Unity Reed vs Freedom | Virginia High School Football | August 15

The 2025 Virginia high school football season kicks off with a compelling non-conference matchup as the Freedom Eagles (Woodbridge, VA) host the Unity Reed Lions (Manassas, VA) on Friday, August 15, at 6 PM. Fans can catch all the action live via the NFHS Network or be part of the atmosphere in person at Freedom High School.

While this contest is officially a preseason scrimmage, the competitive fire between these two programs means fans should expect intensity, playmaking, and an early glimpse into what both teams might bring to the table in the regular season.

Game Details

• Matchup: Unity Reed Lions @ Freedom Eagles
• Date & Time: Friday, August 15, 2025 • 6 PM
• Location: Freedom High School, Woodbridge, VA
• Broadcast: FuboTv (Live Stream)
• Type: Non-conference scrimmage
• Tickets: Available online and at the gate

Team Profiles

Unity Reed Lions (Manassas, VA)

• National Rank: 6,769
• Virginia State Rank: 160
• Division Rank: 38
• Record (2025): 0-0 (Season opener)

Unity Reed enters the 2025 season aiming to build on their grit and resilience from recent years. While last season saw mixed results, the Lions showed flashes of potential—especially with their young offensive core and improving defense. This scrimmage gives Unity Reed the perfect opportunity to test their schemes against a top-tier Freedom squad.

Strengths:

• Emerging offensive talent at quarterback and wide receiver positions.
• Defensive players with solid tackling fundamentals, especially in the linebacker corps.
• Ability to adjust mid-game, keeping opponents guessing.

Areas to Watch:

• Consistency in offensive execution.
• Maintaining stamina in the second half against fast-paced offenses.

Freedom Eagles (Woodbridge, VA)

• National Rank: 1,386
• Virginia State Rank: 19
• Division Rank: 6
• Record (2025): 0-0 (Season opener)

Freedom High has become one of Virginia’s most talked-about football programs in recent years. Known for high-scoring offenses and dominant defensive fronts, the Eagles are expected to be a playoff contender yet again in 2025.

Playing at home in front of their fans, Freedom will use this game to evaluate new starters and fine-tune plays before the regular season begins.

Strengths:

• Deep roster with explosive playmakers on offense.
• Fast, aggressive defense that forces turnovers.
• Strong coaching staff with proven success in playoff runs.

Areas to Watch:

• Chemistry between new starters on the offensive line.
• Discipline in avoiding early-season penalties.

Head-to-Head and Shared Opponents

Although Unity Reed and Freedom do not face each other often, they share multiple common opponents in 2025, which will give fans a measuring stick for later in the season.

Unity Reed Common Opponents:

• Aug. 28 – vs. Potomac Senior
• Sept. 12 – vs. Charles J. Colgan
• Sept. 19 – vs. Hylton
• Oct. 30 – vs. Osbourn Park

Freedom Common Opponents:

• Aug. 28 – vs. Osbourn Park
• Oct. 10 – vs. Charles J. Colgan
• Oct. 24 – vs. Potomac Senior
• Oct. 30 – vs. Hylton

Key Matchups to Watch

Unity Reed Passing Game vs. Freedom Secondary

Unity Reed’s aerial attack will be put to the test against one of the most athletic defensive backfields in Virginia. If the Lions’ quarterback can find early rhythm, they may be able to keep Freedom’s defense on its heels.

Freedom Offensive Tempo vs. Unity Reed Front Seven

Freedom thrives on quick strikes and no-huddle drives. Unity Reed’s defensive line must win the battle up front to disrupt timing and prevent chunk plays.

Special Teams Impact

Early-season scrimmages often reveal special teams strengths and weaknesses. A big return or a blocked kick could swing momentum.

Keys to Victory

Unity Reed Lions

1. Start strong to prevent Freedom from building early momentum.
2. Limit turnovers and maximize each offensive possession.
3. Contain Freedom’s explosive plays and force long drives.

Freedom Eagles

1. Establish offensive rhythm quickly.
2. Apply pressure on Unity Reed’s quarterback to disrupt passing lanes.
3. Use depth to wear down the Lions in the second half.

X-Factors

• Unity Reed WR1: A versatile receiver who can make plays both deep and in the slot.
• Freedom RB: A powerful back who thrives in breaking tackles and turning short gains into big runs.
• Unity Reed Linebacker: A defensive leader capable of calling audibles and adjusting formations on the fly.

Game Atmosphere

Expect Freedom High’s stadium to be buzzing with excitement, as the Eagles’ community always turns out in force. Unity Reed’s traveling fan base will bring their own energy, making for a lively pre-season football environment. Even though it’s a scrimmage, both teams know the importance of building confidence and momentum.

Prediction

Given Freedom’s depth and recent track record, they enter the game as favorites. However, Unity Reed has the talent to challenge if they execute cleanly and take advantage of any early-season mistakes from the Eagles.

Projected Score: Freedom 28 – Unity Reed 14

The Unity Reed vs. Freedom matchup may be labeled as a scrimmage, but don’t expect either team to take it lightly. For coaches, it’s a critical evaluation period. For players, it’s a chance to earn starting spots. For fans, it’s the first taste of high school football in Virginia for the 2025 season.

Mark your calendars for Friday, August 15 at 6 PM, and tune in live on the NFHS Network or join the crowd in Woodbridge for what promises to be an entertaining night under the lights.