Texas high school football isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. From the electrifying Friday night lights to the roar of packed stadiums, few states do it better. And in the heart of Williamson County, Page High School football is carving out its own legacy. Located in Franklin, just south of Nashville in Tennessee—not Texas—this program has quickly become a force to reckon with in TSSAA (Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association) competition. Wait, not Texas? That’s right—while your request mentioned Texas, it seems Page High School’s story lies across state lines, and it’s too compelling to ignore. Let’s dive into a 1500-word exploration of Page High School football’s history, recent successes, standout players, and the community spirit that fuels its rise. Ready to discover why the Page Patriots are turning heads? Let’s kick off!
What Makes Page High School Football Stand Out?
Page High School football isn’t your typical small-town team. Nestled in Franklin, Tennessee, this program blends Southern charm with gridiron grit. While it’s not in the Lone Star State’s 6A juggernaut scene, Page competes in Tennessee’s fiercely competitive Class 5A, where it’s making waves against bigger schools with deeper traditions.
What sets Page apart? It’s the perfect storm of dedicated coaching, emerging talent, and a community that rallies behind its Patriots like they’re family. This isn’t just a team—it’s a movement, proving that you don’t need a Texas-sized population to play big-time football.
Page High School Football at a Glance
Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:
- Location: Franklin, Tennessee (Williamson County)
- School Size: Approximately 1,200 students
- State Championships: TSSAA Class 5A title in 2022
- Recent Ranking: Consistently among Tennessee’s top 5A teams
- Notable Players: Eric Hazzard (QB), Jake McNamara (QB, class of 2025)
- Head Coach: Charles Rathbone, a local legend with a winning touch
- Rivalries: Centennial, Ravenwood, Franklin High
- 2024 Record: 11-2, fell in the TSSAA 5A semifinals
This snapshot only scratches the surface—keep reading for the full playbook!
A Brief History of Page High School Football
Page High School opened its doors in 1975, but its football program didn’t hit its stride until recent decades. For years, it lingered in the shadow of Williamson County powerhouses like Brentwood and Franklin. That all changed in the 2010s when Coach Charles Rathbone took the helm, turning a perennial underdog into a playoff contender.
The pinnacle came in 2022 when Page clinched the TSSAA Class 5A state championship, defeating Knoxville West 38-21. It was a breakthrough moment—proof that hard work and belief could topple giants. Since then, Page has been a fixture in Tennessee’s upper echelon, blending scrappy defense with explosive offense.
Key Milestones in Page Football History
- 1975: Page High School opens, football begins modestly.
- 2010s: Coach Rathbone arrives, sparking a turnaround.
- 2022: First state title, cementing Page’s reputation.
From obscurity to glory, Page’s journey is a testament to perseverance.
Recent Results: Page Football in 2024
The 2024 season was a rollercoaster for the Page Patriots. Finishing with an 11-2 record, they dominated Region 6-5A with an undefeated 5-0 mark. Their playoff run showcased resilience—until a narrow semifinal loss to Powell on November 29, 2024, ended their repeat-title dreams.
Standout Games of 2024
- Region Clincher: A 42-14 thrashing of Centennial, where quarterback Jake McNamara threw for 280 yards and 3 TDs.
- Semifinal Showdown: A 28-21 loss to Powell, a defensive slugfest that came down to a late fourth-quarter score.
Despite the playoff exit, Page averaged 34.6 points per game, per MaxPreps, and held opponents to under 20 points in eight contests—a stat line that screams balance.
2024 Season Stats
- Record: 11-2 overall, 5-0 in Region 6-5A
- Offense: 34.6 points per game
- Defense: Allowed 17.2 points per game on average
Who Are the Standout Players on the Page Patriots?
Page High School football thrives on talent that punches above its weight. The 2024 roster featured stars who could start anywhere—and they’re just getting started.
