High school football season is kicking off in South Carolina, and fans are in for an exciting matchup tonight. The Gilbert Indians will host the Lexington Wildcats in a non-conference clash that promises to set the tone for both programs as the 2025 campaign gets underway. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. at Gilbert High School.

What it is: varsity Boys Football
Matchup: Lexington vs. Gilbert
Time: Friday, August 22, 2025, today (5 PM ET)
Live Stream: demand at NFHS Network!

Both squads enter the season with identical 0-0 records, making tonight’s matchup a clean slate for evaluating strengths, weaknesses, and potential breakout players.

Rankings & Records

Lexington Wildcats (2025-26 Season)

• National Rank: #1,789

• South Carolina Rank: #35

• Class Rank: #21

• Overall Record: 0-0

• Home Record: 0-0

• Away Record: 0-0

Gilbert Indians (2025-26 Season)

• National Rank: #2,229

• South Carolina Rank: #46

• Class Rank: #10

• Overall Record: 0-0

• Home Record: 0-0

• Away Record: 0-0

While the Wildcats hold the edge in national and state rankings, Gilbert has shown in recent years that they can compete with some of the toughest programs in South Carolina. With home-field advantage, the Indians will look to pull off an early-season statement win.

Key Storylines to Watch

1. First Test of the Season

Both Lexington and Gilbert start fresh with no previous games in 2025. Coaches and fans alike will be eager to see how returning players step into leadership roles and how new talent adjusts under the Friday night lights.

2. Early Momentum

Non-conference games like this may not directly impact region standings, but they are crucial for building rhythm and confidence before tougher matchups later in the season.

3. Common Opponents Later in the Year

Interestingly, both schools will face North Augusta, Midland Valley, and River Bluff during the season. Tonight’s performance could provide an early measuring stick for how each team stacks up against future opponents.

Upcoming Key Games

• Lexington Wildcats

  • Aug. 29, 2025: vs. North Augusta

  • Sept. 5, 2025: vs. Midland Valley

  • Oct. 31, 2025: at River Bluff

• Gilbert Indians

  • Sept. 12, 2025: vs. River Bluff

  • Sept. 19, 2025: at North Augusta

  • Oct. 10, 2025: vs. Midland Valley

Fan Engagement

This matchup will also feature live scoretracking opportunities for both schools. Fans and community members can sign up to be a live reporter for Lexington or Gilbert, helping provide real-time updates for supporters unable to attend in person.

Final Thoughts

The Lexington vs. Gilbert showdown is more than just the first game of the season—it’s a chance for both programs to establish identity, toughness, and momentum moving forward. With close regional ties and competitive pride on the line, fans should expect a hard-fought, spirited battle under the Friday night lights in Gilbert.

Kickoff is at 5:00 p.m., and local high school football fans won’t want to miss it.