Mark Hudspeth

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2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 mark hudspeth

Mark Hudspeth Fourth Season at Louisiana • 27-12 Delta State, 1992

Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns head football coach dominant on their home turf posting a 14-2 Mark Hudspeth is a winner. It’s that simple. record in three seasons. With an exciting brand From his earliest days as a coach leading of football, attendance at Cajun Field has risen Winston (Miss.) Academy to the 1997 Mississippi with seven of the top 15 single-game attendance state title to providing Ragin’ Cajun fans a thrilling marks in school history occurring since Hud- 24-21 win over Tulane for the program’s third speth’s arrival. consecutive bowl victory in as many seasons, In two of Hudspeth’s first three seasons, Hudspeth has been a champion. the Cajuns have led the Sun Belt Conference in Like football, winning is all he knows. average attendance while posting the two highest Hired as Louisiana’s 26th head coach in pro- single-season marks in school history, highlighted gram history on Dec. 13, 2010, Hudspeth quickly by a single-season average of 29,171 fans in 2011. grabbed the attention of Ragin’ Cajuns fans with Since Hudspeth’s arrival in Lafayette, 28 his dynamic personality, energy and desire. He players have been named to the All-Sun Belt tirelessly toured the Acadiana area, speaking to Conference team with two players – Alonzo Harris any group that wanted to listen to him talk about (2011) and Elijah McGuire (2013) – being named Ragin’ Cajuns football. the league’s Freshman of the Year. Individually, And for a passionate fan base that has McGuire added to a solid inaugural campaign for dreamed of a consistent winner on the gridiron, the Ragin’ Cajuns as he was named a Freshman Hudspeth has delivered from his first day on the All-American while linebacker Justin Anderson job. became the seventh player to participate in the The development of the Cajuns in three sea- Senior Bowl. sons under Hudspeth has been dramatic. With 27 While the Ragin’ Cajuns have excelled on wins in Hudspeth’s first three seasons, Louisiana the field under Hudspeth, they have also thrived has posted the best three-year record in program in the classroom. In seven semesters under Hud- history while claiming three consecutive R+L speth dating back to 2011, the Cajuns have turned Carriers New Orleans Bowl victories in the process. in six of the best team grade point averages dat- With bowl victories in each of the past three ing back to 1982. seasons, the Ragin’ Cajuns are one of six schools in In the spring of 2014, the Cajuns’ GPA of the country to accomplish that feat joining Florida 2.849 was the highest recorded in a semester State, Michigan State, Oregon, South Carolina and in school history and marked the fifth consecu- Texas A&M. tive semester of earning a team average of 2.6

2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt Under Hudspeth, the Cajuns have been or better. Over 40 percent of the players on the

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 The Mark Hudspeth File Personal Hometown Louisville, Miss. Birthplace Montgomery, Ala. Family Married to the former Tyla McConnell Two sons: Gunner (17), Major (3), One daughter: Carley (14) Date Hired At Louisiana December 13, 2010

Education Winston (Miss.) Academy 1988 Delta State University 1992 B.S. in Health & Education mark hudspeth University of Central Arkansas 1993 M.S. in Secondary School Admininstration

Coaching Experience Head Coach louisiana, 2011-present 27-12 Overall Record (Three seasons) 33 93-33 Career Record (10 Years) 2011 New Orleans Bowl Champions 2012 New Orleans Bowl Champions 2013 New Orleans Bowl Champions Visiting with legendary head coach Bill Snyder prior to the Ragin’ Cajuns 2013 game at Kansas State. 2013 Sun Belt Conference Champions squad earned a 3.0 GPA or better. Heading up After three years as an assistant coach at the academic front, four-year letterwinner Andre Delta State (1999-2000) and Navy (2001), Hud- Assistant Coach Mississippi State, 2009-10 Huval capped off an outstanding career for the speth took over as head coach at North Alabama Passing Coordinator/WR Ragin’ Cajuns by being named to the Capital One and the winning quickly commenced. He guided No. 15 Final AP Ranking, 2010 Academic All-District team for the second con- the Lions to a 66-21 record in seven seasons 2010 Gator Bowl secutive year. (2002-08), winning two Gulf South Conference From the day he arrived on campus, Hud- titles and making five appearances in the NCAA Head Coach North Alabama, 2002-08 speth began educating the Ragin’ Cajuns on how Division II Championship, advancing to the semi- 66-21 Overall Record (Seven Years) to win on a consistent level. Inheriting a team that finals three times (2003, 2005, 2008). Gulf South Champions (2003, 2006) was coming off a 3-9 record in 2010, Hudspeth Inheriting a program that had three con- NCAA Division II Semi-Finals led the Ragin’ Cajuns to a school-record tying nine secutive losing records, Hudspeth turned things (2003, 2005, 2007, 2008) wins and a bowl victory in his first season at the around quickly, helping UNA to a 13-1 record in NCAA Division II Quarter-Finals (2006) helm. just his second season (2003). UNA claimed the 2003, 2006 Gulf South Coach of the Year One of the first lessons he gave came when league title with a perfect 9-0 mark and advanced he had the offense and defense engage in an old- to the NCAA Championship for the first time in Assistant Coach Navy, 2001 fashioned tug of war. As the rope went back and seven years, defeating Southern Arkansas and Offensive Coordinator forth with neither team generating enough force Carson-Newman before falling at North Dakota in to win the battle, Hudspeth stopped the Cajuns the national semi-finals. Assistant Coach Delta State, 1999-2000 and had both teams move to the same side of the For his effort, Hudspeth was named the Gulf Offensive Coordinator rope, pointing out how much easier it is to move South Coach of the Year while also being voted 2000 NCAA Division II National Champs the rope when everyone was on the same side the NCAA Division II Region 2 Coach of the Year by and fighting for the same thing. the American Football Coaches Association. Assistant Coach Nicholls State, 1994-95 Months later in New Orleans against San The winning didn’t stop there as the Lions WR/TE (1994), Running Backs (1995) Diego State, with Louisiana down a point with 35 went 11-3 and advanced to the NCAA semis in seconds left and a seemingly endless length of 2005, the first of four straight 10-win campaigns. Graduate Assistant Central Arkansas, 1992-93 Superdome turf away from even having a chance UNA went 11-1 in 2006, including 8-0 in 1992 Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference Champs to win, the Ragin’ Cajuns remembered that lesson league play to claim its second Gulf South title, by digging in and driving 49 yards in five plays with Hudspeth earning his second coach of the Playing Experience to set up Brett Baer’s game-winning 50-yard field year award while also being selected as the NCAA Delta State University, 1987-91 goal as time expired. Division II Region 2 Coach of the Year again. The Four Letters (1988-91) The NFL has also paid attention to what Lions followed that up with a 10-2 record and an Started at Safety (1990) & QB (1991) is happening with the Ragin’ Cajuns. In 2011, appearance in the NCAA Division II quarterfinals Dwight Bentley (Detroit) and Ladarius Green (San in 2007. Honors and Awards Diego) were selected in the NFL Draft. In 2012, Hudspeth capped off his tenure at North Finalist, Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year, 2011 seven Cajuns seniors earned invitations to NFL Alabama by guiding the Lions to a 12-2 record in Finalist, Paul “Bear” Bryant Award, 2011 preseason camps while five former Cajuns earned 2008 and making their fourth straight NCAA ap- 2003, 2006 Gulf South Coach of the Year ew orleans bowl champions spots after the 2013 campaign. pearance, falling in the semifinals. A 22-year coaching veteran, Hudspeth Born on Nov. 10, 1968 in Montgomery, Ala., carries a 93-33 career record in 10 seasons as a Hudspeth moved to Louisville, Miss., before the collegiate head coach, winning 10 or more games age of one. In a town with a population of just five times and having winning records in nine 7,000, he quickly became one of the towns’ most straight campaigns. notable young men. Hudspeth, 45, came to Lafayette after serv- Success came to Hudspeth at Winston Acad- ing as the passing game coordinator at Missis- emy as he helped the Patriots to the state title sippi State for two seasons (2009-10), helping the game as a senior in football 1987. He went on to Bulldogs end eight years of football frustrations earn all-county honors three times and play in the

by making a Gator Bowl appearance in his final Mississippi High School All-Star game as a senior. 2011-2012-2013 N season. After graduating from Delta State with a

