JON HOLDER'S TOP 10 AND SUPER 7 PICKS FOR EVERY CLASS OVER 40 SCHEDULESTEAM ++ WEEK BY SCHEDULESWEEK ALIGNMENTSREGION NEW 2022 FOR AREA SCHOOLS PREVIEWS OF 40 HIGH FOOTBALLSCHOOL TEAMS
High School Football Alabama The Magazine is a production of Fairfax Garden Media CONTENTS Creative Director Karine Parker Editors and Writers Tommy Wood, Gerhard Mathangani, and Jon Holder Meet the Team 4 Jon's Top Ten and Super 7 Picks 6 Cover Story - After the Game........................... 8 2022 Regional Alignments for Area Team ....... 12 2022 Team Schedules ....................................... 14 Team Reviews & Previews ................................ 24 Week by Week Schedules ................................. 78 www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 3
After the Game and the High School Football Alabama family! Can you hear us? If so, it’s because of this lady right here. Ashley Gober is the sound operator at After the Game. She is reliable and thorough—making sure every single show goes off without a hitch in the sound department. Ashley, we are so glad you’re a part of HSFA’s After the Game and look forward to another great season!
This is Charlie Hinkle— graphics builder and camera operator (we call them “shooters” but didn’t want social media to misunderstand so...) If you’re looking for someone who LOVES high school football, Charlie is your guy. And not only is he good at what he does, his positive attitude is second to none. We are thrilled to have Charlie working with us on our After the Game show!
4 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Nathan Gober is involved in the partWehandy(somethingandproduction,ofhappen!words...heofoperating,engineering,andproductionAftertheGame.InotherhelpsmakeitNathanhastonsexperienceinvideohe’screative,he’saproblemsolverthatcomesinforliveproductions!)arethankfulNathanisaof
MEETTEAMTHE
Watch every Football Friday night at 9:45 PM on Facebook Live or YouTube
This is the Director of After the Game, Jordan Smith. Jordan is not only an exceptionally talented director, but he’s passionate about high school football— the perfect combination for High School Football Alabama’s After the Game show! Jordan also builds graphics for the show and comes up with new and fun ideas that contribute to making After the Game a success. We are so glad he’s part of our HSFA family! To be honest, we sort of think Amado Ortiz uses stunt doubles. He is a busy guy! At After the Game, Amado gathers scores and builds graphics to make sure you get accurate information from every school we cover. That’s a pretty intense job, but every single week, Amado is steady and unshakable. We are very thankful he’s part of our After the Game family here at High School Football Alabama!
There would be no HSFA After The Game without Katie Edwards. As our Marketing, Sales and Social Media Director, Katie was a cornerstone of the foundation of HSFA from the very beginning. There is no one who compares to Katie in marketing and advertising local high school sports in East Alabama. As the wife of a coach, she has acquired a unique understanding of the culture of prep football in our area. She will also be pushing out all the great content you will see throughout the coming season on all of our social media platforms. With us since day one, we are blessed to have Katie in the High School Football Alabama After the Game family!
Don Wilson is a big part of High School Football Alabama’s After the Game family. Don is a field reporter and Jon’s “right hand man” on Friday nights. But, our favorite part about Don being at After the Game is his positive attitude. You can probably tell from the picture, Don has an enthusiasm that’s contagious and we are so glad he’s here! Meet Baylee Morris! Baylee grew up on a football field and it shows. She can shoot and edit game film with the best in the business. She knows high school football, local coaches and schools and we are thrilled to have her as part of our team for After the Game!
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 5
Pleasant AlexandriaRussellvilleEufaulaMoodyGreenvilleRamsayFaithC.F.UMS-WrightGrovePrepVigorAcademy Hillcrest-TuscaloosaHueytownSt.PinsonPikeGardendaleSpanishMountainSaralandClay-ChalkvilleBrookFortRoadValleyPaul’sEpiscopal1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 CLASS 5A CLASS 6A SUPER Pleasant7 Grove vs UMS-Wright Prep SUPER Clay-Chalkville7 vs Saraland Sweet ValleyLeroySpringMaplesvillePickensElbaDecaturBrantleyWadleyWaterHeritageCountyGardenHead Fyffe B.B. LuverneHighlandReeltownSoutheasternLanettAlicevilleClarkeClevelandComerCountyHome 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 CLASS 1A CLASS 2A SUPER 7 Sweet Water vs Wadley SUPER 7 Fyffe vs B.B. Comer Jon’s TOP TEN 6 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Central-PhenixThompson BobOpelikaOakEnterpriseJamesHooverAuburnHewitt-TrussvilleCityClemensMountainJones10421356789 Hillcrest-EvergreenFayetteTrinityGordoSaksMarsMobileMadisonSt.PiedmontJamesAcademyChristianHillBiblePresbyterianCounty CherokeeAndalusia County AmericanOneontaHandley Christian MontgomeryAnniston Catholic Montgomery Academy JacksonJacksonville 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 CLASS 3A CLASS 4A SUPER Piedmont7 vs St. James SUPER Andalusia7 vs Cherokee County and Super 7 Picks CLASS 7A SUPER Thompson7 vs Central-Phenix City www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 7
8 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
AFTER
Coach Michael Shortt (center) and Gerhard Mathangani (right) join Jon Holder this season for Football Friday Nights on After the Game
Jon, Gerhard, and Coach Shortt Begin a New Era of Football Friday Nights
If you have any age to you at all, you have seen so many rapid changes to our world, culture, and way of life that it is breathtaking at times. The swift and monumental changes in technology and consumer habits affect every area of our lives now. The world of high school football and how we get information about our favorite teams, players, and coaches is not immune to the changes, and it is happening at lightning speed. The creation, rise, and growth of High School Football Alabama is in many ways a direct result of the fast-changing media landscape. THE GAME
The new streamingvideoand social media tech now allowed fans to watch from anywhere in the world, not just in front of a television set.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 9
2020 brought not only a pandemic and all the ways that the virus altered lives around the world, but that fall also brought an end to a 16-year run of the local Friday night television show that Holder had been a part of since its inception. “That first Friday night of high school football I went to the Anniston-Wellborn game on The Hill and stayed to the end. That was a first. When the game was over, I got in my car, drove home, listened to a scoreboard show up in North Alabama, and went to bed. For the first time since 1991 I was not on the air doing a show and giving scores, interviewing coaches, and spitting out information. I had never missed a Friday night of doing that-up to almost 400 consecutive Friday nights. I was lost to be honest.”
Holder was down but not out! He had always had in the back of his mind striking out and doing his own show. He went to work almost immediately to explore putting a Friday night show together back on local radio. Holder says, “Within a month everything was in place to bring back a local Friday night show to East Alabama on WHMA The Big 95. It was ironic because I had worked for a few years previously in the 1990s for the old WHMA, so it was like a homecoming of sorts. I am very grateful to Tex Carter and the folks at the Big 95 for working with me to get High School Football Alabama off the ground.”
By the next season the changes in live video streaming, Skype and Zoom, and social media penetration were totally changing the entire media picture and swiftly! Thanks to a fantastic partnership with Anniston’s Parker Memorial Baptist Church and their full video studio, HSFA was able to simulcast the 2021 show on the radio AND provide a video show just like the one fans had been accustomed to for years.
HSFA’s Jon Holder is beginning his 32nd year of hosting Friday night “scoreboard shows” after the games here in East Alabama. He has seen and been a part of all of the changes. He started out on AM radio at small, low powered stations, moved to large FM stations that reached out hundreds of miles, and then moved into the arena of local and statewide cable television. Holder has adapted to the changes in media, but the next form of media is maybe the most daunting (and exciting) yet. The Internet Age and the advent of smart phones, social media, and streaming video have opened up a whole new world of media consumption that has shaken the traditional ways of following prep football to the foundation. High School Football Alabama is at the forefront of this new wave of technology and viewer/listener habits.
The new video streaming and social media tech now allowed fans to watch from anywhere in the world, not just in front of a television set. Two years of overwhelming success and growth now brings High School Football Alabama to the 2022 season. This year the show is taking the leap into a live stream video only Friday night program, but also bringing back a local high school football preview magazine that will be digital only-available to anybody anywhere in the world for free! Each year, HSFA has made massive additions and shifts to the show and the way we do things. “ “
What would be better than being with the best in the business? That’s Jon. He’s the best in high school football and in broadcast.
This year is no exception. To better reflect where things are headed, the name of the show is morphing into HSFA After The Game. More than just scores, fans now want more analysis, game breakdowns, and interaction and we are going to give it them. We will have upgraded equipment, triple the number of highlights, and some great new co-hosts coming on board with Jon Holder!
In addition to decades of on the field experience, Coach Shortt brings to High School Football “ “
After over a decade of working together in television, local sportscaster Gerhard Mathangani reunites with Jon once again on Friday nights. Gerhard is a graduate of Jacksonville State University and has spent 14 years in various roles of sports broadcasting including sports reporter, anchor, and sports director. He boasts over a decade of experience as a producer and talent for a high school football show, and he has more than ten years in the booth as an analyst and play-by-play broadcaster for high school and college football. Gerhard shared his thoughts on joining After the Game: “I am beyond excited to join the HSFA roster. Being able to team up is exciting. Jon is a treasured friend and I’ve watched as you all built what is and will continue to be a very respected and popular product.” HSFA is also excited to welcome veteran prep football coach Michael Shortt to the team. Coach Shortt is a 1980 Graduate of Cleburne County High School and a 1986 JSU grad. In 1998, Coach Shortt became Cleburne Co. High School’s Head Varsity Football Coach and Athletic Director. Coach Shortt’s coaching career yielded over two dozen athletes who went on to play football in college, and he has another 20+ who are now high school coaches themselves. In 1995, Shortt was named the AHSAA Assistant Coach of the year, 2004 Alabama/Mississippi All Star Coach, 2005 AHSAA All Star Coach, 2010 was recognized for 100 Varsity Football Wins, and in 2015 was the AHSAA 4A Head Football Coach of the year. Coach Shortt has been no stranger to broadcast, providing color commentary for Oxford Football on 97.9 WVOK FM, and appeared countless times as a guest across multiple media outlets.
10 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Longtime area broadcaster Gerhard Mathangani joins the HSFA After the Game crew in 2022!
