5.......Games to Watch 8.......Airline 10.......Benton 12.......Bossier
14.......Haughton 16.......Parkway 18.......Plain Dealing 22.......District Previews
Copyright © 2020 by Specht Newspapers Inc. All rights reserved. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed.
Bossier Parish Football Preview is a special supplement to the Bossier Press-Tribune.
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2020 season one to remember...for many reasons Welcome to the 2020 high school football season, which will perhaps be the most unique one in Bossier Parish history.
As of publication, the matter of whether fans, bands, dance lines and support groups will be allowed at games hadn’t been decided.
As of the deadline for publication of this preview, it’s still more than five weeks until the season is scheduled to kick off.
Regardless, if the season is held, it will be another interesting one in the parish.
Usually, The Press-Tribune’s preview comes out the week of the Bossier Lions Club Jamboree, which was originally scheduled for Friday. This season, however, there will be no jamboree. All of the above is, of course, because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With Louisiana remaining in Phase II of the re-opening until at least Aug. 28, the LHSAA pushed back the start of the season until Thursday, Oct. 8. Bossier Parish teams will likely play their first games Oct. 9, though. Of course, things could still change in the weeks ahead. But we’re obviously proceeding on the assumption the season will be held this fall. How many games each team will play in the regular season is still up in the air. So is the number of teams in each class that will make the playoffs.
By Russell Hedges
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Sports Editor, Bossier Press-Tribune rhedges@bossierpress.com
Last year, Airline claimed a share of the District 1-5A title and reached the quarterfinals of the playoffs. Haughton won 11 games and advanced to the semifinals. That kind of success is certainly possible again this year. The parish has two new head coaches. Coy Brotherton, who helped turn Captain Shreve around as the offensive coordinator the last five seasons, takes over at Parkway. It’s Brotherton’s second stint as a head coach in the parish. He held the position at Plain Dealing from 2010-14. Brotherton is the younger brother of Haughton head coach Jason Brotherton. The two will go head to head in a District 1-5A matchup. Christopher Wilson is the new head coach at Plain Dealing. He comes from Mansfield where he was an assistant under Mike Green. It’s Wilson’s first head coaching job.
But Gabe Larry, who started Parkway’s first eight games last year and five in 2018, has transferred to a school in Texas for his senior season. Peyton Stovall, Haughton’s starter the last two seasons and a two-time All-Parish selection, has decided not to play so he can focus on baseball, which will be his sport in college at Arkansas. Benton returns Caleb Cassidy, who started the second half of last season as a sophomore. Airline has the most experience at the position. Alex Garcia, the All-Parish Offensive MVP in 2019, is back for his senior season. That’s a major reason why the Vikings are among the favorites to repeat as 1-5A champs. Garcia didn’t go into last season with much hype and then had a breakout year. It will be interesting to see if another quarterback can do that this season. Even if the season is shortened, there should be plenty of competitive district games, especially in 1-5A. Bossier and Plain Dealing won’t be the favorites in their respective districts. But that will just give the Bearkats and Lions motivation to pull some upsets.
While there are many outstanding players returning, one position where the majority of teams lack experience is quarterback.
With all the challenges teams have faced because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be a big win if the season just gets played without any hitches.
Last year, it didn’t look like that would be the case.
That will be something of an upset itself.
Haughton vs. Benton The Bucs won 36-7 last season. This could be a district opener so the winner will gain some momentum. Last year, the game was deemed the Battle for the Wooden Hippo. Haughton’s Peyton Stovall passed for five TD passes. But neither he nor Benton starter Clint Lasiter are back this year.
Airline vs. Haughton This game played a big role in determining the district championship last year and will likely do so again this year. The Vikings won 22-19. Both teams could have a few games under their belts by this time. Senior quarterback Alex Garcia could give the Vikings the upper hand with his experience. But both teams have key players back on defense and it could be low-scoring again.
Haughton vs. Parkway This game could be dubbed the Brotherton Bowl with Parkway first-year head coach Coy Brotherton facing off against his brother Jason. It may be the first time two brothers in the parish have gone head-to-head as head coaches. Both teams will have new quarterbacks. The Panthers will be looking for redemption after last year’s 38-14 loss in the regular-season finale.
