As the countdown until the Kinkaid Falcons’ first home football game winds down, anticipation is building about what the game will hold. 

Although the outcome can not be predicted, the opponents’ standing across the field cannot be underestimated as the 2026 Parish Panthers football team comes to Segal Field at The Kinkaid School.    

The Panthers are entering the 2026 season on a hot streak. Last season, they took home the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools Division 1 State Championship with a 12-1 record, capturing six of the last seven state championship trophies. 

This impressive run is a major reason why the Panthers are at the top of MaxPreps preseason rankings for Greater Dallas private schools.

Although only three of their 22 starters are returning this season, the Panthers are still loaded with talent, led by sophomore quarterback Logan Lucero, who has 25 Division 1 offers. 

MaxPreps stated that the Panthers’ program has established “one of the strongest winning traditions in Texas private school football.” 

Kinkaid’s football team is led by senior running back Wayne Shanks, who is coming off a breakout season.

 Shanks said  he expects “nothing less than a state championship” from the 2026 squad.

Friday’s game will be a battle for many reasons, including that both teams have lost their 2026 season openers. Despite their defeat last week against Valor Christian, the Kinkaid players are coming in with confidence.

“I have a lot of trust in my boys, and I am looking forward to showing it on the field,” said junior wide receiver Oliver Absmeier.

The Falcons will have the advantage of playing in front of their home crowd. 

As the Falcons’ first home game approaches, many are watching to see how they will measure up to one of the most successful private football teams in the state.