This Friday, September 12, 2025, a thrilling high school football game is set to take place as the East Dragons travel to face the Archbishop Hoban Knights.¹ This is a crucial non-conference matchup that will have a major impact on the state rankings. Archbishop Hoban, a perennial powerhouse from Akron, is coming into the game with a 2-1 record, having already secured impressive wins against tough opponents.² The Knights are looking to continue their dominant season and make a statement against a strong rival. East, a formidable program in its own right, is also a highly respected team with a 2-1 record. This is a crucial game for both teams as they prepare for the heart of their respective league schedules. The outcome will be a significant indicator of each team’s potential for a deep playoff run and will have major implications for state rankings.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: High School Football

Who: East vs Archbishop Hoban

When: Friday, Sep. 12, 2025

Local time: 7 PM

Location: Ohio

Watch Here: Start Your Free trial today

Supporters have the option to buy digital tickets via GoFan or watch the game live on the NFHS Network
(subscription: $13.99/month or $79.99/year)

Who will win this matchup?

Based on recent performance and overall team strength, Archbishop Hoban is the overwhelming favorite to win this matchup. The Knights have been on a roll, boasting a 2-1 record with impressive wins over Harvest Prep and a close win against Martin Luther King Jr. High School. Archbishop Hoban has shown their ability to win in tough games against top-tier opponents and is currently ranked as a top team in Ohio.³

East, on the other hand, has had a strong start to the season with a 2-1 record.⁴ While they have proven they can win, they have not faced a team with the same level of talent, depth, and national recognition as Archbishop Hoban. For East to have any chance at an upset, they will need a near-perfect performance from their defense and a strong running game to control the clock and limit turnovers. However, Archbishop Hoban’s superior talent, momentum, and experience playing against elite competition make them the overwhelming favorite in this contest. All signs point to a convincing win for the Knights.

Two Team Records, History, and Recent Results

Team History

East High School: The Dragons, from Akron, have a long and respected football history. They are a consistent winner in their league and have a history of making deep playoff runs. The program is known for its physical style of play and its ability to compete with top-tier opponents.

Archbishop Hoban High School: The Knights, from Akron, have a long and storied football history. They are a consistent powerhouse in Ohio high school football, with a history of making deep playoff runs and winning multiple state championships.⁵ The program is known for its speed and athleticism and has produced numerous college and professional-level players.⁶ The Knights have won state titles in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2020.⁷

Team Recent Results

East Recent Results

The Dragons have had a strong start to the season with a 2-1 record.⁸

Archbishop Hoban Recent Results

The Knights have had a strong start to the season with a 2-1 record.

East Team Upcoming Games Schedule

After their game against Archbishop Hoban, the East Dragons will continue their challenging schedule with a series of crucial league matchups.

Archbishop Hoban Team Upcoming Games Schedule

Following their matchup with East, the Archbishop Hoban Knights will continue their demanding schedule with a series of crucial league and non-league games.