#geauxcajuns 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 degree in health and education in 1992, Hudspeth as head coach, guiding the team to a 25-1 record began his coaching career as a graduate assistant and the 1997 state title during his two seasons. at Central Arkansas, receiving his master’s degree Hudspeth returned to Delta State in 1999 Mark Hudspeth in secondary school administration in 1993. and served as offensive coordinator for two While at UCA, he was part of the coaching seasons, helping lead the Statesmen to the 2000 vs. All Opponents staff that guided the squad to the 1992 Arkansas NCAA Division II national title. He moved to An- Intercollegiate Conference crown. napolis to serve as offensive coordinator at Navy Akron 1-0 Hudspeth earned his first full-time coaching in 2001 before earning his first collegiate head Appalachian State First meeting position when he went to Nicholls State, coaching coaching job at North Alabama the following year. Arizona 0-1 the wide receivers and tight ends in 1994 and the Hudspeth, who is married to the former Tyla Arkansas 0-1 running backs in 1995. McConnell, has two sons, Gunner and Major, and Arkansas State 1-2 His high school alma mater beckoned in one daughter, Carley. Arkansas Tech 5-0 1996 as Hudspeth returned to Winston Academy Arkansas-Monticello 6-1

mark hudspeth Boise State First meeting Carson-Newman 2-0 Central Arkansas 4-1 Delta State 5-3 East Carolina 1-0 FIU 2-0 34 Florida 0-1 Florida Atlantic 2-0 Georgia State 1-0 Harding 5-2 Henderson State 3-0 Jacksonville State 1-0 Kansas State 0-1 Kent State 1-0 Lamar 1-0 Lambuth 1-0 Louisiana Tech First meeting Middle Tennessee 1-0 Newberry 1-0 New Mexico State 1-0 Nicholls State 2-0 The Hudspeth Family (l-r): Gunner, Mark, Major, Tyla and Carley North Carolina Central 1-0 North Dakota 0-1 North Greenville 1-0 North Texas 1-1 THE HUDSPETH COACHING FILE NW Missouri State 0-2 As A Head Coach Oklahoma State 0-2 Ole Miss First meeting Year School Overall Conference Notes Quachita Baptist 3-1 1997-98 Winston Academy 25-1 16-0 1997 State Champions Samford 0-1 2002 North Alabama 4-7 3-6 San Diego State 1-0 2003 North Alabama 13-1 9-0 NCAA Division II Semi-Finals South Alabama 1-1 GSC Coach of the Year, GSC Champs Southern First meeting 2004 North Alabama 5-5 4-5 Southern Arkansas 7-1 2005 North Alabama 11-3 7-2 NCAA Division II Semi-Finals Stillman 1-0 2006 North Alabama 11-1 8-0 NCAA Division II Quarter-Finals Texas State 1-0 GSC Coach of the Year, GSC Champs Troy 3-0 2007 North Alabama 10-2 7-1 NCAA Division II Semi-Finals Tulane 2-0 2008 North Alabama 12-2 7-1 NCAA Division II Semi-Finals Tusculum 4-0 UNA Totals 66-21 45-15 (Seven Years) ULM 2-1 Valdosta State 5-5 2011 Louisiana 9-4 6-2 New Orleans Bowl Champions West Alabama 5-2 2012 Louisiana 9-4 6-2 New Orleans Bowl Champions West Georgia 6-1 2013 Louisiana 9-4 5-2 Sun Belt Conference Champions Western Kentucky 2-1 New Orleans Bowl Champions louisiana Totals 27-12 17-6 (Three Years) 2014 opponents in bold

Collegiate Totals 93-33 56-18 (10 Years) Career Totals 118-34 72-19 (12 Years)

As An Assistant Coach

Years school Position Postseason 1994 Nicholls State 1995 Nicholls State 1999 Delta State Offensive Coordinator 2000 Delta State Offensive Coordinator NCAA Division II National Champions 2001 Navy Offensive Coordinator 2009 Mississippi State Passing Coordinator/WR 2010 Mississippi State Passing Coordinator/WR No. 15 Final AP Ranking 2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt Toyota Gator Bowl

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Reed Stringer Assistant Head Coach • Tight Ends •Recruiting Coordinator Fourth Season at Louisiana • Delta State, 2001 reed stringer

THE STRINGER FILE Year at UL - Fourth Hometown - Canton, Miss. Wife - Emily Children - Smith, Banks, John Reed High School - Canton High School College - Delta State (B.A., 2001; MBA, 2003)

PLAYING EXPERIENCE Reed Stringer is entering his fourth season have also been a plus for the program. With the 1998-01 – Delta State (Offensive Lineman) as assistant head coach, tight ends coach and help of football academics, the Louisiana Ragin recruiting coordinator on the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajun student-athletes graduate at a higher rate COACHING EXPERIENCE Cajuns staff. As assistant head coach, he works among student-athletes in schools both in the 2002 – Delta State (Graduate Assistant) closely with head coach Mark Hudspeth on the state of Louisiana and the Sun Belt Conference, 2003-04 – Mississippi State (Graduate Assistant) daily operations of the Ragin’ Cajuns program, according to 2013 Federal Graduation Rates sta- 2005-08 – Mississippi St. (TEs / Special Teams) particularly overseeing all aspects of recruiting, tistics, which were released by the NCAA. On top 2009 – Mississippi State (Director of Recruiting) administering the football academic accountabil- of graduating its players, for the spring 2014 se- 2010 – Clemson (Player Development) ity program, and roster management. mester the Ragin Cajun football student-athletes 2011- present – Louisiana (Assistant Head Known for being a great evaluator and a re- posted its highest semester GPA ever recorded Coach/Tight Ends/Recruiting Coordinator) lentless recruiter, Stringer’s recruiting efforts have since the school began accumulating this data. led the way in Louisiana posting three consecu- Before spending the 2010 season on Dabo BOWL EXPERIENCE tive nine-win seasons for the first time in school Swinney’s staff at Clemson, Stringer spent seven Season – Bowl history. The 2014 Ragin’ Cajuns recruiting class seasons at Mississippi State in a variety of roles, 2007 – Liberty Bowl was ranked as the best in the Sun Belt Confer- beginning in 2003 as a graduate assistant working 2010 – Car Care Bowl ence for the third consecutive year by Scout.com. with the offensive line. He was promoted to tight 2011 – New Orleans Bowl Stringer, the 2012 Sun Belt Conference Recruiter ends coach on Sylvester Croom’s staff in 2005 and 2012 – New Orleans Bowl of the Year by Scout.com, was once again honored added special teams duties to his resume in 2007. 2013 – New Orleans Bowl in 2013 by the same publication as one of the top He was also the Director of Recruiting for Dan two recruiters in the Sun Belt Conference. Mullen’s 2009 staff. Being recognized for his recruiting efforts is A four-year letterman on the Statesmen’s nothing new to Stringer, a native of Canton, Miss. offensive line, he helped DSU claim the 2000 In 2009, he was named one of the SEC’s “Top 10 NCAA Division II national championship. Stringer Recruiters” by Rivals.com for his contributions to concluded his career with a string of 35 consecu- Mississippi State’s nationally-ranked class which tive starting assignments at offensive left tackle. produced 12 players who signed NFL contracts In addition to the 2000 national title, he was also and also included Cincinnati Red’s centerfielder instrumental in helping Delta State win the 1998

