The Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland, SC) varsity football team will host Orangeburg Prep (Orangeburg, SC) for a non-conference matchup tonight at 7:30 PM.

Game Details:

• Matchup: Orangeburg Prep vs Thomas Heyward Academy

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

• Cheer Support: Lil Rebel / Mini Cheer

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

Stay tuned for live updates and score tracking throughout the game!

Orangeburg Prep Tops Thomas Heyward Academy in Early Season Clash

The Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland, SC) varsity football team faced a tough test at home against Orangeburg Prep in their 2025 non-conference matchup. Despite a spirited effort, the Rebels fell short, losing 20-13 to a strong Orangeburg Prep squad.

Team Comparisons

Heading into the game, Orangeburg Prep held a 1-1 overall record, boasting an impressive national ranking of 10,721 and a state ranking of 195 in Class 3. Thomas Heyward Academy entered the matchup winless at 0-1, though nationally ranked higher at 7,673 with a state rank of 146.

While Orangeburg Prep averaged 71 rushing yards per game and 146 passing yards per game, Thomas Heyward Academy relied more heavily on their rushing attack, gaining 163 rushing yards per game but only 52 passing yards. Both teams were nearly even in total yards per game, with Orangeburg Prep slightly ahead at 217 yards versus Thomas Heyward’s 215.

Scoring Summary

The game featured back-and-forth action, with Orangeburg Prep scoring early in the first quarter and finishing strong in the fourth. Thomas Heyward Academy struggled to find rhythm initially but rallied in the second and fourth quarters. Quarter-by-quarter scoring broke down as follows:

• Orangeburg Prep: Q1 – 7, Q2 – 0, Q3 – 3.5, Q4 – 10, Final – 20.5

• Thomas Heyward Academy: Q1 – 0, Q2 – 6, Q3 – 0, Q4 – 7, Final – 13

Standout Performers

For Orangeburg Prep, #3 J’syri Parker led the ground attack with 28.5 rushing yards per game, while #7 Cholly Williams contributed 146 passing yards per game. On the Thomas Heyward side, Tony O’Banner carried the load with an outstanding 101 rushing yards, 52 passing yards, and 153 total yards per game. Receiver Joshua Gibson added 53 receiving yards, showing promise for the young team.

Looking Ahead

Orangeburg Prep improves to 1-1 and will look to build momentum in upcoming league games. Thomas Heyward Academy, now 0-1, faces a challenging schedule, including matchups against Andrew Jackson Academy and Patrick Henry Academy later this season. The Rebels hope to get back on track as they continue to develop their offensive and defensive schemes.

Conclusion

Despite the loss, Thomas Heyward Academy showed flashes of potential, particularly in the ground game led by Tony O’Banner. Orangeburg Prep’s balanced attack and solid defensive play ultimately proved the difference, giving the visitors a narrow victory on the road. The season is still young, and both teams have plenty of opportunities to sharpen their strategies as they pursue playoff aspirations.