MINERAL WELLS — The Paradise Panthers (9-1 overall, 6-0 in District) are gearing up for their opening-round playoff matchup against the Breckenridge Buckaroos this Friday night, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. at Mineral Wells Ram Stadium.
Paradise enters the Class 3A Division I playoffs not only on the back of a strong regular season but also riding a high statewide ranking. The Panthers were recently ranked No. 2 in the state in the DCTF (Dave Campbell’s Texas Football) Class 3A Division I poll. Under head coach Joe Koch, Paradise has shown both offensive balance and defensive resilience, with a dominant ground game led by senior backs and a physical offensive line.
Breckenridge (7-3 overall, 2-3 in District) comes into the contest looking to turn momentum back in their favor after a challenging district finish. The Buckaroos boast a quick-strike offense led by quarterback Owen Woodward and a receiving corps that can change a game in a snap. Their defense has proven opportunistic, with key turnovers shifting momentum late in several wins this season.
Friday’s clash brings together two programs known for their toughness and strong fan support, but only one will advance to next week’s area round. The winner will face the victor of the Brock–Whitesboro game. Paradise’s top-end ranking underscores the magnitude of this matchup: their No. 2 status in the DCTF poll puts added spotlight on the Panthers as they attempt to meet or exceed expectations.
Paradise’s defense will have a significant test in trying to contain Breckenridge’s aerial attack, while the Buckaroos must devise a plan to slow Paradise’s potent running game. With both teams fairly evenly matched on paper, execution and special teams could prove decisive.
Fans from both communities are expected to travel to Mineral Wells in full force, adding to the high-stakes atmosphere of Friday night’s showdown.