By BRAD WELBORN, Northwestern State Sports Information

NATCHITOCHES — The margin for Northwestern State’s young football team remains razor-thin.

A second straight matchup against a Top 20 team included a handful of turnovers, penalties and missed chances by the Demons in a 41-14 loss at the hands of No. 15 Lamar on Saturday afternoon at Turpin Stadium. The Cardinals broke open a tight game after halftime.

“We’ve played two top 20 teams in a row and a lot of our young guys found out what championship-level football at this level looks like,” Demons’ coach Blaine McCorkle said. “There are a lot of valuable lessons in that for them. A lot for us to learn as we build this thing.”

Down 3-0 after a 50-yard field goal from Lamar’s Ben Woodard, the Demons were poised to take the lead late in the first quarter after one of the eight chunk plays by the offense. 

A 59-yard catch from Jimmie Duncan set NSU up at the Lamar 5-yard line, but three plays later a 24-yard field goal was blocked.

“We had some missed opportunities today but the biggest might have been on our second drive,” McCorkle said. “Get the ball all the way down inside the five and come away with no points. That’s unacceptable. You’ve got to find a way to come away with points, three at the worst. It’s a whole different feel if we get a score there.”

The defense forced a punt on the ensuing possession to set up the Demons’ lone scoring drive of the first half.

Three straight explosive passing plays got the Demons into scoring position – a 14-yard reception from Duncan, 21-yard completion to Brendan Webb and 13-yard catch-and-run to Amaaz Eugene. The fourth big play of the drive went to Jeremiah James out of the backfield on a wheel route, with the redshirt freshman scampering 40 yard down to the Lamar 1-yard line.

Three plays later, quarterback Abram Johnston, with a little help from his center Caleb Billiot, lunged his way into the end zone to give the Demons a 7-3 lead early in the second.

The Cardinals responded with an eight-play touchdown drive of their own for a 10-7 edge. Lamar padded the lead  just before halftime, moving down the field on a 10-play trip to score with 21 seconds left and take a 17-7 lead into the break.

Lamar scored on five of its final seven possessions, and turned back-to-back turnovers into points, as part of four straight scoring drives to put the game away in the second half. 

A fumble and interception near midfield on consecutive possession set the Cardinals up with short fields which they converted into 10 points.

The Demons hit a handful more chunk plays in the second half including their longest of the year.

True freshman Brendan Webb beat press coverage at the line for a 78-yard touchdown grab on his second trip to the end zone this year,  securing the first 100-yard receiving game for a Demon since Myles Kitt-Denton against Prairie View A&M a year ago.

Webb (126) and Duncan (73), who both finished with career-best receiving days, combined for a pair of 50-plus yard receptions in the game, collecting 199 total receiving yards on six grabs.

“Those are two really good true freshmen receivers that are going to be incredible players here,” McCorkle said. “Didn’t surprise us what they did today, we’ve seen that coming for a while. They stepped up and made some plays and caught all their passes from a redshirt freshman quarterback who was protected by two redshirt freshmen and a sophomore up front.”

McCorkle noted while around the Southland only five freshmen are starting among the other nine teams, on Saturday, the Demons had eight freshmen starting.

Johnston threw for 284 yards, a season best, but the scuttled rushing game managed 23 yards against a stout defensive front.

The Demons travel to McNeese next Saturday. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. in Lake Charles.

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By T. SCOTT BOATRIGHT, Lincoln Parish Journal

LAS VEGAS — In a dramatic and emotionally draining up and down game, on his first attempt ever, Grambling State kicker Josh McCormick booted a 44-yard field goal straight between the uprights with 21 seconds left to lift the G-Men to a 26-24 win over 12^th-ranked Jackson State Saturday at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. 

Grambling moved on top in the third quarter and extended the lead to 23-10 with 12:06 remaining in the contest after quarterback C’zavian Teasett fired a 26-yard scoring strike to Andrew Frazier.

But Jackson State, the No. 1 team in HBCU polls and 12^th in the FCS rankings, scored on the ensuing drive on a 62-yard touchdown pass to cut Grambling’s lead to 23-17 with 9:41 left on the clock

After holding GSU to a three–and-out, Jackson State marched 57 yards on 11 plays to go on top 24-23 on a 1-yard quarterback keeper with 2:15 remaining.

On the ensuing drive, Teasett ran the ball nine yards for a first down at the GSU 42-yard line right at the 2:00 timeout.

After being tackled, Tezsett remained face down and motionless on the field as GSU medical personnel rushed to his aid. Almost immediately after getting to Teasett, those personnel signaled for more help and equipment.

Eventually Teasett was strapped to a backboard and put into an ambulance that had driven out to the middle of the field, and was taken to a nearby hospital.

A statement released by GSU Athletics Sunday afternoon said Teasett was still being medically evaluated in Las Vegas, but was “responsive and in good spirits.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with C’zavian as he continues to recover,” said Grambling State University President Martin Lemelle Jr. in that statement.  “Moments like these remind us that football is more than a game — it’s a brotherhood rooted in courage, care, and community. C’zavian is a remarkable young man whose strength and resolve reflect the heart of this institution. We are all rallying around him and praying for his full recovery.”

Grambling State Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Trayvean Scott expressed gratitude to the GSU sports medicine staff, team doctors, and Las Vegas emergency response personnel for their swift and professional care.

“Their immediate attention and coordinated efforts exemplify the highest standard of care and compassion for our student-athletes,” said Dr. Scott. “C’zavian embodies the spirit and resilience of a true G-Man, and we stand firmly beside him and his family during this time.”

After play finally resumed following Teasett’s injury, running back Byron Eaton Jr. took the next snap for Grambling out of the Wildcat formation and ran for 1 yard.

Backup quarterback A’Myne Darensbourg then moved behind center and ran for 12 yards to reach the Jackson State 48.

Then, on third and 12, Darensbourg hit Barron Myles Jr. to get the ball to the Jackson State 27.

After 10 plays picking up 38 yards and with no timeouts left, Grambling coach Mickey Joseph then opted to let the strong-legged McCormick try his first field goal attempt as a Tiger.

