Cowboys Catching On in Spring

Running game, receivers look solid as McNeese winds down spring camp with final scrimmage.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 7:54pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the raw energy and dynamic movements of a college football game, with players' faces and uniforms blending into a colorful, energetic composition.The Cowboys' high-octane offense and energetic defense have fans buzzing with excitement for the upcoming season.Lake Charles Today

McNeese State's football team wrapped up its spring camp with a final scrimmage, showcasing a strong running game led by returning players Tre'Vonte Citizen and Marquez Davis, as well as impressive performances from wide receivers Curtis Deville and Makhi Paris. Head coach Matt Viator expressed optimism about the team's progress on both offense and defense, with transfers Lee Holmes and Trace Meadows standing out at linebacker.

Why it matters

As McNeese State prepares for the upcoming season, a successful spring camp can set the tone for the team's performance and help build momentum heading into the fall. The Cowboys are looking to take the next step as an offense under second-year offensive coordinator Tyler Bolfiing, and the strong showing from the running game and wide receivers is a positive sign.

The details

The Cowboys' final spring scrimmage was shorter than expected, but coaches were still able to evaluate the team's progress. Quarterback Jake Strong returns as the starter, and the team is hoping for better production from the wide receiver corps, with Deville and Paris standing out. The running game, led by Citizen and Davis, along with transfer Omiri Wiggins, also looked solid. Defensively, transfers Holmes and Meadows have been impressive at linebacker, and the defensive line is also looking good.

  • The final spring scrimmage was held on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
  • The Cowboys will have one final practice on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, without pads and in shorts.
  • McNeese State will open the season with the first of three home games, starting with Stephen F. Austin on August 29, 2026.

The players

Matt Viator

The head coach of the McNeese State football team.

Jake Strong

The returning starting quarterback for the McNeese State Cowboys.

Tyler Bolfiing

The second-year offensive coordinator for the McNeese State Cowboys.

Curtis Deville

A wide receiver for the McNeese State Cowboys who had a strong spring camp.

Makhi Paris

A wide receiver for the McNeese State Cowboys who had a very good spring camp.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think it went good. I like the energy on defense, that was good. Hopefully, we can get back on the right track.”

— Matt Viator, Head Coach

“Curtis had a great spring. He has had a full offseason. He has been healthy.”

— Matt Viator, Head Coach

“Makhi also had a very good spring. He, too, has been healthy. We are excited for both of them.”

— Matt Viator, Head Coach

“We like that group. They all can do different things.”

— Matt Viator, Head Coach

What’s next

The Cowboys will take a break for spring break after their final practice on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, before returning to work in the weight room to prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

McNeese State's strong showing in the spring camp, particularly on offense with the running game and wide receivers, has the team feeling optimistic about their chances of taking the next step in the upcoming season. The Cowboys are looking to build on their progress and carry that momentum into the fall.