Shelby County Football 2025

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MAKING A STATEMENT

Shelby County’s Cooper Pennington among local stars seeking success

Breaking down all 14 teams

Chelsea’s Porter Schott balances two-sport success

PRIDE OF THE LIONS

Garrett Witherington ready to lead Briarwood into new year

INTO THE DEN Season preview, breakdown, roster and more HUNTING FOR GLORY Lions prepare for season with high expectations

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READY TO FLY

Calera sets sights on success with Camarien Yow

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CHASING SUCCESS

Chase Malone leads Chelsea’s returning core

A PERFECT SCHOTT Porter Schott balances success in two sports

ALIVE IN THE HIVE Season preview, breakdown, roster and more

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Helena gears up for another playoff push

Nate Ferguson guides Huskies into new season

and more

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THE

EAGLES’ NEST Season preview, breakdown, roster and more REACHING THE

SUMMIT

Eagles prep for playoff push with veteran core

SOARING EAGLES

Oak Mountain ready to make noise behind Marty Myricks

NEW DAY, SAME WAY

Joe Hampton leads new-look Pelham as Ross Newton era begins

BROTHERS IN ARMS Griffin Marshall, William Murphy share strong bond

PANTHERS ON THE PROWL Season preview, breakdown, roster and more

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Shelby County’s Cooper Pennington cements his own athletic legacy

INTO THE WILD Season preview, breakdown, roster and more CATS ON THE CHASE Wildcats seniors seek another playoff trip

Shelby County Edition

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THE BATTLE BEGINS Season preview, breakdown, roster and more

READY FOR WAR Warriors aim to continue historic dynasty

WATCH

THRONE Cam Pritchett and Thompson prepare for state title defense

Shelby County’s Cooper Pennington emerges from family’s shadow to

Chelsea’s Porter Schott balances football with state champion wrestling career

STAFF

EDITORIAL

Michaela Bankston

Dave Domescik

Daniel Locke

Anna Grace Moore

Tyler Raley

Andrew Simonson

Noah Wortham

PRODUCTION

Sydney Allen

Jamie Dawkins

Rowan Futrell

Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Noah Brakefield

Evann Campbell

Octavia Campbell

Rachel Henderson

Rhett McCreight

Tori Smith

Viridiana Romero

ADMINISTRATIVE

Anna Marie Cleckler

Alec Etheredge

Stacey Meadows

Mary Jo Eskridge

Lauren Morris

Kayla Reeves

Leslie Reeves

Brittany Schofield

SCNI

Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc.

This is a publication of Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. P.O. Box 947 115 North Main Street Columbiana, AL 35051 phone: 205.669.3131 advertise@shelbycountyreporter.com

AUGUST 29, 2020 WILL LIKELY LIVE ON IN MY MEMORY FOREVER.

It wasn’t my first high school football game. That was eight years prior at my alma mater in Charlotte, North Carolina. It also wasn’t the first game I covered for the Shelby County Reporter. That was a Briarwood at Fort Payne game I covered remotely from the Homewood Hilton Garden Inn.

However, it was the first time I covered a football game in-person, and my eyes opened wide to a whole new world.

cheerleaders who dedicate countless hours during the summer heat to provide the atmosphere that gets players, coaches, fans and local journalists in the zone.

All of those people make up the community that serve as the lifeblood of every football program, from the biggest Class 7A schools to the smallest AISA and ACSC schools.

As I sat in the corner room of the Papa McCombs Stadium press box, I heard the sound of a high school marching band for the first time, I saw a ground-and-pound battle between two rivals in Shelby County and Montevallo, and most importantly, I saw two communities come out in force in the middle of a global pandemic to celebrate their town pride and the game that binds them.

At its core, football is just a game. But I quickly learned that down here, it stands for so much more.

It’s the kids on the field suiting up for their school that they grew up cheering for in the stands, now in turn inspiring the next generation of stars to chase their dreams.

It’s the parents and teachers who volunteer their time to pour into the team and support it, from the assistant coaches to the concessions stands workers to the team moms providing snacks to the PA announcers, statisticians and broadcast crews in the press box.

It’s the old-timers who may have graduated decades ago but still bleed their school’s colors and wouldn’t miss a home game for the world.

It’s the marching bands and

This magazine is our annual chance to celebrate those communities while also preparing them for what they can expect the next time they support their local team.

Each team has exciting players who you will learn about as you dive into these pages. In addition, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on a select few of them, including Shelby County’s Cooper Pennington as he carries on the family legacy, Chelsea’s Porter Schott as he balances success on the gridiron and wrestling mat, Helena’s Nate Ferguson as he leads the Huskies on and off the field and Pelham’s William Murphy and Griffin Marshall and their unique bond.

I couldn’t thank my amazing editorial team of Alec Etheredge, Tyler Raley, Dave Domescik and Daniel Locke enough for their hours of work bringing this magazine to life. I’m confident that our SCR team is the best in the state, and we’ll have boots on the ground across the county each week as we bring you the best action.

That includes me, as on August 29, 2025, I’ll be on the sideline for Week 2 action five years to the date from my first game. As I prepare for year six covering Shelby County football, I’m grateful to the communities that make this job so enjoyable, and I’m ready for more moments that will live on in my memory forever.

Andrew Simonson, Sports Editor Andrew.Simonson@ShelbyCountyReporter.com

Penning his own story

Shelby County’s Cooper Pennington steps out from family’s shadow to create his legacy

Written by ANDREW SIMONSON | Photos by JEREMY RAINES AND FILE

CCooper Pennington has been around greatness his entire life. His father Jeremy, his uncle Spencer and his older brother JT were all Division I athletes who also excelled in high school.

While that decorated lineage gave him good genes, it also gave him great expectations from the outside world, especially as he began playing on varsity with his brother’s former teammates.

“Ever since I was in middle school, it’s, ‘JT Pennington got all these offers, three-star recruit to come out of Shelby County. It hadn’t been done in a long time.’ It was very high pressure to come into it, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Pennington said. “Yes, JT was awesome, but I’m my own story. So, it was cool for me to build on that and try to build off that and come to where I am today.”

Fast forward to today, and Pennington is realizing his greatness both on and off the field. He’s a multitime All-County player in both football and baseball,

led the Wildcats to multiple playoff appearances in both sports and is freshly committed to Mercer to play Division I college football.

Now, Pennington has one last chance to write his own name into Shelby County High School lore and help his teams reach new heights.

“He is the best football player I’ve ever coached,” Shelby County head coach Zeb Ellison said. “And I don’t really know really one word or two words that could describe him. He’s loyal. He’s our leader. He’s everything that you want in a football player.”

GROWING UP ON THE GRIDIRON

Pennington bled crimson long before he donned Shelby County’s red uniform.

His father Jeremy started at offensive lineman for the Crimson Tide from 1993-96 after winning Alabama Gatorade Player of the Year at Vernon. His

uncle Spencer played baseball at Alabama from 2002-06 and also played 19 games at quarterback before choosing baseball full-time. Before then, he was an All-State baseball player for Fayette County and turned down an offer out of high school to play for the Chicago Cubs organization.

That athletic lineage went down to both Cooper and his older brother JT. Both brothers played football and baseball like their uncle all the way through high school, with Cooper starting in baseball at age six and beginning his football career a few years later in fourth grade.

As Cooper began playing sports at Columbiana Middle, JT made his name on the field with Shelby County in both sports. He led the Wildcats to the football playoffs in 2020 as an offensive lineman, his father’s position, and then reached the baseball quarterfinals in 2021 while leading the county in batting average. He made the All-County First Team in both football and baseball in 2021 to earn Shelby County Male Athlete of the Year.

JT decided to pursue football in college and signed with Jacksonville State before transferring to Kennesaw State in 2023. He started 10 games for the Owls in 2024 as a redshirt junior and is a preseason All-Conference Second Team selection in Conference USA going into his redshirt senior year.

With so many athletes throughout the family, the Penningtons view sports as their common bond.

“One of our main things is every single time it comes to a family reunion, we always talk about

favorite sports memories,” Pennington said. “And I always love hearing their all-time, sports memories. And especially my brothers, they’re pretty funny.”

However, sports are more than just a game for Pennington.

He saw how sports benefitted his father and brother and helped them grow off the field. He strives to emulate them in everything they do.

“Sports in itself for my family hasn’t been just helping pay for college and being successful, it’s also helped us become better leaders,” Pennington said.

“And that’s what I really saw from my dad is sports helped him and become a man that I’ve looked up to my whole life. And sports has helped my brother, especially these past few years, growing into a leader for his team, Kennesaw State. So I always really aspired to be like them, and that’s what I really wanted to do in sports.”

The Penningtons also stress academic success, and he works diligently to excel in the classroom so he can have time to compete in both sports.

Ellison said his family’s athletic background is apparant because of how hard they work. He claims the work that Pennington puts in off the field stems from his desire to be the best, and that competitive nature comes directly from his parents since they know what it takes to play at the highest level of college football.

“They are an athletic family. And not everyone understands that,” Ellison said. “It’s different when their parents grow up and that football is what they’ve lived. And they understand the sacrifices and they understand the commitment in order to be great. And they support him, they push him. They hold him accountable. They do everything that you’re supposed to do, and that’s where a lot of that comes from, the discipline, because without discipline, you’re not going to be a good player.”

LEADING THE PACK

Pennington needed that discipline early on when he joined both varsity teams as an eighth grader. Ellison recalls that Pennington struggled early on in his varsity football career, but he overcame difficulties that season to shine every year after that.

On the football field, Pennington has made the All-County Team as a linebacker each season since his freshman year, first as an Honorable Mention in 2022, then as a Second Team pick in 2023 and finally as a First Team selection in 2024.

His junior season saw him secure 96 tackles, including 83 solo tackles and 14 tackles for loss. He also played all three ways and earned 43 pancake

blocks as a tight end while also featuring as a punter.

On the diamond, Pennington has grown into an elite two-way player, earning a 1.81 ERA and 79 strikeouts as a pitcher while batting .355 as a first baseman in 2025. He also earned an All-County First Team selection with those numbers, following in JT’s footsteps as a two-sport First Team pick.

Pennington said his drive to work hard comes from living up to expectations from his family and coaches. He wants to do all he can to make sure he gives his all for whatever team he’s on.

“I’m more of a people-pleaser at heart,” Pennington said. “I love to please my superiors, so I love to please coaches. I would do anything it takes to please coach Ellison or (baseball coach Cory) Hamrick. And that want to be the best I possibly could be for them and also my teammates was really what drove me.”

One of those things his coaches asked him to do for the team’s sake was become a bigger leader since

many of the key contributors on the football team were his age or younger.

Pennington said it wasn’t always easy to find his voice in the locker room, especially early on when many of his older teammates played with JT and mainly saw him as JT’s brother first.

However, as years went on, he began letting his work show on the field, and his results demanded respect from his younger teammates.

“He was always a leader on the field, vbut he’s become the leader in the locker room the last few years, and he’s really taking control there,” Ellison said. “Everyone looks up to him. He’s your alpha dog. He’s the one that’s on command and everyone’s going to follow him. There are not many people that are going to go against him, not because they’re scared of him, it’s just because he leads by example.”

Now going into his fifth season as a varsity player, his status as one of the most experienced players on the team earned him the nickname “Unc,” which is

slang for an older person.

While he’s a little miffed by the nickname, he enjoys being the leader of the team. He believes his years of experience in both sports makes him a valuable resource for younger players.

“I’ve just been playing for so long, and I think that that has helped me become a leader with all the experience,” Pennington said. “I’ve been able to play so many different positions with football and baseball in itself that I’ve been able to give advice to upcoming freshmen and sophomores or just getting to a new position. I really can help them out, and I think that’s what’s really helped me a lot.”

WRITING A NEW CHAPTER

Now, Pennington enters his senior season having accomplished just about everything his brother has. He’s led the baseball team to the playoffs each year that he’s played, and he’s helped the football team reach the postseason three out of the last four years, including last year’s turnaround from 2-9 to 8-3

where the Wildcats finished second in Class 5A, Region 3 and hosted a first-round game.

“In a way, I think I lived up to it,” Pennington said of JT’s legacy. “I wish I was as dominant as him, but I would say so. Again, JT was just unbelievable, not just on the football field. He was an unbelievable brother, and he showed me the reins really early.”

However, when you ask Pennington about his legacy, he doesn’t go to athletics first.

Even though sports run through his blood and have made him the young man he is today, he wants his character to shine brighter than any athletic accomplishment he has ever achieved.

“I hope I was known more than just an athlete,” Pennington said. “I hope I was known as a great guy who you can come up and talk to. I hope people would see me as a Christian, for one, that will show love. I really just don’t want to be known as the really good athlete. I want to be known as the guy that you can come up and talk to and ask for help on anything, any question, in any circumstance.”

To him, that’s the true definition of greatness.

Schott to the heart

Chelsea’s Porter Schott balances leadership role as linebacker with state champion wrestling career

Written by ANDREW SIMONSON | Photos by DAWN HARRISON AND FILE

SStanding underneath the bright lights of the Propst Arena at the Von Braun Center this past February, Porter Schott had accomplished what few had done.

Schott received his blue map trophy and a giant bracket, rewards for winning the Class 6A boys wrestling state championship in the 215-pound division. He is just the second man hailing from Chelsea to win wrestling gold at the state finals.

While the senior will seek to defend his crown this coming winter, he has other matters to attend to before then. When he’s not wrestling, Schott is one of the top linebackers in Shelby County, leading the Chelsea Hornets defense during its recent resurgence.

“I attribute pretty much all of it to that,” Schott said of wrestling. “I don’t think I’d be half the football player I am without it.”

PUT A PIN IN IT

Schott started wrestling years before he played football, getting his start on the mat as a preschooler. His family is from Illinois, which is right in the sport’s Rust Belt hotbed, so he followed in their footsteps and wrestled.

It proved to be a wise move. Since Schott stuck with wrestling beyond his youth and joined the middle school team, he had a leg up on the newcomers who didn’t have youth experience.

“A lot of those kids start early and they’re good, but a lot of them don’t stick with it,” Schott said. “And then in middle school, a lot of new kids are trying it out, so I’ve already had six, seven years of experience and they’re brand new. And then coming into high school, I already have multiple years of experience on top of them, so then I’ve noticed that I’m winning a lot more matches as I’ve gotten older

through high school and middle school.”

He hit a new high mark in his wrestling career during the 2024-25 season. While competing in the 215-pound division, he finished with a 43-1 record.

That included a 5-0 run at the state championship, capped off by a razor-tight 5-4 decision over Hartselle’s Jameson Falaciani in the finals to win the Class 6A boys 215-pound state championship after two years of competing at Class 7A.

Schott has played football alongside wrestling since sixth grade and lettered in both at Chelsea. Wrestlers have long found success in football, namely Ray Lewis and Jim Thorpe. That’s because there are many similarities between the two sports.

“It makes tackling a lot easier,” Schott said of wrestling. “Being able to take someone down and making a form tackle, the similarities are there.”

Schott goes straight from football season into wrestling for Chelsea and then has just a couple of

months after that season ends in February before spring football practices begin. He also takes academics seriously and already has a 28 on the ACT while shooting for a higher score.

With such a full schedule, Schott opts to compartmentalize each sport into its own season.

“I try to take it one sport at a time. It’s kind of different from other people,” Schott said. “When it’s wrestling season, it’s wrestling season. When it’s football season, it’s football season. I don’t really cross it over. I try to focus on one at a time, get better at each individually.”

With skills carrying over between sports, that means he continues to work on skills like takedowns while tackling dummies at football practice.

Chelsea head football coach Todd Cassity believes that the extra work that Schott puts in across both sports makes him a more complete athlete.

“He’s just very self-motivated,” Cassity said. “He

works his rear end off all the time. He’s a kid that just he never gives up. I think you can see that through the wrestling this year, and goes into the weight room and also goes on the football field. They sort of all work together.

GETTING IN LINE

Schott began his career along the defensive line, using his grappling background to win duels up front and get into the backfield.

However, Cassity and defensive coordinator Scott Lowery changed things up going into his junior year. They moved Schott back to middle linebacker, where his closing speed and football IQ could shine.

“We moved him to linebacker beginning of last year, and he’s just really flourished,” Cassity said. “He was really good down for us as well. But, we felt like with his speed, his knowledge of the game, his

leadership, he was a little bit better fit for us at linebacker.”

The move paid immediate dividends. Schott finished his junior year with 118 tackles, including 65 solo tackles, 16 tackles for loss and seven sacks. He also came up big with a couple of forced fumbles.

As a result, Schott secured All-County Second Team honors for himself and helped Chelsea clinch its first playoff berth since 2021.

Schott firmly believes the change in position helped unlock a new level of his game on the field. He enjoys taking on additional responsibility on and off the field as one of the team’s primary tacklers.

“I think it’s helped me growing a lot as a player, definitely allowed me to make a lot more tackles to be in the action a lot more, to be more involved with our coaches, to ask more questions,” Schott said.

Middle linebackers are seen as the quarterbacks of the defense, responsible for reading opposing

offenses, getting play calls off and adjusting teammates’ positioning on the fly thanks to their central position on the field.

“That moving of positions kind of put a lot of a leadership on top of me that I had to do because as a middle linebacker, you kind of have to control the whole defense and lead and how the defense performs is how I perform, and vice versa,” Schott said.

However, Schott welcomed the leadership role. While he admitted it wasn’t a seamless transition, he credits his skillset and his teammates for helping him grow into the leader of the defense.

“There was a little bit of adjustment just because I’ve never really been in a position like that, but I’ve always kind of liked to think of myself as a natural leader, and I’ve always gotten along all our guys,” Schott said. “We’re all good buddies. And it’s kind of a leadership position where everyone leads, so they make it pretty easy on me.”

To the coaches, Schott’s work ethic and influence make him one of their most valuable players.

“He’s one of the best,” Cassity said of Schott. “He’s one of those that, definitely top of the line, 1 percent guy that I’ve coached over the years. He never says a negative word. Never hear him have any confrontation. Everybody wants to be like Porter.”

THE FINAL ROUND

Now, Schott enters his senior season ready to leave a mark on Chelsea. While he still has a state championship to defend on the wrestling mat, his sole focus right now is on the football field.

He has his eyes set on the record books, specifically the program’s all-time tackle record.

As one of the leaders of the team though, his focus isn’t solely on himself. Because of the returning talent around him, he has his eyes set on doing what no Chelsea team has done in the past 20 years–win the region.

“As a team goal, I’d like to be top in the region, possibly even win the region and have a good seeding going into the playoffs so we can have a good, fulfilling season,” Schott said.

He doesn’t just want to be remembered for his success on the gridiron or on the mat, good as they both are. He wants to be someone worth remembering simply for how he carried himself.

“I’d like to be remembered as someone that my teammates and my classmates obviously like to be around and have enjoyed to be around, someone that is just a genuine person,” Schott said.

GAMES TO WATCH

The 10 best matchups for the 2025 season

1. SPAIN PARK VS. HOOVER

AUG. 29

The Jags took a big step toward reversing the one-sided series with a thrilling last-second win in 2024, and after CJ Cowley transferred to the Bucs, a heated rivalry got more personal.

3. CHELSEA VS. OAK MOUNTAIN

OCT. 30 (THURSDAY)

Josh Renfroe’s walk-off field goal decided a third-straight one-score game between the two rivals, proving an absence of region stakes doesn’t mean an absence of competitiveness.

2. THOMPSON AT HOOVER

OCT. 17

Last year’s meeting decided the region title as it has in so many years, and after an overtime loss, expect a Thompson team motivated to get one back on its rival.

4. THOMPSON AT GRAYSON (GA)

AUG. 29

After an overtime battle on ESPN last year, the Class 7A state champions travel to Georgia’s reigning 6A champions in a clash of two national powers.

5. SPAIN PARK VS. HELENA

SEPT. 12

The two county sides put on a 28-26 barnburner last year, and this year’s should be just as thrilling as the perennial playoff sides clash in a potential region title game.

6. THOMPSON AT CLAY-CHALKVILLE

SEPT. 26

Since the series resumed in 2022, each battle of Alabama powerhouses has been a one-score game. The Warriors are out for revenge after falling short in overtime in a defensive battle.

