The Manheim Central (Manheim, PA) varsity football team will host a non-conference matchup against Ephrata (PA) tonight at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

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

Manheim Central vs. Ephrata: Early-Season Clash Promises High-Octane Action

Manheim, PA – The Manheim Central Blue Streaks and the Ephrata Mountaineers both enter the 2025 season undefeated and set the stage for a high-stakes showdown. With each team posting a 1-0 record, Friday night’s matchup at Rettew Stadium promises an electrifying non-conference contest.

Records and Rankings
Ephrata comes in with a strong overall record of 1-0, outscoring opponents 45-6, ranking 3,329th nationally, 121st in Pennsylvania, and 31st in their class. Manheim Central mirrors the undefeated start, also 1-0, but with a more tightly contested 47-42 victory. The Blue Streaks hold higher national and state rankings—2,447th nationally, 84th in Pennsylvania, and 20th in class standings.

Scoring Trends
The Mountaineers and Blue Streaks have already shown contrasting scoring patterns this season. Ephrata exploded in the second quarter of their opener with 24 points and added consistent scoring in the third and fourth quarters. Manheim Central, meanwhile, relied on a strong first-quarter performance, putting up 21 points, followed by steady contributions throughout the rest of the game. Fans can expect both teams to look for fast starts and sustained pressure.

Statistical Matchups
Ephrata has dominated on both the ground and through the air, averaging 263 rushing yards, 223 passing yards, and 486 total yards per game. Manheim Central, in comparison, has leaned more on a balanced attack with 185 rushing yards, 87 passing yards, and 272 total yards per game. Defensively, Ephrata leads with 81 tackles per game, whereas Manheim Central has tallied 44, with one sack recorded.

Key Players

• Ephrata: Jayden Artis leads the ground game with 82 rushing yards per contest, while Carson Martin contributes 223 passing yards and 280 total yards per game. Josiah Grant has emerged as the top receiving threat with 89 yards per game.

• Manheim Central: Caleb Moyer averages 61 rushing yards, Logan Kappel has 60 passing yards and 117 total yards, and Noah Templin adds 38 receiving yards per outing. Jevin Carbonneau stands out defensively with 9 tackles per game, matched by Nate Haldeman’s sack production.

Looking Ahead
Both teams have common opponents yet to be tested, including Garden Spot and Cocalico, making Friday’s result a potential indicator of how each will perform in upcoming league play. Manheim Central will look to leverage home-field advantage, while Ephrata hopes to extend their offensive momentum on the road.

Fans can expect a tight contest featuring explosive offense, key defensive plays, and the kind of excitement only an early-season matchup between two unbeaten teams can provide. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. at Rettew Stadium.