Get ready for an electrifying non-district showdown in Florida high school football as two of the state’s most prominent programs, the Cocoa Tigers and the Vero Beach Indians, are set to face off on Friday, September 5, 2025.¹ This highly anticipated matchup pits a perennial powerhouse against an undefeated team with something to prove. The Cocoa Tigers, a traditional state contender and winner of three consecutive state championships, are coming off a tough loss to Mainland and are looking to get back on track. They have many new faces and are still trying to find their rhythm. Meanwhile, the Vero Beach Indians are riding a wave of momentum with a perfect 2-0 record and are eager to make a major statement on the state level by taking down one of Florida’s football giants. This contest is not just about a win or a loss; it’s about two well-coached teams testing their mettle against one another in a game that will have significant implications for their respective seasons.

Here’s what you need to know:
What: Florida High School Football
Game: Cocoa Tigers vs Vero Beach Indians
Date/time: Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 — 7 p.m. EDT
Watch: Cocoa vs Vero Beach Live (Free Trial)!

Who will win this matchup?

This game is a fascinating study in contrasting trajectories. The Vero Beach Indians are entering the game with a perfect 2-0 record and a significant victory over a tough Buchholz team.² They have been dominant in their first two games, showing a strong offensive and defensive presence. Vero Beach will have the home-field advantage and a passionate crowd to fuel their momentum. The Cocoa Tigers, however, are a different story. While they are a state powerhouse, they are 1-1 to start the season and are coming off a hard-fought loss. The Tigers are still finding their way with many new players on both sides of the ball. This is the kind of game where a championship program like Cocoa’s is expected to bounce back, but Vero Beach is playing with a high level of confidence. Despite Cocoa’s history and talent, Vero Beach’s undefeated record and home-field advantage give them a slight edge. Expect a tight, competitive game, with the Vero Beach Indians pulling out a narrow victory.

Two Team Records and History

The rivalry between the Cocoa Tigers and the Vero Beach Indians is a classic interstate rivalry that has been marked by close games. The last time they faced each other, in the 2021 season opener, Cocoa won a thriller 42-41.³ This marked the beginning of a remarkable run for the Tigers, who have since reached four consecutive state championships, winning the last three.⁴ Cocoa has a storied history, having won numerous state championships and consistently being ranked among the top high school football teams in the country.⁵ The Vero Beach Indians also have a proud football tradition, with a history of being a top-tier program in their own right, and a number of successful seasons. This game is a chance for Vero Beach to prove that they can compete with a program of Cocoa’s caliber and for Cocoa to get back to its dominant ways and show why they are state champions.

Team Recent Results

The Cocoa Tigers and the Vero Beach Indians have had contrasting starts to their 2025 seasons. The Tigers are coming off a loss, while the Indians are riding a two-game winning streak.

Cocoa Tigers Recent Results

Vero Beach Indians Recent Results

Cocoa Tigers Upcoming Games Schedule

After their game against the Vero Beach Indians, the Cocoa Tigers will continue their 2025 campaign with a challenging schedule, with several key in-state matchups on the horizon.

Vero Beach Indians Upcoming Games Schedule

The Vero Beach Indians will face a demanding schedule after their contest with the Cocoa Tigers, with a number of key regional and in-state matchups as they look to maintain their winning streak.