It’s that time of year again, the lights, the crowds, the buzz of a new season. The FHSAA high school football regular season officially kicks off Friday night across the state of Florida, and Central Florida is set to host a slate of marquee matchups filled with promising talent, coaching debuts, and plenty of storylines to track.

Here’s a look at some of the top games to watch in Week 1:

East Ridge at Eustis, 7 p.m.

A new era could be brewing at Eustis High. After a one-win season in 2024, the Panthers are showing signs of life behind promising sophomore quarterback Jackson Currie and a strong offseason on the 7v7 circuit. Head coach Darrell Harrison, entering his second season, brings back a solid core of players who have stayed loyal through the program’s recent ups and downs.

Their opponent, East Ridge, comes in with talent and momentum. Sophomore wide receiver Lamar Garrison is already being touted as one of the best in the state. He’ll be catching passes from quarterback Karon Palmer Jr., a transfer from Lake Minneola who impressed this summer.

East Ridge also added former Eustis head coach Frank Scott to its staff, along with Coach Sauce, adding depth and experience to the Knights’ sideline. Friday’s game will be an early litmus test for both programs.

Boone at Mount Dora, 7 p.m.

Mount Dora looks to build on last season’s playoff appearance, its first since 2014, when it hosts Boone High in a high-profile opening contest.

Junior quarterback Nick Kerr (6’3”) is under center for the Hurricanes, protected by a sturdy offensive line anchored by Shaddiel Torres. Running back Tymir Gaines also returns and is considered one of the top backs in Lake County.

Boone, which finished 5-5 last year, is reloaded and aiming to get back into postseason contention. Expect a physical, competitive game with plenty of firepower.

Wildwood at The Villages, 7 p.m.

One of Central Florida’s most spirited rivalries renews as Wildwood visits The Villages. Though the schools are now separated by more than just a couple miles, The Villages moved to the Middleton campus three years ago, the intensity remains.

The Villages enters the game on the heels of a strong preseason showing led by quarterback Jadence Kennedy. Wildwood, on the other hand, underwent a coaching change in the offseason so we will see what they can bring to the table. Wildwood’s athleticism and rivalry energy make this one intriguing. If anything else we will certainly learn what both teams bring to the table in 2025.

South Lake at Nature Coast Tech, 7 p.m.

South Lake enters 2025 with lofty expectations and a defense that’s already making noise after a 16-0 preseason shutout. Head coach Brad Lord, now in his third year, has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround after taking over a winless program.

Quarterback Tre Kelly leads a talented group that includes standout wide receivers Isaiah Pina and Keydrick Powell, plus a dynamic backfield with Malik Holman and Rome McKinnond. Nature Coast Tech finished 6-6 last season and provides a solid test for the Eagles who could do serious damage this season.

Tavares vs. Citrus, 7 p.m.

Tavares enters the season with playoff hopes after narrowly missing out in 2024. Defense is the strength of this team, led by linebacker duo Jelani and Ari Bentley. Running back Tamauri Collins adds punch on offense.

Citrus comes off a 1-9 season, making this matchup a potential springboard for Tavares as it prepares for a brutal upcoming schedule featuring South Lake, The Villages, Mount Dora, and Bishop Moore among others.

South Sumter at Haines City, 7:30 p.m.

After a 4-6 campaign in 2024 and the graduation of five Division I players, South Sumter enters 2025 with quarterback Landen Sherman at the helm. The Raiders, long known for spreading the ball across their roster, will look to reestablish their identity early against a competitive Haines City squad. This would be a great confidence boost for South Sumter to come out with a win. Also be on the lookout for the defense which should be anchored by Bubba Boone this season.

Umatilla at Tenoroc, 7:30 p.m.

Umatilla is riding high after a 53-6 rout of Stanton in its season opener last week. With expectations to be one of the top teams in the SSAA this year, the Bulldogs will be heavily favored on the road against Tenoroc.

MDCA at Lake Highland Prep, 6 p.m.

MDCA looks to bounce back from a narrow 19-14 season-opening loss to Fernandina Beach. A win on the road against Lake Highland Prep would get the Bulldogs back on track. This should be a highly competitive matchup with an early start time. Unless there is some cloud cover this could be a toasty game early in the first half.

Other Games Across the Region:

• Leesburg at University High, 7 p.m.

• McLaughlin at Lake Minneola, 7 p.m.

• Saint Francis Catholic Academy at FA-Leesburg, 7 p.m.

• ECHS at Liberty Christian Prep, 7 p.m.

• Calvary Chapel Academy at Real Life Christian Academy (RLCA), 7 p.m.

Photo Credit – Andrea Rush Photography