## Packers Cornerback Hobbs Undergoes Minor Knee Surgery

**Green Bay Faces Brief Setback as Starter Prepares for Season Opener**

With just one month until the NFL regular season kicks off, the Green Bay Packers' cornerback room has experienced a minor setback. Nate Hobbs underwent knee surgery described by sources as "minor," effectively sidelining him for approximately three weeks. 

Despite this, Hobbs is expected to be ready in time for the Packers' season opener against the defending NFC North champion Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field.  The surgery is believed to be preventative, addressing a potential issue that could have been managed throughout the season. The Packers opted for a cautious approach, prioritizing Hobbs' long-term health over immediate playing time.

Hobbs missed Green Bay's last two practices, including Family Night, where general manager Brian Gutekunst shed light on the severity of the injury. "We won’t see him tonight, he’s gonna be working through some things over the next couple of weeks," Gutekunst stated at the annual open practice.

This likely means Hobbs will sit out all preseason games. Although not a guaranteed starter, his absence could impact valuable joint practices with the Colts and Seahawks.


**Packers Bring Back Ballentine to Address Cornerback Depth**

To address the potential void left by Hobbs, Green Bay made a strategic move Monday. Corey Ballentine was re-signed for a second stint with the Packers after being released by the Colts last week. The team simultaneously released cornerback Gregory Junior in a corresponding move.

Ballentine, 29, brings valuable experience as a core special teamer and solid cornerback play. In his previous time with Green Bay, he demonstrated his capabilities, particularly in the 11 games where he played 15 or more coverage snaps between 2023 and 2024. During those appearances, he maintained an average PFF coverage grade of 61.7, just above average.


**Hobbs: A Promising Addition Despite Early Mishaps**

Hobbs signed with Green Bay on a four-year, $48 million contract in March. He has quickly made waves with his aggressive and assertive playing style during training camp.

While his intensity has drawn praise from coaches, it has also resulted in some disciplinary actions.  He was cautioned for a hard hit on Dontayvion Wicks in a non-padded practice and again for a low tackle on MarShawn Lloyd during a session where players were instructed not to go to ground. 

Despite these hiccups, Gutekunst highlighted Hobbs' versatility and physicality at Family Night. “He has all the aggressiveness and physicality we were looking for when we brought him in here,” he stated.


The Packers will now navigate the next few weeks without Hobbs' energetic presence but remain optimistic about his return for the season opener. 


## Packers Cornerback Hobbs Undergoes Minor Knee Surgery

**Green Bay Faces Brief Setback as Starter Prepares for Season Opener**

With just one month until the

Packers CB Nate Hobbs has knee surgery, hopes to return for 

Packers CB Nate Hobbs has knee surgery, hopes to return for regular season opener

##  Wilson's Impact: New QB Sparks Young Star's Growth 

**Giants Head Coach Praises Veteran's Influence on Rising Receiver**


The New York Giants enter the season with a new face at quarterback, 10-time Pro Bowler Russell Wilson. This move comes after an offseason of major changes to the team's signal caller position. As Malik Nabers embarks on his second year, he follows a rookie season marked by quarterback instability.  However, training camp has seen a clear connection blossoming between Wilson and Nabers.

Head Coach Brian Daboll lauded the impact Wilson has had on Nabers during Monday's post-camp press conference. 

“I think he’s had a very positive impact on Malik,” Daboll said. "They have a good relationship, they spend a lot of time in the meeting room, and then they spend time outside just in terms of body maintenance, how Russ takes care of his body, the things he's done to have a long career. He’s kind of grabbed hold of that, asks a lot of questions, he’s very involved."

Daboll continued, "Talking about Malik in the meetings, communicative. I know you see a lot of the plays that he makes out on the field. But the thing I'm most proud of is the growth he’s made as an individual in the meeting rooms, outside the building. And I think Russ has had a big impact on that as well. He’s one of our best players, in terms of Malik."

"And I think he's made strides from year one to year two in a lot of areas. And I'm very proud of how he's approached really the whole offseason and then into training camp. But I do think that the relationship he has with Russ has been impactful.”

