Get ready for some classic Texas gridiron action! The Plano Wildcats are taking on the Odessa Permian Panthers in the 5th Annual Jerry Jones Classic. Expect a fierce rivalry and incredible plays at the Ford Center. Who do you think will come out on top in this epic high school football showdown?
The highly anticipated 5th Annual Jerry Jones Classic, presented by Whataburger, is set to ignite the Texas high school football season, featuring a thrilling opener between the Plano Wildcats and the Odessa Permian Panthers. This prestigious event, held at the state-of-the-art Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, continues its tradition of showcasing top-tier athletic talent and fierce rivalries that captivate fans across the Lone Star State.
This year’s edition of the Jerry Jones Classic marks a significant milestone, welcoming the seventh and eighth distinct teams to grace the hallowed turf of the Dallas Cowboys’ practice headquarters. The Ford Center at The Star provides an unparalleled setting for these high-stakes contests, elevating the experience for both players and spectators as they witness the future stars of Texas high school football.
Dallas Cowboys Owner, President, and General Manager Jerry Jones himself expressed immense pride in the event’s growth. “It’s always an honor to kick off with two top Texas high school football programs competing here,” Jones stated in a press release, emphasizing how the tradition of these season-openers is firmly taking hold, offering a spectacular start to another full season of electrifying high school football games, proudly supported by Whataburger.
The rivalry between Plano and Permian carries a rich history, with past encounters adding layers of intensity to this modern-day showdown. Notably, in 1977, Plano emerged victorious with a 3-0 win in the state semifinals before securing the Class 6A title. Another nail-biting semifinal matchup in 1978 saw Plano narrowly defeat Permian, 6-3, setting a precedent for tight, hard-fought contests between these storied programs.
Plano’s football heritage is deeply rooted, dating back to 1904. With an impressive 783 wins to their name, 26 seasons boasting ten or more victories, and a formidable playoff record of 88-43-2, the Plano Wildcats have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, solidifying their status as one of Texas’s most respected high school football teams.
Odessa Permian, commencing its football journey in 1959, has likewise built an illustrious legacy. The Permian Panthers have accumulated 581 wins, celebrated 25 seasons with ten or more victories, and maintain a strong playoff record of 94-33-6. Their national recognition soared in 2004 with the release of the movie “Friday Night Lights,” based on H.G. Bissinger’s compelling book about the Panthers’ 1988 season, further cementing the team’s iconic status in American football culture.
Looking at recent performance, Plano concluded last year with a 5-5 record, while Odessa Permian posted a more robust 8-4 mark. The two teams faced off last season, with the Panthers securing a narrow 13-10 victory, indicating that this Jerry Jones Classic rematch is poised to be another fiercely competitive battle.
Early game action at the Ford Center at The Star provided immediate drama, including a nearly successful flea flicker by the Panthers on the second play. Aaron Navarette’s impressive catch and tackle-break, however, ended with a fumble at the 2-yard line, recovered by Plano. The Plano Wildcats later missed a 22-yard field goal, keeping the score tight in a dome environment, a welcome change from the pouring rain outside in Frisco.
This comprehensive coverage is brought to you by veteran journalist Cody Thorn, based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Thorn’s extensive experience covering high school sports across Texas and Missouri since 1999 ensures in-depth and reliable reporting on events like the Plano vs. Permian game at the Jerry Jones Classic, offering fans expert insights into the heart of Texas football.
