In 2024, the Texas high school football scene underwent a historic change. For the first time ever, the UIL allowed in-game video for high school football teams, opening new opportunities for coaches to analyze and adjust during games. However, this rule change came with a unique caveat: video could only be viewed in the press box, not on the sidelines. Despite this limitation, the Midlothian High School Panthers embraced the new technology and delivered an impressive 10-3 season, narrowly falling short in the Regional Finals by just 4 points.
We sat down with Midlothian’s Defensive Coordinator, Dean Young, to discuss their experience using GameStrat’s sideline replay system for the first time this season and the advantages it provided to their team.
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It was a game changer. Having the ability to make corrections in real time rather than relying on other people to spot things was huge for our program.
Photo Credits: Doug McMahan
Before switching to GameStrat, Coach Young stated that Midlothian had experimented with Hudl Sideline. Unfortunately, the team ran into several issues with the system that prevented them from fully utilizing the technology. The frustrations were mounting until they made the switch to GameStrat.
It was great. We switched over from another company that was giving us issues. We couldn’t get their system to work properly, and it caused a lot of frustration. When we made the switch to GameStrat, it made all the difference. We had no issues setting it up, and we were receiving the clips instantaneously.
As in-game video becomes more commonplace across the state of Texas, the question isn’t whether teams should use it, but whether they can afford not to. Coach Young believes the gap between teams that use technology and those that don’t will only grow wider.
Absolutely. For any teams in Texas not using this technology I think they’re at a huge disadvantage right now.
Photo Credits: Doug McMahan
For defensive coordinators like Coach Young, the ability to get a clear, comprehensive view of every play is invaluable in live game environments. GameStrat allowed him to focus on the big picture and make quick adjustments, as opposed to guessing or relying on what other people are seeing.
The biggest thing is I’m able to see the whole picture, and I’m not relying on other people to look at the linebackers or defensive line. After a play or series, I can see everything and can make the corrections that need to be made.
The above story is from our partners at GameStrat
