Laney vs Westside | Georgia High School Football | August 15
the heart of Augusta, Georgia, an exciting and tradition-rich rivalry is about to take center stage under the Friday night lights. The Laney Wildcats and the Westside Patriots will face off on August 15, 2025, at 7:30 PM in a non-conference clash that promises passion, grit, and good old-fashioned high school football energy.
Though both teams enter the 2025 season with identical 0-0 records, this matchup holds more weight than statistics alone—it’s about pride, community, and setting the tone for the rest of the season.
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A Rivalry Rooted in Augusta
Laney and Westside are not strangers. Both schools reside in Augusta and have crossed paths in multiple seasons. Whether it’s on the gridiron, basketball court, or track, these two programs bring fierce competition and mutual respect. The stands will be packed with alumni, families, and fans—most of whom remember previous battles and look forward to the next chapter.
In Augusta, this game isn’t just the start of a football season—it’s a community event.
Team Breakdown: Laney Wildcats (25-26)
2025 National Rank: 3,573
State Rank (GA): 232
Class Rank: 26
2024 Season Record:
- Overall: 0-0
- Home: 0-0
- Away: 0-0
- Win Percentage: .000
- Points For: 0
- Points Against: 0
Laney may be entering this season with a fresh slate, but don’t underestimate the Wildcats. Known for their aggressive defense and big-play potential on offense, Laney has always been a tough matchup. Their 2024 season featured multiple close contests, and they’ve used the offseason to regroup and refine their approach.
Key Players to Watch – Laney Wildcats
- QB Malik Johnson (Senior): Dual-threat quarterback with an excellent arm and swift footwork. His ability to extend plays will be vital.
- RB Tyrone Greene (Junior): Shifty and explosive, Greene has the vision to find holes and the speed to take it to the house.
- LB Jaylen Carter (Senior): The heart of the defense, Carter’s physical presence and field awareness can disrupt any offense.
Team Breakdown: Westside Patriots (25-26)
2025 National Rank: 4,960
State Rank (GA): 291
Class Rank: 44
2024 Season Record:
- Overall: 0-0
- Home: 0-0
- Away: 0-0
- Win Percentage: .000
- Points For: 0
- Points Against: 0
The Westside Patriots are ready to make a statement. While last season may not have ended the way they hoped, there’s no denying the team’s raw talent and potential. With a new offensive coordinator in the mix and an experienced defensive unit, Westside is poised to surprise people this year.
Coach [Name Placeholder], who took over the program last season, believes this game will be a launching pad. “We’re excited to defend our home turf,” he said. “Our guys are hungry.”
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Key Players to Watch – Westside Patriots
- WR/DB Elijah Simmons (Senior): A dynamic playmaker on both sides of the ball. His hands, speed, and instinct make him a game-changer.
- DE Marcus Fields (Junior): The engine of the pass rush. Expect Fields to create havoc in the backfield.
- QB Trevon White (Sophomore): Young but talented. White has shown poise in preseason scrimmages and has a high football IQ.
Game Preview & Tactical Breakdown
Expect this game to be physical from the opening whistle. Laney’s defense will try to control the line of scrimmage and apply pressure on Westside’s young quarterback. Meanwhile, Westside will aim to get Elijah Simmons involved early and often to keep the Laney secondary honest.
Both teams are likely to test the waters early with quick throws and inside runs before opening up the playbook in the second half. This kind of chess match is where coaching decisions and sideline adjustments will play a huge role.
Special teams could also be the X-factor. A blocked punt, long return, or missed field goal might swing the game’s momentum entirely.
What’s at Stake?
- Momentum: A win in Week 1 can build early confidence and lay the groundwork for a strong season.
- Community Bragging Rights: With both schools hailing from Augusta, the pride of the community is up for grabs.
- Recruits’ Eyes: College scouts will be watching. Big-time performances could spark recruiting buzz.
- Team Identity: Coaches will be looking to see how their players respond under pressure and adversity.
Intangibles to Consider
- Home-Field Advantage: Westside plays host. The energy from the home crowd could lift the Patriots during critical moments.
- First Game Nerves: Expect some early-game jitters, especially from underclassmen. Whichever team settles down first could gain an edge.
- Weather: Augusta in mid-August can be hot and humid. Conditioning will be key, especially late in the game.
Prediction
These two teams match up evenly on paper, but execution will be the difference. Westside’s home-field advantage and emerging offensive identity give them a slight edge, but if Laney’s defense can create turnovers, they could tilt the game in their favor.
Final Score Prediction:
Laney Wildcats – 20
Westside Patriots – 24
Expect a thrilling finish, possibly decided in the final minutes.
Football in Georgia is more than just a sport—it’s a tradition, a passion, and a proving ground. As Laney and Westside gear up for what could be one of the most talked-about openers in the Augusta area, fans from both sides can rest assured they’re in for an evening of drama, excitement, and gridiron glory.
Whether you’re a die-hard supporter, a proud parent, or just someone who loves great football, don’t miss this one. Friday night at Westside High School is where it all begins.
