2025 Pauls Valley Panthers Football Preview – Presented by Punkins BBQ & Catfish

PAULS VALLEY PANTHERS

Coach: MASON ANTHONY

8-4

OFFENSE

A new era is taking shape in Pauls Valley, and with it comes a renewed sense of purpose and energy. Head coach Mason Anthony is ready to lead the Panthers into a season of growth and grit. “As we enter a new era of Pauls Valley Football, with a new team and new systems, our focus is on trusting the process,” said Anthony. “We’re proud of the strides made last season, and we’re using that as a springboard—while fully aware that the road ahead will demand grit and perseverance.

The Panthers return five starters on offense, and the foundation begins up front. Veterans like Mason Barahona (6-0, 220, Sr.), James Fields (6-1, 295, Sr.), and James Major (6-0, 220, Sr.) bring size and strength to the offensive line. Junior Elijah Olguin (6-0, 190, Jr.) adds depth, while tight end Skeet Jolly (6-3, 195, Sr.) gives the Panthers a versatile weapon in the passing game.

“Our offense operates out of a spread formation with an emphasis on running the football,” Anthony said. “We incorporate a variety of shifts and motions to create defensive uncertainty and favorable matchups. The system is designed to be efficient, adaptable, and consistently pressure opposing defenses with pace and precision.”

DEFENSE

The defense returns seven starters and will base out of an odd stack front. It’s an aggressive, disruptive unit designed to create chaos for opposing offenses. “Our scheme emphasizes aggressive play, varied looks, and disciplined execution to disrupt timing and force mistakes,” said Anthony. “The focus is on dictating the pace of the game defensively through alignment, movement, and relentless pursuit.”

Senior leaders like James Major and Mason Barahona will anchor the defensive line, while Jace Wilkerson (6-1, 200, Sr.) is a physical presence at linebacker. Jolly, also a standout safety, brings leadership and playmaking to the secondary.

The Panthers are committed to the APEX standard— “doing hard things the right way”—as they set out to build a new identity rooted in toughness, discipline, and pride.

8-29 – vs. Lindsay

9-5 – at Davis

9-13 – at Weatherford

9-19 – at Kingfisher

9-26 – vs. Plainview

10-3 – at North Rock Creek

10-10 – vs. Anadarko

10-16 – at Heritage Hall

10-24 – vs. Star-Spencer

10-31 – vs. Purcell

11-7 – BYE