Billy Hamilton. and 2000 Gulf South Conference championships. ew orleans bowl champions As tight ends coach, Stringer has helped He earned a bachelor’s degree in business produce some of the top talent for the Ragin’ management from Delta State in 2001 and com- Cajuns highlighted by Ladarius Green, who was a pleted a master’s in business administration from three-time All-Sun Belt Conference performer and DSU in 2003. currently plays for the NFL’s San Diego Chargers. Stringer was born on January 26, 1979 in In 2013, senior Jacob Maxwell earned All-Sun Belt Canton, Miss. He is married to the former Emily Conference honors and along with Ian Thompson, Howell and they have three sons, Smith, Banks the duo each signed deals with NFL clubs with and an infant, John Reed. Maxwell inking with the Detroit Lions and Thomp- son with the Tampa Bay Bucs.

Stringer’s efforts in overseeing the Ragin 2011-2012-2013 N Cajun football academic accountability program

#geauxcajuns 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Jay Johnson Offensive Coordinator • Quarterbacks Fourth Season at Louisiana • Northern Iowa, 1992 jay johnsonjay

THE JOHNSON FILE Year at UL - Fourth Hometown - Lakeville, Minn. Wife - Lori Children - Cole High School - Lakeville North (Minn.) College - Northern Iowa (1992); Missouri (1994)

PLAYING EXPERIENCE An offensive strategist with over two 1993, serving as the quarterbacks, receivers and 1989-92 – Northern Iowa (Quarterback) decades of coaching experience, Jay Johnson is defensive backs coach. in his fourth season at Louisiana, serving as the In 1994, he moved to Missouri as a graduate COACHING EXPERIENCE Cajuns’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks assistant coach, later moving to Augsburg Col- 1993 – Columbia-Hickman HS (Assistant Coach) coach. lege, serving as the school’s offensive coordinator 1994 – Missouri (Graduate Assistant) In three seasons under Johnson’s tutelage, and recruitment coordinator from 1994-95, before 1995 – Augsberg College (Offensive the Cajuns have posted some of the top offensive moving to that same position at Truman State Coordinator/Recruiting Coordinator) performances in school history, including school from 1995-97. 1995-96 – Truman State (Offensive records for total offense (5,914) and points (461) in He served as a graduate assistant at Kansas Coordinator) 2012. from 1997-99 and became its quarterbacks coach 1997-99 – Kansas (Graduate Assistant) Under Johnson’s guidance in 2013, the in 1999, serving in that role until 2001. 1999-01 – Kansas (Quarterbacks) Cajuns set school-records for total first downs Johnson, a three-time All-Gateway Confer- 2001-03 – Kansas (Running Backs) (283) and total plays from scrimmage (883). The ence quarterback and four-time conference player 2003 – Southern Miss (Tight Ends) Cajuns produced four first-team All-Conference of the week in his playing days at Northern Iowa, 2004 – Southern Miss (Running Backs) selections, paced by the running back tandem of led his teams to a 31-8 record, and won three 2005-07 – Southern Miss (Offensive Alonzo Harris and Elijah McGuire. conference championships, while appearing in Coordinator) Terrance Broadway led all league starting three national playoffs. He finished his career with 2008 – Louisville (Administrative Assistant) quarterbacks in passing efficiency while complet- almost 500 completions and threw for over 8,000 2009 – Louisville (Tight Ends) ing 62 percent of his passes for 2,419 yards and 19 yards and 58 touchdowns. 2010 – Central Michigan (Quarterbacks) touchdowns. He was elected team captain in both the 2011 – present – Louisiana (Offensive In 2011, Blaine Gautier emerged as one of 1991 and 1992 seasons. He quarterbacked the ‘92 Coordinator/Quarterbacks) the top offensive threats in the south, throwing team to a 12-2 record, a conference championship for a school record 2,958 yards and 23 touch- and the No. 3 ranking in the final NCAA Div. 1-AA BOWL EXPERIENCE downs. In 2012, Broadway replaced Gautier and poll. Season – Bowl set a new school record for total offense (3,611). Johnson also holds a variety of academic 2003 – Liberty Bowl Before coming to Louisiana, Johnson spent honors to go with his on-field prowess. He earned 2004 – New Orleans Bowl one season at Central Michigan (2010) and was at President’s Academic Excellence honors in the 2005 – New Orleans Bowl Louisville from 2008-09. Gateway Conference and held a perfect 4.0 grade 2006 – GMAC Bowl Johnson was at Southern Miss for five years point average while completing his master’s 2007 – PapaJohns.com Bowl (2003-07), working with the tight ends (2003), run- degree at Missouri. That earned him a Superior 2011 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl ning backs (2004) and three as offensive coordina- Graduate Achievement Award from the Depart- 2012 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl tor and quarterbacks coach (2005-07) under head ment of Health and Exercise Science, and he was 2013 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl coach Jeff Bower. a Dean’s List scholar at Northern Iowa where While at USM, the Golden Eagles established he compiled a 3.47 GPA. He also taught several a school record for total offense in 2007 with courses while at Truman State and Missouri. 5,066, eclipsing the 5,000-yard plateau for the first He and his wife, Lori, have one son, Cole. time in school history. Johnson has honed his coaching skills at a variety of levels and schools. He started his coach- 2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt ing career at Columbia-Hickman High School in

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 James Willis Defensive Coordinator • Linebackers Second Season at Louisiana • Auburn, 2003 james willis

THE WILLIS FILE Year at UL - Second Hometown - Huntsville, Ala. Wife - Shalane Children - Jade, Jasselya, Jalen, Jordan James High School - J.O. Johnson High School College - Auburn, 2003

