Montana high school football fans are in for an intriguing non-conference matchup this week as the Powell County Hawks travel to face the Cut Bank Cubs on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. The game location is to be announced, but the stakes are clear: both programs aim to establish early-season momentum and demonstrate their strengths in this competitive showdown.
Matchup: Powell County vs Cut Bank
Date: Friday., Sep. 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch here
After Cut Bank’s narrow opening-week victory and Powell County entering the season fresh, this game offers a compelling test of preparation, execution, and adaptability.
Powell County Hawks: Season Opener
The Powell County Hawks, hailing from Deer Lodge, MT, enter this matchup with a clean slate. Having not yet played a game in the 2025 season, the Hawks come in 0-0, bringing fresh energy and motivation to claim their first win against Cut Bank.
Offensive Outlook
While specific individual statistics were not provided, Powell County will look to establish a balanced offensive attack. Generating points early and avoiding turnovers will be essential against a Cut Bank team that has already shown it can win tight games.
Defensive Considerations
Powell County’s defense will be tested against a Cut Bank squad that won its opener 14-12 over Thompson Falls. The Hawks will aim to limit big plays, control the line of scrimmage, and force errors that could swing momentum in their favor.
Cut Bank Cubs: Riding Early Momentum
The Cut Bank Cubs come into this game with a 1-0 record, having secured a close 14-12 victory over Thompson Falls in their season opener. Ranked 45th nationally in Montana’s 2025 classifications, Cut Bank has proven it can win tight contests and execute under pressure.
Offensive Perspective
Cut Bank’s scoring breakdown in Week 1 included 0 points in the first quarter, 8 points in the second, and 6 points in the third, showing an offense capable of adjusting and finding opportunities as the game progresses. The Cubs will aim to translate that adaptive approach into a strong start against Powell County.
Defensive Outlook
The Cubs’ defense allowed just 12 points in their opener, signaling resilience in critical moments. Against Powell County, maintaining pressure, containing the run, and minimizing big plays will be central to preserving their winning form.
Comparative Insights
| Team | Record | Points For | Points Against | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powell County | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | Fresh slate, unknown strengths/weaknesses |
| Cut Bank | 1-0 | 14 | 12 | Narrow opening win, resilient defense |
While Powell County has yet to play a game, Cut Bank has already demonstrated the ability to win in close contests. This matchup will reveal whether Powell County’s preparation and talent can overcome the Cubs’ early-season experience.
Key Matchup Factors
For Powell County:
- First-Quarter Scoring: Establishing momentum early will be vital to avoid playing catch-up.
- Defensive Pressure: Forcing turnovers and disrupting Cut Bank’s offensive rhythm could shift the game’s trajectory.
- Ball Control: Sustaining drives will be essential to limit Cut Bank’s scoring opportunities.
For Cut Bank:
- Start Strong: The Cubs must avoid slow starts like in their opener and score in the first quarter to set the tone.
- Consistency on Defense: Limiting Powell County’s scoring chances will be key to maintaining control of the game.
- Adaptable Offense: Capitalizing on adjustments mid-game, as they did in Week 1, could secure another tight victory.
Record Snapshot
Powell County Hawks (0-0)
- Overall: 0-0
- League: 0-0
- Non-League: 0-0
- Head-to-Head: 0-0
- Common Opponents: 0-0
Cut Bank Cubs (1-0)
- Overall: 1-0
- League: 0-0
- Non-League: 1-0
- Head-to-Head: 0-0
- Common Opponents: 1-0
Both teams are poised for an exciting, competitive matchup that could set the tone for their non-conference schedules.
What’s at Stake
This game is more than just a regular-season opener for Powell County. For the Cubs, a win would build confidence and demonstrate their ability to handle tight contests on the road.
- Powell County: A chance to make an immediate impact and gain momentum with a season-opening victory.
- Cut Bank: An opportunity to solidify their early success and show consistency against new competition.
Final Thoughts
The Powell County vs Cut Bank contest is shaping up as a classic Montana high school football clash. With Powell County seeking its first win and Cut Bank aiming to extend its early-season success, fans can expect a game filled with intensity, strategic adjustments, and critical plays in key moments.
Expect a hard-fought matchup with both teams hungry for victory and looking to gain an early foothold in the 2025 season.
For more coverage of Montana and other state high school football games, explore Massachusetts High School Football events. To follow your team’s schedule and scores in real-time, visit Find Your School.
