The 2025 Arkansas high school football season features a Fort Smith rivalry showdown as the Southside Mavericks host the Northside Grizzlies on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM. With both teams ranked in the state, this local battle promises to be a competitive and hard-fought season opener.
Game Details
○ Matchup: Northside (Fort Smith, AR) vs Southside (Fort Smith, AR)
○ Date & Time: Friday, August 29, 2025 – 7:00 PM
○ Location: Southside High School, Fort Smith, AR
○ Live Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
Fans can attend in person by purchasing digital tickets on GoFan or stream the action live on the NFHS Network (subscription: $13.99/month or $79.99/year).
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Northside Grizzlies
The Grizzlies begin the 2025 season ranked #2,859 nationally, #40 in Arkansas, and #11 in their class. Northside brings grit and toughness into this rivalry contest, relying on physical defense and steady offensive play to challenge Southside on the road.
○ 2025 Record: 0-0
○ National Rank: #2,859
○ State Rank: #40 (AR)
○ Class Rank: #11
○ Strengths: Physical defense, experienced roster, rivalry motivation
○ Key to Win: Limit Southside’s explosive plays and control possession
Southside Mavericks
The Mavericks enter the year ranked #1,735 nationally, #23 in Arkansas, and #6 in their class. Southside is known for its offensive versatility and home-field advantage, making them a tough opening opponent for Northside.
○ 2025 Record: 0-0
○ National Rank: #1,735
○ State Rank: #23 (AR)
○ Class Rank: #6
○ Strengths: Offensive versatility, home-field edge, strong depth
○ Key to Win: Execute offensively and capitalize on opportunities against Northside’s defense
Rankings & Records
| Team | National Rank | State Rank | Class Rank | Record | PF | PA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northside Grizzlies | 2,859 | 40 (AR) | 11 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 |
| Southside Mavericks | 1,735 | 23 (AR) | 6 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 |
Melvin Smith is a high school sports enthusiast with a passion for capturing the energy of student competitions. He enjoys sharing stories that celebrate athletes’ dedication and the community spirit of the game.