The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness

Falcon Nation,

I am excited to introduce The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness, our new weekly football newsletter. Each week, this recap will highlight our players, share key moments from the game, and celebrate the relentless effort our team is putting in on and off the field.

Our goal is simple—keep you connected to the journey as we continue to chase greatness together. Every practice, every snap, and every extra point matters, and your support fuels our players to give their best.

Thank you for standing behind our program and for bringing the energy each week. Let’s continue to soar high, stay united, and make this season one to remember.

With gratitude,
Coach Pippen

The Central Falcons opened their 2025 season with a statement win, overpowering Tuscaloosa County 45–13 on Friday night at Falcon Field. From the opening whistle, Central set the tone with a relentless ground game and stifling defense that kept the Wildcats from ever finding their rhythm.

The Falcons pounded out nearly 300 rushing yards, showcasing their depth and balance on offense. Anthony Dixon led the way with 95 rushing yards and added a receiving touchdown, proving he could hurt the defense in multiple ways. Tra’Von Hall added two more touchdowns on the ground, giving the Falcons a consistent spark every time he touched the ball.

Defensively, Central was just as dominant. Senior leader Jackson Carlisle recorded two sacks, continuing his streak of double-digit tackle performances that stretches back to last season. Alongside him, Marcus Muse wreaked havoc, finishing with nine tackles, five for loss, and a forced fumble that kept the Wildcats on their heels all night.

Tuscaloosa County showed flashes, managing 145 rushing yards, but the Falcons’ intensity and execution proved too much to overcome. By the second half, it was clear Central was in full control, and the home crowd erupted as the Falcons soared to their first win of the season.

With momentum on their side, Central now turns its focus to the road, traveling to Calera for a Friday night matchup. If Week 0 was any indication, this Falcons squad is ready to chase greatness one game at a time.

This week, we are proud to shine a spotlight on John B’s Lens, founded by John Bryant, a Louisville native who recently moved to Tuscaloosa to attend the University of Alabama and pursue his passion for sports and news media. With years of experience photographing and filming regional sporting events back home, John has quickly become a part of our Falcon family by bringing his creative eye to the field.

At Central’s home opener, John truly outdid himself. His work went far beyond capturing plays—it reflected the very soul of our program. Through his lens, the traditions of Falcon football came alive: the legacy of excellence built since our inaugural season in 1979, the pride of two state championships and more than twenty playoff appearances, and the relentless spirit that continues to drive us today. His photos and videos captured not just the action, but the mentorship, Faith X Grind, teamwork, hustle, grit, and energy that define who we are as Falcons. They reflected the leadership of Coach DeMario Pippen, the pride of our alumni, and the strong sense of community that makes Falcon football so special.

We are grateful for John’s creativity and passion, and we look forward to sharing more of his incredible work as the season continues.

📸 You can follow his journey and see more of his photography on Instagram: @johnb_lens

A Strong Start for Central. The Central Falcons opened the 2025 season in dominant fashion, rolling past Tuscaloosa County with a complete performance on both sides of the ball. Now, with momentum on their side, the Falcons turn their attention to their first road trip of the season — a matchup with the Calera Eagles.

Calera’s Early Struggles. The Eagles enter Week 1 at 0–1 after a 41–21 loss to Northridge. Calera found themselves in an early hole as the Jaguars struck quickly, scoring touchdowns on each of their first three possessions. Big plays and third-down conversions proved costly, and by halftime the Eagles were chasing the game.

A Glimpse of Firepower. Despite the slow start, Calera showed plenty of fight. Quarterback Jordan Ward showcased his dual-threat ability, throwing for more than 150 yards and rushing for over 100. He connected with receiver Cayden Specks for two touchdowns, while running back Jordan Henderson eclipsed the 100-yard mark on the ground. Their resilience kept the Eagles within striking distance before a late interception sealed Northridge’s win.

Keys to Friday Night. For Central, the formula remains simple: control the line of scrimmage and limit mistakes. The Falcons’ physical style on both sides of the ball will be tested against Calera’s playmakers, particularly Ward’s ability to extend plays and Henderson’s rushing consistency.

For Calera, avoiding another slow start will be crucial. If the Eagles can protect the football and keep the game close early, their offensive weapons are capable of creating problems for any defense.

What to Expect. Friday night’s clash sets up as a contrast in styles — Central’s physical, balanced approach against Calera’s explosive, quick-strike offense. The Falcons aim to build on last week’s statement win, while the Eagles are hungry to rebound and defend their home field. With both teams eager to prove themselves, fans can expect a spirited battle under the lights in Calera.

Central Falcons

• Anthony Dixon (RB/WR): A versatile threat who can score on the ground or through the air.

• Tra’Von Hall (RB): Brings speed and consistency to Central’s backfield.

• Jackson Carlisle (LB): Defensive anchor with a nose for the football.

• Marcus Muse (DL): Disruptive force who can change a game at the line of scrimmage.
  
  

Calera Eagles

• Jordan Ward (QB): Dual-threat leader capable of making plays with both arm and legs.

• Cayden Specks (WR): Reliable target who found the end zone twice in Week 0.

• Jordan Henderson (RB): Tough runner who can carry the load and wear down defenses.

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