Photographs by Bobbie Ardoin
2022 Football Outlook
Head Coach: Andre Vige
2021 Record: 7-5, playoffs
Looking Back – The Bobcats took a while to develop some cohesion, but Eunice with an abundance of first-year starters seemed to solidify late during the regular season, winning four straight and finishing second in District 4-4A. It was also the second straight year that Eunice reached the postseason.
Looking Ahead – There are core players returning on both sides of the ball, but Eunice still has to replace a leading tackler and an all-state honorable mention performer. What might seem a bit disconcerting to Vige are the new faces on the offensive line in addition to tight end. The strength of the team is probably defensively, especially at linebacker and on the back end. What also probably pleases Vige is the number of offensive playmakers who return to run the Bobcats’ Wing-T.
What Does the Coach Think – Vige can’t help be encouraged that 80 percent of the offensive production returns, but he is quick to point out that development along the offensive line will be crucial for success in his third season. “I like the experience at our skill positions and we are deep at running back. Defensively we have some inexperience on the line, but there’s no doubt our linebackers will be our strength on that side of the ball,” Vige says. Wide receiver Tyshun Joseph gained 506 yards last year, while wide receiver Tylon Cooper caught 30 passes for 458 yards. Linebacker Hayden Darbonne provided 110 tackles and was the district defensive MVP.
Meet the Key Players – Jesten Calloway (WB, LB senior); Josh Brown (QB, senior), Tyshun Joseph (TB, CB senior), Tylon Cooper (WR, senior), Landon Rougeau (C, senior), Hayden Darbonne (LB, RB, senior), Isiah Thomas (LB, RB, junior).
Making a Prediction – The starting Eunice High personnel is as good as any in St. Landry Parish, perhaps even a bit more talented. Vige is on record as saying his team can be better than last year and that is not an exaggeration. The season however will hinge on how healthy Eunice can remain throughout the duration. There is not much experienced depth available when injuries. I’ll take the over when betting whether Eunice has a successful year.
*Note – analysis by Editor Bobby Ardoin
