The Yorktown Wildcats will open their 2025 season at home against Karnes City at Wildcat Stadium Friday, Aug. 29, at 7 p.m.
Yorktown is coming off a 7-4 season, including a 3-2 district record. The Wildcats return several key players, including standout Brody Metting, who had a breakout junior year. Senior Ryan Knostman Jr. will line up at tight end and defensive end, while senior Matthew Olguin returns as a wide receiver and defensive back. Junior Brayden Knostman will also contribute at wide receiver and in the secondary. Junior Gunnar Hughes is expected to anchor the offensive line, and sophomore McKenzie Yanta adds depth at running back.
Dave Campbell’s Texas Football reported Yorktown’s biggest obstacle will be inexperience along the offensive and defensive lines. Head coach Ryan Knostman said he has been encouraged by the linemen’s progress and effort early in practice.
The opener comes against Karnes City, which finished 6-4 overall and 3-4 in district play last season, including a 36-14 victory over Yorktown. The Badgers are led by new athletic director and head coach Trent Enriquez. They return running back Israel Soto, who averaged 67.7 rushing yards per game and led the team with 11 touchdowns, along with quarterback Savion Nixon-Thompson, who threw for 12 scores.
Karnes City graduated 17 players, leaving inexperience as a key factor as the Badgers rebuild.
