Allen High School began its 2026 campaign with a 26-7 victory over nationally ranked Duncanville on Friday. The Eagles, who returned only seven starters from their previous state semifinal run, relied on a dominant defensive performance to secure the win.
Allen’s defense held Duncanville to just 163 total yards of offense. Fifty-three of those yards came during the Panthers’ single touchdown of the game. Senior defensive linemen Jacobie Wilkerson and Beckhem Palmer led a line that recorded 13 tackles for loss and six sacks, replacing graduated players Josh Shaw and Devin Palmer.
The Eagles face a challenging preseason schedule ahead. Upcoming opponents include DeSoto, featuring running back SaRod Baker, and Southlake Carroll, which utilizes an aerial attack led by quarterback Hudson Tomcheck and receiver Brody Knowles.
Across the district, all four Prosper ISD football programs secured wins in their Week 1 matchups. The district had to replace significant offensive talent from the previous year, with Richland being the only program returning more than a handful of starters.
Prosper defeated Rockwall 56-37, accumulating 549 yards and eight touchdowns. Senior quarterback Tyler Albert, junior running back Hudson Bowman, and senior receiver Marcus McCoy led the offense. Rock Hill won 19-13 against Arlington Bowie, recording four interceptions and one fumble recovery to limit the opponent to 13 points.
