrance; just to name a few. It seems like Colonel fans are in for a surprise this season!

The Nicholls State Colonels are entering their 3rd season under head coach Tim Rebowe. Rebowe, a 54-year old native of Norco, LA, earned the title of head football coach on Nov. 21, 2014, becoming the 10th in the program’s history. Rebowe has a history of coaching in Louisiana. In fact, his entire coaching career has taken place within the borders of this wonderful state.

Mr. Rebowe coached at Louisiana-Lafayette as an assistant for 11 seasons and was a former assistant coach at Nicholls for six years. Rebowe vowed to build the program by recruiting local talent; his first three recruiting classes consisted of 58 Louisiana natives out of a total of 64 signees. In his first signing class, Rebowe welcomed 26 student-athletes, all from the Pelican State and the majority coming from within a 100-mile radius of Thibodaux. The 2016 recruiting class was referred to, by some, as the best in the program’s history, and several true freshmen made an undeniable impact on the Colonel’s success last season. Coach Rebowe has remained persistent at building the program with local talent. Nine of his 12-member 2017 signing class came from Louisiana.

The Colonels envision this being a breakthrough season for them. Their 2017 roster has a nice structure as it returns 50 letter winners, and loses just four starters on offense and two on defense. Amongst the returnees are allleague honorees Chandler Arceneaux, Sully Laiche and Allen Pittman. For the first time since 1992, Nicholls will open up its season with a Southland game.

The Colonels host rival McNeese State for a Thursday night showdown at John L. Guidry Stadium on Aug. 31. They are looking to defeat the Cowboys for the first time since 2008. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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The Colonel’s offense features quarterback Chase Fourcade once again. Fourcade landed and has maintained his starting job after conducting an impressive fall camp as a true freshman. He has earned honorable mention AllSouthland after performing one of the best passing performances in the program’s history, racking up 2,482 yards for the third-best single season of any Colonel. Chase accounted for 27 touchdowns (18 passing and nine rushing) and finished fourth in the league in passing yards with 257.1 per game. The offensive line also welcomes back two of its anchors, right tackle Chandler Arceneaux and center Ryan Hanley. Arceneaux earned First-Team AllSouthland after starting all 11 games, and Hanley received honorable mention for the second time. Due to the graduation of C.J. Bates, quarterback Chase Fourcade has to find a new No. 1 target. Bates led the team with 798 yards and nine touchdowns on 53 receptions leading him to being named Second-Team All-Southland. The top candidate to replace him is Fourcade’s Rummel High teammate, junior Damion Jeanpiere. Damion’s strong freshman crusade was cut short with an injury, but he returned and racked up 505 yards receiving and six touchdowns last season.

The Colonel’s defense has made improvements under Coach Rebowe and defensive coordinator Tommy Rybacki, shaving numbers off its points allowed, total defense and rushing defense. The most substantial change from 2015 to last season was the rush defense, which went from 10th-best in the SLC at 244 yards allowed to fourth in 2016 at 141 yards. That’s pretty impressive. A key component in the Colonels’ improved defense was the play of the defensive line. A First-Team selection as a true freshman, Sully Laiche guided the charge with 9.5 sacks, which ranked third in the league, and finished second on the team with 60 tackles. Kenny Dotson pitched in with 4.5 sacks and joined Terrell Encalade with 30 or more tackles. Two main starters return for the linebackers along with redshirt sophomore Allen Pittman and junior Hezekiah White leading the group. Pittman had a breakout rookie season, leading Nicholls with 95 tackles and was named Second-Team All-Southland. White constructed another strong year with 58 stops, 9.0 tackles for loss, and two interceptions. The Colonel’s defense that led the Southland with 15 interceptions has the task of replacing two starters in the secondary. One being B.T. Sanders, who signed a free agent deal with the Buffalo Bills, and the other being Jeff Hall. Christian Boutte, who had three picks, is the team’s leader in pass breakups with nine. Boutte and Darryl Adams both return for the defensive backfield.

We can call it a comeback for the Colonels’ special teams. The team is fortunate to bring back all of their key members of the special teams. Senior punter Tyler St. Germain returns after starting the last two seasons. He is joined by his fellow classmate David McKey who was the team’s primary kicker in 2016, connecting on nine field goals. Junior long snapper Wesley Barnett is expected to start for the third straight season. Sophomore Stefano Guarisco was the team’s top kick returner last season, collecting 777 yards on 37 returns for a 21.0 average. Jarrell Rogers led the punt returners with five returns for 26 yards.

Coach Rebowe completely changed the culture of this team in his first year, ending a program-record losing streak and led Nicholls to a pair of road victories in Southland play. Last season, the Colonels recorded their first winning campaign in the SLC since 2005 and finished tied for fourth place. Before Rebowe’s arrival two seasons ago, Nicholls had finished last in the league for four consecutive seasons. It is absolutely amazing what Coach Rebowe is doing with the Colonels. Best wishes to Nicholls State as they begin their 2017 season! www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Diamond in the Rough: Martin Lee III

By Jada Davis

Martin Lee III is Lafayette Christian Academy’s rising star

and play football of course. He plans to study Sports Business. Lee does not have any specific goals for this season besides playing to on the football field. Martin, better known to his family and win a championship. He says he wants to make it one of his best friends as “Lil Man”, stands 5’11” and weighs 215 pounds. He seasons because he is not just playing for himself, but for his team benches 300 lbs, squats 350 lbs, and dead-lifts 255 lbs. Lee is curand family as well. As we wrapped up the interview Martin wanted rently a junior at LCA, a school that prides itself on teaching their me to know that he is dedicating this season to his grandfather student athletes how to have great integrity and Christian charac“Zeke”. ter. He holds the positions of running back/linebacker for the Knights.