Airline vs. Byrd The Vikings will be looking for some revenge after last season’s 21-6 loss, Airline’s lone district defeat. Byrd, under veteran head coach Mike Suggs, will likely be in the thick of the chase for the title again after going 4-3 last season. Byrd played a tough non-district schedule last season but won’t have to contend with that this season.
Benton vs. Airline The Tigers had the Vikings on the ropes in the fourth quarter last season, but Airline rallied for a 29-16 victory to keep their district championship hopes alive. Benton could have one of the best defenses in the area this season. The development of the offense could determine how this one turns out.
Airline vs. Captain Shreve The Vikings won 21-14 in the regular-season finale
last year to earn a share of the district title with the the Gators. Shreve was hit hard by graduation but the Gators have one of the state’s most exciting players in receiver/running back Kendrick Law. Head coach Bryant Sepulvado looks like he has Shreve headed in the right direction.
Parkway vs. Benton The Panthers played perhaps their best game of last season against the Tigers, winning 49-26. The game was the first for Benton as a member of District 1-5A. This likely will be an early-season game. Both teams look to be improved on defense so it might not be as high-scoring as last season.
Parkway vs. Captain Shreve Parkway first-year head coach Coy Brotherton will be going against his former team. He spent the last five years as the Gators offensive coordinator. Shreve dominated 35-13 last season.
Bossier vs. Green Oaks The Giants won 39-13 last season and return several offensive starters including receiver DeColdest Crawford, an LSU commit, and quarterback Keith Baker, a four-year starter. The Bearkats lost most of their offensive firepower to graduation. This will likely be a late-season game, though, so if Bossier can get some victories and momentum early in the season the Bearkats will have a chance to pull an upset.
Bossier vs. Loyola College Prep This was one of the best games of the 2019 season. The Bearkats hung in to the end before falling 35-28. Loyola went on to claim the district championship. The Flyers have a new head coach in Scott Mallien. Loyola looks solid again with a defense led by linebacker Sam Szwak.
Plain Dealing vs. Haynesville The Lions put some points on the board last season but couldn’t stop the Tors in a 48-24 loss. This will likely be an early season game and could be the first district game for new head coach Christopher Wilson. Last season was a down one for the Tors by Haynesville standards. They will be looking to prove it was a fluke.
Plain Dealing vs. Arcadia The Hornets were too much for the Lions last year, winning 44-14. Because of injuries and other issues, Plain Dealing had only 20 available players for the game. Still, the Lions were in it at the half, trailing by 14. This will likely be an early season game so Plain Dealing has a chance to come into the game healthy. If so, the Lions may be able to get some revenge.
Editor’s Note: Specific times and dates were not available at press time.
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2019 Results: 10-3
Ouachita Parish W 28-20 Union Parish W 36-12 Ruston L 49-28
Natchitoches Central W 21-7 Southwood W 42-13 Haughton W 22-19 Parkway W 24-0
Byrd L 21-6 Benton W 29-16 Captain Shreve W 21-14 *Southside W 55-21
*East St. John W 45-29 *Acadiana L 34-7 *Playoffs
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Head Coach Bo Meeks (10th year, 58-44) Stadium M.D. Ray Field at Airline Stadium Scouting report OFFENSE: The QB position is in very good hands with All-Parish Offensive MVP Alex Garcia returning for his senior year. The Vikings will be inexperienced at receiver with senior Devin Bilbo the lone returning starter. Meeks expects new receivers Xavion Butler and Bryson Turner to both be big contributors. The line will have plenty of experience, though, with senior returning starters Hayden Howard, Daimian McDowell and Jackson White. Tough runner Rovelle Young returns at RB. Jamall Asberry, a transfer from Parkway, has the potential to be an 1,000-yard rusher. Senior Jackson Tinkis returns for his fourth season as the PK. DEFENSE: The Vikings have only three returning starters — senior DL Dvarrick Woods, senior DB Tracy Hudson and senior LB Fred Manning. But all three should be among the area’s best at their respective positions. Meeks likes the way linemen Trent Patterson, Jyson Thomas and Keon Manning have progressed through the offseason. He also believes LB has the potential to be among the team’s deepest and strongest positions. Willie Sanders has a lot of potential, Meeks said. Keegan Lehr is among the newcomers in a secondary that Meeks said will need 9/2/20
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Alex Garcia QB, Sr.
Tracy Hudson DB, Sr.
Devarrick Woods DL, Sr.
