Demons Look to be a “Darkhorse” in the Southland Conference

Demons Look to be a “Darkhorse” in the Southland Conference

By: Dave Parks, Intern at Louisiana Gridiron Football

Coming off a successful 6-6 season with many close games, head coach Jay Thomas and his Northwestern State Demons look to make a lot of noise in the Southland Conference this year. Last year’s big win over Louisiana Tech brought much excitement to the program, which the Demons hope will lead to a big year. The schedule this year has many exciting games with a big one against Mississippi State. The Demons will also play in state schools UL Lafayette, McNeese, and Nicholls.

The offense loses a few starters, but has some intriguing replacements with great potential. The Demons have exciting options at quarterback, starting with Vanderbilt transfer Steven Rivers. Many people know more about his famous brother, San Diego QB Phillip Rivers, but Stephen has a 6’7” frame, strong arm, and the raw ability to succeed. He will face tough competition from Sophomore J.D. Almond and transfer Joel Blumenthal for the starting spot.

The demons will have a great 1-2 punch at running back with De’Mard Llorens and Daniel Taylor Jr. coming back. Llorens will be the power back and Taylor will bring his blazing speed and ability to make people miss.

The receiving core looks very strong with last year’s two leading WRs, Preseason All-Americans Ed Eagan and Shakeir Ryan, coming back. The WR group consists of several returning playmakers who could also make an impact. Do-everything tight end, Zach White is back along with big sophomore Chase Hawthorne backing him up.

On the offensive line the Demons lost two starters, but having a starting five of Thomas Little, Terrance Boyd, Korliss Johnson, Pace Murphy and transfer Delryn Wilson, gives the Demons the makings of a solid line.

New Defensive Coordinator Daryl Daye brings a similar scheme which fits the Demon’s personal. The defensive line has the making of a strong rotation. Defensive end Leroy Armstrong comes back after having nine tackles for loss last year. Jemarcus Marshall, Dannie Harmon, Diontre Thomas from ULM, Darion Baptiste from ULL, LaAllen Clark all could see time at DE. At tackle, Garron Featherson, Andrew Bluiett, Isaiah Wheeler, along with a few other talented freshman should see the field.

The linebacker core will likely have Paxton Cook manning the middle, with Jaevon Walton and Lynn Clarks on the outside.

The secondary for the Demons will be led by Free Safety Adam Jones. At Strong Safety Chase Collins returns and looks to build on last year good season. The cornerbacks will be headlined by Sylvester Grimble and JUCO Transfer Ralphael Green.

Punter Andy Wickman and kicker Chris Moore both will be back, with Ed Eagan returns as the primary return man.

Coach Thomas feels confident and recently told NSUDemons.com that, “We feel like we have the team that can get it done, but it will have to come together.” He also added, “A lot of that happens in camp, so hopefully we can pull that together really quick with some of the new faces, and maybe be that dark horse in the end.