I absolutely enjoyed this interview with Martin. He is modest and inspiring, and his story is one worth hearing. LCA’s football season I had the opportunity to speak with Lee about his passion for footis off to a good start with their recent win against Capitol. Good ball and plans for his future. When I asked Martin why does he luck to Lee and the Knights on the rest of their season. I’m looking play football his response was “I love the game. I’ve been playing forward to hearing about that championship! since I was 7 years old. I like to joke and say that I’m married to football because I’m so committed to playing and bettering myself. I also enjoy showcasing my strength when I come in contact with my opponent”. Lee comes from a very close-knit family and he says much of his success is a result of their support. I asked if he wanted to share any obstacles he had to overcome in life and he replied with the story of his birth. Martin revealed that he was 6 months premature and this caused many complications for himself and his mother. “Every time I talk about this I get a little choked up because of the reality that my mom almost lost her life while giving birth to me. I thank God every day for not only allowing me to survive but also allowing my mom to regain her health after that period of illness she went through. She is my motivation. She’s living proof that bad situations can turn good when there’s a purpose for it all”.

Despite his early entrance into the world, Martin grew up to be a powerhouse who loves participating in sports. To shift the mood, I asked Lee to tell me about any other sports he plays, his dreams for the future, and who he looks up to inside and outside the context of sports. Martin is also a part of LCA’s basketball team. He raved about how they won the championship last year stating that it was special to him because it showed him what can be accomplished when a team comes together and does whatever it takes to reach one specific goal. Lee’s favorite football player is Jamal Adams; he’s inspired by his athleticism and “swag”. Martin says he looks up to his grandfathers, Martin Lee and the late Ezekiel Anderson Jr. because whatever they do (or have done in the past) they put all their heart and faith in God. As far as future goals, Martin wants to attend LSU or Texas A&M

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Diamond in the Rough: Juwan Felix

By Jada Davis

Iota High School’s Juwan Felix is a 16 year old

Juwan’s goal for his senior year is to give his last high school season his football beast. Felix is currently a junior and holds a 3.7 grade all. When I asked Felix what are his plans for college he responded, “I point average with a score of 19 on the ACT. For many young would love to go to LSU or any other D1 school in the state. I don’t athletes, playing sports can be used as an “escape” from the want to go too far from home”. His dreams are to study mechanical engineering. pressures of the real-world. Some play sports just because they are good at it while others continue to play until they Subscribe to our monthly magazine. All Football, All Louisiana! become good. Both reasons take dedication. When asked why Just from our conversation I can assure that Juwan’s humble personalihe plays football, Juwan said he is very passionate about the ty along with his undeniable talent will take him very far in life. I’m sport. “I just love to play. I’ve been playing for about six or looking forward to hearing many more great things about Juwan Felix seven years”. and the Iota Bulldogs!

Juwan is 6’1” and weighs 295 pounds. He bench presses 300 lbs, squats 405 lbs, and deadlifts 500 lbs. He holds the position of offensive right tackle on the bulldog’s roster. Felix has been awarded 1st team All-District and All-Parish due to his outstanding athleticism. Along with football, he is a part of his school’s track team and he also powerlifts.

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DJ Chark: Is He LSU’s Next Big Time Receiver?

By: Coach Andy Bryson

I have had the pleasure of getting to know DJ Chark these past few seasons. To answer the question, Is DJ Chark LSU’s Next Big Time Receiver; the short answer is yes and the long answer is heck yes. LSU has been missing not only a talented signal caller but an offensive coordinator to teach and direct this team. DJ, in my opinion, could be the number one receiver on any college football team in the country.

At 6’4” and 200 LBS, he has the elite speed to match the impressive size of this talented young man.

Chark is an explosive receiver who has the ability to score each time he touches the football. DJ is a deep threat who can also be used in the running game and will be LSU's “go-to” receiver in 2017.

DJ Chark is the Tigers’ top returning wide receiver in 2017 after finishing last season with 26 receptions for 466 yards. Chark’s five touchdowns were third on the team and first amongst receivers in 2016.

With an offensive coordinator like Matt Canada, DJ Chark along with the rest of the offense will become better and be better used throughout the game.

Chark is a first round talent, if he comes out in 2017 and makes it known. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Achievements

Playing at LSU

DJ Chark is the only player in LSU history to score on a running play and passing play of 75 yards or more. He scored on a 79yard touchdown run in what was his first career touch in the 2015 Texas Bowl win over Texas Tech and caught an 80-yard TD pass against Southern Miss in 2016.