**Can Wilson-Nabers Ignite Giants Offense?**


The success of this budding connection could translate to a fruitful season for both Wilson and Nabers.  The presence of Wilson under center opens up opportunities for downfield passing, benefiting not only Nabers but also veterans like Darius Slayton. The speedster Jalin Hyatt could also see increased involvement in the offense, providing another target for the veteran quarterback.

With a challenging schedule ahead and Wilson's contract expiring at the end of the season, motivation runs high for the seasoned QB to propel the Giants' offense from the start. 


Nabers was a key factor in luring Wilson to New York. Expect Wilson to prioritize connecting with his star receiver early and often throughout the season.  


##  Wilson's Impact: New QB Sparks Young Star's Growth 

**Giants Head Coach Praises Veteran's Influence on Rising Receiver**


The New York Giants enter the se

Giants&#39; Brian Daboll praises Russell Wilson for &#39;pos

Giants&#39; Brian Daboll praises Russell Wilson for &#39;positive impact&#39; on Malik Nabers

## High School Football Kicks Off: Players to Watch in the Gaylord Area

**Season Opener Set For August 28th**

GAYLORD — Summer is winding down, which means one thing: high school football season is just around the corner! With kickoff scheduled for Thursday, August 28th, teams across Michigan are gearing up for another exciting year.  All three Gaylord-area squads will be playing at home to start the season. Gaylord takes on North Branch, Johannesburg-Lewiston hosts Burton-Bendle and Gaylord St. Mary welcomes Rudyard.

This new season brings fresh faces and emerging talent. Fans will see all three teams sporting new quarterbacks, alongside playmakers looking to make their mark alongside returning starters. 


**Gaylord Blue Devils:**

* **Jaron Bensinger, Linebacker:** The name "Bensinger" is synonymous with Gaylord athletic success. Jaron follows in his older brother Ty's footsteps, who was a state champion wrestler and All-State football player. After winning the D2, 144-pound wrestling state title at Ford Field this past March, Jaron now aims to conquer the gridiron. A second-team All-Big North linebacker last season, he will likely lead the Blue Devils' defense, which allowed just 16.2 points per game in 2024 despite a 3-6 overall record.

* **Kaven Cole, Receiver/Linebacker:** Gaylord found its offensive rhythm late last season, especially in the passing game, thanks in part to sophomore Andrew Szymoniak at quarterback. Cole emerged as a key target for Szymoniak and will likely be the new QB's favorite option in 2025.  He capped off the season with a breakout performance against Escanaba, helping Gaylord come back from a fourth-quarter deficit to win 19-15 on a last-second touchdown pass from Szymoniak to Cole. He finished the game with 5 receptions for 65 yards and 2 touchdowns. Cole also earned honorable mention All-BNC at linebacker.

**Johannesburg-Lewiston Cardinals:**

* **Joey Smokevitch, Running Back/Fullback/Defensive Back:**  After years of watching his father's teams in the Northern Michigan Football Conference, junior Joey Smokevitch is poised to become a key player and leader for the Cardinals seeking success. Smokevitch returns as the team's leading rusher with 282 total yards and 175 yards in NMFC-Legacy games, earning All-NMFC Legacy Honorable Mention in 2024. He will step up to fill the void left by graduating seniors Nate Hummel and Kyler Nowak. Smokevitch is also a first-team All-NMFC Legacy defensive back and an MHSAA Advisory Council selection, bringing both talent and experience to the Cardinals.

* **Wyatt Konkle, Offensive/Defensive Line:** To run Coach Joe Smokevitch's Wing-T, run-heavy offense effectively, you need big bodies up front who are also athletic enough to move in space. Senior Wyatt Konkle provides that for JoBurg. He was JoBurg’s lone first-team All-NMFC Legacy selection on both sides of the ball in 2024, earning a spot among the first-team offensive and defensive linemen.  He will be relied upon even more as he enters his senior season, hoping to lead JoBurg back to its pre-2021 success.

