With only four players, the MUD DOGS tired late on Sunday against NORTHSIDE INFANTRY, but pushed through, grinding out a 15-6 win. 

Quarterback Bryan Thomas said the team knew it would be tough to win given the circumstances, but when the time came, they performed well.

“We were two men short today, so we all knew we had to step up and get it done,” Thomas said. “I think it’s one of the best games we’ve played all season, actually.”

Just last fall, the members of the MUD DOGS had never met. They first heard from one another through a group text and decided to play flag football, competing in the Turkey Bowl in November. The team is a collection of friends and distant relatives, and it was a very informal beginning for the group.

Most of the players on the team played high school football when they were younger, although the team does have one collegiate athlete as well in Brandon Hill. Hill leads the team in multiple statistical categories, and his experience at Bethany College shows on the field. When running the ball, he easily shakes defenders and is tied for third in the PFFL in rushing touchdowns with three.

The team enjoys getting out on the field again, as it brings them back to their high school days. One of the reasons they first joined the league was so that they could have the chance to do what they love.

“[My favorite part of being in the PFFL is] being able to play football again,” wide receiver Scott Herchelroath said. “I could play college football right now, [but] I’m 24 years old. That’s going to be tough on my body.”

In the end, the MUD DOGS are just a group of guys who like to hang out and keep busy.

“It just gives you something to do, and it’s competitive,” Thomas said.