Over the past couple of years, the Hazard Bulldogs’ football team had been inching closer to a state Class A title, and finally last season, they accomplished the goal. This season will be a little tough as it is always more difficult to defend a title as everyone is focused on you.
The Bulldogs lost nearly all of their experienced players off their offensive and defensive lines, and will be looking for some of their younger players to step up. However, Hazard will be returning a number of skill players to the lineup.
Hazard will return Evan Whitaker at the quarterback position. Whitaker will have several dangerous targets returning. Receivers Austin Johnson, Jordan Olinger and Nathan Higgins will cause major problems for opposing teams’ secondary.
Things will not get any easier for opposing lines either, as the Bulldogs will have a pair of strong running backs returning. Defenses will have a hard time bringing down Hazard’s Brandon Jones and Josh Meehan, who have both proven themselves to be strong and durable runners. Evan Whitaker has also caused some problems for defenses running the ball.
Once again, Hazard will have but nine games on their regular season schedule. However, the Bulldogs will go on the road to take on Somerset and Lexington Christian. They will host a pair of strong teams in Breathitt County and Prestonsburg.
Look for the Bulldogs to make a strong run through the playoffs this season, with their state title hopes hanging on how well their offensive and defensive lines progress throughout the regular season.













