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The Bismarck Lions enter the 2026 high school football season with high expectations after several years of success and another experienced offense returning to the field.
Bismarck has posted double-digit wins in each of the last three seasons, finishing with 10 victories in 2023, 13 in 2024 and 11 last season. The Lions advanced to the Class 3A state championship game in 2024 before falling to Salem.
The program has also dominated the 3A-7 Conference, winning back-to-back league titles. Last season, Bismarck’s only losses came against eventual Class 3A state champion Mansfield, including defeats in the season opener and the state quarterfinals.
Salem and Bismarck both seeking first state grid championship in Class 3A final
The Lions return a high-powered offense that averaged 47 points per game last season, and head coach D.J. Keithley believes the unit could be even more dangerous this year.
“Offensively we’re going to be as dangerous or more so than we’ve ever been,” Keithley said. “I’ve got probably one of the most elusive quarterbacks in the state. We’re going to put that ball in his hands every play, and this year he’s gotten that much better as a passer.”
Keithley said the Lions also return standout running back Clayton Martinez, along with several speedy playmakers who can create opportunities across the field.
“Offensively I feel really good about coming back,” Keithley said. “We want to get back to that state championship game.”
While Keithley said there are still questions to answer on defense, the Lions believe their returning offensive firepower can help fuel another deep postseason run and a push for a state championship.
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