The Excel (AL) varsity football team will host Linden (AL) in a non-conference showdown today at 7 p.m. This matchup offers both teams a chance to test their strengths outside of league play. Excel looks to capitalize on home-field advantage, while Linden aims to secure an impressive road victory.
Here’s what you need to know:
- What: Alabama High School Football
- Who: Excel vs Linden
- When: Friday, August 22, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Linden vs. Excel: Non-Conference Battle Opens the 2025 Season
Excel, AL – Friday night lights return in Monroe County as the Excel Panthers host the Linden Patriots in a highly anticipated non-conference clash. The matchup kicks off at 7:00 p.m. on August 22, 2025, setting the stage for both teams to begin their 2025–26 campaigns with momentum and confidence.
For two programs eager to make statements this fall, the season opener will be more than just a first test—it will be about establishing identity, showcasing talent, and setting the tone for what’s to come.
Team Overviews
Linden Patriots
The Linden Patriots enter the year ranked 8,147 nationally, 225th in Alabama, and 8th in their class. Though no games have been played yet this season, Linden has long been known for its hard-nosed style of football and ability to produce tough, disciplined squads.
With no points scored or allowed so far in 2025, tonight’s matchup will offer fans a first glimpse of how the Patriots have reloaded. Their ranking suggests they are underdogs against Excel, but Linden has built a reputation as a resilient team that refuses to back down, regardless of circumstances.
Excel Panthers
The host Excel Panthers come in with a slight edge on paper, ranked 6,495 nationally, 180th in Alabama, and 24th in their class. The Panthers, much like Linden, are opening their season with a clean slate, but the higher ranking indicates preseason expectations for competitiveness and potential growth.
Excel has built excitement in the community around its program, and a home opener against a respected opponent like Linden offers a chance to validate those expectations. A strong showing could give the Panthers early-season momentum and confidence heading into tougher regional matchups later in the fall.
Key Storylines
1. First Game Jitters
Both teams start the year 0-0, which means tonight’s matchup is less about stats and more about execution. Opening-week games often feature mistakes as players shake off offseason rust, so whichever team can minimize penalties and turnovers will likely walk away with the victory.
2. Battle in the Trenches
In Alabama high school football, games are often won up front. Linden’s physicality will test Excel’s offensive and defensive lines, while the Panthers will try to establish their rhythm by running the ball and controlling possession. Expect a physical, grind-it-out battle early on.
3. Momentum Matters
For both squads, this opener could shape the rest of their season. A win not only provides bragging rights but also sets the tone for confidence and execution moving forward. A loss, however, means regrouping quickly before tougher regional play.
Rankings Breakdown
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Linden Patriots:
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National: 8,147
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Alabama: 225
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Class: 8
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Excel Panthers:
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National: 6,495
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Alabama: 180
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Class: 24
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While rankings alone don’t determine outcomes, they highlight Excel’s slight preseason edge. Still, Linden’s tradition of resilience suggests this could be a closer matchup than numbers imply.
Common Opponents Outlook
While there are no common opponents to compare ahead of tonight’s matchup, both teams will eventually face Southern Choctaw this season. Linden meets them on September 26, while Excel takes them on October 31. How each team fares against Southern Choctaw later will provide another measure of their progress.
What Each Team Needs to Do
Linden Patriots
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Play Physical Defense: Disrupt Excel’s offensive flow by winning the battle in the trenches.
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Control the Clock: Sustained drives can keep Excel’s offense off the field.
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Stay Disciplined: Minimize turnovers and penalties in what is likely to be a close, low-scoring opener.
Excel Panthers
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Start Fast: As the home team with higher expectations, early momentum will be key.
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Lean on Balance: A mix of rushing and passing could keep Linden guessing.
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Feed Off the Crowd: A strong home-field atmosphere could give Excel the edge late in the game.
Community and Atmosphere
Friday night in Excel promises to be a spirited event. High school football is the heartbeat of small-town Alabama, and with both Linden and Excel hungry to start their seasons strong, fans can expect packed stands, marching bands, and plenty of energy under the lights.
For Excel, protecting their home field is vital, while Linden’s traveling supporters will hope their team can spoil the opener and start the year with a statement victory.
Outlook
This non-conference game may not affect regional standings, but it carries significant weight for both teams’ morale. Excel’s higher ranking and home-field advantage give them the statistical edge, but Linden’s history of grit and toughness ensures they will be no easy out.
Expect a physical, hard-fought contest where turnovers, special teams, and late-game execution make the difference.
Prediction
If Excel can capitalize on home momentum and execute a balanced offensive plan, they should be able to edge out Linden. However, if the Patriots’ defense rises to the occasion and forces mistakes, an upset could be brewing.
Projected Final Score: Excel 21, Linden 14
