The First Academy (Orlando, FL) varsity football team will host Central (Phenix City, AL) in an exciting home non-conference game on Friday, August 29 at 7 p.m. This matchup brings together two competitive programs, and fans can expect a thrilling night of high school football under the lights in Orlando.
Here’s what you need to know:
- What: Alabama High School Football
- Who: The First Academy vs Central
- When: Friday, August 29, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
The First Academy vs Central: A High-Stakes Non-Conference Matchup in Orlando
The spotlight will shine on Orlando, Florida, on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7 p.m., as The First Academy (TFA) welcomes Central (Phenix City, AL) for a highly anticipated non-conference football showdown. The clash, billed as The First Academy vs Central, pits two programs with different opening-week results against each other, setting the stage for a compelling early-season storyline.
For fans tracking Alabama High School Football, you can explore more upcoming games here
Setting the Scene
Both teams enter Week 2 in very different situations. Central (1-0) arrives in Orlando riding the momentum of a dominant win, while The First Academy (0-1) is searching for redemption after a hard-fought loss.
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Central (Phenix City, AL): Ranked No. 52 nationally, No. 2 in Alabama, and No. 2 in their class, Central has built a reputation as one of the state’s premier programs. They opened the season with an emphatic 59-16 win, showcasing offensive firepower and defensive discipline.
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The First Academy (Orlando, FL): Ranked No. 64 nationally, No. 10 in Florida, and No. 2 in their class, TFA dropped their opener 24-17, a close game that highlighted both potential and missed opportunities. Now, with home-field advantage, they aim to reset the tone of their season.
Team Scoring Averages
Looking at their early-season scoring numbers reveals much about each squad’s identity.
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Central (1-0) put up a staggering 59 points, with explosive performances across three quarters. They dominated in the first half, tallying 21 points in the first quarter and 24 in the second, effectively putting the game out of reach by halftime.
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The First Academy (0-1), meanwhile, scored 17 points in their opener. They struck early with a 7-point first quarter, added a field goal in the second, and rallied for another touchdown in the third, but the offense went quiet in the fourth.
This sets up a clash between Central’s high-octane scoring attack and TFA’s more methodical, balanced approach.
Statistical Comparison
Breaking down team stats shows the depth of Central’s dominance and the areas where The First Academy must improve to compete.
| Category | Central | The First Academy |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards/Game | 222.0 | 123.0 |
| Passing Yards/Game | 198.0 | 148.0 |
| Receiving Yards/Game | 228.0 | 148.0 |
| Total Yards/Game | 420.0 | 271.0 |
| Tackles/Game | 34.0 | 70.0 |
| Sacks/Game | 2.5 | – |
Key takeaway: Central thrives offensively with over 400 yards per game, splitting production between rushing and passing. TFA, on the other hand, has been forced to lean on defense, as indicated by their 70 tackles per game, far outpacing Central’s 34.
Standout Performers
Several key players are already making their mark early in the 2025 season.
Central (Phenix City, AL)
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#16 Jayshaun Woodhouse: Leading the rushing attack with 126.0 yards per game, he provides the ground dominance Central needs to control tempo.
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#12 Bobby Coleman: With 135.0 passing yards per game and 134 total yards, Coleman is the offensive conductor, balancing the run and pass game effectively.
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#11 Braylen Averett: A reliable target, Averett averages 97 receiving yards per game, making him a threat downfield.
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#17 Jack Ciancio: Paces the team with 10 points per game, highlighting his ability to finish drives.
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#44 Jathan Lyles: Anchors the defense with 1.0 sack per game, adding pressure in key moments.
The First Academy (Orlando, FL)
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#3 Brian Dillard Jr.: A versatile standout, he averages 68 rushing yards, 91 passing yards, and 161 total yards per game. His ability to play multiple roles makes him the backbone of TFA’s offense.
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#11 Brian Williams: Leading the receiving unit with 85 yards per game, Williams provides a reliable target in the passing game.
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#13 Ryon Smith: A defensive standout with 10 tackles per game, Smith embodies the Panthers’ scrappy defensive mentality.
Records and Trends
Both teams have just one game on record so far, but their early-season trends highlight critical differences.
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Central (1-0):
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1-0 overall
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1-0 in non-league play
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1-0 on the road
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Outscored their opponent 59-16
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Still undefeated in out-of-state games this year
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The First Academy (0-1):
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0-1 overall
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0-1 at home
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0-1 against out-of-state competition
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Outscored 24-17 in their lone contest
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This will be TFA’s second straight matchup against an out-of-state opponent, a test of both stamina and adaptability.
Key Matchup: Central’s Offense vs. TFA’s Defense
The defining battle in The First Academy vs Central will likely be Central’s offensive depth against TFA’s resilient defense.
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Central’s 420 total yards per game is elite, with weapons across the field.
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TFA’s defense, led by Ryon Smith and supported by a 70-tackle per game average, must step up to slow the Red Devils’ attack.
If TFA can disrupt Central’s offensive rhythm early, they might create the opportunity for their balanced offense, led by Dillard Jr., to grind out drives and keep the game close.
What’s at Stake
For Central, a win would solidify their standing as one of the top teams not just in Alabama but in the nation. Continuing to dominate out-of-state opponents would boost their national reputation.
For The First Academy, this game represents an opportunity for redemption. Losing the opener at home was a setback, but a win over a nationally ranked powerhouse like Central could completely change the trajectory of their season.
Final Thoughts
The non-conference showdown between The First Academy and Central is more than just another game—it’s a clash of two programs with lofty ambitions. Central brings an explosive, balanced offense, while TFA leans on grit, defense, and the versatility of Brian Dillard Jr.
As kickoff approaches, the biggest question remains: Can The First Academy withstand Central’s offensive firestorm, or will the Red Devils continue their early-season dominance?
One thing is certain—when the lights come on in Orlando at 7 p.m., fans are in for a matchup that will help shape the early storylines of the 2025 high school football season.
