Stats tell the tale in a defensive standoff at Bulldogs Stadium where the Burlington Bombers defeated the Bulldogs 13-6 in Pre-Season Week 3. The Bombers’ winning margin came primarily from a dominant ground attack that accounted for 159 rushing yards on 40 carries, overshadowing their modest passing total of 99 yards with just one touchdown through the air. Despite throwing three interceptions, the Bombers' defense helped keep the Bulldogs off the scoreboard except for two field goals.

Burlington’s early advantage was established quickly. On the opening drive, quarterback Benjamin Massey connected with Edward Garrett for a 3-yard touchdown. Garrett's ability to create separation and haul in the score highlighted his dual-threat capacity, as he ended the day with 63 rushing yards and an additional 22 receiving yards. The extra point by Robert Johnson was good, setting the pace for a close contest.

The Bulldogs struggled to find offensive rhythm, completing 21 passes for 139 yards without scoring a touchdown. Quarterback Matthew Huneycutt threw three interceptions, which certainly hampered his team’s scoring chances. Defensively, the Bulldogs performed more effectively with three interceptions themselves and two sacks, but they could only muster two field goals from kicker Matthew Searle.

In terms of special teams, both kickers played pivotal roles; Johnson made two field goals including a crucial 23-yarder in the third quarter, while Searle converted both his attempts from 47 and 49 yards. Johnson narrowly missed a 56-yard attempt wide right just before halftime, highlighting both range and room for improvement.

The Bombers' running game was the clear efficiency leader. Their 159 yards on the ground, combined with a strong defensive showing with three sacks and one interception, offset a lack of third-down conversions, where neither team recorded a successful effort. Coach William McClure’s squad also maintained discipline relatively well, though they were flagged six times for 38 yards, more than doubling the Bulldogs’ 17 penalty yards.

A key moment came late in the first quarter when Robert Higgins intercepted a pass deep in Bombers territory, helping to prevent Bulldog advances early on. Another interception by Mickey Morris in the third quarter further prevented Bulldog momentum.

Despite an interception by QB Jose Hager in limited passing attempts, the Bombers leaned heavily on their ground game for steady advancement and time control, allowing their defense to dictate the tempo. This combination was enough to keep the Bulldogs from reaching the end zone, marking yet another game where red zone efficiency remained an issue for both sides.

Owner IoanBlood said, “The way Edward Garrett broke free for that early touchdown was the spark we needed. Even with all the interceptions, sticking to our run game and letting our defense hold was the winning formula today.”

As the preseason progresses, this game serves as a promising indicator that Coach McClure’s program is emphasizing physicality and ball control, key traits to work on before the regular season unfolds.