**Gaylord St. Mary Snowbirds:**

* **Nathan O'Connell, Quarterback/Defensive Back:** After a few years of established upperclassmen at key positions, Gaylord St. Mary is ushering in a youth movement. Sophomore Nathan O'Connell is set to take over as the starting quarterback for his dad, Kevin O’Connell. "Chummy," as he's known around GSM, was thrust into action late last season when seniors Daniel Jacobson and Hogan McKinley went down with injuries during their 7-2 regular season. After earning first-team All-Ski Valley honors as a freshman, O'Connell looks to become one of the go-to players for the Snowbirds in 2025.

* **Logan Greenier, Charlie Cameron, David Wahl, Jackson Vernier, Offensive/Defensive Line:**  Standing out as a lineman in 8-player football can be tough. Last season, GSM’s line was among the best in the entire Ski Valley. All four of their regular offensive and defensive linemen earned either first-team or honorable mention honors, led by sophomore Logan Greenier as a first-team defender and Charlie Cameron as a first-team on the O-line. With all four returning, GSM’s new backfield should feel protected and secure.






## High School Football Kicks Off: Players to Watch in the Gaylord Area

**Season Opener Set For August 28th**

GAYLORD — Summer is winding down, which means on

Here are the Gaylord-area football players we are looking fo

Here are the Gaylord-area football players we are looking for this fall

##  Who Will Rule the Gridiron? Vote for Section V's Top Class A Football Star!

The countdown to the 2025 high school football season is on, and a new generation of stars is ready to shine in Section V.  Faber Builders presents your chance to predict who will emerge as the top player in Class A.

**A Battle for Division Dominance:**

Class A will be divided into Class A1 and Class A2. 

* **Class A1:** Brighton, Churchville-Chili, Greece Olympia/Odyssey, Hilton, Irondequoit, Spencerport, Webster Schroeder, Webster Thomas, Victor.
* **Class A2:** Brockport, Canandaigua, East/World of Inquiry, Eastridge, Gates Chili, Greece Arcadia, Greece Athena, Wilson/Early College.

**The Contenders:**

Nominees were carefully selected based on their outstanding performances as returning All-Greater Rochester football players or members of the 2024 Section V All-Stars first team.


**Cast Your Vote!**

Help decide who will claim the title of best Class A player in 2025 by voting now! The poll closes at 8 p.m. on Friday, August 8th.  You can vote multiple times for your favorite.  The winner will be announced on Monday, August 11th.

[Poll]


**Vote Now and Stay Tuned!** 


##  Who Will Rule the Gridiron? Vote for Section V's Top Class A Football Star!

The countdown to the 2025 high school football season is on, and a new generati

Vote: Who will be the best Section V football player in Clas

Vote: Who will be the best Section V football player in Class A in 2025?

##  Delaware's Top High School Football Star is Crowned! 🏈🏆

**Cast Your Vote for Preseason Player of the Year**

Over eight weeks, Delaware fans have spoken! You've chosen your favorites at every position – quarterback, running back, offensive lineman, wide receiver, defensive lineman, linebacker, defensive back, and kicker or punter.  

Now it’s time to crown Delaware's top high school football star for the 2025 season!

**Vote now in our FREE poll presented by Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists:** [Insert Poll Here]

The winner will be announced this Friday.  Meet the nominees:

[List of Nominees]


**Can’t see the poll?** Refresh your page or try opening it in a different browser. Some mobile app users may need to open this page in a browser instead of in the app to register their vote. 


##  Delaware's Top High School Football Star is Crowned! 🏈🏆

**Cast Your Vote for Preseason Player of the Year**

Over eight weeks, Delaware fans have spoken!

Free vote: Pick the preseason Player of the Year in Delaware

Free vote: Pick the preseason Player of the Year in Delaware high school football, presented by Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists

## Tottenham Set to Secure Palhinha Loan Deal

**Midfielder Seeking Premier League Return After Bayern Struggle**

Tottenham Hotspur are nearing a loan agreement with Bayern Munich for midfielder Joao Palhinha. The 30-year-old Portuguese international joined Bayern last summer in a £42.3m deal, describing it as "the happiest day of my life." However, his time in Germany has been marked by injuries and limited playing opportunities, with just 10 starts across all competitions in the past year.  

Palhinha's potential return to the Premier League comes after a stellar two-season stint with Fulham between 2022 and 2024. The midfielder proved an immediate success after his £17m transfer from Sporting Lisbon, becoming a defensive powerhouse.

