GAINESVILLE, Texas — Four Cooke County high school football teams will take the field this week in the first round of the UIL state playoffs, marking a strong showing for local athletics. The Muenster Hornets (8-2) lead the charge, facing Cross Plains (4-6) at 7 p.m. Thursday at Mineral Wells Ram Stadium. The Hornets, competing in 2A Division II, enter the playoffs as one of the stronger teams in their bracket. Lindsay Knights also begin their playoff run Thursday at 7 p.m., traveling to Iowa Park to face Hamlin in 2A Division I competition. The Knights dominated regular season play, outscoring opponents significantly through district competition. The Callisburg Wildcats (5-5) secured their first playoff appearance in two years with a decisive 42-8 victory over S&S in their final regular season game. Callisburg faces Cedar Hill Trinity Leadership School (8-2) at 7 p.m. Friday at Fort Worth's Doskocil Stadium in 3A Division II action. Saint Jo rounds out the county's playoff representatives, taking on Milford at 7 p.m. Thursday at Keller Timber Creek in six-man competition. The 2025 UIL state football playoffs run through December 20, with championship games scheduled for AT&T Stadium in Arlington. First-round action begins Thursday with 188 games across all classifications. All four Cooke County teams face critical tests in bi-district play, with winners advancing to the area round the following week. The Hornets and Knights enter as favorites based on their regular season records, while Callisburg looks to build momentum from their playoff-clinching win. Game times and locations are subject to change. Fans should check with their respective schools for the latest information and ticket availability.