The graduate senior sent the ball right down the middle to put the Tigers on top with 21 seconds remaining.

Jackson State, which lost its starting quarterback to a first-half injury, was unable to threaten after the kickoff.

The G-Men moved to 5-3 overall and 2-2 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference with the win.

Covadis Knighten led Grambling with five catches for 96 yards, including a 59-yard touchdown reception that cut Jackson State’s lead to 14-7 with 1:56 remaining in the first half.

Grambling trimmed Jackson State’s halftime advantage to 14-10 when Theodore Cabellero nailed a 24-yard field goal as the second quarter clock expired. But with the game on the line and facing a longer kick, it was McCormick’s turn, and he delivered.

Contact Scott at tscottboatright@gmail.com

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JOURNAL SPORTS

The McMurry War Hawks showed exactly why they were the preseason pick to win the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference crown Saturday, dominating Centenary’s Gents 52-6 at Atkins Field.

The McMurry (4-3, 3-0) offense exploded for 637 yards of total offense while the defense stifled the Gents (1-5, 1-2). The visiting War Hawks held the Gents to just 289 total yards while pressure was constant on Centenary true freshman quarterback Abram Wardell, resulting in eight sacks.

Wardell, the former Calvary Baptist star, made his first collegiate start as both veteran Centenary quarterbacks were unavailable due to injuries. He threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Theo Dunn that got the Gents within 14-6 late in the first half, but McMurry scored with 21 seconds to go in the second period and added three third-quarter TDs to take command.

Wardell completed 28 of 43 for 229 yards with an interception, returned for a third-period 65-yard score, and the touchdown to Dunn. Sophomore Christopher Jackson, also a Calvary product, was Centenary’s top pass catcher with eight receptions for 113 yards.

The War Hawks’ passing attack was overwhelming, posting 473 yards through the air. McMurry receiver Thomas Chandler had an explosive day, hauling in 11 receptions for 205 yards and a touchdown.

The Gents go on the road to Hendrix next Saturday, then finish the regular season at home Nov. 8 against Austin College.

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The Shreveport Police Department, City of Shreveport, and Shreveport Public Assembly & Recreation (SPAR) recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new East Shreveport Police Substation at Cedar Grove Park.

Funded through the recent bond propositions approved by voters, the new substation represents a major investment in public safety and community engagement. Construction is expected to be completed within six months.

City leaders described the project as more than just a construction milestone — it’s a commitment to the citizens of Shreveport to strengthen neighborhoods and enhance safety across the community.

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The world has lost a beautiful soul. Retired Lt. Colonel Bruce Donovan Anderson, 90, passed away October 23, 2025, Shreveport, LA. Visitation will be held at Rose-Neath Southside Funeral Home on Tuesday October 28, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Funeral will be held at Rose-Neath Southside Funeral Home on Wednesday October 29, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. immediately followed by the interment held at Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery at 11:30 a.m. Brother Randy Harper of Bellaire Baptist Church will be officiating.

Bruce was born February 14, 1935, in Brooten, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Mildred Anderson; wife Lillian Juanita Anderson of 65 years; and grandson Donovan Jeremiah Anderson.

Dad was hard-working and dedicated but always had time for his family. He retired from the Air Force as Lieutenant Colonel with 28 years of service. His service included an accumulation of 17,000 flight hours. This including flying OV-10 in Vietnam, B-25; B-29; KC-97 and KC-135 and many others. Once retired from his military service, his love of flying took him to Continental Airlines, also known as known as United, for 11 years. His flying career includes the Boeing 707; 727; 747 and McDonald Douglas DC-10 and others. He was incredibly devoted to flying and continued to do so after retirement ferrying new Embraer ERJ145 jets from Brazil.

His volunteer work included American Red Cross, US Census Bureau, Barksdale Pharmacy, VA chauffeuring Veterans, member of the Sharks RC Club, and Bossier City Sheriff’s Posse – 20 years.

Dad never liked being the center of attention or boasted upon, but he deserves to have his long years of fatherly love honored. To the family he was known as Papa, Dad, Andy. Unch, and to some, Mr. Brucie/Colonel Brucie. Andy met his beloved wife Nita in 1956 in Shreveport LA, Barksdale AFB. Nita stole his heart with her amazing cooking and beautiful smile.

To know Andy was to know an incredibly devoted husband, father, friend and volunteer. He was always there to lend a hand, teach a valuable lesson, and his bark was worse than his bite. He always had a quick saying of knowledge to share – “it takes more than gas to make a car run”.

Along with being a devoted husband and father, he loved flying his radio-controlled airplanes, an occasional round of golf, and fishing with friends and family. One of his favorite past times was the annual pilgrimage to Brooten MN for Brooten Bonanza Days, which included an abundance of Polka Music and dancing. He loved traveling with his wife but would never use GPS; a paper map would only do. He was a planner, bookkeeper, and kept immaculate records. In his younger years, High School, he would hitchhike to Yellowstone National Park to work earning money for school supplies and clothes.

Dad, we will miss you immensely. You were our “go to” when life got rough. You were always there when we needed clarity and the one we could count on to give advice. Although you were a straight shooter, you always gave us advice without judgement and supported our decisions. Because of you we have a good work ethic and a sound love for our families. Thank you.

Bruce leaves the following to cherish his precious memory: daughters, Annie Brown (Doug) and Patricia (Trisha) Anderson, LA; son, Bruce D. Anderson, Jr (Karen) FL; grandchildren, Stacey Ann Sebesta (Brian), Texas; James Scott Brown (Kim); Lauri Brown Duggan (Mike), Jennifer Brown Hammons (Brian) of LA; Eliot Anderson Chavanne (Samantha) NM; Matthew Bowker, CO; Kyle Moorcones, NC, Samantha Moorcones, FL; great grandchildren Parker Stough (Heather); Lauri Beth Keller (Nick), LA; Emmett Chavanne, Owen Chavanne, NM; McKinzey McCabe, Connor McCabe, TX; Campbell Brown, LA; great-great grandchildren; Parker Webb Stough; Harris Gentry Stough, LA; Maddox Anderson, TX; his beloved puppy of 13 years Bailey; and a host of special nieces, nephews, and friends.

