Melissa Is No. 19 in Texas. Its First Two Opponents Are No. 16 and No. 11.

Melissa has spent recent seasons climbing into the conversation among the state's better programs. The 2026 schedule tests that standing immediately.

The Cardinals, ranked No. 19 in Texas and No. 61 nationally by On3, open at home Friday, Aug. 28 against Pulaski Academy, ranked No. 16. On Sept. 4 they host Guyer, ranked No. 11 in the state.

A schedule without soft spots

After those two, Melissa travels to Rockwall, ranked No. 37, on Thursday, Sept. 10. Lone Star, ranked No. 34, also appears on the slate. The Cardinals play 10 regular-season games, several against teams ranked in the state's top 40.

Why the opening matters

Two home games against top-20 opposition to start a season is an unusual way to schedule, and it front-loads the risk. It also means that by the second week of September, Melissa and everyone watching will have a clear read on whether this team belongs where the preseason rankings placed it.

The opener kicks off Friday, Aug. 28. Rankings are On3's preseason Texas rankings.

Source: On3.

Sources

https://www.on3.com/high-school/scores/football/texas/