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Transcript of Preseason magazine 2015
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A Prideful Nation
By: Aniyah T. Foley
They’ve already scoped out the landscape and identified their target; now they’re
ready to attack. The Southern University Jaguars have begun their hunt to crush the dreams
of their rivals in an effort to bring home the SWAC Western Division Championship once
again. Southern University has been a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference
for 81 years, has claimed 18 conference titles during their membership, and are preparing
to be the sole SWAC victor of this 2015 season to add to the Jaguar pride. This year the
Jags will be in Ruston, Louisiana to kick off their season against the LA Tech Bulldogs on
Saturday, September 5, and they’ve already begun their preparation to avoid the possibility
of being mauled. As a supporter of all things Louisiana, all things football, and an advocate
for fair fights, I hope the Bulldogs have been deeply investing their attention to the weight
room, because the Jaguars will be coming at them heavy and they have no intention to ease
up. The Jaguars reported to fall camp this past Sunday to pick up their equipment for their
first fall practice of the season which is scheduled for August 3. As the season opener ap-
proaches, head coach Dawson Odums will be preparing to enter his third full year at
Southern University and it’s certain that he’s ready to accomplish a lot more than he’s
ever done before. In his short history with SU, Coach Dawson has already been
acknowledged as a SWAC coach of the year. This title was given to him in 2013 after
his first complete season with the Jags. It’s a safe bet to say that this accomplishment
was only the “field goal after the touchdown” knowing that he managed to close out
that same season with two major victories: a SWAC West Title Championship and an
overall SWAC Championship.
With success in their past, the Jaguars have been yearning to bring triumph
to their school. Technically Baton Rouge, Louisiana is known as the stomping ground
of the Jaguars, but Ace W. Mumford Stadium is specifically where the Jags get things
done. Seven players from the Jaguar Nation were selected to be a part of the 51 mem-
ber 2015 Preseason All- SWAC team. These nominations are product of last season’s
sensational grind and determination which resulted in a number of Jaguars receiving
2014 All SWAC Honors. This year, players such as DL Gabe Echols, RB Lenard
Tillery ,and WR Willie Quinn were honored by the entire Southwestern Athletic Con-
ference for their astounding athletic capabilities, perfected tenacity, and tremendous
presence on the field. With such recognition, the anticipation for this season is bor-
derline unshakeable. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to capture the entire South-
ern University Football experience. You’ll be able to watch the Jaguar’s first three
games on broadcast networks such as ESPNU, ESPN3, and ASN (American Sports
Network), but merely watching the Jags from a screen this season simply won’t cut it.
Come be a part of the Jag Nation Saturday, September 19! Living your fan
life as a virtual supporter of the Southern University Jaguars will never measure up to
actually being present for SU’s first home game of the season. Southern University will be taking on Jackson State University in their own hunting ground,
and it’s in your best interest to be there to witness the Jaguars in their prime for yourself. As a trophy for being such a devoted fan, you will be able to take
home your own first-hand memory of the SU Jags demanding respect from the Jackson State Tigers while also being serenaded by SU’s own highly ac-
claimed Human Jukebox. The combination of Southern University’s remarkably talented marching band and the athletic precision of the Jaguars will make
you proud. However, if you aren’t able to catch the Jaguars take on the Jackson State Tigers or any other of Southern’s home games during the season, it
would be a sad day in SU fandom if you miss the 42nd annual Bayou Classic. Grambling State University and the Southern Jags will be continuing tradition
as they both journey towards the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. They will once again challenge each other to a match that showcases the epit-
ome of college football rivalry. The Bayou Classic has always been known for being held on the last Saturday in November, so guess where I think you
should be this year? Become a member of the Jaguar Nation today!
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 14
Cajuns Look to Keep Streak Alive in 2015 Dave Parks, Louisiana Gridiron Football Intern
The Ragin’ Cajuns are coming off an incredible four straight bowl wins, each coming in
the New Orleans Bowl. This is a feat only four other teams in the nation can claim. Last year the
Cajuns started slow with one win in their first four games, but finished strong by winning eight of
their last nine games. Head Coach Mark Hudspeth returns for his fifth year after four-straight nine
-win seasons. He knows that expectations are high and recently told NOLA.com that, “Four years
ago we picked this challenge of turning this program around. After four straight bowl wins, we're
fixing to have another big challenge. It's another big opportunity.''
On offense, the Ragin’ Cajuns lost two important playmakers, quarterback Terrance
Broadway and running back Alonzo Harris, to graduation, but reigning Sun Belt Player of the
Year Elijah McGuire is back and ready to carry the load. McGuire also won the Sun Belt’s Offensive Player of the Year. He had 1,848 all-purpose yards last
season and could have his sights for over 2,000 this season. Senior running back Effrem Reed will help take some of the load off McGuire in the backfield.
The Cajuns will have a nice combination of size and speed this year at the receiver position with Jamal Robinson standing over 6’4” as a nice end zone target
and speedy Al Riles making plays in the open field.
At quarterback, Brooks Haack looks to be the starter after backing up Broadway the previous two years. The quarterback position also includes dual
-threat Dion Ray, who headlined the Sun Belt’s top-ranked recruiting class for the Cajuns. The offensive line will return three starters and looks to continue
its solid play from previous years.
On the defensive side, there will be many changes and plenty of new faces. The Cajuns will be playing under their third defensive coordinator in
five years. This year’s Co-Coordinators, Melvin Smith and Charlie Harbison, will be sharing play calling duties. Both bring impressive resumes with experi-
ence from coaching at top SEC schools.
The linebacker core will be strong with Dominique Tovell, nine tackles for loss last year, leading the way. Tre’maine Lightfoot and Otha Peters are
also there adding support. The defensive line may not have much playing time under their belts, as of yet, but they have great size and will be hard to push
back. The secondary will rely on strong safety T.J. Worthy for big plays. This defense looks ready for the challenge after showing signs of improvement dur-
ing spring practice. There will also be new faces at kicker and punter this year with two strong footed freshman taking over each spot.
The season opens up with a big game in Lexington versus the Kentucky Wildcats. The Cajuns will have in-state showdowns with Louisiana Tech,
Northwestern State, and UL Monroe. Sun Belt Conference games include match-ups with Appalachian State, Arkansas State, and the season finale against
Troy at Cajun Field could determine if UL can claim the top spot in the Sun Belt this year.
Ragin’ In “The Swamp”
By: Aniyah T. Foley
Move-- get out the way! The Ragin’ Cajuns will be on the road to Kentucky this
September and they’re ready to play. I’m aware that my sense of humor may seem a bit
ludicrous, but UL’s 7-1 2014 Sunbelt Conference record will never be mistaken as a joke.