7. PELHAM VS. HELENA

OCT. 10

Helena has won each meeting since 2018, but expect the Panthers to fight hard to change that in one of the most intense rivalries in the entire state.

9. VINCENT AT TUSCALOOSA ACADEMY

OCT. 3

This matchup decided the region title last season, and now, Vincent will face a big midseason road test against the reigning Class 2A runners-up.

8. BRIARWOOD AT RAMSAY

SEPT. 4 (THURSDAY AT LEGION FIELD)

The Old Gray Lady will host a battle of 5A title contenders when Briarwood takes its early-season litmus test against last season’s regional champion Ramsay.

10. SHELBY COUNTY AT NORTHSIDE SEPT. 19

Two of the most complete teams in Class 5A, Region 3 will clash in Tuscaloosa after last year’s ground-and-pound shootout saw the Wildcats secure a home playoff game.

BRIARWOOD

LIONS

The Briarwood Christian Lions enter their second season back in Class 5A with high expectations, but they learned last season when expectations go south.

Briarwood struggled out of the gate with an 0-5 start while facing a brutal schedule without some of their key players. Once they hit the back stretch though, they looked like one of the best teams in 5A while blasting a trio of playoff teams in Leeds, Corner and 6A McAdory.

Now, coach Matthew Forester wants his players to start fast and finish strong to reach their full potential. The goal has been to teach situational decision-making and bonus packages to the depth pieces to help safeguard against a fall-off should injuries happen.

However, the top end of talent is as good as it’s ever been with a solid group of experienced, bought-in seniors leading the way and bringing the physicality, leading to another year of optimism on Cahaba Valley Road.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

After Charles Dedmon split time with Brayden Robertson last year, he now has sole control of the reins for year two as a starter. Quarterbacks typically make a big leap going into their second season as a starter as they gain more knowledge of the offense and the game slows down, and Forester has seen that this summer as he’s worked with assistant coach Jay Matthews. He says Dedmon commands the offense better and executes concepts well. Even with Dedmon’s success though, expect the Lions to continue running multiple quarterbacks based on scheme. Jamison Barnes continues to impress as a runner and pushes Dedmon even as a sophomore, while Max Beaumont’s schematic knowledge grows by the day.

RUNNING BACK

The difference between when Luke Reynolds played and when he didn’t was night and day last year. Now that he’s gone, the hope is senior Eli Thompson and junior Jackson Reyer can fill that void. They’re stylistically different, with Thompson being shiftier with better perimeter speed while Reyer is a traditional between-the-tackles back. Forester said Reyer excels at patiently reading blocks to maximize his power. Thompson is the ultimate utility player for the offense

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 5A, Region 5

2024 RECORD 5-5 (3-3 Region 5)

HEAD COACH

Matthew Forester

RECORD 44-25 (Seventh Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Mike Bautista, Lance Coggins, Daniel Forester, Shane Harmon, Tony Johnson, Bobby Kerley, Jay Matthews, Kyle Tatum, Jay Wise, Bob Blake, Johnny Johnson, Derek Irons

LAST REGION TITLE 2019

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2023

Charles Dedmon

as he can play receiver and quarterback as well, the latter of which was his brother Josh Thompson’s position in 2023.

RECEIVER

One of Briarwood’s biggest struggles in recent years has been fielding a true dominant receiver to go with its strong quarterback play, but a pair of experienced seniors might just reverse that trend. Dane Whitehead was one of the top targets as a junior last season, and now, he’s the unquestioned leader of the receiver room. He is built bigger and can pick up blocks on linebackers if needed while playing just about any receiving spot. Tram Walker will play the most though and is a candidate for a breakout season with his quick lateral speed. John Campbell is similarly skilled and already proved his speed on the track, placing third in the outdoor Class 6A 200-meter dash. Conversely, Will Butler is the bigger option at 6-foot-1, 185 pounds. Expect Sam Canale to help the group in spots. Jack Beason will start at tight end after converting well from linebacker two years ago, and the 6-foot-4 Zeke Witt will bring his basketball frame to the position as well as junior Radford Andrews and senior Chris Davis.

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 23: Oak Mountain

Aug. 29: Homewood

Sept. 4: @ Ramsay*#

Sept. 12: Carver-Birmingham*

Sept. 20: @ Wenonah*

Sept. 27: @ Leeds

Oct. 3: Corner*

Oct. 10: @ John Carroll*

Oct. 17: Bye

Oct. 24: Hayden*

Oct. 30: @ McAdory#

*Region game #Thursday game

OFFENSIVE LINE

The offensive line will have two starters back in Carter Fountain and Hank Freeman to continue this group’s recent success under assistant coach Tony Johnson. Fountain is now a threeyear starter, and Freeman looks forward to a healthy senior season after a strong return from injury late last year. Both will start at offensive tackle and bring veteran leadership and a mean streak to the position group. Elsewhere, five more players will battle for the guard and center roles. Two spot starters from last year in Hudson Parker and Austin Johnson will step into bigger roles this season with Moses Caldwell, Ethan Van

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Garrett Witherington, DL

The Lions have a star in their front seven in the Kentucky commit. Capable of playing SEC ball, Briarwood will count on high production from Witherington this season.

Charles Dedmon, QB

Dedmon is heading into his first season as the Lions’ primary signal caller. What he is able to do will go a long way toward determining what kind of year Briarwood has.

Carter Fountain, OL

A three-year starter, Fountain will help set the offensive tone for Briarwood. As one of the most experienced linemen in the county, a lot is expected from him this season.

Brooks Allred, LB

The experienced linebacker will be taking on a different role this season, moving from the inside spot to outside. His athleticism gives him a diverse skillset.

Dane Whitehead, WR

Expected to be to go-to guy for the Lions through the air, Whitehead will aim to provide the Lions with the consistent set of hands they have been missing.

KEY LOSSES

Luke Reynolds, RB

Reynolds made a large difference in the Lions’ ground attack last season, filling his production will be a tall task.

John Paul Harbor, WR

Briarwood will miss Harbor and his high football IQ this season. The passing game will have to adjust to his absence.

Asa Harris, LB

While the Lions still have an experienced set of linebackers at their disposal, but Harris is a loss that will be felt.

Photo by Andrew Simonson

QUICK HITS

IN THE POCKET There will be more change for Briarwood under center this season as Charles Dedmon will be the Lions’ third starting quarterback in as many years. Although Dedmon had his opportunity last season, he split time with Brayden Robertson. The continuity of Dedmon going through the spring and summer as the starter will be beneficial for Briarwood as it has had more time to adjust to his style and he has had more chances to run the offense. While the Lions have not had anyone replicate the talent and consistency of Christopher Vizzina since he left, the bar for Dedmon is high this season.

BOUNCING BACK Missing the playoffs last season was not the result Briarwood wanted, but the last three seasons have not met what the Lions consider to be their standards. Winning only three games in 2022, six in 2023 and five in 2024 show that Briarwood has work to do. Finding a way to respond is imperative for Briarwood this season. With a manageable schedule and a good amount of talent back from last season, finding a way to get back into the playoffs is a reasonable expectation for the Lions.

VETERAN PRESENCE Despite losing some production at key positions, Briarwood’s roster is still packed with talent from top to bottom. Having a veteran group on hand could be beneficial for the Lions, particularly early on in their front-loaded schedule. A slow start plagued Briarwood last season, putting them in a hole early on. If the Lions can lean on their veterans while their younger players figure things out during the grind of the first three weeks of the season, including contests against Oak Mountain, Homewood and Ramsey, they could remain in a position to contend for a playoff spot.

2025 Briarwood Roster

Asselt and Wynn Falkner competing alongside them. A (literal) big name to look out for is Adrien Derico. Not that you’ll have a problem finding him–the sophomore is 6-foot-3, 330 pounds.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Fresh Kentucky commit Garrett Witherington is the star of the defense once again. One of the lone four-year starters in Briarwood history, he’s progressed even more on and off the field. He adopted a new workout program to focus on his explosiveness, and Forester said he’s moving around better than he ever has despite moving up to 285 pounds. His selflessness, hard work ethic and leadership are also apparent to all. Forester will set up the defense around his strengths since Witherington and nose guard Jackson Bunn have so much experience that they can run more complex schemes up front. They’ll base out of a 4-3 with juniors Brooks Robertson, Tucker McGough and Grant Skinner filling out the position group.

LINEBACKER

The Lions have lots of experience back at linebacker between Brooks Allred and Gage Nasworthy. Allred moves to the Sam spot after two years of inside work, and his ability in space will make him valuable against the run and spread. Nasworthy has two seasons of experience at middle linebacker and was tabbed by the former linebacker Forester to have a great year. Grayson Prewitt will slide back from defensive end to the Will linebacker spot, and Ken Azar and

Bradley Aldridge are two juniors who will take on bigger roles this season.

SECONDARY

The secondary is already inexperienced because the top four safeties last year all graduated, and that was before Rocco Valentini went down for the year with a torn ACL. He’ll lend his expertise to a group that Forester believes has lots of depth and potential but needs a simplified scheme to catch up to the front seven. The good news is Sam Canale is back after a standout year last season as a starter. Cooper Johnson and Mark Mataya got some experience last season, and Jake Vandixhorn brings his skills as a center midfielder for the soccer team to close space at safety. He won’t be the only multi-sport athlete on the secondary as Canale has basketball experience while safety Camden Schroeter and cornerback Brandy Aho play baseball. Coleson Gooch will fill out the rotation.

SPECIAL TEAMS

With Garrett Heinemann graduated, Harrison Hebert finally has his shot at punter, and Forester views him as one of the top legs in Birmingham. He has a shot to kick as well but will battle the strong-legged Evan Ball for the job. Tucker McGough will snap for Hebert on punts and it’s between him and Austin Johnson to snap on field goals and extra points. The Lions are still working out returners but Wes Cunningham, Eli Thompson and Tram Walker are some likely names thanks to their athleticism.

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (7-3)

2024 RESULTS

game

The Lions are a popular pick to go deep in the playoffs in Class 5A. Part of that likely is from their historic dominance at this level, but another part is likely from their 5-0 finish to the season. However, the man who largely orchestrated that comeback, Luke Reynolds, is gone, leaving a massive hole in the backfield. That doesn’t mean the offense will be bad by any means as Charles Dedmon takes a leap going into his second year as a starter, Eli Thompson and Jackson Rhyer split the carries and Dane Whitehead leads a receiving core with lots of potential. The task will be to ensure the fall-off isn’t too great in the running game and the passing game lives up to its potential, something that hasn’t always been the case in seasons past. The defense will be there on a Matthew Forester team, even with an inexperienced secondary. The question is if the offense can keep up, especially against a brutal non-region schedule and a tough top end of the region. This is a playoff team regardless, but how they start the season against Ramsay, Carver and Corner will go a long way toward determining how they will finish.

CALERA

EAGLES

Year one of the Scott Rials era brought transformational change to the Calera Eagles. Their hope is year two can be just as transformational.

Scott and Reid Rials turned around an 0-10 team that scored just 92 points on offense and engineered a 3-7 record with a high-flying attack. Flaws still remained, namely a poor turnover ratio and lack of stops on defense, which prevented them from making noise in the playoff chase.

Now, a year of experience for the young defensive players, a new defensive coordinator in Ervin Jackson and weight room gains across the board all give the Eagles hope that they can shore up some of their remaining weaknesses and get back to the playoffs.

Questions still remain about the offense’s experience level, but for the first time in a couple of years, Calera is dreaming again. That in itself is an improvement.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

After a dynamic year from AJ Johnson at quarterback, the Eagles got an immediate answer for their signal caller this season in Montevallo transfer Jordan Ward. While the offensive system itself won’t change much, Ward’s physicality opens more doors for the quarterback run, especially with a veteran offensive line in front of him. His goal over the offseason has been to work on reads to help adjust to the spread offense, but his chemistry with receivers is constantly improving. Expect a newly healthy Drew Majewski to back him up with Kristian Gallups and Parker Currey learning behind them as promising freshmen.

RUNNING BACK

Jordan Henderson fully stepped into the lead back role after sharing the load with a talented back in Demetrius Davis last year. Henderson has the complete package with the ability to run downhill and off the edge, catch balls out of the backfield and even block linebackers downfield. Despite his size at 5-foot-9, 185 pounds, he leans more of a downhill runner, but a hard work ethic and great skillset make up for any physical deficiencies. Camarien Yow is working with the second team with a big freshman

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 6A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

3-7 (2-4 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Scott Rials

RECORD 3-7 (Second Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Reid Rials, Ervin Jackson, Quay Moncrief, Marcus Dowdell, AJ Ward, Wade Hyde, Winchester Shearer, Hugh Pate, Clayton Brannon, Ronnie Richardson Parker, Logan Atkins

LAST REGION TITLE 2008

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2022

class behind them.

RECEIVER

The receiving corps is almost completely different after weapons like KD Young, Cam Hagler and Braxton Brooks graduated. The one returning starter is Elijah Bates, who battled some injuries last year but is explosive when healthy. He’ll handle the slot alongside Haston Hogge, who has great hands and runs routes well, and a newcomer in Amari Wallace who makes up for a lack of size with solid route-running. Out wide, expect Owen Richardson to get space to shine after a big year in JV. Cayden Specks and Darian Hamilton both come over to fill out the position group alongside former JV utility guy Jaiden Stallworth, who will also line up at running back in addition to the slot.

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: @ Northridge

Aug. 29: Central-Tuscaloosa

Sept. 5: Benjamin Russell*

Sept. 12: @ Pelham*

Sept. 19: Chelsea*

Sept. 26: Bye

Oct. 3: Brookwood

Oct. 10: @ Chilton County*

Oct. 17: Spain Park*

Oct. 24: @ Helena*

Oct. 31: @ Stanhope Elmore

*Region game

OFFENSIVE LINE

Experience is once again a big factor for the Eagles offensive line, and Rials will use that to run the ball better than last year and complement the receiving corps. Talented left tackle Jayden Massey, right tackle Josh Stewart and

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jordan Ward, QB Ward transferred from Montevallo, where he started and showed signs of solid arm strength that will now be tested against Class 6A defenses.

Jayden Massey, LT Massey will bring a veteran presence to what is arguably the most important position on the offensive line.

Jaylon Lee, DL

As the one returning member of the Eagles’ defensive line, Lee is expected to lead the defensive front this year.

Kerry Smith, CB

With Carlos Whisenhunt’s status for the 2025 season up in the air, Smith could be filling his spot at the second cornerback position.

Elijah Bates, WR

The lone returning receiver on the Eagles this season, Bates is looking to bounce back from injuries suffered last season and help lead the offense.

KEY DEPARTURES

AJ Johnson, QB

Losing a quarterback is never easy, and Johnson was an All-County-level quarterback with one of the highest all-purpose yard totals in the entire state.

KD Young, WR

With Young having graduated, Calera will have to figure out its new direction in the slot without one of its primary targets.

Demetrius Davis, RB

While Calera’s passing game stole many of the headlines, Davis left his mark as a dynamic running back and an essential part of the Eagles offense.

DJ White, DL

White eventually signed to play baseball at Tuskegee, but he was a force up front on the gridiron and one of the veteran bright spots on the Calera defense.

Jaylon Moore

2025 Calera Roster

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION: (5-5)

Calera will go as far as its new-look defense will take it. Even with the offense’s turnover struggles last season, the Eagles had little difficulty putting points on the board, but the defense remained a liability that kept them from reaching their full potential. Scott Rials was right to prioritize the defense with a new coordinator to get the most out of a unit that has some major upside. For years now, Calera has proven to be a ripe ground for raw talent in many sports, and all it takes to unlock that potential is the right coach. If Ervin Jackson can right the ship as the new defensive coordinator, this team has the potential to reach the playoffs. Even though AJ Johnson’s deep balls will be greatly missed, Jordan Ward showed some ability to go long last year at Montevallo with Dee Cutts, and if he can be more consistent with his throws, it will pair well with a strong run game. However, the region this year is loaded with Spain Park and Benjamin Russell looking like title contenders and Helena and Chelsea appearing strong as well this year. Calera will absolutely see improvements against the non-region slate, but to get to the playoffs, they’ll have to go toe-to-toe with some strong teams. I believe they’re right on the borderline of getting back to November right now, and it all depends on if they can show up and surprise a team or two in region play.

left guard Kevin Corbin are all returning starters. Corbin weighs in at 310 pounds, which makes him the biggest asset as many of the other lineman are in the 250-pound range. Right guard Reajon Hill and young up-and-coming center Davis Harris will fill out the starting five, a group that the coaches see as the foundation of the team with their work ethic, football IQ and game experience. Other depth pieces include Peyton Blalock, Danny Kagia, Edward Samuels and freshman Hudson Comeaux, and Rials rates the latter two particularly high.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Last year’s young rotation will now get a chance to flourish after playing behind a pair of senior starters. Jaylon Lee is the lone returner of the front four in their 4-3 base, and Kendrum

Robinson, Aiden Hudson and Jayveon Buie will likely fill out the unit. Rials said all four bring quickness, fight and a hard work ethic to the defense. Their goal is to anchor down and excel against the run to avoid getting pounded to death on the ground like they were at times last year. Look out for Israel Robinson to get some time as the basketball senior learns the game and utilizes his 320-pound frame alongside another rotation guy in Jackson Black.

LINEBACKER

Calera has a versatile and experienced trio at linebacker, and it starts with Camarien Yow at Sam. He is the leader of the defense and his football mind allows him to both make plays and rally his teammates to their positions. Josh Littleton is back at Will and Jeremiah Pouncy will take the Mike spot, but the

Joshua Littleton

QUICK HITS

EXPERIENCE UP FRONT It is hard for an offense to get much of anything accomplished without an experienced offensive line, but the unit features three returning starters, something the Eagles fully intend to use to their advantage. If the offensive line can buy more time for Ward in the pocket or allow him to take off and run, the Eagles will be in better shape offensively with a freer ground attack.

TAKING THE NEXT STEP The situation that Scott Rials inherited when taking over the Calera Eagles program prior to the 2024 campaign was less than ideal, but he made the most of what he had. He led the Eagles to three wins—three more than they had the season prior—but there was still something missing. Calera’s defense struggled to get off the field on third down, giving up the most points per game of any county team as a result, and taking care of the football was also a challenge. With a year under his belt with the program, Rials hopes to contend for a playoff spot in 2025.

NEW FACES ON OFFENSE The Eagles will look a lot different on the offensive side of the ball this season. With a new starting quarterback and only one returning starter at wide receiver, the Eagles will need breakout seasons from multiple areas if they want 2025 to be a memorable campaign. The one primary skill player returning from last year’s offense is running back Jordan Henderson, who had a breakout season in 2024, looks to take advantage of an experienced group up front and lead Calera’s ground attack.

trio can play any of the three linebacker positions because of their experience. They also have a very capable group of backups in Leshan Muthii, JTavious Abston and Will Jenkins who will definitely rotate in so the starting three can give their all in each play and hand it off to the backups when they need a breather.

SECONDARY

After a crucial injury to Carlos Whisenhunt, Calera will need to shore up its cornerback room. Jerrin McCain is a returning starter who has worked hard this offseason, but Kerry Smith will likely slide into Whisenhunt’s role as the second corner if he can’t go. Cameron Smith and Kamren Jackson are working at safety over the summer, but Blake Montgomery may

Jeremiah Pouncey

Photo by Andrew Simonson

2024 STATS

Offense

Total Points: 269

Per Game: 26.9

County Rank: 6th

Defense Points Allowed: 382

Per Game: 38.2

County Rank: 11th

3

On the defensive side of the ball, Calera will look at its linebacker trio to help the team get the job done. The three starters, defensive leader Camarien Yow at Sam, Josh Littleton at Will and Jeremiah Pouncey at Mike, can make an impact when on the field together. This is a trend that Rials will hope to see continue as a strong defense could lead the way for the Eagles as they look at build on the progress made last season.

jump them if he continues his fast ascension. Rials believes this group is much improved, partly because the new DC Jackson is a defensive back coach by trade. Their goal is to increase their third-down stops and forced turnovers, two weaknesses last year.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Eagles have lots of continuity in special teams in kicker Connor Busby, punter Drew Majewski and long snapper

KEY NUMBERS

5

Five of the opponents Calera will face in 2025 were playoff teams a season ago. Northridge, Benjamin Russell, Chelsea, Spain Park and Helena are the five and the Eagles went 0-5 against these opponents last season and faced Benjamin Russell, Chelsea and Spain Park on the road. Helena and Northridge will be road contests for Calera this season, but they will play more of their tougher challenges on their home field.

