The Breathitt County Bobcats (KY) varsity football team is set to play a home conference game against Middlesboro Yellowjackets (KY) on Saturday, August 23, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Kentucky High School Football
Who: Breathitt County Bobcats (KY) vs Middlesboro Yellowjackets (KY)
When: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Where: Middlesboro High School
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
A new high school football season is on the horizon, and for two Kentucky teams, Breathitt County and Middlesboro, it brings a fresh start with new opportunities. As the 2025-26 season kicks off, both squads are looking to make their mark. The early-season matchup between these two teams on Saturday, August 23, 2025, will provide an initial test and a look at what to expect from these programs.
Tale of the Tape: Breathitt County
The Breathitt County Bobcats enter the season with a clean slate, reflected in their 0-0 record. Despite a national ranking of 6,098, their in-state position at 84 and regional rank of 7 show they’re a respectable competitor in their area. The Bobcats are part of Class 2A, District 6, which also includes Jackson County, Morgan County, and West Carter. This district alignment will be a key factor in their push for a playoff spot. Their game against Middlesboro is a non-district matchup, providing a chance to build momentum before district play begins.
Tale of the Tape: Middlesboro
Meanwhile, the Middlesboro Yellowjackets also begin the season 0-0. Their national ranking of 9,050 and Kentucky ranking of 129 places them a bit behind Breathitt County, but in the world of high school football, rankings are just predictions. The Yellowjackets play in Class 1A, District 7, a highly competitive division that includes Harlan, Lynn Camp, Pineville, and Williamsburg. Their non-league opener against Breathitt County is a big chance for the Yellowjackets to prove their national ranking is an inaccurate reflection of their potential.
The Head-to-Head Matchup
The initial data shows both teams are starting from square one this season, with no games played and no points for or against. The Aug. 23 game is their first of the year and their first head-to-head matchup. While a history of competition between the two programs isn’t readily available, the game provides a great opportunity to start a new rivalry.
For Breathitt County, a win could validate its higher ranking and provide a strong start to the season. For Middlesboro, a victory would be a significant upset and a major confidence boost for a team in a tough district. Both teams will be looking to establish their identity and set the tone for the rest of their campaigns. The game promises to be an exciting start to the season for these two Kentucky high schools.
