The upcoming high school football season in Central Texas promises drama across the classification brackets, with teams from Class 4A and its sub‑divisions eyeing deep playoff runs. From the rolling hills of Wimberley to the suburban streets of Stephenville, programs are blending seasoned talent with fresh faces, setting the stage for a year that could reshape regional rankings.
LBJ High School enters the campaign as a serious contender for a Class 4A Division I playoff berth, buoyed by a potent mix of speed on the edges and a disciplined back seven. Meanwhile, Wimberley boasts a defense that looks capable of stifling even the most balanced offenses, and the addition of a promising new quarterback adds a layer of optimism for a potential Class 4A DII title run.
At Regents, quarterback Jack Devine is the focal point of a team that aims to capture the TAPPS Division II crown. A stacked defensive line anchors the squad, and the chemistry between Devine and his skill‑position players could translate into a relentless attack that opponents will find hard to contain.
Key Offensive Threats
Taylor’s offense leans heavily on Eric Walker, a 1,000‑yard rusher whose vision and breakaway speed have made him a cornerstone of the team’s ground game. Complementing Walker, Jeremiah Caldwell brings dual‑threat versatility as a wideout and occasional quarterback, giving the Tigers a dynamic playbook that could push them back into playoff contention if the defense tightens up.
St. Michael’s hopes rest on Nico Anderson, a versatile quarterback who can extend plays with his arm and legs. His ability to read defenses and deliver precise throws gives the Knights a realistic shot at returning to the TAPPS Division I playoffs, a feat that would underscore the program’s upward trajectory.
Defending champions Stephenville, who captured the Class 4A DI state title in 2025, begin the season under the guidance of coach Trot Jordan. A deep roster that blends experienced seniors with emerging talent positions the team as the team to beat in District 12‑4A DI, even as they navigate the challenges of sustaining a title‑winning culture.
Other storylines involve Jarrell’s freshman phenom Brayden Henderson, who is already drawing Power Five attention for his explosive running back play, and San Antonio Davenport’s sophomore quarterback Tristan Torrez, who amassed 2,388 yards and 24 touchdowns last year, fueling optimism for a district playoff push. Eastside High School, riding a historic first postseason appearance since 1991, aims to build on that momentum and secure back‑to‑back playoff berths.
Defensive Prowess
Defensively, Wimberley’s front line — anchored by Rhett Rosborough, Chase Lawson and Tytus Anderson — is being heralded as one of the strongest in Class 4A DII, while Regents’ edge rusher Colin Angelo earned first‑team all‑state honors, underscoring the caliber of talent that could define the season’s defensive narratives.