Local high school football playoff races heat up as the final stretch of the 2025 season begins

The playoff picture is heating up! From Choctawβs dominant run to Miltonβs shocking comeback season, every district in the Mid Bay News coverage area has something on the line heading into Week 8.
HS Football: Niceville Welcomes South Sumter – Other Local Squads Prepare for Week 1.

The Niceville Eagles are set to open their football season this Friday against the strong South Sumter Raiders, a team that made it to the third round of the playoffs last season. Coach Grant Thompson is eager to see how his team, led by key players like Conor Matthews and Eddie Love, Jr., will perform against such a tough opponent. Additionally, fans can look forward to other local matchups, including South Walton vs. Gulf Breeze and Crestview vs. Milton.