Alabama After the Game a network of hundreds of coaches and a unique perspective to local high school football analysis. When we asked him why he’s excited to join us, Shortt said, “Over all my years of high school coaching, we always strived to be the best we could be. That’s Jon. He’s the best in high school football and in Gerhardbroadcast.”and Coach Shortt join Holder who is beginning his 32nd year of hosting high school football Friday night shows. In fact, Jon has broadcast 403 Friday night scoreboard shows on radio/television. Additionally, he has been the Managing Editor and Writer of local high school football magazines for 19 years. Jon has served as the studio host of the AHSAA Super 7 football and State Finals basketball broadcasts on the AHSAA TV Network, was the first host of the AHSAA Weekly television program, was the host of the first ever AHSAA football playoff bracket reveal shows and reclassification reveal shows, and spent many years as a game commentator on the AHSAA Radio Network. Many things have changed through the years, including this new way to spend Football Friday Nights after the games. One thing that will not change is our commitment to bring you all the scores, highlights, interviews, and features as we shine the spotlight on our area schools, communities, young people, and coaches. Join us every Friday night beginning August 19th at 9:45 on Facebook and YouTube @high school football Alabama or at highschoolfootballalabama.com. There is a new era of high school football coverage and HSFA is the new way to spend your Football Friday nights After The Game! ►
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 11
Class 1A, Region 6 Class 3A, Region 4 Class 5A, Region 4 Class 1A, Region 7 Class 3A, Region 6 Class 5A, Region 6 Class 2A, Region 4 Class 4A, Region 4 Class 6A, Region 6 Class 2A, Region 6 Class 4A, Region 6 Class 6A, Region 8 REGION ALIGNMENTS FOR AREA TEAMS2022 12 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com • Donoho • Ragland • Spring Garden • Talladega County Central • Victory Christian • Wadley • Winterboro • Beulah • Childersburg • Dadeville • Randolph County • Pleasant Valley • Saks • Walter Wellborn • Weaver • Beauregard • Central-Clay County • Elmore County • Sylacauga • Tallassee • Valley • Appalachian • Cedar Bluff • Coosa Christian • Decatur Heritage • Gaylesville • Valley Head • Woodville • Geraldine • Glencoe • Hokes Bluff • Ohatchee • Piedmont • Plainview • Sylvania • Westbrook Christian • Alexandria • Leeds • Lincoln • Moody • St. Clair County • Southside • Springville • B.B. Comer • Central-Coosa • Fayetteville • Isabella • Ranburne • Thorsby • Vincent • Woodland • Anniston • Cleburne County • Handley • Jacksonville • Munford • Talladega • White Plains • Center Point • Clay-Chalkville • Huffman • Oxford • Pell City • Pinson Valley • Shades Valley • Cleveland • Gaston • Holly Pond • Locust Fork • Pleasant Valley • Southeastern • West End • Ashville • Cherokee County • Etowah • Fultondale • Good Hope • Hanceville • Oneonta • Buckhorn • Fort Payne • Gadsden City • Hazel Green • R.E. Lee-Huntsville • Mae Jemison
2022 schedulesteam BROUGHT TO YOU BY
8/26 Jacksonville Home 9/02 Moody Away* 9/09 Lincoln Away* 9/16 Springville Home* 9/23 Central-Clay County Away 9/30 St. Clair County Away* 10/7 Leeds Home* 10/14 Southside Home* 10/21 Talladega Away 8/19 Walter Wellborn Away 8/26 Villa Rica, GA Home 9/02 Munford Away* 9/09 Jacksonville Home* 9/16 White Plains Away* 9/22 Piedmont Away 9/30 Handley Home* 10/07 Open 10/14 Talladega Away* 10/21 Cleburne County Home* 8/19 Winterboro Home 9/25 Sand Rock Home 9/02 Woodville Away* 9/09 Gaylesville Home* 9/16 Decatur Heritage Home* 9/23 Spring Garden Home 9/30 Valley Head Away* 10/07 Coosa Christian Home* 10/14 Open 10/21 Appalachian Away* 11/28 Donoho Away 8/19 Model, GA Away 9/26 Piedmont Home 9/02 Good Hope Home* 9/09 Oneonta Away* 9/16 Hanceville Away* 9/23 Munford Home 9/30 Open 10/07 Fultondale Away* 10/14 Etowah Home* 10/21 Ashville Home* 10/28 Fort Payne Away 8/18 St. Clair County Home 8/26 Lincoln Home 9/02 Etowah Away* 9/09 Hanceville Home* 9/16 Open 9/23 Hayden Away 9/30 Fultondale Home* 10/07 Good Hope Home* 10/14 Oneonta Away* 10/21 Cherokee County Away* 10/28 Munford Away 8/26 Benjamin Russell Home 9/02 Tallassee Away* 9/09 Elmore County Home* 9/16 Handley Away 9/23 Alexandria Home 9/30 Valley Away* 10/07 Sylacauga Away* 10/14 Beauregard Home* 10/21 Russell County Away 10/28 Wetumpka Home ► ALEXANDRIA ► ANNISTON ► CEDAR BLUFF ► CHEROKEE COUNTY► ASHVILLE ► CENTRAL-CLAY COUNTY *Region Games www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 15
8/19 Munford Home 8/26 B.B. Comer Away 9/02 Randolph County Away* 9/09 Weaver Home* 9/16 Saks Away* 9/23 Vincent Home 9/30 Walter Wellborn Home 10/07 Beulah Away* 10/14 Dadeville Home* 10/21 Open 10/28 Winterboro Home 8/18 Geraldine Home 8/26 Spring Garden Home 9/02 Gaylesville Home* 9/09 Decatur Heritage Away* 9/16 Valley Head Home* 9/23 Gatlinburg-Pittman, TN Away 9/30 Open 10/07 Cedar Bluff Away* 10/14 Appalachian Home* 10/21 Woodville Away* 10/28 Victory Christian Home 8/19 Mt. Zion, GA Away 8/26 Northside Home 9/02 Talladega Home* 9/09 Moody Away 9/16 Munford Away* 9/23 Open 9/30 Jacksonville Home* 10/07 White Plains Away* 10/14 Handley Home* 10/21 Anniston Away* 10/28 Walter Wellborn Home 8/18 Springville Home 8/26 Fort Payne Away 9/02 Ashville Home* 9/09 Fultondale Away* 9/16 Good Hope Home* 9/23 Open 9/30 Oneonta Away* 10/07 Hanceville Home* 10/14 Cherokee County Away* 10/21 Cullman Home 10/28 Southside Away 8/18 Dadeville Away 8/26 Childersburg Home 9/02 Woodland Away* 9/09 Ranburne Home* 9/16 Vincent Away* 9/23 Saks Away 9/30 Isabella Home* 10/07 Thorsby Away* 10/14 Central-Coosa Home* 10/21 Fayetteville Away* 8/19 Weaver Away 8/26 Pleasant Valley Away 9/02 Ragland Home* 9/09 Wadley Away* 9/16 Victory Christian Home* 9/23 Open 9/30 Winterboro Away* 10/07 Talladega County Central Home* 10/14 Spring Garden Away* 10/21 Open 10/28 Cedar Bluff Home ► CHILDERSBURG ► COOSA CHRISTIAN ► CLEBURNE COUNTY ► ETOWAH► B.B. COMER ► DONOHO *Region Games 2022 team schedules 16 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
8/26 Verbena Away 9/02 Ranburne Home* 9/09 Vincent Away* 9/16 Isabella Away* 9/23 Horseshoe Bend Home 9/29 Thorsby Home* 10/07 Central-Coosa Away* 10/14 Woodland Away* 10/21 B.B. Comer Home* 10/28 Holy Spirit Catholic Away 8/19 West End Home 8/26 Open 9/02 Coosa Christian Away* 9/09 Cedar Bluff Away* 9/16 Appalachian Away* 9/23 Victory Christian Away 9/30 Woodville Home* 10/07 Open 10/14 Decatur Heritage Home* 10/21 Valley Head Home* 10/28 Talladega County Central Away 8/19 Carrollton, GA Home 8/26 Hewitt-Trussville Away 9/02 Buckhorn Home* 9/09 Fort Payne Away* 9/16 Hartselle Home 9/23 Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa Home 9/30 Hazel Green Away* 10/07 Mae Jemison Away* 10/14 R.E. Lee-Huntsville Home* 10/21 Calera Away 8/25 Southside Home 9/02 Glencoe Away* 9/09 Geraldine Home* 9/16 Westbrook Christian Away* 9/23 White Plains Home 9/30 Plainview Home* 10/07 Ohatchee Away* 10/14 Sylvania Away* 10/21 Piedmont Home* 10/28 Sardis Away 8/19 Asbury Home 8/26 Appalachian Away 9/02 Southeastern Home* 9/09 Open 9/16 West End Away* 9/23 Collinsville Home 9/30 Holly Pond Home* 10/07 Cleveland Away* 10/14 Locust Fork Away* 10/21 Pleasant Valley Home* 10/28 Brindlee Mountain Away 8/26 Weaver Away 9/02 Hokes Bluff Home* 9/09 Westbrook Christian Home* 9/16 Plainview Away* 9/23 Holly Pond Home 9/30 Sylvania Away* 10/07 Piedmont Home* 10/14 Ohatchee Home* 10/21 Geraldine Away* 10/28 West End Away ► FAYETTEVILLE ► GAYLESVILLE ► GADSDEN CITY ► HOKES BLUFF► GASTON ► GLENCOE *Region Games BROUGHT TO YOU BY www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 17
8/19 Boaz Home 8/26 Alexandria Away 9/02 Handley Home* 9/09 Anniston Away* 9/16 Talladega Home* 9/23 Ohatchee Home 9/30 Cleburne County Away* 10/07 Munford Home* 10/14 Open 10/21 White Plains Away* 10/28 Oxford Away 8/19 Childersburg Away 8/26 Open 9/02 Anniston Home* 9/09 Talladega Away* 9/16 Cleburne County Home* 9/23 Cherokee County Away 9/29 Lincoln Home 10/07 Jacksonville Away* 10/14 White Plains Home* 10/21 Handley Away* 10/28 Ashville Home 8/19 Success Unlimited Away 8/26 New Life Home 9/02 Cornerstone Away 9/09 Tabernacle Home 9/16 Tuscaloosa Christian Away 9/23 East Central Christian Home 9/30 Open 10/07 Russell Christian, MS Home 10/14 Victory, MS Away 8/19 McAdory Home 8/26 Huntsville Away 9/02 Shades Valley Home* 9/09 Huffman Away* 9/16 Pinson Valley Home* 9/23 Hartselle Home 9/30 Pell City Away* 10/07 Open 10/14 Clay-Chalkville Away* 10/21 Center Point Away* 10/28 Jacksonville Home 8/19 Talladega Home 8/26 Ashville Away 9/02 Southside Away* 9/09 Alexandria Home* 9/16 Moody Home* 9/23 Open 9/29 Munford Away 10/07 Springville Away* 10/14 St. Clair County Home* 10/21 Leeds Away* 10/28 Beauregard Home 8/19 Saks Away 8/26 Walter Wellborn Home 9/02 Westbrook Christian Away* 9/09 Sylvania Away* 9/16 Piedmont Home* 9/23 Jacksonville Away 9/30 Geraldine Away* 10/07 Hokes Bluff Home* 10/14 Glencoe Away* 10/21 Plainview Home* ► JACKSONVILLE ► MUNFORD ► JACKSONVILLE CHRISTIAN ► OXFORD► LINCOLN ► OHATCHEE *Region Games 2022 team schedules BROUGHT TO YOU BY 18 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
1941Locations2022in Piedmont, Oxford, Jacksonville, Centre, Southside, Gadsden, Alexandria, Auburn and Opelika
8/19 Moody Home 8/26 Leeds Away 9/02 Clay-Chalkville Away* 9/09 Center Point Away* 9/16 Open 9/23 Eufaula Home 9/30 Oxford Home* 10/07 Shades Valley Away* 10/14 Huffman Away* 10/21 Pinson Valley Home* 10/28 Springville Home 8/19 Vincent Away 8/26 Southeastern Away 9/02 Donoho Away* 9/09 Randolph County Away 9/16 Wadley Home* 9/23 Pleasant Valley Home 9/30 Victory Christian Away* 10/07 Winterboro Home* 10/14 Talladega County Central Away* 10/21 Spring Garden Home* 8/26 Cherokee County Away 9/02 Sylvania Home* 9/09 Plainview Home* 9/16 Ohatchee Away* 9/22 Anniston Home 9/30 Westbrook Christian Away* 10/07 Glencoe Away* 10/14 Geraldine Home* 10/21 Hokes Bluff Away* 10/28 Sylacauga Away 8/26 Woodland Away 9/02 Childersburg Home* 9/09 Ragland Home 9/16 Weaver Away* 9/23 Wadley Away 9/30 Saks Home* 10/07 Walter Wellborn Away* 10/14 Beulah Home* 10/21 Dadeville Away* 10/28 Ranburne Home 8/26 Donoho Home 9/02 West End Away* 9/09 Holly Pond Home* 9/16 Cleveland Away* 9/23 Ragland Away 9/30 Locust Fork Home* 10/07 Spring Garden Home 10/14 Southeastern Home* 10/21 Gaston Away* 10/28 Weaver Away 8/19 White Plains Away 8/26 Wadley Home 9/02 Fayetteville Away* 9/09 B.B. Comer Away* 9/16 Woodland Home* 9/23 Open 9/30 Vincent Home* 10/07 Isabella Home* 10/14 Thorsby Away* 10/21 Central-Coosa Home* 10/28 Randolph County Away ► PELL CITY ► RAGLAND ► PIEDMONT ► RANDOLPH COUNTY► PLEASANT VALLEY ► RANBURNE *Region Games 2022 team schedules 20 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
8/19 Ohatchee Home 8/26 Sylvania Away 9/02 Beulah Home* 9/09 Dadeville Away* 9/16 Childersburg Home* 9/23 B.B. Comer Home 9/30 Randolph County Away* 10/07 Weaver Home* 10/14 Open 10/21 Walter Wellborn Away* 10/28 Talladega Away 8/18 Sand Rock Home 8/26 Coosa Christian Away 9/02 Wadley Home* 9/09 Victory Christian Away* 9/16 Winterboro Home* 9/23 Cedar Bluff Away 9/30 Talladega County Central Away* 10/07 Pleasant Valley Away 10/14 Donoho Home* 10/21 Ragland Away* 8/18 Spring Garden Away 8/26 Cedar Bluff Away 9/02 Pisgah Home* 9/09 Section Away* 9/16 Collinsville Away 9/23 West End Home 9/30 North Sand Mountain Home* 10/07 Fyffe Home* 10/14 Ider Away* 10/21 Whitesburg Christian Home* 8/19 Lincoln Away 8/26 Open 9/02 Cleburne County Away* 9/09 Munford Home* 9/16 Jacksonville Away* 9/23 Walter Wellborn Away 9/30 White Plains Home* 10/07 Handley Away* 10/14 Anniston Home* 10/21 Alexandria Home 10/28 Saks Home 8/19 Guntersville Home 8/25 Hokes Bluff Away 9/02 Lincoln Home* 9/09 Springville Away* 9/16 St. Clair County Home* 9/23 Boaz Away 9/30 Leeds Away* 10/07 Open 10/14 Alexandria Away* 10/21 Moody Home* 10/28 Etowah Home 8/19 Benjamin Russell Home 8/26 Moody Away 9/02 Elmore County Away* 9/08 Valley Home* 9/16 Trinity Presbyterian Away 9/23 Leeds Home 9/30 Beauregard Away* 10/07 Central-Clay County Home* 10/14 Tallassee Away* 10/21 Open 10/28 Piedmont Home ► SAKS ► SPRING GARDEN ► SAND ROCK ► TALLADEGA► SOUTHSIDE ► SYLACAUGA *Region Games BROUGHT TO YOU BY www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 21
8/19 Cedar Bluff Away 8/26 Vincent Home 9/02 Open 9/09 Talladega County Central Home* 9/16 Spring Garden Away* 9/23 Oakman Home 9/30 Donoho Home* 10/07 Ragland Away* 10/14 Wadley Home* 10/21 Victory Christian Home* 10/28 Childersburg Away 8/19 Victory Christian Away 8/26 Randolph County Home 9/02 B.B. Comer Home* 9/09 Thorsby Home* 9/16 Ranburne Away* 9/23 Open 9/30 Central-Coosa Away* 10/07 Vincent Home* 10/14 Fayetteville Home* 10/21 Isabella Away* 10/28 Wadley Away ► WINTERBORO ► WOODLAND *Region Games BROUGHT TO YOU BY 1941Locations2022in Piedmont, Oxford, Jacksonville, Centre, Southside, Gadsden, Alexandria, Auburn and Opelika www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 23