Davis Harris. Busby’s used his experience last year and summer work to get steady from inside 40 yards and get near the end zone on kickoffs. Majewski punted last year before his season-ending knee injury, but he’s back up around 35 yards a punt. Harris will likely snap after working field goals and extra points last year, and Jaylon Moore, Kamren Smith and Elijah Bates will return kicks and punts.

3,224

It’s hard to overstate just how much of an impact AJ Johnson had on the offense last season. He finished with 3,224 all-purpose yards, including 2,805 passing yards and 420 rushing yards. He also scored 23 touchdowns across both the air and ground. While turnovers were obviously a problem for the offense last season, Calera’s deep passing game will likely take a hit without Johnson and last year’s senior wide receivers. It will be up to a new-look passing game to carry over the positives from last season and weed out the negatives.

CHELSEA

HORNETS

The Chelsea Hornets made the most of their first year back in Class 6A by making the playoffs. However, the end of the season wasn’t what anyone in the building expected or wanted.

After a historic 6-0 start, Chelsea stumbled to a five-game losing streak to end the season, going from being tied atop Class 6A, Region 3 to earning the No. 4 seed and having the displeasure of traveling to back-to-back state runner-up Saraland in the first round.

Coach Todd Cassity isn’t focusing much on the end of the season but is building off an experienced foundation that is motivated to improve, enjoys working and is well-coached.

The internal goal is to take the next step and host a playoff game, and with a strong run game and back end of the defense, the path may be there for them to do it.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

It’s a three-man battle for the starting spot between Grant Propst, Logan Strunk and Hudson Picklesimer. Propst and Strunk split reps in the spring game against Stanhope Elmore but Picklesimer’s athleticism has thrown him into the mix. All three do different jobs well, with Strunk throwing it well, Picklesimer running it well and Propst splitting the difference by being decent at both but knows the offense the best of the trio. Cassity said all three will play somewhere and wants one to step up as the starter, but he is open to rotating based on personnel or simply who has the hot hand.

RUNNING BACK

The backfield is completely intact from last year, which is a positive as Chase Malone (formerly Stracener) and Morgan Barnes were the breakout stars of the offense last year. Malone has somehow gotten faster and stronger ahead of his senior season but is still the same guy who wants to run you over, just a bit twitchier with a 4.5-second 40-yard dash. Barnes has come leaps and bounds and is close to realizing the potential as a shifty back he had before breaking his collarbone against Pelham. Expect a two-back set at times as Cassity views the pair as the best athletes on the offense. Adam Wheeler returns as H-back and blocks angles very well despite

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 6A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

6-5 (3-3 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Todd Cassity

RECORD

9-22 (Fourth Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Scott Lowery, PJ Wright, Cole Corkren, Colby Harris, David Collins, Stuart Morrison, Payton Holmes, Matt Norris, Jamie Scruggs, Lee Miller

LAST REGION TITLE 2006

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2024

Chase Malone

being undersized.

RECEIVER

Lots of new faces worked their way into the receiver room this year, but the Hornets are still two deep at each position. Turner Simpson has the most experience of the bunch, and since coming back from an offseason car wreck, he’s been dynamic and will be the top target this year. TJ Spell is a sophomore with tons of potential, and Jack Flowers is an intriguing prospect at 6-foot-3 with a basketball background. Cassity says once Flowers gets his routerunning down, he’s set. Cohen Jones and Luke Hairston will also work their way onto the field this season.

OFFENSIVE LINE

2025 SCHEDULE Brooks Dixon

Aug. 22: Charles Henderson

Aug. 29: @ Wetumpka

Sep. 5: Pelham*

Sep. 12: Bye

Sep. 19: @ Calera*

Sep. 26: Paul W. Bryant

Oct. 3: @ Chilton County*

Oct. 10: Spain Park*

Oct. 17: @ Helena*

Oct. 24: Benjamin Russell*

Oct. 30: Oak Mountain#

*Region game

#Thursday game

Once again, Cassity views this group as the offense’s strength. Adam Brooks and Brooks Dixon had been hot on the recruiting trail this summer with multiple Division III offers ahead of their senior year. Cassity says Brooks is the one of the

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Chase Malone, RB

Malone powered his way to 1,601 rushing yards last season, and as a senior now, is looking to make even more of an impression than he did as a junior.

Adam Brooks, OL

As a center, Brooks helps to lead the offense up front and looks to keep improving off of a great year in 2024 with zero bad snaps.

Briston Hardy, LB

As one of the younger linebackers on the squad, Hardy has made himself known already with 128 total tackles last year along with two forced fumbles.

Porter Schott, LB

Schott adds to the deep linebacking group and will stand out as a senior leader this season after being a terror in his junior year.

KEY DEPARTURES

Romello Cooper, DL

The now-Samford athlete capped off his time as a Hornet as a force out on the edge with his 56 total tackles and 11 tackles for loss.

CJ Durbin, WR

A speedy receiver, Durbin was a versatile threat and will be missed with a lot of new faces stepping into his shoes this coming year.

Will Pohlmann, OL

Despite the offensive line being a strength this season, Pohlmann was a key leader up front with Brooks last year and made his mark as a protector.

Ethan Prickett, LB

With the linebackers being a deep squad this year, that could not have been accomplished without Prickett’s leadership, as he leaves them in good hands.

2025 Chelsea Roster

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (8-2)

Call this my bold swing, but it’s not as far-fetched as you may think. Chelsea proved last year that it is very difficult to stop an elite run-based team, and with Chase Malone, Morgan Barnes and a talented offensive line, they’ll be elite again this year. They also have arguably the most talented back seven in the entire region, if not the most experienced with the number of starters returning across the linebackers and secondary. That matches them up well with the elite passing games of Spain Park and Benjamin Russell, where they’ll need playmakers to step up in space. The one thing this team needs to step up to become a top-two team in the region is a strong passing game. If Logan Strunk’s arm lives up to the hype and two of the new receivers step up, that will open up the run game so much more by preventing teams from solely selling out to stop Malone. With the defensive talent across the board in this region, having an offense with multiple options is key. We saw what happened last year when Chelsea was forced to be one-dimensional, and it was a massive fall-off from their 6-0 start. With the schedule back-loaded once again this year, the Hornets will need to find their groove early and maintain it if they want to avoid a repeat of last year and accomplish Cassity’s goal of hosting the playoffs.

best centers he’s ever coached and complimented Brooks’ physicality and aggressiveness. Lawson Williamson also returns a lot of experience at right tackle, but he’ll be starting the season fresh off recovery from a knee injury. Kevin Madrid and Kale Hughes also have lots of game experience back at the guard spot, which will be needed as the goal is to lean heavily on the line in the run game after using the spread to set up handoffs.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Despite losing all three starters, the coaching staff feels great about the group. Aidyn Young steps into Samford signee Romello Cooper’s spot and has made the most strides of anyone on the defense to make good on the promise of his big frame. Speaking of big frames, Lane Cox brings a 6-foot-2, 280-pound build to the nose tackle role, and in the

game reps he had last year, offensive linemen had trouble blocking him. The other spot in the three-man base front will go to either Will Decker, Cristian Madrid or Charlie Parham, but the defense will have room to go to a 4-3 or even front, which could open spots for the others to rotate in.

LINEBACKER

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more experienced and talented inside linebacker duo than senior Porter Schott and junior Briston Hardy. Hardy had a team-high 128 tackles along with five sacks and three fumble recoveries to make the All-County First Team, and Schott was right behind him with 118 tackles and an All-County Second Team selection. Both know the defense well and rally guys around them. Ryan Burnett and Brandon Bousman provide depth behind them inside. Going

Rank: 7th

Photo by Iron City Studios

QUICK HITS

FINISH THE JOB

The biggest struggle for any team player when they are having success is pushing themselves towards the finish line and securing a win. For Chelsea, after six wins to start the year, five-straight losses followed, ending its season in the first round of the Class 6A state playoffs. Not wanting that to be the fate in 2025, pushing itself towards success and laying it all on the line to secure a win will be key in avoiding something similar to five-game losing streak from last year. The Hornets must take advantage of the success they have and keep driving with it.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DEPTH

With deep groups on the defensive line and at linebacker, Chelsea has the opportunity to keep fresh legs on the defensive side of the ball. With long and grueling games ahead of them in one of the most competitive regions in Class 6A, the Hornets can use this to their advantage to ensure they not only stay competitive but win some games late as well. This will be crucial down the stretch at the end of the year as everyone will be banged up and running out of pure energy prior to postseason action.

ONE STEP CLOSER

The Chelsea Hornets saw a big drop when they moved to Class 7A in 2023, but every year since then, they’ve improved in the win-loss column. The Hornets went from a 1-9 record in their first year in 7A to two wins in 2023 before a move to Class 6A put them at 6-5 and back in the playoffs for the first time since 2021. Crucially, it was their first winning season since 2016, marking a major step forward for the program. However, Cassity now has his eyes set on hosting a home playoff game and finishing in the top two of the region. It’ll be difficult, but a returning veteran core could help put Chelsea over the top.

outside, Luke Beavers and Le’Mel Martinear both run well and know the system, especially Martinear, who has gotten thicker and improved over the offseason.

SECONDARY

The defensive backs are among the most experienced around with 60 combined starts across their preferred starting four. Sam

2024 RESULTS

Mobile Christian W 24-3

Wetumpka W 15-14

@ Pelham* W 36-33

Calera* W 56-28

@ Paul W. Bryant W 49-12

Chilton County* W 35-6

@ Spain Park* L 3-31 Helena* L 28-38

@ Benjamin Russell* L 0-34

@ Oak Mountain L 14-16

@ Saraland# L 3-42

*Region Game

#Playoff Game

Parrish has come a long way since starting his freshman year at Class 7A, and especially this offseason, he’s gotten bigger in anticipation of a big senior year. The other returning starters Grant Evans and John Leith have both grown physically, and Leith has also added speed and knowledge of the system to his game as well. Ben Christian and Caaleb Thomas are pushing the trio of seniors and could find their way onto the field as freshmen.

SPECIAL TEAMS

With Luke Miller focusing on his All-State soccer career now, John Leith stepped into all three special teams roles. However, Cassity thought Leith was just a tad behind Miller last year and is now just as good as him with more starting reps at kicker. He has experience at punter and has a bigger frame which could open up more fake opportunities. The Hornets’ strength at long snapper continues as senior Tyler Kirkland steps into a full-time starting role, and he has a perfectionist mindset and the skillset to potentially play in college. Sam Parrish, TJ Spell and Morgan Barnes will return.

COOSA VALLEY

REBELS

The Coosa Valley Rebels will look to continue their momentum from the end of last season with a fresh voice in charge.

After assisting for the last few seasons, Reece Donahoo was named the head coach of the Rebels on July 8. He hopes to channel his successful semifinal run in baseball and provide a jumpstart for a program that has long struggled to attract numbers.

That’s the case yet again as Coosa Valley had just 12 players as of late July, but unlike previous years, seven of them are seniors and the vast majority of them have some football experience. That means less time on fundamentals and more time developing dedicated 8-man systems in year two in the format.

The Rebels started to see signs of hope with two wins in their final three games last year. Now, it’s all about building on that success and charting a new path forward for the once-proud program.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

Braylon Smalls got time under center two years ago as a backup, but a finger injury cost him his junior year. Now, he has a dual-threat skillset with a solid deep ball, but the offense will be more based on the quarterback run. He’s working on his short throws in the buildup to the season, but Donahoo said his heart and toughness make him the best signal caller. Michael Gobels will back him up.

RUNNING BACK

Rhett Johnson is back for his third year of football and second year at running back. Since Coosa Valley mostly runs with its quarterback, Johnson’s main job in the offense is to block the quarterback run and provide pass protection, and he does that job well.

RECEIVER

Jake McArthur was one of the bright spots of the 2024 campaign. He’s now starting to come into his 6-foot-3 frame and has gotten a lot faster over the offseason to expand his skillset even more. Kellin Smith will line up opposite him, and he is also a very quick option with solid catching abilities and a knack for moving around in open field. Sam Setzer and Colton Smith are two newer options.

CLASSIFICATION

AISA Class A 8-Man

2024 RECORD

3-7 (2-6 Class A)

HEAD COACH

Reece Donahoo

RECORD

First Year

ASSISTANT COACH

Vince DiLorenzo

LAST REGION TITLE 2010

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2021

Jake McArthur

OFFENSIVE LINE

Two of the three starters are back from a year ago in Andrew Weaver and Brooks Klinner. Weaver will move over to center after primarily starting at guard in 2024. Klinner will handle his usual guard spot, and going into his third season, he’s gotten in the weight room and is faster after an offseason of work. Two new players will play at the other end: fastrising eight-grader Grayden Willis and the 5-foot-9, 300-pound Brody Isbell.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Andrew Weaver and Ethan Hollingsworth will start on either end of the line. Donahoo said the pair bring great length and speed to their positions, so expect both to be solid options at getting into the backfield once again. Either the big-bodied Brody Isbell to clog up the gap or Brooks Klinner, who the coaching staff has high expectations for on either side of the ball and a hope for a more aggressive streak going into his senior year, will play nose guard.

LINEBACKER

Since Braylon Smalls in the

quarterback, it only makes sense that he is the defensive leader at inside linebacker. Donahoo likes Smalls as a versatile option who has a knack for making hard tackles but can also drop into coverage if needed. Rhett Johnson is back inside, and in his second year in the system, he’s grown into a great playcaller and one of the most vocal leaders. Michael Gobels can also play linebacker.

SECONDARY

The receivers will once again flip over into the secondary with Kellin Smith and Jake McArthur to start at defensive back. Both have tall and long frames that lend them to naturally match up well with receivers, but they have athleticism to go with that. Donahoo said both can snatch the ball in coverage and will be trusted to hold down one-on-one matchups well. Colton Smith will feature here as well.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Rhett Johnson kicked off last year and has handled the squibs and onside kicks well. Kellin Smith will punt as his lanky form has given him a good leg. Either Smith or McArthur will return kicks and punts, giving them two speedy options.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jake McArthur, WR/DB

After coming into his own in the passing game last year, McArthur will be the top target once again on offense.

Rhett Johnson, RB/LB Johnson returns for his second year at running back and has become one of the leaders on both sides of the ball.

Andrew Weaver, OL/DL Weaver held down the guard spot well but will move to center to complement his speed and length on defensive end.

Brooks Klinner, OL/DL Now entering his third year with the Rebels, Klinner has high expectations after progressing greatly over the offseason.

KEY DEPARTURES

Landon Payton, QB/LB Payton provided timely explosive plays on offense as the Rebels signal-caller in

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: @ Springwood*

Aug. 29: Southern Prep*

Sept. 5: Bye

Sept. 12: Trinity*

Sept. 19: Escambia*

Sept. 26: @ Cornerstone*

Oct. 3: Heritage*

Oct. 10: @ Evangel-Montgomery*

Oct. 17: North River*

Oct. 24: @ Macon-East*

Oct. 31: @ Snook*

*Region Game

2025 Coosa valley Roster

Jordin Rogers, WR/DB Rogers was one of the key playmakers in the air and made big plays in multiple key moments during the season.

2024.

Photo by Andrew Simonson

CORNERSTONE

CHARGERS

The Cornerstone Christian Chargers one-upped their first state football championship with another, this time going undefeated to finish atop the AISA 8-Man division for the second year in a row.

Much of that success came because of a talented senior class, including veterans Zeke Adams, Noah Schober, Landon Alexander and Hampton Etheredge. However, that group is gone, which left a need for new leaders both on and off the field.

Malachi Adams and TC Sanders have stepped up and are part of a young group hungry for their third-straight ring. The roster is a product of the culture change over the last five years as the Chargers now expect to compete for championships.

While questions remain around the field, the expectation is still to compete.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

Lee is quick to admit that no one player can replace Zeke Adams. However, he believes their two options could get them close. TC Sanders brings an option style more in line with what Adams ran, but they have a strong pocket-passer in Nathan McKnight. They may make some offensive changes to accommodate the two quarterbacks, but the coaches are excited about what the duo brings.

RUNNING BACK

While the Chargers will primarily be an option team on the ground, Jackson Moore is a downhill runner who has a bigger frame but is quick for his size. He’ll have a pair of speedy options behind him in newcomer Kaleb Patterson, who is quick and stubby, as well as the flashy and fast Jacob Merkl.

RECEIVER

It’s a completely new-look receiver room this year, and Kollin Keef has stepped up as the leader. He excels as a possession receiver and shines bright down deep in Noah Schober’s former role. Jadia Dixon’s athleticism makes him another deep threat as well. TC Sanders and Nathan McKnight can line up at receiver when not needed under center, and the group is rounded out by a pair of newcomers with good hands

CLASSIFICATION

AISA Class A 8-Man

2024 RECORD

12-0 (8-0) Class A State Champions

HEAD COACH

James Lee RECORD 43-41 (Ninth Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Sam Adams, Nick Simmons, Dane Reece, Alan Keef, Xavier Harris, Justus Adams, Erik Brechin, Seth Trimble

LAST REGION TITLE 2024

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2024

Malachi Adams

in Asher Welsh and Kutter Thompson.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Malachi Adams will hold down the center spot, and he’s up to 240 pounds with the ability to go play tight end if needed. Gabe Allman, Stephen Fanning and Jadia Dixon are battling for the two tackle spots. Almond is bigger at 6-foot4, 300 pounds, and while Fanning and Dixon are both just under 200 pounds, Lee has no concern about their size because of their abilities. Grant Standifer can also rotate in.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Malachi Adams was an All-American last season with 86 tackles and 19 sacks, and the junior once again be relied upon as one of the biggest defensive playmakers. Clay Key brings a lot of excitement as a newcomer running opposite him. Gabe Allman, Jadia Dixon and Stephen Fanning are all in the mix for the starting nose guard spot.

LINEBACKER

TC Sanders will step up as the leader

of this group. He’s gotten bigger this offseason to get closer to the 205-pound Jackson Moore, who will run alongside him. Malachi Adams has gotten some reps at linebacker over the offseason, and Asher Welch will play here as well.

SECONDARY

The main goal of the defense is to help the young and inexperienced defensive backs group. Seth Graham, Kutter Thompson and Jadia Dixon will take the safety spots while Kollin Keef and Jacob Sickles will help the unit as well. Lee said this group has lockdown potential but is still learning through offseason workouts and 7-on-7 camps.

SPECIAL TEAMS

For the second-straight season, Cornerstone is on the hunt for specialists. Jackson Moore, Jadia Dixon and Jeremiah Caver each have the legs to kick, but nothing is solidified. TC Sanders will be the main returning option after a solid year of experience last year.

2025 CORNERSTONE Roster

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Malachi Adams, DL/OL Adams has been one of the top defensive playmakers for the last two seasons and will now be one of the leaders of the defense.

Jackson Moore, RB/LB

If the Chargers are to repeat last season’s success on the ground, they’ll have to turn to Moore, who is bigger but still quick and brings experience to the backfield.

Kolin Keef, WR/DB Keef will step up into a bigger role as the new deep-ball threat while also impacting the game in the secondary.

TC Sanders, LB/QB/WR Sanders brings an option skillset to the quarterback position, but he still has the hands to play receiver and brings the intensity at linebacker.

KEY DEPARTURES

Zeke Adams, QB/DB/LB Adams’ athleticism and arm strength made him one of the most dynamic playmakers in 8-man football, and the Faulkner signee’s loss will be felt on both fronts.

Noah Shober, WR/DB Shober was a lockdown defender in the secondary and could pinpoint any deep ball on offense, and he was a key threeway player for the Chargers.

