Petrino Gives Louisiana Quarterback Something to Think About

Razorbacks are finding footing again in north Louisiana, which are apparently a big focus

Author:
Jacob Davis
Updated:
Jan 27, 2024 2:28 PM EST
Original:
Jan 27, 2024

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Evangel Christian in Shreveport, Louisiana has been a hotbed for talent for decades. While north Louisiana hasn’t been a huge point of emphasis during the Sam Pittman era, Arkansas has renewed a focus for players above Interstate 20.

Class of 2027 quarterback Peyton Houston has emerged as the top prospect at the position for the cycle. He is a dual-threat quarterback with high goals and expectations for himself. The return of Bobby Petrino as offensive coordinator at Arkansas means recruiting interest of high school quarterbacks just turned up a notch. Since arriving to Fayetteville in November, Petrino has done nothing but hit the trail across the country in search of game-changing prospects.

While 2027 seems far off, it is a short time in the recruiting world. College programs try to slide into schools across the country early these days.

Obviously, Petrino will always be a big hit for young quarterbacks looking for a chance at the next level. An Arkansas offer gives Houston hope of joining a successful list of passers.

“It would be a huge opportunity to play for a coach who produced a Heisman winner, league MVP, and an All-SEC quarterback,” Houston said.

Houston plans to make a visit to Fayetteville at some point, but said he hears the area is beautiful. Speaking of scenery, Houston transferred across town from Calvary Baptist to football factory Evangel Christian in September 2023.

“It’s been amazing,” Houston said. “The school has brought me closer to God. When they say it’s a family there, it really is.”

Former Arkansas coach Chad Morris tries to have his voice heard on the sideline during the tumultuous 2019 season that led to his firing.

As one of the premier school’s in the state, the 5-11, 170 pound passer sees Evangel dominating Louisiana football the remainder of his prep career.

“My goals throughout high school is to win state, and to break every Louisiana passing record,” Houston said.

He views himself as a pocket passer with the ability to use his legs when needed, similar to Texans’ quarterback CJ Stroud. The former Ohio State star also relies on his faith ‘through thick and thin’ which helped him find solid footing in the NFL.

“I love [Stroud’s] approach and attitude to the game,” Houston said.

One unique fact about Houston is former LSU star linebacker Devin White played a crucial role in his desire to be a college athlete.

“Devin is my godbrother,” Houston said. “I grew up going around the country with him while he was being recruited.”