The Cubs will have to replace several All-State players including offensive lineman Damon Parr, defensive lineman Braxton Tucker, linebacker Jake Upton, and all over the field athlete Javais McGhee.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
An Alexandria offense that returns just 4 starters will be rebuilt around running back/strong safety Antonio Ross. One of the top talents in East Alabama, Ross is already committed to play college football for Liberty. He will be a featured back that Head Coach Todd Ginn says may touch the ball 30 times a game. Junior cornerback Ty Barker will also be one of the players battling for playing time at quarterback. Linebacker Ty Brown is a hard-nosed, physical player who will be a leader on defense. Other names to watch include receiver/cornerback T.K. Downey, receiver/defensive end Demarcus Williams, and offensive lineman D.J. Argo. 2022 SEASON Coach Ginn reports that there will be lots of competition or starting spots on both the offensive and defensive lines. Things will be different upfront with no real big linemen, but rather a smaller and faster line. The Cubs return just 4 starters on offense and 3 on defense. There are 14 seniors on a roster of 64 varsity players. A few changes in Class 5A, Region 6 with Center Point, Hayden, and Corner moving out and Springville and Southside moving in. Ginn points to Southside, Moody, Leeds, and Lincoln as some of the top teams in the region this season. Stadium: Lou Scales Stadium Colors: Orange & Black Offensive and Defensive lineman D.J. Argo, Head Coach Todd Ginn, and Running Back/Safety Antonio Ross
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 25
The Valley Cubs sailed to their first undefeated regular season in 15 years with a perfect 10-0 record and the Class 5A, Region 6 title as well. Alexandria was upset at home by a talented A.H. Parker team in the second round of the playoffs to finish 11-1. KEY LOSSES
CLASS, REGION: Class 5A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Todd Ginn 2021 RECORD: 11-1 Alexandria Valley Cubs 2021 REWIND
Anniston Bulldogs
CLASS, REGION: Class 4A, Region 4
The Anniston roster reads like a who’s who recruiting website. Ryquez McElderry is a 4-star lineman heading into his Senior campaign. At 6’4” 320 lbs., McElderry recently changed his commitment from Georgia to the University of Alabama in early July. He’s not the only Bulldog that will head to the SEC as the incredibly talented Kam Sandlin committed to South Carolina during the offseason. DB Jayden Lewis was an All-State performer a year ago and has been ranked a 4-star recruit. Lewis will be one of the most highly sought-after defenders in the Class of 2024. Also, remember the name of Grayshaun Swain. Named Honorable Mention All-State in 2021 as a Freshman, Swain is a disruptive edge rusher that is already a hot name in recruiting circles. 2022 SEASON The Class 4A Region 4 race will once again be one to watch. Handley and Jacksonville will return plenty of talent from state playoff teams in 2021. Cleburne County is expected to continue their resurgence. Munford and White Plains will also be tough opponents this fall. When you add a Talladega team under veteran Coach Bill Smith, you can see why many think this may be the most solid region in the state. Anniston will open up at “The Hill” as the Bulldogs take on Walter Wellborn on August 19. High school football fans will want to circle September 22 as AHS will visit Piedmont in a Thursday night showdown. The game marks the first matchup between the two Calhoun County powers since 1948.
HEAD COACH: Rico White 2021 RECORD: 5-5
KEY LOSSES
2021 REWIND
Stadium: Lott/Mosby Memorial Stadium Cardinal, White, Black & Gray
26 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
PLAYERS TO WATCH
WR/DB Antonio Kite wrapped up a successful career as an AllState selection and finishing as a finalist for the Class4A Back of the Year. Kite is expected to be an immediate contributor for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
The Bulldogs posted an 8-2 on the field overall record during the regular season. Two forfeits (including a region loss to Jacksonville) dropped the ‘Dogs into the 4th spot of Region 4 and sent AHS to St. James in round one of the playoffs. The Bulldogs lost a 28-26 heartbreaker to end the season.
Colors:
geniusThe of da Vinci®
Surgical robotics for minimally invasive surgery
rmccares.org
Your surgeon in control he da Vinci surgical system gives our surgeons an advanced set of instruments to use in performing robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery. Your sur geon performs surgery with da Vinci by using instru ments that he or she guides via a console. The da Vinci system translates your surgeon’s hand movements at the console in real time, bending and rotating the instruments while performing the procedure. The da Vinci vision system also delivers highly magnified, 3D high-definition views of the surgical area. The instru ment size makes it possible for surgeons to operate through one or a few small incisions.
Stadium:
The Bulldogs steady improvement was on display yet again last season. In Head Coach Shea Monroe’s second year, Ashville posted its first winning record in 16 seasons. The Bull dogs also came within one game of their first playoff berth since the 2005 season. Ashville fin ished the season strong with a three game winning streak and outscored their opponents 99-20 in that run.
Colors: Green & White 28 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
KEY LOSSES
PLAYERS TO WATCH
CLASS, REGION: Class 4A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Shea Monroe 2021 RECORD: 6-4
Ashville Bulldogs
The Bulldogs had strong lead ership last year and it played a huge part in the team’s success. Ashville will certainly miss the play of a pair of players who were selected to the all-region team. Four-year starting quarter back Dylan Harris (6’1”, 185 lbs) emerged as a dangerous sig nal-caller with his ability to pass in the pocket, on rollouts and runs between the tackles. RB/LB Cole Hyatt’s play was another factor in the Bulldogs’ attack.
The Bulldogs will once again return a strong group of players that contributed last season and are looking to take anoth er step this year. The running game will be led by RB Jalen Williams. The 5’11”, 240-pound star, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards last season, has the physicality to run between the tackles and enough speed to break open on long runs. Like wise, FB/DT Ashton Mostella is another player that will provide a big spark to the offense. Ryan Harris takes over as starting quarterback. FB/LB Travis Smith and K/P Greyson Simpson are expected to be impact players as well.
2022 SEASON Make no mistake about it, making the postseason is the big picture goal of the Bulldog football team. However, the course of action to stop the long postseason drought will focus on the small steps. The senior class is motivated to become the first class since 2005 to quali fy for the playoffs and the first since 2001 to win a postseason game. Once again they will have to compete against a very strong Region 6 and face 5A playoff qualifier Lincoln in non-region action. The team is poised and confident to take another big step forward. Kin Logan Stadium
2021 REWIND
KEY LOSSES
2022 SEASON
The Tigers return 7 starters on offense and 7 on defense with only 6 seniors, so depth is an issue. Head Coach Alan Beckett says the Tigers are thin in some spots and injuries would create a very tough situation for his 2022 team. The most notable change in region play is the addition of last year’s Region 8 champion Decatur Heritage into Region 7. Beckett looks to Heritage, Valley Head, and Coosa Christian as some of the top competition in region play.
PLAYERS TO WATCH Senior QB/DB Bucky Leek will be the leader of this Cedar Bluff team as he heads into the final year of an outstanding high school career. Watch for senior Cade Browning and Eli McFry at wide receiver. Browning will also start at linebacker. Dylan Kinard (6’3, 270) is a senior offensive and defensive lineman and is a returning All-State player. Senior Hagan Stallings will be another key contributor on the offensive line and at inside linebacker.
CLASS, REGION: Class 1A, Region 7 HEAD COACH: Alan Beckett 2021 RECORD: 6-5 Cedar Bluff Tigers 2021 REWIND Cedar Bluff won 4 out of their last 5 games to roll to the Class 1A, Region 7 title before falling to Woodland 28-20 at home in the First Round of the playoffs.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 29
The Tigers only lost 4 starters on offense and 4 on defense from last year’s Region 7 Championship team. There was some attrition over the summer to bring CB’s total numbers to 27 at the start of fall drills. Key losses included All-State players Jacob Burleson (DB) and Preston Burt (DL).
Stadium: Bruce Field Colors: Red & White
Clay-Central was hit hard by graduation, losing 8 offensive starters and 7 from the 2021 defense. Clay Yates had been a Swiss Army Knife for the Vols for the past several seasons. Starting at QB in 2021, Yates also was a key in the secondary, as well as handling all kicking and punting duties. Top RB Elisha McNeil is now at Faulkner University. Defensively, EJ Simmons has taken his imposing frame to the University of West Alabama. LB Jakheim McLemore is headed to Point University. ILB Brady Grice and Safety Jayce Maxwell will also be some big shoes to fill. PLAYERS TO WATCH After waiting in the wings for the past couple of seasons, Junior QB Darren Harris gets the nod behind center. “Darren has really worked hard and throws the ball well. Once he gets the experience, he’ll do a great job for us,” said Horn. Harris will have the luxury of having Terry Heflin join him in the backfield. Heflin, who has great speed, became a more physical runner during the last half of last season. WR Keisen Lindsey will return to the Vols’ offense and give Harris a quality target on the perimeter. Ethan Lett is the lone returner on the offensive line and will provide leadership to 4 new starters. Defensively, Jason Spivey will transition from linebacker to the trenches. He’ll join Omarion Marbury who improved throughout last season.
CLASS, REGION: Class 5A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Danny Horn 2021 RECORD: 9-3 Central Clay County Volunteers 2021 REWIND
The Volunteers got off to a 5-0 start before falling to top-ranked Pleasant Grove in week 6. The Vols went on to claim the region title before falling 40-33 at Faith Academy in Round Two of the Class 5A Playoffs. KEY LOSSES
2022 SEASON Re-classification placed the Volunteers in a 6-team region along with Valley (down from 6A), Sylacauga, Tallassee, Beauregard and Elmore County. “Valley will be a lot more competitive playing schools their own size. Sylacauga will always be tough. Tallassee beat us last year and have some good athletes back. Beauregard and Elmore County have a ton back. This region will be a battle every week,” Horn said. The Vols will open up at home against rival Benjamin Russell on August 26. Other non-region matchups include 4A powerhouse Handley, 5A contender Alexandria, 6A Wetumpka and 6A Russell County. “I wish I knew who put that schedule together,” Horn laughed.
Colors: Scarlet, Navy & White
30 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Stadium: Volunteer Stadium
2022 SEASON
Two of Cherokee County’s four losses came to state championship teams-3A Piedmont and 4A C.F. Vigor in the playoffs. The Warriors advanced to the 4A playoffs for the second straight year.
CLASS, REGION: Class 4A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Jacob Kelley 2021 RECORD: 7-4 Cherokee County Warriors 2021 REWIND
Stadium:
KEY LOSSES
PLAYERS TO WATCH
The Warriors graduated 12 seniors including All-State caliber players DB C.J Gresham, RB Damien Ramsay, OL Jay Watts, and PK Daniel Mejia.
Sophomore Tae Diamond earned 2nd Team Class 4A All-State honors as a freshman defensive lineman and will now also play at running back along with junior Jacob Cornejo, giving the Warriors two different styles of running back. There will be competition for the starting quarterback slot between returning starter Cade Hopper and Jeb Crane. Other names to watch include senior WR/ DB Malachi Horton, skill athlete Jack Amos, and senior DL Demarious Diamond, who Head Coach Jacob Kelley reports had a great off-season.
Field Colors: Black & Gold 32 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
There are only 10 seniors on the ’22 Warrior squad, but big junior and sophomore classes on the way. In all, CCHS brings back 8 starters on offense and 7 on defense with 57 total players on the team. Coach Kelly states that the Warriors have more depth and are bigger and faster. He says the strength of the team is the offensive and defensive lines, despite having only 1 senior. Centre moves into a new region and back into north Alabama the next two years, He tabs 2021 4A runner-up Oneonta as the favorite in the new Warrior region. Warriors Stadium/Johnson
Colors: Red &
2021 REWIND In his 3rd season at CCHS, Coach Burns continued to increase the season win total. The Tigers were much-improved in 2021, narrowly missing the Class 4A Playoffs.
