Football

2025 MHS Wildcats Football Season Preview

The Meridian High School Wildcats are set to charge into the 2025 football season under second-year head coach Shelton Gandy, looking to build on the foundation laid in his debut year. With a blend of veteran leadership and promising young talent, the Wildcats have their eyes on a return to the playoffs.

The journey begins against Ocean Springs in a rare Thursday night showdown (Aug. 28) for the Wildcats’ season opener. September brings a trio of high-energy home games against Neshoba Central (Sept. 5), Starkville (Sept. 12), and district rival Pearl for Homecoming (Oct. 10).

The road schedule will test the Wildcats early and often, with key trips to Columbus (Sept. 19), Hattiesburg (Sept. 26), and a late-season district battle at Brandon (Nov. 6). Other marquee matchups include a home clash with perennial power Oak Grove (Oct. 17) and a Senior Night showdown against Petal (Oct. 31).

With the 2025 schedule blending fierce regional rivals, district challenges, and early non-district tests, Coach Gandy’s Wildcats will have ample opportunity to prove themselves. If the team can harness last season’s growth and deliver consistent performances under the lights, the Cats could be in prime position to make noise in November.

Wildcat Nation — it’s time to pack Ray Stadium and roar all season long!