When questioned about what it is like at play at LSU, DJ said, "It's really exciting to wait your turn," Chark said. "Growing up, you see LSU football and you see the guys that are competing on the field. When I first got here, I knew I was going to have to wait my turn. Even being on the team with these guys, I see them play and I'm like, and I wasn't playing at the time, but I was like, 'Man, these guys are really playing LSU footFor his career, he has played in 23 games with six starts. He ball out there. When I finally got my shot to actually be out there and has 26 career receptions for 477 yards and three touchdowns compete, it was like, even now, I was watching one of our games the and another 201 rushing yards and three touchdowns. DJ Has other night on the SEC Network and I saw a catch I didn't even remema career average of 17.4 yards every time he touches the footber I caught and I was like, 'Man, that's really me out there.' It's still ball (39 total touches for 678 yards). Chark switched to jersey shocking sometimes."

No. 7 this year after wearing No. 82 for the past two seasons.

DJ was a four star recruit when he came out of high school where he was an All State Honorable mention. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Louisiana Gridiron Football is all about Louisiana football written by coaches and players. We strive to provide a positive media coverage for all 12 college teams in Louisiana. This year we have featured interviews with Ladarius Webb (All-Pro Corner with the Baltimore Ravens), Harry Coleman (LSU National Champion and Super Bowl Champ with the New Orleans Saints), Ryan Ross (current running back from McNeese State), Chase Fourcade (current Quarterback for Nicholls State), and many more. We also feature exclusive college game day photos from around the state. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind magazine. Order your subscription today!

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To Draft or not to Draft:

Last season DJ was asked about going to the draft and he said, "Towards the end of the season, people were like, 'So, you're getting your draft grade?' and I'm like, 'My draft grade?'" Chark said. "In my head, I feel like a freshman. This is my first year playing. I said I wasn't really looking into that right now and focusing on football. At first that was far-fetched and then at the end of the season came and it became more realistic. I had to start accepting the different changes I was going through."

Coach Orgeron brought Chark to media days this offseason after deciding to return to LSU for his senior season. "D.J. was really thinking about going to the NFL," Orgeron said. "I told him there were bigger and better things and if he comes back his senior year, that I'll make sure to put him in position to have the best success and this is one of those things."

Many players make the decision to leave lured by the fame and possible financial benefits that the Draft brings. However DJ made the right move by waiting to go into the Draft until later this year. One additional year of maturity will go a along way to making DJ more successful.

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On The Memory of the Auburn Game In 2016 in a game against Auburn, DJ caught the final pass in the game that had originally been rued a touchdown but later was reviewed and determined that the play did not get off before time ran out and the touchdown was overturned. With game 11 months in the books, that game still burns inside if DJ, "I said if they're reviewing the catch, then it's a touchdown, because I felt like I had the ball in my possession, feet inbound, but when we found out that's not what they were reviewing, it hurt," Chark said. "We celebrated and then we had to walk into the locker room after being so happy to being so down, but I really think it was a lesson, something that I'll never forget."

Needless to say, things could be quite different for both teams had Chark's touchdown counted that late-September night on the Plains. "There's no telling," Chark said. "I think everything happens for a reason.

After the loss, Les Miles was fired and Ed Orgeron was hired to become the interim coach for the Tigers. "When I realized he became our interim head coach and saw the way he treated me personally and treated the team, how I saw it really meant a lot to him, I was like there's no way you could bring someone else in and give it to them," Chark said.

In Closing This offseason, the Tigers hired coach Orgeron as the newest head coach.

He immediately set out to hire an offensive coordinator and he brought in Matt Canada. Matt is one of the top offensive minds in football, Canada was the only offensive finalist for the 2016 Broyles Award as the nation's top assistant coach. Matching coach Canada with senior Danny Etling, who returns as the Tigers’ starting quarterback, could be a dangerous combination for the Tiger offense. Last season, Etling threw for 2,123 yards and 11 touchdowns in 11 games with limited opportunity. What makes this an exciting match, Canada and Etling, is that Canada knows how to create space in and around a defense. By spreading out the field, the linebackers will have to come out of the box to the edge to cover the slot receivers. By doing this, they create holes for Guice to run trough. When teams bring linebackers back into the box, they will leave man coverage on the edges and give Charck the advantage against any defensive back in the league.

To be able to stop Chark this season, teams will need to dedicate at least one safety to him. The problem with that is one man, Darius Guice. This offense is staged to great things this season. This offense is loaded with talent one every level. This is not even mentioning the freshmen on the team that will push the veterans for playing time.

The Tigers are poised to make a serious run for the playoffs in 2017. When you compare the combination of size, speed, and strength of every roster in college football, on paper, LSU is head and shoulders above them all. I still stand firm in the belief that LSU will have at least one Heisman finalist if not two at the end of the season. I expect Danny Etling to pass for 3000+ yards and Darius Guice to run for 1800+ yards. Go Tigers!

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By Dorian McElwee

The Demons are coming off a tough season in which they were 110 and finished last in the Southland Conference. Coach Thomas understands that last year was not good enough but told ArkLaTex that he hopes that they can learn from last year’s struggles.

