The Pierre T.F. Riggs (Pierre, SD) varsity football team is set to host Aberdeen Central (Aberdeen, SD) in a conference matchup on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Matchup Info
Aberdeen Central vs. Pierre T.F. Riggs
Friday, August 29, 2025 — 5:00 p.m.
Location: Pierre, SD

Live stream: Watch on NFHS

Aberdeen Central vs. Pierre T.F. Riggs: Season Opener Showdown

The 2025 South Dakota high school football season kicks off with a marquee conference matchup as Pierre T.F. Riggs hosts Aberdeen Central on Friday, August 29, at 5 p.m. Both programs enter the opener with identical 0-0 records, looking to set the tone early for what could be a pivotal season.

Rankings & Records

Pierre comes into the season highly regarded, sitting at No. 1 in Class 11AA, No. 6 overall in South Dakota, and No. 1,938 nationally. The Governors have consistently been a powerhouse in recent years, making them a favorite to contend again in 2025.

Aberdeen Central, meanwhile, holds the No. 5 Class ranking, 23rd in South Dakota, and No. 6,104 nationally. The Golden Eagles face a tough opening test but have the chance to make an early statement against one of the state’s best.

Common Opponents

While neither team has played yet this year, both squads share several common opponents later in the schedule, including Brookings, Spearfish, Sturgis Brown, and Watertown. These games could serve as key measuring sticks throughout the season.

• Aberdeen Central notable dates:

  • Sept. 12 at Brookings

  • Sept. 19 vs. Spearfish

  • Sept. 26 vs. Sturgis Brown

  • Oct. 23 vs. Watertown

• Pierre notable dates:

  • Sept. 12 vs. Watertown

  • Sept. 19 at Brookings

  • Oct. 10 at Sturgis Brown

  • Oct. 17 at Spearfish

What’s at Stake

For Pierre, this game represents an opportunity to defend its top-class ranking and begin another title push. The Governors’ dominance in recent years has set a high standard, and a strong start would reinforce their place as one of the most feared teams in the state.

For Aberdeen Central, it’s all about proving they can compete with the elite. A road victory over Pierre would immediately put the Golden Eagles in the conversation as a serious contender in Class 11AA.

The Bottom Line

With both teams looking to start fresh, expect a spirited season opener. Pierre brings the pedigree, but Aberdeen Central has the hunger. Under the Friday night lights in Pierre, fans can expect a hard-hitting matchup that sets the tone for the 2025 season.

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