The talk of 2021 around Cle burne County was the play of Quarterback Kyler McGrinn. After an injury-shortened Freshman campaign, McGrinn provid ed a highlight-filled season last fall. “Obviously, we expect Kyler to take that next step this sea son. He’s gotten stronger during the off-season and continues to work hard every day,” says Burns. McGrinn , only a Junior, will have a couple of playmak ers in the passing game. Senior Beau Clay is a 3-year starter at Wide Receiver while 6’3” Grey Freeman adds a big target to the outside. Senior Jaylan Groce will also be a vital part of the pass ing game. Rico Huguley will be the primary rusher this fall and has impressed the staff with his work during the off-season. Center Dylan Mize returns and will be a key leader for the guys in the trenches. Defensively, the Linebacker position should be solid for the Tigers. Junior Jake Dingler made the most of his first year as a starter in 2021. Senior Nate Adams and Junior James Cotton will be counted on to make plays from their po sitions at Outside Linebacker.
34 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Stadium:
CLASS, REGION: Class 4A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Joby Burns 2021 RECORD: 5-5 Cleburne County Tigers
Graduation took away some key performers and even better leaders for the Tigers. Linemen Russell Clanton and Cole McEl roy leave a huge void. Defensively, Linebacker Matthew Brown and Safety Grant Harcrow will be missed as well.
2022 SEASON Class 4A Region 4 will once again be a weekly war. “I really think this has to be the toughest region in the state of Alabama. Anniston has loads of talent returning. Jacksonville, Handley and Munford are always going to be good. There are no easy Fridays in this region,” says Burns. The Tigers will open up on the road at Mt. Zion, GA. The following Friday, Northside will make the trek from Tuscaloo sa County to L.E. Bell Stadium for the home opener. In other non-region action, CCHS will face Moody and will host Wellborn to wrap up the regular season. L.E. Bell Field White
KEY LOSSES
The shift in the Coosa Christian program has begun. The Conquerors have embraced a winner’s mindset and they will once again return to the field as hungry as ever. The team is motivated by an improved season in 2021 and they have doubled their efforts in the offseason workout program to compete with the best this year. The players also picked up valuable lessons on leadership and discipline in their preseason work. There are around 40 players on the roster which is an uptick from last season. All of the players have bought into a tough, physical approach and selfless mentality heading into the year. Phillip Ellen Stadium
CLASS, REGION: Class 1A, Region 7 HEAD COACH: Mark O’ Bryant 2021 RECORD: 4-6 Coosa Christian Conquerors
Colors: Carolina Blue & Vegas Gold 36 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
KEY LOSSES
2021 REWIND
The Conquerors got off to a nice start winning two of its first three games. Coosa Christian did not shy away from any competition. The team played up in classification in each of their non-region games: Westbrook Christian, Gaston and Whitesburg Christian (all 2A) and perennial Tennessee power Gatlinburg-Pittman. Despite the challenging slate, the Conquerors fell only one spot shy of the Class 1A playoffs.
The team fielded its youngest squad in many years. Coosa Christian started 14 players that were in eighth and ninth grades and it paired that with its smallest group of seniors (two). Most notably, defensive end Gabriel Southern (5’11”, 210 lbs) has graduated. The defensive line took another big hit with the departure of irell McClure (6’6”, 245 lbs) at DT. McClure was also a key on offense and was a force for the OL at left tackle.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
The Conquerors return a host of big-time playmakers from last season. Senior LB/QB Thomas Skaggs (6’1”, 215 lbs) is back and brings a physical presence to both of his positions. Fellow senior Jacoby Tucker (WR/DB) also returns and he will bring a lot of skill and speed to the table. LB/LS Dalton McGraw will be key on both defense and in special teams. Elsewhere, LB Eli Motes, eighth grader Hayden Pearce, QB John David Justus and OL Dylan East are also expected to make big contributions this season.
Stadium:
2022 SEASON
As always, the Titans graduated a strong senior class and many of them are headed to play on the collegiate level: DL Samuel Horton (Central Arkansas), RB C.J. Miller (Mercer), ATH Mason Johnson (West Georgia), DB Nehemiah Washington (West Alabama), DE Aaron Richard (Princeton), DB Kesley Smith (B’ham-Southern), WR Khamari Smith (Berry) and DB Rodney Johnson. PLAYERS TO WATCH
The Titans held their own in what is undoubtedly the tough est region in the state and arguably the strongest top-tobottom in the entire country. The Titans fell just a few games short of the playoffs, but it was evident they were one of the better teams in the grouping.
KEY LOSSES
The Titans return a large num ber of players that made major contributions in 2021. Offensive ly, QB Luke Waldrop returns for his junior season. The Titans are loaded at WR with Clyde Curry, Khalil Hughley and Justin Peoples back in the mix. Four of five offensive linemen are back and the unit will be anchored by Aar on Wood and Dorian Patterson. Defensively, the strongest unit is on the line. The tough and expe rienced group features Jackson Veasy, Elijah Dunn, Elijah Taylor and Steven Jones. The Titans will have to replace the produc tion at linebacker, but they feel good about K’rysiax Yow (con verted RB) and Stephen Powell. Defensive backs Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. and Braylen Starkes head up the secondary.
Stadium: Titan Stadium
Colors: Black, Cardinal & Silver
Gadsden City
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 41
Gadsden City led at halftime in four of the five games they lost.
CLASS, REGION: Class 6A, Region 8 HEAD COACH: Ali Smith 2021 RECORD: 5-5
Titans 2021 REWIND
2022 SEASON
The Titans were placed in Class 7A since the inception of the seventh classification in the AHSAA. For the first time in the school’s history, Gadsden City will not play in the state’s largest class. Although the Titans move down to Class 6A, the quality of opponents still remains very high with Fort Payne and Lee-Huntsville in region play. Meanwhile 6A semifinalist Hill crest-Tuscaloosa, Hewitt-Truss ville (7A), Hartselle, Calera and Carrollton (GA) await them in the non-region slate. The Titans have improved in each of the three previous seasons under Ali Smith and they hope to contin ue that trajectory.
2022 SEASON
The Bulldogs will miss the play of a couple of defensive leaders in LB Ethan Herren and DL James Blanton. The two also led the young team as they navigated through a very tough region and through adversity all season long.
Stadium: Captain Bill Boyd Field Colors: Red & White
42 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
The Bulldogs have had 5:00 a.m. workouts over the summer and almost every player has committed to work on their own off the practice field.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
The issue that plagued the Bulldogs all season was youth and inexperience. Gaston fielded a very young team that was essentially still developing the basics of the game. To their credit, the team never rolled over or complained about the situation, instead they continued to work and improve.
CLASS, REGION: Class 2A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Matt Harris 2021 RECORD: 1-9 Gaston Bulldogs
2021 REWIND
Several players are back and are looking to take a huge leap forward in 2022. RB/LB Kobe Harris returns for his senior season. Harris is athletic and will be a third year starter. Fellow RB/LB Josh Hester will be another playmaking weapon alongside Harris in the Bulldogs’ backfield. Junior QB Joel Hester has improved his game in the offseason and will be poised to lead the Gaston offense. Upfront, the team will be led by Nemo Samples (OL/ DL) who has started since his seventh grade season. Meanwhile, Luke Hollingsworth (OL/DL) is another big piece on the line that will help pave the way for the Bulldogs. Elsewhere, TE sophomore Keller Skaggs is projected to be a key figure and FB/LB Micah Wainwright (senior) will be pivotal on both sides of the ball.
KEY LOSSES
There has been a quiet confidence brewing in Gaston as the Bulldogs prepare for the season. The team has been self-motivated to return the program back to glory and it shows in their offseason work.
As coach Matt Harris enters his third season, he sees the team beginning to adopt the mindset of playing a physical brand of football with maturity and leadership off the field. Experience will now be one of the team’s strengths. Every player that will start this season has started in some capacity over the last two.
CLASS, REGION: Class 1A, Region 7 HEAD COACH: Brian Knapp 2021 RECORD: 6-5 Gaylesville Trojans 2021 REWIND 2021 was a breakout year for the Trojans as Gaylesville produced their first playoff appearance in 9 years and also fashioned their first winning season since 2013. PLAYERS TO WATCH Senior Briley Mitchell is a rare 6-year starter. The 6’2, 250 lb lineman has started since the 7th grade and will be a big cog on this Gaylesville team. Mitchell and running back Keylon Higgins were both First Team All-State players in Class 1A in 2021. Junior Kyler Bradley will be a major piece of the Trojan puzzle. He is a true utility player and will see time at wingback, quarterback, receiver, and kick returner.
Stadium:
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 43
2022 SEASON Head Coach Brian Knapp says the strengths of his team will be the offensive line and secondary. Depth at running back and injuries are his biggest concern this fall. The Trojans return 7 starters on both offense and defense. There are 12 upperclassmen and 5 sophomores, with a total varsity roster of 27 players. Knapp expects the Trojans to compete for a region title and a state playoff berth again. He sees the top teams in the region as Valley Head, Cedar Bluff, and Decatur Heritage. Trojan Field Colors: Purple & White
KEY LOSSES The Yellow Jackets saw the departure of several leaders both on the field and in the locker room. The impact will be felt both in the trenches and along the perimeter. Graduated players include: DE Levi Long, DT Kade Crowder, OL Connor Brown, WR/DB Hayden Smith, WR/DB/P Kade Kueny, RB Hunter Hanners, DB Carson Naylor and DE Austin Cochran.
2022 SEASON Change in any program brings with it a lot of excitement and that is true for the Glencoe program this year. The change at the top of the program has the community buzzing as proven winner Scott Martin takes over the team. Martin is entering his 30th season as a head coach and 37th overall year coaching high school football. If there is one aspect of Martin’s career that stands out, it is his ability to put any program he’s led on the winning track. He’s quick to lay out the elements that make it happen (consistency, complete buy-in, trust in each other and embracing challenges). Glencoe is not far removed from their consistent playoff runs from 2009-15 and ten senior players are looking to lead that charge this season. Look for the Yellow Jackets to have an improved level of physicality this fall.
44 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
PLAYERS TO WATCH Good news for the Yellow Jackets as they learn a new offense-the leader of that unit returns. Senior Nolan Fairley is back under center for Glencoe this season and he’s ready to embrace the challenge of what is to come. One of the guys blocking for Fairley and the rest of the Glencoe backfield is Caleb Chapman. The senior will be a key figure both on and off the field this year.
Glencoe Yellow
Stadium: Wilson-Darnell Field Colors: Black & Gold
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Scott Martin 2021 RECORD: 1-9 Jackets 2021 RECAP Playing in the toughest region in the state, the Yellow Jackets took a few hits last year, but they always got right back up and never quit. Glencoe closed the region portion of their schedule with a big shutout victory over Pleasant Valley (49-0).
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Mike Robertson 2021 RECORD: 4-6 Hokes Bluff Eagles 2021 REWIND Hokes Bluff split their first 6 games, but only won 1 of the final four to finish at 4-6 and missed the Class 3A playoffs for the second straight year. KEY LOSSES The Eagles lost six starters on offense and 7 on defense from the 2021 team. In total the Bluff lost 16 seniors. PLAYERS TO WATCH Standout players for Hokes Bluff in 2022 include senior tight end/inside linebacker Jaylen Simmons (6’1, 190), junior offensive lineman/linebacker Brayson Hayes (5’11, 225), sophomore offensive lineman Leon Chen (5’11, 195), and senior tailback Noah Sprayberry (5’10, 165). 2022 SEASON Hokes Bluff returns 5 starters on offense and just 4 on defense with 14 seniors among the 59 man roster. Head Coach Mike Robertson notes that the Eagles are young with only 10 juniors and will be mostly a sophomore and freshman team. The Eagles new region retains Piedmont, Glencoe, and Ohatchee, but welcomes new foes Westbrook Christian, Geraldine, Plainview, and Sylvania. Hokes Bluff will play a fall jamboree versus Alexandria and open the season on Thursday, August 25th versus Southside. Stadium: Mike Robertson Stadium Colors: Green & White www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 45
CLASS, REGION: Class 4A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Clint Smith 2021 RECORD: 7-4 Jacksonville Golden Eagles 2021 REWIND Jacksonville lost 2 of the first 3 on the field, but rebounded to win 5 of their last 7, including a First Round Class 4A playoff win at home versus Alabama Christian.
Stadium: Golden Eagle Stadium
46 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Colors: Blue & Gold Offensive Tackle Nick Smith, Quarter back Jim Ogle, and Wide Receiver Drew Pridgen.