“We learned a lot (last season), had a lot of guys who got game experience who we weren’t expecting to play,” said Thomas. “You can see the difference since Christmas break.

We had one of the better springs I’ve ever been around, and we’ve had a fantastic summer with a lot of energy, passion and purpose. Last year’s experience can be a cornerstone for success this season.”

The Demons do have 26 players returning from last year’s team, that started at least one game in a season full of injuries. Senior receiver Bobby Chan-Chan returns after leading the team in receiving last year. Redshirt Junior J.D. Almond, who started the last three games of last season, won a QB battle this year to lead the Demons. The Demons coaching staff went through an overhaul this offseason, getting new offensive and defensive coordinators. QB coach, Kyle Manley, was elevated to Offensive Coordinator and Brad Laird, who coached and played for the Demons, will be the new Defensive Coordinator.

The Demons had a record-setting defense in 2003-05 when Laird was the DC and look to get back to that level. Coach Thomas also believes that having a new voice on offense will make a difference.

“It’s easier for us quarterbacks to have a quarterback coach calling the game. We’re sitting with him watching film all week, and we get a very good understanding of how he thinks, which is good for us because we’re the ones out there managing the game on the field. I think having Coach Manley in the coordinator’s role will help out quite a bit,” Taylor told ArkLaTex. Coach Thomas realizes that it will not all come together right away for the Demons, especially when you have a new voice teaching the system.

“We’re still working out of the spread concept. There’s so many different variations of that offense, and moving Coach Manley to run it was a big positive in the spring. You’ve got to try and score as much as you can. You’ve got to put a 3 with another number behind it on the board, some kind of way.” Coach Thomas knows they need more from the offense, “We’re trying to create more explosive plays and be highly multiple. We’ll have more of the motions, formations, the shifts, to create mismatches. We just scratched the surface in the spring.”

Coach Thomas is hoping that the experience that the team has coming back this year will help them take the next step in competing in the conference.

“We’re a lot better up front than we were last year at this time. We have lots of experience, and we have two positions, center and left tackle, that we’re looking for replacements and we’re heading in very good directions. Coach Bowen (O-line coach) worked with us for a couple of years, left for a couple of years, and is back. The players have bought into him and it’s been really fun.”

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While the offense has 6 starters returning, the defense has 7 starters returning to the 2017 team. The defense last year was one of the worst units in all of college football and was due for a change. The addition of new, and former, defensive coordinator Brad Laird should help the Demon’s defense right the ship.

“The main addition is Coach Laird as the coordinator,” Coach Thomas said. “The philosophy has changed because of the game in the last two years. It’s a multiple defense, with different looks. It’s a Chicken McNugget defense, with pieces and parts, a little bit of everything. He brings a tough mindset, discipline, a detail-oriented approach. You have to be super sharp in those respects because of the RPO (Run-Pass Option) game that everybody’s using now, and the game’s going to stay there for a while.” He continued, “The staff did a great job installing our defense, and there’s a long way to go, but I’m excited about what’s happening.”

With a new scheme and play-caller for the defense, the veteran ball players for the Demon defense is even more important than ever.

“At linebacker we have all seniors, and seniors backing up seniors. Adding Jake Olsen as linebacker coach has been beneficial. He’s an impressive young coach, and arising star.” Coach Thomas feels strongly about his secondary also. “We feel a lot better at the corner position. We got decimated there by injuries almost weekly, even before we got to camp, and it was a revolving door. A lot of guys who were on the field probably before they should have been now have game experience, which helps. We have Ike Warren back after he showed the last two weeks, coming off an injury, that he’s a dynamic player in our league. D’Ronne Littleton never played a down last year due to injury, but he’s back and he’s a big-time talent. We have new faces who can be really good players. We want to be six deep there.”

Special teams has always has been a big part of what Southeastern does and Coach Thomas wants that to continue this year.

“We lost a returner who is now in the NFL, Shakeir Ryan, for the second straight year. Ed Eagan left a void a year earlier when he went to the league. We believe we have some options that can be explosive.

Redshirt freshman Hayden Bourgeois could be the punt returner and might be the punt returner and might be there for kickoffs.

We have a few guys in the mix.”

The Demons know they have the talent and experience to possibly do some damage in this upcoming season. Demons open their season September 2, against LA Tech and the following week against FCS #21 Grambling State. www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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By Dorian McElwee

Southeastern is coming off a 7-4 (7-2 in Southland Conference play) season and look to build off a strong finish that saw them winning their last three games and six out of the last seven. Coach Ron Roberts enters his sixth season with the Lions losing both senior quarterbacks Justin Alo and D’Shais Landor to graduation. Junior Donovon Isom and South Carolina transfer, Lorenzo Nunez, will both play QB for the lions this year. Its not all newcomers, as the Lions will return three All-Southland Conference players back to the offensive side of the ball and six All-Southland players in all. Junior RB Julius Maracalin, Senior OL Travis Romero, and Senior WR Juwan Dickey will look to lead the Lions offense this year. Coach Roberts told the school’s website that he thinks his team has a lot of potential after seeing them this spring.

“We displayed tremendous work ethic and chemistry as a team throughout the spring.

