The lights will shine bright in San Antonio as the Highlands Owls open their 2025 football season against the Pleasanton Eagles. This non-conference matchup is set for Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Highlands High School.
Both programs are eager to kick off their campaigns with a strong showing. For Pleasanton, the game provides an opportunity to prove they belong among Texas’ competitive mid-tier programs, while Highlands will defend its home turf and look to send an early message to district rivals.
This Pleasanton vs Highlands battle brings together two proud South Texas communities, each with expectations that go beyond just opening night.
Game Info: Pleasanton vs Highlands
- Matchup: Pleasanton Eagles vs Highlands Owls
- Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Highlands High School, San Antonio, TX
- Type: Non-conference game
- Records: Pleasanton (0-0), Highlands (0-0)
Rankings & Team Overview
Pleasanton Eagles (2025-26 Season)
- National Rank: 6,065
- Texas Rank: 688
- Section Rank: 314
- Division Rank: 61
- Overall Record: 0-0
Pleasanton enters 2025 with the higher preseason ranking between the two programs. Their spot inside the top 700 in Texas suggests a team with both returning talent and promising depth. The Eagles have a tradition of disciplined football, and their coaching staff will expect the players to translate offseason work into results.
Highlands Owls (2025-26 Season)
- National Rank: 11,142
- Texas Rank: 1,060
- Section Rank: 283
- Division Rank: 108
- Overall Record: 0-0
Highlands begins the season further down the rankings, but the Owls are no strangers to adversity. With home-field advantage and a passionate crowd behind them, they’ll be motivated to rise above the projections. The Owls’ defense in particular will be under the spotlight, tasked with containing Pleasanton’s balanced attack.
Common Opponents
The Pleasanton vs Highlands showdown may be non-conference, but both schools share a common future opponent: Jefferson.
- Pleasanton will take on Jefferson on September 5, 2025.
- Highlands meets Jefferson later in the season on October 17, 2025.
These matchups will offer additional context for how the two programs measure up during the course of the season.
Keys to Victory
Pleasanton Eagles
- Set the Tempo Early: The Eagles must strike quickly to put Highlands on the defensive. A fast start could silence the home crowd.
- Protect the Football: Turnovers could swing momentum in a close game. Ball security will be crucial.
- Establish the Run Game: A steady ground attack will allow Pleasanton to control time of possession.
Highlands Owls
- Leverage Home-Field Energy: Playing in San Antonio gives the Owls an emotional edge. They must feed off their crowd’s energy.
- Defensive Discipline: Pleasanton thrives on punishing mistakes. Highlands must remain sharp in coverage and gap assignments.
- Capitalize on Red Zone Chances: Converting drives into touchdowns rather than field goals could make all the difference.
What’s at Stake
While this game doesn’t carry district implications, the implications are still significant.
- For Pleasanton: Winning on the road would validate their preseason ranking and build confidence before district play begins.
- For Highlands: Knocking off a higher-ranked team would set the tone for the season, proving the Owls are not to be underestimated.
The Pleasanton vs Highlands contest will also serve as a measuring stick. Coaches from both programs will analyze this matchup closely to identify strengths and weaknesses heading into the more demanding parts of their schedules.
Atmosphere in San Antonio
San Antonio is known for its passionate high school football culture, and Highlands’ home games never lack atmosphere. Expect a strong showing from both local supporters and traveling Pleasanton fans. The energy inside the stadium will reflect the pride both communities take in their programs.
A Thursday night kickoff adds to the anticipation, setting the stage for an electric opener under the lights.
Player Spotlight
Pleasanton Eagles
- Quarterback: Must manage the offense with poise, keeping the defense honest through a mix of passes and option plays.
- Running Back Corps: Their ability to consistently move the chains will dictate game flow.
- Defensive Line: Generating pressure and containing Highlands’ offense will be essential.
Highlands Owls
- Skill Players: Speed on the outside could stretch Pleasanton’s defense.
- Linebackers: They’ll need to play disciplined football, especially against Pleasanton’s rushing attack.
- Special Teams: A big return or critical kick could tilt momentum.
Prediction
This game is shaping up to be competitive despite the rankings gap. Pleasanton’s balanced roster gives them an edge, but Highlands has the intangibles of home-field advantage and hunger to prove doubters wrong.
Projected Score: Pleasanton 27, Highlands 20
Expect a physical game, with Pleasanton pulling ahead late thanks to a strong running game. However, don’t be surprised if Highlands makes it a nail-biter in the fourth quarter.
Why Fans Should Watch
- Regional Pride: South Texas matchups always deliver passion and energy.
- Season Opener: Both teams will be unveiling new talent and strategies.
- Underdog Factor: Highlands has the opportunity to shock Pleasanton and flip the narrative.
For those who follow Texas high school football, the Pleasanton vs Highlands clash is one of many early-season games that highlight the depth of competition across the state.
Bigger Picture in Texas High School Football
Games like this demonstrate why Texas remains the heartland of high school football. Beyond the rankings, the Pleasanton vs Highlands matchup showcases grit, preparation, and community pride. Both programs know they aren’t competing just for themselves, but for the towns and fans who stand behind them.
For continued updates, fans can follow coverage of this game and others on Texas High School Football events, where statewide stories bring every region into focus.
Final Thoughts
As August 28 approaches, the anticipation grows. Pleasanton will arrive in San Antonio intent on starting strong, while Highlands will rally its community to protect home field. Both teams want to set the tone for their seasons, and this opener offers the perfect stage.
The Pleasanton vs Highlands matchup may not grab national headlines, but in South Texas, it’s a spotlight moment. When the Eagles and Owls collide, fans can expect an intense, competitive battle worthy of the Texas high school football tradition.
