by Journal Sports
Avoyelles at Marksville
Game Date: September 5, 2025
The Avoyelles Mustangs (5-6 overall from 2024) will travel to face the Marksville Tigers (5-6 overall from 2024) in what promises to be an intriguing district matchup between two programs looking to bounce back from disappointing 2024 seasons. Both teams finished with identical records last year and are eager to establish early momentum in the 2025 campaign.
Avoyelles has historically been known for their explosive rushing offense, with the program leading the state in rushing yards in recent seasons with over 6,000 yards on the ground. The Mustangs’ traditional double-wing offense and aggressive philosophy of never punting has made them one of the most unique programs in Louisiana. Under their previous coaching regime, the team’s willingness to go for two-point conversions after every touchdown and onside kick after every score set them apart from conventional approaches.
Marksville enters the season under head coach Josh Harper, who brings experience with a 48-37 overall coaching record from his previous stop at Sacred Heart of Ville Platte. The Tigers will be looking to improve on their recent struggles and establish a new identity under Harper’s leadership. Key returning players include wide receiver Eldrick Murray, who recorded 318 yards receiving last season, and quarterback D. Lavalais who threw for 67 yards.
These two programs have a history of competitive matchups, with both teams drawing strong fan support – their previous meeting attracted over 800 fans. Both schools are part of the Avoyelles Parish School District, adding extra significance to this early-season clash.
Bunkie vs. St. Mary’s
Game Date: September 5, 2025
The Bunkie Panthers enter 2025 coming off an impressive 10-0 regular season record and a perfect 5-0 district mark that earned them the District 2-3A championship. They’ll host the St. Mary’s Tigers from Natchitoches in what should be a significant test for both programs.
Bunkie dominated St. Mary’s in their previous meeting, winning convincingly 39-6, and will look to continue that success. Under head coach Jimmie Hillman, the Panthers have developed into one of central Louisiana’s most formidable programs, with 15 total starters returning from their successful 2022 campaign.
The Panthers boast one of the area’s top players in Kyle Johnson, a junior dual-threat star who recorded 12 touchdowns on 43 touches along with six receptions. Johnson will work alongside quarterback Dillion Compton, who threw for eight touchdowns last season. The ground game should be anchored by experienced backs who have proven capable of controlling games.
The St. Mary’s Tigers will be looking to prove they can compete against one of the state’s rising programs.
This non-district matchup gives both teams a chance to build momentum before diving into conference play. Bunkie finished with 458 points scored versus just 51 points allowed last season, demonstrating their dominance on both sides of the ball. The Panthers will be favorites, but St. Mary’s will be motivated to pull off an early-season upset.