The Carlisle (PA) varsity football team is set to host a conference matchup against Cumberland Valley (Mechanicsburg, PA) tonight at 7 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Pennsylvania High School Football
Who: Carlisle vs Cumberland Valley
When: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Carlisle vs. Cumberland Valley: Rivalry Renewed Under Friday Night Lights

Two Mid-Penn Commonwealth rivals are set to meet under the Friday night lights as Carlisle hosts Cumberland Valley in an early-season conference showdown. Both teams enter the matchup searching for their first victory of the 2025 campaign after tough opening losses.

Early Struggles for Both Sides

Cumberland Valley (0-1) comes into this contest ranked 44th in Pennsylvania and 22nd in Class 6A. The Eagles were shut out in their opener, falling 7-0 on the road. Offensively, they managed 194 total yards per game, with quarterback Colton Stamy leading the way. Stamy threw for 117 yards and added to his 101 total yards per game, while wideout Zayden Smith contributed 61 receiving yards. On defense, Smith also stood out with nine tackles, but the Eagles will be looking for more production across the board, especially in the pass rush where they recorded zero sacks in their opener.

Carlisle (0-1), ranked 254th in the state and 65th in Class 6A, also stumbled in Week 1 with a 38-7 loss at home. The Thundering Herd’s lone score came in the second quarter, as they struggled to generate consistent offense. Defensively, Carlisle surrendered too many big plays and will need to tighten up against a Cumberland Valley team capable of moving the ball through the air.

By the Numbers

• Cumberland Valley Offense: 178 passing yards per game, 16 rushing yards per game, 194 total yards per game.

• Carlisle Offense: Averaging 7 points per game, still searching for rhythm.

• Defensive Comparison: Carlisle allowed 38 points in their opener, while Cumberland Valley gave up just 7 but failed to score themselves.

Key Players to Watch

• Cumberland Valley:

  • QB Colton Stamy – 117 passing yards, 101 total yards per game.

  • WR/DB Zayden Smith – 61 receiving yards, 9 tackles on defense.

  • RB Rocco Bushman – Leads the Eagles with 30 rushing yards per game.

• Carlisle:

  • Still looking for offensive playmakers to emerge after a slow Week 1 showing.

Looking Ahead

This matchup marks the start of a grueling stretch for both teams, with common opponents such as Central Dauphin, Bishop McDevitt, Harrisburg, and State College on the horizon. Both Cumberland Valley and Carlisle sit at 0-1 overall and 0-0 in league play, making this a pivotal early test in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth race.

The Bottom Line

Cumberland Valley and Carlisle may have opened the season with losses, but conference play provides a chance to reset. The Eagles’ balanced passing attack faces off against a Carlisle defense eager to rebound after surrendering 38 points. On the other side, the Thundering Herd will look to establish some offensive momentum against a Cumberland Valley defense that showed signs of strength in Week 1.