KEY LOSSES
The Golden Eagles will have a tough time replacing the middle of the 2021 defense. All-State Linebacker Quintavious Long and fellow LB Tito Canales have graduated. Offensively, replacing Running Back Jay-Taj Morris will be a major focus. Wide Receiver Jakoby Zachary, who doubled in the defensive secondary, will be missed in the passing attack.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
The high-flying Eagles’ aerial attack is expected to be one of the most dynamic passing attacks this area has seen in a while. QB Jim Ogle finished 2021 as Honorable Mention All-State and provides a huge arm and play-making ability for Coach Smith’s offense. Ogle is garnering plenty of recruiting attention and hauling in offers from across the country. Wide Receivers Drew Pridgen, Kydric Fisher and Will Phillips should add plenty of weapons to the 2022 offense. The guys with the “hands in the dirt” also bring a smile to Smith’s face. Five Senior starters return to the offensive line for their third season together. Twins Nick and Nate Smith lead the way alongside Zac Limberis, Cooper Hodge and Hayden Smith. Those guys upfront should be able to create running lanes for G Turner and Zay English, who are expected to share the carries out of the backfield. Defensively, Linebackers Charlie Wright and Ryan Mitchell return. Defensive End Lewis Bitticks can make plays off the edge. In the secondary, Drake Loggins and Demonte Sinclair provide plenty of leadership on the back end. QB Ogle will also handle the punting duties and Senior Mason Terrell will be a 4-year starter at Kicker. 2022 SEASON
The 2022 season will be a test early for the Golden Eagles. JHS will open up with a couple of 5A opponents as Boaz visits Golden Eagle Stadium before a trip to arch-rival Alexandria. The following two outings will be showdowns with Handley and Anniston. “Those two have to be the favorites in Region 4 going into the season,” said Smith. “This region is so competitive and evenly matched. It seems to be this way every year. We expect a dogfight every week,” Smith concluded. The season wraps up at 6A Oxford as the county foes will meet for the first time since 2001.
Are you an outdoor enthusiast or do you enjoy great food, entertainment, and lodgings? Calhoun County has adventures for you and your family! Come explore our natural attractions from kayaking, biking, hiking, golfing, sports complexes, state parks, historical sites, museums and MORE! Calhoun County is a haven complete with award winning restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, performing arts, and comfortable accommodations. The Calhoun County Commission would like to personally invite you to plan your next adventure with us. EAT STAY PLAY and VISIT Calhoun County, AL District 1 FredCommissionerWilson District 2 DannyCommissionerShears District 3 CarolynCommissionerHenderson District 4 JDCommissionerHess District 5 LeeCommissionerPatterson CALHOUN COUNTY COMMISSION
Stadium: Keith Howard Memorial Stadium Colors: Black & Old Gold Gavin Hobbs (LB / TE) and Camare Hampton (WR / CB)
Lincoln Golden Bears 2021 RECAP
CLASS, REGION: Class 5A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Matt Zedaker 2021 RECORD: 6-5
48 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
PLAYERS TO WATCH Despite the loss of players to graduation, the Golden Bears return a number of all-county performers as well as many other players who have developed in the last year. WR/CB Camare Hampton, DL Braxton Harmon and ATH Brandon Estelle were listed to the all-county team. Linebacker Gavin Hobbs is described as the defense’s “alpha dog” and the senior finished last season on a strong note. The tough and athletic defensive unit will make life difficult for opposing offenses. Tight end Josh Spratling will bring a seasoned veteran presence and DL Michael Parker is poised to have another strong year. 2022 SEASON The Golden Bears bounced back after a rough 2020 campaign with six wins last year and now they want to take it a step further in 2022. Lincoln has intentionally refocused their mindset to prepare for a deep run in the playoffs. The journey to December, of course, begins with a strong start to the season. The Bears once again compete in a very tough region and a pair of former 6A teams enter the mix as Southside and Springville join the club. Lincoln returns six starters on offense and eight on defense. They are poised to have strong leadership again with 19 seniors.
KEY LOSSES The Bears graduated a strong senior class that left their mark in Golden Bear football history.
Linebacker Zacchaeus Wren was named all-county defensive player of the year. Lincoln saw other talented players with several accolades leave via graduation including: LB/RB Cor’Tavion Elston, WR Jakorrian Davis, RB/LB Chorion Kelly, K Nick Munroe, OL/DL Zavion McCluney, OL/DL Malakai Straw, CB/WR Cornelius Glass and TE/ DE Isaiah Ashley.
After starting the season with a 1-3 record, the Golden Bears ripped off five wins in the following six games and qualified for the playoffs in their extremely tough region. Lincoln’s 69-13 win over Munford in week six set a school record for the largest margin of victory. The Golden Bears were extremely tough to play at home posting a 4-1 mark at Keith Howard Memorial Stadium.
CLASS, REGION: Christian Football Association (8 man) HEAD COACH: Tommy Miller 2021 RECORD: 2-6 Jacksonville Christian Thunder 2021 REWIND
The Thunder lost their first five games of the 2021 season, but finished strong winning 2 of the last 3 contests to finish 2-6.
2022 SEASON Head Coach Tommy Miller welcomes 19 players to the roster this season, which is an actual slight increase over the last couple of seasons. 5 of 8 starters return on both sides of the ball. JCA suffered a fire at the school earlier in the year and the beginning of the school year has been a challenge. Coach Miller says the fire and its aftermath have affected things like practice time and off-season prep work, but it has not affected the players at all. For the third year, Jacksonville Christian will compete in the 8 man Alabama Christian Football Association (CFA) as Faith Temple Church Jacksonville.
PLAYERS TO WATCH Jax Christian has a nice mix for returning seniors and a couple of senior athletes playing football for the first time. Braxton Brown (FB/LB), Cameron Moses (OL/ DL), and Travis Barnhill (LB/WR/ TE) are returning seniors and will be joined by fellow seniors Ethan Fair (WR/CB) and Tyler Doggrell (DE/TB) coming from the basketball team. Junior Deon Dupree (5’6, 305) is the strongest player on the team and will anchor both lines at center and noseguard. Freshman Noah Lee played some at quarterback last year and throws the ball well and has a good understanding of the game.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 49
Stadium: Tommy Miller Field Colors: Red, Black & White
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 51
KEY LOSSES
There will be a battle for the quarterback job at the Creekbank this season. Jesse Baswell was a starting running back last season and he will now be locked in a contest for the QB job with last year’s backup Bryce Noah. There will be lots of new faces, but key returnees include OL/LB Mathew King, OL/DL Elijah Engle, running back/linebacker Tyler Watters, and OLB/RB Devin Howell. 2022 SEASON 2022 brings a young team for Ohatchee with only three starters back on offense and four on defense. There are 13 seniors, with about 40 players on the 9th-12th grade roster. Head Coach Chris Findley says that there will be 7-8 players that will have to play on both sides of the ball for the Indians this season. Despite Class 3A, Region 6 switching out a number of teams, the region remains tough with defending state champion Piedmont and three more state playoff teams on the region slate.
Colors: Red & White Outside Linebacker/Running Back Devin Howell, Head Coach Chris Findley, and Linebacker/Running Back Chris Ferguson
52 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
A mid-year coaching change did not derail another successful season on The Creekbank. After two on the field losses to open the season, the Tribe’s only losses after that included to 3A semi-finalist Saks and quarterfinal team Winfield. Along the way, Ohatchee knocked off eventual 3A champ Piedmont at Roy Owens Field.
Stadium: Roy C. Owens Field
PLAYERS TO WATCH
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Chris Findley 2021 RECORD: 9-3 Ohatchee Indians 2021 REWIND
The losses were heavy for Ohatchee from the 2021 squad. The Indians lost 8 starters on offense and 7 on defense, including First Team Class 3A All-State QB/RB Eli Ennis and LB Wyatt Reaves.
54 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
CLASS, REGION: Class 6A, Region 6
PLAYERS TO WATCH Oxford only lost 11 seniors from the 2021 team, so there are lots of returnees on both sides of the ball. Returning quarterback senior Sam Robertson (an Auburn baseball commit) will be challenged in a tight race by sophomore Mason Mims. Running back is in good hands with the return of junior Jaydon Thomas (5’10, 190). There is plenty of depth and talent at receiver with Nick Richardson and Judd Syer. The defense features linebacker Keenan Britt (brother of former Oxford and Auburn star K.J. Britt). Britt is a freshman who started as an 8th grader. Other players to watch on defense include ILB Michael Battle, safety Davon Larkins, and defensive back Emari Carroll and defensive end Josiah Kimbrough. 2022 SEASON Oxford returns 8 starters on offense and 7 starters on defense and the overall numbers are good across the board with 20 seniors and 98 players in the program in grades 9-12. Coach Sam Adams says, “We played lots of 9th graders last year and started an 8th grader, so even though we are still young this is a very mature team.” There are lots or returnees and Adams reports that has made practice at Oxford more efficient this year. Oxford totally changes regions, switching from Region 7 to 6 and moving back to region play that includes defending 6A champion ClayChalkville and ’17, ’18, and ’20 champion Pinson Valley. Stadium: Lamar Field Colors: Black & Old Gold
HEAD COACH: Sam Adams 2021 RECORD: 7-5 Yellow Jackets 2021 REWIND
Defensive End Josiah Kimbrough and Defensive Back Emari Carroll
The Yellow Jackets lost three All-State players from the Class 6A Second Round playoff squad including offensive lineman Kyle Pilkington, linebacker Jordan Dobbins, and defensive back Miguel Mitchell.
KEY LOSSES
Oxford
Heavy graduation losses, offseason attrition, key injuries, and a brutal schedule led to a rough start for the Jackets. Oxford lost 4 of their first 6 on the field, but rebounded to win 4 of the last six including the Class 6A, Region 7 Championship.
Top players to watch for from this Pell City team in 2022 include linebacker Drew Sission, quarterback Caleb Groce, offensive lineman Michael Snow, and athlete Carlos Herring, who will play multiple postions.
Stadium: Pete Rich-Alumni Stadium Black Gold
&
2022 SEASON Pell City swung for the fences in the off-season and posted a grand-slam hire to head up the Panther program. Veteran Head Coach Steve Mask will take over the helm after a 10-year stint at St. Paul’s. Mask led the Saints to 4 State Championships and a 29-6 post-season record. He has posted a 210-98 record over the past 26 seasons. Reclassification means almost a totally new schedule for the Panthers. Only arch-rival Oxford remains on the schedule from last fall. The Yellow Jackets and Pinson Valley mark the only two region games at Pete Rich-Alumni Stadium. The Panthers will head to 2021 State Champion Clay-Chalkville, Center Point, Shades Valley and Huffman to complete region competition. The Steve Mask era will begin at home on Friday, August 19 as the Panthers play host to the Moody Blue Devils.
Colors:
The Panthers lost three games by 7 points or less in 2022. Those three losses were all in region play and prevented Pell City from advancing to the 6A playoffs. Pell City finished 2-8 with a win early against Talladega and a victory in the last game versus Mae Jemison.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
CLASS, REGION: Class 6A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Steve Mask 2021 RECORD: 2-8 Pell City Panthers 2021 REWIND
56 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
2022 SEASON
Piedmont returns five starters on offense and seven on defense from the Class 3A title team. This is a deep and experienced Bulldog squad again with 22 seniors and a total of 66 players on the roster. Piedmont is still in Region 6, but the region has drastically changed losing county rivals Pleasant Valley, Weaver, Saks, and Wellborn in exchange for Westbrook Christian and Dekalb County schools Plainview, Geraldine, and Sylvania. The Bulldogs begin the season at #1 again and it will take an outstanding team to have a chance to knock them from that lofty ranking in 2022.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Piedmont Bulldogs
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Steve Smith 2021 RECORD: 13-2
Colors: Blue & Gold
Quarterback Jack Hayes and Wide Receiver Max Hanson
Graduation claimed 6 starters on offense and 4 off the defense from the state title squad. Key losses include speedy receiver Austin Estes, athlete Omarion Foster, linebacker Landon Smart, and linemen Noah Reedy and Steven Raney. All were Class 3A First Team All-State players.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 57
KEY LOSSES
2021 REWIND
Names to watch for Piedmont in 2022 include senior fouryear starting quarterback Jack Hayes. He was led Piedmont to two state titles and was the Class 3A Player of the Year in 2021. Parker Thornton is a three-year starting skill athlete, while the Bulldogs also return receivers Max Hanson and Gatlin Gardner. Expect big things form sophomore receiver Ishmael Bethel. There are two starters back on the offensive front led by center Connor Williams and guard Landon McDaniels. Brody Epps leads the defense at linebacker, and all three starters are back on the defensive line (Trent Young, Fisher Adams, and Chance Murphy). Secondary leaders include Cody Holloway and McClain Mohon. The Bulldogs also return senior kicker/punter Sloan Smith.
Stadium: Field of Champions
The Bulldogs fell to third place in the final region standings because of tiebreakers, but swept their way though the Class 3A state playoffs. The run culminated with a come from behind (the largest in state title game history) victory against Montgomery Academy to clinch the 5th 3A state championship in school history.
Pleasant Valley will certainly miss the play of running back Zeke Johnson. Johnson provided a spark when the Raiders needed it. Pleasant Valley also saw the departure of QB Braydon Maye who helped pace the unit.
KEY LOSSES
There is an old axiom about how people and teams grow through adversity. That adage certainly applies to this year’s Raiders squad. The team battled plenty of adversity each week in the daunting region that was Class 3A, Regions 5 & 6. However, the team took every game as a launching point for improvement. That mindset will serve them well as they make their return to Class 2A football. The schedule is not easy by any measure. Two of the teams that played in the 2A state finals and quarterfinals are still in place (Cleveland & Southeastern, respectively). Head Coach Jonathan Nix praised the team’s leadership and growth physically and mentally. The Raiders return nine starters on offense and eight on defense.
