Natchitoches Central Chiefs

by Daniel Green, GeauxPreps.com Contributor

Back during the spring, the Natchitoches Central Chiefs made what many considered a home-run hire in bringing in three-time state championship coach Jess Curtis from Many. It was a move which infused life into the football program, which heightened interest in the student body at the largest high school in Natchitoches Parish.

“It’s a new day at Natchitoches Central,” said Curtis, who won three state championships while at Many High School, compiling an overall record of 142-32, winning 10 or more games in a season for the past five years. “This is a talent-rich area and we are here to see it to its potential. The kids here are a lot like Many. They want to win and have bought in big time. We have been able to get more kids out and the momentum has been awesome. This program will start its rise this year.”

Known for his vaunted ground game at Many, Curtis and the Chiefs will take advantage of their athleticism and move to a spread offense. Perhaps the most impressive unit on the offensive side of the ball is in the trenches, where the five projected starters, which includes three-star Ole Miss commit Joe Cryer, averages 290 pounds. This should bode well for who wins the starting quarterback job, which will be either Lannon Collum or Owen Smith. Additionally, Cam Davis will be the leader of the receiving corps, which has plenty of speed and ability to catch the ball.

On the defensive side of the ball, Curtis will employ the 3-3-5 stack look, which he used very successfully at Many. Among the leaders on the defense are defensive lineman Demond Bynum and Braden Woods, along with free safety Dillion Adams.