The Houston County varsity football team will host Graceville in a home non-conference game today at 7 p.m. in Columbia, Alabama. Fans can anticipate an exciting evening as the Bulldogs take the field, aiming to showcase their skill, teamwork, and determination while defending their home turf against a strong out-of-state opponent.

Here’s what you need to know:

• What: Alabama High School Football
• Who: Houston County vs Graceville
• When: Today, August 28, 2025
• Time: 7:00 p.m.
• Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Houston County vs Graceville: Alabama High School Football Non-Conference Clash

The Houston County (Columbia, AL) varsity football team is set to host Graceville (FL) in a non-conference matchup tonight, Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Houston County High School. Both teams are looking to bounce back after opening-week losses, making this early-season game a critical opportunity to gain momentum and set the tone for the remainder of the 2025 season.

Game Overview

Houston County and Graceville enter this matchup with identical 0-1 records, having faced tough opponents in their season openers. Houston County was shut out in their first contest, falling 0-38 on the road, while Graceville scored 18 points but allowed 54, demonstrating a defense that will need adjustments to compete effectively against Houston County’s home-field squad.

This game pits Alabama’s Houston County against Florida’s Graceville, offering fans a unique interstate matchup. Both programs aim to claim their first victory of the season, and the outcome will likely influence confidence heading into district and non-league play.

Team Records and Rankings

Graceville

• Overall Record: 0-1

• District Record: 0-1

• Home Record: 0-0

• Away Record: 0-1

• Win Percentage: .000

• Points For: 18

• Points Against: 54

• National Rank: 13,246

• Florida Rank: 570

• Class Rank: 58

Graceville’s opening loss highlighted defensive weaknesses, conceding 54 points, but the team managed to put up 18 points, suggesting the offense has some capacity to generate scoring drives. The challenge tonight will be maintaining offensive consistency while shoring up the defense against a disciplined Houston County team.

Houston County

• Overall Record: 0-1

• Home Record: 0-0

• Away Record: 0-1

• Win Percentage: .000

• Points For: 0

• Points Against: 38

• National Rank: 11,542

• Alabama Rank: 325

• Class Rank: 36

Houston County’s offense was unable to score in their opening game, highlighting the need for better execution in red-zone opportunities and sustained drives. Defensively, the team allowed 38 points, revealing gaps that must be addressed to compete against Graceville tonight.

Team Performance and Key Statistics

Scoring Trends

• Graceville: 18 points per game (opening week)

• Houston County: 0 points per game (opening week)

While exact per-quarter statistics are unavailable, these totals indicate the challenge each team faces in building momentum. Graceville has shown the ability to score, but defensive adjustments are crucial. Houston County must find ways to unlock offensive production at home.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

There is no recorded history of previous matchups between Houston County and Graceville, making tonight’s game the first meeting between the programs. Both teams are eager to establish early dominance, with the winner gaining an early-season edge in confidence and team morale.

Additionally, neither team has common opponents this season, so this game serves as a unique opportunity to gauge the relative strength of these programs without prior comparative data.

Team Strategy and Key Considerations

Houston County Approach

Playing at home gives Houston County a significant advantage. The team will likely focus on improving offensive execution, avoiding turnovers, and controlling the pace of the game. Defensive adjustments to contain Graceville’s scoring drives will be critical, particularly given Graceville’s ability to put up 18 points in their first matchup.

Graceville Approach

Graceville travels to Alabama seeking to rebound from a lopsided opening-week loss. Offensive efficiency and limiting big plays will be key, as the team must balance aggression with ball control. Defensive discipline will be essential to slow Houston County’s potential scoring drives.

Players to Watch

The provided data does not specify individual leaders or statistics for either team. Observers should monitor for standout performances in key areas such as rushing, passing, and defensive playmaking. High school football often sees unexpected breakout performances, which could influence the outcome in a tightly contested game.

Fan Experience and Coverage

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m., with Houston County High School hosting fans eager to support their home team. Expect a spirited environment, complete with student sections, local supporters, and the energy that defines Alabama high school football.

For those unable to attend in person, live reporting will be available through Houston County and Graceville scoretrackers. This allows fans to follow scoring updates, key plays, and standout performances throughout the contest.

Early-Season Implications

This non-conference matchup serves as a critical opportunity for both programs to make early adjustments and establish momentum. A win tonight could boost confidence for either team heading into future district and non-league games.

For Houston County, a home victory would provide the team with a morale boost after a shutout loss. Graceville, meanwhile, aims to rebound from a high-scoring defeat, proving that the team can compete on the road against a challenging opponent.

Success in this matchup may also influence coaching strategies, particularly in identifying key players and refining offensive and defensive schemes for the remainder of the season.

Conclusion

The Houston County vs Graceville game promises to deliver excitement and competitive intensity for Alabama high school football fans. Both teams are seeking their first victories, and tonight’s matchup offers an opportunity to reset early-season momentum.

While Houston County has home-field advantage, Graceville is eager to demonstrate resilience on the road. The game is likely to feature standout performances, strategic adjustments, and moments that highlight the skill and determination of student-athletes on both sides.

Fans should expect a spirited contest filled with dynamic plays, defensive battles, and offensive breakthroughs. This interstate matchup not only offers a showcase of talent but also exemplifies the passion and community engagement that make Alabama high school football an enduring tradition.

Whether supporting the home team or cheering for the visiting Graceville squad, fans can anticipate an evening of high-energy football that sets the stage for the rest of the 2025 season.