It’s opening night at Naranche Stadium, and the Mining City is buzzing for another season of Bulldog football.
Arie Grey begins his 18th year leading Butte High, bringing the same steady hand that’s guided the program for nearly two decades. Tonight, his Bulldogs open against a tough draw — the Gallatin Raptors, last year’s Class AA state runners-up.
For Butte, the story starts under center. Senior Brooks Vincent takes the reins at quarterback, stepping into the spotlight after waiting his turn. Vincent’s athleticism and poise give the Bulldogs a fresh look, and he’ll lean on one of the state’s top playmakers in Hudson Luedtke, along with a line built to battle in the trenches. On defense, Mitch Verlanic headlines a unit that prides itself on speed and physicality.
Gallatin makes the trip from Bozeman as a program that’s gone from brand new to championship-caliber in a matter of seasons. The Raptors played their way into the title game a year ago, falling just short, and they return plenty of talent and confidence. They won’t be fazed by a road opener in front of the Naranche crowd.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. under the lights. It’s a non-conference matchup, but it carries plenty of weight for both sides. For Grey and the Bulldogs, it’s about setting a tone with a new quarterback and proving Butte can run with one of the state’s best right out of the gate.