Saturday, September 5, 2015 will mark the day that the University of Kentucky Wildcats
will have an opportunity to taste what the University of Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns have been
cooking up all summer long, and it’s neither crawfish nor gumbo. This matchup between
the Wildcats and UL will mark the first time that both schools will have ever had an oppor-
tunity to challenge each other’s skills. It’s more that understandable why the anticipation
for this match-up has been building. Luckily, it’s thrilling to know that ESPNU will be
broadcasting the season opener for Ragin Cajun enthusiasts all across the country, and
taking away any reason we’d have to miss this historic kick off. Leading UL’s football
program UL’s head coach, Mark Hudspeth, has officially been with The Ragin’ Cajuns
since 2011. This year, UL will be entering the season as the current 2014 New Orleans
Bowl Champions! The University of Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns have fearlessly remained the
sole New Orleans Bowl Title Holders for all four years of their consecutive appearances. In fact, this remarkable accomplishment by UL has rewarded the
Ragin’ Cajuns with the accreditation of being the only school within the NCAA to hold this title for all four years in a row!
With success on the radar, Coach Hudspeth has transformed Cajun Field Stadium into a land marker for where things get hectic. Notably known as
“The Swamp”, Cajun Field has become the visible definition of what a home field advantage looks like because of UL’s 18-4 home game record that reflects
all four of Coach Hudspeth’s previous seasons. Knowing this, it’d be in your favor to be in the presence of the Ragin’ Cajuns on September 12. It will mark
the 15th Annual Herbert Heymann Classic and it’ll also be the Cajuns first home game of the season against the Northwestern State Demons. Considering that
this game will be airing on ESPN3, you’d shouldn’t miss it. After tuning in, be sure to catch a good look at the Cajun’s running back, Elijah McGuire. His
outstanding offensive performance during his sophomore year deemed him as the 2014 Sun Belt
Conference Player of the Year and also the title as the Offensive Player of the Year. Most recently,
he has been acknowledged for being placed on the watch lists of both The Paul Hornung and The
Maxwell Awards. If selected, these awards will showcase his rapid and continuously evolving
versatility as a proficient player. Alongside him are his fellow teammates who have also been
exerting phenomenal effort both on and off of the gridiron. As a result, senior tight end, Evan Tat-
ford has been selected amongst 11 other well-rounded student athletes within the Sun Belt Confer-
ence as members of its Leadership Team. As the Ragin’ Cajuns take on another thrilling season,
I’m sure that they are more than ready to claim another winning record.
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 3
Contents
Nicholls State 4 McNeese State 5 Northwestern State 6 Tulane 8 LSU 9 Grambling State 9 La Tech 10 Louisiana College 11 Southeastern 12 ULM 13 University of Louisiana 14
Southern 15
Louisiana Gridiron Football (LGF) By Andy Bryson
This was an unique year for us here at LGF. We saw an increase in our viewership unlike anything we had ever witnessed. In the spring of 2015
we wanted to bring our fans something they had never seen before, an around the state tour of every college football team. We got dozens upon dozens of
interviews from College Coaches, Players, and former Players. We posted those interviews to our website, YouTube channel, Twitter, and Facebook page
and received a large positive response from everyone. That is when we realized that 325,000 people were watching these videos everyday on our Facebook
page alone!
One thing that jumped out at me during the spring tour was that every team in the state has a ton of playmakers and can compete for their respective
conference championships. Our pre-season prediction is that LSU, UL, ULM, Tulane, and La Tech will all be playing in December/January Bowl games.
Meanwhile we predict that LSU, La Tech, Tulane, and UL can all win their respective conferences. In the FCS, Southeastern, McNeese, and Northwestern
can all be in the hunt for the Southland Title while Nicholls is still building. Then we have Louisiana College, this state’s only DIII program. They are return-
ing most of their team from last year, so they are in a good spot to not only win their conference but a DIII National Title.
It is simply amazing how much talent is in this state. Did you know that every program in the state has at least one player in the NFL? To our
knowledge, no other state can say that. Or did you also know that Louisiana has more players in the NFL than any other state, per capita? LSU leads the
nation with the most players in the NFL from any university. So why would anyone want to go to an out of state school when there is a better chance you
could go pro by staying home?
As the 2015 season approaches, you will see many new and exciting ways we at LGF intend to promote the 12 football schools. Starting with the
weekly newsletter or our monthly magazine, our fans can read stories about their local teams, and interviews from current and former players. If your are
interested in getting involved in what we do, call (985) 789-9351or email us [email protected]. We have several ways you can get involved as
an advertiser.
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 4
A Colonel Reborn
By: Aniyah T. Foley
It’s always been fascinating to realize the similari-
ties between two things that aren’t exactly alike. For instance,
even though we’ve all been raised differently, it’s highly
likely that we’ve all been told an old legend or two while
growing up. Actually, some legends and characters were so
epic to us that we can still recall them till’ this day. Coinci-
dentally, Manning Field in Thibodaux, Louisiana, may soon
be thought of as a setting in which legends and reality collide.
This season, Coach Tim Rebowe will be entering John L.
Guidry Stadium as the Nicholls State Colonels head football
coach, after a stunning season with the University of Louisi-
ana,. Coach Rebowe has been cleared to enter Nicholls State
Colonel territory as a high-ranking New Orleans Bowl coach-
ing veteran. After this past 2014 season, Coach Rebowe re-
spectfully closed out his 11 years of experience as the assis-
tant coach of the UL Ragin’ Cajuns by finishing the season
with an incredible 7-1 Sunbelt Conference record. Even with-
out taking his most recent achievements into consideration,
Coach Rebowe might already be considered as a coaching legend amongst the
Nicholls State fans that are caught up on their Colonel football history. Before his
successful career with the Cajuns, Coach Rebowe kicked off his college-coaching
career by dedicating five seasons of hard work and extensive effort to his beloved
Nicholls State Colonels and it definitely paid off.
Excelling as a defensive back coach from 1995-99 and later as a wide
receiver coach in 2000, Coach Rebowe’s role on the NSU coaching staff lead the
Colonels to one of the biggest one-year turnarounds in NCAA Division I football
history. Ending the Colonels devastating 0-11 season in 1995, Coach Rebowe and
his fellow staff answered the Colonels call to destiny by taking NSU to the post
season that following year. After claiming an 8-4 season record, the ’96 Colonels
earned their first play-off appearance following a decade of tough luck. With that
history, it’s safe to say, “Once a Colonel, always a Colonel.” Revisiting my previ-
ous thoughts about similarities and legends, Coach Rebowe’s newest journey as
NSU’s head coach seems to definitely parallel the journey of the legendary phoe-
nix. The phoenix originated from an old Greek legend and is described as a myth-
ological bird-like creature that burns up once its old life journey is complete, and
is then reborn from the ashes of it past-life to begin anew. Taking with him the
knowledge from his past coaching experience, Coach Rebowe is ready to burn up
the stigma from last season’s tough year and soar into his new journey with this
season’s Colonels. Nicholls State will shake things up as they bring in their new
season on September 12, 2015 in Malone Stadium as they take on the University
of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM). Combined with the exhilarating preparation
they’ve undergone with Coach Rebowe for the upcoming season, and their own
fiery determination to surpass last season’s record, the 2015 Nicholls State Uni-
versity Colonels are completely ready to sound off!
