Photograph by Freddie Herpin
2022 Football Outlook
Head Coach: Jacob Carruth
2021 Record: 0-10, no playoffs
Looking Back – Carruth came to North Central last year as a first-year head coach looking to resurrect a moribund football program. While the Hurricanes didn’t win a game, Carruth laid a foundation for continuing a building process and teaching the primary elements of football. He stuck with the plan and didn’t leave despite having offers elsewhere.
Looking Ahead – This season instead of searching for players, Carruth says he is looking for more players’ equipment as interest in football has increased. An active summer program included traditional weights and conditioning as well as the first spring football practice anyone at the school can remember. North Central returns a couple of key players in sophomore quarterback Craig Malveaux and senior Ian Campo, a fullback and linebacker who sets off an old-school player vibe. The receivers are Byron Smith, a junior and Jamarion Tanner, a first-year senior. The offensive line has size, with Tahj Dixon (260), Lane Firmin (260) and Michael Fontenot (245). The ‘Canes will probably run a 4-2-5 defense and use a spread formation that lets Malveaux get creative.
What Does The Coach Think – Carruth describes where his team is this season compared to 2021 as a “night and day” experience. “I can’t wait for people to see what we look like. There are some games on our schedule right now that we think are winnable. We did a lot of stuff in the spring, getting our base plays down. Last year I guess you could say the things I learned about coaching could stretch a mile. I think one difference this season is our offensive line that will allow us to run the ball better. (Malveaux) is a good athlete and we will use him for our option looks,” says Carruth.
Meet the Key Players – Byron Smith (WR, DB, Sr.), Craig Malveaux (QB, DB, sophomore), Jamarion Tanner (WR, CB, Sr.), Ayden Minor (RB, DB, Fr.), Tristan Brown (WR, DB, Sr.), Davion Lavergne (WR, CB, Sr.), Dylan Robertson (SS, LB, Sr.), Ian Campo (FB, LB, Sr.), Lane Firmin (OL, DL, Fr.), Michael Fontenot (OL, DL, Sr.), Tahj Dixon (OL, DL, Sr.).
Making a Prediction – Memories need to dig deeply to find the last time North Central won a district football game. The kicking game needs work to help that happen. Early success is important for North Central and judging from the faith Carruth has in his players that might happen soon.
*Note: analysis by Editor Bobby Ardoin
