High school football is a cornerstone of Texas culture, where the passion for the game runs deep. But with the intense pressure to win, allegations of cheating have become an unfortunate reality in some programs.

One East Texas high school football coach is facing some serious allegations that could lead to his team being forced to forfeit games in the middle of a perfect season and a current top 10 ranking in the state.

Palestine Westwood head coach Richard Bishop has been recommended for suspension for the rest of the 2024 season.

In a story first reported by Dave Campbell's Texas Football, Westwood High coach Richard Bishop was recommended for suspension following a District 9-3A Division 1 committee meeting following allegations that he videotaped opponents signals while scouting.

The committee added that Westwood and Bishop's violations were "intentional, serious and egregious decisions" disregarding the rules of fair play. The committee is making its recommendation to suspend to the UIL State Executive Committee who will have the final say.

The Committee Also Recommended That The Panthers Football Team Forfeit All  Of Its District Games.

Palestine Westwood is currently undefeated in district play and 7-0 overall with a top 10 ranking in some state high school polls. The committee recommended that district forfeit its wins so far and forfeit the wins of any games that they haven't played yet.

The committee also suspended an unnamed Westwood ISD employee from all district athletic events for the rest of the season.

Westwood ISD Plans To Appeal The Rulings.

District Superintendent Wade Stanford told KETK that the alleged recordings were done by a Westwood ISD staff member who’s not with the athletic department who was simply sitting next to Coach Bishop and they sent the video to a friend in Virginia to show off what Texas High School Football is like.

In the meantime, Westwood will take on Teague Friday night at home.