Cowboys end spring on high note

Published 1:15 pm Saturday, April 12, 2025

In front of a decent-sized crowd, McNeese closed out its spring workouts Saturday morning with its annual scrimmage.

There was more offense in this, the last of 15 spring workouts. Tre’Vonte Citizen, who suffered through a rough season of injuries last year, scored three touchdowns to lead an impressive display from the running backs. 

Citizen, a Lake Charles Prep product who transferred after two years at Miami, scored on runs of seven, one, and 25 yards. Coleby Hamm and Jaylen Thompson also scored on the ground and had nice days for the offense.

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I think T.C. was jumping at the bit to kind of get out here and get something done,” McNeese head coach Matt Viator said. “It was good to see him run today. I like that he ran with a little authority, too.”

Thompson got the most carries, and the 5-foot-11, 200-pounder could add a new dimension and depth to the backfield. 

“We wanted to see him (Thompson) get some time with the ones and twos today and get him some reps,” said Viator. “Overall, I’m pleased with the running backs. I know about Bryce Strong, and I’m really pleased with Coleby Hamm.”

If Thompson turned some heads at running back, Devin Lippold opened some eyes at quarterback. While Jack Strong and Alex Flores continue to be the front runners for the starting job, Lippold had a nice day himself Saturday. 

According to Viator, the 6-foot-3, 241-pound redshirt freshman still needs to get in better shape. However, he made the most of his time with the ones and twos, as he got his first extended look in a scrimmage.

“Jake is exactly who we thought Jake was, and I have been really, really impressed with Alex Flores,” said Viator. “I have been impressed with Alex’s attitude and his desire to learn the offense and do all the things we want to do.”

Viator said the freshman has a lot to work with in terms of his skills.

“I think that Devin Lippold has talent,” said Viator. “Devin’s a young man that can get on top of it and throw it, so I think he’s got a chance.

“Lippold played in the last four games a year ago, but mostly ran the football around the goal line.”

The defense still looks ahead of the offense, which is expected. The defense returns a big portion of the front seven, including on the line, where Masey Lewis and Phillip Brandford have had really strong camps.

They also kept their defensive coordinator and game plan, but lately, the offense has come on to make big plays, even if the consistency isn’t there yet.

“We have made progress,” said Viator. “I have been happy with how the kids have worked every day and tried to learn.”

Now, McNeese coaches will go back into meetings and figure out what they have and what they still need. The transfer portal will once again open soon, so the Cowboys can expect to do some selective shopping.

The players will prepare for what is expected to be a very important summer of workouts before fall camp begins.