High School Football in Texas: The Ultimate Guide for DFW Fans
High School Football in Texas
When Friday night rolls around in Texas, the lights come on, the stands fill up, and high school football takes center stage. In the Dallas–Fort Worth area, this isn’t just a game — it’s a way of life. From powerhouse programs to small-town rivalries, high school football in Texas captures the heart and soul of the community.
Whether you’re a long-time fan, a proud parent, or new to the scene, this guide will help you experience Texas high school football like a local.
Why High School Football Is a Big Deal in Texas
High school football in Texas is practically a religion. DFW is home to dozens of legendary programs, producing future NFL stars and filling stadiums that rival college venues in size.
- Tradition: Rivalries go back decades and entire towns turn out for the games.
- Talent: Many players get recruited to play in college and beyond.
- Community: These games bring neighbors together and give students, parents, and alumni a common rallying point.
DFW High School Football Team
| Team | Classification | Stadium | State Titles | Notable Rivalries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southlake Carroll Dragons | 6A | Dragon Stadium | 8+ | Coppell, Trinity |
| Allen Eagles | 6A | Eagle Stadium (18,000 seats) | 3 | Plano East |
| Duncanville Panthers | 6A | Panther Stadium | Multiple Finalists | DeSoto |
| Aledo Bearcats | 5A | Bearcat Stadium | 10+ | Denton Ryan |
| Highland Park Scots | 6A | Highlander Stadium | 3 (recent era) | Jesuit Dallas |
| DeSoto Eagles | 6A | Eagle Stadium | 1 | Duncanville |
This table gives newcomers a quick snapshot of the most dominant teams in the Metroplex.
Must-See Rivalries
Rivalry games are some of the most exciting nights of the year.
- Southlake Carroll vs. Coppell
- Allen vs. Plano East
- Duncanville vs. DeSoto
- Arlington Bowie vs. Arlington Lamar
Where to Watch
High school football in DFW isn’t hard to find — but some stadiums are legendary:
- Eagle Stadium (Allen) – Feels like a college game day.
- Apogee Stadium (Denton) – Neutral site for playoff matchups.
- Globe Life Field & AT&T Stadium – Host state championship games.
- Toyota Stadium (Frisco) – Popular playoff venue.
Streaming and Coverage Guide
Can’t make it to the stadium? You’ve still got options:
- NFHS Network: The go-to for most UIL broadcasts.
- TexanLive: Streams games live across Texas.
- Bally Sports Southwest: Select games and playoff coverage.
- YouTube & School Streams: Many schools have free broadcasts.
Follow these local media outlets for coverage and highlights:
- Dallas Morning News HS Sports
- Fort Worth Star-Telegram Sports
- VYPE DFW (great on Twitter/X for real-time scores)
Game Day Essentials for DFW Fans
Want to look like a seasoned fan?
- School colors — T-shirts, hoodies, or face paint.
- Clear bag — many stadiums enforce NFL-style policies.
- Cash/card — some stadiums are cashless, so check ahead.
- Arrive early — 30–45 minutes before kickoff is best.
- Support the band & cheerleaders — they’re part of the experience.
Best Food Near the Big Stadiums
Make game day a full night out with local eats:
- Allen Eagle Stadium: Try Kelly’s Craft Tavern or Twisted Root Burger Co.
- Dragon Stadium (Southlake): Hit Feedstore BBQ before kickoff.
- Panther Stadium (Duncanville): Local favorite: Off the Bone BBQ.
- Toyota Stadium (Frisco): Do a pre-game bite at Cane Rosso or Babe’s Chicken Dinner House.
Insider Tips and Local Insights
- Parking Hacks: Park near exits or side lots to beat the post-game rush.
- Weather Prep: Early games can be hot — bring a hat and water. Playoff games can be chilly — pack a blanket.
- Spirit Gear: Booster clubs often sell cheaper merch than big-box stores.
- Student Sections: Sit nearby if you want energy (or away from them if you want quiet!).
Playoff Season and State Championships
Texas high school football playoffs are a spectacle. The season ends in December with the UIL State Championships at AT&T Stadium — a bucket-list experience for any football fan.
Why You Should Go
High school football in Texas isn’t just about the sport — it’s about community pride, tradition, and unforgettable Friday nights under the lights.
So grab your seat, cheer loudly, and experience why Friday Night Lights is a Texas tradition that never gets old.
