SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — The Waskom Wildcats have won 18 games over the past two seasons, reaching the regional semifinals in 2024 before falling in the second round last year. Now, year-three under head coach Wade Lawson brings a new challenge. The Wildcats must replace District 10-2A Offensive MVP Chris Hernandez, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards a season ago. "If you're going to play quarterback for me, you've got to be a good leader. I mean you just do, and leadership doesn't necessarily mean you're a real talkative guy or this or that. You've got to lead by action in what you do every day and we've got three kids that have really stepped up," Lawson said. Those competing for the spot include Blake Looper, Cason Haggard and Greyson Gillard. "I don't think any of the three missed a summer workout, and that just says a lot. All of them are younger guys. All of them are going to have an opportunity, and I really like what I've seen in all three of them," Lawson said. Even with key losses offensively, Waskom returns plenty of firepower. Senior running back Montez Thompson is back after earning First Team All-District honors.
Espy overcomes broken jaw to lead Waskom to playoff win; named Player of the Week Defensively, experience may be this team's biggest strength. Linebackers Wesley Dees and Maddox Ducote headline a unit loaded with talent, while Julius Wash leads an experienced secondary, bringing a tough identity to this football team. "Effort is everything, you know, I think when they watch us play, they're gonna realize that we're willing to give more effort than the guys across there, it's that simple. We're gonna coach them that way. We're not going to accept it any other way, and that's gonna win us a lot of football games," Lawson said. Lawson and the Wildcats open the season at home against Arp. Kick-off is set for 7:30 on Friday, August 28. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.