The Offensive MVP on the All-Parish team last season, Garcia completed 206 of 372 yards for 2,745 yards and 27 touchdowns in 13 games. While he didn’t have a lot of rushing yards, Garcia has the ability to to evade the rush and throw on the run.
Hudson is the lone returning starter in the secondary. He will be counted on to provide leadership as the younger players gain experience.
A returning first-team AllParish selection, the 6-3, 275-pound Woods is capable of disrupting offenses almost by himself. A strong contender for All-Parish MVP, he had 75 tackles, including 15 for loss, 31 QB pressures and five batteddown passes last season.
rmwq+ to “rise to the occasion” for the defense to be successful. “Although we don’t have a lot of experience returning defensively, we have a hungry, talented group eager to prove themselves,” Meeks said. OUTLOOK: Airline is coming off a 10-3 season. The Vikings fell to eventual state champion Acadiana in the 5A quarter-
finals. Airline will again be a strong contender for the district title. Garcia and Bilbo are primed to have big years. The development of the rest of the receivers will be key. The onetwo backfield punch of Young and Asberry will be among the area’s best, especially with the experience on the line. The development of the defense could tell the story. “Although we lost
a very strong group of seniors, we are really excited about the core of quality players and leadership we have returning,” Meeks said. “We also feel good about the young talent in our program. It will be a matter of putting it all together against another tough schedule.”
2019 Results: 5-6 Oak Grove W 33-21 Vicksburg W 49-48
Huntington W 57-30 Parkway L 49-26 Haughton L 36-7
Captain Shreve L 58-14 Byrd L 46-31 Southwood W 44-25
Airline L 29-16 Natchitoches Central W 18-15 *Acadiana L 78-28 *Playoffs
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Head Coach Reynolds Moore (58-25, 8th year) Stadium Tiger Stadium Scouting report OFFENSE: With returning starters Nathan Hardin, Tucker Gibbs, Charlie Nance and Braysen Brown, Moore says the line is the “best we’ve had since the 2017 season” when the Tigers went 10-0. Junior QB Caleb Cassidy started the final six games last season. Moore says he and sophomore Gray Walters will battle for the starting job. Returning starter Evan Cole brings speed at slot receiver. Moore is high on WRs Dane Stearns and Pearce Russell. Moore expects “three or four players” to help fill the void left by the graduation of 2019 leading rusher Cameron Barnett. Junior RJ Moore will handle kicking duties for the third straight year. DEFENSE: Moore expects defense to be the team’s strong suit. Linemen Rowe
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Thompson, Cade Waites, Davis Sellers and EJ Washington are all returning starters. Senior Ashur Hall is a three-year starter. “Ashur sets the tone for our defense,” Moore said. The second-
Ashur Hall LB, Sr.
Nathan Hardin OL, Sr.
Cade Waites DL, Sr.
A two-time first-team AllParish selection and threeyear starter, he is one of the area’s top players. Hall led the team last season with 90 tackles, including 11 for loss. He has the ability to make game-changing plays and will be counted on as a leader.
Hardin is among a strong group of returning starters on the offensive line. The Tigers lack experience at running back, but Hardin and company’s strength and experience should make up for that.
A three-year starter and returning All-Parish selection, Waites had 51 tackles, including 10 for loss, last season. He also blocked two kicks. Waites is part of what could be one of the area’s best defensive lines.
rmwq+ ary lacks experience. Improvement in that area has been a focal point during the offseason. “We have some guys who have potential, but we need them to step up and show some consistency,” Moore said. OUTLOOK: The Tigers are coming off a 5-6 season that included a midseason slump and a strong finish. In Benton’s first season in Class 5A, the Tigers went 2-5 in District 1-5A. That record has a chance to be much better this season with the experience Benton has on the line on both sides of the ball. Both Cassidy and Walters have the potential to be among the
area’s best QBs. “We feel like we have a deep toolbox of weapons on offense and we know that we have the guys to get it done on defense,” Moore said. Special teams should be another strength. Benton made the playoffs last season, and Moore said that’s a point of pride since it was the first year in 5A. But he has set the bar higher this season. “We want to be playing Thanksgiving week (or whatever the corresponding week might be this season) and beyond,” he said.
