JOURNAL SPORTS
Local high school football coaches have shared their thoughts looking back at the 2025 season, and looking ahead. Not everything that happens is easy.
That’s today’s primary question. One more edition Wednesday wraps up the Shreveport-Bossier Journal Coaches’ Roundtable until next season.
What tough moments or times stick with you from this season?
JUSTIN SCOGIN, Airline: “The three-game losing streak was tough to take, especially with how successful we had been previously (the Vikings’ 14-game District 1-5A winning streak was ended Sept. 28 at Evangel, 51-49; see the game story in this edition) but our kids fought and battled and won the last four going into the playoffs. That says a lot about a group when they are able to rebound like these guys did.”
GARY SMITH, Bossier: “The toughest moment was the last play of our BTW game (a 42-41 loss Sept. 26 in the District 1-4A opener for both teams). A great game that they came out on top in, but it was tough to lose that one.”
GARY COOPER, Booker T. Washington: “The toughest moment was Vontravious Moore going down in the Istrouma (playoff) game. He always gave us everything he had on the field. He limped off and I expected him to be back on the field, but he couldn’t go.
“He did all he could on the sideline to try and play until he came to me, eyes full of tears, and said, ‘Coach I’m sorry, I can’t go.’”
JERRY BYRD, Plain Dealing: “The worst moment came at the end of the game against Glenbrook. There were late hits and unsportsmanlike behavior on both sides. It started to feel like the officials and coaches were losing control of the game so I told my players to get off the field and go get on the bus.
“The only other worst moment is when the final clock runs out, you visit with your team one last time after a game, and you walk off that field for the final time. Depression sets in.”
MATTHEW SEWELL, Haughton: “We had too many tough moments to pick one. We had the lead or were within two points of the lead in the second half in six of our eight losses this season. We were close a lot but not close enough. Hopefully we can fix that this offseason and start winning those close games.”
STACY BALLEW, Byrd: “We had a bunch of tough moments. When you have eight losses, there’s no shortage.”
COY BROTHERTON, Parkway: “It has to be the loss to Ouachita. Losing by less than a TD (28-22 in the state quarterfinals at home Nov. 28) and then seeing them win it all. It hurt that night but it still bites at us knowing we were so close to beating the eventual state champion.”
What 2025 seniors had breakout seasons?
SCOGIN, Airline: “I wouldn’t really say ‘breakout’ because he’s been good for so long but Braylyn Jackson really solidified himself as one of the best I’ve coached. He’s not flashy but he will knock you into next week.
“Also Jeremiah Epps — they’re both three-year starters and we wouldn’t be where we are without those guys.”
What about a player to watch next season, based on his play in 2025?
SCOGIN, Airline: “On our offensive line, Daylen Carmouche really had a great season at left tackle. He got better every week and plays with a mean streak. I am expecting big things out of him next season.”