A major early-season test awaits the Columbus Explorers as they host St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, FL) in a non-conference matchup tonight at 7 p.m. The Raiders enter the contest carrying a national top-10 ranking, while Columbus looks to rebound from a tough opening loss.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Florida High School Football
Who: St. Thomas Aquinas vs Columbus
When: Friday, Sept. 9, 2025
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here Now
St. Thomas Aquinas, ranked No. 10 nationally and No. 3 in Florida, brings a 1-1 record into the game. The Raiders have already demonstrated their scoring ability, putting up 95 points across two contests while allowing just 32. Their offensive averages are among the strongest in the state, highlighted by 238 total yards per game and a balanced attack between the run and pass.
Quarterback Mason Mallory has been the centerpiece of the Raiders’ offense. He averages 81.5 passing yards and 44.5 rushing yards per contest, giving him 126 total yards per game. His connection with receiver Julius Jones has also been effective, with Jones averaging 65 receiving yards. On the ground, Mallory leads the charge, while Virgil Lemons provides scoring punch, averaging six points per game.
Defensively, the Raiders rely on linebacker Phillip Goodrich Jr., who averages seven tackles per game and has recorded half a sack so far. As a unit, St. Thomas Aquinas posts more than 60 tackles per game and applies steady pressure up front. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage has been a key factor in their early success.
Columbus, on the other hand, is still searching for its rhythm after dropping its opener, 14-7. The Explorers enter tonight’s matchup ranked No. 280 nationally and No. 26 in Florida. While the team has only one game on record, the offensive numbers remain incomplete, with rushing, passing, and receiving yardage not yet available. What is clear is that scoring efficiency must improve, as Columbus has averaged just seven points while being held scoreless in three of four quarters played.
On the defensive side, Columbus held its opponent to just 14 points in that opener, showing promise despite the lack of reported individual leaders. With no listed standouts yet, the Explorers will likely lean on team defense to contain a high-powered Raiders squad.
Statistically, the matchup tilts heavily in favor of St. Thomas Aquinas. The Raiders average nearly 48 points per game, while Columbus sits at just seven. Aquinas has been tested both at home and on the road, splitting their first two games, while Columbus has yet to play at home this season.
For the Explorers, tonight represents more than just a chance to even their record—it’s an opportunity to prove they can compete against one of Florida’s most decorated programs. To stay close, they will need to find consistency on offense and limit turnovers. On the other side, St. Thomas Aquinas will aim to establish control early, leaning on their balanced attack and disciplined defense.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. in Miami, where Columbus will try to defend home turf against one of the toughest opponents on their schedule.