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: @ Southern Prep*

Aug. 29: Snook*

Sep. 5: @ Trinity*

Sep. 12: Springwood*

Sep. 19: Bye

Sep. 26: Coosa Valley*

Oct. 3: Evangel-Montgomery*

Oct. 10: Escambia*

Oct. 17: Macon-East*

Oct. 24: @ Heritage*

Oct. 31: @ North River* *Region Game

Photo by Andrew Simonson

EVANGEL

LIGHTING

The Evangel Christian Lightning reigned supreme over the Alabama Christian Schools Conference for the third-straight year in a big season that saw the Lightning take on tough challenges at the 11-man level. This year, it’s back to 8-man full-time and back to basics for coach Tim Smith. After losing 17 seniors and three transfers, numbers are down across the board, including half the usual senior class.

However, that opens up starting spots for a young wave of talent which has the coaching staff very excited. They’ll need to grow up on the fly though, especially with tough out-of-state tests like Arendell Parrott, River Oaks and Chattanooga Patriots on the non-conference slate.

Their goal is to grow and get better over the course of the season to remain in contention for both the ACSC titles and a planned return to nationals after a hiatus last year.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

After two years with Kemp Swords at the helm, Eli Black takes over the quarterback spot. Smith sees him as a combo of Swords’ athleticism and Eli Whitfield’s passing even as he works on his accuracy. Trey Hope and Sawyer Welch will be behind him.

RUNNING BACK

It’s Isaac Griifth’s job to lose as he takes over the starting spot. He brings a lot of strength to the position and has some decent speed in his legs that will only get better as he works hard on and off the field. Griifth will have some help in the backfield thanks to veteran back David Johnson.

RECEIVER

Ben Davis takes over Will Welch’s slot spot and has great speed and hands to help him succeed. Trey Hope may be a football rookie, but his route-running is already up to par with the starters. Senior Nick Sanders has big expectations. Alex Martin is already regarded as the fastest player on the team. Younger pieces include Isaac Griifth, tight end Max Watson and Ethan and Jackson Morris.

OFFENSIVE LINE

One of the biggest returning pieces for the Lightning is Wyatt Chandler, who is one of the

CLASSIFICATION

ACSC

2024 RECORD

9-2 (6-0) ACSC State Champions

HEAD COACH

Tim Smith

RECORD 84-13 (Ninth Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Clay Romano, Brian Wolfe, Marty Black, Dexter Carden, Andrew Welch

LAST REGION TITLE 2024

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2024

Ben Davis

biggest linemen but can move very well. Every other offensive lineman is new. Whit Born and Jackson Lowden are battling for center. James Wolfe, Eli McDonald and Konnor Looman will all be up for the right and left tackle positions along with Chandler.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Caleb Woods became a big presence at nose guard last year at 290 pounds. Eli McDonald will help out at nose as well. Wyatt Chandler’s speed makes him a good fit for either the edge or nose positions, and Jack Nivens has a lot of potential. Look for James Wolfe, Zach Davis, Jackson Lowden and Cruz Romano to assist in the group.

LINEBACKER

Eli Black will also serve as the quarterback of the defense at Mike

linebacker. Isaac Griifth, Jack Nivens, Max Watson and Trey Hope will all need to take the starting spots by the horns, while Sawyer Welch and Cason Venable are pushing for starting spots.

SECONDARY

Speed is the name of the game at defensive back as Ben Davis and Alex Martin look to be the starters. Their main focus is on coverage while Trey Hope and Nick Sanders back them up. Rotating in will be EJ Aiken, Jackson Bourgeois, Isaac Griffin, Ethan and Jackson Morris and Sawyer Welch.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Nick Sanders will hold down the kicker role again. Trey Hope emerged as the starting punter over the summer. James Wolfe and Wyatt Chandler will start at long snapper.

2025 Evangel Roster

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Eli Black, QB/LB

One of the most athletic players on the Lightning, Black took the leadership mantle and shares many of Kemp Swords’ dual-threat characteristics but in a bigger frame.

Ben Davis, WR/CB

Davis brings pure speed and great hands to either side of the ball and will be called upon to fill Will Welch’s role on both offense and defense.

Wyatt Chandler, OL/DL

The lone returning starting lineman from last year, Chandler is fast for his size and will lead both the offensive and defensive lines.

Caleb Woods, NG

The big-bodied Woods is one of the most physical presences up front and presents a matchup nightmare for any 8-man offensive line.

KEY DEPARTURES

Kemp Swords, QB/LB/DB Swords was the dynamic dual-threat leader of the offense who proved to be as adept with his legs as he was with his arm while quarterbacking two state title teams.

Will Welch, WR/DB

The Lightning’s top weapon on the offense could also make plays in coverage on defense with his speed and hands.

Reed Castleberry, OL/DE While Evangel will be without many of their linemen on both sides, Castleberry was both a playmaker and a leader of both units who will be missed.

2024 SCHEDULE

Aug. 16: Arendell Parrott (NC, at Gatlinburg)

Aug. 22: Chattanooga Patriots (TN)

Aug. 29: Bye

Sept. 5: River Oaks (LA)

Sep. 12: @ Freedom

Sep. 19: @ Ezekiel*

Sep. 26: Lighthouse*

Oct. 3: Bye

Oct. 10: Southern Christian*

Oct. 17: @ East Central*

*Region Game

Photo by Andrew Simonson

HELENA

HUSKIES

The Helena Huskies overcame a difficult schedule to host a home playoff game, but an early crash-out left them back where they have been for their 11 seasons of existence–out before the quarterfinals.

Now, the challenge will be to vie for region glory with a very young and inexperienced roster. Only four starters return on either side of the ball, and with just 20 seniors this year, sophomores will fill out multiple starting spots. However, coach Richie Busby has multiple underclassmen who he believes have high ceilings and can start now, especially on defense.

While questions remain on the offensive line, secondary and special teams, the leaders are as strong as ever with Nate Ferguson, Dom Santiago and Jonathan Roberto using their experience to bring the younger players along.

Like years past, the Huskies will run and blitz heavily, and they hope to channel last year’s strong finish to grow over the course of the year.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

Nate Ferguson enters year two as Helena’s starting quarterback, and his veteran leadership will be muchneeded on a young Huskies offense. On the field, he still possesses the athleticism to be a dual-threat, but much of the offseason work has focused on his arm. Busby says Ferguson makes decisions faster and that his experience helped slow the game down for him alongside a streamlined offense under newly-promoted offensive coordinator Nick Malantis. Right behind him is Caleb Soreano, a 6-foot-3 sophomore who Busby says made massive strides last year and has the arm talent and leadership qualities to be special if he continues working.

RUNNING BACK

Dom Santiago broke out in a big way last year after Jeremy Spratling’s injury and firmly established himself as the day-one starter with a strong finish to 2024, including five touchdowns against Calera in the regularseason finale. Busby calls Santiago the best three-down back he’s ever had and has some of the best hands on the team, meaning he’ll be used around the offense. As in years past, he will have a capable running mate in Jacoby Studimire, who is bigger than last season and can run on the inside and outside. He is still working on his receiving but the coaching staff welcomes his experience since

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 6A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

6-4 (5-1 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Richie Busby

RECORD

50-26 (Eighth Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Jim Elgin, Keith Maple, Don Dover, Ryan Dudchock, Adam Bice, Jonathan Mincey, David Lee, Nick Malantis, Eli Bealle, Clif Naron, Antonio Ruiz

LAST REGION TITLE 2021

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2024

Nate Ferguson

they’ll run their traditional two-back set. Behind them will be high-ceiling sophomore Barack Djalo and linebacker Lane Harris. Connor Guida will return in the H-back role, and he mixes blocking strength with athleticism and hands. His backup is the hard-nosed Morgan Turner.

RECEIVER

Like the eponymous singer, Chris Brown has grown up in the public eye but is now ready for the big time. At 6-foot-1, 200 pounds, he is big and physical with the speed to take the top off and get open with his excellent route running. Busby credits his breakthrough to focusing on the details, and he’ll be the top target at either slot or out wide. JP Shultz will start his first full season on varsity after a pair of strong JV years, and he is another big body who can maneuver his frame to win matchups. Isiah Kenny stepped up admirably last year after the Nate Jones injury and is now a prototypical shifty slot receiver. Two baseball guys who will make an impact are Bradley Wainwright, whose body is catching up to his football IQ after a growth spurt, and Davis Kelley, who is

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: Bye

Aug. 29: McAdory

Sept. 5: Chilton County*

Sept. 12: @ Spain Park*

Sept. 19: @ Moody

Sept. 26: @ Oxford

Oct. 3: @ Benjamin Russell*

Oct. 10: @ Pelham*

Oct. 17: Chelsea*

Oct. 24: Calera*

Oct. 30: Tarrant#

*Region Game

#Thursday Game

big and physical enough to play in 10 personnel or as a secondary H-back. Josh Griffith can rotate in at just about every position, and Cody Sicola will provide support as well.

OFFENSIVE LINE

It’s rare to have a junior be a three-year starter along the line at a 6A school, but that speaks to the talent of Eli Berry. He is the anchor of the line and can play all five positions. Despite Berry’s lack of size, Busby believes his athleticism takes him

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Nate Ferguson, QB

A veteran leader who possesses the athleticism to be a dual-threat, he’s worked on his arm strength this offseason to reach the next level.

Eli Berry, OL

A three-year starter who is the anchor of the line and can play all five positions. His athleticism makes him a standout player in the trenches.

Jonathan Roberto, LB

A veteran with no shortage of starting experience. He is an athletic hybrid who is expected to make a difference on a college roster in the future.

Dom Santiago, RB

A breakout player last season who will have an increased role in 2025. He can catch passes and make plays in the open field.

Chris Brown, WR

A sizable target who is expected to lead the Huskies’ receiving corps. His speed allows him to excel as a route runner.

KEY LOSSES

Austin Lewis, K/P

The talented kicker took his talents to Troy after providing Helena with multiple seasons of high-level special teams performance.

JT Alvis, S

The athletic and versatile safety joined Troy after providing Helena’s secondary with four seasons of service as a starter.

Jeremy Spratling, RB

The Huskies main ball carrier from a season ago was a key force in the ground game before suffering a career-ending injury.

Torrey Ward, WR

Helena’s reliable leading receiver in made life difficult for defensive backs.

Dom Santiago

2025 Helena Roster

Photo by Andrew Simonson

over the top and makes him one of the most college-ready linemen he’s ever coached. A plethora of players are battling for the other four spots, but Sam Hartzog established himself as the likely starter at center early in the summer. The hard-working and growing Gavin Vansandt will help the guard group alongside Brennen Smith and Mason Williams. At tackle, it will likely be Jacob Davis and freshman Sam Landrum, the latter of whom is already 6-foot-4, 270 pounds and has gained Busby’s trust to play early. While most of the line is young and undersized, they have a pair of bigger options in Preston Gordinier and Grayson Bruner, but Malantis’ goal as OC will be to work in the passing game to avoid teams loading up the box on a young offensive line to stop the run.

DEFENSIVE LINE

It’s a completely new look here as four starters and one rotation player graduated from this group. Helena will

have some experience back in basketball player and former rotation pick Aiden Zepp as well as a fill-in starter last year in senior Ryan Spann. The rest of the players are younger and smaller, but the coaching staff likes their athleticism and believes slants and blitzes can bring out the best in the group. Prince Goode and Dalton Maye excelled in JV last year, and Busby believes they have college potential. Sebastian Molina, Logan Mineweaser and Ian Crocker will fill out the group.

LINEBACKER

Easily the most talented and experienced group of the defense, the linebackers will need to blitz, pressure and make plays to help out the young players around them. Jonathan Roberto is the veteran leader as a junior, something that may not make sense until you realize he’s started every game since his freshman year. He’s an athletic hybrid who is projected as an FBS-level safety but blitzes so well that he anchors

2024 RESULTS

Bye

McAdory W 29-28

Chilton County* W 48-13

Spain Park* L 26-28

Moody L 21-26

Oxford L 10-35

Benjamin Russell* W 55-14

Pelham* W 42-2

@ Chelsea* W 38-28

@ Calera* W 49-21

Bye

St. Paul’s# L 0-26

*Region Game

#Playoff Game

2024 STATS

Offense

Total Points: 318

Per Game: 31.8

County Rank: 2nd

Defense

Points Allowed: 221

Per Game: 22.1

County Rank: 6th

EDITOR’S 2025

PREDICTION (7-3)

Helena has been the bridesmaid of Class 6A for the past few years. The potential has been there at times to compete with the best of the best, but the Huskies can’t quite seem to break beyond the lower ranks of the top 10 and become a true state title contender. In a loaded region with possibly three top-10 teams and a non-region schedule which includes three 5A and 6A playoff teams, that puts the Huskies in an unenviable spot. Don’t get me wrong–I’d stack the top end of Helena’s talent up with the best of the best. However, just like last year, it’s the depth that concerns me. A very young and small offensive line puts Busby’s plans of a run-first offense in jeopardy, and questions up front and in the secondary on defense could make the brutal first half of the schedule even harder. The coaching staff believes the raw talent is there, but until they come into their own, I’m predicting more of the same: good enough to make the playoffs but not enough to go deep. That’s nothing to sneeze at, but probably not what Huskies fans would be satisfied with.

the linebacker group for Helena. Roberto is one of three starting linebackers who are multi-sport athletes alongside DJ Williams and Lane Harris. Williams moved over from defensive line two weeks before last year’s opener and was such a natural fit that he had more than 10 tackles against McAdory. Harris started outside for most of the season last year but is versatile enough to play multiple linebacker positions. However, the best athlete may be Brayden Jackson, a sophomore who missed half of last season but will play a key role alongside the senior Logan Horstead.

SECONDARY

While all four defensive backs are gone from last season, the coaches feel great about the four starters they have because of their effort and willingness to learn. Emmanuel Compton is a high-ceiling sophomore who controls his body well and has great ball skills for a cornerback. He still has much to learn after converting from a soccer background, but colleges are already impressed at his raw talent.

Nathan Reid and Reid Lucas will start at safety and excel at tackling, something that Busby wants the defense to become more disciplined at this year. Khai Coleman will start opposite Clapton as a 6-0 junior with lockdown potential in man-to-man. Expect Cole Davis to factor into the rotation as the Bessemer Academy receiver could be a utility piece since he knows the system well.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Helena was blessed with an FBS-level kicker in Austin Lewis for many years, but he’s gone for Troy. That combined with years of playing in the OTM middle school league, which doesn’t field special teams, left them with a lost generation of special teamers. As a result, two freshmen are battling for the field goal job in Landon Gibbs and Carter Kincaid. Kickoffs and punts are still an open question as Busby doesn’t want to start a freshman at punter. One special teams strength is long snapper, which has James Vakakes back while Levi Davis already specializes in it as a freshman.

Playing for his brothers

Helena’s Nate Ferguson is motivated by those around him

Written by DANIEL LOCKE | FILE PHOTO

FFollowing a campaign that ended with a loss in the first round of the playoffs, the Helena Huskies are looking to put together the program’s best season to date in 2025.

Senior quarterback Nate Ferguson is primed for a special season. As the college offers continue to roll in, the Huskies’ star quarterback will do everything in his power to make this year one to remember.

MAKING HIS FAMILY PROUD

Ferguson is driven to succeed by his family. Making them proud is one of his biggest motivations. He also understands how important family truly is in the grand scheme of things, avoiding putting things above it that should not be there.

“Family is everything, other than God,” Ferguson said.

Ferguson’s father, Trey, has pushed him to reach his full potential. His father has instilled an emphasis on hard work in his son, teaching him to always put his best foot forward, no matter the circumstances.

“My dad is who introduced me to sports,” Ferguson said. “He has truly pushed me in to being the man I am today. He’s always pushed me to what some people think is too much, but it’s always been because he wants to see me do my best.”

Ferguson knows his mother, Ashley, will have his back no matter what. It does not matter if he plays his best game or his worst game, he is aware that his mother will be there to support him every

step of the way.

“It’s great to have such a loving mom,” Ferguson said. “You are not always going to play your best game. You are not always going to perform to the best of your ability. It’s a blessing to have a mom that is always there loving you, even when that happens, when you play your best or you don’t play your best.

Ferguson has referred to his family as “his why,” adding to his determination to represent them to the best of his ability.

HUSKY PRIDE

Ferguson takes a tremendous amount of pride in suiting up in a Helena uniform on Friday nights. Playing with a group of teammates he loves deeply is another source of motivation for the quarterback.

“Those are my brothers,” Ferguson said. “It’s always been such a big thing for me to grow up in one place and play with my guys. These are the same guys I went to elementary school with, I think that means something. Those are the guys that I’m going to stay in touch with down the line. It’s really a family.”

Playing for head coach Richie Busby is another thing Ferguson is motivated by. He believes Busby excels in preparing the team to keep pushing, even when running on fumes late in a game.

“I really like how coach Busby is really into the game,” Ferguson said. “He pushes us very hard. That’s what helps us to be one of the tougher teams that wins games at the end of the season, we’re pushed all offseason to perform in those late-game scenarios.”

The Huskies are a well-conditioned group, a principle of Busby’s that Ferguson is a big fan of.

“When we do conditioning, we are going harder in our last quarter than we were when we started,” Ferguson said. “I feel like a lot of teams don’t do that. It pushes us to know what it takes to win when the game is on the line in the fourth quarter.”

Teammates and coaches feeling like family members is an indicator of a special team. In Ferguson’s opinion, the Huskies pass with flying colors.

While being united in the locker room is vital to the success of any team, Helena receives a significant amount of support from the community. Ferguson does not let that support go unnoticed.

“There’s no better feeling in the world than when a little kid comes up to you and tells you that you’re his favorite player,” Ferguson said. “It gives us something to play for other than ourselves.”

Additionally, the community’s presence provides opportunities for Ferguson and company to inspire the next generation of Huskies.

“It’s great to have the community around and showing up to games,” Ferguson said. “I know that I have a chance of inspiring the next little me, the next Helena football player and just continue to build their love for the game.

CLASSROOM EXCELLENCE

While performing at the highest level he possibly can on the field is important to Ferguson, getting the job done in the classroom and keeping his grades up is something that he never neglects.

Ferguson’s 4.2 GPA is a testament to the work he puts in off the field, reflecting his desire to put his best foot forward in everything he does.

“I think it’s huge,” Ferguson said. “Obviously, it opens opportunities that you wouldn’t have if you didn’t take time in the classroom seriously. Everything in life is about the process. Going to school is part of my process. That’s one of my jobs right now, and if I’m going to do anything, I’m going to do it to the best of my ability.”

Keeping his mind sharp also helps him get the job done on the field, as playing quarterback is a grind mentally. Being an excellent student helps him perform to the best of his ability on the football field.

“I believe that playing quarterback is a very intelligent position,” Ferguson said. “We’re constantly having to make quick decisions, make informed decisions, make intelligent decisions while on the field.”

The importance of excelling in the classroom is not only something Ferguson understands and puts into practice each day, but his ability to focus on giving full effort in his studies while making sure he, as well as the rest of the team, is ready to go on Friday nights helps him stand out even more.

Ferguson’s reputation as a top-notch student and teammate in addition to his high-quality quarterback play is something that cannot be taught, making him an even more remarkable player.

MONTEVALLO

BULLDOGS

The Montevallo Bulldogs battled through a late coaching change, move up to 5A and roster turnover throughout the 2024 season, and as a result, they lost their final nine games after a season-opening win over Tarrant.

Afterwards, coach Garrett Langer and his team did what he says is the main thing they know–go back to work.

Now that the Bulldogs have a taste of life in Class 5A, they know the importance of mental toughness in deciding games since there are no easy games at this level. Their goal is to be more resilient to adversity, operate as one unit and just flat-out improve from last year’s disappointment.

Langer says his starters are as good as anyone, but depth will be tested this year with just an eight-man senior class and sophomores littering the rotation. However, if the young players develop into key depth pieces, the opportunity is there to make noise in region play.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

After Jordan Ward transferred to Calera, the Bulldogs have a new voice in the huddle in Jordan McCary. By and large, he’s new to the position, but he makes up for that lack of experience with his willingness to learn. Langer said that while he’ll make mistakes, he takes criticism and coaching well, works them into his game and doesn’t get easily rattled. He is very athletic so any areas of improvement in his arm are offset by his ability to run. Expect more quick runs than last year instead of Ward’s typical power runs since the two signalcallers are built differently. Running back Nahjear Naugher competed with McCary for the job in camp and will back him up.

