When it comes to high school football, everything really is bigger in Texas. The Lone Star State has made a thunderous statement ahead of the 2025 season, placing 38 teams in the Preseason High School Football America 300, powered by NFL Play Football. This remarkable showing once again affirms Texas’ status as a national powerhouse in the sport.

Duncanville Leads the Texas Charge

At the forefront of Texas’ representation is Duncanville High School, which starts the year ranked No. 11. The Panthers, known for their physical dominance and elite talent pipeline, are aiming to reclaim their crown after seeing their back-to-back 6A Division I state championship run halted in the 2024 state semifinals by eventual champions North Crowley.

Despite the setback, Duncanville remains a top contender and will have their eyes set firmly on a national championship run in 2025.

North Crowley Close Behind at No. 13

North Crowley, the team that dethroned Duncanville en route to a Texas state title, begins the season just two spots behind at No. 13. Their deep playoff push and impressive roster performance last year vaulted them into the national spotlight. Now, they look to prove their title was no fluke and that they belong among the elite.

Southlake Carroll, Westlake, and Allen Make Strong Appearances

Following closely are Southlake Carroll at No. 22, Westlake at No. 28, and perennial national contender Allen at No. 41.

Southlake Carroll reached the 6A Division II championship game in 2024 but fell to Vandegrift. This year, they return with a vengeance, aiming to turn their near miss into a title run.

Westlake, meanwhile, was a runner-up in the state title game last season and enters the rankings just behind Southlake Carroll. Known for producing elite quarterbacks, including NFL star Drew Brees and Clemson standout Cade Klubnik, Westlake remains a force to watch.

Allen, once the dominant team in high school football with three national championships from 2012 to 2014, is seeking a return to national prominence. Their No. 41 ranking suggests they are poised to make a deep playoff run and possibly shake up the national standings.

Other Texas Programs to Watch

Several other Texas programs are spread throughout the HSFA 300, each bringing tradition, talent, and fan passion:

• North Shore (No. 43): A perennial title contender with multiple recent championships.

• Atascocita (No. 46): Known for big wins and physical play.

• Vandegrift (No. 51): The 6A Division II champions, now looking to repeat.

• Lake Travis (No. 75): Home to past NFL talent and a strong playoff pedigree.

• DeSoto (No. 81): A DFW-area powerhouse with deep playoff experience.

• Aledo (No. 89): Small-town dominance with numerous state titles.

• Highland Park (No. 93): Tradition-rich and always competitive.

• South Oak Cliff (No. 107): A consistent playoff performer in recent years.

• Denton Ryan (No. 109), Katy (No. 120), and Denton Guyer (No. 123): All three are well-known names on the Texas high school football scene.

Further down the rankings are rising programs like Richmond Randle (No. 150), Cibolo Steele (No. 161), Ridge Point (No. 165), Fulshear (No. 182), Prosper (No. 194), and Smithson Valley (No. 217)—each ready to climb the charts with strong 2025 campaigns.

Not to be overlooked, teams like The Woodlands (No. 234), Lone Star (Frisco, No. 237), Willis (No. 244), and Lewisville (No. 257) represent the depth of Texas talent across the board. Even Dripping Springs (No. 266) and Katy Jordan (No. 272), relatively newer to the elite scene, are earning respect on the national stage.

Texas vs. The Nation

Texas trails only California in total number of teams ranked in the HSFA 300, and the rivalry between the states will continue to shape the national conversation throughout the 2025 season. California holds the top two spots with Mater Dei (No. 1) and St. John Bosco (No. 2), but the Lone Star State has more depth in the rankings.

In fact, Texas has six teams ranked in the Top 51 and 14 in the Top 100, which showcases just how competitive the state is at every level—from powerhouse public schools to rising suburban programs.

A Season of High Expectations

As the 2025 season kicks off, expectations are sky-high across the state. From Duncanville’s redemption story, to North Crowley’s title defense, to Allen’s potential resurgence—Texas fans are in for a season packed with rivalries, playoff drama, and national implications.

With 38 teams in the HSFA 300, Texas is not just participating in the national football conversation—it’s leading it.

Editor’s Note: The High School Football America rankings are developed using a proprietary algorithm that evaluates strength of schedule, team performance, historical strength, and other key metrics.