Last year's 4A Division I state title winner, Stephenville (1,076 enrollment), is firmly cemented in the center of 4A Division I and looks to continue to be a power in the division under the leadership of Sterling Doty.
Carthage (enrollment: 761) sits near the top in size for 4A Division II, and the Bulldogs will be competing for a 12th state title under head coach Scott Surratt. While key contributors on both sides of the ball must be replaced, Carthage could turn to a familiar name as it reloads. 2028 ATH JD Edwards is the younger brother of RB KJ Edwards, who is headed to Texas A&M.