Texas High School Football Season Kicks Off in Style
As excitement builds across Texas, the 2024 high school football season has finally arrived. The kickoff for the UIL season begins this Thursday, with nearly 1,500 games lined up throughout the weekend. While some teams, including the powerhouse Duncanville, will start their seasons next week, there is no shortage of thrilling matchups to watch.
Top Matchups in Week 1
McKinney vs. Frisco Emerson
On Thursday at The Star in Frisco, the McKinney Lions will debut their new head coach, Nate Leonard. With a successful 9-3 record last season, and six returning starters, they face a Frisco Emerson team coming off a strong 12-3 season. Key players to watch include McKinney’s linebacker Riley Pettijohn, heading to Ohio State, and Emerson’s quarterback D.J. Shelton.
Highland Park vs. Rockwall-Heath
Also on Thursday, the Highland Park Scots and Rockwall-Heath Hawks will meet at Wilkerson-Memorial Stadium. Highland Park is coming off an 11-2 season and recently dropped divisions. They return talented linebackers Jack Morse and Anders Corn. Meanwhile, Rockwall-Heath aims to build on last year’s 9-3 record, but will miss key skill players.
Aledo vs. Denton Guyer
On Friday, Aledo, with 12 state titles to its name, starts its quest for a third straight championship against Denton Guyer. Aledo will lean on standout returning players, including Raycine Guillory and Kaydon Finley. The Wildcats will have to replace nine starters on defense but welcome new quarterback Kevin Sperry, a state title winner last season.
Longview vs. Lufkin
Longview and Lufkin will clash in a traditional East Texas rivalry. Longview, who has beaten Lufkin in their last six meetings, will aim to hold their edge despite the loss of star running back Taylor Tatum. Lufkin looks to bounce back from a season that missed the playoffs, leaning on their strong returning defense.
Competitive 6-Man Action
In the 1A division, Oglesby and Abbott will face off on Friday. Oglesby fought hard last season but fell short in the state title game, while Abbott also had a strong run until the quarterfinals of the 6A tournament last year.
Senior Showdowns
A gripping match between two teams in East Texas will occur Friday night as Kilgore faces Carthage. Both teams want to establish themselves as serious contenders this season, banking on returning talents like Kilgore’s Jayden Sanders and Carthage’s Jett Surratt.
Sparks on the Field
Frisco Lone Star will take on Argyle, showcasing star players on both teams. Lone Star’s highly acclaimed running back Davian Groce will lead his squad against Argyle’s talented quarterback Maguire Gasperson.
Big Weekend Ahead
With many other exciting matchups throughout the weekend, including South Oak Cliff vs. North Shore and Little Rock Parkview vs. Melissa, there’s no doubt that Texas high school football is kicking off with a bang. Fans can expect an exhilarating weekend of high school football with teams eager to prove themselves as the season begins.