We would like to offer a special thanks to an honorary family member Catherine Paulette Brown. Ms. Paulette gave five years of her life to attending to and loving both Bruce and Nita through their final years. There are not enough words to say how much appreciation the family has for her.

Additionally, thank you for the care given by Dr. Hernandez, Dr. Harris, LaKeisha Warren at Brookdale and members of the Carpenter House.

Honorary Pallbearers will be his grandsons.

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Agnes Feazel Brown went home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 22, 2025 at home just as she wished at age 97. She had been in hospice care for five months. Left to cherish her memory and celebrate her arrival before Jesus and family that have gone before are her daughters, N. Carol Brown, of Shreveport, Donna B. Smith, her son-in-law, Tim Smith, and granddaughter, Olivia Smith, and her son, Ronald W. Brown, partner Julie Jacobus and adopted grandson of love, Glenn Pearson; sister, Doris Rambin of Mansfield, LA; as well as numerous loved nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her beloved adopted family members, Marcia Mounce and James Norris.

Mrs. Brown was born in rural Natchitoches Parish on June 1, 1928, the second of four children to James Forrest Feazel and Ina Pauline Woods Feazel. She is predeceased by her husband of 41 years, Troyce A. Brown; daughter, A. Kay Brown; sister, Margarete Feazel Brown Duncan; brother and sister-in-law, Doug and Shirley Feazel; and brother-in-law, James Rambin.

Mrs. Brown was a member of First Baptist Church of Greenwood for over 60 years, although was unable to attend regularly for most of those years. Later in life, she loved her Sunday School Class and made close friends there.

She was a registered nurse from Northwestern State College’s first nursing class in 1952. She worked at Confederate Memorial Hospital, now known as Ochsner LSU Health and helped move patients from its original facility on Texas Street to its current location on Kings Highway. After the birth of her second daughter, she became a full-time mother.

The family wishes to sincerely thank the kind and loving sitters that have cared for our mother over that past months: Rosa LaRey and Glory Breland for their friendship and care on the long 12-hour night shifts. They cared for her and offered their companionship and love to her. And to Colby (like the cheese) Henderson, who spent eight hours, sometimes 10, five days a week being helpful, cheerful, reading the Bible to Mama, particularly when she could no longer see the words for herself. You ladies represent the best of your profession.

A graveside service will be held at Spring Ridge Cemetery in Sabine Parish on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. led by Brother Joe Bob Alexander.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation be made to Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, P O Box 4196, Monroe, LA 71211.

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Shreveport City Court Judge Brian Barber has been nominated by the White House to serve as United States Marshal for the Western District of Louisiana. The nomination, announced on October. 21, would fill the vacancy left after the term of former Marshal Henry Lee Whitehorn Sr. expired. Barber’s appointment would be for a four-year term, pending confirmation by the U.S. Senate, though no timeline for Senate action has been set.

Judge Barber currently serves in Division B of Shreveport City Court, where he is in his second term, set to conclude December 31, 2026. In addition to his duties in Shreveport, Barber has served as an ad hoc judge in the city courts of Bossier, Minden, and Natchitoches. His legal experience also includes a tenure as an assistant district attorney in Caddo, DeSoto, and Sabine parishes.

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Caddo Parish Schools Superintendent Keith S. Burton spoke at the monthly meeting of the Caddo Retired Teachers Association in Shreveport. He shared updates on the work happening across the district to support students and thanked attendees for their thoughtful questions and perspectives.

Superintendent Burton highlighted the importance of the association’s experience and continued support, noting that it strengthens both schools and the broader community. He emphasized the district’s commitment to ensuring every student has the tools needed to succeed and expressed eagerness to continue partnering with retired educators in this mission.

He also introduced the district’s new logo and motto: “A New Beginning – Caddo Parish Public Schools: Excellence, Every One, Every Day.”

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Statewide data points to growing pressure on homeowners as inflation, insurance costs, and interest rates weigh on budgets.

By Journal Services Staff Writer

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A Year of Decline Turns Toward Caution

Louisiana joined much of the nation in 2024’s relief from housing distress.
Foreclosure filings — including default notices, scheduled auctions, and bank repossessions — fell nationwide by roughly 10% last year to 322,103 total cases. Louisiana tracked similarly, ending 2024 with relatively modest foreclosure activity and a slower pace of repossessions.

But the first three quarters of 2025 tell a different story.

According to ATTOM’s Q3 2025 Foreclosure Market Report, filings across the United States climbed 17% year over year, and Louisiana followed that upward trend. The state recorded an estimated 1 filing for every 3,200 to 4,700 homes during spring and summer months — ranking among the top 10 states for foreclosure activity by April 2025.

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Louisiana’s Structural Challenge: The Longest Foreclosure Timeline in America

One feature sets Louisiana apart from nearly every other state: time.
While the average foreclosure nationally now takes about 760 days, Louisiana’s average timeline in late 2024 and early 2025 stretched beyond 3,000 days — over eight years from initial default to completion.

This extraordinary lag, confirmed by ATTOM and PR Newswire data, stems from the state’s judicial foreclosure process, layered sheriff’s sale requirements, and civil court backlogs.
In practice, that means the true scope of housing distress often hides behind years of pending litigation and unclosed cases.

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Sidebar: How Long Does a Foreclosure Take?

Why It Matters:
Louisiana’s foreclosure process takes four times longer than the national average — and nearly ten times longer than in non-judicial states like Texas. That delay masks the true number of distressed homes and slows market recovery.

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Economic and Regional Drivers

The state’s rising foreclosure indicators reflect broader economic strain:

• High insurance premiums — especially for homeowners in southern and coastal parishes — continue to erode affordability.

• Inflation and wage stagnation have squeezed monthly budgets, particularly for households that refinanced in the low-rate era and now face higher variable expenses.

