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Episode 145 of the Texas HS Football Podcast brings together three players making major impacts across the state.
Host Taylor Arenz talks with Hardin junior Kolten Bishop, Cedar Ridge senior Dylan Snoga and North Crowley senior G’yrell Smith. Each player arrives from a different program and situation. However, all three have helped their teams create memorable moments during the 2026 season.
First, Bishop represents one of the state’s smaller-school success stories. Hardin finished 12-1 in 2025, won its district and reached the third round of the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Cedar Ridge has authored one of Texas High School football’s biggest turnarounds. The Raiders finished just 5-5 last season. They have responded by opening 2026 with seven consecutive victories.
Additionally, Smith continues to produce for a North Crowley program with championship expectations. The North Texas commit recently delivered three touchdowns in a major district victory over previously unbeaten Waxahachie.
Kolten Bishop Helps Hardin Keep Building
Bishop has become an important two-way piece for Hardin.
The junior plays quarterback and strong safety, giving him a unique perspective on nearly every part of the game. MaxPreps lists Bishop as a 5-foot-11, 175-pound quarterback and safety for the Hornets.
Last season established a new standard for the program. Hardin finished 12-1 after opening with 12 straight victories. The Hornets also went 6-0 in district play before their postseason ended against Yoakum. Therefore, 2026 is not simply about surprising opponents. Hardin now enters games with expectations created by last year’s success.
One of the biggest moments this fall came against Newton.
Hardin secured a dramatic 25-24 victory, giving Bishop and his teammates another signature win.
During the podcast, Bishop discusses the challenge of playing both sides of the football. He also talks about his development and the responsibilities that come with being involved on nearly every snap.
Moreover, the conversation goes beyond his own production. Bishop explains what makes the Hardin program special and highlights the teammates around him.
For a junior, there is still plenty of football ahead. However, Bishop already has significant playoff experience and another full season before his high school career ends.
Dylan Snoga Leads Cedar Ridge’s Remarkable Turnaround
Few teams have changed their trajectory more dramatically than Cedar Ridge.
The Raiders finished 5-5 in 2025 after averaging 36 points per game. Their offense showed promise, but the overall results remained inconsistent.
This season has been completely different.
Cedar Ridge has started 7-0 and sits atop District 25-6A. Through seven games, the Raiders have scored 322 points while allowing 143.
At quarterback, Snoga has played a major role in that turnaround.
MaxPreps lists the senior at 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds. Through the early portion of the season, he had thrown for 1,389 yards and 17 touchdowns with just one interception.
Then came one of Cedar Ridge’s biggest tests.
The Raiders went on the road and defeated Lake Travis 35-34, keeping their undefeated season alive.
On the podcast, Snoga discusses the growth that made this season possible. He talks about developing as a quarterback, becoming a leader and helping change the expectations surrounding Cedar Ridge football.
Additionally, he gives credit to the teammates who have helped build the Raiders’ explosive offense.
The transformation is especially striking considering where the program stood one year ago. Cedar Ridge went from a .500 team to an undefeated contender in one offseason.
For Snoga, the opportunity is also personal. This is his final high school season, making every district game and postseason opportunity even more meaningful.
G’yrell Smith Keeps North Crowley Rolling
Smith enters Episode 145 with a college commitment already secured.
The North Crowley senior committed to North Texas in June, giving him clarity before his final high school season. Rivals lists him as a 5-foot-8.5, 195-pound running back
Still, Smith has plenty left to accomplish with the Panthers.
North Crowley recently faced undefeated Waxahachie in one of the state’s biggest district matchups. The Panthers responded with a convincing 42-17 victory.
Smith was one of the central figures in that performance. He rushed for 127 yards and three touchdowns on only 11 carries, according to MaxPreps.
Meanwhile, the victory kept North Crowley unbeaten and strengthened its position in the district race.
During the interview, Smith discusses his commitment to North Texas and what he learned during recruiting. He also shares advice for younger players going through the same process.
Additionally, Taylor and Smith discuss the emotions surrounding his final season.
North Crowley enters every year with major expectations, and this team is no different. The Panthers have developed a dangerous running game, with Smith providing explosiveness and scoring ability out of the backfield.
However, Smith’s goals extend beyond individual numbers. He discusses the standard inside the program and what it takes to chase another championship.
That makes Episode 145 a snapshot of three very different football journeys.
Bishop is building on Hardin’s historic success. Snoga is leading an undefeated turnaround at Cedar Ridge. Smith is preparing for North Texas while trying to finish his North Crowley career with another deep postseason run.
Together, their stories show just how many different paths exist across Texas High School football.
The Texas HS Football Podcast is hosted by Taylor Arenz and presented by JaMar Roofing.