**Dominant Defensive Display at Craven Cottage**

During his time at Fulham, Palhinha led the Premier League in tackles, registering a remarkable total of 300 – 109 more than any other player – while also ranking sixth for interceptions with 92.  

His aggressive style of play, however, came with caution. The 34-cap Portugal international received 27 yellow cards across the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, at least five more than any other player.




## Tottenham Set to Secure Palhinha Loan Deal

**Midfielder Seeking Premier League Return After Bayern Struggle**

Tottenham Hotspur are nearing a loan agreemen

What Palhinha would offer Tottenham

## Everton Show Improvement Despite Friendly Draw Against Manchester United

**Atlanta:** David Moyes expressed optimism following Everton's 2-2 draw against Manchester United in the final match of the Premier League Summer Series. While acknowledging the team is still short of their full potential, the manager highlighted significant progress compared to previous friendly outings.


### **"Much Better" Performance Raises Hopes**

“We were nowhere near in the first or second game as we didn't have enough players fit enough,” Moyes admitted. “But we’re just starting to get one or two back.”

He praised the team's performance against Manchester United, stating: "I thought it was better [against Manchester United], I thought we played much better."  

Despite the positive signs, Moyes stressed that Everton still needs reinforcements before the start of the Premier League season. “We’ve picked up, but not enough,” he explained.


### **Deals Imminent? Manager Remains Cautious**

“I think there will be deals next week,” Moyes confidently asserted. "I think we're getting much closer, but I've got to say that I felt that four or five weeks ago as well. But obviously we’re getting near the tickly bits and we’ve got to get some things done.”

He outlined the club's transfer strategy: “We know that we have to make several additions and more. Even for the numbers, we might even have people in the squad who we'd like to put them out on loan or do other things with them. So we’re needing generally to add to the squad and we need to get some of the main players in quickly.”


### **Roma Match Awaits at Home**

Everton will return home to prepare for their first game at the Hill Dickinson Stadium against Roma. 

“That'll be a great occasion for us all,” Moyes stated, “For us all to go down there and see what it looks like, and hopefully a good day of weather and fill the place out.”

He expressed his desire to have new signings available for the Roma match: "I would love to be able to have a couple of players which I could tell the crowd 'this is the start'.

"But if not, the big sign is that we should have Jarrad [Brainthwaite] back in training when we return on Wednesday - with a bit of luck.”   


## Everton Show Improvement Despite Friendly Draw Against Manchester United

**Atlanta:** David Moyes expressed optimism following Everton's 2-2 draw against Ma

&#39;We&#39;ve picked up but not enough&#39; - Moyes

## Hoosiers' Newest Star Stays True to His Commitment

**Freshman Forward Trent Sisley Rejects Transfer Portal Despite Coaching Change**

BLOOMINGTON —  Indiana basketball received an immediate victory on the recruiting front. Freshman Trent Sisley, ranked 80th overall in the 2025 signing class, reaffirmed his commitment to the Hoosiers just hours after coach Darian DeVries was announced as the team's new leader in March.

While the coaching change would have allowed the 4-star forward to explore other options through the transfer portal, Sisley chose to remain with Indiana, becoming the lone holdover from the Mike Woodson era.


**Dolson & DeVries Seal the Deal**

Sisley attributes his decision to a series of conversations with IU athletic director Scott Dolson and a timely chat with DeVries. "I think it's the best decision I could have made," Sisley told The Herald-Times after a recent practice.

Dolson, who had already established a rapport with Sisley during recruiting visits, played a crucial role in keeping him connected to Indiana throughout the coaching transition. 

"On my recruiting visits coming up through high school, he always came up to us and introduced himself," said Sisley. "I had a pretty good relationship with him before, so it was really good to hear from him that whole time with all the uncertainty.”


**Trusting the Process & DeVries' Vision**

Sisley revealed that Dolson assured him of positive developments at Indiana, and he trusted his word. He also described a productive phone call with DeVries, who quickly prioritized Sisley's skillset – a versatile two-way forward capable of spacing the floor – as a perfect fit for his system.


