The Quitman Bulldogs’ offense was shut down by a tough Union Grove defense as the Bulldogs fell to the Lions 20-6. The loss dropped Quitman to 1-1 on the season, while Union Grove improved to 2-0.
The Bulldogs played well defensively, holding prolific Union Grove running back Hudson Wightman to 84 yards on 13 carries.
“On defense, we held our own and getting the blocked punt was big for us and we had some big hits on their quarterback. We did not do a good job of capitalizing on opportunities we were given. Honestly, there just weren’t that many positives, but this team will fight back and be ready for Clarksville. This team is close and they go out there and play for each other,” head coach Shane Webber said.
Webber said the linebackers had a good game and the running backs played well at times. Quarterback Logan Davis also turned in a solid performance, while a couple of young defenders stepped up.
“I think the heat got to us more than we anticipated. Defensively, we did make some good stops. We had them third and long or fourth and short and were not able to close them out,” Webber said.
Webber said the Bulldogs have to do a better job of finishing those defensive stops.
“We have to find ways to get off the field on defense and let our offense back on the field. Halfway through the third quarter it’s only 14-6 and we are right where we need to be, and then we gave up two big gains and they go up 20-6. The kids played hard and they never quit battling and that’s a positive we can take away from the game. Offensively, we are still getting in our own way when it comes to creating scoring opportunities,” Webber said.
Webber also gave credit to Union Grove.
“Credit Coach Adams and his team. They are a very good football team who did an excellent job defensively against us,” Webber said.
Davis completed 4 of 7 passes for 112 yards and showed the toughness the Bulldogs will need when district play begins.
Webber expects Clarksville to provide another challenge.
“They are very athletic and the quarterback has some talented receivers. They have been running a flex-bone on offense with a lot of motions. They sometimes run a read/option on offense. They do a lot of good stuff on offense. They have good numbers on their varsity, around 35. They have those numbers because they don’t have a junior varsity. They do a good job at rotating their kids in and out to keep them fresh in this heat. They have a good program over there and they were a playoff team last year,” Webber said.
Clarksville brings a 1-1 record to Quitman after defeating Boles 48-30. The Blue Tigers opened the season with a 43-10 loss to Whitewright.
Clarksville players to watch include sophomore quarterback Santanna Beaty, No. 8, and wide receiver and cornerback Jordan Daniels, No. 0. Semaj Harris, No. 2, is a threat to score from anywhere at running back and is also an active linebacker capable of making big plays.
Quitman will host Clarksville on Friday for Homecoming 2026. Before the crowning of the homecoming queen, a special group will be honored beginning at 6:45 p.m.
The 1986 Bulldogs, one of only two Quitman teams to go undefeated in district play, will be recognized. The team went unbeaten through the regular season and advanced to the third round of the state playoffs before finishing with a 12-1 record.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the homecoming festivities. The Homecoming 2026 pep rally will be held Friday afternoon on the north side of the courthouse square immediately following the parade, which starts at 2 p.m. from the high school.