Hilton Head Island, SC, October 17, 2025
News Summary
As the high school football season nears its end, Hilton Head Island Seahawks and Bluffton Bobcats prepare for critical games. The Seahawks face May River in a battle for the top position in their region, while Bluffton looks to maintain their perfect record against Adams Central. Both teams showcase impressive performances and strategies, promising competitive excitement.
Hilton Head Island, SC – As the high school football season draws to a close, the region title races are heating up in the Lowcountry. This week, two key matchups will showcase the intensity of competition as the Hilton Head Island Seahawks and Bluffton Bobcats gear up for critical games.
The WTOC Game of the Week will highlight a faceoff between Hilton Head Island and May River, both teams currently tied for the top position in their region. The Seahawks enter the game with an impressive 6-1 record and will be facing their fourth consecutive ranked opponent, totaling five top-ten challenges this season.
Head coach BJ Payne of the Hilton Head Seahawks emphasized the formidable challenge posed by May River’s distinctive and physical offensive strategy. Last season, Hilton Head successfully bested May River with a score of 23-10, utilizing that game as a blueprint for their upcoming encounter.
In contrast, May River’s head coach Richard Bonneville has acknowledged his team’s previous performance, stating they were outperformed physically in last season’s matchup. This year, they aim to match Hilton Head’s intensity, promising an exciting battle on the field.
The much-anticipated game is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at May River High School.
Meanwhile, the Bluffton Bobcats are making waves with a perfect 7-0 record after a commanding 35-0 shutout victory over Heritage. Their next challenge is against the undefeated Adams Central in a crucial ACAC matchup.
Bluffton’s head coach Jeff Richards has made it clear that past achievements do not guarantee future success, urging players to stay focused on earning their victories in the current season. Despite losing some key players from last year’s squad, the Bobcats still boast 15 returning letter winners, including junior quarterback Tayte Giesige, who had a standout previous season with 19 touchdowns and only four interceptions, and running back Parker Lovell, who led the team with 1,020 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns.
The team’s success is built on its strong returning offensive players and a robust defense that held opponents to an average of 10.9 points per game last season. Bluffton aims to surpass expectations this year, striving to become the first class to win 10-plus games in three consecutive years.
Last season, Bluffton averaged 34.7 points and gained over 375 yards per game. While Coach Richards recognized the necessity of a heavy run game, he indicated that adapting to the current team’s personnel will be crucial for continued success. Additionally, Bluffton is excited about the potential contributions from younger players stepping into important roles this season as they seek ongoing improvement.
Key Matchup Highlights
- Game of the Week: Hilton Head Island Seahawks vs. May River
- Hilton Head Record: 6-1
- Previous Outcome: Seahawks beat May River 23-10 last year
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 p.m., Friday
- Bluffton Record: 7-0 after a 35-0 win over Heritage
- Next Opponent: Adams Central
FAQ
1. What is the record of Hilton Head Island Seahawks going into the game against May River?
The Hilton Head Island Seahawks carry a 6-1 record into their matchup against May River.
2. When will the game between Hilton Head Island and May River take place?
The kickoff for the Hilton Head vs. May River game is set for 7:30 p.m. on Friday at May River High School.
3. What is Bluffton Bobcats’ current record?
The Bluffton Bobcats improved to a perfect 7-0 record with a 35-0 shutout victory over Heritage.
4. Who is Bluffton’s next opponent?
Bluffton will next face undefeated Adams Central in a crucial ACAC matchup.
Matchup Summary
| Team | Record | Last Game Result | Next Opponent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hilton Head Island Seahawks | 6-1 | Win against May River (23-10 last year) | May River (Friday at 7:30 PM) |
| Bluffton Bobcats | 7-0 | Win against Heritage (35-0) | Adams Central |
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Additional Resources
- 21Alive News
- Lima Ohio
- Island Packet
- WSAV
- Bluffton Icon
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- Google Search: High School Football News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Google News: High School Football
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.


