This piece likens top Texas high school football (TXHSFB) programs to Thanksgiving dishes, highlighting their unique characteristics. Each program reflects a dish that represents its tradition, success, or flavor in the competitive football landscape. The Katy Tigers, for example, embody turkey due to their longstanding presence and consistency, while the Aledo Bearcats are compared to ham for their juicy, electrifying play style. Other teams like the Carthage Bulldogs and South Oak Cliff add depth to the table, showcasing the diverse identity of Texas high school football.

By the Numbers
  • Katy has 15 state championship appearances, the most in UIL history.
  • Carthage is 10-0 in state championship games with only one decision by a single score.
  • Aledo has 12 state championship victories, leading UIL teams.
  • South Oak Cliff averaged 55 points per game during the 2023 season.
Yes, But

While some teams dominate in the spotlight, there is ongoing debate about the style of play and attention given to larger programs like Allen versus smaller, established teams such as Odessa Permian and Carthage. Additionally, certain traditions, like the portrayal of turkey in the analogy, may overlook the evolving dynamics within Texas high school football.

State of Play
  • The competitive landscape of TXHSFB showcases teams with rich histories and varying styles.
  • Teams like North Shore and Odessa Permian continue to challenge for playoff relevance despite recent state championship droughts.
What's Next

Looking ahead, teams like Smithson Valley aim to build on past successes, potentially reshaping their narratives for future championships. The upcoming playoffs will reveal if teams break longstanding patterns or continue traditional rivalries in Texas football.

Bottom Line

This Thanksgiving-inspired analogy serves as a reminder of the rich tradition and broad diversity inherent in TXHSFB, encouraging fans to reflect on their favorite teams while recognizing the ever-changing dynamics in competition.