ARLINGTON — An undefeated season and a long-awaited opportunity converge Friday morning as Stephenville faces Kilgore in the Class 4A Division I state championship game at AT&T Stadium.
Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. with Stephenville (15-0) entering as the favorite and Kilgore (14-1) seeking a breakthrough on the state’s biggest stage. The matchup brings together two programs with strong postseason pedigrees but contrasting recent paths to Arlington.
Stephenville arrives unbeaten and ranked No. 17 in the state, continuing a season defined by consistency and control. The Yellowjackets last captured a state championship in 2021 and now sit one win away from reclaiming the title. Entering the game with a 60% favorability, Stephenville has balanced experience with depth, using disciplined execution to maintain its perfect record through a demanding schedule.
Kilgore’s journey has been defined by persistence. The Bulldogs have reached the postseason consistently in recent years but have often fallen just short of a championship run. This season, Kilgore broke through that barrier, navigating the playoffs to earn its place in the state final. At 14-1, the Bulldogs bring confidence and resilience built from years of near-misses and postseason lessons.
The contrast in narratives adds intrigue to the championship. Stephenville seeks to complete an undefeated campaign and reaffirm its standing among the state’s elite programs, while Kilgore looks to turn sustained playoff success into a defining moment for the program.
With a title on the line and two battle-tested teams meeting under the lights of AT&T Stadium, Friday’s Class 4A Division I championship promises a competitive showdown shaped by momentum, experience and the culmination of a season’s work.