"He said he wanted me on board," Sisley shared. "I said I wanted to be on board that same phone call."  

DeVries' success at Drake and West Virginia, coupled with their immediate connection, solidified Sisley's decision to remain a Hoosier.  



###  


## Hoosiers' Newest Star Stays True to His Commitment

**Freshman Forward Trent Sisley Rejects Transfer Portal Despite Coaching Change**

BLOOMINGTON —  Indiana

Indiana basketball freshman Trent Sisley happy to be a Hoosi

Indiana basketball freshman Trent Sisley happy to be a Hoosier: ‘Best decision I could have made’

##  Clash of the Titans: District 10 Linemen Battle for Preseason Honors

The trenches are always where football battles are won and lost, and District 10 is brimming with talent this season. These behemoths pave the way for offensive juggernauts and anchor defenses against relentless attacks. Who will reign supreme? Cast your vote now in our preseason lineman of the year poll! Voting closes Thursday night.

**District 10's Top 10 Linemen:**

* **Luke Lewis, Hickory:**  Lewis, a junior, is already a force to be reckoned with, earning District 10 lineman of the year honors last season. He boasts offers from Carnegie Mellon, Cal (Pa.), and Slippery Rock.
* **Jack Adams, Cathedral Prep:** This 6'3", 280-pound all-district standout is a true powerhouse for the Ramblers.
* **Jacob Coulter, Wilmington:**  A junior and all-district selection, Coulter terrorizes opposing offenses as a defensive menace for the Greyhounds. 
* **Delathian Boanes, Grove City:**  Boanes brings his senior year experience to the field with an impressive career tally: 173 tackles, seven sacks, and four fumble recoveries. 

* **Edwin Guzman, Erie:** This junior standout has already caught the eye of Syracuse University with an offer, and many expect him to attract even more attention this fall.
* **Rowan Szuba, McDowell:**  Szuba was voted to the all-region team last season in a region known for its exceptional linemen. 
* **Landon Plyler, Meadville:** This all-region first-team selection is poised to lead a young Meadville squad this fall.

* **Carlao Lowe, Farrell:** The tight end and defensive lineman leads the charge for the prolific Farrell offense.
* **Maddox Snyder, Reynolds:**  Snyder anchors both sides of the ball for the experienced Raiders team. 
* **Logan Latimore, North East:** A true two-way threat, Latimore dominates on both defense and offense for the North East squad.

**Vote Now!**





##  Clash of the Titans: District 10 Linemen Battle for Preseason Honors

The trenches are always where football battles are won and lost, and District 10 is br

VOTE: Fans can vote for the District 10 preseason lineman of

VOTE: Fans can vote for the District 10 preseason lineman of the year

## Kickoff Approaches: 2025 MHSAA Football Schedules for the Blue Water Area

Get ready for some Friday Night Lights! The 2025 MHSAA high school football season kicks off on Thursday, August 28th.  Below is a schedule breakdown for all the teams in the Port Huron Times Herald coverage area:


**Algonac:**
* Saturday, Aug. 30 at Cardinal Mooney — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 vs. North Branch — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 12 at Armada — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 vs. Almont — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 at Imlay City — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 at Croswell-Lexington — 7:30 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 vs. Yale — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 at Richmond — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 24 vs. Madison Heights Madison — 7 p.m.

**Almont:**
* Thursday, Aug. 28 vs. Marysville — 7:30 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 vs. Imlay City — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 12 at Yale — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 at Algonac — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 vs. Croswell-Lexington — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 vs. Armada — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 at Richmond — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 at North Branch — 7 p.m.*

**Armada:**
* Friday, Aug. 29 vs. Marine City — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 vs. Croswell-Lexington — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 12 vs. Algonac — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 vs. Richmond — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 at Yale — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 at Almont — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 at North Branch — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 at Imlay City — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 24 vs. Frankenmuth — 7 p.m.

**Cardinal Mooney:**
* Saturday, Aug. 30 vs. Algonac — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 at Auburn Hills Oakland Christian — 7 p.m.
* Saturday, Sept. 13 vs. Caro — 1 p.m.
* Saturday, Sept. 20 vs. Royal Oak Shrine Catholic — 1 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 at Waterford Lakes — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 at Clarkston Everest Collegiate — 7 p.m.*
* Saturday, Oct. 11 vs. Allen Park Cabrini — 1 p.m.*
* Saturday, Oct. 18 vs. Madison Heights Bishop Foley — 1 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 24 at Southfield Bradford Academy — 7 p.m.