PLAYING EXPERIENCE 1990-92 – Auburn (Linebacker) James Willis begins his second year as defen- also coached a pair of Freshman All-Americans at 1993-95 - Green Bay Packers (Linebacker) sive coordinator for the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns linebacker at Auburn in Tray Blackmon (2006) and 1995-98 - Philadelphia Eagles (Linebacker) after leading one of the top units in the Sun Belt Spencer Pybus (2008). 1999 - Seattle Seahawks (Linebacker) Conference in 2013. Prior to his stint at Auburn, Willis coached 2001 - Birmingham Thunderbolts (XFL) In his first season with the Cajuns, Willis’ de- the linebackers at Temple (2005) and Rhode Island fense finished second overall in rushing defense (2004-05). He coached Rhode Island linebacker COACHING EXPERIENCE (204.5 yards per game) and third in total defense Teddy Gibbons to team MVP and All-Atlantic 10 2002 - Auburn (Student Assistant) (393.5). Conference honors in 2004. In 2003, Willis was 2003 - Auburn (Graduate Assistant) Linebacker Justin Anderson, who earned a defensive graduate assistant at Auburn after 2004-05 - Rhode Island (Linebackers) first-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors, finished working as a student assistant the previous two 2005 - Temple (Linebackers) the season second in the league in tackles with years at AU. 2006-08 - Auburn (Linebackers) 132 while Justin Hamilton (second-team) and Willis spent seven seasons in the NFL and 2009 - Alabama (Associate Head Coach/ Dominique Tovell (honorable mention) earned one season in the XFL. He began his professional Linebackers) league notice. career with the Green Bay Packers (1993-94) be- 2010 - Texas Tech (Defensive Coordinator) Willis, who spent two years as defensive fore making the move to Philadelphia (1995-98), 2011 - Virginia Destroyers (UFL) (Defensive coordinator with the Virginia Destroyers in the where he was a three-year starter for the Eagles. Coordinator) United Football League, was the defensive coor- His final NFL season was in 1999 with the Seattle 2012- present – Louisiana (Defensive dinator at Texas Tech in 2010 and spent the 2009 Seahawks and his playing career concluded in Coordinator/Linebackers) season at Alabama, helping the Crimson Tide to a 2001 with the Birmingham Thunderbolts of the Rose Bowl victory over Texas. XFL where he was the league’s defensive most BOWL EXPERIENCE Willis’ year-long stop in Tuscaloosa was a valuable player. Season – Bowl fruitful one as the Tide won the national cham- Over the course of his seven-year NFL career, 2006 – AT&T Cotton Bowl pionship in a 14-0 season. Serving as associate he was a part of six playoff teams including two 2007 - Chick-fil-A Bowl head coach to Nick Saban, Willis coached the conference championships. 2009 - Rose Bowl (BCS Championship) linebackers and helped lead a defense that ranked As a collegiate player, Willis was a three- 2010 - TicketCity Bowl second nationally in total defense. All-American year starter at Auburn (1990-92). He recorded 2013 – New Orleans Bowl linebacker Rolando McClain played under Willis’ 344 career tackles and was a member of the 1990 ew orleans bowl champions direction and claimed the prestigious Butkus Peach Bowl team. Willis was a first team All-SEC Award at season’s end. selection in 1992 and was the SEC Co-Defensive Willis spent the 2006-08 seasons as the Freshman of the Year in 1990. A fifth round draft linebackers coach at Auburn under Tommy pick by Green Bay following his junior season, Wil- Tuberville. The Tigers ranked No. 7 nationally in lis returned to earn his degree in Adult Education scoring defense in 2006 and followed with a No. from Auburn. 6 ranking in 2007 and a No. 14 ranking in scoring Willis was born in Huntsville, Ala. and played defense in 2008. Auburn appeared in two bowls high school football at J.O. Johnson High School, during his tenure - the 2007 AT&T Cotton Bowl where he was a Parade All-American as a line- and the 2007 Chick-fil-A Bowl. The Tigers defeated backer. He and his wife, Shalane, are the parents

Nebraska 17-14 in the Cotton Bowl and defeated of four children, daughters Jade and Jasselya, and 2011-2012-2013 N Clemson 23-20 in overtime in the Chick-fil-A. Willis sons, Jalen and Jordan James.

#geauxcajuns 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Mitch Rodrigue Running Game Coordinator • Offensive Line Fourth Season at Louisiana • Nicholls State, 1988 mitch rodrigue

THE RODRIGUE FILE Year at UL - Fourth Hometown - Thibodaux, La. Wife - Sherri Children - Maci, Madden, Mallori High School - Thibodaux HS College - Nicholls State (1988); Southern Miss (1990) A 27-year collegiate coaching veteran, Mitch performance in school history. The offensive line,

Rodrigue begins his fourth season as the running led by all-Conference USA performers George PLAYING EXPERIENCE game coordinator and offensive line coach at Batiste and Travis Cooley, only allowed nine sacks 1983 - Copiah-Lincoln Community College Louisiana. that season, ranking 12th in the nation, and did 1984-86 - Nicholls State (Offensive Line) A native of Thibodaux, La., Rodrigue joined not allow a sack in six games on the year. the Cajuns staff after working at South Alabama During his first season leading the USM of- COACHING EXPERIENCE for three seasons (2008-10). fensive line (2003), Rodrigue helped the Golden 1987-88 - Nicholls State (Student Assistant), In his tenure in Lafayette, Rodrigue has Eagles win their fourth Conference USA title and 1989-90 - Southern Miss (Graduate Assistant) developed an offensive line that ranks among earn an invitation to the Liberty Bowl despite 1991-92 - Pearl River CC (Offensive Line) the most efficient groups in the country. For the working with a unit that had lost three starters to 1993-98 - Nicholls State (Offensive Line/ second consecutive year in 2013, all five regulars the NFL from the previous year. Offensive Coordinator) started all 13 games together, helping Louisiana Before taking over as the offensive line coach 1999 - Southern Miss (Running Backs) rank 26th nationally in rushing (204.5 yards per in 2003, Rodrigue coached the running backs in 2000-02 - Southern Miss (Tight Ends) game), and 56th in total offense (416.8). 1999 and the tight ends from 2000-02. He also 2003-07 - Southern Miss (Offensive Line) His O-Line unit in 2012 saw a 55-percent assisted with the offensive line during his initial 2008-11 - South Alabama (Offensive Line/TEs) increase in rushing from the previous season and stint at Southern Miss, serving as the program’s 2011 – present – Louisiana (Offensive after inheriting a line that allowed 39 sacks in graduate assistant in 1989 and 1990 under former Line/Run Game Coordinator) 2010, Rodrigue molded a unit that gave up 13 in head coach Curley Hallman. 2012 to rank 13th in the country. Rodrigue coached several seasons at Nicholls BOWL EXPERIENCE In his career, Rodrigue has worked with State (1993-98), serving as tight ends and of- Season – Bowl schools that have earned a combined 12 bowl fensive line coach as well as offensive coordinator 1990 - All-American Bowl invitations, nine at Southern Miss and in each of during his time at his alma mater. While at NSU, 1996 - NCAA Division I-AA Playoffs his first three seasons with the Cajuns. Rodrigue helped the Colonels lead the Southland 1999 - AXA Liberty Bowl Before returning to his home state, Rodrigue Conference in passing. 2000 - GMAC Bowl was part of South Alabama’s first foray into foot- Prior to his coaching stint at Nicholls State, 2002 - Houston Bowl ball. Rodrigue worked for two seasons as an assistant 2003 – Liberty Bowl In the program’s inaugural season in 2009, coach at Pearl River (Miss.) Community College 2004 – New Orleans Bowl two of Rodrigue’s tight ends played a vital role in (1991-92) where he served as offensive line coach, 2005 – New Orleans Bowl helping the Jag offense average 439 yards and as well as strength and conditioning coach. 2006 – GMAC Bowl nearly 46 points per contest. Rodrigue played at Nicholls State and helped 2007 – PapaJohns.com Bowl Prior to his arrival at South Alabama, the Colonels reach the second round of the NCAA 2011 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Rodrigue spent nine seasons at Southern Miss, Division I-AA playoffs in 1986, as well as win the 2012 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl where he coached the offensive line (2003-07), 1984 Gulf Star Conference title. He also played 2013 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl tight ends (2000-02) and running backs (1999). one season at Copiah-Lincoln (Miss.) Community During his tenure, he was a valuable member College prior to his career at Nicholls State, and of the staff, not only on the field, but also as a was an all-district performer at Thibodaux High recruiter, as he was named one of Rivals.com Top School. 10 recruiters from a non-BCS conference in 2006. Rodrigue is married to the former Sherri In 2005, Rodrigue guided the offensive line Marcet and is the father of three children, Maci, to another strong season, as the offense finished Madden, and Mallori. 2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt with 4,288 yards of total offense, the sixth-best

