Bears knock off Russellville in opener, 34-13

Mon, 08/22/2022 - 12:28pm — Steve Lemaster

MORGANTOWN — Butler County managed to pull away to beat visiting Russellville 34-13 in a high school football season opener on Thursday, Aug. 18.

The Bears defeated Russellville, which finished runner-up to Pikeville in Class 1A in 2021, convincingly.

Butler County forced Russellville to play from behind, scoring first and never trailing. The Bears led 21-0 before Russellville answered.

Butler County carried a 14-0 lead out of the first quarter. After each team reached the endzone once in the second period, Butler County led 21-7 at halftime.

The Bears remained in control throughout the second half, leading 27-7 at the conclusion of the third quarter.

Butler County thrived on the ground, rushing 44 times for 304 yards and four touchdowns.

Colton Dunnells led Butler County offensively, rushing 18 times for 118 yards and two touchdowns.

Behind Dunnells in rushing for the Bears, Body Hunt took 11 carries for 82 yards and one touchdown.

Contributing to Butler County's rushing attack, Gage Beasley gained 45 yards via three carries.

Quarterback Garrett Phelps added one rushing touchdown for the Bears.

Delivering through the air, Phelps completed three of six passes for 98 yards and one touchdown.

Keagen Grubb, Kyle Chambers and Luke Laughing each hauled in one reception for the Bears. Chambers' catch went for a 31-yard touchdown.

Logan Hargrove paced Butler County defensively, recording eight tackles, one tackle for a loss and two sacks.

Leading Butler County in another key defensive category, Hunt recorded two interceptions.

The Bears are scheduled to visit longtime rival Edmonson County on Friday, Aug. 26. Kickoff for the Butler County-Edmonson County football game is set for 7 p.m. in Brownsville.

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