The Slocomb (AL) varsity football team is set to host Houston County (Columbia, AL) in a non-conference matchup today at 7 p.m. With both teams eager to establish momentum, this game promises plenty of excitement. Slocomb looks to defend its home turf, while Houston County aims for a strong road performance.

Here’s what you need to know:

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

Houston County vs. Slocomb: Friday Night Lights Kick Off in Slocomb

Slocomb, AL – The wait is over. On Friday, August 22, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., the Slocomb Red Tops will open their 2025 campaign at home against the Houston County Lions in a non-conference showdown that is sure to bring plenty of small-town pride and excitement to the gridiron.

Both teams enter the season with 0-0 records, giving this opener even greater significance as each side looks to build confidence, establish identity, and set the tone for the rest of the year.

Team Profiles

Houston County Lions

Representing Columbia, Alabama, the Houston County Lions begin the season ranked 11,081 nationally, 305th in Alabama, and 29th in their class. While they find themselves slightly behind their Week 1 opponent in the rankings, the Lions see this as a chance to upset expectations and make an early statement.

Traditionally, Houston County relies on tough defense and a grind-it-out offensive approach. For the Lions, execution will be key. First-game jitters often lead to turnovers or costly penalties, and avoiding those mistakes will give them the best chance to compete on the road.

Slocomb Red Tops

The Slocomb Red Tops enter the new season with a bit more buzz. Ranked 9,414 nationally, 260th in Alabama, and 36th in their class, they hold the edge in preseason evaluations. Slocomb has long been known for a gritty, hard-nosed brand of football, and their home opener offers a chance to show their fans that they’re ready to climb the ranks in 2025.

The Red Tops will look to their playmakers to set the tone, particularly on offense, where establishing rhythm early could put the Lions on their heels. Defensively, Slocomb’s challenge will be shutting down Houston County’s physical rushing attack.

Rankings Snapshot

• Houston County (25–26)

  • National: 11,081

  • Alabama: 305

  • Class: 29

• Slocomb (25–26)

  • National: 9,414

  • Alabama: 260

  • Class: 36

Though the Red Tops have the higher ranking, the difference is not insurmountable. For Houston County, pulling off the road win would show they are not defined by preseason projections.

Record Breakdown

Both teams enter with identical marks in every category:

• Overall: 0-0

• League: 0-0

• Non-League: 0-0

• Head-to-Head: 0-0

• Home/Away: 0-0

• Playoff: 0-0

With no recent head-to-head history and no common opponents played yet, this matchup is a clean slate. Fans will see the first real glimpse of who these teams are in 2025.

Common Opponents

While neither team has logged a game this year, the schedule does reveal a future connection.

• Houston County will face Geneva County on October 17, 2025.

• Slocomb will battle Geneva County on October 30, 2025.

These future contests will provide an interesting measuring stick, but for now, the two programs meet head-on with little past data to guide predictions.

Keys to the Game

Houston County Lions

1. Play Mistake-Free Football: In a hostile environment, turnovers could quickly shift momentum. Protecting the football will be essential.

2. Establish the Run Game: If the Lions can control the line of scrimmage, they can dictate pace and keep Slocomb’s offense off the field.

3. Stay Composed on Defense: Big plays often define openers. Houston County must stay disciplined in coverage and tackling.

Slocomb Red Tops

1. Use Home-Field Advantage: Feeding off the crowd’s energy early could help build an important lead.

2. Balance the Offense: A mix of run and pass will keep Houston County guessing.

3. Pressure the Quarterback: Forcing Houston County into obvious passing situations will allow Slocomb’s defense to attack.

Atmosphere and Community Impact

Friday nights in Alabama bring entire communities together, and Slocomb will be buzzing for this opener. Families, alumni, and students will pack the stands, creating the kind of electric environment that makes high school football special.

For Houston County, the trip is more than just a game—it’s a test of focus and resilience. Playing on the road offers its challenges, but victories in tough environments can build the kind of team chemistry that lasts all season.

What to Watch For

• Early Drives: The first quarter will reveal a lot about which team is more prepared. Will Houston County’s road mentality hold up, or will Slocomb’s home energy overwhelm the visitors?

• Physical Play: Expect a lot of running between the tackles as both teams look to control possession.

• Special Teams: In a close game, a big return or clutch field goal could determine the outcome.

Prediction

On paper, Slocomb holds a slight advantage with better rankings and the comfort of playing at home. Houston County will need a disciplined, physical performance to pull off the upset. If the Lions can establish the run and minimize mistakes, they could keep it close deep into the fourth quarter.

However, the Red Tops’ balanced roster and home-field edge make them the safer pick. Expect a competitive battle early, with Slocomb pulling away late.