The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness

Falcon Nation,

We are thrilled to bring you this week’s edition of The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness, your inside look at Falcon Football. As we head into Game Week 7 and Game 8, including Senior Night and Homecoming 2025, this update highlights standout performances, key moments from recent matchups, and the unwavering dedication our players demonstrate both on and off the field.

Our mission remains the same—staying connected and striving for greatness together. Every drill, every snap, every extra point counts, and your continued support fuels our team to push harder, play smarter, and give their very best each week.

Thank you for standing with us and cheering our Falcons on week after week. Let's keep soaring high, united in purpose, and make this season, and Senior Night and Homecoming 2025, one to remember!

With gratitude,
Coach Pippen

Our JV Falcons are on fire! 🔥 They are now 4–0 after edging out Hillcrest in a thrilling 16–14 win.

Up next: they hit the road to face McAdory tonight, Monday, October 6, at 6:00 PM. Let’s pack the stands and keep the energy high for Monday Night Football Game 5! 🏈

Central looked in control for much of Friday night’s clash at Falcon Field, jumping out to a 20-7 halftime lead. But McAdory stormed back in the second half to steal a 21–20 victory, handing the Falcons a heartbreaker in a pivotal region matchup.

The Falcons came out hot. McAdory’s opening drive faltered, forcing a punt from their own end zone. Jaelon Bramlett seized the opportunity, returning the punt 52 yards for a touchdown to put Central on the board first. The defense held firm on the next Yellowjackets’ possession, forcing another punt. Central then capitalized on its first offensive drive, as James Freeman powered into the end zone for an 8-yard rushing touchdown. A missed PAT from Graham Wolfe left the Falcons with a 13-0 lead, a deficit they would feel later.

McAdory cut into the lead late in the second quarter when quarterback Justin Patton found Marcus Briggs streaking down the middle for a touchdown, making it 13-7. But Central answered before halftime. AJ Dixon capped a sustained drive with a goal-line touchdown run, giving the Falcons a 20-7 advantage at the break. Dixon finished the night with 138 rushing yards and a touchdown on 18 carries, adding 25 receiving yards. Tra’Von Hall contributed 67 rushing yards on 8 attempts, while Armani White threw for 74 yards and a touchdown, completing 5 of 11 passes. Kannon Atkinson Eubanks hauled in a 37-yard reception, and K. Harris added 23 receiving yards, keeping the Falcons’ passing attack balanced.

The second half was a different story. McAdory opened with a surprise onside kick that they recovered, shifting momentum. Kawaan Johnson scored later in the third quarter to cut the lead to 20-14. Central appeared ready to respond, driving deep into Yellowjacket territory, but McAdory’s defense made a goal-line stand at the one-yard line, keeping the Falcons from extending their lead.

The Jackets then executed a 99-yard drive, capped by another Patton-to-Briggs touchdown pass. Carter Feagin was instrumental on that drive, making several contested catches down the sideline to move the chains. The successful PAT gave McAdory its first lead of the game, 21-20.

Central had one final chance to reclaim the lead. A third-and-30 situation late in the fourth quarter was partially salvaged by a 20-yard screen pass to AJ Dixon, setting up a 40-yard field goal attempt by Graham Wolfe. The kick came up short, sealing McAdory’s comeback victory.

Defensively, the Falcons were active all night. The front seven limited McAdory to 95 rushing yards, while Javarski Lanier led the team with 7 tackles. Jasiuah Rainer contributed 8 total tackles and 3 tackles for loss, Josh Evans added 4 tackles and 2 TFLs with 1 sack, and the secondary broke up 4 passes, helping limit big plays early. Central also forced two turnovers, including the fumble recovery that set up Freeman’s first-quarter touchdown.

Central outgained McAdory 297 yards to 265 and dominated on the ground with 223 rushing yards, averaging 7.7 yards per carry. Anthony Dixon Jr., Tra’Von Hall, James Freeman, and Bramlett all provided big plays, but the missed PAT and stalled late drives proved costly.

The Falcons now sit at 5-2 overall and 2-2 in region play. This week, they will look to rebound against Brookwood, hoping to correct the mistakes that turned a 20-7 halftime advantage into a 21-20 heartbreaker.

Join us Thursday, October 9th, at 7:00 PM as we celebrate our Class of 2026 Falcons one final time under the lights on Falcon Field.

Let us fill the stands and show love to our seniors for all they have given to Central High School Football!