#11 - Dalton Haynes (RB / SS) - Austin English (OL) Valley 2021 REWIND
CLASS, REGION: Class 2A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Jonathan Nix 2021 RECORD: 1-9 Pleasant
The weekly scoreboard is not an accurate measurement of the Raiders’ growth last season. The coaching staff was successful in getting new students in the school interested in playing football again for the Raiders. Over the course of the year, the Raiders grew more confident as they learned the ins and outs of what it takes to become a strong team. Their confidence never wavered as they rolled through Class 3A’s toughest region.
The Raiders bring an eager and battle-tested squad this season. RB/SS Dalton Haynes has been a team leader and even learned the ropes of coaching while he was sidelined with an injury. OL Austin English heads up a gritty and strong group of linemen. The Raiders will also rely on OL/DL sophomore Grey Knight and junior Connor Crump in the trenches. Seniors Dason Vick (RB/SS) and Zane Cash (TE/LB) will also provide a much-needed spark to the team on both sides of the ball. Luke Cramer (LB/WR) and Zeke Curvin (RB) suffered offseason injuries but they will both be a major factor in the team’s unity. Holt Bentley (WR), Connor George (TE/DE), Bryce Freeman (QB/CB) and Braxton Salster (QB) are also expected to make key contributions.
58 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Raiders
2022 SEASON
Stadium: Raider Stadium Colors: Red, White & Blue
#70
PLAYERS TO WATCH
PLAYERS TO WATCH WR/DB Jordan Turner is back after posting a strong junior season (18 receiving touchdowns). Defenses will not be able to focus solely on Turner because WR/DB Ezra Hill also returns as an explosive athlete who has added weight in the offseason. OLB/TB D.J. Turner is also back as a returning starter that will play a major role on both sides of the ball. In the trenches, linemen Jaden Isbell and Will Clark are also back to lead the unit upfront. Newcomer Casey Phillips has made an immediate impact this offseason and is expected to have a key role on the team. Younger players expected to make key contributions include A’ron Lee (RB/CB) and WR Brayden Byers. Sophomores Drake Kay and Antwan Byers will battle for the starting quarterback job, but both are expected to see the field in some capacity.
CLASS, REGION: Class 1A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Wes Tidwell 2021 RECORD: 9-3
Ragland will certainly miss the play of all-state quarterback Owen Schall. The three-year starter led the offense to new heights last season with a bevy of talented skill players around him. The Purple Devils will also lose the key production from both Kentrell Turner and Javaris Turner. Both players were very versatile in the Devils’ attack. Upfront Ragland lost the anchor of the line Jaxon Phillips. Defensive back Jaiden Cox also played a huge role in the secondary for the Purple Devils.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 59
KEY LOSSES
Purple
2021 REWIND Coach Wes Tidwell’s first season with the Purple Devils was a success in a lot of ways. The Purple Devils lit up the scoreboard averaging 37.7 points per game and scored 452 points on the season which marked the highest total in a year since 2013. Ragland once again made the playoffs in a very tough region (Region 5). The team set a school record with 78 points in a game and posted a 4-1 record at home.
Stadium: Joan Ford Stadium Colors: Purple & Old Gold
Ragland Devils
2022 SEASON After falling in the playoffs to Decatur Heritage by a score of 76-60, the Purple Devils had no shortage of motivation going into this season. The OL and DL have taken huge steps in both their maturity and physicality. After two straight second round exits, the Devils are poised and hungry to get over the hump.
The Bulldogs finished 4th in Class 2A Region 4 after a 6-4 regular season. RHS ended the 2021 campaign with a loss to Elba in the First Round of Class 2A Playoffs.
Ranburne Bulldogs
Stadium: Harlan Robinson Field Colors: Purple & Gray 60
KEY LOSSES
PLAYERS TO WATCH After an intense recruiting battle, OL/DL Carson Hall recently committed to play at the Air Force Academy. At 6’4” 280 lbs., Hall had offers from across the nation after back-to-back AllState seasons. He heads into his Senior season as the team leader on both sides of the line. Bo Young returns to the line as well and will be counted on to pave the way for the Bulldog rushing attack. Coach Bailey emphasized that the Bulldogs would need to run the football much better in 2022. Caleb Benefield returns to the backfield and should get plenty of opportunities to make huge plays for the RHS offense. Linebacker Rhett Williamson will spearhead the Bulldog defense after an impressive season in 2021. 2022 SEASON Re-classification will create several new region matchups this fall for RHS. After being a nonregion opponent the past several years, arch-rival Woodland now jumps into Region 4. Other newcomers to the Bulldogs’ region include Thorsby, Isabella and Central Coosa. “We’ve not played a lot of these teams since I’ve been here. From what I’ve seen, these programs are extremely solid. We need to stay healthy and be ready to play every week,” said Bailey. RHS will continue to face Wadley and Randolph County in non-region play. The Bulldogs will open up the season at White Plains on August 19.
| High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
The Bulldogs will look to replace All-State Wide Receivers Jaxon “Slap” Langley and Tyler Craft. Both players are headed to Birmingham-Southern to continue their athletic careers. All-State Linebacker Cade Mitchell, who doubled as Kicker, will also be tough to replace.
CLASS, REGION: Class 2A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Stephen Bailey 2021 RECORD: 6-5
2021 REWIND
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Pat Prestridge 2021 RECORD: 1-9
2022 SEASON
The 2022 schedule has a few familiar foes but plenty of new opponents for the Tigers. RCHS will open at rival Woodland on August 26. Other non-region opponents feature Wadley in the mid-season and Ranburne in the regular season finale. Region 4 play begins with a home date with Childersburg in the first meeting ever between the two schools. That will be followed by a visit from Ragland for the first time since 1954. As for the rest of the region schedule, The Tigers will travel to Weaver, Welborn and Dadeville and face Saks and Beulah at Hulond Humphries Stadium.
KEY LOSSES The Tigers were a very young team in 2021. Only four Seniors took the field for RCHS last fall.
Stadium: Hulond Humphries Stadium Colors: Navy, White & Old Gold
Randolph County Tigers 2021 REWIND RCHS started 2021 with a high scoring road win against archrival Woodland, but did not attain victory again in rugged Class 2A, Region 4.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 61
PLAYERS TO WATCH As with most 3A programs across the state, most of the Tigers will be playing on both sides of the football. QB Avion Willis returns for his Junior season marking his 3rd year as the starter. At 6’2”, Willis is a dynamic dualthreat athlete that can make plays with his arm and his legs. He will also direct the secondary from his safety position. WR Zac Caldwell expects to be the top receiving target for Willis in his Senior campaign as well as get the start as defensive back. In the backfield, 230-pound Austin Terrell will be bring the power to the rushing attack and to stop the opponents from his linebacker post. Christian Jefferson provides speed and quickness to the backfield and should get plenty of rushing opportunities as well. The Tigers will have plenty of size on the offensive front this fall. Tyler McNear, Haydon Glasgow, Trent Wilson and Demarcus Chappell look to pave the way for a more potent offense in 2022.
#14 - Owen Petty (RB / LB) #23 - Keondre Johnosn (RB / LB)
KEY LOSSES
62 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
The word “heartbreaking” seems to fall short as a de scription of the end of the 2021 campaign. The Wildcats came within a few snaps of the Class 3A state championship game in a down-to-the-wire contest against eventual state champion Piedmont in the state semifinals (52-44 the final). Despite the way the season ended, the Wildcats produced one of the best years in school history averaging 38.6 points per game offensively while setting a school record for points in a game (65). Mean while, the defense allowed sev en points or less seven times.
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Jonathan Miller 2021 RECORD: 12-2
Despite the load that last year’s senior class carried, several players with plenty of experi ence return to the squad this year. The Wildcats will use a unique approach at quarter back with a few different players getting the first touch of the ball each snap. However, it is not a “quarterback battle”, per se, as players in the rotation at QB will also fill in at other positions. Jakari Streeter, Trent Hopkins and Owen Petty are expected to be playmakers that can line up in a bevy of positions (in cluding QB). Keondre Johnson and Dorien Walker will be a pair of the featured running backs and contribute on defense. The offensive line returns a trio of starters in Ramond Pearson, J.J. Waters and Tyreic Foster.
2022 SEASON
Saks Wildcats 2021 REWIND
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Starting QB Sean Parnell was the steady hand for the of fense with a dangerous ability to throw and run the football. Saks will also miss the talents of first team all-state performers: Braelan Robinson (DL), Jalen McCants (WR) and Shon Elston (DB). Parnell was an honorable mention all-state selection as was linebacker Deniro Goode. Saks will also be without talented RB Rickey Garrett. Almost all aforementioned players are slated to play on the collegiate level this season.
The Wildcats graduated most of the production from the skill positions but they return several players who played meaningful snaps in big games. Expect the strength of the team to be in the trenches on both sides of the ball. That, in and of itself, will provide a great foundation as the skill players on offense find their “homes”. The core of this year’s team lies in their versatility and work ethic.
Stadium: Jack Stewart Field Colors: Red & White
•HARDWARE•LAWN•WINDOWS•DOORS•ROOFING•SIDING•LUMBER•PAINT•TOOLS•ELECTRICAL•PLUMBING&GARDEN•OUTDOORLIVING•INSULATION•POWEREQUIPMENT OPEN: Mon. - Fri. 7am - 6pm., Sat. 7am - 5pm 1400 Barry Street, Oxford, AL • 256-831-0540 • www.oxfordlumber.com LOW PRICE GUARANTEE We will beat any competitor’s price on a like item of the same brand, size, grade, species-with verification. All you have to do is ask!
The Wildcats lost a number of key pieces, most notably WR Olin Pruitt. Also OL/DL Bryan East provided a steady force in the trenches. Sand Rock will also miss the talents of safety Tru Graham. PLAYERS TO WATCH
The Wildcats are replacing four offensive linemen, but the coaching staff has a lot of faith in the guys filling their place. The unit is physical and carries a lot of confidence after last season. The schedule is once again a challenging one as Spring Garden is back on the slate (as a non-region game). The region features Fyffe (back from Class 3A) and three others who made the postseason last year (Ider, Pisgah and North Sand Mountain). Stadium: Russell Jacoway Stadium
The go-to guy of the offense will be versatile athlete Trace Haygood (6’0”, 185 lbs). The senior will be used in a variety of roles as he can line up as a wide receiver or running back. Unfortunately for the Wildcats, last season’s starting quarterback Ace Ashley will begin the year on the sideline after tearing his ACL in the offseason. The senior threw for over 1,700 yards and 20 touchdowns last season. Filling in for Ashley is Carson Chestnut who has grown into the position as he enters his sophomore campaign. Four-year starter Bradley Jackson returns to the offensive and defensive lines. TE Logan Crider (6’3, 220 lbs) was the second-leading receiver last year and will also contribute at LB. Elsewhere, linemen Nathan Haygood and Hugh Moore, WR Brian Giles and safety Jace Turner have also stepped up as team leaders. 2022 SEASON
Sand Rock Wildcats 2021 REWIND
The Wildcats bounced back after a 3-7 campaign in 2020 and made a trip to the playoffs after a three-year hiatus. Coach Alan Heath’s second season saw vast improvement across the board including a major leap offensively. The Wildcats scored 382 points on the season - the most points in a year since 1997. Sand Rock held their own in arguably the toughest region in the northern section of Class 2A. KEY LOSSES
Colors: Maroon & White
64 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
CLASS, REGION: Class 2A, Region 7 HEAD COACH: Alan Heath 2021 RECORD: 7-4
CLASS, REGION: Class 5A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Miles Holcomb 2021 RECORD: 5-6
Head coach Miles Holcomb’s first season with the Panthers started off with a bang. The Panthers won five of their first seven games out of the gate in impressive fashion. Southside continued to grind it out and finished in the top four of the region standings and earned a berth in the Class 6A playoffs. Three of the Panthers six losses were by a combined mere 17 points (against Lincoln, Ft. Payne & Scottsboro).
2021 REWIND
KEY LOSSES
Several seniors took on the challenge of a new coach and a new system and served as key leaders of what they expect to be a strong program. Defensively, the Panthers were led by second team allstate selection John Gilbert at defensive end. Fellow DE Ethan Light also solidified the defensive line. OLB Spencer Sharpe was another key factor for the defense. Meanwhile the offensive line will miss the talents of Tucker Pearce and Taylor Carr.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 65
PLAYERS TO WATCH
2022 SEASON
The Panthers returning have a great foundation to build on this year. Senior QB Gage NeSmith is back to lead the offense and he will have a great surrounding cast. Southside returns five major contributors at WR and the unit could be one of the best in school history. The group will be led by Cody Roberts and Cayden McMichael. On the offensive line, center Jacob Strunk is back and tackle Mark Fuller returns for his senior season. The defense is stacked with returning players as well. MLB Tytan Rich and DL Jerrod Harden will lead the front seven. CB Smiley Jones and Safety Koal Garrett will patrol the secondary and cap off a very tough unit. Meanwhile kicking duties will be handled by talented senior Abdullah Alabbasi.
