This Saturday, September 13, 2025, a premier interstate high school football matchup is set to take place as the Muskegon Big Reds from Michigan travel to Ohio to face the Garfield Heights Bulldogs.1 This is a highly anticipated non-conference game that will have a major impact on both teams’ seasons and their respective state rankings. Garfield Heights, a perennial Ohio powerhouse, is coming into the game with a perfect 3-0 record, having already secured impressive wins against tough opponents.2 The Bulldogs are looking to continue their dominant season and make a statement against their Michigan rival. Meanwhile, Muskegon, a formidable program in its own right, is also a highly respected team, but they are looking to get their season on track after a difficult 0-2 start.3 The outcome of this game will be a significant indicator of each team’s potential for a deep playoff run and will have major implications for state and regional rankings. This showdown is a true clash of styles and a test of wills between two of the top programs in their states.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: High School Football
Who: Muskegon vs Garfield Heights
When: Saturday, Sep. 13, 2025
Local time: 1 PM
Location: Michigan
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Who Will Win This Matchup?
Based on recent performance and overall team strength, Garfield Heights is the favorite to win this matchup. The Bulldogs have been on a tear, boasting a perfect 3-0 record with impressive wins over Lutheran West, Erie (PA), and Detroit Denby (MI).4 Their offense has been explosive, showcasing their ability to move the ball and find the end zone against strong competition. Garfield Heights is currently ranked as a top team in Ohio’s Division II, a testament to their strength of schedule and performance.
Muskegon, with an 0-2 record, has had a difficult start to the season with two close losses to strong opponents in Grandville and Rockford.5 For Muskegon 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. While the Big Reds have a strong program, Garfield Heights’ superior record and momentum make them the more likely winner in this contest. The Bulldogs are expected to dominate the game and improve to 4-0 on the season.
Two Team Records, History, and Recent Results
Team History
Muskegon High School: The Big Reds, from Muskegon, Michigan, have a long and storied football history. They are a consistent powerhouse in Michigan high school football, with a history of making deep playoff runs and winning numerous league and regional championships. The program is known for its discipline and physical play and has produced numerous college and professional-level players. The rivalry between Muskegon and Garfield Heights is a unique interstate showdown that brings together two of the best programs in the region.
Garfield Heights High School: The Bulldogs, from Garfield Heights, Ohio, also 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 from across the country. The Bulldogs are coming off a strong 2024 season and are looking to make a statement in 2025.
Team Recent Results
The two teams have had very different starts to the 2025 season. The Garfield Heights Bulldogs have been perfect, with their offense firing on all cylinders. The Muskegon Big Reds have had a difficult start with two close losses to begin their season. The upcoming game is a critical test for both programs as they look to build on their records and prepare for their respective conference schedules.
Muskegon Recent Results
The Big Reds have had a difficult start to the season with a 0-2 record.6
| Date | Opponent | Result | Score |
| Aug 28, 2025 | @ Grandville | L | 40-44 |
| Sep 5, 2025 | vs. Rockford | L | 26-30 |
Garfield Heights Recent Results
The Bulldogs are off to a perfect 3-0 start to the season with three dominant wins.7
| Date | Opponent | Result | Score |
| Aug 22, 2025 | vs. Lutheran West | W | 55-8 |
| Aug 30, 2025 | vs. Erie (PA) | W | 14-12 |
| Sep 6, 2025 | @ Detroit Denby (MI) | W | 32-8 |
Muskegon Team Upcoming Games Schedule
After their game against Garfield Heights, the Muskegon Big Reds will continue their challenging schedule with a series of crucial league matchups. The Big Reds will need to play their best football to compete in their tough region.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
| Sep 19, 2025 | vs. Byron Center | Home |
| Sep 26, 2025 | @ Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern | Away |
| Oct 3, 2025 | @ Muskegon Mona Shores | Away |
| Oct 10, 2025 | vs. Grand Rapids Union | Home |
| Oct 17, 2025 | @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer | Away |
| Oct 25, 2025 | vs. Archbishop Moeller (OH) | Home |
Garfield Heights Team Upcoming Games Schedule
Following their matchup with Muskegon, the Garfield Heights Bulldogs will continue their demanding schedule with a series of crucial league games. The Bulldogs will be tested as they enter their conference schedule, which will test their state championship aspirations.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
| Sep 19, 2025 | @ North | Away |
| Sep 26, 2025 | @ Brush | Away |
| Oct 3, 2025 | vs. Bedford | Home |
| Oct 9, 2025 | vs. Warrensville Heights | Home |
| Oct 17, 2025 | @ Maple Heights | Away |
| Oct 23, 2025 | @ Shaw | Away |
