In a clash that spans generations, the Odessa Permian Panthers and Odessa Bronchos renew their storied rivalry in the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series. Since its inception in 1959, this showdown has captivated the West Texas community, drawing crowds of 18,000 to 20,000 faithful to Ratliff Stadium. 

The Panthers hold a commanding 45-10 lead in the all-time series, but the Bronchos come into this year’s matchup emboldened by their thrilling overtime victory last season, ending a decade-long drought against Permian. In 2023, they mounted an incredible comeback from a 21-7 deficit to seize a 49-42 win. 

With Permian boasting 7 NFL alumni and Odessa claiming 3 of their own, this clash isn’t just about local pride—it’s a showcase of football excellence. 

Who will prevail under the Friday night lights? Join us for the gridiron drama, because in West Texas, football is more than just a game! 

We Know Friday Nights 

  

MVP

Gavin Black
Odessa Permian

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Aaron Padilla-Guevara

Odessa Permian

Aaron is a member of the National Honor Society. He is also a member of AVID. He is a great leader within our school and on our team. Aaron is a proud Panther, and we look forward to seeing him accomplish great things moving forward!
Benjamin Matthews

Odessa

Benjamin plays football for Odessa High. He has been a person that will do his best at everything that he does. He is an outstanding individual. He represents everything we want and expect from a Bronchos. His is a great young man who is going to do amazing things moving forward.

GAME SUMMARY

Football is more than just a game in West Texas and that rang true on Friday night as a packed Ratliff Stadium came to see one of the country's best rivalries. Permian got off to a hot start, recording a safety and a kick return touchdown with-in the first 4 minutes. The Bronchos battled back on their next drive, scoring through the air to make it 9-6 after a missed 2 point conversion. The Permian ground attack got started when gamer MVP Gavin Black broke off a 60-yard run that set-up his first touchdown of the night, giving Permian a 16-6 lead. Permian forced a punt, which led to Gavin Black's second rushing TD of the night, making it 22-7. This ignited the Bronchos offense as they scored touchdowns on their next two drives to make it a 22-20 Permian lead heading into halftime. Gavin Black dominated the second half scoring another three rushing TDs, to make it 5 on the night. This tied him for the school record for most TDs in a game with legendary "Friday Night Lights" running back, Chris Comer who scored 5 in a game during Permian's 1989 state title winning season. The Permian defense made some adjustments at halftime, locking up the Bronchos offense, only allowing 6 second half points. Permian took home "W" in the "Rumble at Ratliff" by a final score of 50-26. Despite the lopsided final score, the game was tight and a battle the whole way under some of the most famous 'Friday Night Lights' in Texas.