The Ardmore (AL) varsity football team is set to host Tanner (AL) in a home non-conference matchup today at 7 p.m. Both teams will look to showcase their talent and gain momentum early in the season. Fans can expect a competitive battle under the Friday night lights in Ardmore.
Here’s what you need to know:
- What: Alabama High School Football
- Who: Ardmore vs Tanner
- When: Friday, August 22, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Tanner vs. Ardmore: Season Opener Under the Friday Night Lights
Ardmore, AL – High school football officially returns on Friday, August 22, 2025, as the Ardmore Tigers host the Tanner Rattlers in a much-anticipated non-conference clash. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m., and both teams will be eager to open the season with a strong performance under the lights.
This matchup brings together two proud Alabama programs looking to set the tone for their 2025–26 campaigns. With both teams entering the night at 0-0, the season opener will serve as the first measuring stick for where they stand and what adjustments may be needed moving forward.
Team Overviews
Tanner Rattlers
The Tanner Rattlers come into this season ranked 11,563 nationally, 325th in Alabama, and 37th in their class. Though the rankings put them as underdogs against Ardmore, Tanner is no stranger to playing above expectations. Known historically for their speed and athleticism, the Rattlers will aim to surprise in their opener by leaning on quick, aggressive play.
With a fresh record and no points scored or allowed yet this year, Friday’s game will reveal how well Tanner has adjusted in the offseason and whether they can challenge Ardmore’s size and home-field advantage.
Ardmore Tigers
The Ardmore Tigers enter ranked 9,734 nationally, 266th in Alabama, and 52nd in their class, giving them a slight edge on paper over Tanner. As the home team, Ardmore carries the added responsibility of defending its turf and delivering a statement win to kickstart the season.
The Tigers are often built around disciplined play and balance on both sides of the ball. With the home crowd behind them, they’ll look to set the tone early and control the game’s pace.
Key Storylines
1. Season Opener Energy
The first game of the season is always full of emotion, adrenaline, and the unexpected. Players are eager to get back on the field after months of preparation, and whichever team can channel that energy into focused execution will have the advantage.
2. Ardmore’s Home-Field Advantage
Playing at home gives Ardmore a clear boost. The Tigers’ community support often creates a loud, spirited atmosphere that visiting teams must overcome. For Tanner, staying composed in that environment will be a major test.
3. Establishing Identity
With both teams sitting at 0-0, this game is about more than just a win. It’s about discovering what works best, whether that’s Tanner’s speed in open space or Ardmore’s balance and physicality. Expect plenty of experimentation with play-calling in the early quarters as each side finds its rhythm.
Rankings Snapshot
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Tanner Rattlers
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National: 11,563
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Alabama: 325
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Class: 37
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Ardmore Tigers
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National: 9,734
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Alabama: 266
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Class: 52
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While Ardmore holds the edge statistically, rankings are no guarantee of success—especially in early-season contests when execution and discipline often matter more than preseason expectations.
Common Opponents
Both teams will eventually face Clements High School this season, providing an interesting point of comparison:
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Tanner vs. Clements: September 26, 2025
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Ardmore vs. Clements: August 29, 2025
Those future matchups will offer deeper insight into how Tanner and Ardmore stack up against similar competition. But for now, this opening night stands alone as a crucial test for each.
What Each Team Needs to Do
Tanner Rattlers
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Use Speed to Their Advantage: Tanner must get the ball into the hands of playmakers in space, where their athleticism can shine.
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Limit Mistakes: Opening-night nerves can lead to turnovers or costly penalties; avoiding those will be key.
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Stay Aggressive: Taking shots downfield or on defense may help shift momentum against a higher-ranked opponent.
Ardmore Tigers
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Establish the Run Game: Dominating up front and controlling possession could wear Tanner down.
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Lean on Home-Field Energy: A fast start in front of the home crowd would set the tone early.
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Play Balanced Football: Ardmore’s edge lies in playing disciplined, mistake-free football while letting Tanner press under pressure.
Community Atmosphere
Friday night football in Ardmore always carries excitement, and this opener is no different. Fans from both towns are expected to turn out in large numbers, filling the stands with school colors, marching bands, and roaring student sections.
For many in Ardmore and Tanner, this game represents more than just football—it’s a community gathering, a tradition, and a chance to support young athletes chasing dreams under the lights.
Outlook
This non-conference battle may not directly affect playoff seeding, but it will provide invaluable momentum. For Tanner, a road win against a higher-ranked Ardmore squad would be a huge confidence boost. For Ardmore, defending home turf in front of their fans is critical for starting the season on the right foot.
Prediction
While both teams are capable of winning, Ardmore’s slight statistical edge and home-field advantage make them the favorite heading into Friday’s opener. Expect Tanner to push them with bursts of speed and big-play potential, but the Tigers’ discipline and depth should help them prevail late.