Southside Panthers
The Panthers are one of nine teams from across the state that will make the move from Class 6A to 5A making the classification one of the most competitive in recent memory. Southside enters the season with a lot of earned confidence and they have been working hard this offseason to take their results to another level. Stadium: Barney Hood Stadium Colors: Black & Cardinal
Stadium: Jason Howard Stadium Colors: Maroon & Gold
2021 REWIND Spring Garden lost on the field to eventual 2A state runnerup Cleveland, but because of a forfeit of that game, the Panthers officially finished 100-the first undefeated season in school history. The Panthers advanced to the quarter-finals of the Class 2A playoffs.
Spring Garden
KEY LOSSES Spring Garden suffered losses in talent and depth with the loss of 9 offensive starters and 8 defensive starters. The losses included all-star players in RB Andrew Floyd, WR Cooper Austin, and OL/DL Landon Gowens. The overall numbers are down as well with 26 players on the fall depth chart.
Panthers
PLAYERS TO WATCH This is a young Panther squad with just two starters returning on offense and three on defense. Returning players to watch include Jr. QB Chapel Pope, who moved to quarterback in Week 6 and led SG to the 3rd round playoff game. Senior Cam Welsh (6’1, 190) will be a force at defensive end and H-back. Connor Bates is a young talent at running back and at linebacker. Senior Mathias Williams returns to lead the offensive line. Sophomore offensive lineman Jacob Welsh at 6’7, 275 lbs is believed to be the biggest football player in Spring Garden history. Other names to watch include DE/ WR John Welsh, center Tanner Ruark, and WR Braxton Haney.
2022 SEASON Spring Garden returns to Class 1A after two successful years in 2A and just in time as this will be a young team without much depth. There are only 5 seniors and 3 juniors, with most of the squad comprised of sophomores. Head Coach Jason Howard says there will be growing pains and some of the young players will have to grow into their roles. The move back down to 1A lands the Panthers in a tough region with defending 1A runner-up Wadley, and second round playoff teams Ragland and Winterboro.
CLASS, REGION: Class 1A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Jason Howard 2021 RECORD: 12-1
66 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
CLASS, REGION: Class 4A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Bill Smith 2021 RECORD: 1-9
Stadium: Mary Dumas Stadium Colors: Red & White
PLAYERS TO WATCH
2022 SEASON One of the biggest coaching moves in the off-season brought veteran Coach Bill Smith to Talladega. Entering his 14th season, Smith returns to Talladega County after leading Munford to 28 wins and 3 playoff appearances from 201518. “We have to understand what it takes to win and do those things on a consistent basis 365 days a year,” said AfterSmith.the past two years in Class 5A Region 4, reclassification has dropped the Tigers down to 4A for the next couple of seasons. The move should allow the Tigers to be more competitive and see some familiar foes. “I’ve coached in several classifications and I think this region has some of the toughest teams you can find. When you look at Handley, Anniston and Jacksonville, I don’t know of a region in the state that has 3 teams with as much talent,” Smith said. Talladega will open up the 2022 campaign on the road as the Tigers travel to cross-county rival Lincoln on August 19.
The Tigers were competitive at times, especially at the end of the season with their lone win on the road at Elmore County and a tough 2 TD loss at Shelby County to close the year at 1-9.
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 67
Talladega Tigers 2021 REWIND
New Coach Bill Smith’s search for leadership began on day one and ended soon after. Senior Chris Isbell has set the tone for the team with his work ethic and is expected to be a major contributor at wide receiver and defensive back for the Tigers. Smith has also seen Junior Kenny Jackson push his teammates and could line up in several different positions for THS. The running of Sophomore Zay Lyles will be a key for the Tigers’ offense. It all starts upfront for the Tigers as Javion Ashley, Jaylon Cunningham and Jeremy Arnold should provide plenty of strength in the trenches. Jaylyn Lawson will be returning to the gridiron this fall after several years on the basketball court. At 6’5”, 4.4 speed, and a 79” wingspan, Lawson will garner the attention of the opposing defense as well as college recruiters across the southeast. The special teams look to be in good shape with the strong leg of kicker and punter Jackson Burel.
The Tigers scored points in their opener versus Autaugaville, but only scored again in two other contests. The bright spot was scoring a season high 20 versus Central-Coosa in the closing game of the year.
2021 REWIND
Stadium:
CLASS, REGION: Class 1A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Acardia Garrett 2021 RECORD: 0-9 Talladega County Central Fighting Tigers
After spending the past 8 seasons at Howell’s Cove, Chris Mahand resigned during the off-season to join the staff at Shades Valley. TCC Alum and current basketball coach will now take over the football program as well. Garrett will look to rebuild a program that has struggled over the past few seasons. The Fighting Tigers have not had a winning season since 2017 and have gone 5-33 since that season. Garrett will have an experienced team this fall. Only one Senior, TaKendrick Tuck, graduated in May.
KEY LOSSES
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Juniors Jhovi Cole and Rickey Gooden-Swain should have breakout seasons as well. Cole will double up as Quarterback and Safety while GoodenSwain will be the leader on the offensive line and play some Linebacker as well.
2022 SEASON The Tigers will find many familiar foes in Class 1A Region 6. Five of the 6 region opponents return this fall, with Woodland moving to Class 2A. Spring Garden drops to Class 1A and will replace the Bobcats in the region. “Spring Garden is such a solid and tough team yearin and year-out. We know the type of program that they have and they will be loaded again,” said Garrett. However, that’s not the only great team in this region according to Garrett. “Wadley played for the state championship a year ago and may be even better this fall. Winterboro and Ragland made the playoffs last year and will be good again. Victory Christian and Donoho will also be tough. This is definitely not a cupcake region,” said Garrett. The Fighting Tigers will open up at 3A Tarrant on August 19. Alumni
Garrett is looking at a 25-man roster this season. As with most 1A programs across the state, most players will get the start on both sides of the ball. Garrett is expecting Running Back and Linebacker Javari McKenzie to be a great leader for the Tigers.
Field Colors: Royal Blue & Gold 68 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Victory
Colors: Blue & Orange 70 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
CLASS, REGION: Class 1A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Bruce Breland 2021 RECORD: 3-7 Christian Lions 2021 REWIND Victory Christian stood at 3-3 after the first six weeks of the 2021, with one of those losses a forfeit to Horseshoe Bend. The Lions were in the playoff hunt until dropping the final four outings of the season. “We were a better team than we showed down the stretch,” said Breland, “we had a real shot at making the playoffs but just couldn’t finish.”
Stadium: Richard
KEY LOSSES Miles Martin was considered a “coach on the field” by Breland. Martin made sure of alignments and on the field adjustments as a Free Safety and Wide Receiver. The Lions will also be without the offensive production of Tailback Riley Meadows who doubled as an Outside Linebacker.
PLAYERS TO WATCH Senior Drew Nibblet is the spokesperson for the offensive line and possibly the entire team. “He never stops talking,” says teammate Cam Cheatwood, “There’s never a quiet minute if Drew is anywhere around.” Breland relies on Nibblet’s passion and expects him to be the vocal leader for the Lions. Cheatwood is another leader entering his 3rd season as a starter at Fullback and Linebacker. Connor Denson has been a mainstay on the offensive line and will return at Left Tackle. One unknown factor could be the arrival of Caden Dixon at Tailback and Strong Safety. After transferring last year, Dixon sat out the 2021 season but will be counted on heavily in 2022. QB Shepard Sargent will return this fall after transitioning from Tailback to signal-caller a year ago. “He was forced to learn by fire last season,” said Breland, “we expect him to take that next step for us this season.”
2022 SEASON Victory Christian will open the season at home against Woodland. After dropping a heartbreaker to the Bobcats last season that ended their playoff hopes, the Lions have had this date circled throughout the offseason. “Our region just seems to get stronger every year. Wadley played for it all last year and have plenty of talent coming back. Spring Garden was really successful in Class 2A and they’ll be tough in 1A as well,” said Breland. Adams Stadium
Colors: Black & White
PLAYERS TO WATCH
It all starts upfront for the Pan thers’ offense and Smith has the luxury of experience in the middle. Austin Smith is entering his 3rd season as the starter at Center and Coach Smith refers to the Senior as “a solid football player”. Imariyn Jenkins will be counted on this season at Guard and Defensive End and has been a great leader this off-season. The Wellborn rushing attack appears to be in good hands with Xavier Parker and Omarion Curry. Grayson Johnson gets the nod at Quarterback and has improved tremendously this off-season.
2022 SEASON As a result of re-classification, Wellborn will be heading south this football season. The Pan thers along with Weaver and Saks will join Class 3A Region 4. Those three will join Beulah, Childersburg, Dadeville and Randolph County to form quite a competitive region. “We came out of a tough region and went right into another tough region,” Smith said. The 2022 campaign will open up with a couple of non-region opponents from Calhoun County. The Anniston Bulldogs will visit “The Hill” on August 19th before the Panthers go to Ohatchee a week later. Other non-region opponents include Talladega and Cleburne County. The Panthers will visit L.E. Bell Field in Heflin for the first time since 2005 in the final week of the regular season.
KEY LOSSES
Running Back Xavier Parker and Quarterback Grayson Johnson
2021 REWIND After opening the season 0-3, the Panthers reeled off 5 straight wins. Wellborn closed out the regular season with a loss to eventual 3A State Champion Piedmont and Fyffe in round one of the playoffs.
The graduation of Bo Neely is the equivalent of replacing several starters for Coach Smith. Neely lined up all over the field spending time at Running Back, Quarterback, Kick Returner, Kicker and on the defensive side as well. Offensive Lineman and Middle Linebacker Braden Dempsey provided incredible leadership for the 2021 Panthers and has left another void to fill. “Every Senior was huge for us last year,” said Smith, “Kev in Clark really worked hard at Linebacker and Fullback. Brady Johnson just made everyone around him better.”
Panthers
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Jeff Smith 2021 RECORD: Walter Wellborn
Stadium: Wellborn Stadium
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 71
PLAYERS TO WATCH The Bearcats return a number of two-way players and returning starters including seniors running back Payton Martin, center Brent Parks, and receiver Jeffrey Miles. Sophomore Kaden Goodson looks to be the Weaver signal caller in 2022. Other players to watch include senior outside linebacker Carson Cason, sophomore receiver Keyshawn Allen, and junior inside linebacker Richard Knowlton. 2022 SEASON Weaver returns 7 starters on both offense and defense with 9 seniors and 29 total players on the roster. Coach Atchley states that the sophomore class is large and this team is very athletic and gritty. Atchley believes the state championship success in wrestling let the Weaver athletes know they can win and that many of those athletes are now playing football. The Bearcats had a good showing this summer at the Gadsden City 7 on 7, playing to within a touchdown of much larger schools. Atchley puts Saks, Wellborn, and Dadeville at the top of his new region.
CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Gary Atchley
KEY LOSSES Weaver lost 10 seniors from the ’21 team, but only three starters on each side of the ball.
Stadium: Bill Bryan Stadium Colors: Red, Black & Gray
2021 REWIND Weaver broke a 22-game losing streak in week two of the season with a big 20-7 home win over rival Glencoe. Weaver could not find another win the rest of the way playing in the toughest 3A region in the state.
2021 RECORD: 1-9
Weaver Bearcats
72 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Wide Receiver Hugh Wendell CLASS, REGION: Class 3A, Region 6 HEAD COACH: Drew Noles 2021 RECORD: 4-6 Westbrook Warriors 2021 REWIND After an opening win over Coosa Christian, Westbrook dropped 6 of the next 7. The Warriors won their last two to finish 4-6.
Among the many key returnees are quarterback Mason Coley (5’10, 175 senior), wider receiver Hugh Wendell, fullback and linebacker C.J. Townsel (6’0, 210), and running back Carmichael Catling (5’9, 170 senior). Catling is already the all-time leading rusher in school history with still a full season left to play. 2022 SEASON Westbrook returns 10 starters on offense and 6 on defense. The overall numbers are high as well with 15 seniors and 64 players on the varsity team. In addition, there are about 100 players in the program in grades 7-12. Lots of changes to the infrastructure at WCS with the addition of turf to the playing surface and the conversion of the weight room to a conference/meeting center. The concession stands and both press boxes have been redone, and there will be a new weight room and fieldhouse built at the conclusion of the 2022 season. Westbrook will play at the Class 3A level for the first time in school history, moving into a region with Piedmont, Geraldine, Sylvania, Plainview, Ohatchee, and Etowah county rivals Glencoe and Hokes Bluff. Jack Osborn Stadium Red & White
Stadium:
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Colors:
74 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
KEY LOSSES The losses from 2021 are minimal in Rainbow City. The Warriors only lost 1 starter on offense and 5 on defense. Many starters and many players that received lots of playing time return for 2022
Woodland will have to replace experience all over the field, as they lose 13 seniors who contributed in huge ways to the team. Those key losses include two all-state selections in RB/ LB Parker Woodham and OL/DL Calen Houston. Woodland will also look to replace OL/DL Eli Rollins, OL/DL Austin Champion, OL/DL Logan Barrett, and QB Jackson Lovvorn.