2019 Results: 7-4 Madison W 32-12 Lakeside W 69-26
Logansport W 48-40 North Caddo W 28-13 Montgomery W 33-8
North Webster L 35-28 Loyola L 35-28 Mansfield W 41-22
Green Oaks L 39-13 Beekman Charter W 48-16 *Kaplan L 46-14
*Playoffs
PLAYERS TO WATCH
RUSSELL HEDGES/PRESS-TRIBUNE Senior WR/DB Makhi Tanner led the team in pass breakups and was their leading receiver last season.
Head Coach Michael Concilio (57-80, 14th year)
Coleman Beeson QB, Sr.
Avery Williams DB/QB, Sr.
Isaiah Taylor OG, Sr.
A returning starter, he passed for 774 yards last season in the run-oriented Wing-T. Beeson knows how to run the Wing-T, which should make things easier for the newcomers in the backfield.
He had three interceptions last season. His leadership ability is one of his greatest assets. While his roles of backup QB and starting DB are important, he could also play other positions on offense.
A returning starter, Taylor could also see action on defense and special teams. Concilio said he stepped up as a leader during summer workouts with his attendance and commitment.
Stadium Memorial Stadium Scouting report OFFENSE: The Bearkats will have a tough task replacing 1,000-yard rushers Decamerion Richardson and James Davis. Concilio says a variety of young running backs will have to step up. But senior QB Coleman Beeson returns to run the Wing-T and should play a bigger role. He passed for 774 yards last season, an impressive total in a run-oriented offense. Makhi Tanner returns at WR and could also see action at RB. Backup QB Avery Williams could also play a
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rmwq+ variety of positions. G Isaiah Taylor, a two-year starter, anchors the line. Concilio is also high on new OL Jairo Montalbano and Moses Thomas. K/SE Cristobal Cruz is another player expected to contribute. DEFENSE: Richardson and Davis will also be difficult to replace in the secondary. But Tanner and Williams both return. Williams, who had three interceptions last season, is expected to be a team
leader. LB Juan Guardiana is another player Concilio expects to play a leadership role. The line will be inexperienced with Montalbano taking one of the positions. Concilio describes him as a “real strong kid.” OUTLOOK: The Bearkats are coming off their first winning season since 2012. They also made the playoffs for the first time since that year. As usual,
Concilio will be counting on several two-way players so conditioning will be a key to success. Williams and Beeson are among 17 seniors and their leadership will help determine the Bearkats’ success. “These young men have held our program together this summer,” Concilio said. “We will need the rest of the upperclassmen to start coming around rather quickly. We are staying optimistic.”
2019 Results: 11-3
Red River W 46-7 East Ascension W 41-23 Woodlawn W 55-12
Byrd W 35-14 Benton W 36-7 Airline L 22-19 Southwood W 41-19
Captain Shreve L 14-7 Natchitoches Central W 17-10 Parkway W 38-14 *Ouachita Parish W 28-7
*Comeaux W 23-21 *Mandeville W 34-14 *Destrehan L 27-17 *Playoffs
PLAYERS TO WATCH
ROBERT SUMMERLIN/PRESS-TRIBUNE No. 40 Dylan Turner closes in on the opposition to make a tackle last season.
Head Coach Jason Brotherton (32-16, 5th year) Stadium Harold E. Harlan Stadium Scouting report OFFENSE: The Bucs were hit hard by graduation with the loss of receivers CJ McWilliams, Tristan Sweeney and Matthew Whitten and RB Keyshawn Davis. And Peyton Stovall, a two-time All-Parish selection, has decided not to play in order to focus on baseball, his college sport. Brotherton, though, has confidence in his likely successor, sophomore Colin Rains, who helped the Bucs win two lateseason games when Stovall was injured. Elijah Rochon returns at WR. Three seniors — Peyton Bates, Tyler Vogan and Cade Ebarb — return on the line, which
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should be a strength. Brotherton expects sophomore RB Dexter Smith to be a major contributor. The kicking game should be strong with the return of Carter
Elijah Rochon WR, Sr.
Jake St. Andre LB, Sr.
Dylan Turner LB, Sr.
He is the team’s lone receiver with experience. Last year, Rochon caught 17 passes for 225 yards and four touchdowns. He has the ability to make big plays and his stats should go way up this season.
A three-year starter and two-time first-team All-Parish selection, St. Andre had 145 tackles in the full 2019 season. He has the ability to find the football and make gamechanging plays.
