Featured Image By: Greg Hammer (Hammer Media/3RD Down Media)
Week five of Texas high school football is here, and the intensity keeps climbing as district races heat up and playoff implications begin to take shape. This week features two marquee matchups in the metroplex, with defending champions, unbeaten squads, and state-ranked talent all sharing the spotlight. Celina vs. Panther Creek and Waxahachie vs. DeSoto headline the action, each bringing storylines that could define the rest of the season.
Celina vs. Panther Creek
Two 4A Division I powers square off in a game that could shake up district standings. Celina, the defending champions, will look to flex their playoff-tested toughness and experience. Panther Creek, however, comes in undefeated and brimming with confidence, eager to prove they belong among the state’s elite. Expect a physical battle with big plays on both sides of the ball.
Players to Watch
- Celina: Bowe Bentley, Cameron Lucas, LJ Taylor, Logan Gutierrez
- Panther Creek: Jalen Lott, Donovan Webb, Graylyn Fry
Waxahachie vs. DeSoto
Waxahachie is riding high after a dramatic 28-27 victory over Duncanville, one of the biggest wins in program history. Now, the Indians face another major test in district rival DeSoto—a team they’ve gone 0-6 against in their last six meetings. The Eagles, sitting at 2-2, are starting to get healthy at the right time. Quarterback Legend Howell’s return (8-for-8, over 100 yards in his last outing) gives DeSoto’s offense a big boost. Can the Eagles derail Waxahachie’s momentum, or will the Indians finally flip the script?
Players to Watch
- DeSoto: USC commit Ethan Feaster, SaRod Baker, Antron Edmundson
- Waxahachie: Texas commit Kohen Brown, Taylen Strange, Jordan Smith, Jayquan Snell
The Wrap Up
With two heavyweight battles on deck, week five promises to deliver drama, high-level talent, and games that could shift the balance of power in their respective districts. Whether it’s Celina trying to defend their throne against a surging Panther Creek or Waxahachie fighting to rewrite history against DeSoto, fans can expect fireworks under the Friday night lights.
