Commerce vs Wesleyan | Georgia High School Football | August 15

Two proud Georgia football programs—Commerce High School and Wesleyan School—are set to clash in a thrilling non-conference matchup on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 7:30 PM. Hosted at Wesleyan School in Norcross, GA, this early-season contest marks the start of a new chapter for both teams aiming to build momentum and find identity in the 2025 high school football season.

Despite no prior head-to-head encounters or shared common opponent records in the past season, both teams are gearing up for what promises to be a competitive, high-intensity game. Let’s dive into a comprehensive preview of the Commerce vs. Wesleyan showdown—from team history and records to player insights and strategic expectations.

Game Overview

• Matchup: Commerce Tigers vs. Wesleyan Wolves
• Date: Friday, August 15, 2025
• Time: 7:30 PM (ET)
• Location: Wesleyan School, Norcross, GA
• Type: Non-Conference
• Broadcast: Available for live streaming on NFHS Network
• Digital Tickets: Available via GoFan

This matchup may be non-conference, but the intensity and implications are no less important. With both teams looking to make a statement early, this opener is expected to set the tone for the rest of their seasons.

Team Snapshot: Commerce Tigers

Commerce High School, based in Commerce, Georgia, has long held a reputation as a tough, physical team built on old-school football principles: run-first offense, stout defense, and disciplined play. Although their 2025 record is currently 0-0, Commerce finished the previous season with competitive performances and a gritty attitude.

Rankings (2025 Season Start):

• National: 2,070
• Georgia: 155
• Class: 14

Record Breakdown (Last Season):

• Overall: 0-0
• Home: 0-0
• Away: 0-0
• Points For (PF): 0
• Points Against (PA): 0

While statistics from this new season haven’t been recorded yet, Commerce is entering this matchup with fresh legs, an aggressive mindset, and a focus on making a playoff push.

Team Snapshot: Wesleyan Wolves

The Wesleyan Wolves, representing Norcross, GA, are another strong football program in Georgia, known for their balance of athleticism, coaching discipline, and academic excellence. Wesleyan also begins the 2025 season with a 0-0 record, but they aim to leverage home-field advantage and their dynamic offense to edge out Commerce.

Rankings (2025 Season Start):

• National: 2,540
• Georgia: 182
• Class: 16

Record Breakdown (Last Season):

• Overall: 0-0
• Home: 0-0
• Away: 0-0
• Points For (PF): 0
• Points Against (PA): 0

Wesleyan plays in one of the most competitive high school football circuits in the state, and every game serves as both a measuring stick and a playoff resume builder.

Key Matchup Elements to Watch

1. Quarterback Play

Neither team’s quarterback has seen action this season yet, but both coaching staffs will be evaluating how their signal callers command the huddle, read defenses, and minimize turnovers. Expect conservative play early on with a gradual build-up into riskier throws as confidence grows.

2. Offensive Line Control

Commerce is known for producing physically tough offensive lines that pave the way for their run-heavy schemes. If the Tigers dominate in the trenches, Wesleyan could find itself on the back foot. Conversely, Wesleyan’s offensive front must protect its quarterback and establish the run to open up its play-action game.

3. Defense and Turnovers

With two teams that haven’t faced off before, expect defenses to be the game changers. The early-season rust may lead to a few turnovers, and whichever team capitalizes on those mistakes will likely come out ahead.

What Makes This Matchup Special?

Even though Commerce and Wesleyan haven’t established a rivalry yet, the beauty of non-conference games is in the unpredictability and style contrasts. Wesleyan’s finesse-based approach and strategic flexibility contrast with Commerce’s gritty, hard-nosed playing style. This creates a chess match between the coaching staffs and provides a valuable litmus test for each team’s readiness.

Additionally, both programs are aiming to rebuild and reestablish themselves among Georgia’s elite. With updated rankings and playoff hopes on the line, every snap matters.

Players to Watch

Commerce Tigers

• RB1 (TBD): Commerce typically features a powerful lead back who gets 20+ carries per game. Keep an eye on their ability to churn out tough yards.
• LB Corps: Their linebacker group is often the heartbeat of their defense. Expect several big hits and key tackles behind the line.

Wesleyan Wolves

• QB1 (TBD): Wesleyan’s quarterback will be critical for balancing the attack. Look for accuracy and poise under pressure.
• WR Core: Known for spreading the field, Wesleyan may attempt to stretch Commerce’s defense with downfield throws and quick screens.

Historical Context & Season Goals

Both teams are coming off average performances in 2024 and want to erase the sting of missed playoff opportunities. Commerce, historically a playoff contender with state titles in its rearview mirror, has been rebuilding and developing young talent.

Wesleyan, often praised for its all-around student-athlete development, is looking to field a team that can push into late November football. The 2025 season is a clean slate for both programs, and this game offers a foundational victory for the team that executes better.

What’s at Stake?

• Momentum: A Week 1 win sets the tone and builds team morale for the season ahead.
• Rankings Boost: With both teams starting outside Georgia’s top 150, a statement win could provide a bump in class and regional rankings.
• Scouting Film: Coaches will be using this game heavily to evaluate players and tweak strategies.

Prediction

While both teams are evenly matched on paper, the edge may go to Wesleyan due to home-field advantage and their ability to strike quickly through the air. However, Commerce is known to control tempo and frustrate teams with disciplined execution.

Final Score Prediction:
Wesleyan 24 – Commerce 21

Expect a tight, physical game with big plays on defense, a few special teams fireworks, and possibly a late-game score deciding the outcome.

The Commerce vs. Wesleyan matchup isn’t just a Friday night football game—it’s an early test of resolve, preparation, and hunger. Both teams are at a crucial point in their development, and this game will likely reveal who’s ready to take that next step.

Fans attending in person or watching via the NFHS Network are in for a treat: crisp August football under the lights, two storied Georgia programs on the field, and the beginning of what could become a future rivalry.

Keep your eyes on the field this Friday night—because under the Norcross lights, history might just begin.