The Gainesville, Florida, high school football community is buzzing with anticipation as two local rivals, the Buchholz Bobcats and the Eastside Rams, are set to face off on Friday, September 5, 2025.¹ This highly anticipated non-conference game is a battle for bragging rights and local supremacy. The Buchholz Bobcats, a perennial state power, are looking to rebound from a tough loss to a highly-ranked opponent and re-establish their dominance. The Bobcats are a team with a history of success, having reached four consecutive state semifinal appearances and are known for their strong passing game and physical defense.² The Eastside Rams, who are ranked as an “also receiving votes” team, are riding a two-game winning streak and are eager to prove that they are a legitimate contender.³ The Rams are coming off a thrilling comeback victory against Rickards and will be playing with a high level of confidence. This game promises to be a physical, fast-paced affair, with both teams leaving everything on the field in a classic Gainesville rivalry.

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

Who will win this matchup?

This game is a fascinating clash between two teams with different recent trajectories. The Buchholz Bobcats, despite a 1-1 record, have faced a tough schedule to start the season. They secured a close win against Vanguard and lost a hard-fought game to a highly-ranked Vero Beach team, demonstrating their ability to compete with top-tier opponents. Buchholz’s offense, led by their sophomore quarterback, is capable of putting up big numbers.⁴ The Eastside Rams, with a perfect 2-0 record, have been impressive in their first two games, including a thrilling comeback victory. While Eastside is playing with momentum and a strong defense, their previous matchups with Buchholz have not gone in their favor. In their last two meetings, Buchholz has won by scores of 42-7 and 35-7.⁵ Given Buchholz’s recent experience against elite competition, their home-field advantage, and their historical dominance in this rivalry, the Bobcats have a significant edge. Expect a competitive game, but Buchholz should be able to secure the victory.

Two team records and history

The rivalry between the Buchholz Bobcats and the Eastside Rams is one of the most significant in Gainesville high school football. These two teams have a long history of playing each other, with many of their games being highly competitive and consequential. Buchholz has dominated the recent matchups, having won the last 11 games in the series.⁶ In their last two meetings, the Bobcats won by scores of 42-7 and 35-7.⁷ Both programs have a rich history of success. The Buchholz Bobcats are a perennial powerhouse, having won a state championship in 1990 and making it to the state semifinals for the last four seasons. The Eastside Rams also have a proud history, having made it to the playoffs for the last three seasons and showing significant improvement under their current coach. This game isn’t just about the final score, but also about the history and bragging rights that come with being the top team in Gainesville.

Team Recent Results list, score

The Buchholz Bobcats and the Eastside Rams have had different starts to their 2025 seasons. The Bobcats are coming off a tough loss, while the Rams are riding a two-game winning streak.

Buchholz Bobcats Recent Results

Eastside Rams Recent Results

Buchholz Bobcats team upcoming games schedule

Following their game against the Eastside Rams, the Buchholz Bobcats will face a demanding schedule with several key regional matchups on the horizon.

Eastside Rams team upcoming games schedule

The Eastside Rams will have a challenging schedule after their contest with the Buchholz Bobcats, with a number of key in-state matchups as they look to maintain their winning streak.