A first-team All-Parish selection and three-year starter, Turner had 83 tackles, including seven for loss, and four sacks in the full 2019 season. Playing on the outside, he is very effective at both putting pressure on the quarterback and stopping the run.
rmwq+ Jensen. DEFENSE: This should be the Bucs’ strong suit especially early in the season. LBs Jake St. Andre and Dylan Turner are both three-year starters. Cade Ebarb, another three-year starter, anchors the line. Sean Hardison is also back at linebacker. Logan Wilkerson provides experience in the secondary. Brotherton also expects big things out of LB Jack Edwards, L Kishaun Dunbar and L DJ Gladney. Edwards, who is coming off a torn ACL, and Dunbar both saw playing time last year.
OUTLOOK: The Bucs are coming off one of the best seasons in school history. Haughton went 11-3 and reached the Class 5A semifinals. How the newcomers on offense step up will tell a lot of the story of the 2020 season. Five sophomores could start on offense. The Bucs were capable of scoring from anywhere on the field last year. “The Bucs lost lots of firepower, but figure to be in the thick of a competitive district race,” Brotherton said. “The defense will need to be strong early to allow the young offense time to adjust.”
2019 Results: 4-6
Minden W 48-28 North DeSoto W 35-14
Alexandria L 42-0 Benton W 49-26 Captain Shreve L 35-13
Byrd W 14-13 Airline L 24-0 Natchitoches Central L 33-14
Southwood L 18-16 Haughton L 38-14
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Head Coach Coy Brotherton (0-0, 1st year) Stadium Bobby Marlow Field at Preston Crownover Stadium Scouting report OFFENSE: With 6-2, 290-pound Malachi White and 6-3, 320-pound Devon Hall as the tackles, size up front will be a strength. Returning C Chavious Williams is the lone senior on the offensive line. Panthers are deep at WR with the return of Jalun Reed and Quincy Jones. Four juniors and two sophomores could also start or get significant playing time. Sophomore Eli Harper, who started the final two games last season, and junior Cannon Link are battling to be the starting QB. Ron’tayvious Richmond, who gained 778 yards rushing and receiving last season, will be looking for a big year. Versatile athlete Brady Norcross will also get carries along with sophomore FB Barrett Newman. K Nolan Dean returns. Aeron Burrell and Tyler Bouillon add depth to the position. Long snapper Palmer Hearne also returns.
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DEFENSE: Dillion Jackson, who was at Loyola last year, is the new defensive coordinator. He and Brotherton have installed a 3-4 defense and the front seven
Connor Norcross LB, Sr.
Jalun Reed WR, Sr.
Trenton Defatta DL, Sr.
Norcross had 25 solo tackles and 58 assists in 10 games last season, ranking second on the team with 83 total. He was in on 11 tackles behind the line of scrimmage.
Reed is statistically the top returning receiver in the parish. Last season, he caught 18 passes for 468 yards, an average of 26 yards per catch, and four touchdowns. One of his TDs went for 94 yards. Five of his catches went for 40 or more.
A first-team All-Parish selection and three-year starter, Defatta should be one of the area’s top players at his position. He has the ability to to disrupt plays. Last year, he was in on 46 tackles.
rmwq+ should be the team’s strength. Returning All-Parish selection Trenton Defatta anchors the line. Brotherton is expecting big things from new starters Iziah Lewis and Cam Garrick. Ty Shelton, Connor Norcross and Anthony Watson, all seniors, are returning starters at LB. Newman could see action at LB along with Raymond Johnson and Khris Mesloh. Safety Daruisz Patterson is the lone returnee in the secondary. Seniors Noah Wolf and Johnathan Thompson will likely join him there. OUTLOOK: The Panthers are coming off a 4-6 season exacerbated by some off-the-field challenges.
They certainly have the potential to improve the win total this season. With an experienced linebacking corps, the defense could be the team’s strength early. The development of whoever wins the starting QB job will obviously be key. With talented and experienced receivers capable of big plays, the passing game could wind up being a strength. The running game has the potential to be strong too. Parkway will likely play the underdog role in the big district games, but with some upsets the Panthers could be in the thick of the race for the title.
