Change is more than a theme for the Safford Bulldogs this fall—it’s the mission.
With the arrival of first-year head coach Ishmael MacNeil, the Bulldogs are entering the 2025 season under new leadership, new systems and a renewed commitment to tough, physical football. MacNeil, who spent the last three years leading Wickenburg, takes over a Safford team looking to shake off a 4–6 season and reestablish its identity in a competitive region.
“The team has high expectations this season,” MacNeil said. “We are looking to turnaround the program by playing tough, hard-nose football.”
That mentality is more than talk. The new staff, which includes offensive coordinator Addin Soto, defensive coordinator Leland Warren and special teams coordinator Hunter Cochran, has implemented an attacking defensive scheme and a spread offense built to get the ball in the hands of playmakers. The plan is to compete in every game—and to make sure opponents feel it the next morning.
“No matter win or lose we want teams to wake up on Saturdays sore and know that the Bulldogs are going to play hard and to the whistle no matter the score,” MacNeil said.
While the mindset may be shifting, the roster is largely unproven. Safford graduated the majority of its 2024 production, returning just a fraction of its total yardage and defensive tackles. But there are pieces in place.
Senior quarterback Jevyn Elliott returns from an injury-shortened junior year in which he threw for 788 yards and eight touchdowns in just five games, completing 75 percent of his passes. He’ll be backed by a receiving corps that MacNeil considers the offense’s biggest strength.
“Every one of them is a threat to score,” he said.
Junior Dane Jacobson and senior Lamarr Ellis are expected to take on featured roles at receiver after contributing in limited action last season. Elliott’s leadership and accuracy, paired with a faster tempo and expanded route tree, could allow this group to stretch the field more consistently than in years past.
At running back, senior Adrien “Pops” Casillas will be a key two-way player. He’ll shoulder the rushing load on offense and anchor the edge at outside linebacker on defense, where he finished with 51 total tackles last year. Sophomore Trae Gaines is expected to make an impact as a full-time starter at defensive end after flashing promise as a freshman.
Still, questions remain—especially up front. The offensive line is young and largely unsettled heading into Week 1.
“Lots of new faces and guys still battling it out for starting roles,” MacNeil admitted.
With so much turnover, one of the early wins has come not on the scoreboard, but in the locker room. The Bulldogs are beginning to reflect the kind of culture the new staff is trying to build.
“The team has bought into having a positive culture amongst each other,” MacNeil said. “They are working hard and pushing each other.”
The Bulldogs will open the season on Aug. 22 at Morenci, a team they edged by a single point last year. The schedule doesn’t let up from there, but MacNeil isn’t concerned.
“Our entire schedule is tough, but we are ready for the challenge,” he said. “Morenci is our opener and that will be a big game to open the season.”
For fans expecting more of the same, MacNeil made it clear—this team will look different.
“Come out and support your Bulldogs,” he said. “It’s going to be a different product on Friday nights than it’s been in the past. We are excited and ready for this year.”