**Croswell-Lexington:**
* Thursday, Aug. 28 vs. Saginaw Swan Valley — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 at Armada — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 12 at Richmond — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 vs. North Branch — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 at Almont — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 vs. Algonac — 7:30 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 at Imlay City — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 vs. Yale — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 24 vs. Ogemaw Heights — 7:30 p.m.

**Imlay City:**
* Thursday, Aug. 28 vs. Flint Powers Catholic — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 at Almont — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 12 at North Branch — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 at Yale — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 vs. Algonac — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 vs. Richmond — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 vs. Croswell-Lexington — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 vs. Armada — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 23 at Burton Bentley — 7 p.m.

**Marine City:**
* Friday, Aug. 29 at Armada — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 vs. Madison Heights Madison — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 12 at St. Clair — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 at Center Line — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 26 vs. St. Clair Shores South Lake — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 at Sterling Heights — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 vs. Eastpointe — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Oct. 24 vs. Marysville — 7 p.m.


**Marysville:**
* Thursday, Aug. 28 at Almont — 7:30 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 vs. Hazel Park — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 12 at Warren Fitzgerald — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 vs. Grosse Pointe North — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 26 at Warren Lincoln — 7 p.m. *
* Friday, Oct. 3 at Sterling Heights — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 vs.  St. Clair Shores South Lake — 7 p.m. *
* Friday, Oct. 17 vs. Center Line — 7 p.m.* 
* Friday, Oct. 24 at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep — 7 p.m.

**Port Huron:** 
* Thursday, Aug. 28 vs. Warren Fitzgerald — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 at Chippewa Valley — 7 p.m. *


 **Sandusky:**
* Thursday, Aug. 28 at Saginaw Nouvel Catholic Central — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 vs. Marlette — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 12 at Millington — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 vs. Burton Bendle — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 26 vs. Cass City — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 at Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port Laker — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 at Caro — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 at Unionville-Sebewaing — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Oct. 24 vs. Reese — 7 p.m.

**St. Clair:**
* Thursday, Aug. 28 vs. Richmond — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 5 at Warren Lincoln — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Sept. 12 vs. Marine City — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 vs. Eastpointe — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 at Center Line — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 vs. St. Clair Shores South Lake — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 at Sterling Heights — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 vs. Hazel Park — 7 p.m.
* Friday, Oct. 24 at Port Huron Northern — 7 p.m.

**Yale:**
* Thursday, Aug. 28 at Swartz Creek — 7 p.m. 
* Friday, Sept. 5 at Richmond — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 12 vs. Almont — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 19 vs. Imlay City — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Sept. 26 vs. Armada — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 3 vs. North Branch — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 10 at Algonac — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 17 at Croswell-Lexington — 7 p.m.*
* Friday, Oct. 24 at Flint Powers Catholic — 7 p.m.



 **Note:**  A "*" indicates a conference game.




## Kickoff Approaches: 2025 MHSAA Football Schedules for the Blue Water Area

Get ready for some Friday Night Lights! The 2025 MHSAA high school football season

2025 Blue Water Area high school football schedules

##  Emerald Coast Gridiron Battles: Which Rivalry Reigns Supreme?

It's that time of year again – the air is crisp, leaves are turning, and high school football dominates everything. The schedules are out, trash talk is flying, and rivalries are heating up on the Emerald Coast. 

But which matchups truly deserve the title of "best rivalry"? 

From Niceville vs. Crestview to Fort Walton Beach vs. Choctaw, there's no shortage of heated competition. Vote now for your favorite showdown before August 11th at 2 p.m.!


