Abilene Reporter-News opens athlete of the week voting for high school football

The Abilene Reporter-News has released its list of finalists for the City National Bank Big Country High School Athlete of the Week for the period of Aug. 24-30. Nominees include performers from across the state following the opening of the 2026 Texas high school football season. Candidates such as Lane Couch of De Leon, who recorded 348 rushing yards and four touchdowns, and Forsan’s Ellis Ashton, who contributed three touchdowns in an overtime victory, represent schools including Stamford, Albany, and Bangs. Readers are invited to vote for their selection through the publication's online poll. The voting period closes at 5 p.m. this Friday, with the winner to be announced shortly thereafter. Coaches and school representatives may continue submitting nominations for future consideration by email.

• 8:03 AMYahoo Sports — Vote for Big Country Athlete of the Week for Aug. 24-30, presented by City National Bank