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Tim Edwards Defensive Line Fourth Season at Louisiana • Delta State, 2001 tim edwards

THE EDWARDS FILE Year at UL - Fourth Hometown - Philadelphia, Miss. Wife - LuAnn Children - Halena, Timothy II, Kenci High School - Neshoba High School College - Delta State (B.A., 1991)

PLAYING EXPERIENCE 1986-90 – Delta State (Linebacker/Defensive An 18-year coaching veteran who boasts a a two-time All-American (1989-90) and played Lineman) half-dozen years playing experience at the profes- alongside Hudspeth, who was a four-year letter- 1991-93 - New England Patriots (NFL) sional level, Tim Edwards begins his fourth season man at DSU from 1986-90. Edwards was inducted 1995-97 - Saskatchewan Roughriders (CFL) as the defensive line coach for Louisiana. into the school’s Hall of Fame in the fall of 2008. Edwards came to Lafayette in January, 2011, A 12th-round pick by the New England COACHING EXPERIENCE reuniting with Mark Hudspeth, whom he played Patriots in 1991, he spent the 1991-92 seasons on 1996 - Delta State (Graduate Assistant) with at Delta State from 1987-91. the Patriots roster, before spending 1995-97 with 1998-01 - Kentucky State (Linebackers/ Mentoring a group that helped Louisiana the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. Defensive Line) rank second in the Sun Belt Conference and 47th A native of Philadelphia, Miss., he is married 2002 - Carolina Rhinos (AFL2) (Defensive nationally in rushing defense (150.7 yards per to the former LuAnn Shockency and they have Coordinator) game), Edwards was instrumental in the develop- three children, Halena, Timothy II and Kenci. 2002 - Pearl River CC (Defensive Line) ment of Justin Hamilton, who earned second- 2003-04 - Hampton (Linebackers) team All-Sun Belt Conference honors. 2005-07 - Hampton (Defensive Line/Defensive In 2012, Edwards helped Emeka Onyene- Coordinator kwu earn first team All-Sun Belt honors while 2008-10 - Florida A&M (Defensive Line/ his mentoring of Cordian Hagans and Christian Defensive Coordinator) Ringo helped each develop into two of the better 2011- present – Louisiana (Defensive Line) linemen in the league. In 2011, he helped Bernard Smith earn All-Sun Belt kudos. BOWL EXPERIENCE Prior to Louisiana, he spent the previous Season – Bowl three seasons as co-defensive coordinator, recruit- 2004 - FCS Playoffs ing coordinator and defensive line coach at FAMU. 2005 - FCS Playoffs Before Florida A&M, Edwards served a five- 2006 - FCS Playoffs year tenure at Hampton (2003-07), helping Hamp- 2011 - New Orleans Bowl ton capture back-to-back Black College National 2012 – New Orleans Bowl Championships in (2004 and 2005) and make 2013 – New Orleans Bowl three consecutive in the Division I FCS Playoffs. ew orleans bowl champions Edwards began his career in 1996 as a graduate assistant at Delta State before serving as linebackers and defensive line coach at Kentucky State from 1998-2001. He added stops with the Carolina Rhinos of the Arena Football League 2 and at Pearl River Community College. During his coaching career, four players (Ck- etus Hunt, Kentucky State; Justin Durant, Marcus Dixon and Kendall Langford of Hampton) have

earns spots in the NFL. 2011-2012-2013 N A 1991 graduate of Delta State, Edwards was

#geauxcajuns 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Marquase Lovings Running Backs Fourth Season at Louisiana • Howard, 2006 marquase lovings

THE LOVINGS FILE Year at UL - Fourth Hometown - Gainesville, Fla. High School - P.K. Yonge HS College - Howard (2006)

PLAYING EXPERIENCE 2002-03 - Howard (Tight End) Running backs coach Marquase Lovings en- linemen during Lovings’ four years, including Titus COACHING EXPERIENCE ters his fourth year on the Ragin’ Cajuns coaching Brown and Fletcher Cox. Brown went on to play 2007-08 - Mississippi State (Defensive Quality staff after helping Louisiana post one of the top with the Cleveland Browns from 2008-12, and Cox Control offensive seasons in school history. went on to become the 12th pick by the Philadel- 2009-10 - Mississippi State (Graduate Assistant) Lovings, a Gainesville, Fla., native, played a phia Eagles in the 2012 NFL Draft. 2011 - present - Louisiana (Running Backs) key role in the development of one of the top run- A graduate of and former walk-on tight end ning back tandems in the country - junior Alonzo with Howard University, Lovings also has high BOWL EXPERIENCE Harris and freshman Elijah McGuire. school coaching on his resume with stints at Season – Bowl The duo each combined for over 1,800 yards Dunbar High in Washington, D.C. and at his alma 2007 – Liberty Bowl and 22 rushing touchdowns on the season and mater, P.K. Yonge High in Gainesville. 2010 – Gator Bowl each earned first-team All-Sun Belt Conference He earned his masters in Sports Administra- 2011 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl honors in 2013. Harris finished third in the league tion from Mississippi State in 2008 and pursued a 2012 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl with 942 yards and 14 touchdowns while McGuire doctorate in education at MSU. 2013 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl recorded 863 yards, averaging 8.3 yards per carry, while scoring eight TDs and earning Freshman All-America honors. Behind a solid running attack that also featured Torrey Pierce and Effrem Reed, the 2013 Cajuns finished second in the Sun Belt Conference in rushing offense (204.5) and 26th nationally. In 2011, Lovings’ helped Harris, then a freshman, emerge early in the season, finishing the year with 700 yards and eight touchdowns to earn Sun Belt Freshman of the Year honors. In 2012, Harris was joined by freshmen Reed and Pierce, allowing the Cajuns to improve their rushing from 125.2 to 193.5 yards per game, ranking them 34th nationally and second in the Sun Belt. Prior to joining the Cajuns, Lovings spent four seasons at Mississippi State (2007-10), first as a defensive quality control coach before taking over as defensive graduate assistant for his final two seasons. While in Starkville, Lovings served on a Bulldog staff that included Mark Hudspeth, then the Pass Game Coordinator and Receivers coach, along with Reed Stringer, the Bulldogs’ Coordina- tor of Recruiting Operations. 2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt The Bulldogs had several standout defensive

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Jorge Munoz Wide Receivers Seventh Season at Louisiana • Bethany, 1998 jorge munoz

THE MUNOZ FILE Year at UL - Seventh Hometown - San Diego, Calif. Wife - Erin Children - Ava, Alex High School - Hilltop HS College - Bethany College, 1998

