NORTHWEST HIGH RAIDERS

Photographs by Freddie Herpin

2022 Football Outlook

Head Coach: Chris Edwards

2021 Record: (5-5, no playoffs)

Looking Back – Edwards found last year both frustrating and perplexing. There were some legitimate expectations, but later there were inconsistencies and injuries to deal with in addition to competing District 5-3A, which featured a veteran Church Point team that reached the semifinals again. The coaches and players however rectified the situation by winning four straight towards the end of the regular season and should receive compliments for that effort.

Looking Ahead – The Raiders began the season with the loss of longtime defensive assistant Kenneth Bellard, who died suddenly the week before the parish jamboree. Edwards starts this season shuffling his assistants as well as overseeing the development of a new offensive alignment. Veteran head coach Kurt Ware is now the offensive coordinator who is implementing the Wing-T offense that Edwards thinks better complements the Raiders’ personnel. The offensive line is a veteran group, who started together as sophomores, so the new offense learning curve shouldn’t be too steep for his blockers, Edwards says.

What Does The Coach Think – Edwards feels having Ware assume more of the work load provides a chance for Edwards to be more of a head coach. With the death of Bellard however Edwards will now assume the responsibility of coaching at least one aspect of the defense. “The kids like (the Wing-T). There are fewer rules and with our offensive line as one of our strengths, it will allow us to be more physical up front. Defensively the Raiders will be younger, Edwards says.

Meet The Key Players – Donovan Thomas (Athlete, senior), Javian Reese (RB, LB, senior), Cameron Joubert (QB, WR, DB, senior), Wesley Moore (OT, DT, senior), Haywood Gallien (G, DT, senior), Jayden Lazard (T, DE, senior), Braylon McCarthy (C, senior).

Making Predictions – A glance at the roster reveals many freshmen and sophomores that will perhaps play key roles, especially on the defensive side. The top tier of players is excellent, with several three-year starters returning. How well the offense adapts to the Wing-T is certainly a factor. Reese gained 870 yards last year and Thomas is a legitimate threat at several positions. Northwest should still be among the Big Three teams in 5-3A.

*Note (analysis by Editor Bobby Ardoin)