The 2025 Texas high school football season continues as the Merkel Badgers travel to face the Ballinger Bearcats in a non-conference opener on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Hosted at Ballinger High School (TX), this matchup features two proud small-school programs aiming to set the tone for their seasons. Both teams enter 0-0, looking to secure a crucial early-season win.
Game Details
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Matchup: Merkel (TX) @ Ballinger (TX)
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Date & Time: Friday, August 29, 2025 – 7:00 PM
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Location: Ballinger High School, Ballinger, TX
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Live Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
Fans can purchase digital tickets through GoFan or stream the game live on the NFHS Network (subscription: $13.99/month or $79.99/year).Watch here: Start your free trial today
Merkel Badgers
The Merkel Badgers enter the season ranked #8,844 nationally and #891 in Texas, bringing energy and experience into the 2025 campaign. To open the season with a win, Merkel will need to execute on both sides of the ball, especially controlling the line of scrimmage and limiting Ballinger’s offensive rhythm.
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2025 Record: 0-0
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National Rank: #8,844
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State Rank (TX): #891
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Key to Win: Play disciplined defense, establish the run early, and protect the football.
Main Squad:
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Adrian Lopez – QB
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Isaiah Torres – RB
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Caleb Johnson – WR/DB
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Brandon Garcia – WR
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Nathan Hernandez – OL/DL
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Michael Cruz – TE/LB
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Xavier Martinez – DB
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Hunter Rivera – LB
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Gabriel Sanchez – DL
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Daniel Flores – WR
Ballinger Bearcats
The Ballinger Bearcats begin 2025 ranked #10,668 nationally and #1,027 in Texas, hungry to defend their home field. Known for toughness and community pride, Ballinger will need to slow Merkel’s speed and rely on a balanced attack to stay competitive. Red-zone efficiency and defensive stops will be key.
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2025 Record: 0-0
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National Rank: #10,668
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State Rank (TX): #1,027
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Key to Win: Leverage home-field advantage, create turnovers, and convert scoring opportunities.
Main Squad:
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Marcos Ramirez – QB
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Luis Gonzales – RB
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Anthony Perez – WR
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Jordan Martinez – WR/CB
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Diego Chavez – OL/DL
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Alex Vasquez – TE/LB
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Cristian Herrera – DB
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Jose Morales – LB
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Ethan Scott – DL
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Matthew Torres – WR
Rankings & Records
| Team | National Rank | State Rank | Overall Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merkel | 8,844 | 891 | 0-0 |
| Ballinger | 10,668 | 1,027 | 0-0 |
Abu Sayem is a sports enthusiast and writer who enjoys sharing stories about high school athletics. He is passionate about celebrating the teamwork, dedication, and spirit of young athletes.
