By Kyle Roberts
Following a standout career on the defensive line for the Ruston Bearcats, senior defensive tackle Christian Davis chose to head just a few parishes away to play for former Ruston head coach Brad Laird at Northwestern State University.
“I love Coach Laird,” Davis said after signing Wednesday. “He’s a lot like Coach Baugh, so I felt like I was at home. There’s going to be a lot of working going into playing at college. I’m going to be striving for my best.”
Ruston defensive coordinator Kyle Williams spoke about how much Davis has grown playing football for the Bearcats in the last three seasons.
“I think he’s been a obviously a great player this year for us,” Williams said. “I think for him it’s a testament to him how much he’s grown and matured and put himself in position to be able to do what he’s doing today. He always knew that he had that kind of skill set when he was young, but it doesn’t always pan out that way. So it’s really a testament to all his hard work and get out there and getting after it. I’m really happy for him.”
Davis starred on the d-line since his sophomore season, but this year he spent the majority of snaps at the defensive tackle position.
“He was really willing to do whatever we needed him to do,” Williams added. “Not all kids are like that now. He was just a really good teammate, and I’m glad he’s getting the benefits for all of that now.”
When Davis was asked about starring for Ruston for three years, he was quick to praise the program and the school.
“It feels good to have been part of this team,” Davis said. “This program is really alive. It’s a family, honestly. You see everybody here today; we all know each other. That’s what goes into it. It’s like being at home.”
Davis finished with 76 total tackles, nine sacks and an interception and anchored a Ruston defensive front that made its first state championship appearance in 24 years.