RUNNING BACK

Caleb Merriweather will be the bell cow once again after stepping up as a sophomore when Razareo Conwell went down against Selma. At 5-foot-9 and 205 pounds, his frame draws comparisons to Joseph Anderson, but he’ll be trusted with more physical, downhill and shortyardage plays. Langer has seen flashes of greatness from Merriweather and hopes the junior can put it together consistently. Jaylen Rutledge will get his

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 5A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

1-9 (0-6 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Garrett Langer

RECORD

1-9 (Second Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Jim King, Chris Stano, Daryl Burnes, Jacob Antonio

LAST REGION TITLE 1995

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2021

Nahjear Naugher

chance on varsity after a standout year on JV last year, and the rising star will be one of two sophomores in the backfield along with Trae Craig.

RECEIVER

Dee Cutts may be gone, but one look at Marquel Jackson might force a double-take. The sophomore is built similar to Cutts at 6-foot-2, 180 pounds and will fill that vacant role. Buck Ross will be a big option in the receiving corps as a Swiss army knife who can play multiple spots thanks to his athleticism. Jace Lewis will handle slot duties as a junior and is expected to handle them well. With the loser of the quarterback battle also filling in at receiver, expect a very athletic position group that

OFFENSIVE LINE

Similar to last year, the offensive line will be the offense’s strength, mainly thanks to three returning starters. Kyler Mitchell, AJ Guizar and Jayden Williams are the heart and soul of the team and also imposing threats at 6-foot-3, 290 pounds for Mitchell, 6-foot-1, 270 pounds for Guizar and 6-2, 260 pounds for Jayden Williams.

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 21: @ Tarrant#

Aug. 29: Sylacauga

Sept. 5: @ Northside*

Sept. 12: Demopolis*

Sept. 19: Bye

Sept. 26: @ John Carroll

Oct. 3: @ Selma*

Oct. 10: Shelby County*

Oct. 17: @ Sipsey Valley*

Oct. 24: Jemison*

Oct. 30: Vincent#

*Region game

#Thursday game

Houston Hilty’s an exciting junior option who progressed well this offseason after back injuries limited his 2024 campaign. The good news is the sophomore class is very lineman-heavy, which will provide depth now while they get the reps they need to develop. Michael Saffold is the leader of that class after a strong offseason.

DEFENSIVE LINE

While Caleb Merriweather was a massive threat at defensive end last year, the need at running back will limit his reps here. Nose guard will likely be handled by an offensive

AJ Guizar, OL/DL

Guizar will seek to anchor Montevallo’s offensive line in 2025. The 6-foot-1, 270 pound guard will both protect the Bulldogs’ QB under center and help maintain pressure on the defensive side of the ball at nose guard.

Caleb Merriweather, RB/DE

With the departure of Razareo Conwell, Merriweather will once again be the Bulldogs’ featured running back. The downhill runner is also a threat on the defensive side of the ball, wreaking havoc as a defensive end when called upon.

Kyler Mitchell, OL/DL

Like Guizar, Mitchell will be an anchor in the trenches for the Bulldogs in 2025. The 6-foot-3, 290 pound tackle provides a physically imposing presence and maturity to coach Langer’s squad.

Buck Ross, WR/DB

Ross is one of the most impactful players on the defensive side of the ball for Montevallo. Last year’s leading tackler, the senior brings unparalleled work ethic and versatility to a unit looking to improve in 2025. Ross is a true Swiss army knife, also playing at receiver and return man for the Bulldogs.

Jayshun Shepherd, DL

While only a freshman, Shepherd’s size should give opponents pause. At 6-foot-3, 280-pounds, he will look to make an immediate impact despite his inexperience.

KEY DEPARTURES

Dee Cutts, DB/WR

Cutts was a consistent bright spot for the Bulldogs a season ago, making solo tackles on 45 of his 53 total tackles and earning one interception. Cutts was also the top target on offense for quarterback Jordan Ward a season ago.

Razareo Conwell, RB/CB

Conwell was a beast in the backfield for the Bulldogs during his tenure at Montevallo, powering some of the team’s biggest wins over the years. In his junior year, the back ran for 1,221 yards and 15 touchdowns off 189 carries.

Kelston Hodges, OL/DL

Hodges leaves big shoes to fill on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. The center and defensive tackle was a bright spot for coach Langer a season ago.

Caleb Merriweather

QUICK HITS

BUILDING FROM ROCK BOT-

TOM After enduring a season filled with growing pains—highlighted by a late coaching change, a jump to Class 5A and a 1-9 record— Montevallo is focused on a single mission: get better. Coach Garrett Langer and his team aren’t looking for shortcuts, and they know resilience will be the key to success in one of the toughest classifications in the state. If the Bulldogs can develop a more unified mindset and show maturity in high-pressure moments, they’ll take a meaningful step forward in 2025.

NEW DOGS ON THE BLOCK

With only eight seniors on the roster, the Bulldogs will rely heavily on sophomores and juniors in nearly every position group. From linemen to skill players, many of Montevallo’s contributors are underclassmen getting their first major taste of varsity action. While the inexperience will create challenges early on, the opportunity for growth is massive. If the young players can rise to the occasion, Montevallo may not only improve this fall, but also lay the foundation for long-term success in the years ahead.

DUELING GUNSLINGERS

With former starter Jordan Ward now at Calera, the Bulldogs’ offense entered 2025 with a new identity built around a quarterback battle between Jordan McCarry and Nahjear Naugher. Both athletes bring explosiveness with their legs, and that shift could make Montevallo’s offense more speed-driven and spread-focused than in past years. Now that McCarry has won the job, Naugher will line up at skill positions alongside him, creating more opportunities to utilize the Bulldogs’ athleticism in space and get creative on offense.

2025 Montevallo Roster

84

Buck Ross was one of the biggest bright spots for Montevallo last season as his move to linebacker paid immediate dividends for the Bulldogs. Ross finished the campaign with 84 tackles, the most of any Montevallo player, with 72 of them being solo tackles. While he’ll mainly play in the secondary to shore up a young group, he’ll need to make plays wherever he is on the field to help the defense improve.

KEY NUMBERS

8

With only eight seniors leading the way, Montevallo’s depth and durability will be tested throughout the fall. This puts added pressure on underclassmen to grow up fast and step into big-time roles early. If the youth movement gels, the Bulldogs could become one of the region’s most improved and most dangerous teams by the end of the season.

9

After a dominant 32-0 win over Tarrant to open the year, Montevallo struggled to keep pace in its new 5A region, losing nine straight games to close out the 2024 campaign. The Bulldogs aim to use that losing streak as motivation—knowing they’re capable of better results now that they have more experience in one of Alabama’s most demanding classifications.

Arturo Alvarenga

lineman, either Kyler Mitchell, AJ Guizar or Houston Hilty, but look out for Jayshun Shepherd, a 6-foot3, 280-pound freshman who has the size to make an impact today even if he’s inexperienced. The other defensive end spot will be by committee between Legend Gentry, who is a bit of a wild card coming off a torn ACL, sophomore Logan Pennington and the returning Merriweather.

LINEBACKER

A summer ACL injury to Derrick Richburg devastated this group as he was in line to start at Mike linebacker, but the Bulldogs still have plenty of options. Instead, the main rushing threat is Demarious Gentry, who was the odd man out last year in the 3-4

2024 RESULTS

base but still played a lot ahead of his expanded role this year. Jackson Holsomback and Jacob Fowler will start in the middle, and after three seasons on the team, Langer said it’s time for both of them to step up as starters. They bring stability to the group that also includes Elijah Grillo and Trae Craig on the outside, although Craig can slide into the middle along with Buck Ross, who was the team’s leading tackler last year.

SECONDARY

After losing multiple key pieces from the secondary last season, it’ll be up to a new room of players to establish themselves as the top options when covering passes. The lengthy Marquel Jackson will feature in the group along with

Trae Craig as a hybrid option and Nahjear Naugher in addition to his offensive roles. Their role will be preventing deep balls and big plays that set the Bulldogs back last year.

SPECIAL TEAMS

In a transition year for much of the team, Arturo Alvarenga provides stability at kicker and punter. The returning

starter now fully has the job after splitting with soccer teammate Irving Choto last season, and Langer believes Alvarenga has the leg strength to play in college. Houston Hilty and Legend Gentry are in the running for long snapper while Buck Ross, Nahjear Naugher, Jayden Rutledge and Marquel Jackson will handle returns.

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (3-7)

This is likely to be another year where the differences between Class 5A and 4A are on display. Just like always, Montevallo has a solid group of athletes leading the way, and the potential is there for a successful run-based attack if Caleb Merriweather can be more consistent because of the offensive line. However, while the Bulldogs will likely be a force up front, the other position groups are less encouraging. A lack of experience at linebacker and secondary will force multiple newer faces into bigger roles, and while athletes like Buck Ross, Marquel Jackson and Nahjear Naugher are there, the depth isn’t. That could cause problems on the margins if other teams choose to attack weak links. The passing game is more of the same story. While the Jordan Ward-Dee Cutts connection worked in spots last year, a lack of a second option greatly hurt the offense. That means Ross, Jace Lewis and Jackson will need to bring their best each play to help out a new quarterback. This team could be a playoff side in 4A at their best, but the top end of Class 5A is so good that between Demopolis, Shelby County, Northside and Sipsey Valley, there’s barely any room for new blood. I expect a couple more wins than last season, especially if the defense can play to the standard of Langer’s units from his time as defensive coordinator. That said, the strength of the region around them and lack of internal depth will likely hamper any additional progress towards the playoffs.

Photo by Andrew Simonson

OAK MOUNTAIN

EAGLES

Without question, the Oak Mountain Eagles are in a rebuild, and nobody in the state can deny that. However, from where the program was after the 2022 season, they are leaps and bounds better now.

Shane McComb has now completed two years as the leader of the Eagles, jumping from 1-9 in season one to 4-6 in season two. So that begs that question—how will his team fare this season.

McComb said last year that his goal was to gain respect from the region. Now, that goal has extended higher, as he wants to have a spot in the Class 7A playoffs in November.

While this squad is still relatively young, many players saw playing time last season that gave them experience. As Oak Mountain heads into its 2025 campaign, it is time to find out if that early game action will pay dividends one year later, and ultimately push it to that goal of being one of the four seeds in Class 7A, Region 3.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

Will O’Dell’s career wearing the red, white and blue is now complete, and after three seasons with one guy under center, Oak Mountain will begin a new chapter at quarterback. Charlie Vacarella secured the starting job as a rising sophomore. He is a dual-threat but is small at 5-foot-10 and has some molding to do. Behind him are two more options who he beat out during camp. Andrew Bourland is a rising junior who has been in the program and has shown that he can throw the ball well since he was a freshman. Carson Lewis is the other option, and the junior Thompson transfer is proving to be a solid passer but needs to mold to the offense.

RUNNING BACK

Another year and another bout of development—that is what Marty Myricks heads into his senior year with. Myricks will take on year three as the star running back for the Eagles, and after another statement year in 2024, has grown faster and stronger in the offseason. McComb stated that the back looks like he is a year older and has certainly grown into it with his increased amount of leadership skills. Judd Sachs will remain in the backfield with him as a smaller and shiftier guy who has good zone running skills and will be a threat with his hands but is coming back from a stress fracture he suffered last season.

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 7A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

4-6 (1-6 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Shane McComb

RECORD

5-15 (Third Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Jerad Holder, Clay Machen, Ryan Brewer, Spencer White, Chase Trotter, John Harrellson, John Rodgers

LAST REGION TITLE

None

LAST PLAYOFF GAME

Marty Myricks

RECEIVER

One of the big storylines heading into the season for the Eagles is the question of how they will replace Zach Fitzgerald and Sean Ray, who graduated from the receiving corps after last year. Well after a year away from the gridiron, Cason Lemons is heading back to put on the pads, and with his 6-foot-4 frame will provide some length and good hands in order to go up and get a ball, which he brings over from the basketball court. Fellow basketball teammate Patton Knight is also returning after filling in last year. Boston Brewer will be the big leader though after starting six games in the slot, using that experience to be a crucial component of the receiving corps. He and Joey Carbonie will be relied on to make tough catches when they come about. Isaac Booth and Blaise Hays are younger guys who have shown they can make plays as well. Jayden Aparicio-Bailey and Colby King are two crossover receiving options. Tight end will be by committee.

OFFENSIVE LINE

While the depth along the offensive line is still not ideal, experience has grown, which will be helpful heading into another

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: @ Briarwood

Aug. 29: Pelham

Sept. 5: @ Prattville*

Sept. 12: Thompson*

Sept. 19: @ Tuscaloosa County*

Sept. 26: Bye

Oct. 3: Hoover*

Oct. 10: @ Vestavia Hills*

Oct. 17: Hewitt-Trussville*

Oct. 24: @ Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa*

Oct. 30: @ Chelsea#

*Region Game #Thursday Game

tough schedule. Bradley Haizlip leads the way back at left tackle and has added on another 30 pounds over the offseason to sit at 280 pounds. Dailan Gantt moves over to the offensive front after playing primarily on defense last season, and will take over at right tackle at 6-foot-3, 250 pounds. Luke Kelly will once again start at center, growing in calling out schemes to his surrounding lineman. John Whatley will return to his guard position and is 30 pounds up from last season, while the other guard spot will go to JP Harris. Four more players will serve as backups.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Marty Myricks, RB Myricks is looking to have a stand-out senior year in the backfield this season with his leadership after a strong spring and summer offseason.

Bradley Hazlip, OL After gaining close to 50 pounds over the course of the offseason, Hazlip returns as a strong veteran force on the offensive line to protect a new quarterback.

Jayden Aparicio-Bailey, S

Projected by many as one of the top secondary prospects in the 2027 class, Aparicio-Bailey has a lot of potential to be a top defensive performer.

Ethan Walton, DL Walton earned a spot on the All-County Second Team last year with his 58 tackles, looking to add more as a senior leader on the defensive line.

KEY DEPARTURES

Will O’Dell, QB

O’Dell’s dual-threat ability posed a real problem for opposing defenses last season, and along with his leadership, will be missed in the backfield this year.

Zach Fitzgerald, WR Fitzgerald was a trusted target in 2024 and a leader in the receiving group with 904 receiving yards on 51 receptions in his senior year.

Sean Ray, WR

While he got injured during the season, Ray served as a speed threat that proved to be one of the most dynamic players for Shane McComb.

Caleb Jaworski, DL Jaworski became a leader on the defensive front, and he set the stage for the defensive line that takes the field this season with some depth.

Andrew Bourland

KEY NUMBERS

It’s no secret that the Oak Mountain football program has not had the largest enrollment number over the years. Now, in year three under Shane McComb, the Eagles as a whole have grown from 80 players to 145, coming close to doubling the number of players when he first arrived. As McComb continues to rebuild the program, he hopes that he continues to reel more players in to provide more depth and ultimately produce more and more wins.

In five out of the Eagles’ six losses in 2024, the defense surrendered 35 or more points to opponents, making momentum very difficult to come by on the offensive side of the ball. Oak Mountain gave up the most points to the Hewitt-Trussville Huskies in October with 63, and will need to put together a stronger and firmer defensive stand in order to convert some of those losses into wins for the upcoming season.

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (5-5)

I’ve been seeing some fringe top-10 buzz for Oak Mountain going into this season, and it’s deserved in some aspects. This team has athletes for days, led by a strong running game and some key defensive pieces. However, as Spain Park proved a couple of years ago, you can be a top-10 team in Class 7A, Region 3 and still miss the playoffs simply because there are four top-10 teams in front of you. That’s likely to be the case again with Thompson, Hoover and Hewitt-Trussville looking as strong as ever and Vestavia Hills and Hillcrest right behind them. The Eagles will certainly make progress to join that group vying for the No. 4 seed, but they’ll need a much-improved effort across the board on the defensive side to make that happen. A healthy Jayden Aparicio-Bailey will limit big plays from some of the state’s best receivers, and he has a solid cast around him in the back seven, but they’ll need to step up on the field against elite competition to get stops. If more defensive playmakers step up and the passing game lives up to its potential with whoever wins the competition, they’ll have a fighting chance in region play. However, that would require the Eagles to play better down the stretch in games, and outside of last year’s miracle against Chelsea, that didn’t happen. That combined with a lack of true one-way players behind the starters could prove costly. This will be a very fun team to watch and one that could surprise people. I just don’t know how they can become a state title contender, which is the bar to make the playoffs in 7A football in Birmingham.

Photo by Iron City Studios

Photo by Iron City Studios

2025 Oak Mountain Roster

DEFENSIVE LINE

The depth of the defensive has been one of the top positive trends of the offseason for Oak Mountain, and as the program continues to grow, there is hope the depth will grow with it. Ethan Walton returns for his senior year after being named an AllCounty Second Team defensive lineman last season, and McComb says he is a bigger and stronger pass rusher than he was during those games. Joey Lewis also takes the field again along with Jordan PierceHarris, both of whom will rotate. James McAllister will make the step up after playing and starting a bit at the junior varsity level. Bradley Haizlip, Luke Kelly, John Whatley and Dailan Gantt will also add to the depth and competition and play as crossovers when needed.

LINEBACKER

William Yoder is now the face of the linebacking corps in his third year starting for the team, meaning

he has seen all that Region 3 has to offer as far as offensive schemes go. However, a hole is needing to be filled after his former partner in the group Colton Moore made the move to Thompson. So with Yoder on the interior at 6-foot, 210 pounds and great speed and athleticism to go along with it, Peyton Gamble will join him on the outside. Gamble is a similar size at around 6-foot, 220 pounds, but has proven that he can fill the gaps well and rush the quarterback. JC Schwender will also move down from safety to play in a starting role for his second year as a physical do-it-all guy. Keenan Wolf, Luke Tanner and Gaines Brancato will all back them up, adding some good depth to the group that McComb feels solid about.

SECONDARY

Just like the linebackers, talent is back in the secondary with experience that will prove to be crucial down the road. Star free safety Jayden Aparicio-

Thompson* L 7-42

County* W 49-35

L 10-28

Hills* L 14-42

Hewitt-Trussville* L 0-63

L 36-50 Chelsea W 16-14 *Region Game

Bailey is back once again and is continuing to look to make statements with the eyes of many college programs watching him closely, even as a junior. Another junior in Clay Mills will play on the weak side and has a lot of good ball knowledge to compliment his skills. For corner, Colby King has made a giant jump over the offseason in his comfortability at the boundary corner, while Kennedy Silas and Logan Johnson will be backups along with Blake Silas. Both have a lot of length and have been warriors in working on their technique to utilize this season.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Josh Renfro will be back as the clear kicker after capping off last season with a game-winner over rival Chelsea in the final game of the regular season. McComb said he has added five yards and is getting to be stronger week by week. Gavin Stone will help handle kickoffs alongside him. Gaines Brancato and Jake Alligood will be competing for the long-snapping position as bigger bodies while the return game is seeing strength through agility with Jayden Aparicio-Bailey, Boston Brewer, Blaise Hayes and Colby King all lurking for those spots.

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PELHAM

PANTHERS

After four-straight years of declines in the win column, the Pelham Panthers opted for a new voice at the helm in Ross Newton.

While this is Newton’s first season as a head coach at any level, he has decades of experience as one of Samford’s top assistants as well as stops at UCF, Auburn and Thompson. He brings a plethora of talented assistants, including McAdory OC Austin Gray and Thompson defensive line coach Woodrow Briggs as defensive coordinator, as well as experience in the front office at the FBS level.

While change has been hard, the new coaches have won the players’ respect by building up relationships. That will be essential with a big returning core from last year on both sides of the ball, and the staff is actively working to find the best plays for their playmakers and be explosive, physical and tough.

Class 6A, Region 3 is as tough as ever, but with a bunch of depth and experience to go with their well-versed staff, the hope is there that Pelham can make some noise in year one of the Newton era.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

Even with the new coaching staff, Dylan Smith is still the starting quarterback. Going into his second full season as a starter, he continues to grow both physically and within the system as he’s taken to the new offensive staff’s teaching well and spent time on mechanics. His toughness and competitiveness are two traits that caught Newton’s eye quickly, and he will be one of the biggest leaders this year. The focus now is on making quicker on-time decisions and improving his footwork. The Panthers do have other options at quarterback depending on personnel, but Smith is the unquestioned signal caller.