SR #5 Tobias Lofton , RB and SO #14 Christian Boutte, DB; Spring Game 2015
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 13
Soaring into History
By: Aniyah T. Foley
If it’s always been your dark and slightly twisted fantasy to witness a duel between a Warhawk and a Bulldog, I have beautiful news for you. The
ULM Warhawks will glide into their 2015 season Saturday, September 5, and land at Stanford Stadium in Athens, GA to match up with the University of
Georgia Bulldogs. The scenario I described to you earlier sounds like something you would only be able to catch on National Geographic or Animal Planet,
but don’t set your DVR to Animal Planet just yet. ULM’s season opener will be available to
spectators everywhere if they tune in to the SEC Network that Saturday. The University of
Louisiana at Monroe Warhawks’ second game will be against Nicholls State Universi-
ty ,and is accessible on TV too. If you decide to tune in to ESPN3 that following Saturday,
September 12, be sure to cheer for the Warhawks and their Head Coach, Todd Berry, as he
celebrates his sixth year of coaching ULM with his first home game of the season. If a tele-
vised sporting event doesn’t quite appease your needs as a determined ULM fan, go be
apart of the entire football experience in JPS Field at Malone Stadium. For those of you
who aren’t familiar with the Warhawks in Monroe, former ULM receiver and Hall of
Famer, Al Miller, has now earned a NFL Lifetime Achievement Award as a successful
strength and conditioning coach.
Warhawks have always been equipped to soar, especially if they’ve gained flight
school experience from Coach Berry. Just recently, another former student from the Uni-
versity of Louisiana at Monroe has graduated and began his career with the NFL. Justin
Manton has finished his four year career as a student-athlete at ULM, and has transformed
from a Warhawk to a Raven. During his senior 2014 ULM career, Manton was a specialist
for Coach Berry who earned the title as a First Team All-Sun Belt Kicker. Now, Justin
Manton will begin his football career as a free agent with the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens
while his former fellow teammates cheer him on and continue to put in work towards that
same goal. Current wide receiver, Rashon Ceaser, is making a name for himself for the
second year in a row during the preseason as he reclaims his slot on the watch list for the
Paul Hornung Award. As Coach Todd Berry continues to utilize his 32 years of coaching
experience to pierce through the profound relentlessness of college football, his wisdom
and skill will continue to effectively navigate his Warhawks towards success as they pre-
pare to graduate from flight school. Talons Out!!
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 12
Who’s On the Menu?
By: Aniyah T. Foley
Lions have to eat, but will it be your team for dinner? Opposing fans will be asking themselves this question all season long when they visit the
Southeastern Louisiana University Lions in their own den. Last season it became evident that there’s nothing sweet about what goes on in Strawberry Stadi-
um. Blessed with a flawless home game record, SELU fans all across the board were able to boast about their team’s 9-4 overall 2014-season record, and
also commend head coach, Ron Roberts, for training their Lions to devour their Southland Conference competitors. After posting up a 7-1-conference record
during the regular season, SELU was able to claim their title as Southland Conference 2014 Co-Champions. After taking home the Southland Conference
Championship for a second year in a row, the Lions returned
to Hammond, Louisiana to both prepare for the 2015, and to
welcome new members to the pride. SELU has welcomed
transfer student-athlete, Justin Alo, an aspiring starting quar-
ter back for the Lions into the family. Alo has showcased his
ability to be called “Lion-worthy” by claiming the All-City
and Marine League Player of the Year Titles during his high
school career. Relocating from his former community college
in California to continue his college career under the skilled
guidance of Louisiana Coach of the Year, Ron Roberts, Alo’s
challenging made promising stride toward his future.
Alongside Coach Roberts this season will be his
new offensive line coach, Matt Applebaum, a former NFL
Jacksonville Jaguars offensive assistant. Matt has the elite
skills to develop college level players into powerful pre-
professional athletes. With the preseason at hand, the Lions
have been making major moves for the upcoming 2015 sea-
son both on and off of the field. Southeastern Louisiana Uni-
versity has managed to have four of their Southland Confer-
ence football games to be broadcasted on either ESPN3 or
American Sports Network (ASN). With the acquisition of this extended full coverage, fans will be able to enjoy watching the talents of their favorite players
for themselves. Considering that Lions have sixteen of their players on the 2014 All- Southland Conference team, merely telling you about the excitement for
this upcoming season would be underselling the accomplishments that have been achieved by the SELU football program. Players such as Harlan Miller,
whose name was placed on STATS FCS Defensive Player of the Year watch list, because of his 66 tackles and seven interceptions, are craving the fast ap-
proach of fall practice. August 3 marked the beginning of a new practice season for the SELU as they prepared to conquer even more territory during the
2015 season. Catch the live hunt for the Lions’ new title this season as they close in on the Northwestern State Demons in Natchitoches, Louisiana, Thursday,
September 3, 2015.
SR #5 Kody Sutton , RB; 2015 Spring Game
Southeastern Fall Practice
By: Andy Bryson
Intensity, brotherhood, passion are three things that come to mind when I left practice
this preseason. Coach Roberts and staff look to three-peat as Southland Conference Champions
this season as they begin the season with in state rival Northwestern. Southeastern starts the sea-
son ranked 19 in the FCS rankings. Now before you start making jokes about the FCS, note that
the Southland Conference is the SEC of Division I AA. The only difference between I A and I AA
is the number of scholarship players. Division IAA has some really great talent. Players such as
Jahri Evans, Marcus Colston, and even Hall of Famer Jerry Rice all came from Division I AA
schools.
Southeastern continues to produce NFL talent every season under Coach Roberts. In
Coach Roberts’s second year as Head Coach of the Lions, he coached up second round pick, Rob-
ert Alford, cornerback for the Atlanta Falcons. Since being drafted, Robert has become a premier
shutdown corner and has intercepted Drew Brees in every game they have played in together.
This season looks to be no different. The Lions are going to field the best secondary in
all of the FCS and will have a top 10 defense this season. Many teams are going to underestimate
the Lions this season due to the loss of quarterback Brayan Bennett to the NFL. But that will be a
huge mistake, because their competition at Quarterback looks really good.
