The Priceville (AL) varsity football team will host Columbia (Huntsville, AL) in a home non-conference matchup today at 7 p.m. This game provides both squads an opportunity to build momentum and test their skills. Priceville looks to defend its home field, while Columbia aims to earn a key road victory.
Here’s what you need to know:
- What: Alabama High School Football
- Who: Priceville vs Columbia
- When: Friday, August 22, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Columbia vs. Priceville: Bulldogs Host Eagles in Season Opener
Priceville, AL – High school football makes its long-awaited return Friday night as the Priceville Bulldogs host the Columbia Eagles in a non-conference matchup. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. on August 22, 2025, at Priceville’s home field, where fans are eager to see how both teams open their 2025–26 campaigns.
This contest features two programs entering the season with clean slates at 0-0. For Columbia, it’s an opportunity to prove themselves against a stronger-ranked opponent, while Priceville looks to defend its home turf and establish early momentum.
Team Overviews
Columbia Eagles
The Columbia Eagles, based in Huntsville, enter the year ranked 12,102 nationally, 347th in Alabama, and 58th in their class. On paper, Columbia is the underdog, but the first game of the season is often unpredictable.
For the Eagles, this opener is more than just a non-conference contest—it’s a chance to reset expectations. Columbia struggled in past seasons, but with renewed energy and a clean slate, the team will look to show improvements in execution and competitiveness.
Priceville Bulldogs
The Priceville Bulldogs start 2025–26 with higher expectations. Ranked 6,367 nationally, 173rd in Alabama, and 32nd in their class, they have an edge in the numbers, but rankings won’t matter once the whistle blows.
Priceville comes in with recent highlights, including a preseason video showcasing their matchup against Sardis on August 15. The Bulldogs’ ability to make plays on both sides of the ball has fans optimistic that this year could be another step forward.
Rankings Snapshot
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Columbia Eagles
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National: 12,102
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Alabama: 347
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Class: 58
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Priceville Bulldogs
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National: 6,367
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Alabama: 173
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Class: 32
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The rankings clearly favor Priceville, but Columbia’s drive to prove themselves could make the game closer than expected. Season openers often come down to which team minimizes mistakes and adapts quickest.
Record Breakdown
Both teams enter the opener at 0-0 across the board:
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Overall: 0-0
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League: 0-0
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Non-League: 0-0
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Head-to-Head: 0-0
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Playoff: 0-0
This clean slate means Friday night is about setting the tone—not just for the game, but for the entire season.
Key Storylines
1. Priceville’s Home Advantage
The Bulldogs will enjoy the benefit of playing in front of their home crowd. Home-field energy often plays a big role in early-season games, especially when players are shaking off nerves and finding their rhythm.
2. Columbia’s Opportunity to Upset
As the lower-ranked team, Columbia has little to lose. If they can stay disciplined, create turnovers, and capitalize on momentum swings, they could challenge Priceville in a game that many expect to lean toward the Bulldogs.
3. Execution Over Rankings
While Priceville is favored by rankings, execution on the field will tell the true story. Special teams, turnovers, and conditioning often play bigger roles than raw talent in the first few games of the season.
What Each Team Needs to Do
Columbia Eagles
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Stay Disciplined: Limit penalties and mental mistakes that often cost underdog teams momentum.
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Generate Big Plays: A few explosive moments—whether a long pass, breakaway run, or turnover return—could keep Columbia in striking distance.
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Match Physicality: Priceville will likely look to dominate at the line of scrimmage, so Columbia must match toughness up front.
Priceville Bulldogs
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Control the Line: Establishing dominance early will open running lanes and set up manageable downs.
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Balance the Attack: Using both passing and rushing options will prevent Columbia from keying in on one aspect.
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Play With Energy, Not Sloppiness: The excitement of the opener can sometimes lead to mistakes; Priceville must remain sharp.
Community Atmosphere
Priceville’s home opener is expected to bring a strong crowd, with families, alumni, and students filling the stands. Friday night football in Alabama is about more than just the game—it’s a tradition, a community gathering, and an experience that bonds towns together. For Columbia, traveling fans will look forward to showing support and hoping for a surprise victory.
Outlook
On paper, Priceville has the upper hand, with higher rankings and more recent flashes of success. However, Columbia will view this as a chance to reset perceptions and test themselves against a solid opponent. Season openers often bring surprises, and whichever team adapts faster will likely come out on top.
Prediction
With home-field advantage, a stronger ranking profile, and recent preseason action under their belt, the Priceville Bulldogs are positioned to start the season strong. Columbia may show fight and competitiveness, but the Bulldogs’ depth and discipline should give them the edge.