The Montgomery Catholic (Montgomery, AL) varsity football team will host Saint James (Montgomery, AL) tonight at 7 p.m. in a non-conference matchup. Fans can anticipate an exciting evening of high school football, with both teams competing with determination, skill, and teamwork, promising spirited action and memorable plays under the Friday night lights.

Here’s what you need to know:

• What: Alabama High School Football
• Who: Florence vs Hillcrest
• When: Friday, August 22, 2025
• Time: 7:00 p.m.
• Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Hillcrest at Florence: Friday Night Football Preview

The 2025 high school football season in Alabama kicks off with an exciting non-conference matchup as the Florence Falcons host the Hillcrest Patriots from Tuscaloosa. Kickoff is scheduled for Friday, August 22, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Florence High School. Both teams enter the contest with 0-0 records, making this season opener a key opportunity to set the tone for the year.

Season Opener Stakes

Season openers carry extra significance in high school football. Beyond the win-loss record, they provide an opportunity for coaches to evaluate talent, test new offensive and defensive schemes, and build team chemistry under competitive conditions. For Florence, playing at home offers a chance to energize the local fan base and establish early momentum. Hillcrest, traveling from Tuscaloosa, will aim to challenge the host team and make a strong statement to start the season.

Rankings and Program Context

Both programs are respected in Alabama football circles:

• Hillcrest Patriots (0-0)

  • National Rank: 458

  • Alabama Rank: 15

  • Class: 8

• Florence Falcons (0-0)

  • National Rank: 2,215

  • Alabama Rank: 61

  • Class: 20

Hillcrest enters with higher national and state rankings, reflecting a history of strong performance and a program accustomed to competing at a high level. Florence, while ranked lower, benefits from home-field advantage and the motivation to make an early impression on the season. This matchup sets up an interesting contrast between a highly regarded visiting program and a determined home team.

Record Breakdown

With both teams at the start of the season, each enters with clean slates:

• Hillcrest (0-0)

  • Overall: 0-0

  • League: 0-0

  • Non-League: 0-0

  • Home: 0-0

  • Away: 0-0

• Florence (0-0)

  • Overall: 0-0

  • League: 0-0

  • Non-League: 0-0

  • Home: 0-0

  • Away: 0-0

This season opener provides both teams a chance to gauge strengths, test strategies, and build confidence as they look ahead to league play.

Key Storylines

1. Early Momentum Matters:
The first game of the season is pivotal for building confidence and establishing team identity. Winning the opener can provide a boost that carries into subsequent matchups.

2. Home-Field Advantage for Florence:
Playing at home gives the Falcons familiarity with the field, supportive fans, and the comfort of being in a familiar environment. This advantage can help dictate the pace of play and energize the team.

3. Non-Conference Challenge:
Facing a strong out-of-district opponent like Hillcrest offers both programs a benchmark to evaluate their readiness and adaptability before league games begin.

4. Program Pride and Community Energy:
High school football in Alabama is a major community event. Friday night lights bring students, families, and local supporters together, creating an electric atmosphere that can influence the game’s momentum.

Keys to Victory

For Florence Falcons:

• Control the Tempo: Use home-field advantage to dictate pace and manage the clock.

• Defensive Consistency: Minimize big plays and create turnover opportunities.

• Balanced Offense: Establish the run and pass games to keep Hillcrest off balance.

• In-Game Adjustments: Respond effectively to Hillcrest’s strategies as the game progresses.

For Hillcrest Patriots:

• Stay Composed on the Road: Maintain focus despite traveling and playing in a hostile environment.

• Capitalize on Opportunities: Convert turnovers or mistakes into scoring opportunities.

• Strong Fundamentals: Avoid penalties and mistakes that could swing momentum.

• Efficient Execution: Sustain drives and execute key plays when needed.

Community and Atmosphere

Friday night football in Florence is more than a game—it’s a community gathering. Local fans, students, and alumni bring energy to the stadium, and the crowd can significantly influence the atmosphere. Florence’s home supporters will aim to give the Falcons a morale boost, while Hillcrest’s traveling fans will bring intensity to support their team. This game promises a lively and competitive environment under the Friday night lights.

Narrative Highlights

1. Ranking Contrast: Hillcrest’s higher national and state ranking creates expectations of strong performance, while Florence looks to leverage home advantage.

2. Fresh Start: Both teams start 0-0, making every play significant for early-season momentum.

3. Momentum Building: A season-opening win can boost confidence and establish a positive narrative for the team.

4. Road vs. Home Dynamic: Hillcrest faces the challenge of performing away, while Florence can rely on familiar surroundings.

5. Non-Conference Test: Both teams will learn how well they match up against unfamiliar opponents, which can inform adjustments for future games.

Game Outlook

Expect a competitive matchup with potential momentum swings. Florence will look to utilize home-field advantage, disciplined execution, and strong fundamentals to keep pace with Hillcrest. Hillcrest, as a highly ranked opponent, will challenge the Falcons with their own disciplined strategies, seeking to assert dominance early in the season. Key factors such as turnovers, special teams play, and in-game adjustments are likely to determine the outcome.

The first half will be critical as both teams evaluate schemes, identify weaknesses, and attempt to establish control. Fans can anticipate an engaging contest with spirited play and a high-energy environment reflective of Alabama high school football traditions.

Conclusion

The Hillcrest Patriots travel to face the Florence Falcons in what promises to be a thrilling non-conference season opener. Both teams enter with clean slates, emphasizing the importance of early momentum, disciplined play, and strategic execution. Hillcrest looks to assert dominance as a nationally ranked program, while Florence aims to leverage home-field advantage and make a statement in front of its community.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Florence High School, where fans, students, and community members will gather under the Friday night lights to witness the start of the 2025 season. With competitive play, local pride, and high stakes for early momentum, this game is a must-watch opener for Alabama high school football enthusiasts.