In conclusion, the Lions are going to continue their winning ways this season. As long
as they keep Coach Roberts as their head ball coach, they will continue to dominate the FCS. The
new coaching additions made in the off-season, makes Southeastern a powerhouse. Bringing in a
new defensive coordinator like Blake Williams, former Super Bowl winning coach from the
Saints, is going to bring NFL attention to Hammond this year. See you at the game. Lion Up!!
Southeastern Lions
2015 Schedule
Day Date Oppo-
nent
Thur. 9/3 at NSU
Sat. 9/12 vs Florida Tech
Sat. 9/19 at Ohio
Thur. 10/1 vs Lamar
Sat. 10/10 at McNeese St
Sat. 10/17 vs Stephen F. Austin
Sat. 10/24 at Houston Baptist
Sat. 10/31 at Central Arkansas
Sat. 11/7 vs Incarnate Word
Sat. 11/14 at Abilene Christian
Thur. 11/19 vs Nicholls
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 5
Saddle Up
By: Aniyah T. Foley
Will it take a Cowboy to tame the Bengal from
the bayou? Saturday, September 5, 2015 will round up the off-
season’s hard work, and release it’s rigorous momentum into Tiger
Stadium. McNeese State University and the Louisiana State Univer-
sity Tigers will be in Baton Rouge, Louisiana schools battling one
another, as they simultaneously break open their 2015 season. If
you’re a fan of either school then you should know that things are
bound to get “rowdy”. McNeese’s mascot definitely hasn’t been the
only one developing some new skills over the summer. Extreme
strength and conditioning has been at the top of McNeese Football’s
list in order to demonstrate to fans how real Cowboys exhibit
“Excellence With A Personal Touch,” as the school’s motto would
say. Head Coach Matt Viator and the blue and gold Cowboys will be
representing the Southland Conference of the NCAA and their cher-
ished city, Lake Charles, LA. As a Division I school, McNeese
State University has developed a 68-32 record while under the ten-
ure of Coach Viator. He has transformed from a McNeese alumni
into a revered coach. He has surpassed the expectations that were pre-set by many of
his honorable predecessors. His esteemed accomplishments have earned Coach Viator
the title of the third winningest coach in McNeese University history and also the dis-
tinction of being a multi-year finalist for the Eddie Robinson National Coach of the
Year. The standard his players must acheive to are unbelievable, but with the hard-
working principles instilled in them by Coach Viator, the Cowboys are destined to
become victors in life.
Seeking, building, and uniting a strong league of Cowboys has required
flexibility, effort and commitment from Coach Viator’s proficient coaching staff. The
product of this devotion can be witnessed in the willingness and determination shown
by his players. Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator, Lance Guidry, was
able to mold last season’s McNeese State Cowboys into the Southland Conference’s
second ranked school for total defensive coverage. As a result of Guidry’s effective
defensive strategies, two-thirds of the twelve McNeese football players who were
selected to be on the 2014 All-Conference team were from Coach Lance’s defensive
squad. While under the fine direction of McNeese’s coaching staff, the Cowboys have
been able to lasso-in preseason All-American recognition that is sure to bring attention
to Cowboy Stadium this upcoming season. Brent Spikes, a senior defensive back,
finished his HS career with 352 tackles and has continued to prosper in his college
career by being selected for the STATS FCS Preseason All-American Team. The
McNeese State University Cowboys have only been warming up for the blazing future
seasons that are ahead of them. Saturday, September 12, distant fans across the coun-
try will be able to pier into Cowboy Stadium for McNeese’s first Southland Confer-
ence matchup of the 2015 season. Make sure you catch McNeese State University on
American Sports Network as they take on the UIW Cardinals from San Antonio, Tex-
as and show them the true definition of a Cowboy.
Date Time Opponent Location
9/5/2015 6:30 p.m. Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, LA
9/12/2015 6 p.m. Incarnate Word Home
9/19/2015 6 p.m. Stephen F. Austin Nacogdoches, TX
9/26/2015 6 p.m. Mississippi College Home
10/3/2015 3 p.m. Nicholls Thibodaux, LA
10/10/2015 6 p.m. Southeastern Louisiana Home
10/17/2015 6 p.m. Central Arkansas Conway, AR
10/24/2015 6 p.m. Northwestern State Home
10/31/2015 2 p.m. Abilene Christian Abilene, TX
11/7/2015 6 p.m. Sam Houston State Home
11/21/2015 6 p.m. Lamar Beaumont, TX
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 6
Link It Up
By Dustin Nothnagel
In 1998, the Northwestern State football team brought together a community unlike any other team in school history. The success of the NSU did
not hinge on any particular quality, rather, success was found because of a multitude of factors. Tragedy and heart-break united a program of talented play-
ers, gifted coaches, and a resilient community.
According to head coach Sam Goodwin, the success of the ’98 team began the season before. Coach Goodwin recalls that a baby of a player had
passed away that really took its toll on the team. Along with the passing of an infant son, dehydration became an issue during the beginning of camp with 6
lineman going down. The setbacks of ’97 greatly affected the comradery of the team. Coach Goodwin noted that the team didn’t “gel” until after the ’97
McNeese State game in which the Demons were blown out by almost 50 points. The beat-down seem to light a spark within the core of the team; Coach
Goodwin noting that “the players and coaches committed themselves to one another.” After the McNeese game, the Demons won their last 6 games which
got them a playoff spot and share of the Southland Conference title. The key to the ’98 success would be to keep the commitment and momentum rolling
from the 1997 team, and a return of leadership would make that possible.
The 1998 team was one of the most talented teams in NSU history. Four NFL draft picks including Jermaine Jones, Kenny Wright, Mike Green,
and Robert Daniel, the return of All-American center William Broussard, and more professional players than any other team in school history made the ’98
team primed for success. The coaching staff at NSU was led by head coach Sam Goodwin. According to NSU play-by-play announcer, Mr. Lynn Rollins,
Coach Goodwin began his football career as a success. Mr. Rollins recalls that Coach Goodwin “played on the only state championship football team from
Rapids Parish, at Pineville High School, in 1960.” That level of success was always an expectation for Coach Goodwin. Mr. Rollins could not have spoken
more highly of Coach Goodwin referring to him as “first class,” and “one of the classiest coaches on any level of the sport.” Rollins is convinced that “every
aspiring, young coach should be required to spend time with Coach Goodwin.” But, Coach Goodwin’s offense would not have been as successful as it was
without the help of an aggressive and clutch defense led by Bradley Dale Peveto. Coach Peveto, who is now an assistant with LSU and former NSU head
coach, was the defensive coordinator for Coach Goodwin’s 1998 team. According to Mr. Rollins, Coach Peveto was “young, full of vinegar, and very ag-
gressive; he seemed to be a volcano of enthusiasm. The two coaches mixed together in a profound and extraordinary manner.” Coach Peveto’s defensive
was a very opportunistic squad that won many games on late defensive stands in the ’98 season. Along with Goodwin and Peveto, the coaching staff includ-
ed other great leaders like Doug Ruse and Jack Curtis. Many times, great teams are built around a central, encompassing theme. According to Dr. William
Broussard and Coach Goodwin, the theme for the ’98 season was “link it up.”
