Football Game Preview: Byrd Yellow Jackets vs. Natchitoches Central Chiefs

The Byrd Yellow Jackets are taking a road trip to take on the Natchitoches Central Chiefs at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Byrd has given up an average of 35.7 points per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

On Thursday, Byrd was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap as they fell 34-28 to Huntington. The Yellow Jackets have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Despite the loss, Byrd had strong showings from Christian Maxie, who rushed for 164 yards and a pair of TDs on only 14 carries, and Collin Deere, who rushed for 154 yards and two scores. The bulk of those rushing yards came from one huge play: a run that gained an incredible 86 yards. Eli Stephens also deserves some recognition as he rushed for his first rushing yards of the season.

Meanwhile, the third road matchup was the charm for Natchitoches Central, as they earned their first away victory of the season. In a tight contest that could have gone either way, they made off with a 34-33 win over Opelousas. Those 34 points were actually the fewest the Chiefs have put up all season, but given the result they're probably not too concerned.

Byrd's defeat dropped their record down to 1-5. As for Natchitoches Central, their victory ended a six-game drought on the road dating back to last season and puts them at 3-3.

Byrd was able to grind out a solid win over Natchitoches Central in their previous matchup back in October of 2024, winning 31-21. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Yellow Jackets since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.