BROWNWOOD — Whatever success the Brownwood Lions achieve in 2026 may be less a case of execution than survival. To put it bluntly, Brownwood’s first six games of this season could very well be the toughest row of opponents faced by any Class 4A DII team in Texas. 

If the young Lions can come out of their non-district portion reasonably healthy (regardless of record), they could be battle-hardened enough to snag a playoff spot by season’s end. 

So how difficult is this slate?  How about a road game at Class 5A Wylie (Aug. 28), followed by home dates with state 4A DI state champion Stephenville (Sept. 4) and perennial toughie Springtown (Sept. 11). A road date with 4A regional contender Graham will come on Sept. 18 and a road date at always tough China Spring will follow a week later. 

If that isn’t tough enough, the Lions will begin play in District 13-4A DII on Oct. 9 against another perennial power, Waco La Vega, at Gordon Wood Stadium.