The Ridgeland Secondary Academy of Excellence (Ridgeland, SC) varsity football team will host Whale Branch (Beaufort, SC) in a non-conference matchup tonight at 7:30 PM.

Game Details:

• Matchup: Whale Branch vs RSAOE

• Date & Time: Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM

• Location: Ridgeland Secondary Academy of Excellence (Ridgeland, SC)

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

Ridgeland Secondary Academy of Excellence Hosts Whale Branch in Friday Night Football Clash

Ridgeland, SC – The Ridgeland Secondary Academy of Excellence (RSAOE) varsity football team faces Whale Branch (Beaufort, SC) in a non-conference home matchup this Friday, September 5th, at 7:30 p.m. The game presents an opportunity for RSAOE to earn its first victory of the season against a team already off to a 1-1 start.

Team Records and Rankings
Whale Branch enters the matchup with an overall record of 1-1, boasting 40 points scored and 69 points allowed so far this season. The team is ranked 8,462nd nationally, 161st in South Carolina, and 21st in its class. RSAOE, meanwhile, is still seeking its first win, sitting at 0-2 with no points scored and 46 points allowed. The team is ranked slightly higher nationally at 8,052.

Offensive and Defensive Outlook
Whale Branch has been productive offensively, averaging 200.5 rushing yards, 55.5 passing yards, and 256 total yards per game. Jayvion Harris has led the team on the ground with 181 rushing yards per game and 193 total yards. The passing attack is led by Jermon Bowers (30.5 passing yards per game) and Takim Person (22 receiving yards per game). Defensively, Whale Branch has been stout with 36.5 tackles and 5.5 sacks per game, anchored by linebacker Iveyon Watson.

RSAOE, on the other hand, has struggled to generate offense and has yet to record statistics in rushing, passing, or receiving yards. Defensively, the team is averaging 20.5 tackles and 1 sack per game, with Denardo Henry and Javar Henderson emerging as leaders.

Key Matchups
The line of scrimmage will likely be decisive, as Whale Branch’s rushing attack and defensive pressure could test RSAOE’s developing offense. RSAOE will need to find ways to contain Jayvion Harris while trying to establish momentum offensively.

Common Opponents
Both teams are scheduled to face Hardeeville this season, though Whale Branch has already secured a 40-20 victory there, whereas RSAOE has yet to play Hardeeville. This common opponent could provide some insight into each team’s current form.

Looking Ahead
For RSAOE, Friday’s contest is more than just a game; it’s a chance to rebound from a difficult start and gain confidence moving forward. Whale Branch will aim to build on its early success and assert dominance on the road. Fans can expect a competitive matchup as Ridgeland Secondary Academy of Excellence looks to defend its home turf.