Jonesboro-Hodge kicks off the 2023 regular season this Friday by hosting General Trass at 7:00 pm at Caldwell-Peacock Stadium. The contest marks the second year in a row that the Tigers have opened with the District 2-2A team out of Lake Providence with JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship hoping for a better result. 

“They really jumped on us last year at their place,” said Blankenship. “Hopefully we will get off to a better start this year.”

For the record, General Trass won the contest 48-14 after leading the Tigers by four scores at the half on their way to an 8-4 season record and a regional round appearance in the Division IV playoffs. It marked the third year in a row that GT has reached at least the second round. 

Entering into his ninth year at the helm, head coach Toriano Wells has turned the Panthers into a consistent winner and has several veterans returning leading to optimism of another successful season. 

JHHS is coming off a 3-8 season and a first round loss in the Division IV playoffs hoping that the adversity that was faced last year turns into a benefit this season. Despite being thin in numbers and young in age, the Tigers return several players who were forced into action and gained valuable experience. 

In season opening jamboree action JHHS played a strong St. Frederick team tough before running out of gas late in the contest to fall 22-0. Defensively the Tigers stood strong as the score but the Tigers offense struggled mightily against the Warriors. General Trass had little trouble dispatching Madison Parish High 20-0. 

Players to watch: (General Trass)

#13 – Kameron Williams, Sr. RB / MLB. – The bona fide college prospect is recognized as one of the top linebackers in north Louisiana. Wreaked havoc last year with 78 tackles, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, four sacks and a blocked punt. Strong runner as well but used more as a punishing blocker.

#1 – Ahmoniee Williams, Jr. QB / DB – A stud at defensive back last year takes over as trigger man for the Panther offense. How he handles the new duties will be a key to the Panthers offensive fortunes.

#2 – Dylan Baker, Sr.. WR / DB– Outstanding receiver that has the kind of burst that makes him dangerous from anywhere on the field.  Two way player is a ballhawk in the defensive backfield as well. 

Players to Watch (Jonesboro-Hodge)

#3 – Dakota Knox, Sophomore DB / QB – Was named Player of the Game at Bayou Jamb after making an interception and turning in a stellar performance from his defensive back position. Started second half at QB. Possess break away speed once he reached the edge. 

#1 – Za’Mauryian Palmer, Jr. WR / DB – At 200 lbs. gives Tigers a distinct mismatch in size on the edge. If he gets enough touches can be a difference maker.

#10 – Landon Boston, Sophomore, RB / LB – Another who played lots of minutes as a Freshman and proved to be up to the task. By years end was one of the Tigers top tacklers. This year gets a chance punishing opponents the ball in his hand as well.

Keys to victory!

Conditioning! Both squads will be playing a lot of people both ways. Temp is expected to be in the low 90’s so whoever avoids key players falling with cramps will have a huge advantage.

Must get good QB play! It was the bane of the season last year as JHHS had four take snaps. Two did at the Jamboree with neither having any success. Must get good play from this position.

Senior laden line needs to step up! No where on the team has as many senior starters than the offensive and defensive line. Each has good size and has potential to be a force. Effort will be the key. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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