Get ready for one of the most anticipated matchups in Florida high school football as two of the state’s biggest powers, the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders and the Columbus Explorers, renew their rivalry. This Friday, September 5, 2025, promises to be a spectacular showcase of talent and grit as these two storied programs clash on the gridiron. St. Thomas Aquinas, the reigning national powerhouse from Fort Lauderdale, is consistently ranked among the top teams in the country and is known for its incredible depth and tradition of winning championships. The Raiders are a factory for Division I and NFL talent, with a disciplined and physical style of play that has made them a dynasty. The Columbus Explorers, from Miami, are no strangers to success, having established their own legacy of dominance in the state.¹ They will bring a highly motivated and athletic team to the field, ready to challenge the Raiders’ supremacy. This game is more than a regular-season contest; it’s a statement game for both programs, and the winner will gain a significant boost in the state and national rankings.

Who Will Win This Matchup?

This highly anticipated game between St. Thomas Aquinas and Columbus is a classic battle between two of Florida’s top programs.² St. Thomas Aquinas comes into the game with a 1-1 record, having faced a tough opening schedule that included a narrow loss to a national powerhouse.³ However, they bounced back with a dominant 72-6 victory in their last outing, showing their offensive firepower and ability to bounce back from adversity.⁴ Columbus, also with a 1-1 record, has faced its own challenges, including a tough loss to Our Lady of Good Counsel.⁵ While the Explorers are a formidable team with a history of success, St. Thomas Aquinas holds the historical edge in this rivalry. The Raiders’ recent performance, a lopsided victory, suggests they have found their rhythm and are prepared to play at an elite level. While Columbus will be motivated to prove themselves, St. Thomas Aquinas’s talent and recent momentum make them the favorites to win this contest and continue their dominance over the Explorers.

Two Team Records, History

St. Thomas Aquinas and Columbus are two of the most prestigious high school football programs in the United States, each with a history of developing top-tier talent and a long list of championships. St. Thomas Aquinas, located in Fort Lauderdale, has won more state titles than any other high school in Florida and is a perennial top-five team in national rankings. The Raiders’ program is known for its structured, disciplined approach and its ability to consistently produce NFL players. Columbus High School in Miami has a rich football history of its own. The Explorers have won multiple state championships and are a consistent force in the highest classification of Florida high school football.⁶ The rivalry between these two schools is a must-see event, as it often features high-stakes games with a significant impact on state rankings and playoff seeding.

Team Recent Results List, Score

Both St. Thomas Aquinas and Columbus have faced challenging early-season schedules. St. Thomas Aquinas, currently 1-1, is coming off a massive win after a tough season-opening loss. Columbus, also 1-1, has a win and a close loss to a highly-ranked opponent.

Recent Game Results

St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders Team Upcoming Games Schedule

After their showdown with the Columbus Explorers, the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders will continue their 2025 season with a mix of district and non-district opponents. The Raiders’ upcoming schedule is designed to prepare them for a deep playoff run and another chance at a state and national title.

Columbus Explorers Team Upcoming Games Schedule

Following their game against St. Thomas Aquinas, the Columbus Explorers will continue their challenging 2025 schedule with a mix of district and non-district matchups. The Explorers’ schedule is built to test their strength and prepare them for the postseason.