The 2025 high school football season continues to heat up in Minnesota with an intriguing matchup scheduled for Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m., as the Alexandria (MN) varsity football team hosts Monticello (MN) at Alexandria High School. Both teams are looking to establish early-season momentum, but they come into the game with very different starts, making this non-conference matchup a must-watch for fans and scouts alike.
Matchup: Monticello vs Alexandria
Date: Friday., Sep. 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch here
Monticello: Offense in High Gear
The Monticello (MN) Panthers (25-26) enter this contest riding high after a convincing 34-18 victory over Sauk Rapids-Rice in their season opener. Ranked #2,471 nationally and #33 in Minnesota Class 9, Monticello has demonstrated a balanced and explosive offense, capable of scoring in multiple ways.
Scoring Highlights
Monticello’s season opener showed a well-rounded offensive attack, with scoring distributed across all quarters except the fourth. The Panthers put up 7 points in the first quarter, 14 in the second, and 13 in the third, finishing the game with 34 points. This consistency reflects both strategic planning by the coaching staff and versatility among the players, which will be key when facing Alexandria’s defense.
Offensive Approach
While detailed individual stats are unavailable, Monticello’s offensive scheme emphasizes a mix of rushing and passing, designed to exploit defensive weaknesses. The ability to maintain scoring pressure throughout the first three quarters suggests the Panthers can adapt to in-game adjustments, a critical trait when playing on the road against a hungry opponent.
Alexandria: Seeking Early Redemption
On the other side, Alexandria (MN) Royals (25-26) enter this matchup 0-1, coming off a narrow 22-24 loss in their season opener. Nationally ranked #1,406 and #8 in Minnesota Class 4, the Royals have shown flashes of potential but need to tighten execution to bounce back against a confident Monticello squad.
Offensive Potential
Despite the loss, Alexandria scored 22 points in their opener, demonstrating that the team has offensive weapons capable of producing points against tough defenses. The Royals will need to focus on sustaining drives and converting red-zone opportunities if they want to keep pace with Monticello’s balanced attack.
Defensive Challenges
Alexandria’s defense allowed 24 points in their first game, indicating vulnerabilities that Monticello may aim to exploit. Limiting big plays, maintaining gap discipline, and creating turnovers will be essential for the Royals to protect their home turf and stay competitive in this non-conference clash.
Key Matchups to Monitor
Several matchups could heavily influence the outcome of this game:
| Category | Monticello | Alexandria | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 1-0 | 0-1 | Panthers enter with early-season momentum; Royals seek redemption |
| Points Per Game | 34 | 22 | Monticello holds the edge offensively |
| Points Allowed | 18 | 24 | Alexandria will need defensive adjustments to contain Monticello |
| Offensive Style | Balanced | Opportunistic | Monticello aims to exploit weaknesses; Alexandria will rely on efficiency |
| Key Factor | Consistent scoring | Home field and adjustments | Execution and early-game momentum may determine the winner |
Game Implications
Although a non-conference matchup, the outcome carries weight for both programs. For Monticello, a win would reinforce their early-season dominance and help build confidence for the challenging weeks ahead. For Alexandria, a victory would signal resilience and provide momentum as they move deeper into the season.
This game could also offer early insights into each team’s potential playoff trajectory. Monticello’s ability to score consistently and control the pace of the game may serve as a blueprint for their approach against future opponents. Conversely, Alexandria’s response to adversity in this matchup could define their season’s character.
Strategic Keys to Victory
Monticello
- Maintain Offensive Pressure: Keep Alexandria’s defense on their heels with a mix of run and pass plays.
- Avoid Turnovers: Protect the football to sustain momentum.
- Exploit Defensive Gaps: Utilize quick adjustments to attack weak points in Alexandria’s defensive setup.
Alexandria
- Defensive Discipline: Limit big plays and force Monticello to execute multiple downs.
- Sustain Drives: Keep the offense on the field to control time of possession.
- Home Field Advantage: Leverage the crowd and familiar surroundings to build energy and pressure the visiting team.
Looking Ahead
Monticello and Alexandria have promising seasons ahead, but this matchup offers both teams a chance to gauge strengths and weaknesses early. Fans can expect an engaging contest featuring strategic plays, hard-hitting defense, and key individual performances that may shape the early season narrative for Minnesota high school football.
While Monticello enters with momentum, Alexandria has the home advantage and the opportunity to rebound from an opening-week setback. The game promises competitive action and a preview of what to expect from both programs in the weeks ahead.
For live updates, scores, and more high school football coverage, check out Massachusetts High School Football events and Find Your School.