This group proved to be coachable and we had a tremendous amount of leadership.

We’ve had a bunch of different guys step in as leaders for our team, which is what you want to see. We can’t just have two or three guys be our leaders. When we have won conference championships in the past, we’ve had 12-15 guys step into leadership roles.

We believe we have that this season, which is why we’re confident heading into 2017.”

The offensive line also got a boost when Maea Teuhema transferred from LSU. Teuhema joins his brother, Sione, who transferred from LSU last year and plays linebacker for the Lions. Both brothers wanted to transfer to near by Hammond so they did not have to sit out a year and help the Lions compete for a Conference Title. Caoch Roberts says that Maea addition to the O-line makes the team better overall. He thinks that not only his talent, but also his experience and leadership will all benefit the team this season.

He says that Maea will start at left tackle, arguably the most important position on the O-line, to start the season. He thinks this may be the best O-line they have had at Southeastern since he’s been there. He talked to his brother, Sione before anything became official and felt comfortable brining Maea to camp. Coach Roberts also seemed comfortable with where the rest of his team was at prior to the season.

"We've been able to give all of our players up and down the depth chart plenty of reps, so we feel pretty good where we are as far as evaluating our talent. Now that everyone is pretty settled on where they are in the rotation, we're starting to see better timing and continuity, which is something we have to continue to improve,” Roberts told the team website.

Coach Roberts was excited for the opportunity to start the season against FBS and instate opponent University of Louisiana-Lafayette when talking during his press conference foe the first week of the season.

“Game week one, lots of excitement in the air. It’s been a long camp and the guys are ready to go against someone else. It also allows us to evaluate our guys against different competition and different scenarios, so we’re ready,” Roberts said. “Huge Matchup against UL, I said when we signed up what a huge matchup for our fan base. In the state of Louisiana, its an FBS opponent that yes we get to go it’s a huge game for us. Right out of the gate it’s a huge test and probably the best and most talented team we will face this year, so definitely a great test for us.”

Coach Roberts also did mention that he would play both his quarterbacks in the first game, as the competition is still to close to call. He says both players do some things exceptionally well and some things they still need to work on. He believes that having www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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both quarterbacks play against FBS competition will give a better idea where each player is. He said ideally that either Isom or Nunez would take charge and win the job. If one gets hot and plays well he will continue to play. On the other side of the ball, the defense is set in the secondary and linebacker positions.

“Our linebacker corps is our most experienced and deepest position. We have three seniors as our starters in Sione, Jake Jiannoni and Lee Spight and we’re going to have some newcomers that can come in and compete for playing time,” Roberts said. “We have a lot of experience returning in the secondary and we expect to continue to be solid in that area.”

Coach Roberts knows that his Defensive line is in for a big test against ULL. He believes that the offensive line of ULL is one of the best units on their team.

“Defensive line is probably where we are the most inexperienced, you know I think we got two guys with game experience. So we’ll have a redshirt freshman start one of the ends. Junior college transfer, John Miller will start inside and on the other side Vaughn, who is a redshirt sophomore had a little experience last year as a redshirt freshman but didn’t play a lot,” he said. “So, we have a lot of inexperience up front and we will play six guys, maybe nine with a couple freshman getting some experience. UL’s offensive line is probably their best unit up front so this will be a big test for our guys.”

Southeastern has a lot of talent returning this year and look to put it all together to win a conference title this year. But Coach Roberts knows that talent is not the only thing needed to win a championship.

“The talent is in place for us to compete for another Southland Conference championship.” Roberts continued, “Winning a championship doesn’t come because one or two guys make all the big plays. Our players have to have a ‘we’ attitude, not a ‘me’ attitude.”

The Lions are set to open the 2017 season at FBS UL-Lafayette on Sept. 2 with a 6 p.m. kickoff.

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-by Jada Davis

Southern football will open the 2017 season by making its third appearance in the SWAC-MEAC Challenge. The Jaguars are the only SWAC school to win in the 10-year history of the SWAC-MEAC Challenge, having beaten Florida A&M in 2007 in Birmingham, Alabama, and Delaware State in 2010 in Orlando, Florida. Fans are pumped to hear the Human Jukebox blow as they’ll lead the Jaguars into Ace W. Mumford Stadium for the season opener on September 3 against the South Carolina Bulldogs. But before the season even kicks off, four of Southern’s Jaguars have made the Black College Football Player of the Year award watch list. These players include seniors Austin Howard, Dillion Beard, Danny Johnson and Aaron Tiller. Quarterback Austin Howard passed for a career best with 29 touchdowns as a junior last season. He is entering his senior year with 62 career passing touchdowns and 7,286 passing yards. Tight end Dillion Beard has been one of Howard’s top returning targets having caught 38 passes with six touchdowns a season ago. Beard is expected to take on a larger role this season. Cornerback Danny Johnson is Southern University’s only preseason FCS All-American; he picked off a Southwestern Athletic Conference best seven passes a season ago. Johnson already has 13 career interceptions as he is entering his final season. Aaron Tiller, defensive end, ranked among the SWAC leaders in tackles for loss in the past two seasons and in sacks. Last season, he recorded nine sacks.

positions. Coach Berry said, “That kid is so, so talented. He’s a big bodied kid, 330 pounds. He’s athletic. He can bend. He’s got excellent feet. He’s got a nastiness to him. The sky is the limit.”

