The New Hanover High School varsity football team from Wilmington, NC, will host a non-conference matchup against Carolina Forest High School from Myrtle Beach, SC, on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

Game Details:

• Matchup: Carolina Forest vs New Hanover

• Date & Time: Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM

• Location: New Hanover High School, Wilmington, NC

• Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
• Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

High-Stakes Showdown: New Hanover Hosts Carolina Forest in Early Season Clash

Wilmington, NC – The New Hanover Wildcats will welcome the Carolina Forest Wolves to town this Friday for a high-profile non-conference matchup that promises to test both teams’ early-season form.

Team Records & Rankings
Carolina Forest (SC) enters the contest undefeated at 1-0, boasting a national ranking of 1,619 and holding 32nd in South Carolina’s Class 22 standings. The Wolves scored an impressive 55 points in their season opener while allowing 33.

New Hanover (NC), meanwhile, is 1-1 on the season. Nationally, the Wildcats sit at 2,922, ranking 76th in North Carolina’s Class 22. After a tough home loss and an away victory, New Hanover has scored 48 points while conceding 32.

Scoring Trends
Carolina Forest’s offense has been explosive, putting up 55 points in their first game, while New Hanover has averaged 24 points per game. Breaking down by quarter, the Wildcats have scored 3.5 points in the first, 14 in the second, 3.5 in the third, and 3 in the fourth.

Statistical Comparison
Although complete Carolina Forest stats are not available, New Hanover has averaged 88 rushing yards, 166.5 passing yards, and 254.5 total yards per game. The Wildcats have also been solid on defense with 61.5 tackles and 3 sacks per game.

Individually, New Hanover has standout performers, including Tony Clark-Nelson with 47 rushing yards per game, quarterback Tanahri Johnson passing for 167 yards, and receiver Kellum Brown hauling in 44.5 yards per game. Shane Graham leads in tackles with 10 per game, while Tully Dunne contributes 1 sack per game.

Matchup Outlook
New Hanover will aim to capitalize on their home field advantage after a strong road performance last week. Carolina Forest, undefeated and riding high after their 55-point opener, will look to extend their winning streak on the road. With both teams showcasing talent on offense and defense, fans can expect a fast-paced, competitive game.

Historical Context
This game marks the first-ever meeting between the two squads, adding an extra layer of excitement. New Hanover is 1-0 in out-of-state matchups this season, while Carolina Forest has yet to face an opponent from North Carolina.