Dunbar adds to its trophy case

Dunbar closed a chapter in its storied football history, holding aloft another state title trophy.

The Poets' punishing ground game coupled an effective passing attack capitalized on New Town's turnovers for a 39-0 state final victory at M&T Bank Stadium on Saturday. Dunbar's third straight title comes in its final year as a Class 1A program - at least for two years.

In 12 years on the Class 1A level, Dunbar made 11 playoff appearances, reaching the state semifinals 10 times, winning seven titles. The Poets' dominance really kicked in starting with the 2003 season when the MPSSAA went to the regional playoff format. Dunbar has won all 10 Class 1A South region titles (a run of 20-0 in regional postseason play) and all seven titles came during that run. Since joining Class 1A, Dunbar went 34-4 in postseason games.

MOVING UP:

The competition will be deeper in Class 2A neat year, yet Dunbar is expected to remain in the title hunt. Junior running back Coleman Blackston rushed for 130 yards on 18 carries, almost all of it in the first half. Junior quarterback William Crest went 10 of 14 for 140 yards and two touchdowns. Junior receiver Eddie Nelson had three catches for 35 yards and a score.

STILL WAITING:

New Town, from Baltimore County, was aiming to become the first Baltimore County 1A champion since Hereford in 1997.