Mission Bulldogs open season 2-0 with grit and big plays

The Mission Bulldogs are off to a 2-0 start after gritty wins over Charlo and Arlee, mixing explosive plays from their veterans with timely contributions from younger players.

Mission opened the season with a decisive 50-22 victory over Charlo. Quarterback Vinny Shepard powered the Bulldogs’ passing game, throwing for over 200 yards and three touchdowns, while standout receiver Lex LaFrombois hauled in six receptions for 184 yards and three scores. 

Running back Ryan Sharbono added 178 rushing yards and a touchdown on 16 carries, giving Mission balance on the ground. Defensively, Milo Crooks led with four solo tackles, two sacks, and a tackle for a loss, while LaFrombois showcased his all-around ability with an interception and a fumble recovery.

The Bulldogs carried that momentum into last week’s rivalry showdown against Arlee, escaping with a nail-biting 20-18 win. Mission struck early but found themselves in a back-and-forth battle as Arlee matched their intensity. Shepard connected with Sharbono for a 14-yard touchdown, then added a two-point conversion to LaFrombois. Sharbono also punched in a nine-yard rushing score late to secure the victory.

“It feels like we have some work to do,” Petersen said. “We didn't feel like we played the best we could, but they continued to respond and keep their head in the game. I was very impressed with Arlee's toughness.” 

LaFrombois once again proved invaluable, amassing 263 all-purpose yards. He had one touchdown called back —one on a 70-yard punt return and another on a 20-yard reception—while also returning an interception over 60 yards to end the first half.

“Our studs, are studs but we can't always lean on them and expect to win games with just that,” Petersen said. “Our young kids have stepped up every time we have needed them and kept us alive on numerous occasions.” 

Mack McDonald was everywhere against Arlee, tallying 4 solo tackles, 4 assists, 4 pass deflections, and an interception. Dakota Zeiler brought pressure up front with 6 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. Sharbono added 7 total tackles, while Mason Evans and Kyle Hammond chipped in 6 each. Leelyn Shepherd and LaFrombois both had interceptions. Joseph Cronk recovered a fumble to round out Mission’s takeaways.

Offensively, quarterback Shepard threw for 2 touchdowns and 68 yards while also adding 13 rushing yards. Sharbono carried the load on the ground, racking up 111 rushing yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. He also caught 3 passes for 30 yards. LaFrombois was the top target in the passing game with 7 receptions for 68 yards.

With two wins already under their belt, Mission has played games where they fly past opponents with firepower and grind out close contests.

    Bulldog Macklen McDonald breaks up a pass during last week's game against the Arlee Warriors. (Christa Umphrey photo)