LEROY - This week, the North Vermilion Patriots were on the field, going through drills and walking through plays both offensively and defensively as they prepare themselves mentally and physically for a scrimmage this Thursday at home against Rayne. The scrimmage begins at 6 p.m.

Tommy Byler, head coach for the Patriots, said that the team was making progress.

Watching the team run through the drills, one can see a team coming together defensively, while Byler looks on at the team’s growth.

On offense, the team is still working to mesh together, but the potential is there. The team has little time left before the scrimmage on Thursday, but their ultimate goal is to be ready for the opening game of the season against Vermilion Catholic, a team the Patriots are seeking revenge from after a loss early last year.

North Vermilion returns five on offense, including senior quarterback Joe Duhon (5-11, 205, Sr.) and halfback Trey Broussard (5-10, 200, Jr.).

Broussard also returns as the Patriots’ punter and kicker.

The Patriots are expected to be solid on defense thanks to having seven returning starters.

Patriot free safety Kenny Johnson will anchor the defense once again this year. He led the Patriots with 75 solo tackles and 40 assists. He also had seven interceptions in 2011.

Duhon will play cornerback, while Riley Maturin (5-10, 165, Sr.) is back at linebacker.

North Vermilion will play in the Erath Jamboree next Friday. They will join Abbeville, Kaplan and Erath in the jamboree.

Tickets for the jamboree games are being sold at their high schools. The money from the tickets purchased at the school stays at the school.