• Job market softening in sectors tied to energy, education, and retail is contributing to late mortgage payments.

• Property-tax delinquencies and HOA assessment foreclosures have quietly increased since mid-2024.

In Northwest and Central Louisiana, filings remain lower than in metro Baton Rouge and New Orleans, but sheriff’s offices in Caddo, Rapides, and East Baton Rouge Parishes each reported consistent listings for civil sales through 2025.

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A Changing Legal Landscape

Louisiana’s foreclosure and tax-sale systems underwent several updates in 2024:

• Tax Sale Reform: Competitive bidding for delinquent tax certificates now starts at 1% interest, but market bidding can reduce that rate, lowering investor appetite and delaying sales.

• HOA Foreclosures: Community associations maintain lien authority, but mortgage-priority issues continue to generate litigation.

• Judicial and Sheriff’s Oversight: Each foreclosure or property seizure typically involves both civil courts and parish sheriffs — a process slower but more transparent than non-judicial states.

These procedures act as a brake on rapid market correction — protecting some homeowners from swift loss, while preventing faster clearing of distressed inventory.

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The Numbers Behind the Trend

(Sources: ATTOM, Safeguard Properties, PR Newswire, CoreLogic, Mortgage Bankers Association)

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Why It Matters

Foreclosure activity remains well below Great Recession levels, but the direction is unmistakably upward.
Louisiana’s backlog means new filings could take years to fully surface, but the increase in starts and default notices is a warning sign.

For policymakers, the focus may soon shift toward streamlining legal procedures, expanding housing-counseling access, and addressing insurance affordability, which increasingly drives early-stage delinquency.

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What Comes Next

Louisiana’s housing market is not in crisis — but its warning lights are blinking.
A state that benefits from stable property values and conservative lending standards now faces the slow-motion challenge of affordability, delayed legal resolution, and economic pressure that’s spreading beyond urban centers.

If national trends continue, 2025 may mark the beginning of a long, uneven correction rather than a sudden downturn.

The coming year will test whether Louisiana can modernize its foreclosure process before today’s slow-moving distress becomes tomorrow’s housing backlog.

Continue your article here…

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Governor Jeff Landry issued the following update on Oct. 23 regarding the federal government shutdown and SNAP benefits in Louisiana.

“Notifications from LDH have been sent out stating that, because of Democrat Leader Schumer’s Shutdown, SNAP beneficiaries may run out of funds by November 1. I have been in discussions with other governors across the nation, as well as with our legislative leadership. I am making it a top priority to ensure that seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children who rely on food stamps do not go hungry in Louisiana. Democrats’ political games need to end,” said Governor Landry.

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A storied military tradition that dates back hundreds of years will unfold at 10 a.m. Nov. 7 at the Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) Billy Montgomery Gymnasium when District 5 Louisiana State Representative Dennis Bamburg, Bossier Schools and BPCC host a Veterans Tattoo Ceremony. The event is free and everyone is invited to attend.

What is a Military Tattoo? Its origins began in the 17th century when the Dutch Army sent drummers into towns to inform soldiers it was time to return to the barracks. The process was known as “Doe Den Tap Toe,” old Dutch for “turn off the taps.” However, the troops only heard “Tap Toe,” which in time was shortened to “Tattoo.” The Tattoo has since evolved into an elaborate patriotic show, and this year’s Veterans Tattoo Ceremony promises to be nothing short of that.

As we count down to America’s 250th birthday, this extravagant display of patriotism will include performances by students throughout Bossier Schools in the Talented Arts Program, Band, Drum Corps and Air Force Junior ROTC. There will also be a simulated enlistment ceremony, final roll call, Taps and more. A special guest will also be in attendance from the Louisiana Department of Veteran Affairs in recognition of their commitment to serve over 212-thousand veterans who call Louisiana home, as well as other state and local dignitaries.

On behalf of Rep. Bamburg, Bossier Schools Superintendent Jason Rowland and Bossier Parish Community College Chancellor Dr. Rick Bateman, it is our hope the public will pause on this day to reflect upon our nation’s past and honor the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans.

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It was the first day of school at Benton High and the algebra teacher was walking from his car to the school building. It was one of those hot, sticky August mornings that makes you sweat before you even close the car door.

As he walked through the wall of humidity, his senses were filled with some sounds and smells that were all too familiar. The whistles of a football practice. Shoulder pads and helmets colliding. The scent of the dew-covered grass mixed with sweat. He could have closed his eyes and still known exactly what was going on over his left shoulder.

But as he continued his walk to school, he knew he would have to look, if only for a moment. The investment of 23 years of his life was too strong to ignore.

But what he didn’t know was how it would hit him when he did look over. This was either going to go one way or the other.

Up until that point, it had all been window dressing. Now, football season was here. Now, it was for real.

With that backdrop, Reynolds Moore took that one look and let his emotion take it from there.

“I thought about it for a minute and took it all in,” Moore says, “and then I kept walking. That’s when I realized I was going to be fine.”

If there is a universal truth about coaching, it’s that it gets in your blood like few other jobs. No real explanation for it … it just does.

Wins are great, losses are terrible, outside influences never go away and the pay doesn’t exactly line up with the aggravation. It may seem like there’s an easy off ramp from being a coach; instead, it’s anything but.

This is the first year for Moore to be out of coaching. This is the second year out for Jason Brotherton, who coached at Haughton for 26 years before becoming assistant principal. Mike Greene coached at four schools over 28 years and has twice stepped away from the job, coaching until the end of the ’23 season.

“I don’t know if you ever totally get away from it,” Greene says. “I think you always miss it. Sometimes when I’m driving home, I think about how I could be at practice right now.”

“Everyone wonders what that first practice or first game will be like when you’re not coaching anymore,” Brotherton says. “There’s a lot of things I miss about coaching, but then there’s a long list of things I don’t miss about coaching also.”

None of the three went cold turkey from being on a high school campus and went off to sell life insurance. All three report to work every day at the same place where they lined the fields and wore those dreadful Bike coaching shorts.