PLAYING EXPERIENCE 1995-96 – Bethany College (Quarterback) Jorge Munoz begins his seventh year as an Southern (2004-05), Anderson College (2001-02) 1997-98 - Albany Firebirds, AFL (Quarterback) assistant coach at Louisiana and the fourth as Southeast Missouri (1999-00) and his alma mater, receivers coach on the staff of Mark Hudspeth. Bethany College (1998) COACHING EXPERIENCE Munoz’ work with the Cajuns wide receivers A 1998 grad, he was a two-time All-Ameri- 1998 - Bethany College (Quarterbacks/Receivers) in his tenure has been exemplary. In 2013, Jamal can quarterback at Bethany. He played one year 1999-00 - Southeast Missouri (Receivers) Robinson earned second-team All-Sun Belt Con- in the Arena Football League with the Albany 2001-02 - Anderson University (Offensive fernce honors after finishing seventh in the league Firebirds. Munoz was a multi-sport standout at Coordinator/Receivers) in receptions (54), fifth in receiving yards per San Diego Hilltop High. 2003-04 - Charleston Southern (Receivers) game (66.3) while his eight TD receptions were Munoz and his wife, Erin, have two children, 2005 - Eastern Illinois (Receivers) tied for fifth-most in a single season in school his- Ava and Alex. 2006-07 - Eastern Illinois (Offensive Coordinator/ tory. Quarterbacks) Javone Lawson (134 catches, 2,107 yards, 15 2008-10 - Louisiana (Pass Game Coordinator/ TDs) and Harry Peoples (122-1,514-6) concluded Quarterbacks) their careers in 2012 as only the third set of receiv- 2011- present – Louisiana (Receivers) ers in school history to each have 100 receptions in a career. BOWL EXPERIENCE In 2011, Munoz played an integral role in Season – Bowl the Cajuns throwing for over 3,500 yards. Lawson 2005 - Division I FCS Playoffs (63 catches, 1,092 yards) posted one of the top 2006 - Division I FCS Playoffs seasons by a Louisiana receiver while Peoples and 2007 - Division I FCS Playoffs Darryl Surgent also emerged as steady targets for 2011 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Blaine Gautier. 2012 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl As passing game coordinator in 2008, the 2013 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Cajuns’ “Play Station” attack shattered the school records for total offense (5,390 yards) and touchdowns (54).

He helped Michael Desormeaux record the ew orleans bowl champions second-most yards of total offense in school history and as a result, Desormeaux was named the 2008 Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Year. Prior to joining the Louisiana staff, Munoz spent three seasons at Eastern Illinois (2005-07), starting as receivers coach in 2005, co-offensive coordinator in 2006 and offensive coordinator in 2007. During his time with EIU, the Panthers were ranked in the top-25 each season in the Division I

FCS rankings and advanced to the FCS Playoffs. 2011-2012-2013 N Before that he coached at Charleston

#geauxcajuns 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Tim Rebowe Defensive Backs 11th Season at Louisiana • LSU, 1987 tim rebowe

THE REBOWE FILE Year at UL - Eleventh Hometown - Norco, La. Wife - Kim Children - Samantha, Tyler High School - Destrehan HS College - LSU (1987)

COACHING EXPERIENCE Tim Rebowe begins his 11th season as an In 2005, the Cajuns’ pass defense was ranked 1998-91 - Destrehan HS (Defensive Backs/ assistant coach at Louisiana, and the fourth on 23rd nationally, allowing only 190 yards per game Special Teams) the staff of coach Mark Hudspeth. He will once despite opponents facing an uphill climb in eight 1992-94 - Destrehan HS (Head coach) again work with the Cajun safeties. He previously games. The Cajuns trailed after three quarters just 1995-99 - Nicholls State (Defensive Backs/ tutored the safeties from 2004-07 and coached twice in 2005. Special Teams/Recruiting Coordinator) the linebackers from 2008-10. Rebowe came to UL after three seasons as 2000 - Nicholls State (Receivers /Recruiting Behind a ballhawking unit that tied for the cornerbacks coach at Sun Belt rival La.-Monroe. Coordinator) Sun Belt Conference lead with 14 interceptions Prior to his stint with the Warhawks, Rebowe 2001-03 - ULM (Cornerbacks) in 2013, the Cajuns were led by second-team spent six years at Nicholls State where he served 2004-07 - Louisiana (Safeties) All-Sun Belt Conference selection Trevence Patt. as defensive backs coach (1995-2000), special 2008-10 - Linebackers The Cajuns saved their best for last in a 24-21 win teams’ coordinator (1995-98), recruiting coordina- 2011-present - Defensive Backs over Tulane in the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl tor (1998-2000) and wide receivers coach (2000). as Sean Thomas picked off a pair of passes while In 1996, the Colonels pass efficiency defense BOWL EXPERIENCE Corey Trim returned an interception for an New ranked seventh nationally in I-AA. Season – Bowl Orleans Bowl-record 82-yard touchdown. A native of Norco, La., Rebowe began his 1996 - NCAA Division I-AA Playoffs The safeties responded to Rebowe in 2011. coaching career in 1987 at his alma mater, Destre- 2011 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Jemarlous Moten finished second on the team han High School. 2012 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl with 80 tackles and combined with Lionel Stokes While at Destrehan, Rebowe coached future 2013 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl to intercept five passes, returning three for scores. NFL Hall of Famer Ed Reed along with future Cajun The Cajuns’ linebackers had stellar seasons Damon Mason. for three years under Rebowe, with a member of Rebowe earned his bachelor of science in the linebacking corps leading the team in tackles physical education from LSU in 1987. each season. He is married to the former Kim Robichaux Rebowe guided linebackers Antwyne and they have a daughter, Samantha, and a son, Zanders and Grant Fleming, who ranked first and Tyler. second on the team in total tackles in 2009, re- spectively. Both players were named All-Sun Belt Conference. For Zanders, it was his third All-SBC recognition, while Fleming earned All-SBC for the second time. The Cajuns’ pass defense had a strong first year under Rebowe in 2004, finishing with a No. 11 national ranking in passing yards allowed. Both of his starting safeties advanced to the NFL. Strong safety C.C. Brown (101 tackles) was drafted by the Houston Texans in the 2005 NFL Draft and free safety Antwain Spann, who signed as a free agent with the New York Giants, played in NFL Europe and several seasons with the New England 2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt Patriots.

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 David Saunders Cornerbacks Fourth Season at Louisiana • Auburn, 1982 david saunders david

THE SAUNDERS FILE Year at UL - Fourth Hometown - Douglasville, Ga. Children - Riley, Kaylee High School - Douglasville College - Auburn, 1982

