Florida High School Football: How to watch The First Academy vs. Venice

One of the top high school football games in the Sunshine State takes place over on Florida’s South Suncoast region once again when The First Academy Royals (2-2) travel into Powell Davis Stadium to face off against the 4-time state champion Venice Indians (2-1). Which club comes away with the crucial win nearing the midway point of the season?

Royals to Watch

The First Academy started off the season rocky with losses to Milton (Ga.) and Phenix City Central (Ala.), but have since then put things together. The Royals have notched consecutive victories over Treasure Coast and Eau Gallie heading into tonight’s matchup of top Sunshine State programs.

S Devin Jackson: Jackson is ranked No. 17 in Florida and the No. 12 safety overall via the Rivals Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all three of the major recruiting networks. The safety has tallied 15 tackles and picked off two passes this season so far.

ATH Brian Dillard: The athlete is a Swiss Army knife when it comes to the offensive side of the ball. Whether Dillard is lining up at quarterback or wide receiver, the fleet-footed athlete can hurt opposing defenses in a multitude of ways. Dillard has compiled 626 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns for the Royals this fall.

WR Brian Williams: The Alabama commit is ranked No. 93 in the state and came to the Royals after playing at Lake Mary last season. This fall, Williams leads the team with 10 catches for 267 yards and three touchdowns.

DB Danny Odem: Odem joins Jackson in what is a loaded secondary group for the Royals. Per the Rivals Industry Rankings, the Nebraska pledge is ranked No. 22 in Florida and No. 20 among all cornerbacks.

Indians to Watch

The Indians are coming off their second victory of the season, defeating regional foe Port Charlotte in a 29-22 decision last week. Venice, Florida’s defending Class 7A state champions, look to make it three in a row against The First Academy tonight at Powell Davis Stadium.

EDGE Asharri Charles: The Miami commit has been a menace for opposing offensive tackles this season, tallying 38 tackles, 12 for loss and five sacks.

RB Dorien Jones: Jones has gotten off to a solid start for the Indians as the tailback has rushed for 292 yards on 41 carries and scored three touchdowns.

WR Tyree Mannings: Mannings showed last night when thrown the ball deep, he can get behind defenses as he scored on a 92-yard touchdown pass in the win over Port Charlotte.

QB Darryon Jones: Jones had an impressive debut for the Indians behind center as the Howard commit threw for 123 yards and a touchdown. Also ran in another one on the ground and should see plenty of time along with Sean Long as well.

How to Watch The First Academy Royals vs. Venice Indians Football Game

Date: Today, September 19, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Powell Davis Stadium, Venice, Fla.
Livestream: YouTube

How to Follow Florida High School Football

For Florida high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Sunshine State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the gridiron excitement across the state of Florida.