As the 2024 season reaches its midway point, Louisiana Christian University (LCU) football has faced a challenging campaign, posting a 1-4 record. However, the team’s offensive firepower has been a bright spot, with several standout performances from players such as Daylon Charles, River Thompson, and EJ Scott. While the offense has impressed, defensive shortcomings have left the Wildcats in search of consistency as they navigate a demanding schedule.
Offensive Standouts: Charles and Thompson Power LCU’s Attack
At the core of LCU’s offensive success has been the dynamic running of senior running back Daylon Charles and the efficient quarterback play of River Thompson. Charles has been a force on the ground, rushing for 504 yards and six touchdowns, averaging an impressive 100.8 yards per game. His explosive 76-yard touchdown run against Wayland Baptist was a highlight, demonstrating his ability to break open a game at any moment. With 531 total rushing yards on the season, Charles has been a workhorse for the Wildcats, consistently providing them with a reliable offensive option.
Thompson, the team’s starting quarterback, has shown steady leadership under center, throwing for 1,183 yards and eight touchdowns while maintaining a solid 55.4% completion rate. His poise has helped the Wildcats keep games competitive, particularly in the close loss to Wayland Baptist (44-49). Thompson’s ability to deliver in high-pressure moments has kept LCU’s offense moving, and his 71-yard touchdown pass to EJ Scott further showcased his playmaking ability.
Scott, LCU’s leading receiver, has also emerged as a key figure, totaling 427 receiving yards and one touchdown. His 85.4 receiving yards per game ranks among the top performers in the team, and he has consistently provided a deep threat that defenses must account for. With an average of 18.57 yards per reception, Scott’s ability to stretch the field has opened up opportunities for Thompson to distribute the ball effectively to other targets, such as Ethan Christman (247 receiving yards, three touchdowns) and Sammy Feaster (161 receiving yards, two touchdowns).
A Balanced Ground Game: Cunningham Brothers Contribute
Complementing Charles in the backfield are brothers Datlan and Taevion Cunningham, who have combined to rush for over 500 yards. Datlan, with 274 rushing yards and two touchdowns, has proven to be a dependable option when called upon. His power running style provides a different dimension to LCU’s offense, and his 43-yard run against Langston was a prime example of his ability to break through defenses.
Taevion has also been a versatile player for LCU, contributing both on the ground (231 rushing yards, three touchdowns) and as a pass-catcher. While not as explosive as Charles, the Cunningham brothers’ consistency in the run game has given the Wildcats a balanced offensive attack, allowing them to keep opposing defenses off-balance.
Defensive Woes: A Season of Struggles
While the offense has shown promise, LCU’s defense has struggled to contain opposing offenses. The Wildcats have allowed 238 points in just five games, giving up an average of 47.6 points per game. This defensive vulnerability has been most evident in blowout losses to St. Thomas (10-56) and Houston Christian (7-70), where LCU’s defense was unable to slow down the opposition.
One of the key issues for the Wildcats has been their inability to stop the run. Opponents have rushed for 1,128 yards against LCU, averaging 225.6 rushing yards per game. While the Wildcats’ defensive front has produced some individual standouts, such as Khalil Brisco (22 total tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks) and Jaden Jones (31 total tackles), they have not been able to generate enough pressure or create significant stops in crucial moments.
Another area of concern has been the Wildcats’ pass defense. LCU’s opponents have thrown for 1,168 yards and 13 touchdowns, and while the secondary has recorded one interception (by Tyren Young), the unit has given up several big plays, including a 94-yard touchdown pass by Wayland Baptist. This combination of a leaky run defense and an inconsistent pass defense has left LCU in catch-up mode in several games.
Special Teams and Miscues
LCU’s special teams have also seen mixed results through the first half of the season. Kicker Levi Hilborn has been solid, converting four of six field goal attempts with a long of 42 yards. His reliability has been a positive aspect of LCU’s overall performance, and his 17 successful extra-point conversions have provided a steady presence in the kicking game.
However, the Wildcats’ return game has been less effective, averaging only 13.68 yards per kick return and 2.67 yards per punt return. These underwhelming numbers have often left LCU’s offense with poor field position, making it difficult for the team to establish momentum early in games.
Turnovers have also plagued LCU’s efforts, with 12 interceptions thrown by their quarterbacks and 10 total fumbles (three lost). These miscues have often halted promising drives and given opponents favorable field position, further compounding the defense’s struggles.
Looking Ahead: Key Improvements Needed
As the Wildcats look to turn their season around in the second half, several areas need immediate improvement. The defense must find a way to limit the big plays and get more stops, especially in the run game. Offensively, while the passing attack has been effective, Thompson must cut down on turnovers to help LCU sustain drives and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The Wildcats’ next game will be a pivotal matchup, and the team’s ability to execute in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams—will be key. If LCU can shore up its defense and continue its offensive momentum, there is hope that the Wildcats can finish the season strong and build on the potential they’ve shown at times throughout the season.
