The Bulldogs Are Back in Motion

The latest images coming out of Orangeburg tell the story before a whistle is even blown: South Carolina State football is locked in, lined up, and ready for another championship chase. From the full team photo inside Oliver C. Dawson Stadium to coaches and players standing proudly on Willie E. Jeffries Field, there is a clear message in the air — Bulldog football is moving with purpose.

SC State enters the 2026 season with major momentum. The Bulldogs are the defending MEAC champions, ranked No. 24, and are set for seven national television appearances this season. The spotlight is getting brighter, and Bulldog Nation will have plenty of chances to see the Garnet and Blue on a national stage. The season opens August 29 against Savannah State at 6 p.m. on ESPN+, followed by the Orange Blossom Classic against Florida A&M on September 6 in Miami Gardens.

The respect is already showing. SC State was picked No. 1 in the MEAC preseason poll, and 13 Bulldogs earned preseason All-MEAC honors. Linebacker Jordan Franklin was also named MEAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, giving Bulldog fans even more reason to believe this team is built for another serious run.

The home schedule is also bringing energy back to Oliver C. Dawson Stadium. SC State Athletics announced official 2026 game-day themes and fan colors, beginning with a White Out for the Savannah State opener, which will also recognize Hall of Fame Day and Faculty & Staff Appreciation Day.

Barry McFadden: Mentorship, Brotherhood, and Unexpected Paths

Barry McFadden represents the type of story The Bulldog Wire was created to preserve — a story of leadership, mentorship, athletics, education, and community service. As a coach and educator, McFadden has helped shape young people both on and off the court, showing how discipline, character, and purpose can leave a lasting impact.

His journey is a reminder that the Bulldog spirit is not only about where you started, but how you continue to serve, lead, and pour into the next generation.

SC State 2026 Hall of Fame Class to be Enshrined

South Carolina State will welcome fifteen new members into its Athletics Hall of Fame this football season — the third-largest class in school history. The 2026 class includes four individuals being honored posthumously, and will be recognized during a campus ceremony on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, followed by halftime honors at the Aug. 29 season opener against Savannah State.

The football contingent includes John Courtney (DL, 1978–1982), Leonard Duncan (DB/KR, 1973–1976), Charles Glaze (QB, 1983–1986), Tyler McDonald (WR, 2010–2013), Walter Mitchell (DL, 1965–1969), Damien Moses (DL, 1988–1992), Chris Ragland (RB, 1976–1980), and Robert “Mickey” Sims (DL, 1973–1976). Duncan, Moses, and Sims will be inducted posthumously.

Also being enshrined are basketball standouts Bernard Bowman (G, 1984–1988) and Ralph Miller (G, 1982–1985), along with Maria Craciun (tennis, 2010–2013), Charles “Chuck” Gadsden (baseball, 1970–1972), Douglas Grier (golf, 1974–1978), John Hinson (track & field, 1978–1982), and James H. Salley, longtime PA announcer and TV show host (1980–1990/1994–present). Grier will be enshrined posthumously.