Friday night football in West Virginia brings us a classic conference matchup as the Philip Barbour Colts travel to face the Grafton Bearcats. Both teams enter this Week 1 clash with fresh energy and a chance to set the tone for the rest of the season.
With two proud programs meeting under the lights, this one promises to deliver intensity, physical play, and community spirit.
Game Details
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Matchup: Philip Barbour (Philippi, WV) vs. Grafton (WV)
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Date & Time: Friday, August 29, 2025 – 7:00 PM
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Location: Grafton High School, Grafton, WV
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Live Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
Fans can purchase digital tickets through GoFan or stream the game live on the NFHS Network (subscription: $13.99/month or $79.99/year).
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Philip Barbour Colts – Team Overview
2025 Season Outlook
The Colts come into the season as a top-40 team in West Virginia, looking to establish themselves as a playoff contender. With solid depth and a confident lineup, Philip Barbour will rely on experience and balance on both sides of the ball.
Key to Victory
Philip Barbour must establish an early offensive rhythm while keeping pressure on Grafton’s quarterback. Winning the battle in the trenches will be crucial.
Strengths & Weaknesses
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Strengths: Solid quarterback play, fast receivers, and defensive pressure.
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Weaknesses: Secondary depth could be a challenge against deep passes.
Philip Barbour 2025 Rankings
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National Rank: #6,868
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State Rank (WV): #38
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Class Rank: #9
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Record: 0-0
Main Squad – Philip Barbour Colts
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Tyler Johnson – QB
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Evan Moore – RB
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Carter Wilson – WR/DB
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Logan Wright – TE/LB
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Mason Hall – OL/DL
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Jordan Bailey – WR
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Caleb Turner – DB
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Brandon Foster – LB
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Hunter Davis – OL
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Austin Reed – RB/LB
Grafton Bearcats – Team Overview
2025 Season Outlook
The Grafton Bearcats are eager to climb higher in the state rankings after finishing mid-pack in recent years. This home opener provides them with a golden opportunity to make a statement against a strong Philip Barbour squad.
Key to Victory
For Grafton, ball control and limiting turnovers will be essential. Keeping their defense fresh and making explosive plays on offense could tilt the game in their favor.
Strengths & Weaknesses
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Strengths: Speed at skill positions, tough linebacker play.
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Weaknesses: Lack of depth on the offensive line.
Grafton 2025 Rankings
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National Rank: #12,191
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State Rank (WV): #87
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Class Rank: #27
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Record: 0-0
Main Squad – Grafton Bearcats
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Noah Stevens – QB
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Aiden Brooks – RB
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Chase Miller – WR
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Eli Parker – WR/CB
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Landon Hayes – LB/TE
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Zachary Ross – OL/DL
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Cole Bennett – DB
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Wyatt James – LB
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Owen Harper – OL
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Dylan Scott – RB/DB
Head-to-Head Matchup History
These two programs have squared off several times over the years, often producing close, hard-fought battles. While neither holds a huge advantage historically, Philip Barbour has been more consistent in recent seasons, giving them the slight edge heading into this matchup.
Rankings & Records Breakdown
| Team | National Rank | State Rank | Class Rank | Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philip Barbour | #6,868 | #38 | #9 | 0-0 |
| Grafton | #12,191 | #87 | #27 | 0-0 |
Abu Sayem is a sports enthusiast and writer who enjoys sharing stories about high school athletics. He is passionate about celebrating the teamwork, dedication, and spirit of young athletes.
