High school football in California is in full swing, and one of this week’s spotlight matchups is Kennedy vs Highlands, a non-conference game set for Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. The Highlands Scots will host the Kennedy Cougars in North Highlands, California, as both teams look to capture their first win of the season.
Kennedy vs Highlands Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Kennedy vs Highlands
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
For fans eager to attend, digital tickets are available now through GoFan. Expect a spirited contest as each program aims to reset its season momentum after early struggles.
Team Records and Standings
Both schools are off to slow starts, but this matchup provides a chance to build confidence before league play begins.
Kennedy Cougars (0-2 Overall)
- Home: 0-0
- Away: 0-2
- Points For (PF): 30
- Points Against (PA): 52
- Win %: .000
Nationally, Kennedy ranks 13,253rd, while sitting at No. 952 in California and No. 145 in their section.
Highlands Scots (0-1 Overall)
- Home: 0-1
- Away: 0-0
- Points For (PF): 20
- Points Against (PA): 24
- Win %: .000
Highlands holds a slightly stronger position in the rankings, currently at 12,055 nationally, No. 846 in California, and No. 129 in their section.
For updated rankings throughout the season, visit football rankings.
Offensive and Defensive Breakdown
Statistically, Highlands has put together more balance on both sides of the ball, while Kennedy continues to search for rhythm.
Kennedy Cougars
Through two games, Kennedy has averaged 15 points per game. They’ve struggled in the opening and third quarters but found modest success in the second and fourth.
Scoring by quarter:
- Q1: 0
- Q2: 6.0
- Q3: 0
- Q4: 6.0
- Final Avg.: 15.0
Highlands Scots
Highlands, in one game, managed to push late in the contest, showing the ability to rally in the final quarter.
Scoring by quarter:
- Q1: 0
- Q2: 6.0
- Q3: 0
- Q4: 14.0
- Final Avg.: 20.0
Team Stat Comparison
When comparing offensive and defensive production, Highlands appears to hold the advantage statistically:
- Rushing Yards Per Game: 84.0
- Passing Yards Per Game: 201.0
- Receiving Yards Per Game: 201.0
- Total Yards Per Game: 285.0
- Tackles Per Game: 39.0
- Sacks Per Game: 6.0
- Pancake Blocks: 11
Kennedy’s complete statistical profile is less detailed, but their defensive struggles—allowing 52 points in two games—show an area in need of improvement.
Key Players to Watch
The Kennedy vs Highlands matchup will feature individual standouts who could tilt the balance on Friday night.
Kennedy Cougars
- Tynel Moss Cole (#18): Averaging 50 rushing yards per game, he gives Kennedy a ground attack to lean on.
- Walter Lewis (#1): The centerpiece of Kennedy’s offense, averaging 201 passing yards and 229 total yards per game.
- Michael Compton (#3): A reliable target in the passing game, contributing 90 receiving yards per contest.
- Tony Showen (#16): Defensive anchor with 6 tackles per game and 3 sacks so far this season.
- Michael Aceves (#54): Leads the offensive line with 3 pancake blocks.
Highlands Scots
While individual player stats were not highlighted, their collective effort has shown potential, especially in their ability to generate offensive momentum in the second half.
Recent History & Records
Neither Kennedy nor Highlands has secured a victory yet this season. Both are eager to turn their luck around before league schedules begin.
Kennedy (2025 Season to Date):
- 0-2 overall
- 0-2 in non-league play
- 0-0 in league play
Highlands (2025 Season to Date):
- 0-1 overall
- 0-1 in non-league play
- 0-0 in league play
No direct head-to-head results exist between these two programs this season, adding intrigue to their first meeting.
Matchup Outlook
Both squads come in with a lot to prove. Kennedy has shown flashes offensively through the air but will need defensive stops to avoid another tough loss. Highlands, meanwhile, displayed strong resilience in their opening game, particularly in the fourth quarter, which could be decisive again.
For Kennedy, quarterback Walter Lewis will be the difference-maker, while Highlands will look to capitalize on their stronger statistical balance and home-field advantage.
Why This Game Matters
High school football is more than just wins and losses. For Kennedy and Highlands, this non-conference battle sets the tone for the remainder of their seasons. A victory here could shift momentum, boost confidence, and prepare them for the challenges of league competition ahead.
Fans and community members can follow along with every high school football event this season by visiting Find Your School.
Final Thoughts
The Kennedy vs Highlands matchup on September 5, 2025, is more than just a non-conference game. It’s a chance for both teams to earn their first victory and reestablish their footing early in the season. Kennedy’s passing game versus Highlands’ balanced attack sets up an intriguing contrast of styles.
Whether you’re heading to Highlands High School in person or following along online, this contest promises to deliver the kind of energy and determination that makes California high school football special.
