LOUISVILLE, KY – Under the bright Thursday night lights of Jeffersontown High School, a compelling non-conference battle is set to unfold. The winless Doss Dragons (0-2) march into hostile territory to face the .500 Jeffersontown Chargers (1-1) in a Week 3 matchup that carries significant weight for both programs. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 PM on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

What: Kentucky High School Football
Who: Doss vs Jeffersontown
When: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m. ET
Where: Jeffersontown High School
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

This early-season contest presents a classic tale of two teams heading in opposite directions. The Chargers, fresh off a decisive victory, look to build momentum and solidify a winning record. Meanwhile, the Dragons are hungry, desperate to extinguish the slow start that has plagued them and finally punch their first mark into the win column.

For a complete look at this and all other Kentucky High School Football action, be sure to follow our coverage at HS Football Insider.

Game Details & Ticket Information

Fans eager to catch this cross-town rivalry can purchase digital tickets exclusively on GoFan. The move to digital ticketing ensures a streamlined entry process and enhances security for what promises to be an electric atmosphere at Jeffersontown High School.

The Chargers enjoy the distinct advantage of hosting this clash. For Doss, the road has been unkind, and they now face the challenge of snapping their skid in a difficult environment. This game is more than just non-conference bragging rights; it is a critical juncture in each team’s young season.

Team Breakdown: Doss Dragons (0-2)

The Dragons enter this contest searching for answers. Through two games, the statistics paint a stark picture of their early struggles. The offense has sputtered, managing only a single touchdown and a field goal for a total of 6 points. Conversely, their defense has faced a barrage, surrendering 76 points to opposing offenses.

Their national ranking of 12,007 and state ranking of 187 reflect the tough opening slate. The Dragons have yet to play a home game, suffering both losses on the road. While their record is cause for concern, it also means this team is battle-tested. They have faced adversity head-on, and that experience could forge a tougher, more resilient squad ready to break out.

The key for Head Coach will be to find a spark on offense. Establishing a consistent running game and protecting the football will be paramount. Defensively, the Dragons must find a way to get off the field on third down and create a much-needed turnover to swing momentum in their favor. A win against a solid Jeffersontown team would be a massive confidence booster and could completely reset the trajectory of their season.

Team Breakdown: Jeffersontown Chargers (1-1)

The Jeffersontown Chargers have shown flashes of both promise and vulnerability, a hallmark of many teams in the early going. Sitting at an even 1-1, their season is a blank canvas. Their offense has demonstrated a potent ability to score, putting up 48 total points. However, a leaky defense that has allowed 57 points indicates a team that thrives in shootouts.

Their national ranking of 11,349 and state ranking of 173 place them just ahead of their Thursday night opponents. Crucially, their lone victory was a commanding 36-14 win at home against Waggener—a common opponent that provides a key data point for this matchup.

The Chargers have proven they can defend their home turf. The energy from the home crowd, combined with the offensive firepower they possess, makes them a formidable opponent. For Head Coach, the game plan will likely center on exploiting Doss’s defensive struggles. If their offense can find an early rhythm and put points on the board quickly, they could force the Dragons into a one-dimensional game plan, playing right into the Chargers’ hands.

Key Matchups and X-Factors

1. Jeffersontown’s Offense vs. Doss’s Defense: This is the most glaring mismatch on paper. The Chargers, averaging 24 points per game, will look to attack a Dragons defense that has conceded an average of 38. Can Doss’s defensive front generate pressure? Can their secondary contain the Chargers’ receivers? The answer to these questions will likely decide the game.

2. The Turnover Battle: In a game where one team is favored to score, turnovers are the great equalizer. Doss must play a clean, mistake-free game to have a chance. Forcing a fumble or grabbing a key interception could provide the short-field opportunities their offense desperately needs. Jeffersontown will aim to protect the ball and capitalize on any forced errors by their defense.

3. Quarterback Play: The performance of each team’s signal-caller will be under the microscope. The Doss QB needs to manage the game effectively, make smart decisions, and connect on a few big plays to keep the defense honest. The Jeffersontown QB will be tasked with distributing the ball and executing the game plan to maximize their scoring opportunities.

4. Special Teams: Often overlooked, the third phase of the game could be a critical factor. A blocked punt, a long kick return, or a missed extra point can swing momentum in an instant. Which team will make the game-changing special teams play?

The Common Opponent Lens: A Telling Tale

While it’s still early, the common opponent of Waggener provides a fascinating, though not definitive, comparison. Jeffersontown handled Waggener convincingly with a 22-point victory at home. Doss has yet to play them this season.

However, both teams have faced Southern. Doss fell to Southern 40-6 in their season opener on August 22. Jeffersontown is scheduled to play Southern much later in the season, on October 30. This head-to-head result against a mutual foe, albeit from a small sample size, gives Jeffersontown a psychological edge and a tangible benchmark of superiority.

What a Win Means

For Jeffersontown: A victory pushes the Chargers to a confident 2-1 record. It validates their Week 2 win and proves they can string together consecutive strong performances. Building a winning streak before diving deeper into their schedule would provide immense momentum and solidify their identity as an offensive powerhouse.

For Doss: A win is everything. It would be a season-defining moment, a catalyst that could ignite their campaign. Breaking the losing streak, especially against a neighborhood rival on the road, would do wonders for team morale and belief. It would show that their early struggles were merely a product of a tough schedule and that they are a far better team than their record indicates.

Final Predictions and How to Follow

This matchup sets up as a classic “offense vs. defense” struggle, but the roles are reversed from the usual trope. Here, it is Jeffersontown’s high-powered offense against a Doss defense searching for its identity.

The Chargers, playing at home with more confidence and a more productive offense, appear to be the favorites. Their ability to score in bunches will be a constant threat. However, one must never discount the heart of a desperate team. Doss will play with passion and nothing to lose.

The most likely outcome is for Jeffersontown’s offense to prove too much, but expect Doss to fight for all four quarters and keep it competitive early.

Prediction: Jeffersontown 31, Doss 13

Can the Dragons pull off the upset? Or will the Chargers charge ahead to a winning record?

You can be a part of the action. HS Football Insider is looking for live reporters for both schools! If you’re attending the game, sign up to provide live updates and become the voice of your team for the community.

For the final score, in-depth stats, and coverage of every snap, keep your browser locked on HS Football Insider’s Kentucky page for all your Kentucky high school football news, scores, and analysis.