This event is open to the public.

Homecoming Stakes and Region Pressure. Falcon Field will be electric this Friday as Central (5–2, 2–2) hosts Brookwood (2–5, 0–3) in a pivotal 6A Region 4 matchup and the centerpiece of Homecoming week. After a heartbreaker last week, falling 21–20 to McAdory despite a dominant first half, the Falcons are looking to turn frustration into focus, using every ounce of talent and experience to reclaim control at home. With playoff positioning on the line, Central will rely on its balanced attack, disciplined defense, and explosive playmakers to set the tone early and keep the crowd roaring.

Falcons’ Offensive Firepower. Central’s offense has been humming all season, and this week the Falcons will lean heavily on their key playmakers. Anthony Dixon Jr. (Jr, RB/WR) remains the centerpiece, averaging 137.5 rushing yards per game with 10 total touchdowns. His combination of speed, vision, and power makes him a constant threat both on the ground and through the air. Tra’Von Hall (Jr, WR/RB) complements Dixon perfectly, adding 44.3 rushing yards per game and eight total touchdowns, using his agility and field awareness to turn short gains into explosive plays. Freshman Anthony Shepherd has also emerged as a promising option out of the backfield, averaging 32.7 rushing yards per game and adding depth to Central’s rotation.

In the passing game, Kannon Atkinson-Eubanks (Sr, WR) stretches defenses as a deep threat, averaging 24.8 receiving yards per game, while Marcus Grayson (Sr, WR) provides reliability and route precision, tallying 57 receiving yards per game. Quarterback Armani White (Jr, QB) is the steady hand under center, orchestrating the offense with accuracy and poise, distributing the ball effectively to multiple playmakers. James Freeman (Sr, RB/WR) continues to serve as the red-zone workhorse, punching in key touchdowns and sustaining drives when every yard matters. With this mix of explosiveness, balance, and versatility, Central has the tools to control the game from the first snap.

Defensive Strength and Key Playmakers. Central’s defense has been equally impressive, capable of shutting down opposing offenses and creating turnovers. Jasiuah Rainer (Sr, S) anchors the backfield, averaging 9.5 tackles per game and patrolling sideline to sideline with range and instincts. Linebackers TaQuarious Henderson (So, LB) and Jaden Taylor (Jr, LB) provide a formidable presence in the middle, combining for more than 13 tackles per game and consistently pressuring the backfield. On the line, Jackson Carlisle (Sr, DL) and Marcus Muse (Jr, DL) disrupt plays with sacks, tackles for loss, and relentless pressure, forcing quarterbacks into hurried decisions. In the secondary, Zaivion Cade (Sr, CB/S) and Javarski Lanier (Sr, CB) offer coverage skills and speed, key to containing Brookwood’s limited but dangerous passing threats.

Special teams also play a pivotal role. Graham Wolfe (Sr, K) provides reliability on extra points and field goals, while Au’taurus Richardson (Jr, ATH) has the ability to flip field position on kick and punt returns. Josh Evans (Sr, MLB/LS) contributes to coverage and snaps, helping Central control the field from start to finish.

Brookwood’s Struggles and Opportunity for Central. Brookwood enters as a 2–5 underdog, winless in region play. The Panthers have shown flashes offensively but have struggled with consistency and turnovers, while defensively they have allowed big plays both on the ground and through the air. Central’s offensive line and skill players will look to exploit these gaps, sustain long drives, and force Brookwood into uncomfortable down-and-distance situations. Controlling the clock with a strong running game and spreading the ball efficiently through the air will be key for the Falcons to keep the Panthers off balance.

Homecoming Spotlight: High Energy and Big Plays. With Homecoming festivities adding to the energy, Falcon Field is expected to be packed with alumni, students, and fans. Central’s playmakers will need to rise to the occasion, establishing the run with Dixon, Hall, and Shepherd, stretching the field through Eubanks and Grayson, and trusting White to deliver the ball efficiently. Defensively, Rainer, Henderson, Taylor, Carlisle, and Cade must maintain intensity, disrupt plays, and prevent big gains. Special teams could provide a spark, whether through a critical field goal by Wolfe or a momentum-shifting return by Richardson.

Friday night is more than just a game; it’s a chance for Central to rebound from heartbreak, make a statement in front of a passionate Homecoming crowd, and keep the Falcons on track for a playoff run. With talent, depth, and balance across all three phases of the game, the Falcons are poised to turn Homecoming into a celebration of resilience, execution, and Falcon Pride.