They may not be in the deep end of the pool anymore, but they can always dip their toes in the water whenever they feel the urge.

Or not.

“I try to give (new) coach (Stephen) Dennis and his staff their space,” Moore says. “I want to give them a chance to build their own program their way and not feel like I’m looking over their shoulder. And look, Coach Dennis has said I’m welcome any time. I may go to more (games) next year and I may go to Senior Night for the guys I coached last year.”

“For me, it hasn’t been that bad,” Brotherton says. “I still know those kids (on the team) because I coached most of them. I’m at every game. I usually know the play we are about the run beforehand because I don’t think we have changed the signs since I coached. It’s just a little bit of a different role.”

To a man, the coaches will tell you that the thing they miss the most is the relationship with the players. “That’s the hardest thing,” Greene says. “You’re still around them (at school) but it’s not the same.”

Meanwhile, there are other adjustments to make. “You’d think going back to teaching full time would be like riding a bike,” Moore says. “I thought I’d be fine. But it took me several weeks to get back into the rhythm and the pacing of the school day in a classroom.”

But forget about the idea of a former coach sitting in the stands on a Friday night and watching the game like every other spectator.

“I can’t,” Greene says. “It’s too hard for me.”

Contact JJ at johnjamesmarshall@yahoo.com

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By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

NATCHITOCHES — Kenny Darby had a sick night.

Despite barfing on the sideline, Airline’s sensational senior receiver turned in a rather sick performance, scoring five touchdowns, four at tailback and another on an 85-yard kickoff return, and had career-high totals of 175 rushing yards and 15 carries as the Vikings posted a tough 41-21 District 1-5A triumph over Natchitoches Central at Turpin Stadium.

Darby, who is committed to LSU, scored on runs of 5, 62, 1 and 37 yards, and an 85-yard kickoff return. He scored four first-half TDs to carry Airline to a 27-7 advantage, then broke four tackles with just under five minutes left on the 37-yarder that clinched the victory.

“Credit coach (Justin) Scogin and how he’s found different ways to get him the football,” said NCHS coach Brad Laird, a longtime college defensive coordinator. “The more touches he gets, the more dynamic he is. He made big plays to put them over the top. There’s a reason he’s going to LSU.”

Scogin concurred.

“He’s a generational-type talent. When it goes bad, you just get him the ball and he makes plays. He was struggling in the first half, he was sick and throwing up. He was weak, but he’s always ready to make plays.”

Darby admitted to feeling puny as game time approached, then went out and looked like Michael Jordan in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, with a fever.

“I knew I could play, but I knew it was going to be tough. Beginning of the game, I was feeling pretty weak, threw up, but I scored three in the first quarter, and got two more. So it was pretty fun,” said Darby.

“It was a good game. It was my highest scoring game, but it wasn’t one of my best games. I can definitely do better.”

Probably not the case for Kang Noh, a smallish senior linebacker who had a pretty extraordinary last 36 hours. On Wednesday, thanks to credentials including a 4.0 GPA and a 33 ACT, he was named Airline’s Student of the Year. Thursday night, for all of Darby’s dynamics, Noh provided the game-breaking moment.

“He’s not the most athletic guy you’ll see,” said Darby, grinning at his teammate, “but he can make a play, and he did it tonight.”

NCHS scrapped back into contention after halftime, mostly behind Kelton Howard’s 223 rushing yards. Down 33-21 late in the third period, the Chiefs pounded downfield, but the drive’s 11^th play was unlucky for the home team.

On first down from Airline’s 11, poised to make it a one-score game, NCHS ran an inside flanker screen that looked like a perfect call. Then Noh said no.

“Over the summer I was known for having the worst hands on the team, but not this time. It felt like a dream,” he said. “I saw the guard pass set, so I dropped back, but then he came up, tried to hit me and ran past me, so I’m thinking, ‘he can’t do that.’

“I was wondering where the quarterback was going, and he threw it up. My heart dropped a little bit, I got my hands up there and caught it. I started running and was thinking, ‘let’s not fumble this football.’ It was a heck of a moment.

“It’s been a heck of a week,” said Noh, who ran the interception almost to midfield. Five minutes later, Darby sealed the deal with his last TD.

Scogin thought the much-maligned Vikings defense had a heck of a night.

“Natchitoches Central has a phenomenal team on offense and we held them about 20 points below what they’ve been scoring on everybody else,” he said.

It was the second consecutive hard-fought win for the Vikings (5-3, 3-3) after three league losses by a combined 17 points. The Chiefs (4-4, 2-4) lost for the first time in four weeks.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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JOURNAL SPORTS

John Simon spent the last few years on the Calvary sideline on many game nights, watching his two sons star for the Cavaliers.

Tonight he’s on the other sideline, trying to beat them.

Simon, a longtime college assistant, is in his first season as head coach at Huntington. The Class 5A Raiders visit the Cavaliers, No. 4 in the Class 2A state top 10, in an interesting non-district contest.

“Coach Simon, that’s my guy,” said Calvary junior cornerback, receiver and playmaker Braylun Huglon. “He helped me out the last couple of years. It’s gonna be fun going against him.”

In the prime District 1-5A contest tonight, Captain Shreve tries to get its mojo back against undefeated Parkway.

The Gators’ defense has been shredded the last two weeks, giving up scores on 18 consecutive series against Evangel and Destrehan, both in the Class 5A Top 10.

Parkway ran out to a 30-7 lead over Huntington last week and cruised to a 30-19 victory.

Thursday night, Northwood roared to a 41-0 first-half lead as Kyran Johnson ran for three touchdowns, and Nate Cervantes threw for two and ran for another. The Falcons (7-1, 4-1) shackled District 1-4A foe Southwood (3-4, 1-4).

Jonesboro-Hodge blanked winless Plain Dealing in the night’s other game.

