5A Team of the Week: Paschal Panthers
Friday night was one for the history books for the Paschal Panthers. With Paschal holding a 30-28 lead with just seconds left, Wyatt lined up for a field goal to try and snatch the victory.
Instead, senior Dylan Williams got through to block the attempt, a moment Paschal High will remember forever. With the win, the Panthers secured their first playoff berth since 1995. They’re also now guaranteed to have their first winning season since 1979.
“Our players decided last year after realignment that our goal was to make the playoffs in class 5A. We have had a strong belief that we had all the ability to do so,” Paschal head coach John Killough said. “Our players worked hard throughout the offseason, spring ball, and summer strength and conditioning to achieve this goal. It is very exciting for our players, coaches and community to have qualified for the playoffs after a 28-year absence. Our focus is now on our next opponent and winning games one week at a time, one play at a time, and continuing to become closer as a family.”
Just got word. It was senior Dylan Williams who blocked the kick and broke Paschal’s 28-year playoff drought. #txhsfb https://t.co/ar3cNCkaFv
— Charles Baggarly (@swaggarly) October 25, 2024
Offensively, the Panthers leaned on quarterback Jashaun Thomas. He completed nine of his ten passes for 108 yards and also racked up 90 yards and two scores on the ground. Running back Marquez Dean surpassed the century mark for the second-straight game with 106 yards and a touchdown on just 13 carries. Receiver Luke Tevis had a rushing touchdown and also led the Paschal pass-catchers with two receptions for 47 yards.
With a playoff spot now secured, Paschal will now turn its attention to trying to earn the highest possible seed. The Panthers currently sit third in their district with a 5-1 district record. They’ll look to add another win this week when they host Trimble Tech on Thursday.
Previous 5A Teams of the Week
Week One: Sherman
Week Two: La Joya Juarez-Lincoln
Week Three: Seguin
Week Four: Corpus Christi Carroll
Week Five: Leander
Week Six: Lovejoy
Week Seven: Mansfield Summit
Week Eight: Abilene Wylie