2022 SEASON: Youth will be the biggest hill that Woodland will have to climb this season, but first-year head coach Joel Schrenk says that his players’ work ethic will ultimately get them to where they want to be.
The Bobcats reached the postseason as the No. 4 seed from 1A Region 5. They ended the season in the quarterfinals, losing to inter-county rival Wadley. The third-round finish was the deepest playoff run that the Bobcats had since the 2014 season.
The Bobcats won just three games last season, but were able to sneak into the playoffs. Once there, Woodland upset a Cedar Bluff team that had been in and out of the top 10 all season on the road, 28-20, in the first round. The Bobcats followed that upset win by traveling to Winston County to face Meek in round two. In a tight game throughout, a late touchdown reception by Tate Bradford pushed Woodland to yet another upset victory, 21-14.
Woodland Bobcats
2021 REWIND
KEY LOSSES
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Many positions will have new faces, but the one constant will be OL/DL Blu Herren. Herren has been a staple on both sides of the line over the last three seasons and will be an asset to a young group that will need leadership. Cade Cross is also a name to watch on both lines. At the skill positions, junior Callen Gay takes over at quarterback. The left-hander was used in five games last season at quarterback but saw most of his action at wide receiver in special packages. At running back, Christopher Butler and David Noles are set to take over as ball carriers, replacing Parker Woodham, who rushed for 3,361 yards and 41 touchdowns in his career at Woodland. As is customary in 2A football, the before-mentioned players will also be impact players on defense.
Stadium: Sewell Field Colors: Orange & Navy
2021 RECORD: 5-8
www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 77
CLASS, REGION: Class 2A, Region 4 HEAD COACH: Joel Schrenk
2021 RECAP
Thursday, August 18th • St. Clair County at Ashville • B.B. Comer at Dadeville • Geraldine at Coosa Christian • Springville at Etowah • Sand Rock at Spring Garden Friday, August 19th • Anniston at Walter Wellborn • Winterboro at Cedar Bluff • Cherokee County at Model, GA • Munford at Childersburg • Cleburne County at Mt. Zion, GA • Donoho at Weaver • Carrollton, GA at Gadsden City • Asbury at Gaston • West End at Gaylesville • Boaz at Jacksonville • Jacksonville Christian at Success Unlimited • Talladega at Lincoln • Munford at Childersburg • Ohatchee at Saks • McAdory at Oxford • Moody at Pell City • Ragland at Vincent • Ranburne at White Plains • Guntersville at Southside • Benjamin Russell at Sylacauga • Talladega County Central at Tarrant • Woodland at Victory Christian • Westbrook Christian at Pope St. John II Catholic Thursday, August 25th • Sand Rock at Cedar Bluff • Southside at Hokes Bluff Friday, August 26th • Jacksonville at Alexandria • Villa Rica, GA at Anniston • Lincoln at Ashville • Benjamin Russell at CentralClay County • Piedmont at Cherokee County • Childersburg at B.B. Comer • Northside at Cleburne County • Spring Garden at Coosa Christian • Donoho at Pleasant Valley • Etowah at Fort Payne • Fayetteville at Verbena • Gadsden City at HewittTrussville • Gaston at Appalachian • Glencoe at Weaver • New Life at Jacksonville Christian • Walter Wellborn at Ohatchee • Oxford at Huntsville • Pell City at Leeds • Ragland at Southeastern • Wadley at Ranburne • Randolph County at Woodland • Saks at Sylvania • Victory Christian at Whitesburg Christian • Oak Grove at White Plains Friday, September 2nd • Alexandria at Moody • Anniston at Munford • Ashville at Etowah • Cedar Bluff at Woodville • Central-Clay County at Tallassee • Good Hope at Cherokee County • Childersburg at Randolph County • Talladega at Cleburne County • B.B. Comer at Woodland • Gaylesville at Coosa Christian • Ragland at Donoho • Ranburne at Fayetteville • Buckhorn at Gadsden City • Southeastern at Gaston • Hokes Bluff at Glencoe • Handley at Jacksonville • Jacksonville Christian at Cornerstone • Lincoln at Southside • Ohatchee at Westbrook Christian • Shades Valley at Oxford • Pell City at Clay-Chalkville • Sylvania at Piedmont • Pleasant Valley at West End • Beulah at Saks • Pisgah at Sand Rock • Wadley at Spring Garden • Sylacauga at Elmore County • Victory Christian at Talladega County Central • Dadeville at Weaver week by week schedules 78 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Thursday, September 8th • Valley at Sylacauga Friday, September 9th • Alexandria at Lincoln • Jacksonville at Anniston • Hanceville at Ashville • Gaylesville at Cedar Bluff • Elmore County at Central-Clay County • Cherokee County at Oneonta • Weaver at Childersburg • Cleburne County at Moody • Coosa Christian at Decatur Heritage • Donoho at Wadley • Etowah at Fultondale • Fayetteville at Vincent • Gadsden City at Fort Payne • Westbrook Christian at Glencoe • Geraldine at Hokes Bluff • Tabernacle at Jacksonville Christian • Munford at Talladega • Ohatchee at Sylvania • Oxford at Huffman • Pell City at Center Point • Plainview at Piedmont • Holly Pond at Pleasant Valley • Ragland at Randolph County • Saks at Dadeville • Sand Rock at Section • Southside at Springville • Spring Garden at Victory Christian • Ranburne at B.B. Comer • Talladega County Central at Winterboro • Walter Wellborn at Beulah • White Plains at Handley • Thorsby at Woodland Friday, September 16th • Springville at Alexandria • Anniston at White Plains • Decatur Heritage at Cedar Bluff • Central-Clay County at Handley • Cherokee County at Hanceville • Childersburg at Saks • Cleburne County at Munford • B.B. Comer at Vincent • Valley Head at Coosa Christian • Victory Christian at Donoho • Good Hope at Etowah • Fayetteville at Isabella • Hartselle at Gadsden City • Gaston at West End • Gaylesville at Appalachian • Glencoe at Plainview • Hokes Bluff at Westbrook Christian • Talladega at Jacksonville www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 79
Friday, September 16th Ct’d • Jacksonville Christian at Tuscaloosa Christian • Moody at Lincoln • Piedmont at Ohatchee • Pinson Valley at Oxford • Pleasant Valley at Cleveland • Wadley at Ragland • Woodland at Ranburne • Randolph County at Weaver • Sand Rock at Collinsville • St. Clair County at Southside • Winterboro at Spring Garden • Sylacauga at Trinity Presbyterian • Dadeville at Walter Wellborn Thursday, September 22nd • Anniston at Piedmont Friday, September 23rd • Alexandria at Central-Clay County • East Central Christian at Jacksonville Christian • Ashville at Hayden • Spring Garden at Cedar Bluff • Munford at Cherokee County • Vincent at Childersburg • B.B. Comer at Saks • Coosa Christian at Gatlinburg-Pittman, TN • Horseshoe Bend at Fayetteville • Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa at Gadsden City • Collinsville at Gaston • Gaylesville at Victory Christian • Holly Pond at Glencoe • White Plains at Hokes Bluff • Ohatchee at Jacksonville • Hartselle at Oxford • Eufaula at Pell City • Pleasant Valley at Ragland • Randolph County at Wadley • West End at Sand Rock • Southside at Boaz • Leeds at Sylacauga • Talladega at Walter Wellborn • Talladega County Central at Sumiton Christian • Weaver at Asbury • Westbrook Christian at Section • Oakman at Winterboro Thursday, September 29th • Thorsby at Fayetteville • Lincoln at Munford Friday, September 30th • Alexandria at St. Clair County • Handley at Anniston • Fultondale at Ashville • Cedar Bluff at Valley Head • Central-Clay County at Valley • Walter Wellborn at Childersburg • Jacksonville at Cleburne County • Isabella at B.B. Comer • Donoho at Winterboro • Etowah at Oneonta • Gadsden City at Hazel Green • Holly Pond at Gaston • Woodville at Gaylesville • Glencoe at Sylvania • Plainview at Hokes Bluff • Ohatchee at Geraldine • Oxford at Pell City • Piedmont at Westbrook Christian • Locust Fork at Pleasant Valley • Ragland at Victory Christian • Vincent at Ranburne • Saks at Randolph County • North Sand Mountain at Sand Rock • Southside at Leeds • Spring Garden at Talladega County Central • Sylacauga at Beauregard • White Plains at Talladega • Woodland at Central-Coosa Thursday, October 6th • Talladega County Central at Donoho Friday, October 7th • Leeds at Alexandria • Good Hope at Ashville • Coosa Christian at Cedar Bluff • Central-Clay County at Sylacauga • Cherokee County at Fultondale • Childersburg at Beulah • Cleburne County at White Plains • B.B. Comer at Thorsby • Hanceville at Etowah • Fayetteville at Central-Coosa • Gadsden City at Mae Jemison • Gaston at Cleveland • Piedmont at Glencoe • Hokes Bluff at Ohatchee • Munford at Jacksonville • Russell Christian, MS at Jacksonville Christian • Lincoln at Springville • Pell City at Shades Valley • Spring Garden at Pleasant Valley • Winterboro at Ragland • Randolph County at Walter Wellborn • Weaver at Saks • Fyffe at Sand Rock • Talladega at Handley • Westbrook Christian at Geraldine • Vincent at Woodland week by week schedules 80 | High School Football Alabama The Magazine www.highschoolfootballalabama.com
Friday, October 14th • Southside at Alexandria • Anniston at Talladega • Ashville at Oneonta • Beauregard at Central-Clay County • Etowah at Cherokee County • Childersburg at Beulah • Handley at Cleburne County • Central-Coosa at B.B. Comer • Appalachian at Coosa Christian • Donoho at Spring Garden • Fayetteville at Woodland • R.E. Lee-Huntsville at Gadsden City • Gaston at Locust Fork • Decatur Heritage at Gaylesville • Ohatchee at Glencoe • Hokes Bluff at Sylvania • Jacksonville Christian at Victory Christian, MS • St. Clair County at Lincoln • White Plains at Munford • Oxford at Clay-Chalkville • Pell City at Huffman • Geraldine at Piedmont • Southeastern at Pleasant Valley • Ragland at Talladega County Central • Ranburne at Thorsby • Beulah at Randolph County • Sand Rock at Ider • Sylacauga at Tallassee • Walter Wellborn at Weaver • Plainview at Westbrook Christian • Wadley at Winterboro Friday, October 21st • Alexandria at Talladega • Cleburne County at Anniston • Ashville at Cherokee County • Cedar Bluff at Appalachian • Central-Clay County at Russell County • B.B. Comer at Fayetteville • Coosa Christian at Woodville • Cullman at Etowah • Gadsden City at Calera • Pleasant Valley at Gaston • Valley Head at Gaylesville • Glencoe at Geraldine • Piedmont at Hokes Bluff • Jacksonville at White Plains • Lincoln at Leeds • Munford at Handley • Plainview at Ohatchee • Oxford at Center Point • Pinson Valley at Pell City • Spring Garden at Ragland • Central-Coosa at Ranburne • Randolph County at Dadeville • Saks at Walter Wellborn • Whitesburg Christian at Sand Rock • Moody at Southside • Talladega County Central at Wadley • Winterboro at Victory Christian • Weaver at Beulah • Westbrook Christian at Sylvania • Woodland at Isabella Friday, October 28th • Ashville at Munford • Cedar Bluff at Donoho • Wetumpka at Central-Clay County • Cherokee County at Fort Payne • Winterboro at Childersburg • Walter Wellborn at Cleburne County • Coosa Christian at Victory Christian • Etowah at Southside • Fayetteville at Holy Spirit Catholic • Gaston at Brindlee Mountain • Gaylesville at Talladega County Central • Glencoe at West End • Hokes Bluff at Sardis • Jacksonville at Oxford • Beauregard at Lincoln • Springville at Pell City • Piedmont at Sylacauga • Pleasant Valley at Weaver • Ranburne at Randolph County • Saks at Talladega • White Plains at Westbrook Christian • Woodland at Wadley www.highschoolfootballalabama.com High School Football Alabama The Magazine | 81
Are you an outdoor enthusiast or do you enjoy great food, entertainment, and lodgings? Calhoun County has adventures for you and your family! Come explore our natural attractions from kayaking, biking, hiking, golfing, sports complexes, state parks, historical sites, museums and MORE! Calhoun County is a haven complete with award winning restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, performing arts, and comfortable accommodations. The Calhoun County Commission would like to personally invite you to plan your next adventure with us. EAT STAY PLAY and VISIT Calhoun County, AL District 1 FredCommissionerWilson District 2 DannyCommissionerShears District 3 CarolynCommissionerHenderson District 4 JDCommissionerHess District 5 LeeCommissionerPatterson CALHOUN COUNTY COMMISSION