One of the most challenging preseason schedules the Harris Ratings Weekly Class 4A Division II No. 17 Brownwood Lions have endured in recent years starts with a repeat of the 2025 season opener - a trip to Class 5A Division II Abilene Wylie.

Kickoff for the 2026 season opener - and a rematch of last year's 25-0 Wylie triumph - takes place at 7 p.m. Friday at Hugh Sandifer Stadium.

"I'm excited to see what a real game looks like for us," said Lions second-year head coach Jeryl Brixey.