Big Bend High Schools Gear Up for Thrilling Football Showdown!

Madison, Florida, USA - The excitement is building in the Big Bend area as high school football gears up for another thrilling season. On July 24, 2025, the 16th annual 4quartersonline High School Football Media Day lit up Hangar 38, featuring 14 teams, each with their unique aspirations and narratives for the upcoming year. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as schools like Gadsden County, Madison County, and others gathered to showcase their hopes and plans.

Among the participating schools were Rickards, Godby, Chiles, Florida High, Maclay, North Florida Christian, Wakulla, and Leon, all eager to stake their claim this fall. The spotlight fell on Gadsden County and Madison County, both of which are aiming for another shot at the state title after thrilling past seasons.

Rising Stars and Coach Aspirations

Excitement is pulsing through Gadsden County, especially with fresh talent and notable player transfers. Quarterback Landon Dougherty made waves by transferring from Gadsden County to Godby, where he had previously lit up the field as a three-star prospect, recording an impressive 1,837 passing yards and 23 touchdowns last season. Meanwhile, quarterback Lazarus Chambers moves in the opposite direction, joining Gadsden County from Godby, where he shone brightly with over 2,600 passing yards and a total of 32 touchdowns in the last season.

Coach Russell Ellington, who has a history of guiding the Jaguars through tight spots, is focused on ensuring the team learns from their previous mistakes. Gadsden County made headlines last season, reaching the FHSAA 2A state title game, although they fell short against the Cocoa Tigers, losing 38-27 after a valiant effort. The Jaguars had led the game at one point but struggled to maintain that momentum, even after turning in a remarkable performance averaging over 38 points per game across the season.

A Glimpse into Madison County

Across the field, Madison County’s head coach Price Harris is steering his team towards another championship run this coming season. The Cowboys recently cemented their status with a thrilling seventh state title, finding their identity midseason last year. However, they face challenges too, having lost key players like offensive playmaker Jason McDaniel. With a younger squad stepping up, the season ahead is set to test their mettle.

Ellington’s words resonate as a rallying cry for Gadsden County, who are bent on claiming that elusive state title after tasting close defeat. “We have unfinished business,” he remarked, highlighting the team’s ambition amid skepticism surrounding their capabilities. Gadsden’s exhilarating run last season, culminating in their first state championship appearance since Greensboro High’s win in 1975, leaves fans eager to see if they can carry that momentum into this year’s challenges.

As they prepare for the 2025 football season and strive toward their respective goals, the stories unfolding in Gadsden County and Madison County set the stage for what promises to be a remarkable high school football journey. Fans and players alike are ready to embrace every tackle, touchdown, and triumph on the road to glory.

For more about the recent moves and stories from Media Day, check out Tallahassee.com, and catch up on Gadsden’s notable 2024 season performance detailed in WCTV.