Texas high school football is more than just a game — it's a way of life. Dave Campbell's Texas Football is spotlighting a different program from across the Lone Star State, diving into their history, traditions, and legends. From powerhouse programs to hidden gems, Texas High School Football Spotlight is your deep dive into what makes each team unique. Whether it's unforgettable seasons, iconic players, or fierce rivalries, this series celebrates the schools, communities, and stories that define Texas high school football.

TODAY'S SPOTLIGHT: MINERAL WELLS RAMS

THE RUNDOWN

The Mineral Wells football program began in 1910, though sustained success has been elusive. While the team boasts district championships, including a notable 1985 season, their playoff performances have been limited, with just four wins in the program's history. The Rams continue to build with hopes for greater success in future seasons. With a 7-4 record in 2024, current head coach Cody Worrell has helped rekindle the team's competitive fire.

BY THE NUMBERS

Class - 4A Division II

Enrollment - 931

Location - Mineral Wells, Texas — about 50 miles west of Fort Worth

TROPHY CASE

State Championships - 0 

State Championships by Appearance - 0 

District Championships - 6 (most recent: 2010) 

Playoff Appearances - 21 (most recent: 2024) 

GLORY DAYS

When weighing historical impact, the 2015 campaign edges ahead as the most memorable. Under the direction of Gerald Perry, the Rams not only captured bi-district and area titles but also closed out a 10-3 season that sparked the greatest three-year stretch the program has ever seen (2015–17). 

THE GOAT

Adrian Colbert’s journey from Mineral Wells to the NFL solidifies his legacy as the program’s most accomplished player. A three-year starter, Colbert recorded 228 tackles, seven interceptions, 17 pass breakups, four forced fumbles, and two sacks. He went on to play for the Texas Longhorns and Miami Hurricanes before enjoying an impressive run in the NFL, currently rostered by the Chicago Bears. DCTF ranked him No. 16 overall and No. 2 safety in Texas, while 247Sports rated him No. 13 in the state and No. 97 nationally.

THE ARCHITECT

The 1985 Rams, led by Joe Cluley Sr., posted a perfect regular season and finished 11-1—a legendary run that ended with a one-point loss to Brownwood and legendary Gordon Wood in the first round of the playoffs.  

BATTLE LINES

There was a time when nothing fired up Mineral Wells quite like a showdown with Weatherford. But with the Kangaroos now up in 6A, it’s the Graham Steers who carry the rivalry torch. These two first clashed in 1915—a 13-0 Rams win—and 110 years later, they’re still battling it out. In 2025, the stakes are as high as ever with Mineral Wells and Graham jockeying for position atop District 3-4A Division II.

HOME TURF

Ram Stadium - Nothing screams Texas high school football like a 4A stadium with a video scoreboard, press box elevator, and turf field—and Ram Stadium checks every box. Built in 2008, it’s one of the state’s most iconic venues.Located in Palo Pinto County, it’s been home to the Rams for 18 seasons and has hosted countless playoff matchups across multiple classifications.

THE YEAR THAT WAS

The Rams returned to the postseason under the direction of Cody Worrell, and the program’s arrow continues to point up. One of the state’s top young coaches, Worrell earned a spot on Dave Campbell’s prestigious 40 Under 40 list in 2024—and he backed it up. He led Mineral Wells to its best season since 2015, finishing third in district and developing the program’s first major recruit in years: Texas Tech tight end signee Preztynn Harrison.

LOOKING AHEAD

The Rams will return 10 starters in 2025. Leading the way is two-way standout Trent Yowell, who followed up his District Newcomer of the Year honor in 2023 by claiming Defensive Player of the Year in 2024. The biggest question mark is at quarterback following the graduation of Owen Gadd, but the Rams are in good shape up front with a strong offensive line to lean on. Keep an eye on 2025 ATHs Jaidun Fisher and Jackson Hicks—two dynamic playmakers every Rams fan (and opponent) needs to know.

X'S AND O'S

Offense - Multiple

Defense - 4-3

ON THE RISE

The recruiting fan in me can’t help but get fired up about the name Javawn McKinney. Coaches are buzzing about his upside, and at 6-foot-4, 305 pounds, he’s the kind of prospect who could turn heads at the FBS level. You won’t find much online about this young giant—yet. But that’s why you come to Dave Campbell’s, right?

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

"Mineral Wells is a neat and unique community. It is an excellent location with slow growth coming. Mineral Wells has only won 4 playoff games in the history of their football program, which started in 1910. Two of those wins came from one team (2015). The Mineral Wells community is hungry for success, and it just takes time to establish a winning culture." - Mineral Wells head coach Cody Worrell