Andrea Augustine is a clear cut starter and is expected to play a key role in coordinator Trei Oliver’s defense. Coach Oliver has been very demanding because he sees something special in Augustine. Danny Johnson described Augustine as having a real long body and being able to cover some ground. While head coach Dawson Odums added, “He’s what they’re supposed to look like. Now he has to play like that. I think he will. He’s ready.” Since Andrea Augustine has arrived, he’s played in every game making 60 tackles and breaking up five passes. With repetition, Augustine has become more confident as a player and a person.

On a typical morning on the Bluff, you can find the Southern Jaguars practicing and maybe even doing celebratory dances. Southern University’s coaches have come up with a celebration circle, which is a circular orange piece of tubing. It’s the brainchild of coach Dawson Odums: a designated area for his team to get together and celebrate a job well done. The In addition to these standouts, Jeremiah Abby is not to be idea behind it was team underestimated. Since he walked onto Southern’s practice unity and to avoid playfield he has always taken on the biggest, most dominant deers feeling discouraged from showing excitement. “We don’t want to fender he could find. Abby squared off against Aaron Tiller, one take the fun out of the game,” Oliver said. “I think, if you make the of the SWAC’s top defensive ends, in a one one-on-one board big play, they’ve earned the right to celebrate. We don’t want to take drill which allows players to showcase their prowess in a head to any of that from the guys; we want to have fun. After you have a big head matchup. Tiller rarely loses so Jeremiah Abby called him play, hand the ball to the official. And when we get over to the celeout and said it was a chance to prove himself. He knew it would- bration circle, we’re going to pump it up.” This encourages the playn’t be easy. Abby told himself, there was no way he could lose ers to make plays when they can. “As much time and hours as the because the offensive linemen would look at him as the crazy guys put into it, you have to have fun when you play the game. And freshman who called out the defense’s stud. Then, the unexwhen you make a big play, you deserve the right to celebrate with pected happened when Jeremiah Abby won! Everyone was your teammates. Some of the guys have to work on their dance shocked even Abby. If he could block Tiller, then he could possi- moves a little bit before Sept. 3, but we’re going to get that ironed bly block any lineman in the country. Jeremiah Abby is athletic out” said Coach Oliver. with great mechanics and has good instincts because he does The Southern Jaguars have a talented squad both on offense and destuff that you can’t coach. Never in coach Chennis Berry’s career fense. With great coaches and a group of men looking to capitalize has he played a true freshman but he plans on making an excepand make the necessary plays, the Jaguars just might be the ones to tion. Abby will be Southern’s starting left tackle, replacing Mabeat. GO JAGS! son Sims and Christian Rodriguez, who rotated at the spot last year. Sims and Rodriguez have been pushed to the guard www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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by Jada Davis Coach Willie Fritz will undertake his second season at the helm of Tulane football in 2017. Fritz brings a refreshing, enthusiastic, and winning culture composed to redefine the Green Wave as one of the top programs in the American Athletic Conference and NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision. Fritz is just three wins away from reaching 200 for his coaching career as he enters the 2017 season. Of his 197 wins, 61 are on the NCAA Division I level (Football Bowl Subdivision and Football Championship Subdivision).

The Green Wave opens the 2017 season against a first-time opponent, Grambling State. Tulane currently holds a 4-0 record against teams that are members of the Southwest Athletic Conference (1-0 vs. Jackson State and 3-0 vs. Southern). Will the wave maintain this record? This matchup will not only be the first time these teams meet on the gridiron, but there is also a familial connection between the teams. Tulane running backs coach Jamal Fobbs’ brother, Broderick Fobbs, is the head coach at Grambling State. The connection runs even deeper as their father, Lee Fobbs, serves as running backs coach at Grambling. The result of this game will make for an interesting topic of discussion at the dinner table. Tulane will eagerly contend for a win in its season opener for the first time since a 34-7 victory over Jackson State in the 2013 season opener. A victory over Grambling State would give Tulane wins in home openers in back-to-back seasons for the first time since defeating Southeastern Louisiana in the home openers to begin the 2010 and 2011 seasons. The Green Wave posted 30 or more points in five games last season, four of which resulted in wins. The one loss was a 35-31 defeat against SMU. The Green Wave enters this season having rushed for a 100 or more yards in 15 straight games, dating back to the last three games of the 2015 season.

Several Tulane players are on the watch-list for or have been nominated for prestigious awards this season. These players include Parry Nickerson (Allstate American Football Coaches Association Good Works Team, Paycom Jim Thorpe Award and Wuerffel Trophy), Charles Jones II (John Mackey Award), John Leglue (National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Award & Campbell Trophy) and Luke Jackson (Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award).