The Week 8 schedule involving teams from Caddo and Bossier parishes:

 

THURSDAY’S SCORE

District 1-5A

Airline 41, Natchitoches Central 21

 

District 1-4A

Northwood 47, Southwood 6

 

District 1-1A

Jonesboro-Hodge 40, Plain Dealing 0

 

TONIGHT’S GAMES

District 1-5A

Benton (2-5, 1-4) at Byrd (1-6, 0-5), Lee Hedges Stadium

Captain Shreve (4-3, 4-1) at Parkway (7-0, 5-0)

Haughton (1-6, 1-5) at Evangel (6-1, 6-0)

 

Non-district

Huntington (3-4) at Calvary (6-1)

 

District 1-4A

Loyola (7-0, 4-0) at Booker T. Washington (4-3, 1-3)

Bossier (3-4, 1-3) at Minden (3-4, 2-2)

North DeSoto (7-0, 4-0) at Woodlawn (2-5, 0-4), Independence Stadium

 

District 1-2A

North Caddo (1-6, 1-2) at Green Oaks (1-6, 0-3), Jerry Burton Stadium

Magnolia School of Excellence (0-6, 0-3) at Homer (2-5, 1-2)

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By RON HIGGINS, Journal Sports

BATON ROUGE – A member of the Texas A&M media contingent tried earlier this week to sugarcoat a question for Aggies’ second-year head football coach Mike Elko.

“A&M has had a tough time beating LSU on the road since it has been in the SEC,” the questioner said.  “I’m just curious…”

“By tough time, you mean we’ve never done it,” Elko said with wry acknowledgment.

Indeed, heading into Saturday night’s 6:45 SEC game in Tiger Stadium between the No. 3 Aggies (7-0 overall, 4-0 SEC) and No. 20 LSU (5-2, 2-2 SEC), A&M has lost six straight times in Baton Rouge since joining the league in 2012. 

Starting with a Tiger Stadium win over A&M and Heisman Trophy-winning QB Johnny Manziel in 2013, LSU has won in 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023.

As A&M’s defensive coordinator, Elko was part of the Aggies’ BR losses in 2021 (27-24) and 2019 (50-7) when Tigers’ quarterback Joe Burrow revealed his “Burreaux” jersey, and then threw for 352 yards and three TDs on LSU’s Senior Night.

“When you saw some of the early games (vs. LSU after A&M joined the SEC),” Elko said, “it was always like `OK, this is what the SEC looks like.’

“For a large period of time, we didn’t go down there physically and stand up to the challenge. My first experience playing there was against the 2019 (national championship) team. That wasn’t a lot of fun, but that was historically one of the best teams in college football history.

“When we went down there in ’21, it was obviously a much more competitive game from a physical standpoint. And I think that’s the gap that we’ve tried to close as a program.”

In Elko’s first season as A&M’s head coach last year, the then-No. 14-ranked Aggies outscored then-No. 8 LSU 31-7 in the second half for a 38-21 victory in College Station.

A&M dominated line play on both sides of the ball, outrushing LSU 242 yards to 24, when then-freshman quarterback Marcel Reed came off the bench to produce 132 yards, including 62 rushing yards and three TDs.

Which is why considering the way this season has transpired with the Aggies sporting one of the best offensive lines in college football and LSU one of the worst, it’s puzzling that A&M is just a 2-½ point favorite.

The Tigers, on a two-game losing streak, have a predictable, plodding offense ranked 81^st in total offense (366.6 ypg) and 85^th in scoring offense (25.6 ppg).

LSU fourth-year head coach Brian Kelly and offensive coordinator Joe Sloan’s idea has reduced the playbook, hoping to find a rhythm.

“We needed to shorten this inventory and be better at the things that have been highly efficient for us,” Kelly said. “So, we went into that process about three weeks ago through the bye week, and I think it’s proved to be effective for us.”

But not good enough to mask LSU’s continued red zone failures. Kelly also said he’s not stepping into a play-caller role.

“Play calling is an art and a science,” Kelly said. “If you start getting involved in that too much, it’s not the best thing. Now, I can veto things, and I do have suggestions, and I’m involved in pregame planning. Those are things that I’ll continue. From my perspective, that’s the best place for me.”

As good as A&M’s defense has been pressuring quarterbacks – the Aggies rank sixth nationally in sacks with 3.6 per game and have 12 players with 0.5-plus sacks this season – they are susceptible to giving up long plays.

Last Saturday, A&M held off Arkansas 45-42 in a wild road win in Fayetteville. The Aggies won despite their defense allowing 19 “big” plays, including nine pass plays of 15 or more yards and 10 run plays of 10 yards or more.

That’s because, unlike LSU, the Hogs have a dual-threat QB Tayllen Green, wh had 342 total offense yards and five TDs (three pass, two runs).

The biggest reason A&M was able to survive was that Reed completed 23-of-32 passes (a career-best 71.5 percent) for 280 yards and three scores. He added 55 rushing yards for 335 total offense yards.

“This year has been a lot easier just knowing I’m the guy and it’s going to be on me to lead this team,” Reed said. “I’ve got to do everything in my power to do it the best way possible.”

Last season, Reed said LSU’s defense “never adjusted” when he faked handoffs and got nice gains on nifty RPO keepers.

“The issue was we didn’t trust our eyes,” LSU defensive tackle Ahmad Breaux said. “I feel like this time around, we have guys who trust their eyes and their ability more. I think we’ll get the job done.”

Kelly said late Thursday afternoon that starting left offensive tackle Tyree Adams may be out for the rest of the season after undergoing tightrope ankle surgery on Tuesday.

True freshman Carius Curne will replace Adams.

Also, starting inside linebacker Whit Weeks (bone bruise on foot/ankle) is listed as doubtful while starting defensive tackle Bernard Gooden (bruised collarbone) has been ungraded to probable.

Whoever lines up for the Tigers will need to be prepared to play their most physical game of the season.

“We got to go hit people in the mouth and be much more physical,” Kelly said. “We’ve got to play this game with a different demeanor and a different mindset.”

