North Carolina High School Football Games of the Week: Aug. 21-23

The Friday night lights blaze back to life this week as North Carolina high school football kicks off another season. While every game counts, some matchups carry extra weight, setting the tone for the year and offering early tests for teams with championship aspirations. From top-five showdowns to battles between state powerhouses, Week 1 is loaded with must-see contests. Here are five of the biggest games you won’t want to miss as the season gets underway.

No. 1 William Amos Hough vs. No. 6 South Pointe (S.C.)

When: Friday, August 22, 4 p.m. ET
Where: Huskies Stadium, Cornelius, North Carolina

Last year, the Huskies suffered their third consecutive season-ending loss to Grimsley. While winning state will be their primary goal, William Amos Hough must have an impressive regular season to earn that opportunity. North Carolina high school football’s top-ranked team will open the 2025 season against South Carolina’s South Pointe. Being at home should boost the Huskies’ winning chances.

Massey prediction: William Amos Hough 42, South Pointe 14

No. 4 Mallard Creek vs. No. 5 Rolesville

When: Friday, August 22, 7 p.m. ET
Where: Mallard Creek Football Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina

While Rolesville fell short against Grimsley in the North Carolina Class 4A state championship game, they still finished with an impressive 14-2 record. The Rams will start their 2025 schedule against Mallard Creek, a team that collected 10 wins and reached the 4A state tournament’s third round. This intense matchup projects to have the home team edging their higher-ranked opponent.

Massey prediction: Mallard Creek 27, Rolesville 22

No. 3 Weddington vs. No. 10 Mooresville

When: Friday, August 22, 7 p.m. ET
Where: Weddington Football Stadium, Matthews, North Carolina

The Warriors came one game short of the North Carolina Class 4A state championship game after losing to Grimsley in the semifinals. It’s the only loss Weddington suffered last season, which is an improvement from their two-loss campaign in 2023. For their season opener, they will welcome Mooresville, a team that went 11-2 in 2024. While the Blue Devils could be a gritty opponent, the Warriors should impose their dominance against their fellow Class 4A competitors. 

Massey prediction: Weddington 35, Mooresville 14

No. 11 Independence at No. 1 Gaffney (S.C.)

When: Friday, August 22, 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Reservation Stadium, Gaffney, South Carolina

Despite a second-round exit in last season’s North Carolina high school football Class 4A state tournament, the Patriots completed their third consecutive double-digit-win season via a 10-2 record. However, Independence will commence its 2025 campaign on the road against Gaffney, South Carolina’s top-ranked team. This will be a tough challenge for Independence.

Massey prediction: Gaffney 35, Independence 19

No. 6 West Charlotte vs No. 2 Grimsley

When: Friday, August 22, 8 p.m. ET
Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina

In addition to defending its North Carolina high school football Class 4A state championship, the Whirlies aim to extend their winning streak to 17 games after going undefeated in 2024. Standing in their way are the Lions, the defending Class 3A state champions. While West Charlotte has the means to make this match competitive, Grimsley should open its 2025 campaign with a convincing win at the Carolina Panthers’ home turf.

Massey prediction: Grimsley 35, West Charlotte 21

How to Follow North Carolina High School Football

For North Carolina high school football fans, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the gridiron excitement in the Tar Heel State.