Amarillo boasts a vibrant sports culture, encompassing high school rivalries, collegiate competitions, and national events that capture the community’s enthusiasm.
High School Football: The Sandies’ Legacy
Amarillo High School’s football team, the Sandies, has a storied history dating back to 1908. With an impressive overall record of 828-387-22, the team has secured four state playoff championships in 1934, 1935, 1936, and 1940. The annual matchup against Tascosa High School, known as “Hell Week,” is a highlight of the season, drawing significant local attention.
Amarillo College Athletics: A Resurgence
Amarillo College has recently revitalized its athletic programs, introducing men’s baseball, women’s softball, and cross-country teams. The college competes in NJCAA Division I, with 79 student-athletes participating across four varsity teams. The baseball team has shown promise, splitting a doubleheader against Blinn College earlier this year.
National Sports: Upcoming NFL Preseason Games
As the NFL preseason approaches, fans can look forward to several matchups:
- Carolina Panthers at Arizona Cardinals on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 5:00 PM PDT
- Detroit Lions at Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 4:00 PM PDT
- Green Bay Packers at Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 4:00 PM PDT
- Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 4:30 PM PDT
- Arizona Cardinals at Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM PDT
- Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM PDT
- Tennessee Titans at San Francisco 49ers on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM PDT
- Miami Dolphins at Washington Commanders on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 4:00 PM PDT
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New York Jets on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 4:00 PM PDT
- Denver Broncos at Atlanta Falcons on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 4:00 PM PDT
- Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM PDT
- Minnesota Vikings at New York Giants on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM PDT
- Carolina Panthers at Buffalo Bills on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM PDT
- Jacksonville Jaguars at New Orleans Saints on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM PDT
- Los Angeles Rams at Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM PDT
- Philadelphia Eagles at Baltimore Ravens on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM PDT
- Dallas Cowboys at Seattle Seahawks on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM PDT
- Las Vegas Raiders at Houston Texans on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM PDT
- San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 7:00 PM PDT
- New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 4:00 PM PDT
These games offer fans a glimpse into team dynamics and player performances ahead of the regular season.
Amarillo’s sports scene continues to thrive, reflecting the community’s passion and commitment to athletic excellence.