Rock Hill, SC, August 23, 2025
News Summary
The Northwestern Trojans kicked off their 2025 high school football season with a strong 39-7 victory against eighth-ranked Spartanburg. The Trojans dominated the game from the outset, leading 6-0 early and extending their advantage to 20-0 by halftime, thanks in part to a 100-yard interception return by Amarian Coleman. Despite a late touchdown from Spartanburg, Northwestern’s solid gameplay ensured a decisive win. With lofty preseason rankings and a restructured roster, including new transfers, the Trojans aim for continued success this season.
Rock Hill, SC – The Northwestern Trojans opened the 2025 high school football season on a high note with a commanding 39-7 victory over the eighth-ranked Spartanburg. This win places the Trojans solidly within the competitive landscape, as they are currently ranked No. 7 in The Charlotte Observer’s Carolinas top 25 preseason poll.
The Trojans wasted no time establishing their dominance, scoring on their opening possession to take an early lead of 6-0. Their defense quickly followed suit when Amarian Coleman intercepted a Spartanburg pass at his own goal line, returning it for a 100-yard touchdown and extending the lead significantly. By the end of the second quarter, the Trojans had built a commanding 20-0 lead, effectively controlling the game.
Spartanburg managed to score its only touchdown in the second half of the third quarter, but it was too little to counter the Trojans’ momentum. Northwestern sealed their victory with consistent play throughout the game, culminating in a decisive 39-7 final score.
Other notable games that took place on Thursday included AC Flora, who took down Westwood with a score of 30-19, May River defeating Airport 37-8, and Blythewood edging out Nation Ford 34-27. On Friday, No. 12 South Pointe experienced a setback in the Keep Pounding Classic, losing to Hough from Cornelius, N.C., by a score of 14-10.
Looking back at the previous seasons, Northwestern football sustained a record of 8-5 in 2023, which led them to a Las Vegas Bowl appearance. This strong season followed a challenging 2024, where they ended with a 4-8 record, mostly due to struggles in offensive performance. The Trojans faced significant changes in their roster, including the departure of quarterback Jack Lausch, who has shifted his focus to baseball. In light of these changes, experienced Preston Stone, a transfer from SMU, is slated to lead the Wildcats for the upcoming season.
Defensively, Anto Saka has gained recognition as a standout player, following a high ranking in pass rush effectiveness. Northwestern has accommodated their roster further by bringing in 15 new transfers in an effort to enhance both their offense and defense for the competitive 2025 season ahead.
The Trojans’ upcoming schedule introduces them to challenging new opponents, including teams ranked within the AP’s Top 25 preseason poll. Their next match is set against Somerset on August 29 at 7 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did the Northwestern Trojans play in their season opener?
The Northwestern Trojans played against eighth-ranked Spartanburg in their season opener.
What was the final score of the season opener?
The final score of the season opener was Northwestern Trojans 39, Spartanburg 7.
When is the Northwestern Trojans’ next game?
The Northwestern Trojans’ next game is scheduled for August 29 at 7 PM against Somerset.
Who is expected to lead the Wildcats this season?
Preston Stone, a transfer from SMU, is expected to lead the Wildcats this season.
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Additional Resources
- WDIO: Northwestern Football Kicks Off Season With Win Over Prescott
- Wikipedia: Northwestern Trojans
- NBC Sports: Embracing the Chaos, New Look Northwestern Eyes Bounce Back Season
- Google Search: Northwestern football 2025
- NU Sports: 2025 Football Promotions Announced
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Northwestern football
- SI: Northwestern Names Five Captains for 2025 College Football Season
- Google News: Northwestern Trojans
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