 

GO FIGURE

1: Sack allowed by Texas A&M’s starting offensive line this season

6: Straight games for Texas A&M with 400 total offense yards

13: Catches in the last two games by LSU tight end Trey’Dez Green

20-1: LSU’s home night game record under Brian Kelly

24: Sacks by Texas A&M in its last four games

38: Passes defended (eight interceptions, 30 pass breakups) by LSU, first in the SEC

Contact Ron at ronhigginsmedia@gmail.com

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By BRAD WELBORN, Northwestern State Sports Information

NATCHITOCHES — A week ago, Northwestern State got a firsthand look at what championship-caliber football feels like. The Demons hope that experience becomes the foundation for growth as they prepare for another formidable test in Southland Conference play.

The Demons (1-6, 0-3 SLC) welcome No. 15 Lamar (6-1, 3-0) to Turpin Stadium on Saturday, facing a Cardinals team that has thrived in close, physical contests. It marks the first time since 2022 that Northwestern faces ranked opponents in consecutive weeks, after taking on No. 22 Southeastern a week ago.

Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. but it is possible the game time may be adjusted today if anticipated weather conditions dictate a change. If so, officials will update the NSUDemons.com website and NSU social media platforms today.

The contest can be seen on ESPN+ with a Demon Sports Network broadcast available on 100.7 FM KZBL in Natchitoches, along with Baldridge-Dumas stations in Leesville, Many and Winnfield.

Last week’s 49-0 loss, according to running back Myion Hicks, offers more than just lessons — it provides a template for what success looks like.

“The best thing we can take away from it is what playing at a high level at this level looks like,” Hicks said. “That’s going to be a really successful team down the line, so I think we can take those lessons of the physicality, the execution, the teamwork that they play with and apply it down the road.”

Those lessons will be put to the test this week against a Lamar team that has mastered the art of winning close games. Five of the Cardinals’ six victories have been decided in the final minutes, with an average margin of victory less than a touchdown.

“When you see that they’ve won all of those close games and last-minute wins, that tells me two things,” Demons’ coach Blaine McCorkle said. “They’ve got a good football team to be in position to win games late, and they’ve got unbelievable character and culture to do it time and time again. That’s a team that believes in each other and their staff — and that’s what happens.”

While Northwestern continues to develop its young core, there were encouraging flashes in last week’s setback.

Freshman cornerback Rahmaan Rinkin, making his first career start, tied for the team lead with six tackles and added a pass breakup. True freshman running back Trevor Allen Jr. and redshirt freshman Jeremiah James combined for 64 total yards of offense on 13 touches, offering a glimpse into the future of the Demons’ backfield.

James’ highlight moment — a 34-yard catch-and-run that set NSU up in the red zone — was part of a late-game surge that showed the offense’s potential when things click.

“Rahmaan did a great job stepping in at corner due to an injury, and he’ll be there again this week,” McCorkle said. “He’s only going to get better as he goes. J.J. and Trevor are really young backs, but there was enough on film from last week that people can see those two guys are going to be really good.

“Once our offense grows around them and they have more opportunities, they’ll get better with every touch. It gives you a lot of confidence for where we’re going in the future.”

For veterans like Hicks, leadership now means helping those young players translate raw ability into steady performance.

“Those guys are very talented and capable, so it’s really just a mindset thing,” Hicks said. “Just reminding them of what makes them feel comfortable and what helps them play free and fast. They know their assignments and how to execute — it’s just helping them slow the game down mentally once they’re out there.”

That discipline will be tested on both sides of the ball, but namely against a Lamar offense built on power and patience. The Cardinals have rushed for more than 150 yards in a game three times this season — including 252 against Texas Southern — and lean heavily on a physical offensive line to control tempo.

“Offensively, they do what everybody in America would love to do,” McCorkle said. “They line up in 11 personnel and beat you up. They’re big and physical up front, and their offensive line can take over a game at any time.

“Our front seven is going to have to be ready to go because it’s going to be a physical fist fight in the box this week.”

Contact Brad at welbornb@nsula.edu

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By T. SCOTT BOATRIGHT, Lincoln Parish Journal

LAS VEGAS — To say the Grambling State football season hasn’t gone the way the Tigers hoped would likely be an understatement.

But at 4-2 overall and 1-2 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference’s West Division, the Tigers still have half a season left to play. 

Even if a shot at earning a berth in the SWAC championship game is highly unlikely at this point, the G-Men relish the chance to play spoiler.

They will get that chance this weekend as they face off against the No. 1 team in HBCU football, Jackson State, in a game set for a 5 p.m. CT kickoff on Saturday at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. 

Jackson State stands at 5-1 overall and 3-0 in the SWAC East Division with its lone loss of the season coming by the score of 38-20 at Southern Mississippi on Sept. 6.

Grambling defeated Jackson State 41-20 last season, and GSU coach Mickey Joseph knows his G-Men will be facing a team looking for revenge despite having gone on to win the National Black College Championship last season.

And he knows what a strong performance can do for his football team.

“Anytime you can, you can play a team of this magnitude, you know, a really good football team and you can go and

throw blows with them, I think you got to be excited for that opportunity that we that we’re getting, but it’s a lot in a game of this magnitude,” Joseph said.

“We played Ohio State, the number one team in the country, and now we play the number one HBCU team. It’s the games like this you look forward to when you come to Grambling. The kids understand who we’re about to play. They read all this stuff. You try to tell them, ‘Don’t read everything,’ but they do read everything. How many times do you get the opportunity, you know, in life or or in football, or any sport, to play two number one teams? 

Joseph also knows the Tigers will almost be facing two opponents in this game — Jackson State and all the extras surrounding playing the game at the NFL stadium in Las Vegas.

“Just getting the boys ready, mentally to prepare for the travel, you know, leaving on Thursday, is a challenge,” Joseph said. “We’re skipping two time zones, so we have to make sure that they listen to what we’re telling them, what the medical staff’s telling them. 

“It’s gonna be more off the field things and then on the field, we’re playing a very good Jackson State team, a very well-coached football team. There are a lot of things mentally that we have to overcome going out there. But these kids, they’ve been locked in for the most part. So, we got to really get them locked in this week.”

Joseph said getting his team locked on ball security will also be a key after watching his G-Men give up three fumbles in last week’s 20-16 win at Arkansas-Pine Bluff. 

