When the Platte County Pirates travel to face the William Chrisman Bears on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7 p.m., fans in Independence, Missouri, will be treated to a matchup that sets the tone for the upcoming season. This game, hosted at William Chrisman High School, is more than just an early-season contest—it’s a chance for both programs to prove themselves in a competitive conference environment.
Matchup: Platte County vs Chrisman
Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch here
While both teams enter this matchup with fresh records at 0-0, the stakes are already high. Platte County, ranked 1,046 nationally, 14th in Missouri, and 2nd in its class, comes in with a strong reputation and expectations of another competitive year. On the other side, Chrisman is positioned at 9,168 nationally, 191st in Missouri, and 45th in its class, a ranking that shows they have ground to cover but also plenty of motivation to upset a top-tier opponent.
Team Records and Rankings
Both teams are entering this game with clean slates, which means this matchup will be their first opportunity to establish rhythm and identity in the 2025–26 season.
- Platte County (2025–26 Season)
- National Rank: 1,046
- Missouri State Rank: 14
- Class Rank: 2
- Overall Record: 0-0
- Home/Away Record: 0-0 (no games yet played)
- Chrisman (2025–26 Season)
- National Rank: 9,168
- Missouri State Rank: 191
- Class Rank: 45
- Overall Record: 0-0
- Home/Away Record: 0-0 (season opener)
While Platte County holds a significantly higher ranking, preseason records don’t always dictate results. Rivalries and early-season energy often play just as important a role as statistics.
Common Opponents
Both programs share several common opponents this season, offering a preview of how their paths will cross indirectly in conference play.
- Platte County’s key matchups
- Sept. 5, 2025 – vs. Grain Valley
- Sept. 12, 2025 – vs. Fort Osage
- Sept. 26, 2025 – vs. Belton
- Oct. 10, 2025 – @ Truman
- Oct. 17, 2025 – vs. Ruskin
- Oct. 24, 2025 – @ Raytown
- Chrisman’s key matchups
- Sept. 5, 2025 – vs. Ruskin
- Sept. 12, 2025 – @ Grain Valley
- Sept. 26, 2025 – vs. Truman
- Oct. 3, 2025 – vs. Belton
- Oct. 17, 2025 – @ Raytown
- Oct. 24, 2025 – vs. Fort Osage
This overlap provides a solid measuring stick for both teams as the season progresses. Games against programs like Grain Valley, Fort Osage, and Raytown will be especially telling in comparing their competitiveness.
Matchup Breakdown
Platte County Pirates
Platte County enters the season with a proven track record of competitiveness. Ranked second in their class across Missouri, the Pirates have the depth and discipline needed to contend in conference play. While no statistics are available yet for 2025, the Pirates traditionally bring balance on both sides of the ball, with strong offensive execution and a disciplined defensive unit.
The key for Platte County will be starting the season with intensity. Early victories not only build momentum but also reinforce their high ranking, which puts a target on their backs each week.
William Chrisman Bears
Chrisman is facing an uphill battle in terms of rankings, but home-field advantage could play a critical role. The Bears, ranked 45th in their class, have the chance to make an early statement against a heavily favored opponent.
For Chrisman, this game is about proving they can compete with Missouri’s top-tier programs. Even a close contest would build confidence heading into the rest of the season, but pulling off an upset would instantly change the narrative surrounding their year.
What’s at Stake
This conference clash is more than just a season opener:
- For Platte County: A victory reinforces their top-tier reputation and sets the tone for another strong campaign. A loss, however, could shake confidence and give other teams in the conference hope of knocking them off.
- For Chrisman: An upset at home would be monumental. It would not only raise their profile across Missouri football but also energize their roster and community. For a program ranked much lower, these are the kinds of games that can spark momentum for the rest of the year.
Keys to Watch
- Early Execution – As both teams enter with no games played, execution in the opening quarter will be telling.
- Turnovers – Season openers often come with mistakes. Whichever team protects the football will gain a clear advantage.
- Home-Field Advantage – Chrisman will look to harness the energy of their crowd to slow down Platte County’s momentum.
- Defensive Pressure – Both squads will test their defensive lines early. Generating pressure could be the difference-maker.
Looking Ahead
While this matchup is a critical test, both teams still have long seasons ahead. Platte County faces a tough stretch with games against Fort Osage and Raytown, while Chrisman will test their resilience in matchups with Grain Valley and Belton.
Fans eager to follow the season beyond this game can explore Massachusetts High School Football events or check specific updates for schools and states nationwide through the Find Your School tool.
Final Thoughts
The Platte County vs Chrisman showdown on August 29 isn’t just another season opener—it’s a matchup that highlights the balance of power in Missouri high school football. Platte County steps in as the heavy favorite, but Chrisman has the chance to surprise everyone on their home field.
Whether it ends as a showcase of Platte County’s dominance or a breakthrough moment for Chrisman, this game promises to deliver intensity, passion, and the unmistakable excitement of high school football under the Friday night lights.
