There were high school football thrillers all across Texas in Week 8, but it’s hard to argue any matchup topped the District 1-2A Division I showdown between Panhandle and West Texas High. Under the glow of the lights at Comanches Field, two top-10 programs put on an instant classic that left fans breathless, with West Texas High edging Panhandle 50-49 in one of the wildest games of the year.
The win keeps the Comanches unbeaten at 7-0 — their first 7-0 start in 30 years — and more importantly, a perfect 2-0 in district play. It also solidifies WT High as the lone remaining undefeated 11-man team in the Texas Panhandle, a testament to their grit and resilience in the face of constant challenges.
From the opening kickoff to the final whistle, this matchup lived up to every bit of its hype. The two teams combined for a jaw-dropping 99 points, nine lead changes, and two ties in a back-and-forth shootout that felt like a heavyweight title fight. The offenses traded haymakers all night long, amassing a combined 892 total yards.
Both squads were nearly flawless on third down — WT High went 9-for-15 while Panhandle converted 8-of-9 — and both delivered in clutch moments. Yet, it was the Comanches’ ability to control the clock and capitalize late that made the difference.
Trailing 49-42 with just 2:25 remaining, WT High quarterback Cayde Winters once again proved why he’s one of the state’s most dynamic playmakers. On a designed quarterback run, Winters broke through the middle and bounced outside for a stunning 35-yard touchdown — his seventh score of the night — cutting the deficit to one. Rather than settle for the tie, head coach Brian Kent went for the win. The Comanches lined up for their trademark two-point try, and Winters did it again, darting toward the pylon and barely crossing the goal line to give WT High the 50-49 lead.
Panhandle still had time, and with 2:18 left and two timeouts, the Panthers had the chance to snatch the victory back. But on the fourth play of the drive, quarterback Broxton Robinson’s pass over the middle was deflected by TJ Riggs and picked off by Landen McLaughlin, sealing the emotional victory for the Comanches.
After the game, Panhandle head coach Dane Ashley shouldered the blame for the final play call, but the loss hardly diminishes what his Panthers accomplished offensively. Robinson, an Army commit, was outstanding for much of the night, throwing for 192 yards and three touchdowns while adding 92 rushing yards and three more scores. Running back Landen Krogh also churned out 102 yards on 11 carries, keeping the Panthers’ attack balanced and dangerous.
Still, the night belonged to Winters, who turned in one of the most memorable performances in recent Panhandle football history. He rushed for a staggering 369 yards and accounted for all seven of WT High’s touchdowns, along with four successful two-point conversions. Behind a punishing offensive line anchored by Ty Buck and Deacon Smith, Winters refused to be denied.
As the final seconds ticked off the clock and the Comanche faithful stormed the field, it was clear that this wasn’t just another win — it was a statement. West Texas High isn’t just undefeated; they’re battle-tested, confident, and looking every bit the contender they’ve dreamed of becoming.
