The high school football world’s spotlight is firmly fixed on Sarasota, Florida, as the Cardinal Mooney Cougars are set to host the Rockledge Raiders on Friday, September 5, 2025.¹ This highly-anticipated non-district game is scheduled for a 7:00 p.m.² EDT kickoff at Cardinal Mooney High School. This isn’t just a regular season game; it’s a battle between two programs looking to get back on track after tough starts to the season. The Cardinal Mooney Cougars, a perennial powerhouse from the Sarasota area, are looking to rebound from a tough loss to a highly-ranked out-of-state opponent. The Rockledge Raiders are in a similar position, having suffered two narrow defeats to start their season. The winner of this contest will gain a much-needed boost in confidence and momentum for the challenging schedules that lie ahead. Fans can expect a hard-hitting, competitive game with both teams leaving everything on the field.

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Who will win this matchup?

This game is a fascinating study in contrasting starts to the season. The Cardinal Mooney Cougars, with a 1-1 record, are coming off a hard-fought 24-21 loss to a formidable Cherry Creek team.³ Despite the loss, the Cougars showed their ability to compete with top-tier opponents. They are a team built on a foundation of a strong running game and a physical defense. The Rockledge Raiders, on the other hand, are entering the game with an 0-2 record, having lost two close games.⁴ Their most recent loss was a narrow 23-14 defeat to Eau Gallie.⁵ While Rockledge has struggled to find a win, they have shown that they are a competitive team that can keep games close. The Raiders will have their work cut out for them on the road against a determined Cardinal Mooney squad. Given the Cougars’ home-field advantage, their overall program strength, and their recent performance against a top-ranked team, Cardinal Mooney has a clear edge in this matchup. Expect a competitive game, but the Cougars should be able to secure the victory.

Two Team Records and History

The history between the Cardinal Mooney Cougars and the Rockledge Raiders is one of a competitive, hard-fought rivalry. While there is no extensive historical data on this specific matchup, both programs have a long and proud football tradition. Cardinal Mooney has a rich history of success, having won numerous state championships and consistently being one of the top programs in the state of Florida.⁶ The Cougars were the Class 2A state semifinalist in 2024, demonstrating their ability to compete for a championship.⁷ Rockledge also has a storied football program, with a history of deep playoff runs and two state championships. This game is a chance for both programs to showcase their current strength and for one to establish dominance over the other. The winner of this game will carry significant momentum into the rest of their season.

Team Recent Results

Both the Cardinal Mooney Cougars and the Rockledge Raiders have had tough starts to their 2025 seasons, with close games and challenging opponents.

Cardinal Mooney Cougars Recent Results

Rockledge Raiders Recent Results

Cardinal Mooney Cougars Team Upcoming Games Schedule

After their game against the Rockledge Raiders, the Cardinal Mooney Cougars will continue their 2025 campaign with a challenging schedule, with several key in-state matchups on the horizon as they prepare for a deep playoff run.

Rockledge Raiders Team Upcoming Games Schedule

The Rockledge Raiders will face a demanding schedule after their contest with the Cardinal Mooney Cougars, with a number of key regional and in-state matchups as they look to get their first win of the season and turn things around.