A New Chapter for the Panthers
The Liberty Hill Panthers have been tabbed No.10 in the Austin-area preseason football poll for the 2026 season, a placement that reflects both their recent pedigree and the optimism surrounding a program that has captured 13 district titles and two state championships. Head coach David Seabren believes the squad possesses the pieces needed to contend despite a challenging realignment.
A cornerstone of the offense is running back Dylan Belinga, who burst onto the scene last year with 1,443 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. Analysts project Belinga to eclipse the 2,000‑yard mark this season, making him one of the most watched backs in Central Texas. Complementing his effort will be quarterback O’Donovan Francis, offensive lineman Isaiah Cravens and kicker Luke Barto, all of whom return as eight starters from the previous roster.
The realignment has placed Liberty Hill in a larger district that now includes Boerne and Alamo Heights, as well as the newly formed rival Legacy Ranch from the Liberty Hill ISD. With 1,576 students compared to Liberty Hill’s 1,739 and a senior class that does not exist, the Panthers will rely heavily on underclass talent while still aiming to preserve their streak of 38 consecutive wins dating back to 2006. Their schedule opens on August 27 against Killeen before confronting New Braunfels on September 24, Alamo Heights on October 9 and Boerne on October 16.
Beyond the on‑field action, the team’s storied history — highlighted by a state runner‑up finish and a string of top‑10 preseason rankings — provides a cultural backdrop that fuels ambition. Coach Seabren’s confidence, coupled with the experience of returning starters, suggests that despite the new district challenges, the Panthers are poised to mount a deep playoff run.