The “link it up” theme meant that each member of the team was a link in a chain, and no one person wanted to be the weak link that caused the
chain to break. For many years after, Coach Peveto had an actual chain link installed in the football facilities that each player would rub on their way out
onto the playing field. For Dr. Broussard, the team realized many things through the adversity that occurred before the ’98 season began; he believes the
team learned that “friendships and lives were so much more meaningful than a game, and that playing that game was a privilege and an honor, but ultimate-
ly, only one aspect of their lives.” That sort of bond does not occur on every football team, but it is the type of connection that will remain in those players’
and coaches’ memories forever. A bond like the one the 1998 NSU football team had is what took that team from being a playoff contender in 1997 to ex-
pected champion in 1998. But, championships are not won because teams have the desire to win them; the NSU team had to drudge through a tough, unfor-
giving season.
The season began with the “Clash of Champions” game against the defending SWAC champion Southern Jaguars. Coach Peveto’s de-
fense was known as the “Purple Swarm,” and that name lived up to the pre-season hype against Southern. The Purple Swarm set the tone early with a pick-
six by future NFL draftee Jermaine Jones. Along with plays on the back-end, the Swarm went on to set a school record for rushing yards allowed holding
Southern to minus thirty-one yards. With a win on opening day, the Demons had momentum going into their next game against USL (now known as ULL)
in Lafayette. In a tough, hard-fought game, the Demons were able to pull out a 2 point victory against USL. In the third game of the season, Henderson State
travelled to Turpin Stadium resulting in a 53-7 rout of the Reddies. Quarterback Warren Patterson tied a school record with 4 touchdowns passes in a game,
all of which came in the first half. After Henderson State, the Demons travelled to San Marcos, Texas, to take on the Southwest Texas Bobcats. The Purple
Swarm led the Demons to victory by tallying 10 sacks against the Bobcats. In the 5th game of the season, NSU had to travel to Columbia, Missouri, to take
on the nationally-ranked Missouri Tigers. Missouri proved to be too much for the Demons handing NSU their first loss of the season. The next week would
pose a match-up between the two co-champions of the Southland Conference between NSU and McNeese State at Turpin Stadium.
McNeese state was ranked No. 1 in the country and had only one loss on the season. McNeese State had an incredibly efficient team,
especially on offense, but they had not faced the ’98 Purple Swarm. The Swarm forced 4 interceptions in the game; McNeese had not thrown an interception
the entire season. In a dead-lock, Warren Patterson was able to scramble for a touchdown to give NSU the securing touchdown with 9:51 left to play in the
game. Running back Ronnie Powell carried the NSU offense with 141 yards on the ground and one score. 14 points were enough to defeat the top-ranked
Cowboys who were held to only 10 points. The victory was not only exciting for NSU, but put a target on their back as one of the top-ranked teams in the
country. For their 7th game of the season, the Demons had to travel to Thibadeaux, Louisiana, to take on an upset-minded Nicholls State team. Nicholls was
able to score late in the 4th quarter bringing their deficit to only 2. A failed onside-kick attempt with only 1:38 left to play in the game would seal the game
for the Demons, 26-28. Homecoming for NSU the next week presented a challenge for the Demons as Troy State travelled to Turpin Stadium. Inefficiency
in the red-zone proved disastrous for the Demons as they fell on their home-field 14-13. In an attempt to redeem themselves, NSU travelled to Jacksonville,
Alabama, to take on Jacksonville State. After started the game 3-5 for 95 yards and a touchdown, quarterback Warren Patterson with an injury leading to the
insertion of Brad Spangler. Coach Goodwin noted that “the team seemed to rally around his underdog mystic.” The Jacksonville State game was also the
break-out performance for redshirt-freshman running back Tony Taylor. Taylor, who would end his career as NSU’s all-time leading rusher, had 230 yards
on the ground and 3 touchdowns. The Demons were able to finish off Jacksonville State and carry that momentum into another blow-out victory against Sam
Houston State. Brad Spangler had a big performance, 326 yards and 3 touchdowns, giving the Demon team confidence in his abilities. Knowing that they
had a great team, the NSU coaching staff reminded their team to only take the season “one game at a time;” that mantra would certainly be a necessity going
into the latter part of the season.
The last regular season game of the season, against Stephen F. Austin, proves to be one of the fondest memories in the mind of Coach Goodwin.
Coach remembered being up 28-0 at the end of the half, but then SFA was able to grasp momentum before half-time with a last second hail mary. The Lum-
berjacks were able to hold onto that momentum closing the gap to only 7 points in the 4 th quarter. With a chance to tie the game at 28, the NSU defense held
SFA out of the end-zone on 4 plays inside of their own 10 yard-line. Coach Goodwin recalls that moment as “one of the greatest defensive holds he had ever
seen.” The victory against SFA secured the Southland conference title and a top-ranking going into the playoffs.
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 11
Welcome To the Wild
By: Aniyah T. Foley
The Louisiana College Wildcats will be exploring the promising possibilities of this year’s season utilizing the continuous guidance of Head Coach
Dennis Dunn and the fresh outlook from new Special Teams Coach Chris Boniol. Coach Dunn has been a great force for Louisiana College’s football pro-
gram since 2006 progress has been “wild”. Coach Dunn was originally chosen by the LC athletic program because of his success at Evangel High School.
Seeing as though he claimed 14 District Championships during his 14 year stay with Evangel HS, I can see why the Wildcats wanted Coach Dunn .
“Amazing” doesn’t fully cover Coach Dunn’s 200-39 overall record which provided nine state championships. After dedicating himself to reworking Evan-
gel’s football program, Coach Dunn made the decision to begin his college football career. Today, the Wildcats currently have a 52-28 overall record under
Coach Dunn, and are now ready to welcome previous Dallas Cowboy, Coach Boniol, to their well-rounded coaching roster. Originating from the state of
Louisiana, Chris Boniol played as a place kicker for Alexandria High School and completed his college student athlete career at Louisiana Tech University
where he was named as Louisiana Freshman of The Year in 1990. His professional career began as a free agent for the Dallas Cowboys where he assisted his
team in winning Super Bowl XXX in his rookie season. While playing for the Cowboys, Coach Boniol also was accredited for becoming their first player to
achieve three consecutive 100 point seasons. In 2010, as a result of Coach Boniol’s prior success with his beloved Cowboys, he earned a special teams coach-
ing position. After spending three seasons in Dallas and a
year with the Oakland Raiders, Coach Boniol has returned to
Louisiana with more than enough experience to raise the
Wildcats to a new level.