Offensive Standouts

• Anthony Dixon Jr. (Jr, RB/WR): Dixon has been Central’s most explosive weapon this season. He’s rushed 74 times for 963 yards, averaging a staggering 13.0 yards per carry and 137.6 rushing yards per game, with 10 total touchdowns. He’s also caught 15 passes for 161 yards, adding another dimension to his game. Dixon’s combination of speed, vision, and power makes him capable of breaking any play for a huge gain, whether on the ground or through the air.

• Armani White (Jr, QB): White has thrown for 872 yards on 61 completions from 102 attempts, completing 59.8% of his passes with 5 touchdowns and only 1 interception. He averages 124.6 passing yards per game and adds 28 rushing yards per game. His 99.8 QB rating reflects his efficiency and decision-making, making him Central’s steady hand under center and the engine of the balanced Falcon offense.

• Tra’Von Hall (Jr, WR/RB): Hall has been a dual threat, rushing 26 times for 333 yards (12.8 YPC) with 7 rushing touchdowns, while adding 14 receptions for 207 yards and a touchdown. His combined all-purpose yardage of 540 yards and 8 total touchdowns make him a constant threat to break explosive plays both as a runner and receiver.

• Marcus Grayson (Sr, WR): Grayson has hauled in 15 receptions for 158 yards, averaging 10.5 yards per catch and 26.3 receiving yards per game. While he hasn’t scored a touchdown this season, Grayson provides a reliable target for White and stretches defenses with his precise routes and sure hands, especially in crucial situations.

• James Freeman (Jr, RB): Freeman has 6 rushes for 59 yards, averaging 9.8 yards per carry, and 3 rushing touchdowns. His physicality and red-zone efficiency make him a reliable weapon in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

• Kannon Atkinson-Eubanks (Sr, WR): Eubanks has 8 receptions for 161 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging 20.1 yards per catch and 26.8 yards per game. His deep-threat ability forces defenses to respect the outside, creating space for Dixon, Hall, and short passing options.

• Anthony Shepherd (Fr, HB): Shepherd has 11 carries for 98 yards, averaging 8.9 yards per carry and 32.7 yards per game. His quickness provides a change-of-pace option out of the backfield and adds depth to the Falcon rushing attack.

• Jaelon Bramlett (Jr, WR/RB/KR): Bramlett has contributed primarily in all-purpose plays, rushing once for 5 yards and adding 85 return yards. He has totaled 90 all-purpose yards and averages 18.0 yards per game. Bramlett’s explosiveness as a returner and versatility in the backfield make him a wildcard who can change momentum in a single play.

• Ke'Aundra Harris (Sr, WR): Harris has 4 receptions for 82 yards and 1 touchdown, averaging 20.5 yards per catch. His ability to make big plays downfield can stretch the defense and open opportunities for other skill players.

• Zaivion Cade (Sr, WR/RB): Cade has rushed 11 times for 84 yards and added 3 receptions for 27 yards, totaling 111 all-purpose yards. His versatility allows him to support both the running and passing game effectively.
  
  

Defensive Playmakers

• Jasiuah Rainer (Sr., S): Rainer continues to anchor Central’s secondary with 65 total tackles (38 solo, 27 assists), 6 tackles for loss, and 1 sack. He also contributes a forced fumble and a blocked kick, showcasing his ability to make game-changing plays all over the field.
• Jackson Carlisle (Sr., DL): Carlisle dominates the trenches with 43 total tackles (18 solo, 25 assists), 15 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. He also added a pass deflection, making him a disruptive presence against both the run and the pass.
• Joshua Evans (Sr., MLB): Evans is a versatile linebacker with 38 total tackles (20 solo, 18 assists), 4 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks. His leadership and ability to read plays make him central to both run defense and pass coverage schemes.
• TaQuarious Henderson (So., LB): Henderson contributes 39 total tackles (18 solo, 21 assists), 4 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks. He is fast, instinctive, and can quickly adjust to offensive schemes, making him a threat to opposing backs and quarterbacks alike.
• Marcus Muse (Jr., DL): Muse has 33 total tackles (8 solo, 25 assists), 10 tackles for loss, and 1 sack. Additionally, he’s responsible for a forced fumble and an interception return of 26 yards, showing both pass-rushing and turnover-producing ability.
• Jaelon Bramlett (Jr., CB/S): Bramlett provides versatility with 26 total tackles (14 solo, 12 assists), 1 interception, a fumble recovery, and a blocked punt. His ability to create turnovers and contribute on special teams makes him a multi-dimensional playmaker.
• Nicholas Witherspoon (Sr., LB): Witherspoon tallies 26 total tackles (7 solo, 16 assists) and 5 tackles for loss, along with a fumble recovery. His consistent presence in the linebacker corps stabilizes the middle of the field against both run and pass attacks.
• Jaden Taylor (Jr., LB): Taylor has 25 total tackles (13 solo, 12 assists), 2 tackles for loss, and an interception. He’s a reliable run-stopper and an important coverage option in zone and man schemes.
• Tra’Von Hall (Jr., DB): Hall contributes 4 total tackles (3 solo, 1 assist) and continues to provide speed and coverage in the secondary. His versatility allows him to make plays in coverage and run support alike.
• Markelyn Thomas (Jr., LB/DB): Thomas has 20 total tackles (10 solo, 10 assists) and 1 interception, adding depth in the middle and back end of Central’s defense. His ability to read plays and make tackles in open space strengthens the team’s overall defensive coverage.

