Football

Dunbar Bulldogs Revive Tradition with Run‑First Attack Ahead of 2026 Season

Coach Wes Johnson leans on a seasoned staff and a potent rushing attack to open the season against South Laurel

A Roster Steeped in Experience

The Bulldogs will field a lineup that blends youthful talent with the wisdom of alumni who have tasted deep playoff runs. Former quarterback Jake Smith, who guided the 2020 state‑semifinal run, now assists the coaching staff, while Dontell Brown, a 2016 basketball champion who also starred on the gridiron, and Isaiah Yeast, a two‑sport standout, bring versatility. Locke Loftus, another former Bulldog, rounds out the group with a track record of leadership.

At the heart of the strategy is a commitment to the run. In 2025 the team amassed more than 1,300 rushing yards, averaging 125 yards per game and scoring 12 touchdowns on the ground. Head coach Wes Johnson says the objective is to establish a dominant rushing attack that sets the tone for every snap.

The season opens on August 22 when Dunbar travels to Somerset High School to face South Laurel. The matchup marks the first test of a scheme that relies on relentless forward momentum. Players and coaches alike are eager to see how the new‑generation Bulldogs will respond to the increased workload.

Beyond the field, the program aims to mentor young athletes, using the experience of its alumni to shape future leaders. The community watches closely, hopeful that the ground‑first philosophy will restore the Bulldogs to their former glory.

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