Considering his extensive history with football as
both a player and coach, Coach Boniol will be able to easily
relate to his players and help them understand what he ex-
pects from them in order to succeed. With Coach Dunn’s and
Coach Boniol’s combined professional experience the Wild-
cats are bound to claw away the competition. In preparation
for the season, Coach Dunn has been pushing his athletes to
in order to create an unstoppable dynamic. The Wildcat’s
first game of the season will be September 5th against the
Huntingdon College Hawks in Montgomery, Alabama. Later
in the Wildcat’s line up will be a match up against Sul Ross
State University which will mark LC’s first home game of
the season in Wildcat Stadium. Follow the development of
this season’s Louisiana College Wildcats as they embark on
their quest to bring home an American Southwest Conference
Championship to Pineville, La. Go Wildcats!
Wildcats look to Win Big in 2015
By: Andy Bryson
We had the opportunity to visit Louisiana College this preseason up in Pineville. If I can say only one thing about the Wildcats, it would be
“Family.” Every time I go to Pineville, I see Coach Dunn as more than a coach but as a
mentor to his team.
Coach Dunn continues to build a power house DIII football program. This year
was no different. Coach Dunn continues to find that rare talent and bring them to Louisi-
ana College.
One player to watch this season is junior quarterback Easton Melancon. He is a
five star quality athlete and is bringing some true excitement to Wildcat fans everywhere.
Melancon’s natural talent is being honed by Coach Dunn’s penchant for training exempla-
ry quarterbacks. Most notably while working at Evangel, Coach Dunn worked with for-
mer USC and NFL quarterback Josh Booty and former Miami Hurricane and current NFL
quarterback Brock Berlin. Easton is just another quarterback mentored by Coach Dunn
who could turn a lot of heads.
But Wildcat fans would expect no less from a man who led his Woodlawn High
School football team to three district championships and the state playoffs all five years of
his time there. Coach Dunn’s pedigree further includes coaching at Evangel Christian Academy where he turned the Eagles into one of the most successful
high school programs around. More impressively during all the years he was there, the Eagles never lost a district game. He coached 19 All-Americans
while at Evangel. And with an overall high school coaching record of 200-39, Coach Dunn certainly knows how to train very talented athletes.
This year the Wildcats have a ton of talent returning and a young group of talented freshmen. This team could turn a lot of heads and be very spe-
cial. Make sure you get your tickets today by contacting Jonathan Small with questions or to order your tickets! For athletics ticket information call (318) 487
-7965.
Louisiana College #7 Quarterback Easton Melancon, JR
QB Easton Melancon connects with his Receiver
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 10
Unleashed
By: Aniyah T. Foley
Maybe it’s a little nostalgic, but it’s well known that when you’ve been “sent to the dog house”, it means that you’re in trouble. At their own ex-
pense, opponents who attempted to challenge these “canines” of an elite breed last season discovered that this old statement had come back to bite and remind
them that it was still painstakingly true. The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, 2014 Heart of Dallas Bowl Champions, marked their territory last football season by
going 7-1 in the Conference USA West division, and also returned home
from the season with nine overall wins. With a mind that is set on surpas-
sing their adversaries in athleticism, the Bulldogs are in a constant state of
rigorous training as they challenge themselves to achieve yet another intim-
idating conference record this year. Declaring that La Tech Head Coach,
Skip Holtz, is surrounded by talent is an understatement. Starting offensive
lineman Kirby Wixson and wide receiver/kick returner Carlos Henderson
have both selected for watch lists that exclusively highlight athletes who
have talent and precision. Opportunity is evidently unending amongst this
breed of Bulldog in light of Louisiana Tech’s recently acquired preseason
credentials. The 2015 All-Conference USA teams list by Athlon Sports
noted that fifteen league- best selections were earned by LA Tech football
players. Six of those players received first team honors, as a result of their
tremendous effort, the Bulldogs out ranked any other Conference USA team
in All-Conference player selection. Coach Holtz and the Bulldogs are sum-
moning attention from across the country as they all continue to develop
together as a stronger team both individually and as a whole. As summer’s
temperatures continue to take it up a notch, I am certain that the Bulldogs
have been in Aillet Stadium doing the same.
Joe Aillet Stadium can be found in Ruston, Louisiana. The stadi-
um is capable of holding 30,600 faithful, die-hard La Tech Bulldog fans
per game. This upcoming season you should be one of them! September 9,
2015, will light the torch for the LA Tech Football Team as they undergo
their season opener against Southern University. The Jaguars will travel to Aillet Stadium to compete on the Bulldogs’ own, freshly re-done turf. To add to
the already existing excitement for this upcoming season, a sports coverage crew will be welcomed as well. This forthcoming 2015 season will mark the first
year that all Louisiana Tech football games will be televised! And all I can say is it’s about time! For both old and new non-local Bulldog fans who aren’t
able to witness this approaching season in the flesh-- this means everything! Louisiana Tech Football’s new partnership with American Sports Network
(ASN), will allow dedicated fans from across the country to capture every moment of this season’s Bulldogs showing their teeth to their opponents to signify
that trouble has made its presence known now that it’s time to play. Go Dawgs!
1984, A Year to Remember
By: Chassity Oubre
La Tech historic team was the one that played during the
1984 season. During that season, the Bulldogs finished with a
10-5 record overall, while going 5-1 in the Southland Confer-
ence. The Bulldogs won the Southland Conference Title and
entered the Division I-AA playoffs. They swept through the
playoffs and landed in the Championship game. While on their
playoff march, they defeated Mississippi Valley State, who at
that time had the star wide receiver Jerry Rice on their team. La
Tech’s 1984 historic football team was coached by second year
coach, A.L. Williams. Williams’ first season was not so good,
the team only won four games. Quarterback Kyle Gandy, led
the Bulldogs on their march to the Division I-AA Champion-
ship game. Gandy completed nearly 50% of his passes. Alt-
hough, Gandy only played in six games, he passed for 804
yards and 7 touchdowns, with a quarterback rating of 117.9.
One of the strongest reason that propelled La Tech through the
1984 historic football season, was the running game. Running
back David Green was the second leading rusher on the team
even though he only played in six games that season. The Bull-
dogs was only one game from being Division I-AA Champions
in 1984, but they lost to Montana State in the championship
game that historic season.
