HEALDTON BULLDOGS
Coach: BEN JUSTUS
3-7
OFFENSE
With a motivated roster and returning playmakers, the Healdton Bulldogs are set to take a big step forward in 2025. Head coach Ben Justus believes this group has the potential to surprise opponents every week. “This team has the potential to shock people. We are going to compete with everyone we play,” Justus said. That hunger for success could make Healdton one of the most dangerous under-the-radar teams in Class A. At the center of the offensive attack is standout running back Roo Franklin (6-1, 220, Sr.), who averaged an eye-popping 9.4 yards per carry last season. Franklin rushed for 800 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 85 carries while also adding 549 receiving yards and six more scores through the air. His versatility and explosiveness make him a constant threat to take it to the house on any given play. Joining him in the backfield is Devon Bivens (6-0, 200, Sr.), another tough runner who adds depth and power. Wide receiver Jaybin Keener (5-10, 140, Sr.) returns as a reliable target in the passing game, and the offensive line, led by Caleb Smith (6-3, 290, Sr.), Braden Stark (5-11, 270, Sr.), and DJ Mims (5-9, 215, Sr.), brings experience and toughness to the trenches. Freshman Brandt Rich is also expected to contribute early with his strength and physicality on both sides of the ball.
DEFENSE
Defensively, the Bulldogs bring a mix of experience, speed, and aggression. Bivens will anchor the middle as a physical, downhill linebacker, while Franklin will pull double duty at outside linebacker, using his athleticism to disrupt plays all over the field.
The Bulldogs’ defensive front is led by Smith and freshman Brandt Rich, who brings surprising strength and control at the line of scrimmage. Angel Vela (5-9, 165, Jr.) and Shane McGahan (5-10, 180, Sr.) round out a fast and physical linebacker corps. In the secondary, Keener returns at free safety and is joined by Heath Rico, an explosive athlete who flies to the football and adds another layer of versatility to the defense. With a chip on their shoulder and key playmakers returning, the Bulldogs are aiming to turn close games into wins and make a strong push this fall.
9-5 – vs. Walters
9-12 @ Marietta
9-19 – vs. Stratford
9-26 @ Wayne
10-3 – vs. Konowa
10-10 @ Rush Springs
10-16 – vs. Ringling
10-24 @ Velma-Alma
10-31 – vs. Elmore City-Pernell
11-7 @ Wilson
