On Oct. 10, 2025, the Plant Panthers hosted the Wharton Wildcats for the Panthers’ annual homecoming football game at Dad’s Stadium. Plant won the game 28–12, moving its overall record to 3–4 for this season. The matchup featured steady scoring from both teams and a strong defensive effort on both sides.
Wharton took the first lead of the night with a field goal early in the first quarter, giving the Wildcats three points. Later in the quarter, Wharton added a safety, bringing the score to 5–0. Plant’s defense prevented further scoring, and the quarter ended with Wharton holding a five-point advantage.
In the second quarter, Plant responded with its first touchdown. Quarterback Tripp Brown (12) completed a pass to Deron Manuel (12) for the score, and the extra point put Plant ahead 7–5. Neither team scored again before halftime, and Plant went into the break with a narrow lead.
Both teams increased offensive production in the third quarter. Plant added two touchdowns, one from Townsend Evans (12) and another from Cedric Rogers (12). Wharton scored one touchdown in the same period, bringing the total to 21–12 by the end of the second quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Nick Girsch (12) scored another touchdown for Plant. Davie Rolle (12) added four points from two successful kicks, setting the final score at 28–12. Plant’s defense kept Wharton from scoring during the remainder of the game.
Several players contributed defensively. Ja’Quez Estera (12) recorded nine tackles and eight assists. DJ Ford (10) had four tackles, while Zyrohn Canady (12) and Trae Brown (12) each finished with three tackles. Charlie Sansone (12) and Adrian Evans (10) each registered one sack. The defensive unit limited Wharton’s scoring opportunities throughout the second half.
Plant’s offensive total included four touchdowns and two successful kicks. The team capitalized on scoring drives in the middle quarters after a slow start. Wharton opened with early points, but Plant took the lead after the first quarter and moved forward. Both teams maintained steady defensive performances, keeping the game competitive throughout most of regulation.
The win improved Plant’s record to 3–4, while Wharton moved to 2–5. The game also marked Plant’s homecoming, which drew a large crowd of students and community members. Despite the occasion, gameplay remained focused and followed standard season form for both programs.
Plant will next face Berkeley Prep in a non-league matchup. Berkeley holds a 2–4 record after a 19–7 win over Tampa Catholic in its previous game. Plant will continue its schedule, looking to reach a .500 record as the season progresses, according to MaxPreps.
The game concluded with consistent performances on offense and defense from both teams, resulting in an even pace and balanced scoring distribution across four quarters. The contest reflected mid-season adjustments and provided both teams with opportunities to evaluate strategies for upcoming games.
The game was filled with cheering students and teachers in honor of Homecoming week traditions, which carried into the dance.