2019 Results: 5-6
Huntington L 47-21 North Caddo W 29-28
Tensas W 32-2 Haynesville L 48-24 Arcadia L 44-14
Lincoln Prep W 42-13 Ringgold W 36-7 Calvary Baptist L 62-8
Homer L 51-24 Magnolia School W 56-0 *Delta Charter L 42-38 *Playoffs
PLAYERS TO WATCH
COURTESY PHOTO Plain Dealing will welcome a new head coach in Christopher Wilson.
Head Coach Christopher Wilson (0-0, first year) Stadium Lions Stadium Scouting report OFFENSE: Wilson is installing a run-based spread offense with senior RB Ladavious Scott the focal point until the new receivers and returnees from last season gel. The line could be a strength as Mason Judah, Isaiah Turner, Reagan Foster, Jamauriel Rey and Duranzyk Newton all had productive summers in the weight room. Braeden Sterling, a lineman last season, takes 9/2/20
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Ladavious Scott RB, Sr.
Duranzyk Newton OL/DL, Sr.
Braeden Sterling QB/LB, Jr.
Scott rushed for 533 yards on 81 carries in the 2019 regular season. Those numbers should go up this season. His experience will help the team early in the season as the Lions gets used to Wilson’s new system.
He is one of the top returning linemen in the parish. Newton’s greatest contribution could come on defense where he has the ability to get in the backfield and disrupt plays.
Sterling was a lineman last season, but he has “been working hard in his new role,” Wilson said, and emerged as a “great leader” during summer workouts. He will have several talented receivers to work with.
rmwq+ over at QB. Sophomore WR Cedarius Johnson, an outstanding athlete, returns. WR Ar’Drevious Washington is also back. At 6-foot-4, WR Kendric Blanks, a newcomer, should also be a key contributor to the success of the offense. DEFENSE: Returning starter Newton, a nose tackle, will be a disruptor and should help the Lions be better prepared to stop the run. Wilson expects DEs Blanks and 6-1 Eli James to be effective pass defenders. 6-2 Desmond Jackson will be counted on to seal the edge. Sterling, Judah and Gregory Grabowski are the linebackers. Washington and Johnson provide speed in the secondary. Wilson is also high on the potential of 8th-grader Tyrese Kimble.
OUTLOOK: As it usually is, depth will be an issue with most starters playing on both sides of the ball. Despite injuries and other issues that depleted the squad, the Lions won five games last season. Wilson had just over 20 players generally at summer workouts. He expects to add eight to 10 more. The development of Sterling will be key. Wilson said he has a “live arm” and is a “great leader.” Wilson brings a lot of enthusiasm and confidence to his job that should rub off on his players. He said the Lions are in great shape mentally and physically coming off summer workouts, but it could take a little time for the team to gel. Once that happens, he expects his team to make some noise in the district.
2019 Regular Season Statistical Leaders (* = Returning this season)
Passing C-A-I Yards TDs * Alex Garcia, Airline 158-280-10 2,250 24 Ken Gay, Plain Dealing 155-289-9 2,013 24 Peyton Stovall, Haughton 93-165-4 1,480 16 Clint Lasiter, Benton 76-140-5 1,099 13 Gabe Larry, Parkway 68-151-9 1,074 11 * Coleman Beeson, Bossier 39-774-5 721 10 * Caleb Cassidy, Benton 67-122-7 700 9 * Elijah Harper, Parkway 27-51-2 378 4 * Colin Rains, Haughton 14-20-1 259 4 CJ McWilliams, Haughton 15-30-2 197 4
Rushing Carries Yards TDs Decamerion Richardson, Bossier 135 1,206 9 James Davis, Bossier 118 1,063 15 Cameron Barnett, Benton 137 720 7 Keyshawn Davis, Haughton 153 643 7 * Ron’tayvious Richmond, Parkway 125 597 2 * Jamall Asberry, Parkway 103 559 5 (Transferred to Airline) * Ladavious Scott, Plain Dealing 81 533 4 Rico St. Fluer, Bossier 66 372 7 *Rovelle Young, Airline 82 369 5 Ken Gay, Plain Dealing 82 345 6 Jamal Johnson, Airline 92 330 1
Receiving Catches Yards TDs Darrien Perry, Plain Dealing 70 887 10 Daniel Smith, Airline 50 870 14 Matthew Whitten, Haughton 40 710 9 Tristan Sweeney, Haughton 42 632 6 Kevin Pouncy, Airline 49 631 1 Malik Antwine, Benton 49 558 8 * Jalun Reed, Parkway 18 468 4 Artis Cole, Benton 28 456 6 CJ McWilliams, Haughton 21 436 6 * Devin Bilbo, Airline 25 407 4 Artavious Washington-Carper, Plain Dealing 27 363 4 Ladarious O’Neal, Plain Dealing 28 361 3 * Cedarius Johnson, Plain Dealing 24 325 6 * Evan Cole, Benton 19 312 3 Peyton Lewis, Parkway 24 298 1 * Quincy Jones, Parkway 26 279 4 Cameron Barnett, Benton 21 252 3 Thomas Williams, Airline 19 230 3 9/2/20
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1-1A OUR PREDICTION 1. Calvary Baptist 2. Haynesville 3. Homer 4. Plain Dealing 5. Arcadia 6. Lincoln Prep 7. Ringgold 8. Magnolia Charter
1-3A OUR PREDICTION 1. Green Oaks 2. Loyola 3. Bossier 4. North Webster 5. Mansfield
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It’s more than a slight understatement to say the Calvary Baptist Cavaliers dominated District 1-1A last season.