The 2017 Green Wave roster features eight returning starters on offense, seven returning starters on defense and three returners on the special teams. The 2017 edition of the Green Wave includes 36 players from the state of Louisiana, 24 of them being from the Greater New Orleans area. If we look at the offense, www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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last year Tulane had a triple-option ground attach and finished the 2016 regular season ranked 27th in the nation at 228.1 yards per game. The loss of several members of the running back “fab four” (Josh Rounds, Lazedrick Thompson and Sherman Badie) it will be interesting if the young talent under the mentorship of senior Dontrell Hilliard will step up this season. Looking across to defense the Green Wave is looking to continue their history of aggression.

Green Wave defense seized an interception in seven of its last nine games and in eight of its 12 games in 2016. Defensive back Parry Nickerson sustained his outstanding play in the defensive backfield, joining the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision leaders in total passes defended and interception return yardage for most of the 2016 season. Nickerson concluded the regular season tied for 26th in the nation and second in The American in passes defended with 13 (nine passes defended and four interceptions).

For the Green Wave special teams, two-year punter Zachary Block returns, along with Geron Eatherly at long snapper. A new face at placekicker, Coby Neenan, will debut this season. Block has played in 20 games, and managed the punts in all 12 contests last year.

Eatherly was Tulane’s long snapper in all 12 games last year. Neenan, a redshirt freshman, will handle the field goal and extra point duties. These guys are well equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful. Seniors Sherman Badie and Dontrell Hilliard along with junior Devin Glenn lead the return game after handling most of the kickoff and punt return duties last season. Senior Donnie Lewis Jr., redshirt freshman Jacob Robertson Jr., and freshman Stephon Huderson may also see action returning kicks for the Green Wave.

Coach Willie Fritz has an impressive history of second-year turnarounds. College football programs have made remarkable improvements in his second season at the helm. Tulane is the fifth school for which Fritz has been head coach. In his first three stops, Blinn College, Central Missouri and Sam Houston State, the teams earned at least three more wins in Fritz’s second season. At Georgia Southern, the program earned its first Division I FBS bowl bid. I am looking forward to what Fritz’ second season as head coach has in store for the Green Wave. Well wishes to the Tulane Green Wave as they begin the 2017 season!

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by Jasmine Brown

Mark Hudspeth is heading into his seventh year as the head coach over at the University of Louisiana. The Ragin’ Cajuns finished third last year in the group of five conferences with their work on the field as a collaborative conference. The Ragin’ Cajun’s goal as a program for their university and community is to compete for championships every year. This year the Cajuns have a tough schedule. Coach Hudspeth told his players, “the greatest views come from the hardest climbs” so they plan on attacking the season one game at a time. Southeastern Louisiana is a very good team and will face the Ragin’ Cajuns at Cajun field for their season opener. Following this game, the Cajuns will get into very tough nine games of their Conference schedule. Then, this year is a little different because the Cajuns will open up with the University Louisiana Monroe at home for the first Conference game which is a big change from what it has been in the past, where the Cajuns would normally play ULM as the last game of the season. The Cajuns will also play both co-champions, Arkansas State and Appalachian State, on the road this season. The Ragin’ Cajuns will be aired on ESPN for two Thursday night games, as they have demanded national media attention. Many are going to learn, what is going on in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Offensively, when looking into the strengths of the Ragin’ Cajuns, the strengths would be their front on both sides of the football.

The offensive line returns four starters including Grant Horst, D’Aquin Withrow, Robert Hunt and Kevin Dotson. These guys have 13 games under their belt. On the defensive line, just about every starter is returning including freshmen All-American Joe Dillon and he will be a game changer as the Cajuns move forward throughout the season. The Cajuns have a lot of depth at the defensive line and are stacked with men who received a lot of field time. The depth of the offensive line has been increased too so these two units will be called upon as the season goes along.

Another big question the Cajuns have received is who will be filling the quarterback position. After the spring game, Jordan Davis was given the starting quarterback position. Jordan is a guy who has been in UL’s program and he is currently going into his fourth season. Therefore, he knows what is expected from his coaches and he understands what they are about as an organization. Plus, Jordan has had a great relationship with the new offensive coordinator, Will Hall, as he’s been preparing to attack the upcoming season. Coach Hudspeth said, “Jordan Davis has some big days ahead of him and I think having four starters in front of him back on the offensive line has got to give him a feel of security as he is back there spinning the ball around. To me, one of the best wide receivi www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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ng cores in the conference so that’s another exciting part.”

At the running back position, the Ragin’ Cajuns have to fill the big shoes of Elijah McGuire. Coach Hudspeth is not sure that they will replace him right away. Elijah McGuire was the second lead rusher in the Cajuns’ history and he was drafted this past season by the New York Jets. Following him, the Ragin’ Cajuns appear to have a lot of good candidates for the running back position. Senior Darius Hoggins was expected to start but he suffered an injury so sophomore Jordan Wright and redshirt freshman, Trey Ragas may have to fill the void. In addition to them, sophomore Raymond Calais of Breaux Bridge and true freshman Elijah Mitchell are working with the second unit. Hudspeth expects all four to play in the season opener and believes they have nothing to worry about.

On the defensive line not only do the Cajuns have Joe Dillion but defensive tackle Taboris Lee is also a returning player. According to Coach Hudspeth, “Taboris Lee has been one of the main steadies on this team and in this Conference for the last three seasons.”

