The Howard vs Hodgson Vo-Tech football matchup will set the stage for two Delaware programs eager to prove themselves in 2025. The Howard Wildcats (Wilmington, DE) travel to Newark to face the Hodgson Vo-Tech Eagles in a non-conference varsity football game on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
Both teams open the season at 0-0, making this early test critical for setting the tone. Howard comes in with stronger rankings, but Hodgson Vo-Tech has the advantage of playing at home, giving fans plenty to anticipate.
For those following statewide action, visit the Delaware High School Football section for coverage of more matchups throughout the season.
Game Details
- Matchup: Howard Wildcats vs Hodgson Vo-Tech Eagles
- Date & Time: Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
- Location: Hodgson Vo-Tech High School, Newark, DE
- Event Type: Non-Conference Varsity Game
The Thursday afternoon kickoff adds an extra layer of anticipation as both teams aim to establish early momentum.
Team Rankings & Records
Howard Wildcats
- National Ranking: 1,816
- Delaware Ranking: 7
- Division Ranking: 1
- Overall Record (2025-26): 0-0
- Home Record: 0-0
- Away Record: 0-0
- Points For (PF): 0
- Points Against (PA): 0
Hodgson Vo-Tech Eagles
- National Ranking: 3,013
- Delaware Ranking: 14
- Division Ranking: 10
- Overall Record (2025-26): 0-0
- Home Record: 0-0
- Away Record: 0-0
- Points For (PF): 0
- Points Against (PA): 0
Takeaway: Howard enters the contest as the higher-ranked team, both statewide and nationally, but Hodgson Vo-Tech is capable of leveraging home-field energy to push back.
Common Opponents
Both programs share a future matchup with Appoquinimink High School, which may later help measure how they stack up against one another.
- Howard vs Appoquinimink: Sept. 19, 2025
- Hodgson Vo-Tech vs Appoquinimink: Oct. 25, 2025
These games could provide a better comparison down the line, but for now, this opener offers the first head-to-head data point.
Record Breakdown (2025-26)
| Category | Howard Wildcats | Hodgson Vo-Tech Eagles |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| League Record | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Non-League | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Head-to-Head | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Home Record | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Away Record | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Neutral | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Playoff Record | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| In-State | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Out-of-State | 0-0 | 0-0 |
Team Outlook
Howard Wildcats
Howard enters the season as the No. 7 ranked team in Delaware, showing their strength within the state. Ranked 1,816 nationally, the Wildcats will be looking to live up to that billing with a strong start. Their Division 1 ranking highlights their potential to compete at the highest levels within Delaware high school football.
Hodgson Vo-Tech Eagles
The Eagles rank 14th in Delaware and 3,013 nationally, but don’t underestimate them. Playing at home in Newark offers a valuable boost, and Hodgson Vo-Tech has historically been competitive in these types of early-season challenges. They’ll look to slow down Howard and show they belong in the conversation for higher state rankings.
Why This Game Matters
- Season Opener: First impressions matter, and both teams want to launch their 2025 season with a win.
- Rankings Disparity: Howard enters with stronger rankings, but Hodgson Vo-Tech has the chance to close that gap.
- Momentum Builder: A win here could fuel confidence heading into tougher conference games later in the season.
Delaware High School Football Context
Delaware football often comes down to how well programs perform in both conference and non-conference games. A matchup like Howard vs Hodgson Vo-Tech has ripple effects, not only for rankings but also for postseason positioning.
Fans eager to keep up with statewide games can visit the Delaware Football section for full coverage. For schedules, results, and updates from individual schools, check Find Your School.
Key Questions Heading Into the Game
- Can Howard justify its top-10 state ranking with a convincing road win?
- Will Hodgson Vo-Tech defend home turf and surprise a higher-ranked opponent?
- Which team’s defense will establish itself early, given that both start with clean slates (0 PF, 0 PA)?
- Could this matchup be a preview of future playoff-level intensity?
FAQ: Howard vs Hodgson Vo-Tech
Q: When is the Howard vs Hodgson Vo-Tech football game?
A: Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in Newark, DE.
Q: What are the current records for both teams?
A: Both Howard and Hodgson Vo-Tech enter the matchup at 0-0.
Q: Who is ranked higher in Delaware?
A: Howard, ranked No. 7, holds the advantage over Hodgson Vo-Tech, ranked No. 14.
Q: Do they share any common opponents this season?
A: Yes, both teams face Appoquinimink High School later in the year.
Q: Where can I find more Delaware high school football coverage?
A: Visit the Delaware Football section for statewide updates.
The Howard vs Hodgson Vo-Tech football game is more than just an early-season non-conference matchup—it’s a chance for both programs to set the tone for 2025. The Wildcats bring stronger rankings and high expectations, while the Eagles will rely on home support to challenge one of Delaware’s top teams.
With kickoff set for August 28 at 4:00 p.m., fans can expect a competitive contest that reflects the intensity of Delaware high school football. Whether Howard asserts its dominance or Hodgson Vo-Tech makes a statement, this game is sure to be an early highlight of the season.