Despite some key losses, including four-year starting quarterback Cade Hart, the Cavaliers will play the role of favorite this season.
Calvary averaged 57 points in seven district victories. The Cavs defense wasn’t bad, either, giving up more than one touchdown in only one game, a 51-14 victory over Lincoln Prep.
Senior wingback Joseph Wilson leads five returning starters on offense. Junior Landry Lyddy is expected to take over at quarterback.
Calvary also broke perennial Class 1A power Haynesville’s 71-game district winning streak with a 70-0 rout in Week 9. It was the second-worst loss in Haynesville’s long and storied history. Calvary finished 11-1 after losing a 49-47 heartbreaker to eventual champion Ouachita Christian in the quarterfinals of the Division I playoffs.
Last year, the Loyola Flyers and Green Oaks Giants met in a district opener. The Flyers won 36-28 in a game that ultimately decided the district championship. No one would be shocked if the Loyola-Green Oaks game decides the title again this season. The Flyers have a new head coach with Scott Mallien replacing Steven Geter.
Jordan Wallace, a receiver and cornerback, is another key returning starter. Lineman Denham Smith and linebacker Dustin Lane should also be among the defensive leaders. Haynesville is coming of what has to be considered a subpar season considering the success the Golden Tornado is used to. But the Tors still managed to finish runner-up in the district.
to Shreveport. The Flyers return junior quarterback Jacob Lafitte along with tight end Chase Jackson and receiver Tray Taylor. Returning senior first-team All-District linebacker Sam Szwak leads the defense. Green Oaks reached the Class 3A quarterfinals last season, losing to eventual champion St. James.
Mallien was an assistant coach at Loyola last season. He took the position after moving from Green Bay, Wisc., to Shreveport to be near his son, daughter-in-law and grandson.
With the return of senior quarterback Keith Baker, junior receiver DeColdest Crawford and senior running back Ja’me’s Sanders, the Giants should have no trouble putting points on the board.
In Green Bay, he was a coach, teacher and athletic director at several schools before retiring and heading
Baker, a three-year starter, needs 2,700 yards to reach 10,000 for his career. Crawford is an LSU commit.
If any team can challenge Calvary, it will likely be them. Two-way standout Kedrick Grider, a running back and linebacker, leads the team’s returning starters. Tyrell Gill, a wingback and linebacker, is another player to watch. Homer made a run to the Class 1A quarterfinals last season. With 15 starters back, it won’t be a surprise if the Pelicans enjoy more success this season. Plain Dealing has a new head coach in Christopher Wilson, who replaced James Thurman. Running back Ladavious Scott and two-way lineman Durancyk Newton are among the Lions top returnees. Sophomore running and defensive back Cedarius Johnson is another outstanding athlete to watch.
The Giants also return senior tight end Terrence Isaac Jr. “Green Oaks will be tough, very powerful on offense,” Bossier head coach Michael Concilio said. The Giants lack experience on defense with only two starters returning, including senior linebacker Jaylon Moore, a Memphis commit. Bossier enjoyed its first winning season in seven years last season. The Bearkats were hit hard by graduation. Jason Davis and Decamerion Richardson, first-team All-District running and defensive backs, are gone. Senior Coleman Beeson, who passed for almost 800 yards in the Bearkats’ run-oriented Wing-T offense, returns. Continued on Page 23
Dist. 1-3A Continued He and senior defensive back Avery Williams are among the team’s leaders. Bossier returns 15 other seniors.
