The Bogalusa Lumberjacks face off against the Riverdale Rebels in an exciting season-opening football game. This highly anticipated matchup marks the first game for both teams in the 2025 season, with kickoff scheduled for Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 5 p.m. The Rebels will host the Lumberjacks at Hoss Memstas Stadium in Jefferson, Louisiana.
What: Louisiana High School Football
Who: Bogalusa Lumberjacks (LA) vs Riverdale Rebels (LA)
When: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. ET
Where: Hoss Memstas Stadium
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network
This non-conference game pits two Louisiana high school football teams against each other. Bogalusa, with a 0-0 record, and Riverdale, also at 0-0, will both be looking to start their season with a crucial victory. For more on Louisiana high school football events, visit our extensive coverage at
Season Opener Showdown
The air buzzes with anticipation as the high school football season officially kicks off across Louisiana. Bogalusa and Riverdale, both entering the 2025 campaign with a clean slate, have a chance to set the tone for their season. This is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity for each squad to make a statement. The winning team will carry momentum and confidence into their upcoming schedule, while the losing team must regroup and address early-season challenges.
The matchup takes place at Hoss Memstas Stadium, a familiar and challenging venue for visiting teams. Riverdale holds the home-field advantage, and their fans will undoubtedly be loud and proud, trying to give their Rebels an edge. The Lumberjacks, however, are no strangers to playing on the road and are prepared to battle in a hostile environment. Both teams will need to be mentally and physically sharp to secure a victory.
The Teams: A Tale of Two Squads
While both teams start with an identical 0-0 record, a closer look at their profiles reveals some interesting details. Bogalusa holds a slightly higher national and state ranking compared to Riverdale. The Lumberjacks are nationally ranked at 5,955 and are 136 in Louisiana, while the Rebels sit at 9,043 nationally and 202 in the state. Bogalusa also boasts a higher ranking within its class, at 9, compared to Riverdale’s 31.
These rankings reflect an expectation of each team’s potential performance, but they are not the only factor in this game. Riverdale has an opportunity to defy expectations on their home turf. Similarly, the Lumberjacks will be driven to prove they deserve their higher ranking and are a force to be reckoned with this season.
Breaking Down the Records
Both teams enter the contest with no prior wins, losses, or ties, so their overall, home, and away records are all 0-0. This clean slate creates a unique dynamic where neither team has an established track record for the current season. This game will establish their first win percentage, a key statistic that can influence a team’s morale for weeks to come. The first team to score will also earn the first points of their season, setting a new benchmark for points for (PF) and points against (PA).
This non-conference matchup means the outcome will not affect either team’s league standings. However, a win would be a significant morale boost before they begin district play. The head-to-head record is also tied at 0-0, making this a historic first meeting in the 2025 season. Neither team has faced a common opponent yet, so there is no shared frame of reference to predict the outcome.
What to Watch For
The battle between the Bogalusa Lumberjacks and the Riverdale Rebels will be a true test of early-season preparation. Here are some key areas to watch:
Offensive Performance
Both offenses are unproven in a game environment this year. Will a dominant running game emerge? Can a quarterback connect with his receivers for a big play? The team that can establish a rhythm early and execute its game plan will have a major advantage. Keep an eye on the offensive lines; their ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes will be crucial.
Defensive Stand
Defense often wins championships, and this game is a perfect opportunity for a defense to make a name for itself. A strong defensive performance can change the momentum of a game, creating turnovers and stifling the opposing team’s offense. The defense that forces the most mistakes, whether through sacks, interceptions, or fumbles, will likely lead its team to victory.
Special Teams
In a tight game, special teams can be the deciding factor. A long kickoff return, a clutch field goal, or a well-executed punt can swing momentum and give a team a late-game edge. Don’t underestimate the role of kickers, punters, and returners. Their performance could ultimately determine the outcome of this contest.
A Look Ahead: The Road to Success
For both the Lumberjacks and the Rebels, this game is the first step on a long and challenging journey. Every snap, every tackle, and every touchdown matters as they build their season. The performance on August 28 will set a precedent and provide valuable insights into each team’s strengths and weaknesses. It will be an exciting and telling start to the 2025 Louisiana high school football season. Make sure to stay tuned.
