The Opelika (AL) varsity football team is set to host Benjamin Russell (Alexander City, AL) tonight at 7 p.m. in a non-conference matchup. Fans can look forward to an exciting evening of high school football, with both teams showcasing determination, skill, and competitive spirit under the Friday night lights.

Here’s what you need to know:

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

Benjamin Russell at Opelika: Friday Night Football Preview

The 2025 high school football season kicks off in Alabama with a notable non-conference matchup as the Opelika Bulldogs host the Benjamin Russell Wildcats from Alexander City. Kickoff is scheduled for Friday, August 22, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Opelika High School. Both teams enter the contest with 0-0 records, making this season opener a critical first test for players, coaches, and fans alike.

Season Opener Stakes

Opening-week games carry significant weight in high school football. Beyond the win-loss record, they allow coaches to evaluate player readiness, test new schemes, and identify early strengths and weaknesses. For Opelika, playing at home provides a platform to showcase preparation, establish momentum, and energize the fan base. For Benjamin Russell, traveling from Alexander City presents a challenge, but also an opportunity to make a strong first impression and measure themselves against a highly ranked opponent.

Rankings and Program Context

Both programs come into the season with strong recognition at the state and national levels:

• Benjamin Russell Wildcats (0-0)

  • National Rank: 1,028

  • Alabama Rank: 31

  • Class: 13

• Opelika Bulldogs (0-0)

  • National Rank: 320

  • Alabama Rank: 13

  • Class: 7

Opelika enters the game as a nationally and statewide recognized program with high expectations in Class 7A football. Benjamin Russell, while ranked lower, is a respected program with talented athletes and a history of competitive play. The disparity in rankings suggests Opelika may be favored, but early-season games are often unpredictable, making preparation and execution critical.

Record Breakdown

Both teams begin the 2025 season with a clean slate:

• Benjamin Russell (0-0)

  • Overall: 0-0

  • League: 0-0

  • Non-League: 0-0

  • Home: 0-0

  • Away: 0-0

• Opelika (0-0)

  • Overall: 0-0

  • League: 0-0

  • Non-League: 0-0

  • Home: 0-0

  • Away: 0-0

This makes every play important and highlights the significance of the first game in setting the tone for the season. Coaches will use this opportunity to evaluate players, test strategies, and identify areas of improvement.

Key Storylines

1. First-Time Matchup:
This will be the first meeting of the season and a rare opportunity for these programs to face off, adding an element of unpredictability. Both teams must quickly adapt to the opposing team’s strategies.

2. Home-Field Advantage for Opelika:
Playing at home offers Opelika the benefit of familiar surroundings, strong crowd support, and the ability to dictate early-game momentum.

3. Season Identity:
Early non-conference games help teams establish offensive and defensive schemes, giving coaches insight into how the season may unfold. Execution tonight will reveal each team’s strengths and potential areas for adjustment.

4. Building Momentum:
Winning the first game can provide confidence and set a positive trajectory for the rest of the season, while mistakes can serve as learning opportunities for the team.

Keys to Victory

For Opelika Bulldogs:

• Start Fast: Establish early momentum to control the tempo of the game.

• Limit Turnovers: Avoid giving Benjamin Russell easy scoring opportunities.

• Balanced Play: Ensure consistency on offense, defense, and special teams.

• In-Game Adjustments: Respond quickly to Benjamin Russell’s strategy and adapt as needed.

For Benjamin Russell Wildcats:

• Composure on the Road: Stay focused despite the challenges of playing away from home.

• Capitalize on Opportunities: Take advantage of any errors by Opelika to create scoring chances.

• Defensive Discipline: Contain Opelika’s key offensive threats.

• Efficient Offense: Execute drives effectively and convert opportunities into points.

Community and Atmosphere

High school football in Alabama is a cornerstone of community culture. Tonight’s matchup will draw students, alumni, families, and local fans to Opelika High School, creating a lively atmosphere under the Friday night lights. Traveling Benjamin Russell supporters will add to the energy, making this game a celebration of sport and school pride.

Narrative Highlights

1. Ranking Edge: Opelika comes in with higher state and national rankings, indicating expectations for strong performance.

2. Fresh Start: Both teams begin at 0-0, making every play significant in shaping the early narrative of the season.

3. Building Momentum: A win in the season opener can set the tone for confidence and performance in upcoming games.

4. Home vs Road Dynamic: Opelika benefits from home support, while Benjamin Russell faces the challenge of performing on the road.

5. Non-Conference Test: This matchup allows both teams to gauge themselves against unfamiliar competition and adjust for league play.

Game Outlook

Expect a competitive contest, with both teams aiming to make a strong statement in the season opener. Opelika will leverage home-field advantage and disciplined execution, while Benjamin Russell will rely on composure, opportunistic plays, and strong fundamentals. Turnovers, special teams, and in-game adjustments are likely to determine the outcome.

The first half will be especially important as both teams test each other’s schemes and establish momentum. Fans can anticipate a spirited contest filled with big plays, momentum swings, and competitive action under the lights.

Conclusion

The Benjamin Russell Wildcats travel to face the Opelika Bulldogs in what promises to be an exciting start to the 2025 high school football season. Both teams enter with 0-0 records, making every play crucial. Opelika hopes to capitalize on home-field advantage and establish early dominance, while Benjamin Russell aims to demonstrate resilience and competitiveness on the road.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Opelika High School, where players, coaches, and fans will witness the opening chapter of the season. This matchup promises high-energy action, community excitement, and a significant first test for both programs.