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 6A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

1-9 (1-5 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Ross Newton

RECORD

First Year

ASSISTANT COACHES

Austin Gray, Woodrow Briggs, Robert Albritton, David Nash, Mitch Bennefield, Ryan Shell, Gabe Gamble, Kevin LeSueur, Mitch Smith, Ryan Dobbs, Taylor Burgess, Houston

Daniel

RUNNING BACK

Tristen Rutledge is back in Pelham after a previous transfer to John Carroll Catholic. At 6-foot, 206 pounds, he’s a bigger asset and a strong leader in the backfield. He’ll take the bulk of the carries and hold it down between the tackles for the Panthers, but he’s far from the only option. Cam Winfield, Gavin McDaniel and Adrian Tellis each bring something different to the position group and are all in contention for the No. 2 job.

RECEIVER

The receiving corps is completely intact with a solid group of four receivers between Marcus Arnold, TJ Copeland,

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: @ Pell City

Aug. 29: @ Oak Mountain

Sept. 5: Chelsea*

Sept. 12: Calera*

Sept. 19: Chilton County*

Sept. 26: Bye

Oct. 3: @ Spain Park*

Oct. 10: Helena*

Oct. 17: @ Benjamin Russell*

Oct. 24: Leeds

Oct. 30: @ Fort Payne#

*Region Game #Thursday Game

Jacob Gibbs and Tristan Darden. Newton sees their high ceiling from their experience as sophomore starters, but

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Marcus Arnold, WR Arnold will be one of the top receiving threats for Pelham, leading a solid group of receivers for Dylan Smith to throw to.

Jacob Gibbs, WR Along with Arnold, Gibbs will look to wreak havoc on opposing defenders with his skills off the ball as a wide receiver. Newton has a potent one-two punch thanks in part to Gibbs’s presence.

Joe Hampton, DE With the departure of Hunter Drawhorn, Hampton will look to step up as the leader of the Panther defense. Hampton’s hard work and versatility should benefit Coach Newton’s defensive schemes early and often.

Dylan Smith, QB Smith will look for a fresh start under center after a tough campaign a season ago. Look for Smith to improve in his mechanics, while toughness and competitiveness are some of his most powerful traits, according to Coach Newton.

KEY DEPARTURES

Jake Garner, P/K Garner shined for the Panthers as a combo punter and kicker in his senior year, averaging 41.6 yards per attempt on his 37 punts with 1,539 total yards. He also went a perfect 20-for-20 on extra points.

Hunter Drawhorn, OLB Drawhorn was a defensive menace for the Panthers in 2024, accruing plenty of tackles and leading the unit throughout the year.

Kalib Porter, RB Porter was a bright spot for Pelham’s offense last season, providing dynamic speed and intelligence to the team. With his departure, Newton will look to fill the void with Tristan Rutledge.

Jacob gibbs

2025 Pelham Roster

it’s now about going beyond their raw talent to focus on the things that will make them truly great. That means a lot of attention to details and weight room work to make sure they’re ready for Smith’s quicker throws, but the good news is that it’s a hard-working bunch

that puts in time on their own to excel. Ethan Drawhorn will mix in as well and has a bright future in Newton’s eyes, and the 6-foot-4 Jordan Winston will play a big factor as well. They’re still working on a tight end or H-back, and Nigel Howard, Ian Tidmore and Will Honeycutt are the

top three options going into fall camp.

OFFENSIVE LINE

William Murphy and Griffin Marshall

have a tight bond on the offensive line, and they’ll be counted on as experienced options on the offensive line. Both stand

Photo by Andrew Simonson

at 260 pounds and set the tone for the line. Elijah Gilleylen and Sawyer Sullivan are both in that range as well with Sullivan the biggest starter at 6-foot-4, 265 pounds. Jacob Bush is smaller at 225 pounds but is another capable starter and is in the mix at center along with Marshall. Jonah Gee and Jackson Heikel are two backups with tons of potential, but there’s even more depth beyond them. The goal is to play to their strengths

4

Since making the playoffs in 2020, Pelham has endured four straight years of decline in the win column. That skid includes a 1-9 finish in 2024. The hope is that with an experienced staff and a strong returning core, the Panthers can flip the script in 2025 and begin a climb back toward postseason contention.

and use their flexibility to slot in the starting five into their best spots.

DEFENSIVE LINE

While Newton and defensive coordinator Woodrow Briggs believe that each of the three defensive position groups have depth and competition, it’s the defensive line’s potential that excites them most. After a big junior season, Uriah Barginere has big expectations

KEY NUMBERS

3

Marcus Arnold, Jacob Gibbs and TJ Copeland form a trio of experienced wideouts returning for quarterback Dylan Smith. All three played major roles as sophomores and are now entering their third season together. Their chemistry and playmaking ability could be a difference-maker in close games as they look to elevate Pelham’s offense under a new system.

going into his senior season. At 6-foot, 270 pounds, he is smart and athletic, and his hips are improving as his body changes and toughness improves. Joe Hampton is another guy who colleges have eyes on, and as a hard-working, versatile edge, he’s one of the biggest leaders on the team. Jacob Armstead will also return up front after breaking out as a fill-in starter in the back half of last season.

7

The one thing Ross Newton won’t have control over is the schedule, which was set before he got to Pelham and has seven playoff teams across the 10-game slate. Add on a Class 7A matchup against Oak Mountain, and the Panthers will have a slew of challenges throughout the season. However, Pelham came within a touchdown of beating Chelsea, Calera and Leeds last year, so the opportunity to flip those into wins could well be there.

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2024 RESULTS

Pell City L 7-35

Oak Mountain L 20-38

Chelsea* L 33-36

@ Calera* L 33-35

@ Chilton County* W 37-14

Bye

Spain Park* L 7-42

@ Helena* L 2-42

Benjamin Russell* L 0-27

@ Leeds L 28-35

Fort Payne L 10-38

*Region Game

LINEBACKER

Each of the linebackers can play multiple positions, something that can be partly attributed to their work ethic. Benji Augsburger has the most experience of the group after a solid year last year, and despite battling through some injuries, he has the potential to be the best linebacker. Depending on the package, two to four linebackers will be on the field,

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (5-5)

The prediction may not show it, but I have faith in the Panthers to make some major strides in year one of the Ross Newton era. The core that Mike Vickery built last year was very solid, albeit very young and inexperienced. I always had hope that regardless of who was in charge this season, Pelham would stop the skid and get back into playoff contention. Having continuity in the passing game with a returning starter and a completely intact receiving corps will pay massive dividends this year, especially if the offensive line also improves and Dylan Smith has more time to make smart decisions and let his receivers get open. The front three on defense should be able to match up with just about anyone as well. This team will go as far as its linebackers and secondary go. It’s a high-potential group on paper, but now it’s about players like Chim Ajinwo, TJ Copeland, Kam May and Benji Augsberger to reach that potential and prevent the big plays that cost them in games against high-powered offenses a year ago. The top end of this region is very good right now, probably good enough to keep Pelham out of the playoffs, but the Panthers should be in just about any game that they play this year. Expect a big step in the right direction.

TJ Copeland

Tristan Darden

and Brayden Patterson, Mykah Bland and Dylan Palmier are all working within the group alongside new basketball recruit Jaylen Jackson. They’re still rotating linebacker positions, but Newton loves their appetite to tackle and get on the ball.

SECONDARY

After starting corner Javian Gee

graduated, his former running-mate Chim Ajinwo will step up as the main defensive back. Newton said he has lots of natural instincts and can play both corner and safety. TJ Copeland will run opposite at him and has the intangibles and skills to be a natural at the position. Over at safety, Kam May will once again be the primary option and will play a big role in the

QUICK HITS

DAWN OF A NEW-TON ERA

After four straight seasons of declining win totals, Pelham hit the reset button with the hire of Ross Newton as head coach. Backed by FBS and state championship-level coaching experience, Newton and his staff bring a fresh identity and higher expectations to a talented roster. Early buy-in from players and a focus on physicality, toughness and precision have created a renewed energy around the program. Now, the Panthers will look to fulfill its promise.

RETURNING FIREPOWER

Returning quarterback Dylan Smith leads a skilled core of offensive weapons, including a fully intact wide receiver room and a beefed-up backfield featuring Tristen Rutledge. Smith has grown under the new staff’s tutelage and brings leadership and competitive fire into his second full year as a starter. His top targets give him proven playmakers, while the Panthers’ multiple-look offense aims to unlock their full potential with better tempo and quicker decision-making.

2024 STATS

secondary along with Hollis Davis, who can play both safety and nickel. Look out for Nic Vinson as a potential breakout star. While he hasn’t played since early in middle school, the junior’s length and skills as a basketball player have the coaching staff excited. Junior Turner Engels and sophomore Jeremiah Murphy will fill the rotation out as depth pieces and complete a talented group that Newton believes can make a big impact.

SPECIAL TEAMS

One of the biggest questions for Pelham is at kicker and punter after multi-year starter Jake Garner graduated. He provided a reliable leg for the Panthers and made last year’s All-County Team ahead of joining Newton’s longtime team at Samford. Freddy Lopez-Diaz will take his place with all three duties, but the coaches are actively recruiting the Panthers’ powerhouse soccer program and other internal options to help at other positions.

Cameron Winfield

“Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it.”

George Halas, NFL pioneer and Chicago Bears founder and owner

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We are proud to be a part of this community, and every day we give our best to take care of the people and the resources here.

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Built to last

Marshall

and Murphy’s lifelong bond anchors

Pelham’s offensive line

Written by DAVE DOMESCIK | Photos by JEREMY RAINES AND FILE

BBefore the snap, before the grind of the trenches and the pressure of Friday night lights, there’s a glance. A presence. A trust that doesn’t need words.

For Pelham seniors Griffin Marshall and William Murphy, that unspoken connection has been years in the making—founded not just in football, but in a deep, enduring friendship that began back in third grade.

“I’d have to say during elementary school from third to fifth grade was really building a friendship,” Marshall said. “And then in middle school, whenever we started playing football together, that’s when it clicked.”

Murphy remembers it the same way.

“I came back to Pelham halfway through third grade, and I was put in the same class as Griffin,” he said. “We kind of just became friends from there.”

Now, they form the core of Pelham’s offensive line, a unit that will be key to any success the Panthers hope to have in year one of the Ross Newton era. More than just teammates, Marshall and Murphy are mirror images of dedication, grit and quiet leadership—two linemen whose chemistry can’t be coached because it’s been forged over a lifetime.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Long before they were anchoring Pelham’s front line, Marshall and Murphy were just two “big, unhealthy kids,” as Marshall puts it, who slowly began to realize their potential through football. Both picked up the sport early—Marshall in kindergarten, Murphy a few years later—and both

credit the game with shaping their character.

“I had some behavioral issues in elementary and middle school,” Murphy said. “Football definitely helped eliminate that. It gave me a reason to not get in trouble. And throughout all that, Griffin has always been there—either backing me up or breaking up fights.”

They didn’t just find discipline in football—they found purpose. And they found each other.

“We know each other’s games really well,” Marshall said. “I know some things he can’t pick up, and he knows the things I can’t pick up. We’re different, but we complement each other.”

Murphy agrees, emphasizing Marshall’s ability to set the tone early in games while maintaining the same competitive edge.

“He’s really good at coming out strong,” Murphy said about Marshall. “I take a little longer to ramp up, but I’m good at keeping the fire going through the game. I think we balance each other out.”

BROTHERS IN THE TRENCHES

On game days, you’ll usually find Marshall and Murphy quietly preparing side by side. No flashy speeches. No antics. Just focus.

“We’re both very quiet warm-up guys,” Marshall said. “We like to get in our heads and get ready. Our presence together is enough to know that it’s go time.”

That mentality has helped set the tone for Pelham’s offensive line—one of the most experienced and cohesive groups on the team.

Murphy starts at left tackle, while Marshall rotates between center and left guard. Together, they’re not only leaders but also mentors to the younger linemen.

“If I see him doing something wrong, I’ll coach him up, just like I do with the other guys,” Murphy said. “I’m going to get on him, but it’s love. I’m trying to make him better.”

That honesty goes both ways. The accountability they’ve built over the years has translated into a standard of toughness and unity that reflects Pelham’s new identity under coach Newton.

“The offensive line room, we’ve built a great locker room culture,” Murphy said. “We’ve never got problems with guys getting in trouble. We keep them straight.”

NEW ERA, SAME FOUNDATION

After a 1-9 campaign in 2024, Pelham hit the reset button, hiring Newton, a longtime Samford assistant with stops at UCF and powerhouse Thompson, as head coach. Newton brought in a talented staff and a renewed emphasis on physicality and precision.

That approach suits Marshall and Murphy just fine.

“I know what school I’m fighting for,” Marshall said. “People say what they want, but I’ve never really cared about that. Wearing the Pelham jersey with William, it’s a great feeling.”

The Panthers bring back a strong core of returning starters, including quarterback Dylan Smith and a

talented receiver group. But it’s the lines, particularly the offensive front, that Newton believes will be the bedrock of any success.

Marshall and Murphy are leading the way, each weighing in at 260 pounds and bringing experience and versatility to a group that also includes Elijah Gillian, Sawyer Sullivan and Jacob Bush.

BEYOND FOOTBALL

For Marshall and Murphy, this season is about more than wins. It’s about resilience. Growth. Brotherhood.

“We were both big kids. Over the years, we could tell we could do more with ourselves,” Marshall said. “William’s the best at flipping the mindset when a situation is difficult. I get him started at the beginning of the game, and he keeps me going to the end.”

Their bond hasn’t gone unnoticed. Teammates pick up on it. Coaches lean on it. And the Pelham community, which Murphy has called home his entire life, rallies behind it.

“I’ve lived in Pelham my entire life. Same house, same neighborhood,” Murphy said. “This community, I know they’re behind us.”

He pauses, then grins.

“Up until eighth grade, I thought the quarterback snapped the ball. Now look at me—I’m protecting him.”

Marshall chuckles. “Life is a lot easier to do with someone else in it.”

THE ROAD AHEAD

Class 6A, Region 3 remains one of the toughest in the state, and Pelham’s 2025 schedule includes seven playoff teams from last year. But Newton and his staff aren’t shying away from the challenge. And neither are Marshall and Murphy.

“Resilience—that’s our story,” Marshall said.

Whether they’re opening holes for Tristan Rutledge in the run game or protecting Dylan Smith in the pocket, Marshall and Murphy are ready for whatever comes next. They’ve already been through so much together. A little pressure in the trenches? That’s nothing.

“I think we’re going to surprise people this year,” Murphy said. “We’ve been down, but we’ve got a new energy. This is our team now.”

And when the lights go on, and the crowd roars and the ball is about to be snapped, you’ll find them right where they’ve always been—side by side, ready for the fight.

SHELBY COUNTY

WILDCATS

The Shelby County Wildcats proved a lot of doubters wrong as they finally began realizing their potential in 2024.

While the 2024 season ended in the same fashion as the 2023 season did, the road to that first road exit was a night-and-day difference. After sneaking into the postseason with a 2-8 record in 2023, the Wildcats challenged for the region title against perennial powerhouse Demopolis last year and was a play away from beating Citronelle at home in the playoffs.

Those gains are a direct result of the cultural transformation under coach Zeb Ellison. Now entering his sixth season at the helm, his players have fully bought into a culture where hard work and togetherness breed success.

A blistering run-heavy attack and solid defensive play didn’t hurt either, and this year’s group will bring more of the same stylistically. With nine starters back on offense and eight on defense, this year’s team is full of upperclassman leaders forged through the fires of starting as underclassmen.

As a result, they’ll be one of the most experienced and disciplined teams in the region, and that may lead to even greater success in 2025.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

It’s hard to find many quarterbacks across the state who will be four-year starters in 2025, but that is exactly what Ryan Sipes is for Shelby County. Sipes has effectively grown up in the public eye after starting since his freshman year, but over the last two years, his off-the-field personal growth has coincided with some of the best performances of his career. As a result of that experience and first-in, last-out work ethic, he is comfortable in the scheme, makes better decisions under pressure and leads by example with his selflessness. As Ellison prepares for life without Sipes in 2026, expect Skylar Smith, Clayton Ellison and Lane Foster to get reps as backups.

RUNNING BACK

Many around the state became well acquainted with Anthony Palmieri during his All-State campaign last year. Fewer know that he wasn’t the day one starter. That was Devan Alexander, who rushed for more than 350 yards in the first two games last year before a

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 5A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

8-3 (5-1 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Zeb Ellison

RECORD

19-23 (Sixth Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Lee Hibbs, Edmond Buie, Shannon Jones, Chase Cornelius, Austin Barnhill, Nathan Collins, Patrick Morse, Thomas Poe

LAST REGION TITLE 2008

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2024

Devan Alexander

season-ending injury forced Palmieri into a more central role. Now with Palmieri graduated and Alexander healthy, Alexander is ready to reclaim his dominant role in the backfield. He’ll form another one-two punch this year with Tyson Duncan, who competed for the quarterback spot last year but through offseason work, he is up to 6-foot-1, 205 pounds and runs extremely well. Ellison sees Duncan as the home run threat with more top-end speed, but he believes Alexander can get there too with work.

RECEIVER

The Wildcats have depth for days in the receiver room with plenty of returning faces. Andres McGinnis remains a matchup threat for any defensive back while Ethan Hall and Skylar Smith present two more solid and athletic options. Combined with Clayton Ellison and CJ Moore, there is a good group of five to rotate in, but the main goal of the summer has been finding spots on the

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: Lincoln

Aug. 29: @ Holtville

Sept. 5: Sipsey Valley*

Sept. 12: Jemison*

Sept. 19: @ Northside*

Sept. 26: @ St. Clair County

Oct. 3: @ Demopolis*

Oct. 10: @ Montevallo*

Oct. 17: Selma*

Oct. 25: Bye

Oct. 30: East Limestone#

*Region game #Thursday game

field where each receiver will shine as a starter. Growth has been a theme of the offseason as they work on and off the field to become better assets for the offense, but a run-first system means the best blockers will have the best chance to crack the starting lineup.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Last year, the offensive line fueled

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Cooper Pennington, LB

Pennington’s athleticism continues to make him one of the top tacklers in the county while serving as one the leaders of the Wildcats.

Ryan Sipes, QB

Going into his fourth season as the Shelby County starter, Sipes has grown leaps and bounds and is ready to lead the offense one final time.

Devan Alexander, RB

With injuries now behind him, Alexander is poised for a standout season as the primary rusher in the Wildcats one-two punch.

Eli Carlisle, OL/DL/LB

Carlisle is versatile enough to play anywhere on the front seven and make big plays on both sides of the ball while tackling and blocking.

KEY DEPARTURES

Anthony Palmieri, RB Palmieri was an All-State Honorable Mention after handling one of the biggest workloads in the county to fuel Shelby County’s dynamic rushing attack.

Eli Holliman, CB

The two-time All-County selection and 2023 All-State Honorable Mention is off to Erskine with Palmieri after another lockdown season in the secondary.

Campbell Aderholt, LB

Another key member of the Wildcats linebacker room, Aderholt made plays for the defense to help his team secure multiple crucial games.

TJ Minton, K

Minton provided much-needed stability to the kicking game over the course of his two seasons as a starter.

QUICK HITS

COOKING UP SUCCESS It’s hard to imagine Shelby County’s success without the offensive line last season. Each of the starting five expertly opened holes for Devan Alexander and Anthony Palmieri to burst through and gain a plethora of yards with each carry. They even have a name for their group: the Pancake Factory, for their ability to create pancake blocks. While All-County selection Ethan Burnette graduated, many of the same Pancake Factory workers are back for another shift in 2025, so expect Jonovan Smith, Eli Carlisle, Hunter King and company to work hard at their craft again this year.