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 7
Leave that ouija board in the depths of
your attic and just come to Harry Turpin Stadium
instead. The Northwestern State University De-
mons and Head Coach Jay Thomas are summon-
ing NSU fans across the grid to Natchitoches,
Louisiana for a season unlike the rest. The mere
thought of demons appearing through your televi-
sion screen might sound a little too much like
Poltergeist, but don’t let that spook you out of
tuning in to American Sports Network to witness
NSU take on the Southeastern Lions. The North-
western State University Demons’ first game of
the season will be against Southeastern Louisiana
University on Thursday, September 3. As a mem-
ber of the Southland Conference, NSU has been
preparing for a challenging upcoming season
against their fellow conference competitors. De-
spite the journey ahead, Coach Jay Thomas has
been inspiring his athletes to reach their highest
potential.
Coach Thomas is going into his fifth
year at NSU football’s program, however he is in
his third year as the head coach at Northwestern
State. Coach Thomas’s continuously developing
relationship with the Demons was founded on his
prior experience as NSU’s assistant and defensive
line coach. His coaching career started long be-
fore that with eighteen years of combined South-
land Conference experience. After only two sea-
sons as head coach, Jay Thomas has already lead
the NSU Demons to the best two consecutive sea-
sons in the past decade.
As the new season continues to rapidly race towards its debut, both new and current De-mons are soon going to truly understand the im-portance of leaving everything on the gridiron. August 6 was the first fall preseason practice for Northwestern State University football program, and I’m sure NSU fans were just as eager as the players. The athletes were suited up to show fans what they are going to do in the Southland Confer-ence rankings this year. The performance of last season’s NSU players gained the Demons a total of six first-team slots on the 2015 Southland Pre-
Season All Conference team this summer. Amongst the selectees were: Srs. Pace Murphy (OL), Leroy Armstrong (DE), Adam Jones (S), and Ed Eagan (WR) . Most notably Ed Eagan has distinguished his multiple talents as a punt returner and receiver by being highlighted as a candidate for the STATS FCS Offensive Player of The Year. Current NSU Demons have excelled and have used their accomplishments to set the bar for their rookie counterparts this season. Coach Thom-as’s excellent guidance as NSU’s “Head Demon” has been leading his players in the right direction since his arrival in Natchitoches. Be sure to follow the development of this season’s 2015 Northwest-ern State University Demons. You’d have to be possessed to miss it! NSU WR during Spring Workouts
The first round of the 1-AA playoffs matched NSU with an over-
whelmed Illinois State team. Illinois State had put up more than 42 points in
the last 4 games leading up to the playoffs; the Purple Swarm would prove too
much holding the potent offense to only 28 points. The NSU offense, led by
Brad Spangler, would go on to break the school record for total offense in a
game with 650 yards. Spangler himself would throw for 344 of those yards
and tying Patterson’s record of 4 touchdown passes in a game. NSU would
then take on 7th seeded Appalachian State at home. Two long passes from
Spangler to receiver Eric Granger would boost the NSU team to a 31 to 20
victory. The 11th victory of the season marked only the second time in school
history NSU had won 11 games. The semi-final game would prove to be one
of the best moments in NSU school history.
The University of Massachusetts came into Turpin Stadium with the
ability to play with the Demons. Only having lost 3 games in the season, it
was evident that NSU would have to play their best ball of the season in order
to beat the Minutemen. Both teams had played their style effectively in the
first 3 quarters of the game; NSU led 24-21 going into the 4th quarter of play. Driving down the field in order to put the game out of reach, NSU made an un-
characteric play by throwing an interception the Minutemen returned to Demon-territory. UMass would score on the very next play giving them a 28-24 lead
on NSU. After stopping the NSU offense, the Purple Swarm allowed a rare score in a clutch situation putting the game out of reach, 34-24, with only 2
minutes left to play. In a moment of desperation, NSU allowed the Minutemen to gain possession and another late score putting the game of ice. It was at that
moment, when the score was out of reach, that the significance of the NSU team was displayed. Dr. Broussard, Coach Goodwin, and Mr. Rollins all recall
this moment as being extraordinary. According to multiple sources, the 350 member band began to play and the fans stood up and saluted Coach Goodwin as
they sang along with the music. Dr. Broussard said “the success of the ’98 team united a university and surrounding community in a way I had not observed
many organizations do in my lifetime. I am proud moment to be a part of that moment, and it demonstrated to me how sport can be a uniter of peoples.” Mr.
Rollins recalls that the “disappointment of that game was almost reversed by the support of the crowd, a rare and unusually spectacular moment.” UMass
would go on to beat a sloppy Georgia Southern team to win the national title.
Very rarely in sports does a team bring together a community the way the 1998 Northwestern State football team did. The success of that team can
be contributed to many factors, plethora of NFL talent, a uniquely talented coaching staff, and a supportive and relentless community, but nothing trumps the
human desire to come together. The players, coaches, staff, and community of that NSU team created a bond within themselves that will never be broken nor
forgotten. We can only look back on what occurred in 1998 as a reminder of what sports are able to contribute to the human spirit.
Haunting the Competition
By: Aniyah T. Foley
www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 8
Tidal
By: Aniyah T. Foley
Ride the wave into Yulman Stadium this football season as Tulane
University enters their second season within the American Athletic Confer-
ence. Head Coach Curtis Johnson will be entering into his fourth year along-
side the Green Wave in his hometown, New Orleans, Louisiana. Knowing
that Coach Johnson once served as the wide receivers coach for our state’s
beloved New Orleans Saints, it’s no surprise that he’s been training his ath-
letes at Tulane to perform at a whole other level of precision. With 28 years
of coaching experience under his cap, Coach CJ has left his imprint on the
turf-loving hearts of Tulane Fans across the state. Fondly known as Coach
CJ, his athletes have all learned from Coach Johnson what it means to be
truly dedicated to the life you love. Coach Johnson focuses his recruiting in
the Crescent City because some of the best talent in the country is found in
New Orleans. Sixty-one athletes are from Louisiana , with 42 of
them hailing from the Crescent City. His dedication to football and
Tulane University has provided an amazing opportunity for players
across the state who aspire to polish their athletic careers in their
own “back-swamp.”
During his tenure with Tulane University so far, it has
been noted with awe that at least seven players from the Green
Wave have been recruited by National Football League teams.
Furthermore, since Coach CJ is credited with Tulane’s immaculate
2013 turnaround season (a season in which they had the most wins
since 2002 and went to their eleventh bowl), I can’t wait to see how
this season progresses. The Green Wave will be transforming slight
ripples into an overwhelming tsunami as they kick off their first
game of the season on Thursday, September 3, against Duke Uni-
versity. This will be the first home game of the season.
New signees such as Darius Black, Devin Glenn, and Keeyon
Smart all share a few common characteristics such as their three-star recruit
status given to them by ESPN.com and their common origin from the state of
Louisiana.. I am sure that these factors will provide cohesion for Tulane’s
football program this year. Ensuring success in the present will be returning
players and All- Conference candidates such as: Sophomore RB Sherman
Badie, Junior LB Nico Marley, and Senior DE Royce LaFrance. Recently
LaFrance and his teammate Chris Taylor have both been spotlighted for be-
ing placed on the 2015 Rotary Lombardi Award watch list. During his sopho-
more year, Taylor made a splash as an offensive line starter. Through a col-
lective effort, Tulane’s offense averaged 346.8 yards per game last year and
looks to improve on that this year. Keep your eyes on the horizon for this
season’s Green Wave, or get swept by the surge!