Special Teams Contributors

• Graham Wolfe (Sr, K): Wolfe has made 2 field goals and converted 8 of 10 extra points, including a long of 43 yards. His consistency provides stability in close-game situations.
• Au’taurus Richardson (Jr, ATH): Richardson has returned 8 kicks/punts for 152 yards, averaging 19 yards per return, capable of flipping field position or breaking one for a touchdown.
• Joshua Evans (Sr, MLB/LS): Evans contributes on coverage and snaps in special teams and defense, with 4 solo tackles and 2 assists this season. His leadership and consistency are valuable for field position control.
• Jaelon Bramlett (Jr, WR/KR): Bramlett has returned 6 punts for 152 yards, averaging 25.3 yards per return, including a 52-yard punt return touchdown. His explosive ability on special teams makes him a constant threat to shift momentum.

Offense

• Jordan Riley (Jr, RB/MLB): As a dual-threat running back, Riley provides speed and agility out of the backfield. His versatility allows him to contribute in short-yardage situations as well as explosive runs.
• Leland Foster (Sr, RB/FS): Foster is Brookwood’s workhorse in the backfield, combining size and vision to pick up tough yards. His experience as a senior adds leadership to the Panther offense.
• Westley Patton (Jr, WR/FS): Patton is a speedy receiver who can stretch the field and create separation, providing Brookwood with a deep threat option.
• Jamarcus Jackson (So, RB/QB): Jackson’s ability to run or throw from the backfield makes him a versatile weapon in both designed runs and option plays.
  
  

Defense

• James Witherspoon (Sr, CB/SS): A senior leader in the secondary, Witherspoon provides experience and physicality in pass coverage, capable of breaking up passes and supporting against the run.
• Keldin Tinkerhayes (Sr, DT/G): Tinkerhayes anchors the defensive line, using his strength to disrupt the backfield and control gaps, crucial for stopping inside runs.
• Carson Strickland (Sr, G/DE): Strickland’s presence on the edge allows him to apply pressure to opposing quarterbacks and defend outside runs, making him a key defensive playmaker.

Special Teams

• Jaylen Campbell (Sr, WR): Campbell contributes on kick and punt returns, using his speed and vision to flip field position and create scoring opportunities.
• Noah Davis (Sr, DB): Davis is a threat on coverage units, bringing physicality and reliability to maintain field position and contain returns.

We will host McAdory on Friday at 7:00 PM. We are excited about these match ups but want to make sure all fans are aware of the expectations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Arrival & Entry

• Please plan to arrive at least 40 minutes prior to game time to avoid delays with ticket purchasing and GoFan verification. Gates open at 6:00 AM.
• Students age 14 and under must be with an adult or will not be allowed entry.
• CHS Fans must enter through the home gate by the gym.
• Visiting Fans must enter through the visiting gate.
• Pass Gate (Gate by the field house) is for coaches, players, officials, and individuals with appropriate passes.
  
  

Seating & Conduct

• Once inside the stadium, fans must be seated and remain seated unless using restrooms or visiting concessions.
• No mixing of CHS and visiting fans will be allowed. Patrons will not be permitted to walk to the opposing side of the stadium.
• Fans are not permitted to stand on the railings on the home side or visiting side.
• Fans are not permitted to enter the track or football field area.
  