“We will need the rest of the upperclassmen to start coming around rather quickly,” Concilio said. “We are staying optimistic.”
Mansfield and North Webster will be looking to improve on 4-7 records. Senior lineman Nick Spencer
leads the Wolverines defense. Senior receiver Adrian Green and offensive lineman Justin Davis are among the returning starters on offense.
North Webster’s defense should be a strength with the return of senior lineman Tyquendric Lane, junior linebacker Jatereon Robinson and senior flex Peyton Haehn.
r m w q + Suggs-coached team,” Benton head coach Reynolds Moore said. “They should be really good on defense this year and that (veer) offense is always so hard to prepare for.”
1-5A OUR PREDICTION 1. Airline 2. Haughton 3. Byrd 4. Captain Shreve T5. Parkway T5. Benton 7. Natchitoches Central 8. Southwood Last year, the District 1-5A race went down to the final week of the regular season.
Benton made the jump from 4A to 5A last season, and Moore believes the Tigers will be better prepared for the competition this season. “We spent a lot of time in 1-4A being the hunted, so now we get to be the hunters,” Moore said. “I believe we have the talent and ability to put ourselves in the conversation this year to win a district championship. “We have a strong core of starters returning with a lot of big-game experience,” Airline head coach Bo Meeks said. “It is always nice to have your starting quarterback returning along with three offensive linemen.
“Alex has had a strong offseason and It won’t be a huge surprise if that hapwe are really excited about the experipens again this season as the chase for ence and leadership he brings. Devin the title looks wide open. has worked really hard and we are looking for him to anchor the receivAirline and Captain Shreve shared the ing corps and provide leadership to an title last season after the Vikings defeated inexperienced group.” the Gators 21-14 in the regular-season finale. Captain Shreve was hit hard by graduation, but the Gators have one With the return of All-Parish Offensive of the top players in the state in junior MVP Alex Garcia for his senior year at receiver Kendrick Law. He has received quarterback, Airline has to be considered scholarship offers from some of the one of the favorites again. nation’s top college programs, including LSU. The Vikings lack experience at receiver but return senior Devin Bilbo, a big-play Senior offensive lineman Ben Dethreat. Running backs Rovelle Young and louche was a second-team All-District Jamall Asberry will be a formidable oneselection last season. The Gators also two punch with an experienced offensive return senior All-District punter Alex line to open holes. Auer. Only three starters return on defense — defensive lineman Devarrick Woods, linebacker Fred Manning and defensive back Tracy Hudson. But all three are among the area’s best.
Despite the loss of quarterback Darrius Grant and 1,000-yard rusher DJ Fleming, Haughton head coach Jason Brotherton expects Shreve to have another explosive offense.
Sophomore Ashton Martin, who started “We learned last year that playing in 1-5A two games last year, will replace Grant. is more difficult in a lot of ways. We think we’ve used that knowledge to prepare ourselves to be in the mix this year. This “Shreve will be loaded on offense,” district is tough top to bottom.” Brotherton said. The Gators have no returning starters on defense.
A veteran line and linebacker corps lead what should be a stout defense.
Haughton, which finished one game behind Airline and Shreve and advanced to the semifinals, was also hit hard by graduation, especially at receiver and running back. Peyton Stovall, a two-year starter at quarterback, has decided not to play to focus on baseball.
“Overall, I think our guys upfront will set the tone for us on both sides,” Moore said. “We pride ourselves in being tough, so having the big guys up front lead the way is exactly what we like to see.”
The Bucs do have experience on defense led by senior linebackers Sean Hardison, Dylan Turner and Jake St. Andre. “The defense will need to be strong early to allow the young offense time to adjust,” Brotherton said.
Parkway has a new head coach in Coy Brotherton, who helped turn around Shreve as offensive coordinator. The Panthers have six starters back on offense and five on defense. The defense, led by three-year starting lineman Trenton Defatta, should be a strength.
Byrd returns six starters on offense and seven on defense. Senior lineman Carson Bruno, a Louisiana Tech commit, leads the latter. “People seem to have forgotten about Byrd, but I’d never count out a Mike
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