Despite a 4-5 record and an injury-plagued season, Chase County still reached the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year and enters 2026 with plenty of optimism.
Head coach Derick Budke’s squad battled through a long list of injuries in 2025, but those setbacks also created opportunities. Numerous underclassmen were forced into larger roles, giving the Bulldogs valuable experience and building depth heading into the 2026 campaign.
Two of the biggest returning pieces are Austin Anderson and Maddox Beyer, whose seasons were cut short by injury a year ago. Both are expected to be impact players on both sides of the ball, with Anderson leading the way at running back and Beyer providing a big-play threat at wide receiver.
One of the biggest storylines entering the season is at quarterback, where Vincent Hodges, Dominique Barrett and Clark Miller are all competing for the starting job.
With a healthier roster and plenty of experienced players returning, the Bulldogs are optimistic about making another postseason run.
Chase County opens the 2026 season at home on Sept. 4 against Oxford.
