They say everything is bigger in Texas and this Texas-sized story involves the most well-known high school football team in the nation, thanks to Hollywood.

Permian (Odessa, Texas) was a regional powerhouse that won the state championship 1965, 1972, 1980 and 1984. Armed with a talented squad, the Panthers were poised to challenge for the state championship again in 1988.

The season was chronicled by journalist H. G. Bissinger in his memorable book “Friday Night Lights,” which was later turned into a hugely successful film starring Billy Bob Thornton.

The movie had such an impact that it caused art to imitate life. While playing college football at Mississippi State, former Buffalo Bills fullback Anthony Dixon was given the nickname “Boobie” in honor of James “Boobie” Miles. Teammates saw similarities between Dixon and Miles, who was the star fullback for Permian in 1988.

There can be no question, Friday Night Lights continues to influence our perception of high school football and its intersection with the local community, which is why this 30 for 30 is so unique.

Rarely is the opportunity provided to movie-goers to find out what happened after the lights came up and the credits run.

The climax of the season for the Panthers was the state semifinal game against Carter (Dallas). Permian unexpectedly lost in heartbreaking fashion to Carter, who would go on to win the state championship. Here is that scene from the movie:

It is a chapter in the story of the 1988 Permian team that always felt incomplete. Many wanted to know more about the team that beat the mighty Permian and won the state championship. That opportunity may be available on ESPN in the future.

Although production is still in the early stages, thus a specific air-date for the documentary has not yet been determined, the 30 for 30 documentary has already conducted numerous interviews with members of the team.

Interestingly, there is already a dramatic movie that covers Carter during its 1988 championship season. The film was written and directed by Arthur Mohammad, who was a wide receiver on the squad. The movie is titled “Carter High.”

 

Photo courtesy of Facebook/Carter High: The Movie