A Dynasty in Southern Maryland
Patuxent High School’s football program has cemented its place among Maryland’s elite, having captured back‑to‑back Class 1A state titles in 2024 and 2025, defeating Dunbar and Fort Hill in the championship games. The Panthers finished the last two seasons with a combined 24‑3 record, a stretch that many analysts consider one of the most dominant in recent state history.
Head coach Steve Crounse, now in his 34th year at the helm, has become synonymous with the program’s sustained success. Under his guidance the team has amassed three state championships, seven regional crowns and 11 Southern Maryland Athletic Conference titles since 2002. Crounse attributes the dynasty not to a single generation of players but to a culture of consistency, standards and community support that has endured for more than two decades.
Returning Talent and New Motivation
Among the returning standouts is senior running back Anton Wilkins, who missed the latter part of the 2025 campaign due to a broken collarbone. Wilkins is eager to make an immediate impact in 2026, hoping his experience and resilience will help offset the loss of several key contributors from last year’s championship roster.
The Panthers will need to replace a host of departed seniors, including several linemen, wide receivers and secondary players who were integral to the recent title runs. Rather than resting on past achievements, Crounse emphasizes daily effort and incremental improvement, framing each practice as an opportunity to reinforce the program’s core values.
Community and Culture
Community involvement remains a cornerstone of Patuxent football. Parents, local businesses and regional fans have long rallied behind the team, providing a supportive backdrop that coaches say fuels the players’ dedication. This collective enthusiasm helps the Panthers compete against a diverse mix of schools within the Southern Maryland Athletic Conference, ranging from larger programs to similarly sized rivals.
As the 2026 season approaches, the focus is squarely on building on the foundation laid by recent triumphs while staying true to the process that has defined the program for 25 years. With a blend of seasoned leadership, motivated talent and unwavering community backing, Patuxent aims to continue its pursuit of regional and state titles.