PLAYING EXPERIENCE Auburn David Saunders enters his fourth season on ders was the defensive coordinator and defensive COACHING EXPERIENCE the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns coaching staff, where backs coach at Nicholls State. It was at Nicholls 1984-89 - Jacksonville State (Defensive Backs/ he works with the cornerbacks. State that Saunders coached with Ed Orgeron, Wide Recievers/Recruiting Coordinator) Saunders helped mentor Trevence Patt in who was the Colonels linebackers coach in 1990-92 - Georgia Southern (Defensive Line) 2013 as the junior earned second-team All-Sun 1994. While at Nicholls State, Saunders coached 1993-94 - Nicholls State (Defensive Coordinator/ Belt Conference honors. defensive back Darryl Pounds, who played for the Defensive Backs) In 2011, he mentored cornerbacks Dwight Washington Redskins of the NFL. 1995 - Baylor (Defensive Backs) Bentley and Melvin White, who helped the Cajuns From 1990 to 1992, Saunders coached the 1996-97 - Arkansas State (Defensive Backs/ secondary to return seven interceptions for defensive line at Georgia Southern, and helped Recruiting Coordinator) touchdowns. Bentley was a third round selection lead the Eagles to the 1990 Division I-AA national 1998 - Tennessee (Recruiting Coordinator) by the Detroit Lions. In 2012, White teamed with championship. 1998-2002 - Ole Miss (Recruiting Coordinator) Jemarlous Moten to give Louisiana two of the From 1984 to 1989, Saunders coached 2003-05 - Millsaps (Head coach) most versatile corners in the Sun Belt. White defensive backs and receivers while serving as 2006 - Ole Miss (Linebackers) (Carolina Panthers) and Moten (Baltimore Ravens) recruiting coordinator at Jacksonville State. While 2010 - Ole Miss (Administrative coordinator) each signed NFL free agent contracts. at JSU, Saunders coached defensive back Eric 2011- present – Louisiana (Cornerbacks) Saunders had three stints on the staff at Ole Davis, who earned All-Pro honors in the NFL and Miss, working as an administrative assistant on played for the 1995 Super Bowl Champion San BOWL EXPERIENCE the 2010 team that claimed the Cotton Bowl with Francisco 49ers. Saunders also coached receiver Season – Bowl a 21-7 victory over Oklahoma State. Keith McKeller, who played in three Super Bowls 1990 - NCAA Division I-AA National Champions Prior to being named head coach at Mill- with the Buffalo Bills, and defensive back Darrel 1998 - Independence Bowl saps, Saunders had spent four years at Ole Miss, Malone, who played with the Kansas City Chiefs 1999 - Independence Bowl including the first two as Assistant to the Athletics and Miami Dolphins. 2000 - Music City Bowl Director for Recruiting and the final two as Coor- Before entering the collegiate coaching 2002 - Independence Bowl dinator of High School and Community College ranks, Saunders was an assistant football coach at 2010 - Cotton Bowl Relations. Andalusia High School in Alabama from 1982 to 2011 - New Orleans Bowl During his first stint at Ole Miss, which 1983. 2012 – New Orleans Bowl began in December of 1998, Saunders established Saunders, a native of Douglasville, Ga., ew orleans bowl champions 2013 – New Orleans Bowl an acclaimed recruiting program and was lauded graduated from Auburn University in 1982 with as one of the top nine recruiters in the nation by a bachelor of science degree and was a walk-on Tom Lemming of ESPN.com. lineman for the Tigers. While at Auburn, Saunders Saunders first joined the Ole Miss athletics also assisted with the junior varsity, working with staff in 1998 after working at Tennessee, where he the offensive and defensive lines. was responsible for on-campus recruiting. Saunders is the father of two children, Riley Prior to accepting the Tennessee position, and Kaylee. Saunders served two years as assistant football coach and recruiting coordinator at Arkansas State (1996-97). He spent the 1995 season coach-

ing safeties and special teams at Baylor. 2011-2012-2013 N During the 1993 and 1994 seasons, Saun-

#geauxcajuns 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Troy Wingerter Director of Football Operations 16th Season at Louisiana • Louisiana, 1993

Former Louisiana standout Troy Wingerter entered into a new role with the Ragin’ Cajuns THE WINGERTER FILE football program in 2011, becoming the director Year at UL - Sixteenth of football operations for head coach Mark Hud- Hometown - New Orleans, La. speth. Wife - Cydra support staff Wingerter started his career with the Children - Holden and Aiden Louisiana Athletic Department in 1997. He was High School - Archbishop Rummel HS the tight ends coach as a graduate assistant from College - Louisiana (1993); Louisiana (1999) 1997-99. Wingerter coached the defensive ends in COACHING EXPERIENCE 2001 under head coach Jerry Baldwin and served 1997-99 - Louisiana (Graduate Assistant) 44 in the role of Cajuns’ tight ends coach and recruit- 2001 - Louisiana (Defensive Ends) ing coordinator from 2002-10 for Rickey Bustle. 2002-10 - Louisiana (Recruiting Coordinator/ In 2009, tight end Luke Aubrey led the team Tight Ends in receptions while tight end Ladarius Green 2011-present - Louisiana (Director of Football topped the team in yards. Green was one of just Operations) three underclassmen named to the 2009 Mackey Award Watch List. BOWL EXPERIENCE In 2010, Green was one of just eight semifi- Season – Bowl nalists for the prestigious Mackey Award, which is 2011 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl given to the nation’s top tight end. He was a first 2012 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl team All-Sun Belt selection, a first team All-Louisi- 2013 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl ana pick and garnered second team All-America honors by CBSSports.com and fourth team All- was a permanent team captain as a senior. America accolades by Phil Steele. He was selected as a member of the all-time A native of New Orleans, Wingerter was a University of Louisiana football team as compiled first-team All-Louisiana selection and an All-South by the Lafayette Daily Advertiser. Independent pick as a senior in 1991. He helped Wingerter and his wife, Cydra, have two sons, guide the Cajuns to three straight winning sea- Holden and Aiden. sons during his first three years from 1987-89 and

Ryan Trichel Director of Player Personnel Fourth Season at Louisiana • Southeastern Louisiana, 2006

Ryan Trichel begins his fourth season as a As an undergraduate at Southeastern member of the Ragin’ Cajuns support staff and his Louisiana University, Trichel worked for two years second as director of player personnel. (2004-06) as an operations assistant in the athletic THE TRICHEL FILE Trichel joined the staff in January, 2011 as department, assisting in the game day operations Year at UL - Fourth assistant director of football operations and as- for seven sports, including football. Hometown - Monroe, La. sistant recruiting coordinator. He was promoted Trichel graduated from SLU in 2006 with a Wife - Amanda to his current full-time position in January, 2013. degree in general management and enrolled in Children - Ryan Joseph The 2012 recruiting class was ranked graduate school at Mississippi State, earning a High School - St. Frederick’s HS first among Sun Belt Conference schools and master’s degree in sports administration in 2008 College - Southeastern Louisiana, 2006; fifth among the non-BCS automatic qualifying and a second master’s in business administration Mississippi State, 2008 and 2010 programs by Scout.com, while 247 Sports had the in 2010. class ranked 68th in the nation. An active member of the American Football COACHING EXPERIENCE In his role as player personnel director, Coaches Association, Trichel served on the 2011- present – Louisiana (Director of Player Trichel works closely with Coach Hudspeth to Program Committee for the 2012 convention in Personnel) manage the day-to-day recruiting efforts. He is Nashville, Tenn., helping to supervise panel discus- responsible for designing all recruiting material sions. BOWL EXPERIENCE and coordinating all on-campus recruiting events Trichel is married to the former Amanda Pel- Season – Bowl and visits, including the annual Cajuns Football legrin and they reside in Broussard with their son, 2011 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Junior Day. Ryan Joseph. 2012 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl Trichel also assists with the operation of all football summer camps, clinics and the football 2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt 2013 – R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl team’s social media platforms.

