The Wardlaw Academy varsity football team from Johnston, SC, will take the field at home against Laurens Academy from Laurens, SC, in a non-conference matchup on Friday, August 29, at 7:30 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Wardlaw Academy vs Laurens Academy
When: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
Laurens Academy Looks to Extend Winning Streak Against Wardlaw Academy Friday Night
Laurens Academy (Laurens, SC) will hit the road for a non-conference showdown against Wardlaw Academy (Johnston, SC) on Friday, August 29, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Wardlaw’s home field. Both teams are coming off contrasting starts to the 2025 season, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup.
Season Starts: Momentum vs. Recovery
Laurens Academy enters the contest with a perfect 1-0 record after a 30-14 victory over Newberry Academy in their season opener. The Lions have been strong on both sides of the ball, averaging 265 total yards per game while allowing just 14 points in their first outing.
Wardlaw Academy, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back after a 44-22 loss in their season opener against King Academy. The Warriors have shown offensive potential, averaging 22 points per game, but have struggled defensively, giving up 44 points in their first matchup.
Key Players to Watch
For Laurens Academy, quarterback Ethan Collins has been a standout, throwing for 148 yards and also leading the team in total yards. Running back Mason Cooper adds balance on the ground with 85 rushing yards per game, while Riley Whittaker has emerged as a reliable receiving threat, averaging 71 yards per game. Defensively, Nathan Bell leads the team with 14 tackles per game, supported by Garrison Vaughn, who has recorded 1 sack.
Wardlaw Academy will need to rely on a balanced offensive attack and tighten up their defense to contain Laurens’ potent playmakers.
Statistical Edge
Laurens Academy holds a clear advantage in nearly every statistical category, with 110 rushing yards, 155 passing yards, and 265 total yards per game. Their defense also boasts 48 tackles per game and 1 sack, giving them a solid edge against a Wardlaw team still searching for offensive consistency.
Looking Ahead
Friday’s matchup is the first of two meetings between the two schools this season. Wardlaw Academy will get a chance to host Laurens Academy later in the year on October 3, adding another layer of significance to Friday night’s game.
With Laurens Academy riding early momentum and Wardlaw Academy eager to rebound, fans can expect a fast-paced, competitive contest. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. under the lights at Wardlaw Academy.
