United Under One Banner

The rapidly disappearing sun cast long shadows across the field on this brisk spring day, Saturday, April 7th at Civic Field.

A perfect day to showcase the long awaited partnership between the two Bellingham football squads, the Blitz and the Bulldogs. This united football front was spearheaded by owner and co-head coach of the Bulldogs, Phil Smith. He recruited the talents of fellow coach and former head coach of the champions Bellingham Blitz and Whatcom Raiders, Brian Young to lead the offense of this football cooperative. This game could prove be to be a glimpse of the greatness these two field generals can accomplish in the 2012 season. The Bellingham Bulldogs opened the 2012 Pacific Football League season squaring off against a familiar foe, the Renton Ravens.

The Bulldog offense started hot, taking the opening drive down for a touchdown with a mixed running attack from their backfield. After a turnover in the Ravens' redzone the Bulldogs turned the change of possession into a quick strike, a 40 yard-run for a touchdown. Following the score the Bulldogs surprise the Ravens with an on-sides kick recovery. The Dogs marched down the field once again but the offense stalled. A strip fumble recovery for a touchdown by a swarming Dogs defense set the tone for the rest of the game.

The Ravens offense struggled to keep a consistent rhythm under the constant pressure of Phil Smith's relentless defense. This allowed the Dogs offense to open up and push the pedal to the floor. Striking from the air on the arms of quarterbacks Cody Oakes and Leon Lilley as they split quarterback duties between halves. The Bulldogs made a statement to the rest of the PFL and showed Bellingham that a united football club is twice as determined for greatness. Final score 50-0. Click here to view photos form the game.