#12 Tanner Lee, QB connects with #89 Ardoin, Kendall , TE for a TD
Tulane Fall Practice
By: Andy Bryson
While I attended practice I watched Coach Johnson run a well oiled machine.
Tulane had true freshmen starting at every position on the field last season. With all that ex-
perience , the Wave is looking to make a huge splash this season in the AAC. Quarterback
Tanner Lee is an excellent quarterback who took over the starter position last season as a true
freshmen. He acquired the job from Nick Montana, son of Hall of Fame quarterback Joe
Montana.
Coach Johnson continues to build the Green Wave to its former glory by recruiting
local guys from New Orleans. Why would he leave the state to get athletes when the best
athletes are right in his back yard in New Orleans and surrounding areas. Coach Johnson
feels passionately that in order to improve/grow the community the young talent needs to stay
in the area. He also believes that education comes first. So it is no surprise that he chose to
work at Tulane a school that has always been heralded as having excellent academic pro-
grams and course work.
Practice told me a lot about the players on this young team. The Wave’s players
are excited to be on the field and are ready for regular season to start as soon as possible.
They have been very busy with strength and conditioning in the off season and now they are
ready to put cleats to the field.
Tulane may be a young team but after all the experience they had last season, they
are playing like a veterans. Last season that young defense kept the Wave in every game and
if the offence improves on the turnovers this season, they will have a huge turnaround. Roll-
Wave!
Date Opponent / Event Location
09/03 vs. Duke (Thurs.) Yulman Stadium
09/12 at Georgia Tech Atlanta, Ga.
09/19 vs. Maine Yulman Stadium
10/03 vs. UCF Yulman Stadium
10/10 at Temple Philadelphia, Pa.
10/16 vs. Houston (Fri.) Yulman Stadium
10/24 at Navy Annapolis, Md.
10/31 at Memphis Memphis, Tenn.
11/07 vs. UConn
(Homecoming)
Yulman Stadium
11/14 at Army West Point, N.Y.
11/21 at SMU Dallas, Texas
11/27 vs. Tulsa Yulman Stadium
2015 Tulane Green Wave
Schedule
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www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com 9
LSU Fall Camp
By: Andy Bryson
After attending LSU’s practice, I came away with several conclusions. First being that LSU is severely underrated going into this season. Now that is a great thing for Tiger fans because the Tigers will be able to surprise a bunch of teams this season. There is some great competition at Quarterback now that Anthony Jennings has returned from suspension. I feel that when the Tigers line up this season in the Spread, there will be mismatches all over the place. LSU currently has one of, if not, the best running back duo in the backfield. At Tight End, LSU has the best two receiving Tight Ends in the nation. The Offensive Line has gotten massive in recent years, and have also improved their overall football skills under Coach Grimes. Do I even need to say anything about LSU Wide Receivers? No, I don’t but I will. The Wide Re-ceiver core at LSU is fast, agile, and ready for the long run. Now on the Defensive side, the Tigers always place in the top of all colligate teams, and this year should be no different.
Why I am so confident about the Tigers? Good question. When the Tigers line up in a spread, there is so much speed and talent on the edges that everyone will have to spread out their defense . The opposing team’s Safeties will have to come out of the box and play on the edges. What does that mean for us? That means that there will be holes in the middle for our running backs to run through; and I, for one, am looking forward to watching some 5’11”, 190 lbs Safety try and stop 6’1”, 235 lbs Fournette. The only question concerning the Tigers is at the Quarterback position. To be honest, I did not see that as a problem when I was at LSU. Both Jennings and Harris were connecting with their receivers and backs on both deep and short passes. As long as Miles allows the offense to throw the ball about 40-60% of the time, the Tigers will be a mismatch for any team in the best possible way. In short, the Tigers are going to be in a great position this season with all those athletes they have signed in the past three years. LSU has recruited a top five class in all of the past three years depending on which recruiting source you quote. I look to see the Tigers have a 10 win to undefeated season this year. LSU is just too talented and experienced to do any less. After all, LSU started and played 22 true freshmen last season. Geaux Tigers!
#15 Malachi Dupre, SO
Tigers are Bound to Roar By: Aniyah Foley
We are only days away until the black and gold Tigers make their 2015 foot-
ball season debut. Grambling State University will be representing the SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference) on September 5th in an away game as they take on the University of California at Berkeley. Personally, a weekend rendezvous to the Gold-en State in effort to support the revered Tigers that Saturday sounds incredibly enticing yet astoundingly out of the realms of my current pay scale. Luckily, their first home game will be that following Saturday, September 12th, against Bethune-Cookman Uni-versity, so let’s get those season tickets ready. It’s been noted that Grambling’s motto is: “Where Everybody is Somebody” but it’s evident that not just anybody is their Head Coach. After coming away with a 7-2 final conference record and a 7-5 overall record during their 2014 season, we know that the Tigers and Coach Broderick Fobbs are more than ready to bring on a season of victory in the name of Grambling State Athletics this upcoming season. Coach Fobbs is entering into his second year as GSU’s Head Coach. Once a running back for Grambling State during the years 1992-96, Coach Broderick Fobbs has shifted gears on the Tiger’s and is now leading his Alma Mater on a promising journey of diligence, dedication, and perseverance. Stats have made it blatantly clear that this past season Grambling State Univer-sity not only dominated their conference in sacks, but also the entire nation with an unbe-lievable 45 sacks in total. These tigers have some serious bite! It’s an understatement that GSU has more than mastered the art of sacking; so you better believe that they are now focused on recalibrating and fine-tuning other aspects of their game. Grambling’s Offensive Coordinator Eric Dooley provided some key insights during an interview after the Tiger’s Annual Black and Gold game that players participated in during March of this year. After analyzing his players going helmet-to-helmet with one another during the rainy day scrimmage, he shared his thoughts that it would be beneficial to his offensive line if they would continue to develop their running game during the off-season. These off-season workouts will greatly influence players like Senior QB, No. 17 Johnathan Williams, recipient of the 2014 Eddie G. Robinson Most Valuable Player Award, as well as Sophomore FB, No.49 Dre’ Fusiler who exerts promising potential. The Tiger’s ex-ceedingly rigorous preparation for this upcoming season only continues to build the an-ticipation that’s growing in wake of their highlighted matchups. Watch out for the GSU Tigers against their SWAC rivals such as Texas Southern and Southern University.