Rowan County Sports Weekend: Friday Football, Saturday Cross Country, and College Kickoffs

The fall sports season is officially underway, with Rowan County athletes competing across football fields, cross country courses, and college stadiums this weekend.

Friday Night Football – Week 1

The 2025 high school football season kicked off Friday night with plenty of action across Rowan County:

• West Rowan 39, North Rowan 20 – The Falcons opened strong on the road in Spencer, pulling away late behind a balanced offensive attack. North Rowan battled throughout, but West’s depth proved too much.

• East Rowan 20, Wheatmore 13 – In one of the night’s tightest contests, the Mustangs got a late touchdown run from Strozier, dragging defenders into the end zone in the final minute to seal the victory at home.

• South Rowan 14, Union Academy 0 – The Raiders earned a shutout win, leaning on defense to blank Union Academy in their season debut.

Other Rowan County teams, including Carson and Salisbury, were also in action as the season began, with full coverage continuing as results finalize across the region.

Cross Country

On Saturday, Carson senior Eric Gillis made a statement in his season debut, winning the Carolinas Kickoff hosted by Metrolina Christian. Gillis clocked 15:14, crossing the line 29 seconds ahead of the next runner in a strong field. His effort highlights not only individual talent but also Rowan County’s strength in distance running heading into the fall.

College Football Kickoffs

The first Saturday of college football brought excitement across the country. Notable results included:

• Iowa State 24, Kansas State 21 — In a thrilling opener played in Dublin, Iowa State edged No. 17 Kansas State behind two passing touchdowns and a rushing score from quarterback Rocco Becht.

• Nicholls State 20, Incarnate Word 6 — In a surprising FCS upset, Nicholls State defeated No. 5-ranked Incarnate Word. A defensive touchdown via a pick-six by Ty Marsh and persistent pressure held UIW to only 204 yards of total offense.

• Hawaii 23, Stanford 20 — Season opened with drama as Hawaii clinched the win on a walk-off 38-yard field goal from Kansei Matsuzawa, capping a memorable comeback in the final seconds.

Wrapping Up the Weekend

From the first Friday night lights of the season to standout performances on Saturday, Rowan County athletes have set the stage for a busy fall. With high school football now underway, cross country hitting stride, and college football adding to the excitement, the 2025 fall sports season is off and running.