NOT THEIR FIRST RODEO Shelby County has one of the most veteran-laden lineups in all of the area with nine returning offensive starters and eight defensive starters back. Many of those starters have been playing since their freshman year after Ellison forced them into action early on. Now, many of them are among the 13 seniors on the Wildcats and are the team’s best leaders. Players like Cooper Pennington, Cale Blevins, Ryan Sipes, Jonovan Smith, Hunter King, Eli Carlisle, Andres McGinnis and others hold each other accountable and know the importance of doing the little things.

THE ROAD WARRIORS Remarkably, Shelby County won all five of its road games last year. That road success must continue into 2025 as the Wildcats have a key fourgame road stretch in the middle of the season that includes two of Shelby County’s three losses in St. Clair County and Demopolis, two of the top three teams in the region in Demopolis and Northside and their biggest rival in Montevallo. Ending the road stretch at least 3-1 will go a long way in determining if the Wildcats can host another playoff game.

2025 Shelby County Roster

KEY NUMBERS

1,846

Anthony Palmieri led the entire county last year with 1,846 yards as the Wildcats shifted to almost exclusively running the ball. Palmieri set the tone for how dangerous Shelby County’s offensive system could be with the right running back and offensive line, and that is something that Devan Alexander hopes to continue. Alexander rushed for 156 yards and two touchdowns against Lincoln and 131 yards against Holtville before his season-ending injury, and with many of the same linemen in front of him returning, expect similarly eye-popping numbers from him this season.

Cooper Pennington made another All-County First Team appearance with 96 tackles as a junior. What’s more, 83 of those were solo tackles, showcasing his knack for getting to the ball-carrier and bringing them to ground quickly before backup is needed. His play-making ability secured him an opportunity to play at the FCS level, but he’ll now once again lead a veteran defense in search of the first playoff win of his football career.

Shelby County’s nearly run-exclusive attack, and now, the self-proclaimed “pancake factory” has a little extra flavor in their recipe. That would be Jackson Hughes, who returns to Columbiana after a few years starting on Thompson’s offensive line. At 6-foot-5, 290 pounds, he immediately poses a matchup threat to anyone at the Class 5A level. He’ll slide into a veteran group, including the 6-foot-1, 280-pound Jonavan Smith, 5-foot-10, 230-pound Eli Carlisle, 6-foot, 260-pound Hunter King and 5-foot-10, 240-pound Anderson Jacobs. Ellison says the offensive line takes pride in their craft and will once again determine how successful the team is.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Ellison has a strong group of four

players to make up the three-man front. Wyatt Brasher is the anchor of the line at defensive end and has grown into one of the players the coaching staff trusts the most. Eli Carlisle can play anywhere on the front seven and even on the offensive line thanks to his physicality, strength and experience. In between them will be Trey Morgan at nose guard, and the coaching staff is impressed by his hard work and willingness to learn. However, the best athletes on the team will work their way up front as well, which is why you shouldn’t be surprised when Dominic Woods, Jackson Hughes and Anderson Jacobs line up in the front three.

LINEBACKER

Cooper Pennington has shown Division-I potential for years, and he’s

2024 RESULTS

@ Lincoln W 57-10 Holtville W 31-14

@ Sipsey Valley* W 15-7

@ Jemison* W 42-6

Northside* W 35-28

St. Clair County L 21-28

Demopolis* L 8-35

Montevallo* W 42-16

@ Selma* W 43-6

Bye

@ East Limestone W 43-7

Citronelle# L 9-14

*Region Game

#Playoff Game

Dominic Woods

finally realized that with an offseason commitment to Mercer.

Ellison calls the two-sport All-County star a coach’s dream, and he brings a tough, physical streak to go with his 6-foot-2, 230-pound frame. The potential is there for an All-State season from the senior, but the linebacker group doesn’t stop with him.

Cale Belvins shares many of the same traits as Pennington such as his mental toughness and physicality. Eli Carlisle will spend a great deal of time on the back end of the front seven, and Tyler Young is on pace to join him after a fantastic offseason of work.

The middle linebacker depth carries over to the outside, where Lane Rutherford, Noah Dunnaway and Garrett Barnes are battling to see who the most physical player is to get Ellison’s nod.

SECONDARY

After another All-County defensive back graduated for the second-straight year, this year’s group may make it three in a row. Andres McGinnis snagged the highest interception haul of

anyone not named Anquon Fegans last year, and his playmaking ability didn’t stop there as he brought back multiple for touchdowns. He’ll anchor the backfield alongside a three-year starter in Ethan Hall. Skylar Smith has come a long way since the start of the offseason and he’ll be a key piece along with cornerback Brendan Robinson. Clayton Ellison will be a key rotation piece as well.

SPECIAL TEAMS

After two years with TJ Minton as kicker, it’s time for another soccer star to step up in Remy Martinez. Ellison said he showed great leadership skills in the spring and slid right into the group thanks to his knack for the weight room and willingness to learn and work as hard as everyone else. Expect Cooper Pennington and Ryan Sipes to once again split punting duties while Andres McGinnis and Devan Alexander bring speed to the return game. Cale Blevins will hold down the long snapper spot.

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (8-2)

Offense Total Points: 346

Per Game: 31.5

County Rank: 3rd

Defense Points Allowed: 171

Per Game: 15.5

County Rank: 2nd

I don’t expect much, if any, fall-off from Shelby County going into 2025. There are so many returning pieces from last year’s successful squad, and they all fit the mold of what made the Wildcats so successful in 2024. The culture is so strong within this group that it’s hard to imagine many mental lapses to lead to a drop in production and results. Two things prevent me from predicting an improvement from last year. The first is the likelihood that Demopolis will be Demopolis–that is, an extremely well-oiled state title contender. There’s little shame in a loss to the Tigers, but it will likely decide the region title once again. The other is the possibility that somebody will crack the code on how to stop Shelby County’s offense now that it’s on tape. Like last year with St. Clair County, my guess is at least one team will stop it and pick up a win. It’s still incredibly hard to stop a dominant run game though, especially when paired with a lights-out defense. The only big question is if the Wildcats will give up more big pass plays without Eli Holliman, but the veteran leaders back in the secondary like Andres McGinnis and Ethan Hall give me confidence that this is one of the most complete teams in the area. Continued dominance and a reshuffling of the playoff region pairings should get this team into at least the second round.

Success that goes be yond the scoreboard

SPAIN PARK

JAGUARS

When officially closing the book on the 2024 season, many will ask what the biggest storylines were and who to watch out for heading into 2025. Spain Park was certainly a topic of conversation in both of those answers.

There is wonder on if last year’s 12-1 campaign for Tim Vakakes and his squad was the best in school history. That can be subjective depending on who you are, but now the real wonder for the Jaguars is how they answer it.

While this has always been the case, the players on this year’s Spain Park squad expect to win, and they’ll have a huge target on their back in doing so.

With a lot of those core players from last year’s defense back and a star quarterback who is already committed to a high-profile college, there is no reason to think that the Jags can’t do it again, or even go higher.

However, this result will only come if they look forward and never back, because that makes all the difference in the world in a successful season and devastation.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

As if he did not cement his legacy enough already, Brock Bradley has the ultimate opportunity to go out on top in his final season as a Spain Park Jaguar. He’s taking every measure possible to make that happen, and it has started in the weight room, as Vakakes has said he is already starting to prepare for the size he’ll see at Clemson. The quarterback will have to stay calm through the tough moments though and keep his composure, especially as he prepares sophomore Nash Davis to step up once he is gone.

RUNNING BACK

Big holes are having to be filled with the departures of Dakari Shanks and CJ Cowley out of the backfield, as both players put together a highlight reel on the field though. Spain Park feels that it will be fine though with Nik McKissic stepping up as the primary back. The young sophomore is learning to run behind his pads at 6-foot, 165 pounds. With him will be rising junior Hudson Hibbard, who transitions over from the quarterback spot due to his footwork and knowledge of the offense. JD Thompson is also a sophomore that is

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 6A, Region 3

2024 RECORD 12-1 (6-0 Region 3)

HEAD COACH

Tim Vakakes

RECORD 22-11 (Fourth Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

David Bush, Darius Taylor, Danny Kimble, Daris Robinson, Taylor Diamond, Bryan Tull, Matt Thompson, Brandon Berry, TJ Simmons, Jordan Pannell, Daron Arrington, Lincoln Clark, Carey Moorer, Matt Hall

LAST REGION TITLE 2024

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2024

Brock Bradley

rising in talent at will be shifty at 5-foot-10, 155 pounds. Vakakes says it will be a year of running by committee, and they will be fine considering the blueprint that was left from Shanks and Cowley.

RECEIVER

Possibly the biggest headline of the offense heading into 2025 is the replacement of star wide receiver Corey Barber, and the Jags have an answer that they believe is going to be super beneficial. Kena Rego has made his way over from Tuscaloosa Academy to be a new top guy for Bradley on the receiving end at 5-foot-10, 170 pounds. He can use his shiftiness and agility to go make plays. Mason McClure is a rising junior who also shows potential to be a key contributor and can play anywhere along the formation. With them will be Barrett Price, who is a sophomore that is seen as a workaholic, and Weston Brock, a rising senior that will play in some key role positions. Connor Greb, Sawyer Pearson, Landrick Hallman and Graham Blair will also be options as tight end for Bradley to air it out to, and Vakakes feels they all need to see the field.

OFFENSIVE LINE

After graduating some key pieces of the offensive line, some may wonder if

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: @ Sparkman

Aug. 29: Hoover

Sept. 5: Bye

Sept. 12: Helena*

Sept. 19: @ Benjamin Russell*

Sept. 26: James Clemens

Oct. 3: Pelham*

Oct. 10: @ Chelsea*

Oct. 17: @ Calera*

Oct. 24: Chilton County*

Oct. 30: Gardendale#

*Region Game #Thursday Game

Spain Park will succeed as much as last year’s squad did. Well, Vakakes believes the potential is there with the mesh this group has. Senior left tackle Hudson Reed leads the way once again and is due for another solid season, having gotten up to just under 290 pounds over the offseason. Reed Oatridge will also get his time to shine at the other tackle spot, and after not seeing a lot of action, the 6-foot-7, 290-pound senior will be able to prove his development on the field. Senior Jackson Bryant is under center at 265 pounds, and junior Nic Hendrix will have a guard spot at 250 pounds. Isaac Harris and Sammy Camargo are both juniors who will be competing for the fifth spot over time, but Vakakes has seen solid development

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Brock Bradley, QB

The Clemson commit heads into his senior season with a ton of momentum on his side after being an All-County First Team quarterback in 2024.

Joe Cross, DB Cross ended last year with five interceptions and four pass breakups, becoming one of the top secondary forces in the county heading into this fall.

EJ Kerley, LB

Kerley’s 140 tackles was good enough for second in the county in 2024, being just one of the reasons why he will help the Jags defense in a big way.

Kena Rego, WR

The Tuscaloosa Academy transfer was one of the top receiving threats in Class 2A last season and will be a dynamic threat in the passing game for Bradley.

KEY LOSSES

CJ Cowley, RB

Cowley makes his way to the other side of the city to play for the Hoover Bucs after a dynamic sophomore season that garnered a lot of attention.

Arnold Bush, CB

The outgoing cornerback proved to be one of the leaders in the secondary for Spain Park, leaving a hole to fill in that department this season.

Corey Barber, WR

Heading to play for Clay-Chalkville, Barber leaves the team after being arguably the best receiver in the county and one of the best deep threats in the state.

Dakarai Shanks, RB

The lead back for the Jags heads to Troy after running for almost 1,300 yards in his senior season, leaving a huge hole to fill in the backfield.

5-YEAR WIN TREND

2025 SPAIN PARK Roster

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (8-2)

After the best regular season in school history a year ago, the Jags should be right in the mix once again this year. Spain Park will deal with some significant losses on both sides of the field and especially will need to ensure its run game can complement the passing game to keep defenses on their toes. That said, having a future Power 4 quarterback in Brock Bradley cures many ails, and I firmly believe Kena Rego is a star in the making and will thrive as the top target. The back side of the defense has playmakers for days at linebacker and safety, but continued success will likely come down to how the new starters acclimate to their roles. Because of that, there may be some growing pains early on, especially against quality teams like Hoover, Helena and Benjamin Russell in the first half of the season. I think the Jags will lose a couple close games against tough competition as a result, but make no mistake–this team will be in title contention this November. Spain Park is too well-coached and talent-laden to revert back to old ways.

and will to learn out of both. Nonetheless, expect some learning curves, but a group that holds each other accountable.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Just like the offensive line, the defensive front is filled with seniors, but ones who are stepping into bigger shoes. Zion McLain steps up at 6-foot-2, 230 pounds and has a really high motor about him that drives his energy. Brady Heath has been described as a bull in a china shop and is aggressive at 240 pounds. On the smaller end, Ethan Boykin sits at 205 pounds and 5-foot-10, but has a quick twitch that allows him to play fast. Those three have been in the system and are comfortable in what they do. Kristan Carter will also step up as a junior, and at 5-foot-9, 255 pounds, is just difficult to defend. Jaylen Bates will be alongside him as well in a group

that Vakakes sees as relentless, a trait that fits the Jags’ standard.

LINEBACKER

Spain Park feels solid about its linebackers this season as EJ Kerley and JD Bonamy both return to their respective roles after being instrumental to the defense as juniors. Kerley continues to get stronger in the weight room and has to be slowed down at times in practice due to his drive. Bonamy will be back on the outside and is proving to be a solid leader as well with his knowledge if the game. Kam Lewis and Evan Taylor will both be juniors behind them, ready to fill their steed, along with Kian Taylor and TK Slaughter.

SECONDARY

The secondary is scattered with guys stepping into roles, however, the group has

KEY NUMBERS

12

The 2024 season was a record-setting one in many ways for the Spain Park Jaguars, and while they did not set a school record for wins, the Jags posted arguably the best season in program history with a 12-1 year. Spain Park capped off an undefeated season for the first time and dominated opponents week after week. That as a whole is good for the program’s reputation, but it will be a high bar to reach for a second consecutive year.

QUICK HITS

HOW MUCH BETTER CAN HE GET? Brock Bradley is a name that when you say it at Spain Park, everybody knows what you mean. Bradley has etched his name in Jaguars history with his performance as a quarterback, and he still has one more season to go before his journey in the blue and black is complete. After passing for over 2,500 yards last season, it is not out of the realm of reason to think he has peaked. However, Tim Vakakes believes that his quarterback can have an even better year as a senior, as he makes everyone around him that much better.

DO NOT LOOK BACK The 2024 campaign was a historic one for Spain Park, but now, it has to move on. The big thing that many are wondering is if the Jaguars will look back on the season too often and make comparisons as the weeks go by. However, they do not have the luxury of doing so. The whole team expects to win, and in order to do that, Spain Park does not need to talk about last year, but instead keep moving forward and doing the hard things consistently, as Vakakes wants them to do. It will be a crucial component of being force this year.

NEXT MAN UP The Jaguars lost two of their best skill players in rising senior wide receiver Corey Barber and rising junior running back CJ Cowley as transfers. Those two were two of Brock Bradley’s most versatile weapons and made play after play without hesitation. With them gone, it’s the next men up for Spain Park. Luckily, Kena Rego has come into the program and will fulfill a huge role as one of the leading wide receivers. Adjustments will have to be made, but a smooth transition could be a lethal strength in the Jags offense this season.

2,667

A shock to absolutely nobody, Brock Bradley had a fantastic season as a junior and is destined for an even better senior year. The Clemson commit continues to turn heads after posting 2,667 passing yards last year, racking up 32 passing touchdowns while completing 66 percent of his passes. Bradley has already cemented his legacy as one of the best in the school’s history, but time will only tell much deeper that legacy runs.

Photo by Iron City Studios

2024 RESULTS

Sparkman W 38-7

@ Hoover W 39-37

Bye

@ Helena* W 28-26

Benjamin Russell* W 42-15

@ James Clemens W 34-24

@ Pelham* W 42-7

Chelsea* W 31-3

Calera* W 42-7

@ Chilton County* W 37-6

@ Gardendale W 35-12

McGill-Toolen# W 44-35

Russell County# W 45-30

@Saraland# L 19-45

*Region Game

#Playoff game

2024 STATS

Offense

Total Points: 476

Per Game: 36.6

County Rank: 1st

Defense

Points Allowed: 254

Per Game: 19.5

County Rank: 4th

Mason McClure

two solid leaders in seniors Joe Cross and Carter Holloway at safety. Both provide certain skills as Cross is speedy and agile, while Holloway is a hard hitter. Those two will help lead a group of competing corners in senior Xander McClure and juniors Tristan Hill and Jaylen Mosley, three guys on the edge who have good ball skills.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Having to replace kickers in high school is

no easy task, and Spain Park is facing that now with Josh Tulloss having graduated. Garrett Hoffman is in the driver’s seat for the kicker spot, while Zach Jones-Van Pelt and Rhys Jones will battle for the punting position, with John Lutenbacher returning as the senior long snapper. Meanwhile the team has some solid options in the return game with Kena Rego, Mason McClure, Barrett Price, Tristan Hill and JD Thompson all being in contention.

THOMPSON

WARRIORS

After a year away from the mountaintop, the Thompson Warriors reclaimed their spot atop the largest classification in Alabama with their fifth Class 7A state championship in the past six seasons.

Their run to the 2024 title was full of adversity from overcoming three one-point overtime losses to early offensive struggles, but at the end of the year, there was little doubt who the best team in the state was.

The scariest part for opponents? Many of those contributors are coming back for this year, and some beyond into 2026, setting the Warriors up for repeated success like the past decade under coach Mark Freeman.

While they’ll have new players in new spots after key losses up front and on the defense, Thompson hopes to use the early part of the season to smooth out any rough edges and prepare to chase down a historic seventh championship in program history.

MEET THE TEAM TEAM

QUARTERBACK

Most quarterbacks are lucky to get two-and-a-half seasons of experience as a starting quarterback. Most aren’t Trent Seaborn though, who enters his junior year with 31 starts. He’s already shown remarkable arm strength for his age, daring to make tough throws and put balls where only his receivers can catch them. He has a high football IQ derived from hours practicing and studying with coaches. However, it’s his leadership and maturity which set him apart. He always works hard to improve his game, including his run game, which remains the last big piece to come together for one of the top prospects in the 2027 class.

RUNNING BACK

For the second-straight year, the Warriors lost their top running back in Mike Dujon. However, for the second-straight year, they’ll turn to their No. 2 back from a year ago to fill that void. RJ Evans proved to be a quick partner for Dujon a year ago and also excelled at catching out of the backfield. He won’t be

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 7A, Region 3

2024 RECORD

11-3 (6-1 Region 3) Class 7A State Champions

HEAD COACH

Mark Freeman RECORD

105-23 (11th Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Brad Costanzo, Shawn DeFoor, Jordan Robertson, Trey Clark, Tyler Scozzaro, Davoris Thomas, Michael Ramil, Shawn Sutton, William Watts, Tyron King, Parker Montgomery, Jordan Long, Dakota Chapman, Lavarus Peagler, Jonathan Hagler, John Bullen, Richard Bevil, Mike Vickery

LAST REGION TITLE 2023

LAST PLAYOFF GAME 2024

Trent Seaborn

alone though as Thompson will run multiple backs just like in years past. While Freeman said each back has speed and hands, he said they each have a unique skillset. Newcomer KJ Jackson will look to make an impact in his senior season while Urijah Casey and Jafari Pegues prepare behind them as sophomores aiming to be the lead backs next year.

RECEIVER

Last year, the big question was who would step up for the four receivers that Thompson lost due to graduation or transfers. Now, they have an embarrassment of riches back for the next two seasons. Junior Darion Moseley and sophomore Dedrick Kimbrough each had active offseasons receiving offers from top SEC schools after their performances a year ago. Moseley broke out first as a quick option with reliable hands, and he capped the year off with the state title game’s Most Outstanding Player award. Kimbrough evolved into the deep-ball threat that Seaborn lacked for the early part of the season and continues to grow his game. Pryce Lewis remains the not-so-secret

2025 SCHEDULE Cam Pritchett

Aug. 21: Carver-Montgomery#

Aug. 29: @ Grayson (Georgia)

Sept. 5: Tuscaloosa County*

Sept. 12: @ Oak Mountain*

Sept. 19: Vestavia Hills*

Sept. 26: @ Clay-Chalkville

Oct. 3: @ Hewitt-Trussville*

Oct. 10: Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa*

Oct. 17: @ Hoover*

Oct. 24: @ Prattville*

Oct. 31: Bye

*Region Game #Thursday Game

weapon of the group as his elusiveness makes him a big option, especially since he’s bigger and faster this year. Look for tight end Tanner Ehmen to factor into the offense as well. At 6-foot-5, 235 pounds, he can catch and run very well but also block as an H-back. Mekhii Billingsly will also likely get a chance on offense thanks to the sophomore’s work ethic.

