UNION, KY — The Friday night lights burn brightest when tradition clashes with ambition. This week, all eyes in Northern Kentucky turn to Cooper High School as the host Jaguars (0-1) prepare for a formidable non-conference test against the visiting Fort Thomas Highlands Bluebirds (1-0). Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM on Friday, August 29, in a matchup that promises to set the tone for both teams’ 2025 campaigns.

What: Kentucky High School Football
Who: Highlands vs Cooper
When: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Cooper High School
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

This early-season duel presents a classic contrast. Highlands, a perennial state powerhouse ranked #3 in Kentucky, enters with momentum after a hard-fought Week 1 victory. Cooper, ranked #10 statewide, looks to defend its home turf and rebound from a tough opening-night loss. The statistical tale of the tape reveals two teams with divergent week-one outcomes but similar ground-game philosophies, setting the stage for a physical, grind-it-out affair.

For fans eager to witness this Kentucky high school football event, digital tickets are available for purchase in advance through GoFan.

Week 1 Recap: A Tale of Two Outcomes

The Bluebirds soared into their new season with a nail-biting 21-20 victory, a win that undoubtedly tested their resolve. Overcoming a close score builds character, and Head Coach Bob Sphire will look to leverage that experience. The team’s ability to perform under pressure, particularly in overtime where they secured 14 of their 21 points, proves they have the clutch gene.

Conversely, the Cooper Jaguars stumbled out of the gate, falling 52-10 in a road contest. While the scoreline is lopsided, Week 1 often serves as a learning experience rather than a definitive verdict. Head Coach Randy Borchers and his staff have a full week of practice to address defensive gaps and refine their offensive scheme. The Jaguars’ pride, especially playing in front of their home crowd for the first time this season, will be a massive motivator.

Offensive Attack: Balanced Bluebirds vs. Ground-and-Pound Jaguars

A deep dive into the offensive statistics reveals the initial identity of each squad.

The Highlands offense operates with a multi-faceted approach. Quarterback Rio Litmer has already established himself as a dual threat, averaging 133 passing yards and contributing significantly to a total offensive output of 313 yards per game. His favorite target, wide receiver Cale Harris, poses a downfield threat after hauling in 93 receiving yards in the opener. However, the ground game remains a crucial component. Running back Gabe Williams averages 84 rushing yards per contest and also leads the defense in tackles, showcasing his vital two-way role.

Cooper’s offense, based on the small sample size, leans heavily on a powerful rushing attack. Despite the team’s loss, running back Keagan Maher emerged as a clear bright spot, exploding for 176 rushing yards. His performance single-handedly kept the Jaguars competitive and will be the focal point of their game plan against Highlands. The passing game, led by quarterback Cam O’Hara (48 passing yards), will look to find more consistency, with receiver Ryker Campbell (32 receiving yards) as the primary option.

The key offensive matchup will be Cooper’s strong rushing offense (166 ypg) against a Highlands defense that just surrendered 20 points. If Maher can find success early, it opens up play-action opportunities for O’Hara. For Highlands, establishing their more diverse attack will force Cooper’s defense to defend the entire field.

Defensive Stand: Tackling Will Be Paramount

Defensive statistics from Week 1 show a stark contrast in production. Highlands’ defense recorded a robust 44 tackles, with Gabe Williams’s 8 tackles leading the charge. Their ability to swarm to the ball and make stops was a critical factor in their narrow win.

Cooper’s defense, which registered 9 tackles as a team, will need a monumental effort to contain Litmer and the Bluebirds’ offense. Linebacker Carson Clark (4 tackles) will need to be everywhere on Friday, plugging running lanes and providing pressure on passing downs. The Jaguars must improve their tackling efficiency and generate more disruptive plays to give their offense a chance.

Players to Watch

• Highlands QB Rio Litmer (#6): The engine of the Bluebirds’ offense. His ability to make plays with his arm and his legs makes him a constant threat.

• Highlands RB/LB Gabe Williams (#1): A true ironman. His production on both sides of the ball will be invaluable. Containing Maher on defense will be just as important as his rushing on offense.

• Cooper RB Keagan Maher (#21): The workhorse. Cooper’s success hinges on his ability to control the clock, move the chains, and find the end zone.

• Cooper LB Carson Clark (#70): The defensive leader. His performance in reading Highlands’ offense and making tackles at the second level could dictate the game’s flow.

The Intangibles: History and Home Field

While this is a non-conference game, the regional rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity. Highlands carries the weight of its storied tradition and a state-ranking target on its back. A 2-0 start would solidify their status as a true contender.

For Cooper, the narrative is about response. There is no better way to erase the memory of a Week 1 blowout than by upsetting a top-five team on your own field. The energy from the home crowd could provide the Jaguars with the emotional surge needed to compete for all four quarters.

Prediction and Outlook

On paper, the Highlands Bluebirds appear to be the favorites. Their Week 1 win, balanced offense, and stout defensive tackling give them a more complete look. However, high school football is rarely that simple.

Cooper’s devastating loss could either demoralize a team or unite it. The Jaguars have a proven weapon in Keagan Maher, and if they can control the time of possession and limit turnovers, they can absolutely make this a game. The home opener under the lights provides a perfect storm for an upset.

Expect a physical, emotional game where the line of scrimmage is king. The team that establishes the run and wins the turnover battle will likely emerge victorious. Highlands’ experience in close games might be the ultimate difference, but Cooper’s resilience will be tested and proven one way or another.

This matchup is more than just a Week 2 game; it’s a statement opportunity for both programs. For Highlands, it’s a chance to prove their dominance remains unchallenged. For Cooper, it’s an opportunity to announce that Week 1 was a fluke and that they are a force to be reckoned with.