  

Safety & Enforcement

• The Tuscaloosa Police Department will be on site.
• Anyone acting unruly or appearing to cause a disturbance will be removed from the stadium.
  • TCS students will face disciplinary action, up to suspension and a ban from extracurricular activities.
  • Non-TCS individuals may face removal, arrest warrants, and bans from future events

Falcon Nation,

Your support at our games is unmatched, and we appreciate your enthusiasm! To ensure the safety, focus, and performance of our student-athletes, sideline, media, and recruiting access is strictly limited — effective as of September 8, 2025.

Who is Permitted Access

Only the following individuals are allowed in restricted areas during home and away games:

• Players, coaches, and team managers

• Official trainers, student trainers, and medical personnel

• Media representatives with approved credentials

• School officials or personnel working in an official capacity with the team

• College and university coaches with approved recruiting/scouting passes

• Individuals holding an approved pass from the CHS Falcons Football Program
  
  

Anyone without a valid pass, or not working in an approved role, will be escorted from the restricted areas immediately. Children and students that are not in grades 9-12 should remain under parental supervision at all times and should not enter the players'/coaches' area during the game. Failure to comply may result in removal from the game and could lead to a ban from future Central Falcons football events.

Want Access?

Complete your request by visiting: chs.tuscaloosacityschools.com/athletics/football

• Click the appropriate access request tab, read all instructions, and complete the Google Form.
• All requests are subject to approval. An email will be sent within 24 hours after the form closes to notify you of your approval status.

• Not all requests will be filled, as space on the sideline and in media areas is limited. By submitting the respective form, you agree to follow all CHS Football pass policies and rules.

This policy is in place to protect our athletes, maintain game focus, and ensure a safe environment for all. We appreciate your cooperation and continued support for our Falcons.

Thank you for helping keep Falcon football safe, focused, and chasing greatness!

Tuscaloosa City Schools now requires us to communicate with all players, parents, community members/partners, etc. through ParentSquare. To stay connected with announcements, schedules, and special sponsor updates, we encourage you to join our Falcon Football ParentSquare Groups by clicking the appropriate link below.

These incredible businesses and individuals contributed $1,000 or more to support Central High School Falcon Football through our 2025 Sponsor the Nest Campaign!

Your sponsorship will directly support essential team operations, including:

• Team travel and trips

• New uniforms and equipment

• Facility improvements and maintenance

• Team meals and snacks

• Sanitation supplies and laundry detergent

• Video and technology upgrades

With your generous support, we can continue Chasing Greatness in the 2025 season and build on our 5–5 record from 2024 under the leadership of Head Coach DeMario Pippen. As proud members of 6A Region 4 of the AHSAA, we are committed to taking our program to the next level—with your help. We are pleased to offer the following sponsorship opportunities:

🏈 First Down Sponsor – $1,000

• 6x4 business advertisement sign prominently displayed at our 15th Street Gate from May 2025 to May 2026

• Two (2) complimentary tickets per home game

• Four (4) business PA announcements per home game -- (e.g., “That’s a Thomas’ Rib Shack First Down!” – limited to two sponsors per game)

• Recognition on social media and our team website

• Falcons Football t-shirt as a thank-you gift
  
  

🦅 Falcon Pride Sponsor – $500

• 4x3 business advertisement displayed at all home games

• One (1) complimentary ticket per home game

• Two (2) business PA announcements per home game

• Recognition on social media and the team website

• Falcons Football decal/sticker or hat as a thank-you gift
  
  

🎯 Field Goal Sponsor – $250

• 2x2 business advertisement displayed at all home games

• One (1) business PA announcement per home game

• Recognition on the Falcons Football website

• Social media shoutout during the season

• Falcons Football decal/sticker as a thank-you gift

Missed a previous edition? Catch up on all things Falcon Football — game recaps, highlights, and exclusive updates — in our newsletter archive.

Week 0 Recap vs. TCHS + Week 1 Preview @ Calera

Week 1 Recap @ Calera + Week 2 Preview @ Bryant

Week 2 Recap @ Bryant + Week 3 Preview @ Bessemer City
Week 3 Recap @ Bessemer City + Week 4 Preview vs. Northridge
Week 4 Recap vs. Northridge + Week 5 Preview @ Gardendale
Week 5 Recap @ Gardendale + Week 6 Preview vs. McAdory
Week 6 Recap vs. McAdory + Week 7 Preview vs. Brookwood