OFFENSIVE LINE

This is the biggest position of need for the Warriors after losing multiple graduates and transfers here. Parker

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Trent Seaborn, QB

One of the top quarterbacks in the country, Seaborn’s accuracy and arm strength are the lifeblood of Thompson’s explosive offense.

Darion Moseley, WR Moseley will be one of the top targets this season after earning 757 yards and 13 touchdowns as just a sophomore in 2024.

Dedrick Kimbrough, WR Kimbrough burst onto the scene with 390 receiving yards in just six games last year, becoming a deep threat against 7A corners even as a freshman.

RJ Evans, RB

After sharing the load with Mike Dujon last year, it’s time for Evans to become the lead back and use his diverse skillset to carry the load on the ground.

Cam Pritchett, DE

Few can wreck a game for opposing offenses quite like Pritchett, who excels at beating offensive linemen and getting to the ball quickly.

KEY DEPARTURES

Anquon Fegans, DB

The now-Auburn safety was a ballhawk with the Warriors, leading the county with six interceptions to win Class 7A Back of the Year and Shelby County Player of the Year.

Jared Smith, DL

Smith led the county with 8.5 sacks thanks to his athleticism that made him a matchup nightmare, the Class 7A Lineman of the Year and one of three Warriors to sign with Auburn.

John Alan McGuire, P/K McGuire excelled at pinning opponents back on punts, booming the ball 44.2 yards a kick and placing a third of his punts inside the red zone.

Mike Dujon, RB

Dujon was one of the top dual-threat running backs in the county and led the way for the Warriors in multiple key games in 2024.

AJ Williams, OT

Now at Austin Peay, the All-County pick Williams was one of multiple key senior linemen who graduated over the offseason.

Middelstat will step into the veteran leadership role at right tackle. He’s up around 20 pounds to 6-foot-5, 275 pounds and started every game last season. Jared Fikes will hold down the left tackle spot opposite Middelstat at 6-foot-6, 290 pounds. The interior is the greatest question mark, and it all comes down to whether sophomores Tommy Williams and Micah Walker develop as expected. Walker is an imposing presence at 6-foot-5, 315 pounds and Williams is 6-foot-3, 285 pounds, so the Warriors would like to get both

up to the level they expect to shore up the guard spots for the next three years.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Cam Pritchett remains the star of the show here as he enters his junior season as one of the most highlyregarded edge rushers in the country. Fresh off a commitment to Oregon, he is big, long and athletic and knows how to get to the quarterback and cause chaos. In the coaches eyes though, Noah Streeter has the chance to make about as big of an impact on

Darion Moseley

2025 Thompson Roster

31

Trent Seaborn is one of the most experienced quarterbacks in the state at 31 starts since taking the reins in the first round of the 2022 playoffs. He’s also accomplished just about everything in that span, earning All-American and All-State honors alongside a pair of Class 7A Back of the Year nominations and, of course, state championships. However, he has one thing most of those quarterbacks don’t–two more years of high school. Many players typically hit another level as they become upperclassmen, so it’ll be exciting to see where Seaborn takes his game next.

KEY NUMBERS

1,493

Last year, the Warriors returned exactly zero receiving yards from their top three receivers. This year, they’ll return a completely-intact core of their three best pass-catchers, including Darion Moseley (757 yards in 13 games), Dedrick Kimbrough (390 yards in six games) and Pryce Lewis (346 yards in nine games).

27.2

After Thompson lost to Hoover in the region title game, a switch flipped on both sides of the ball. From their regular season finale against Prattville to the state championship against Central-Phenix City, the Warriors won each of their final five games by an average of 27.2 points per game. The defense reached a new level, giving up multiple touchdowns just once when Auburn High closed the gap in garbage time. The offense responded in kind, scoring more than 30 points in each of the games leading up to the finals.

the opposite end thanks to his similar skillset. Moving inside to defensive tackle, Peter Ramil will continue to hold down the interior but has a new running mate in Ami Moala, a four-star commit with multiple SEC offers who moved from Oregon. Freeman says both have the power and leverage to win the line of scrimmage. Look out for sophomore Meleek Billingsly as a

Dedrick Kimbrough

young name aiming to break into the rotation somewhere on the defense.

LINEBACKER

Trent McCorvey is back and ready for a full season after an injury cost him eight weeks of the season last year. He made it back in time for state, but in between that time, Kevin Davis came over from the

offense and used his strong, athletic build to easily slide into that role. He’s made a big jump over the offseason and will be a versatile piece alongside McCorvey as both can play nickel, safety and star. The inside linebacker spot will have a mix of experience and new blood, with senior Chance Strown back for the Warriors while Colton Moore slots in opposite him after transferring from

Chance Strown

Oak Mountain. Logan Kuehner is a young name to look out for at inside linebacker as a 6-foot-1 sophomore filling into his frame.

SECONDARY

Anquon Fegans’ absence here cannot be overstated, but the Warriors are confident in their options here, starting with senior Damonte Tabb and junior Micah Fleming.

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (9-1)

Plenty of people doubted and counted out the Warriors during the 2024 season. I’ll admit there were moments I doubted too. But much fewer people will do so this year. Thompson’s young returning core will make them one of the most complete teams in the state not just this year, but next year as well. The returners on the offensive line will help lead the unit to become another strong one that can enable a quick ground attack and give Trent Seaborn time to make big throws. While I had my doubts about the Warriors replacing a pair of All-Americans in Anquon Fegans and Jared Smith, Noah Streeter, Micah Fleming and Damonte Tabb should replace them well from within, dispelling some of the notion that the Warriors need veteran transfers to maintain their standard. Some of those younger pieces will be tested against Grayson, which could be a tough matchup alongside Clay-Chalkville. However, Thompson always peaks late, and with so much continuity from last year’s title team, there’s no telling how good this team could be.

QUICK HITS

YOUNG GUNS Last year’s youth movement has paid dividends with nine starters returning across both sides of the ball. That number won’t drop much next year as many of the star players aren’t even seniors. Trent Seaborn, Cam Pritchett, Darion Moseley and Pryce Lewis lead a talented junior class, and Dedrick Kimbrough returns after starting the back half of his freshman year. He won’t be the only impactful sophomore with Tommy Williams and Micah Walker to likely start on the offensive line and the Billingsley twins jockeying for playing time. If the Warriors’ youngsters keep their heads down and continue to work, the team should maintain its championship standard.

PASSING THE BATON A wise man once said there are always two: a master and an apprentice. That’s been the case each of the last three years. AJ Green and Mike Dujon shared the workload in 2022 and 2023 before Green graduated, leaving Dujon as the lead back and veteran leader of the running back room. RJ Evans then became the No. 2 rusher in 2024, learning from Dujon as the senior put up an All-County season. Now, Evans is the veteran tasked with both the bulk of the carries, and while senior transfer KJ Jackson will likely take the No. 2 spot, the pair will still mentor a pair of younger runners in Uriah Cason and Jafari Pegues. Freeman gushes about the four backs and says it’s the best group top-to-bottom that he’s ever coached. This mix of veterans and young backs will look to live up to that assessment.

WINNING THE MARGINS One of the biggest storylines of Thompson’s season last year wasn’t just the fact that it lost three games in the regular season, but that the Warriors lost all three games by one point and in overtime. Granted, the losses came to ClayChalkville, Hoover and Georgia’s Class 6A state champion Grayson, but in each of the three games, they couldn’t seem to crack dominant defenses with potent run games. However, Freeman made it a point to preach the little details over the season, and that helped them make big gains, especially through the air. As a result, the Warriors learned more about themselves and how to work for success, something that will be crucial again this year against another brutal schedule.

Tabb will take the primary safety role with his length, physicality and ability to break on balls, making him the ideal safety in Freeman’s eyes. Fleming has the speed to keep up with any receiver, shown by his fifth-place finish in the indoor 60-meter dash state championship with a time of 6.92 seconds. He’s one of the hardest workers on the team and will be the top matchup corner this year. Terry Robinson will line up at the other cornerback spot after a strong offseason, and the other safety role will likely go to sophomore Elijah King.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The five-star punter John Alan McGuire was one of the biggest offseason losses for the Warriors, so much so that Thompson isn’t sure how to replace him at kicker and punter yet. Trent Seaborn’s been floated as a potential punting option, and Freeman is fielding candidates from the Warriors’ successful soccer team this summer to fill both holes. Ethan Black and Colton Burnett are two juniors listed as kickers on the roster with classmate Knox Morrison available to long snap.

RJ Evans

VINCENT

YELLOW JACKETS

It was another banner year for the Vincent Yellow Jackets as they held their own in one of the toughest regions in Class 2A and reached the second round for the second time in the last three seasons.

However, that’s where they hit the wall once again. In the 65 years since the playoffs were introduced, Vincent has never won a secondround game. After baseball won a state title in May, that’s now fueling the players’ motivation to replicate that success and get over the hump.

While the Jackets lost a talented senior class including All-State pick Grayson Gulde, they have solid returning core back, including an experienced quarterback in Lane Mims, playmakers like Jayden Roberts and Landon Archer and defensive standouts Zahmir McMillan, Cayden Carroll and KJ Chapman.

The program has reached a new level of success under coach Lucas Weatherford, but they aren’t satisfied. This team wants to redefine success once again with a deep run.

MEET THE TEAM

QUARTERBACK

Junior Lane Mims enters his first season as the fulltime starter, but he has more experience than most first-year starters. That’s because injuries to Casen Fields over the last couple seasons gave him valuable starting experience in high-leverage region games. Those gave him an advantage going into his junior season as he’s quickly made the position his. Weatherford says that Mims is just as athletic as Fields with his quickness and even better with deep throws, making him a true dual-threat quarterback. Should anything happen to Mims, Walker Wills, Calvin Johnson and Landon Archer are the backups.

RUNNING BACK

Jayden Roberts goes into his second season as the lead back. Weatherford said last year was definitely a learning year for Roberts as he missed a couple games due to injury and had to learn his role in the offense. However, the All-County Second Team pick stepped into a new role as a leader and has shown his selflessness throughout the offseason. He’ll be one of four backs used, all of whom have different skillsets. Wyatt Carlisle is the defined No. 2 and has worked hard in the weight room to gain that role. Jay Posey sits at 5-foot-5, 125 pounds, but his point guard background makes him a quick option. Joshua Wyatt

CLASSIFICATION

AHSAA Class 2A, Region 5

2024 RECORD

9-3 (4-2 Region 5)

HEAD COACH

Lucas Weatherford

RECORD

31-34 (Seventh Year)

ASSISTANT COACHES

Tim Gilbert, Andrew Isbell, Larry Johnson, Tim Junkins, Blake White LAST REGION

Lane Mims

will be the power guy at 6-foot-3, 235 pounds.

RECEIVER

Landon Archer’s breakout moments at receiver in place of Aiden Poe last year have made him one of the biggest targets going into this year. He’s moving over to the X spot to take advantage of his great route-running and explosive playmaking ability. As for this year’s breakout candidate, look for Zach Morehead. Last year was his first year playing football, and he showed his speed and length over on defense. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound junior will now shift over to the offense. Aidan Wills is the senior leader of a young group. And yes, Calvin Johnson will be another key receiver. They are fully aware of the irony, but he has the skills to excel at the position once again.

OFFENSIVE LINE

This is the biggest question mark for Vincent after losing much of its senior depth last year. A pair of key pieces are back though in Austin Osborne and Dontavion Keith. The 5-foot-11, 275-pound Osborne became a leader last year and will start at right tackle as a senior. Keith used to be opposite of him at left tackle in 2024, but the 5-foot-9, 215-pounder is moving inside to left

2025 SCHEDULE

Aug. 22: Winterboro

Aug. 29: @ B.B. Comer

Sept. 5: Bye

Sept. 12: @ Lamar County*

Sept. 19: Sulligent*

Sept. 26: Childersburg

Oct. 3: @ Tuscaloosa Academy*

Oct. 10: Aliceville*

Oct. 17: @Isabella*

Oct. 24: Greene County*

Oct. 30: @ Montevallo#

*Region Game

#Thursday Game

guard. That other tackle spot will go to Landon Hardy, who played defensive line last year but got injured. He’s now a big leader and brings a 6-foot-3, 265-pound frame. The long and lengthy linebacker Alex Ware will play guard at 6-foot and about 200 pounds. Mickel Moore rounds out the starting five at left tackle, and Callyn Henson will also play a key role with the team.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Vincent has the benefit of competition here with seven players competing for three spots in the 3-4 base scheme. The athletic Zahmir McMillan will once again bring his basketball background to

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Landon Archer, WR/S/P Archer had plenty of great moments in a Vincent uniform as a true Swiss army knife in 2024, serving as one of the Yellow Jackets most dynamic playmakers. Archer had 483 receiving yards and six touchdowns off of 22 receptions, had three interceptions and 47 tackles on defense and averaged 37.2 yards per punt.

Jayden Roberts, RB/S Like Archer, Roberts will look to positively impact Vincent on both sides of the ball in 2025. As a running back, he went for over 1,000 yards on offense. On defense, he’ll look to continue to impact the secondary as a safety.

KJ Chapman, OLB

Chapman is one of Vincent’s biggest leaders on and off the field. Defensively, he will look to get his guys organized and ready for battle on every snap.

Lane Mims, QB Mims’s 2025 campaign will be his first as the full-time starter under center for Vincent. Having filled in for former QB Casen Fields multiple times due to injuries, Mims is experienced and athletic.

KEY DEPARTURES

Grayson Gulde, LB Gulde finished with an astonishing 202 tackles in his senior campaign for Vincent. 118 of those tackles were solo, and the human wrecking ball created 21 tackles for loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles, an interception and two blocked field goals on special teams in 2024.

Keller Finn, OL Finn was a key part of the Jackets frontline a season ago, earning 472 key blocks and 28 pancake blocks during the season. He, like Abbott, will be a tough lineman to replace for Vincent in 2025.

Casen Fields, QB

The Jackets will be without their signal caller from the last two seasons after Fields lit up opposing defenses with a strong arm and athleticism, but Lane Mims will now step into his role after a couple seasons of learning behind him.

Landon Archer

2024 STATS

Total Points: 351

Game: 29.3

Rank: 5th Defense Points Allowed: 196 Per Game: 16.3

County Rank: 3rd

2024 RESULTS

@ Winterboro W 19-6

B.B. Comer W 21-18

Bye

Lamar County* W 37-0

@ Sulligent* W 29-6

@ Childersburg W 31-0

Tuscaloosa Academy* L 21-35

@ Aliceville* W 30-14

Isabella* W 49-41

@ Greene County* L 24-32

Montevallo W 21-19

Sand Rock# W 49-0

@ Winston County# L 20-25

*Region Game

#Playoff Game

the edge while Landin Hardy will look to bring his size and explosiveness to a full season after his year was cut short by a Week 2 knee injury. While Hardy has blood relations to former Ole Miss defensive lineman Chris Hardie as his cousin, Weatherford gave Josh Wyatt the comparison to the star Yellow Jacket alum. He’s young and raw with a defensive end’s body but plays like a linebacker.

LINEBACKER

How do you replace the Class 2A Lineman of the Year finalist Grayson Gulde and his All-County counterpart Aidan Gasaway? Just like they did when Ray Albright left–with the next man up.

That is Cayden Carroll, who sat behind the pair last year and played a good amount but is ready to shine now. At 5-foot-7, 165 pounds, he may be smaller than most linebackers, but he makes up for it with his toughness and leadership. Weatherford said Carroll and KJ Chapman effectively function as coaches on the field getting everyone set as a traditional linebacker does. Chapman is the top outside linebacker after taking to the position when Albright went down in 2023, but Weatherford believes the other outside back Zach Morehead has every bit as high a ceiling as Chapman. Alex Ware is another experienced option moving from outside linebacker and defensive end to

EDITOR’S 2025 PREDICTION (7-3)

The Jackets look ready to be in the mix for a deeper playoff run this year, but some question marks remain with an absolute gauntlet to be the litmus test. There aren’t many connections I’d take over the Lane Mims-Landon Archer pairing, and I expect Jayden Roberts to take a leap going into year two as a starter. The offensive line will be a big determining factor in the offense’s potential as a whole. If the new linemen can match up well to provide Mims time to make big throws and open up holes for Roberts, expect fireworks each and every game (and not just from a truck bed). The defense also has tons of potential around Archer, who I expect to have an All-County season this year at safety with his ability to force turnovers in open field and matchups. One or two more All-County-level playmakers would take this unit over the top. There may be some growing pains at times, especially in a tight Week 2 game with B.B. Comer. Isabella and Tuscaloosa Academy will also provide two more tough tests during region play as both have top-10 potential. Vincent will find itself in close games throughout the season as a result, meaning a competent kicker is essential to avoid dropping a one-or-two-point contest. With all that said though, I’m banking on Vincent’s new core living up to the promise it’s shown in spot starts over the last few years and challenging for the third round.

Photo by Iron City Studios

2025 Vincent Roster

inside back, and Zahmir McMillan can move back here if needed plus Aden Gardner.

SECONDARY

Landon Archer showcased his athleticism at safety last year with several big plays, including an acrobatic interception against Tuscaloosa Academy. He’ll lead the secondary again and need to create more turnovers alongside his fellow safety Jayden Roberts. While the safety spots are solidified, cornerback is anything but. Calvin Johnson can play either cornerback or safety, but he’ll likely line up at corner while battling Jay Posey, Wyatt Carlisle and Lane Mims. However, just like any of the defensive positions, Weatherford will keep their

Jr. 73 Callyn Henson

Dontavion Keith

Mickel Moore

Sr. 76 Landin Hardy OL/DL Sr.

78 Jacob White OL/DL Fr.

offensive snaps in mind to balance their workload.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Daniel Campos was a longtime luxury for Vincent as he provided a reliable kicking leg that it simply didn’t have before he arrived. Now he’s gone through, and Weatherford has two options available to replace him. Landon Archer will punt once again and averages about 40 yards a punt, so he may pull double duty, but sophomore Owen White is in contention for the job as well. Aden Gardner will replace Aidan Gasaway at long snapper, and the coaches love him in that role since he can run down and cover afterwards. 202

Grayson Gulde was among the most impactful players in the state with 202 tackles in the 2024 season alone. That total earned him statewide recognition as a finalist for the Class 2A Lineman of the Year award. His impact on the field can’t be overstated, but the Jackets have experience reloading at linebacker, which they’ll look to do once again to make up for his loss.

483

After dazzling on the baseball diamond, Landon Archer broke out on the football field too, finishing with 483 receiving yards and six touchdowns as just a sophomore in 2024. His impact stretches across the field as a playmaking defensive back and a reliable leg at punter. Another great season on all three fronts would elevate him into the conversation of the most versatile athletes in all of Alabama.

4

When dealing with a position as bruising as running back, it doesn’t hurt to have options. That’s exactly what Vincent has this year with four players able to take snaps at running back. Jayden Roberts leads the group after a truncated but still effective season from a year ago, and Wyatt Carlisle, Jay Posey and Joshua Wyatt will assist to give him opportunities to rest. Each back provides a unique skillset and could make playcalling interesting for the Jackets offense.

TOP POSITION units

1. Chelsea 2. Helena 3. Thompson

1. Thompson 2. Spain Park 3. Helena

1. Thompson 2. Spain Park 3. Pelham

1. Shelby County 2. Spain Park 3. Briarwood

1. Thompson 2. Briarwood 3. Shelby County

Chelsea 2. Shelby County 3. Thompson

1. Chelsea 2. Shelby County 3. Oak Mountain

Oak Mountain 2. Chelsea 3. Shelby County