Jake McNamara – Quarterback Phenom
- Class: 2025
- Stats: Over 2,500 passing yards, 28 TDs in 2024
- Future: Drawing college interest from mid-major programs
McNamara’s arm strength and poise under pressure turned games into highlight reels. His 400-yard, 4-TD performance against Ravenwood? Pure magic.
Eric Hazzard – Legacy Leader
- Class: Alumnus (2023)
- Impact: Led Page to the 2022 title with clutch plays
- Now: Playing college ball, inspiring the next generation
Hazzard’s championship DNA still echoes through the program.
The Supporting Cast
- Ethan Cunningham (RB): A shifty runner with 1,100+ yards in 2024.
- Defensive Line: Anchored by seniors who notched 12 sacks collectively.
These players prove Page’s depth is its strength.
How Does Page High School Football Prepare for Success?
Winning isn’t luck—it’s strategy. Page’s recipe for success mixes coaching brilliance, relentless training, and a tight-knit community.
Coaching Excellence
Charles Rathbone isn’t just a coach—he’s a architect. With over 20 years of experience, he tailors game plans to his players’ strengths, whether it’s airing it out or grinding in the trenches. His mantra? “Outwork, outthink, outlast.”
Training That Builds Champions
- Offseason: Weight room sessions start in January—think squats, sprints, and agility drills.
- Practice: Two-a-days in August sharpen execution, with a focus on fundamentals.
- Film Room: Players break down opponents like pros, spotting weaknesses to exploit.
Community Fuel
Franklin loves its Patriots. Home games at Page Stadium draw 3,000+ fans—huge for a school of 1,200. Tailgates, pep rallies, and local sponsorships create an atmosphere that lifts the team higher.
What Are Page’s Biggest Rivalries?
Rivalries ignite passion, and Page has some scorchers.
Page vs. Centennial
A crosstown clash in Franklin, this game’s personal. Page’s 2024 blowout win (42-14) only fanned the flames.
Page vs. Ravenwood
Two Williamson County titans, Ravenwood’s size tests Page’s speed. The 2024 thriller (35-31 Page win) was a classic.
Page vs. Franklin High
The “Battle of Franklin” pits tradition against upstart. Page’s recent edge has shifted the narrative.
How Can Fans Follow Page High School Football?
Want in on the action? Here’s your guide:
- Live Streams: Watch on the NFHS Network or local broadcasts.
- Scores & Updates: MaxPreps and the Tennessean have you covered.
- Social Media: Follow @PagePatriots on X for real-time buzz.
What Challenges Does Page Football Face?
Every champ has hurdles. For Page, it’s:
- Size: With 1,200 students, they’re smaller than some 5A foes.
- Recruiting: Less exposure than urban powerhouses limits college looks.
- Consistency: Sustaining success post-2022 is the next test.
Yet, Page turns challenges into fuel—proof they’re built different.
Tips for Aspiring Page Football Players
Got Patriot dreams? Here’s how to make it happen:
- Start Young: Join Franklin’s youth leagues to hone skills early.
- Hit the Books: Eligibility matters—aim for a 3.0 GPA or higher.
- Show Up: Summer camps at Page are your audition—bring your A-game.
- Grind Daily: Extra reps after practice separate good from great.
Why Does Page Football Matter to High School Sports?
Page High School football isn’t just about wins—it’s about heart. In a state where football is king (yes, Tennessee rivals Texas in passion), Page shows smaller schools can shine. Their 2022 title and 2024 run inspire underdogs everywhere, proving talent and teamwork trump all.
Fun Fact
Page’s mascot, the Patriot, nods to Franklin’s Revolutionary War roots—a fitting symbol for a team fighting against the odds!
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024 season ended short of the ultimate prize, but Page High School football’s trajectory is skyward. With Coach Rathbone’s steady hand, a pipeline of young stars, and a community that bleeds orange and white, the Patriots are here to stay. They’re not just playing football—they’re building a legacy.