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Carrie Pitre Administrative Assistant Third Season at Louisiana

Carrie Pitre is in her third season as the administrative assistant to head coach Mark Hudspeth and the football staff. She joined the staff on a temporary basis in July, 2012 and was added in a full-time capacity later in the year. As an administrative assistant, Pitre is responsible for managing Coach Hudspeth’s daily schedule and overseeing the administrative needs of the staff. support staff Pitre works with Coach Hudspeth to manage the day-to-day needs of the Quarterback Club, a group of Cajuns supporters who provide additional funds and services to the program. A native of Macaé, Brazil, Pitre moved to the Lafayette in 1994. She is attending South Louisiana CC and is working on associate’s degrees in both business and general studies with a concentration in business. She intends to pursue a bachelor’s degree in web design The former Carolina Reeder, she married Nick Pitre in 2011 and the couple lives in Arnaudville with their son, Nicholas. 45

Jamie Dixon Sean Murphy Lionel Stokes Hunter Bonvillain Garrett Kreamer Offensive Graduate Offensive Graduate Defensive Graduate Student Assistant/ Administrative Intern Assistant Assistant Assistant Special Teams

Brady Thomas Henry Ohrenberger Kevon Beckwith Cory Brodie Trenton Miles Administrative Intern Administrative Intern Student Assistant/ Student Assistant/ Student Assistant/ Defensive Line Offense Offense ew orleans bowl champions 2011-2012-2013 N

#geauxcajuns 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Jason Manikowski Rusty Whitt Assistant Strength & Head Strength & Conditioning Coach Conditioning Coach Jason Manikowski arrived Rusty Whitt began his tenure at the University of Louisiana in as the University of Louisiana’s head June 2011 to serve as an assistant strength and conditioning coach in strength and conditioning coach. October 2010. Manikowski joined the Cajuns’ Whitt, who served in the Unit- upport staff strength staff after spending the

S ed States Army as a Senior Special previous 17 months as a strength Forces Communication Sergeant and conditioning graduate assistant in the 10th Special Forces Group, at TCU. came to Louisiana from Rice University where he served as assistant While at TCU, Manikowski was the head strength coach for coordinator of strength and conditioning from March 2009 until the Horned Frogs women’s basketball and equestrian programs. his hiring at UL. He designed all of the strength, speed and agility programs for 46 At Rice, Whitt designed and implemented year-round women’s basketball, while assisting with football. strength, speed, mobility, cardiovascular conditioning and injury In the summer of 2009, Manikowski served as an intern at TCU rehabilitation programs for football, baseball, track and field and where he helped demonstrate proper technique in performing swimming. Olympic lifts and improving speed development. Prior to joining the staff at Rice, he served in the United States Prior to working at TCU, he was employed as a physical educa- Army from Aug. 2003-Jan. 2009. He was deployed to Iraq during tion teacher at St. Catherine’s High School in Racine, Wisc. Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) V and VI. In 2007, Manikowski was the assistant strength and condition- Whitt developed and initiated a comprehensive pre-deploy- ing coach for football at his alma mater, Wisconsin–Oshkosh. ment conditioning program for his Special Forces Team prior to and Manikowski holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education during OIF V and VI. He received a combat infantry badge, two Iraqi and health education from UW-Oshkosh, where he was a four-year campaign medals and an Army commendation medal with valor. starting free safety for the Titans. He was a second team Wisconsin Whitt began his strength and conditioning career with gradu- Intercollegiate Athletic Conference all-conference selection in 2005 ate assistantships at Midwestern State University (Aug. 1995-June and earned a preseason All-American accolade going into his senior 1996) and the University of Texas (June 1996-May 1997). He per- campaign in 2006. formed an internship in the strength and conditioning department at the U.S. Olympic Training Center (May-Sept. 1997). Whitt had stints as an assistant strength and conditioning coordinator for football at William and Mary (Dec. 1997-Aug. 1998) and Louisville (Aug.-Dec. 1998) before being named the head strength and conditioning coach at Sam Houston State in Dec. 1998. At SHSU, Whitt served as an instructor in the kinesiology department and assisted in the design of a new weight facility. He also worked with current Ragin’ Cajuns men’s basketball coach Bob Marlin until Aug. 2003. Over his career, Whitt has participated in the 1997 Fiesta Bowl, 1998 Motor City Bowl, I-AA football playoffs and NCAA men’s Chris Campbell Tip Graham Adam Hymel basketball tournament. Assistant Strength and Assistant Strength and Strength and Conditioning Whitt earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and Conditioning Coach Conditioning Coach Graduate Assistant administration from Abilene Christian University in 1994 and his master’s degree in kinesiology from Texas in 1997. He is a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Ryan Costello Aaron Thibodeaux Strength and Conditioning Strength and Conditioning Graduate Assistant Student Assistant 2013 sun belt champions2013 sun belt

RaginCajuns.com 2014 LOUISIANA RAGIN’ CAJUNS FOOTBALL MEDIA GUIDE 2014 Lynn Williams Travis Soileau Co-Head Director of Equipment Manager Athletic Training

Lynn Williams has served as Travis Soileau has served as a equipment manager since 1985 member of the Athletic Training staff directly oversees men’s sports and at the University of Louisiana since assists with football. 2003. He was named Director of Ath- A Lafayette native and a gradu- letic Training in July 2011. ate from Northside High School, Wil- Soileau currently serves as the athletic trainer for football and golf.

liams served five years as a student support staff manager at Louisiana. From 2003-07 he served as an After graduation in 1985, Lynn Assistant Athletic Trainer, assisting became the head equipment man- with football and directly overseeing ager. the care of men’s basketball and men’s and women’s track. Soileau Williams is a nationally certified equipment manager through was promoted to Associate Athletic Trainer prior to the 2007-08 ath- the Athletic Equipment Manager’s Association (A.E.M.A). letic season and for the next four years served as assistant football 47 athletic trainer and oversaw the care of the golf and track squads. A native of Port Barre, La, Soileau served as a student athletic trainer at UL, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1999. He attended Kerry Conner graduate school at Clemson University (2000-03), where he served Co-Head as a graduate assistant athletic trainer for swimming and diving for Equipment Manager one year and men’s soccer team for two years. Soileau and his wife, Brandi, are the parents of a daughter, Kerry Conner, a native of New Kaitlyn Camille. Iberia, enters his first year with the Brian Davis Louisiana Ragin Cajuns as co-head equipment manager after spending Senior Associate Director of the previous two years at in-state Athletic Training school Louisiana Tech. During his tenure in Ruston, Brian Davis joined the Universi- Conner served as the athletics equip- ty of Louisiana Athletic Training staff ment manager for the Bulldog in January 2008 and served as an football team where he supervised Assistant Director of Athletic Train- interns and student managers and worked with the football ing through the end of the 2010-11 coaching staff and administrators. Prior to his arrival in Ruston, athletic season. In July 2011, Davis Conner served as the head equipment manager at Nicholls State was named Associate Director of in Thibodaux from 2006-12 where he handled the responsibilities Athletic Training. for all of the Colonels’ 14 Division I athletic programs. A native of Bastrop, La., Davis Conner also served in the same capacity for Northwestern State served as an Assistant Athletic Trainer at Saint Leo University from 2004-06. He also served as a student manager for the Demons from 2005-07 prior to joining the UL staff. while in pursuit of his undergraduate degree from 2001 to 2004. He received his bachelor’s degree from Northwestern State While working towards his undergraduate degree, Conner University and obtained a master’s degree from Baylor University. spent two summers serving internships in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins in 2003 and the New Orleans Saints in 2004. Conner as- B.J. Duplantis sisted both organizations in preparation for and during training Associate Director of camp. Athletic Training Connor holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Northwestern State, graduating in 2003 from the University. B.J. Duplantis has served as an Conner is married to the former Marsiah Woods of Thibodaux, Associate Director of Athletic Train- and the couple has a son, Kerry Conner III. ing at the University of Louisiana since September 2007.

He is directly responsible for ew orleans bowl champions men’s basketball and assists in the care of football and track. A native of Chalmette, La., Du- plantis served as an athletic trainer at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital for four years (2003-07) prior to arriving at UL. Duplantis received his bachelor’s and master’s degree from Northwestern State University.

He is married to the former Ainsley Moreau. The couple 2011-2012-2013 N resides in Lafayette.

#geauxcajuns