Jarvis Jeffries is back along with Trev Miller so Coach Hudspeth believes the Cajuns have a good group of guys with experience that played at a high level last year and should be able to play big this season. In the Cajuns’ secondary, they are also packed with experienced players especially with Tracy Walker and Travis Crawford.

Walker and Crawford are both at the safety position and in

addition to this they have .lot of corners that are experienced and ready to play. The defense’s biggest question is the linebacker position after losing Otha Peters and Tre’maine Lightfoot who had 200 tackles combined. Therefore, veteran T.J. Posey has stepped up as the starting linebacker.

The Ragin’ Cajuns look forward to the 2017 season opener against Southeastern Louisiana as they will be on playing on their new turf in the Cajun field. The 39 game series with Southeastern Louisiana in football is the sixth longest for the Ragin' Cajuns in school history with Louisiana holding a 19-17-3 lead. University Louisiana holds an 11-9-2 lead over the Lions at Cajun Field with the series tied at 8-8-1 in Hammond. The schools, who are approximately 90 miles apart and were members of the Gulf States Conference from 1948-70, are meeting on the gridiron for the first time since 1981 when the Lions (now a member of the Southland Conference) claimed a 7-0 victory over then SLC-member Southwestern Louisiana. Although the Cajuns have a tough season ahead of them, they also have a talented group of men lined up to take on whoever steps in their path.

Coach Hudspeth said, “if you want to be the best, you have to beat the best” and that’s exactly what the Cajuns plan on doing in the 2017 season

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By Dorian McElwee Considering the circumstances, it was a pretty successful first year for coach Matt Viator. The Warhawks were able to beat Georgia Southern and South Alabama in which they were double-digit underdogs in both games. The Warhawks were able to double their win total from two to four in Coach Viator’s first season. Last season was a heart breakers for Warhawk fans, but that is to be expected with a rebuilding year.

“We are really excited about getting going. We have had the entire team here during the summer taking classes and training with our strength and conditioning staff.” stated second year head coach Matt Viator. “We are excited to see the newcomers on the field competing with the returning players.”

Caleb Evans and Garrett Smith both played QB last year and appears it will be more of the same this year. Coach Viator feels confident that this will not be an issue this season. “We haven't even talked about it (starting quarterback) to be honest with you,” Viator said. “It's something that we'll sit down and obviously get Coach (Matt) Kubik's opinion about it. He's the one who sees them every day, but they've both been doing good.”

“Caleb Evans will start the game at quarterback Thursday at Memphis. Garrett Smith will come in quick in the game as well.

The reason being we want to play both of them. The reason that Caleb will start ahead of Garrett is because Caleb graded out better throughout the course of camp. I think both kids did good as did Will Collins, who is much improved. It's always a difficult decision. I really liked the way Coach (Matt) Kubik did it this year. One day, Caleb took all the reps with the ones, and the next day, Garrett took all the reps with the ones. So they both took equal reps, and Caleb was graded better. I mean Garrett's going to play quick in the game, but we tell the players this is equal competition. Last year can't matter; every year is a new year.”

Coach Viator knows that the Warhawks are a rebuilding program, even after doubling their win total from the year before.

They hope to keep the program building and it is not the first time Coach Viator has had to build a program from scratch.

"I don't think it's any different. It's about relationships and getting the right players in your system and coaches and making all that mesh," Viator said. “If you look at what we're trying to do, we're trying to build the program back, get the numbers (of experienced starters) back," Viator explained. "It just takes a little time to get that going." www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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"I'm really having a lot of fun with it," Viator said. "I've done it several times on the high school level. I've always enjoyed building a program back. It gets frustrating because you want to win maybe quicker than you can, but it's fun because we have some good kids here."

The running back position should be a strength with returning players Duke Carter, Ben Luckett, Thomas Koulfe and Alabama transfer, Derrick Gore, joining them.

“We'll play four guys at running back. Derrick Gore will start the game, Austin Vaughn will sit the game. We're hoping within the next couple weeks Austin Vaughn will be back,” said Coach Viator.

Offensive Line will also be a strength and the team hopes the defense can take the next step.

“Offensive line wise, we're possibly playing 10-11 guys. The other guy too that's a question mark is Keaton Baggs. He's coming back from ACL; I'm not sure, but he's close. Extremely excited about it (the depth at the position). We have a starting five, but I had to look and see who it was to be honest because we keep rotating guys in there.”

The ULM Warhawks fell short in their comeback attempt against Memphis, losing 37-29 in the season opener for both teams. It was a wet and muddy game, with both teams combining for six turnovers, in rainy weather conditions created by Hurricane Harvey from the past week. ULM was trailing 30-7 in the third quarter before scoring on three of its last four possessions to make for an interesting ending.

Garrett Smith finished 10/17 for 171 yards and 1 TD and 1 INT. Caleb Evans finished 11/20 for 108 yards and 1 TD as the two quarterbacks split time. ULM will have another tough test next Saturday as they visit Tallahassee and the #3 Florida State Seminoles, who are coming off a tough loss to #1 Alabama. Best of luck this season Warhawks!

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