LOUISVILLE, KY – The early season Kentucky high school football schedule delivers a compelling non-conference battle this Friday, August 29th, as the high-flying Nelson County Cardinals (1-0) travel to face the hungry DeSales Colts (0-1). Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM at DeSales High School in a matchup that pits two teams on very different trajectories after Week 1.
What: Kentucky High School Football
Who: Nelson County vs DeSales
When: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: DeSales High School
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
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Week 1 Momentum: A Tale of Two Outcomes
The opening week of the 2025 campaign told contrasting stories for these two programs. The Nelson County Cardinals emerged victorious from a hard-fought shootout, securing a 40-26 win. Their offense exploded in the final quarter, putting up a staggering 40 points to seal the victory and build immense confidence heading into Week 2.
Conversely, the DeSales Colts faced a tough challenge on the road, falling 41-21. The loss provides ample motivation and a clear checklist of items for Head Coach Harold Davis and his staff to address before their home opener. The Colts will be desperate to protect their home field and avoid an 0-2 hole to start the season.
Nelson County Cardinals: Riding an Offensive Wave
The Cardinals’ offense operates with potent efficiency, averaging 40 points per game. While the team stats show a modest 10 total yards per game—a figure that seems anomalous and is likely a data reporting error from Week 1—the scoreboard tells the true story: this team knows how to find the end zone.
Key players have already established themselves as leaders. Running back Aiden Watson (#22) anchors the ground game, averaging 6.0 rushing yards per contest. The passing attack, while showing room for growth, is led by quarterback Jacob Reynolds (#21). The clear standout weapon for the Cardinals is Brandt Kelley (#27), who serves as a dual-threat dynamo. Kelley leads the team with 23.0 receiving yards per game and an identical 23.0 all-purpose yards per game, making him the primary focus for the DeSales defense.
Head Coach Samuel Pierce will look to build on the explosive fourth-quarter performance. The key for Nelson County will be establishing their offensive rhythm earlier in the game and proving their Week 1 outburst was no fluke.
DeSales Colts: A Defense Seeking Redemption
The Colts’ defense had a difficult opening outing, surrendering 41 points. This week, the mission is simple: reset, refine, and respond. Playing in front of the home crowd for the first time this season should provide a significant energy boost. The DeSales defense is traditionally known for its physicality and discipline, and fans can expect a much more focused unit this Friday.
Specific individual stat leaders for DeSales are still emerging after one week, but this often signifies a team that utilizes a committee approach. Look for multiple players to step up and make their presence known. The Colts will need a collective effort to contain playmakers like Brandt Kelley and pressure QB Jacob Reynolds into mistakes.
The path to victory for DeSales hinges on controlling the clock with a powerful rushing attack and minimizing turnovers. A strong, ball-control offense can keep the potent Nelson County offense on the sidelines and allow the Colts’ defense to catch its breath and play aggressively.
Historical Context and What’s at Stake
While the head-to-head record between these two schools shows no recent meetings, the game carries significant weight for both sides. For Nelson County, a 2-0 start would be a massive statement of intent for the rest of their season, proving they can win on the road and are a legitimate threat in their class.
For DeSales, the stakes are even higher. An 0-2 start is a difficult mountain to climb for any team with playoff aspirations. A victory in their home opener would not only even their record but also restore confidence and demonstrate the resilience of the program. The pride of playing at home adds an extra layer of intensity to this matchup.
Key Matchups to Watch
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Nelson County’s Playmakers vs. DeSales’ Secondary: Can the Colts’ defensive backs contain Brandt Kelley and prevent the big, game-changing plays that defined Nelson County’s Week 1 win? This individual battle could decide the entire game.
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The Trenches: The battle at the line of scrimmage is always paramount. Nelson County’s offensive line must give Reynolds time to throw and open lanes for Watson. DeSales’ defensive front must disrupt timing and create penetration to stall the Cardinals’ attack.
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First Quarter Response: How will DeSales start the game? Will they come out with a fire and intensity, or will Nelson County’s high-powered offense quickly silence the home crowd? The first few drives will be critical in setting the tone.
How to Follow the Action
This non-conference clash promises to be one of the most intriguing games on the Friday night slate across Kentucky. Fans unable to make it to Louisville can follow all the live updates, stats, and analysis courtesy of our dedicated reporters. Steve Winters will be on the sideline providing live coverage for the DeSales Colts.
For the most comprehensive coverage before, during, and after the game, and for all things related to high school football in the state, your home is Kentucky High School Football Insider.
Prediction: A Battle of Willpower
This game is a classic early-season test of character. Nelson County carries the confidence of a win but must prove they can handle success and perform on the road. DeSales possesses the hunger of a team that feels it has something to prove, amplified by the energy of a home crowd.
Expect a physical, hard-hitting contest that remains close into the second half. The team that wins the turnover battle and makes the critical play in the fourth quarter will likely emerge victorious. While Nelson County’s offense is flashy, the resolve of a proud DeSales team at home might be the deciding factor. Look for the Colts to make enough key defensive stops to eke out a narrow, season-defining victory.
Final Score Prediction: DeSales 28, Nelson County 24
