The First Academy (Orlando, FL) varsity football team will host a home non-conference matchup against Central High School (Phenix City, AL) on Friday, August 29 at 7 p.m. This exciting early-season contest brings together two competitive programs, promising fans an action-packed evening under the Friday night lights.
Game Information
- Matchup: The First Academy vs Central
- Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
The First Academy vs Central: Florida Hosts Alabama Powerhouse in Non-Conference Clash
High school football fans are in for an early-season treat as The First Academy vs Central headlines the schedule on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7 p.m. The matchup will be played in Orlando, Florida, where The First Academy (TFA) hosts Central of Phenix City, Alabama, in what promises to be a test of endurance, depth, and execution.
Both teams enter the contest with very different starts to the season. Central opened with an emphatic victory, while The First Academy stumbled in its opener. With both programs aiming to prove themselves against high-level competition, this non-conference showdown carries weight beyond the scoreboard.
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Central: Momentum from a Strong Start
Central (Phenix City, AL) has already made a loud statement in the 2025-26 season. Ranked 53rd nationally, 2nd in Alabama, and 2nd in their class, the Red Devils enter this matchup with a 1-0 overall record. Their season-opening win was nothing short of dominant, with a 59-16 blowout that displayed their offensive firepower and defensive toughness.
Looking at the numbers, Central’s balance is impressive. They average 227 rushing yards per game and 206 passing yards per game, a combination that makes them difficult to defend. That offensive production results in an eye-popping 433 total yards per game.
Key leaders include:
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Jayshaun Woodhouse (#16): Averaging 126 rushing yards per game, Woodhouse is the engine of the ground attack.
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Bobby Coleman (#12): The quarterback has already tallied 143 passing yards per game, while also producing 147 total yards per game.
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Braylen Averett (#11): With 97 receiving yards per game, he adds a deep threat to complement Woodhouse’s rushing.
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Jack Ciancio (#17): A reliable scorer who has averaged 10 points per game.
Defensively, Central has shown efficiency with 46 tackles per game and an ability to pressure quarterbacks with 4 sacks per game. This balance of offense and defense makes them a formidable challenge for any opponent.
The First Academy: Searching for a Bounce Back
The First Academy enters the contest with something to prove. Ranked 60th nationally, 11th in Florida, and 2nd in their class, the Royals are no strangers to tough competition. However, their opening loss highlighted some areas that need quick adjustments.
TFA fell short in its first game, losing 24-17. Despite the loss, there were positives. The Royals displayed moments of sharp execution, but they struggled to finish drives, particularly in the second half.
Statistically, TFA is producing:
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123 rushing yards per game
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148 passing yards per game
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271 total yards per game
Though not as explosive as Central’s numbers, the Royals have their own standout performers:
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Brian Dillard Jr. (#3): A dual-threat leader, Dillard Jr. averages 68 rushing yards per game, 91 passing yards per game, and an impressive 161 total yards per game. His versatility is crucial for the Royals’ offense.
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Brian Williams (#11): A reliable receiver who contributes 85 receiving yards per game, keeping defenses honest.
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Ryon Smith (#13): Anchors the defense with 10 tackles per game, showing that TFA can be physical up front.
TFA’s defense actually tallied more tackles (70 per game) than Central, showing hustle and effort, but their inability to capitalize on those stops was evident. The key for them will be consistency on both sides of the ball.
Scoring Trends and Game Flow
Looking at team scoring averages, the contrast between Central and TFA is striking:
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Central: Scored 21 points in the first quarter and 24 in the second quarter during their opening game. By halftime, they were already ahead by a large margin. They added 14 more in the third quarter, finishing with 59 total points.
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TFA: Managed 7 points in the first quarter, 3 in the second, and 7 more in the third. Their offense stalled late, going scoreless in the fourth quarter.
If these trends continue, TFA will need to find a way to weather Central’s fast starts. A strong defensive stand in the first half will be vital for the Royals to stay in the game.
What This Matchup Means
This game offers two different storylines:
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For Central: A chance to reinforce their reputation as one of Alabama’s top programs. A road win against a quality Florida opponent would validate their high ranking and keep momentum building.
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For The First Academy: An opportunity to respond after a disappointing opener. A win over Central would not only erase the sting of their first loss but also prove they can compete against nationally recognized teams.
High school football thrives on these kinds of interstate matchups. It gives programs a chance to measure themselves against unfamiliar opponents, and it gives fans a glimpse of the regional diversity in style and talent.
Keys to Victory
Central’s Keys:
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Keep the Balance: Their mix of passing and rushing has already proven lethal. Continuing that balance will stress TFA’s defense.
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Defensive Pressure: With 4 sacks in their opener, Central’s pass rush could disrupt Dillard Jr. and limit TFA’s ability to move the ball.
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Fast Start: Building an early lead would force TFA to abandon balance and chase points.
The First Academy’s Keys:
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Limit Explosiveness: TFA must prevent Central from hitting big plays early. A bend-but-don’t-break approach could keep the game within reach.
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Lean on Dillard Jr.: His versatility is their best weapon. Keeping him active both on the ground and through the air is critical.
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Win Possession: Longer drives will slow down Central’s momentum and give TFA’s defense time to regroup.
Looking Ahead
Regardless of the outcome, this game is significant for both programs. For Central, another dominant performance could solidify them as one of the top contenders in Alabama high school football this season. For The First Academy, the matchup offers a chance to grow, learn, and potentially shock a strong opponent at home.
Fans across Florida and Alabama will keep their eyes on this interstate battle, which highlights the competitive spirit of high school football.
Final Thoughts
The The First Academy vs Central game is more than just a non-conference matchup. It’s a test of resilience for TFA and a chance for Central to prove their dominance travels beyond state lines. Both teams have skilled leaders, defined identities, and something to prove.
When the whistle blows at 7 p.m. on August 29, the field will decide whose storyline gets the spotlight.