“We got to understand that we’ve got to hold on to the ball securely. We have said that over and over again. So we’re going to continue working at this and try to cut it out this week,” he said. “And you know, what’s a better week to cut out the bad habits than against the number one team in HBCU football?”

Contact Scott at tscottboatright@gmail.com

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JOURNAL SPORTS

Riding the momentum of its first win this fall, the Centenary football team is back home on Saturday as the Gents will face the conference-leading McMurry War Hawks in a Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference game set for 5 o’clock at Atkins Field.

The Gents (1-4, 1-1 SCAC) recorded a 23-20 overtime victory over the Lyon College Scots in a SCAC game last Saturday in Batesville, Ark., while the War Hawks (3-3, 2-0 SCAC) defeated Austin College 31-13 last weekend in Sherman, Texas. 

McMurry is tied for the conference lead with Texas Lutheran.

“We’re fully focused on the challenge ahead against a talented and well-coached McMurry team,” said Centenary head coach Byron Dawson.

“Our players must be mentally sharp and perform at a high level for four quarters. We’re counting on the Gent faithful to show up and show out this Saturday at 5 p.m.”

The Gents are averaging 417.8 yards of total offense per game – 278.8 passing and 139.0 rushing and average 22.4 points per game.

Centenary’s quarterback situation is a question mark. Regular starter Vance Feuerbacher did not play last week. Senior Zin’Tavious

Smith got the start but departed in the fourth quarter in the middle of a series and true freshman Abram Wardell from Calvary Baptist Academy finished the game.

Feuerbacher has completed 101 of 156 for 1,112 yards with 9 touchdowns and just 2 interceptions. Freshman receiver Theo Dunn is the top target with 28 catches for 464 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Senior Obadiah Butler heads the season rushing chart with 32 attempts for 393 yards and three scores.

Top tackler for the Gents is freshman defensive back T.J. Ranson with 37 total (20 solo).

The Gents’ defense has registered 31 tackles for loss, nine sacks, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles.

McMurry defeated the Gents 49-12 in Abilene, Texas in the regular-season finale last season. The War Hawks also beat the Gents in Shreveport earlier in the season, 28-10.

Live stats and live video are available for the game at gocentenary.com

Due to the possibility of a rainy game day on Saturday, umbrellas will be allowed but tents are not allowed inside the stadium or in the seating areas.

A new policy implemented will require fans to pay to attend Centenary home athletic events and tickets can only be purchased online, at

https://fan.hudl.com/usa/la/shreveport/organization/69826/centenary-college-of/tickets

No cash sales will be available. Centenary students, faculty & staff are allowed into every home event free with a valid Centenary ID.

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Caddo Parish Youth Leadership Alliance held its second meeting on Oct. 22, featuring a full agenda. Presentations were given by Caddo Parish Animal Services & Mosquito Control and Caddo Parish Juvenile Services, providing students with an inside look at their departments. Commission President Stormy Gage-Watts joined the meeting to introduce new, engaging community service projects.
The group also elected officers for the 2025–2026 session. Congratulations to Michael Hicks, Chairperson; Taylor Harris, Vice Chairperson; and Phillip Meaux, Secretary, on their new roles!

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Services celebrating the life of Danny Fogger, 70, will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and a memorial service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana. A grave site memorial will be held at a later date with family only.

Danny was born on April 6, 1955, and went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Danny retired from the Shreveport Police Department as a Lieutenant Homicide Detective, then later retired as the Executive Director of Arts and Entertainment of the Strand Theater. A lifelong LSU Tigers fan, Danny bled purple and gold. He relished every opportunity to attend games and share that passion with his family. Danny’s most cherished accomplishment was the pride he took in being a beloved Husband, Dad, Pawpaw, Friend, and Worshiper of Christ.

Danny often said that marrying Leslie Fogger was “the best decision I ever made.” He always bragged that “driving Mrs. Leslie” or “cooking for Mrs. Leslie” was one of his favorite things to do. There was no denying his commitment and devotion to Leslie, his wife. He called her “Blueyes” throughout their 28 years together, and their love was evident to everyone.

Danny loved his “miracle daughter,” Lauren Fogger. She called him “the other half of my heart.” From infancy to adulthood, there are many cherished memories between Lauren and her Daddy. Danny was proud of her and the relationship they shared together.

Danny also took great pride in those he met later on in life, which included his three other children and his six grandchildren. Danny seldom missed a moment that mattered. Whether it was a little league game, an awards ceremony, or a graduation, you could always count on him to be there front and center, cheering the loudest. “Showing up and showing out” wasn’t just something he did; it was who he was. And it’s how he will forever be remembered.

More than anything, Danny embodied the true meaning of family. He led with kindness, compassion, and quiet strength. He made sure every child and grandchild knew what it meant to love fully, live generously, and treat others with respect. Danny leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. While we grieve his loss, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, pride, and immeasurable heart. He showed us what it means to be there for one another, and that’s a lesson we will carry forward, always.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Jewell Ayres Fogger, and his grandparents, Reverend and Mrs. R.C. Ayres. Left to cherish his memory is wife, Leslie Leath Fogger; sister, Judi Fogger Farmer and husband, Eddie; daughters, Lauren Danielle Fogger and her mother, Betty Fogger, Kelli Todd, and Kristi Elizabeth O’Dell and husband, Brian, and son, Scott Dickerson and wife, Stacy; grandsons, Blake Dickerson, Kaiden and Kody O’Dell, and Christian Todd; and granddaughters, Maddy Salsbury and Kendal O’Dell; special family members, husband, John and Lori Austin; and special brothers-in-law, Mark Leath and wife, Marsha and David Leath and wife, Jill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Volunteers for Youth Justice at https://vyjla.org or 900 Jordan Street, Shreveport, Louisiana, 71101.

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MEMORIAL SERVICE
Saturday, October 25, 2025
1:00 P.M.
Baptist Temple Baptist Church
5024 Greenwood Road, Shreveport, Louisiana

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