Madison Prep and University High have developed a strong rivalry in District 6-3A that has seen each team win three times against the other in the past six seasons.
Last year, it was Madison Prep's turn to take the district crown after a Week 9 regular-season victory over U-High. The win was part of a successful season for the Chargers, who went on to reach the Division II select state semifinals.
“U-High is always our rival,” Madison Prep coach Landry Williams said. “We use each other to gauge how we perform in the district.”
The semifinals trip was the furthest Madison Prep had gone in the playoffs since winning the Class 3A state championship in 2020. The Chargers graduated All-State quarterback Tylan Johnson but have several key players back.
U-High looks to put last season in the past with a strong senior class led by five-star recruit and LSU commitment Lamar Brown. Projected to be a defensive lineman at the Division I level, Brown is a full-time offensive lineman at U-High who rotates in on defense.
“Lamar (Brown) is a special talent who is great on and off the field,” U-High coach Andy Martin said. “He’s the best defensive lineman in the nation but is going to anchor our offensive line. His leadership has the other guys bought in.”
U-High senior linebacker Lane Mixon returns after recording a team-high 81 tackles and five sacks last season. Junior safety Emmanuel Moses, the younger brother of LSU freshman Keylan Moses, is set to anchor the secondary alongside Navy commitment Erin Moore.
Running backs Corbin Odell and Sage Ingram return to lead U-High’s backfield, and Lawson Dixon projects as a go-to wide receiver after missing most of last season due to injury. Senior Ethan McGlynn is the new starting quarterback.
Junior Landon Johnson is set to step in at quarterback for Madison Prep, and Grambling State commitment Keyon Robinson is among the top returning skill players. The backfield will consist of juniors J’on Profit, Harlem Turner and Roy Hawkins.
Madison Prep returns a pair of three-year starters along the offensive line in twins Carnell and Darnell Smith. The secondary is anchored by Houston commitment Javen Hollins at safety, and the defensive line is led by senior Victor Hollins.
“Landon (Johnson) is a great athlete capable of playing multiple positions,” Williams said. “We have one of the biggest offensive lines and have high expectations for those guys. Javen (Holmes) is a strong safety but can play free safety, as well. He’s a force.”
There were multiple coaching changes throughout the district, as Parkview Baptist, Port Allen and Collegiate-BR enter 2025 with new head coaches.
West Feliciana head coach Devin Ducote coaches against Plaquemine, Friday, November 3, 2023, at West Feliciana High School in St. Francisville, La.
Parkview first-year coach Devin Ducoute is an Eagles alum who most recently served as West Feliciana’s head coach and was previously a Division I assistant.
Senior Logan Sorrel is a first-year starter at quarterback and is one of nine new starters on offense. The only returning starters are senior offensive linemen Jackson Loflin and Willie Williams.
Parkview returns linebackers Peyton Jenkins and John Lee on defense along with safety Grant Harrington, all juniors. Senior kicker and punter Gavin Higgins is a strength on special teams.
“It’s been a transitional summer with new schemes (on offense and defense),” Ducote said. “Logan (Sorrel) is physical and offers a run component. Marquise Franklin is a sophomore at running back that’s really tough and physical. We’re really excited.”
Port Allen promoted Antoine Washington to head coach after 14 seasons as defensive coordinator. The Pelicans are set to start multiple players on offense and defense, including senior Kaleb West at quarterback and safety.
“Our schedule shapes up for you to be tested for the postseason,” Washington said. “We’re working on building up depth.”
Glen Oaks and Mentorship are coming off three-win seasons. Both Glen Oaks coach Anthony Jones and Mentorship coach Ellis Spears are entering their third year with their programs.