The Cottonwood varsity football team will host Ashford in a home non-conference game today at 7 p.m. in Cottonwood, Alabama. Fans can look forward to an exciting evening as the Hornets take the field, aiming to showcase skill, teamwork, and determination while defending their home turf in this spirited matchup.
Here’s what you need to know:
- What: Alabama High School Football
- Who: Cottonwood vs Ashford
- When: Today, August 28, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Cottonwood vs Ashford: Alabama High School Football Non-Conference Matchup
The Cottonwood (AL) varsity football team is set to host Ashford (AL) tonight, Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7 p.m. in a highly anticipated non-conference game. Both teams enter the contest with contrasting early-season results, offering Alabama high school football fans an exciting matchup under the Friday night lights.
Game Overview
Ashford enters the game with momentum, coming off a 32-15 victory over Rehobeth in their season opener. The team has shown offensive versatility and defensive discipline, making them a formidable opponent on the road. Cottonwood, meanwhile, opened the season with a 14-14 tie at home, leaving the Yellowjackets eager to claim their first win of the year.
This matchup provides an opportunity for both programs to measure their early-season performance, test key players, and set the tone for the remainder of the 2025 season.
Team Records and Rankings
Ashford
-
Overall Record: 1-0
-
Home Record: 0-0
-
Away Record: 1-0
-
Win Percentage: 1.000
-
Points For: 32
-
Points Against: 15
-
National Rank: 7,840
-
Alabama Rank: 212
-
Class Rank: 33
Ashford demonstrated balanced offensive production in their opening game, scoring consistently across the first, third, and fourth quarters. The team also showed defensive resilience, allowing only 15 points. Their ability to perform on the road will be a key factor as they face Cottonwood tonight.
Cottonwood
-
Overall Record: 0-0-1
-
Home Record: 0-0
-
Away Record: 0-0-1
-
Win Percentage: .000
-
Points For: 14
-
Points Against: 14
-
National Rank: 5,744
-
Alabama Rank: 157
-
Class Rank: 6
Cottonwood’s season-opening tie leaves the Yellowjackets in search of their first victory. The team displayed a balanced attack but will need to capitalize on red-zone opportunities and improve defensive consistency to compete effectively against Ashford.
Scoring and Team Performance
Scoring Breakdown
-
Ashford: 32 points per game
-
1st Quarter: 8
-
3rd Quarter: 6
-
4th Quarter: 18
-
-
Cottonwood: 14 points per game (tie)
Ashford’s scoring in multiple quarters indicates their ability to maintain pressure throughout the game. Cottonwood’s consistent scoring in their opening tie highlights their potential, but tonight’s game will test their ability to convert opportunities against a high-performing opponent.
Offensive and Defensive Metrics
Ashford Key Players:
-
Ethan Simmons (#10) – 101 rushing yards, 40 passing yards, 141 total yards per game
-
Kade Strength (#32) – 20 receiving yards per game
-
Sawyer Missildine (#52) – 10 tackles per game
-
Ty Booker (#15) – 1 sack per game
Ashford’s balanced offense, led by Simmons, allows them to mix rushing and passing effectively, keeping defenses off-balance. Their defensive leaders, including Missildine and Booker, contribute to a disciplined defensive unit capable of limiting scoring opportunities.
Cottonwood Key Metrics:
Specific individual statistics for Cottonwood are not available, but team performance indicates the need to focus on offensive execution and defensive stops to contain Ashford’s versatile attack.
Total Yardage
-
Ashford: 146 rushing yards, 40 passing yards, 40 receiving yards per game (186 total yards)
-
Cottonwood: Total yardage data not available
Ashford’s productive rushing attack, combined with passing efficiency, gives them a balanced offensive profile. Cottonwood will need to find ways to disrupt Ashford’s rhythm and generate scoring opportunities to secure a win.
Common Opponent Context
Both teams have faced Rehobeth this season:
-
Ashford defeated Rehobeth 32-15
-
Cottonwood’s matchup resulted in a 14-14 tie
These early-season performances offer a baseline for comparison, highlighting Ashford’s offensive dominance and Cottonwood’s defensive resilience.
Game Strategy and Key Considerations
Ashford Strategy
Ashford is likely to emphasize maintaining offensive balance while leveraging Ethan Simmons’ dual-threat capabilities. Defensive discipline will be crucial to limit Cottonwood’s scoring opportunities and control game tempo. Their early success on the road demonstrates adaptability and execution under pressure.
Cottonwood Strategy
Cottonwood must focus on converting scoring opportunities and tightening defensive coverage. Capitalizing on home-field advantage, the Yellowjackets will look to sustain drives, force turnovers, and pressure Ashford’s offensive leaders. Red-zone efficiency will be a critical factor in determining the outcome.
Players to Watch
Ashford’s standout performer, Ethan Simmons, will be pivotal in both rushing and passing, while defensive contributors like Sawyer Missildine and Ty Booker can influence momentum through key tackles and sacks. Cottonwood will need breakout performances from offensive and defensive leaders, although specific stats are currently unavailable.
Fan Experience and Coverage
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m., with Cottonwood High School hosting fans ready to support the home team. Expect an energetic atmosphere, with student sections, community supporters, and local enthusiasm highlighting the game-day experience.
For those unable to attend, live reporting from Cottonwood and Ashford scoretrackers will provide updates, play-by-play coverage, and key highlights, keeping fans engaged throughout the matchup.
Early-Season Implications
This non-conference game carries significant weight for both teams. Ashford seeks to extend their winning streak and establish dominance early in the season, while Cottonwood looks to claim their first victory and build confidence.
The outcome may influence coaching decisions, player rotations, and preparations for upcoming league and non-league matchups. Success tonight could provide either team with momentum heading into the rest of the 2025 season.
Conclusion
The Cottonwood vs Ashford matchup promises to deliver an exciting contest for Alabama high school football fans. Ashford enters with momentum and a balanced attack, while Cottonwood aims to capitalize on home-field advantage and rebound from a season-opening tie.
Expect a competitive game featuring critical offensive drives, defensive stands, and standout performances. Fans will witness the skill, dedication, and teamwork that define Alabama high school football, with early-season implications that could set the tone for the remainder of the year.
Whether cheering for Cottonwood at home or supporting Ashford on the road, spectators can look forward to an evening of high-energy football and memorable moments under the Friday night lights.
