The stage is set for one of the most anticipated matchups in Alabama high school football this fall. The Auburn Tigers (1-1) will travel to face the Opelika Bulldogs (2-0) in a conference clash under the Thursday night lights on September 4, 2025, at 7 p.m. The game will be played at Opelika High School and streamed live on the NFHS Network, making it accessible to fans across the state.
This rivalry has always carried weight in Alabama football, but this season’s matchup feels especially significant. Both teams bring different strengths, and the outcome could influence their momentum heading deeper into the season.
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Game Information at a Glance
- Matchup: Auburn Tigers vs Opelika Bulldogs
- Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: Opelika High School (Opelika, AL)
- Watch: Live on NFHS Network
- Conference Game: Yes
This game is more than just a local rivalry. Both Auburn and Opelika are striving to prove themselves within Alabama’s competitive Class 7A ranks.
Team Records and Rankings
| Team | Overall | Home | Away | Win % | Points For (PF) | Points Against (PA) | State Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn | 1-1 | 1-0 | 0-1 | .500 | 38 | 48 | #3 in AL |
| Opelika | 2-0 | 1-0 | 1-0 | 1.000 | 61 | 55 | #12 in AL |
- Auburn sits at #57 nationally and #3 in Alabama, showing they’re still one of the top programs in the state despite an even record.
- Opelika is ranked #312 nationally and #12 in Alabama, but their 2-0 start shows they are climbing quickly.
Scoring Averages
| Quarter | Auburn Avg. | Opelika Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 1.5 | 6.0 |
| Q2 | 10.5 | 13.0 |
| Q3 | 7.0 | 0.0 |
| Q4 | 0.0 | 6.0 |
| Final | 19.0 | 30.5 |
Takeaway: Opelika has shown more offensive consistency, especially in the first half. Auburn has been stronger in the second quarter but struggles in closing out games.
Offensive and Defensive Comparisons
| Category | Auburn | Opelika |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards Per Game | 60.0 | 154.0 |
| Passing Yards Per Game | 147.0 | 171.0 |
| Receiving Yards Per Game | 148.0 | 171.0 |
| Total Yards Per Game | 207.0 | 325.0 |
| Tackles Per Game | 69.0 | 70.0 |
| Sacks Per Game | — | 3.5 |
| Points Per Game | 7.0 | 30.5 |
| Pancake Blocks | — | 25 |
Analysis:
- Opelika clearly dominates in offensive production, averaging more than 300 total yards per game.
- Auburn relies heavily on the passing game but hasn’t yet established a strong running attack.
- Defensively, both teams are close in tackles, but Opelika’s pass rush (3.5 sacks per game) could become a difference-maker.
Key Players to Watch
Auburn Tigers
- #0 Jayden Huff – 29 rushing yards per game
- #15 Cason Myers – 147 passing yards per game, 159 total yards per game
- #7 Joshua Askew – 72 receiving yards per game
- #10 Aiden Parker – 10 tackles per game
Opelika Bulldogs
- #3 CJ Johnson – 56 rushing yards per game
- #5 Colby Key – 171 passing yards per game, 168 total yards per game
- #18 Dre Vann – 47 receiving yards per game
- #90 Tremaine Thomas – 8 tackles and 3 sacks per game
- #75 Darius Whitlow – 6 pancake blocks
Player Spotlight: Opelika’s quarterback Colby Key has been outstanding with his passing numbers, while defensive lineman Tremaine Thomas adds serious pressure with 3 sacks per game. Auburn’s Cason Myers will need to stay sharp under that kind of pressure.
Common Opponents and Upcoming Games
Both Auburn and Opelika will face similar opponents later this season, including Enterprise, JAG, Central, Smiths Station, Carver Montgomery, and Dothan. These common matchups will serve as benchmarks for comparing both programs.
- Auburn faces Enterprise on September 12.
- Opelika meets Enterprise on October 10.
These shared games will provide further clarity on how both teams stack up in the region.
What’s at Stake?
This rivalry game isn’t just about bragging rights. Here’s why it matters:
- Momentum: Opelika wants to keep its undefeated start alive. Auburn needs a bounce-back win to stay near the top of the Alabama Class 7A rankings.
- Playoff Seeding: Early-season conference victories can shape playoff positioning down the stretch.
- Community Pride: Auburn vs Opelika always draws a passionate crowd, and this year’s Thursday night showcase will be no different.
FAQs: Auburn vs Opelika
Q: When is the Auburn vs Opelika game?
A: Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Q: Where is the game being played?
A: Opelika High School, Opelika, Alabama.
Q: How can I watch the game live?
A: The game will be streamed live on the NFHS Network.
Q: What are the team records going into the game?
A: Auburn is 1-1, while Opelika is 2-0.
Q: Who are the standout players?
A: Auburn’s QB Cason Myers and WR Joshua Askew are key offensive threats. Opelika’s QB Colby Key and DE Tremaine Thomas have been major impact players.
Q: Where can I find more Alabama high school football coverage?
A: Visit HS Football Insider’s Alabama page for full coverage of Alabama high school football.
Q: How do I follow games from my state?
A: You can find your school and state coverage at Find Your School.
Conclusion
The Auburn vs Opelika rivalry game on September 4, 2025, promises to be one of the must-watch matchups in Alabama high school football. Auburn enters needing to prove its top-three state ranking is justified, while Opelika seeks to continue its strong start behind an efficient offense and aggressive defense.
Fans should expect a hard-fought game where Opelika’s balanced attack will clash with Auburn’s determination to rebound from early struggles. Regardless of the outcome, this Thursday night showdown will showcase why high school football in Alabama continues to captivate communities and fans alike.