##  Fort Walton Beach vs. Choctaw: A Tale of Two Cities

**Active Win Streak:** Choctaw has won the last four meetings, including a decisive 49-13 victory last year at Joe Etheredge Stadium.
* **Most Memorable Recent Win for Choctaw:** In 2021, former Choctaw star Frank Beasley returned to lead his alma mater, promptly ending a losing streak against FWB with a 28-6 win at Steve Riggs Stadium.  Beasley is undefeated against the Vikings since taking the helm.
* **Most Memorable Recent Win for FWB:** In 2020, playing through a shortened season due to COVID-19, the Vikings pulled off a much-needed 35-28 victory over their crosstown rivals, snapping a losing streak that started in 2013.
* **Where's the Balance?** This historically even rivalry was once defined by parity, with the teams locked at 21-21 after the 2012 season. However, Choctaw's dominance has shifted the balance, now leading the all-time series 32-22. The addition of Power Four prospect Deshawn Simmons to Choctaw this offseason further underscores this trend.  But with the hiring of Josh Pulliam, a former Choctaw standout and winning coach, FWB hopes to rekindle competitiveness in this iconic matchup.


## Niceville vs. Crestview: Bad Blood on the Battlefield

**Active Win Streak:** Niceville has won seven of the last eight games, including a 35-14 victory last year at Jack Foster Stadium.
* **Most Memorable Recent Win for Crestview:** In 2022, Crestview delivered a stunning upset with a 26-21 victory over Niceville in the region quarterfinals at Eagle Stadium. This win marked the end of a five-game losing streak to the Eagles and was head coach Thomas Grant's first statement victory.
* **Most Memorable Recent Win for Niceville:** The Eagles' playoff run in 2020 saw them crush Crestview 56-20 in the regional playoffs, culminating with a near-state championship appearance after a field goal away from playing for the 7A title.

This rivalry transcends typical competition.  Crestview's call for Niceville to vacate wins in 2021 following a transfer controversy ignited tensions further. This heated atmosphere continues to fuel the fire in this back-and-forth battle.  


## More Matchups: Mosley, South Walton vs. Walton, and Choctaw vs. Niceville

The article also details exciting rivalries between Niceville and Mosley, with an up-and-coming competitive edge; South Walton and Walton, experiencing a shift in power after years of back-and-forth wins; and the often one-sided clash between Choctaw and Niceville, which is looking to rebalance this season.





##  Emerald Coast Gridiron Battles: Which Rivalry Reigns Supreme?

It's that time of year again – the air is crisp, leaves are turning, and high school football

Who has the best high school football rivalry on the Emerald

Who has the best high school football rivalry on the Emerald Coast? Vote now

## Fashanu's Phantom Presence Fuels Penn State Offensive Line

**Big Ten Media Day Underscores Lasting Impact of Former All-American**

James Franklin made a point to mention Olu Fashanu at Big Ten Media Day, even though the former All-American is now with the New York Jets after being drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. This speaks volumes about the profound impact Fashanu left on Penn State's program.

"Olu's professionalism, preparation habits, and calm but confident leadership left a blueprint that the current offensive line room is still following," said Franklin.  

Fashanu's influence transcended on-field dominance. According to Franklin, he set a high standard in meetings, film sessions, and practice, instilling a culture of accountability. "Young guys watched how Olu handled every single rep like it mattered," Franklin explained. Now those same younger linemen are veterans themselves, carrying forward that same mindset.

This shift is transforming the offensive line from a point of concern to a source of strength for Penn State. "That kind of leadership doesn’t just disappear when someone leaves for the league," stated Franklin.  

Experience abounds on this year's line, with returning players who saw significant action last season. They continue to reference Fashanu in film sessions, discussing how he would have approached specific plays and holding themselves to his high standard. 

Franklin also emphasized the tight-knit culture within the offensive line room. While they might not always be in the headlines, these players take pride in their "dirty work." This mentality was contagious when Fashanu was around, and it remains a defining characteristic of the unit.  

Fashanu's story itself is proving to be a powerful recruiting tool. Younger linemen are drawn to Penn State because of his journey: a player who stayed committed to the program, developed over time, didn't chase fame, and ultimately achieved first-round draft status. This speaks volumes about the foundation being built by the coaching staff in the trenches. 




## Fashanu's Phantom Presence Fuels Penn State Offensive Line

**Big Ten Media Day Underscores Lasting Impact of Former All-American**

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