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. Coming off a historic Homecoming and Senior Night victory — a 56–14 statement win over Brookwood — our Falcons officially clinched their first playoff berth since 2018. That achievement represents not just one game, but the collective effort, growth, and commitment of every player, coach, and supporter in this program.

With the bye week behind us, our focus now shifts to resetting the standard as we enter Week 9 and prepare for a crucial road matchup against Hueytown. This is where discipline, execution, and preparation matter most. Our goal remains the same — to finish strong, stay sharp, and continue building momentum into November football.

Your support fuels our drive every week — from the sidelines to the stands, and throughout our community. Thank you for believing in our mission and for standing beside us as we continue Chasing Greatness.

With gratitude,
Coach Pippen

It was a night to remember under the lights at Falcon Field, during Homecoming on October 10th, as Central dominated Brookwood 56–14, securing its first playoff berth since 2018. The Falcons improved to 6–2 overall and 3–2 in Region 4, marking a defining moment in the program’s resurgence.

From start to finish, Central played its most complete game of the season. Junior quarterback Armani White, the Offensive Player of the Game, led a balanced attack — throwing for 115 yards and three touchdowns while adding 38 rushing yards. James Freeman, named Overall Player of the Game, exploded for 186 all-purpose yards, including a 51-yard touchdown run and an 85-yard kickoff return score.

Defensively, Jaden Taylor earned Defensive Player of the Game honors with 7 tackles and a sack, helping anchor a unit that forced three turnovers. On special teams, Graham Wolfe stayed perfect, going 8-for-8 on PATs to round out a dominant effort.

The win capped off a memorable Homecoming week and officially punched Central’s ticket to the postseason — a milestone that’s been seven years in the making.

Meanwhile, the JV Falcons wrapped up their season undefeated at 5–0 under the leadership of Head Coach Odis Waller, Jr., showcasing the bright future of the program.

With the playoff berth secured, Central now shifted its focus to preparation during the Week 8 bye this past week before traveling to Hueytown for a crucial Week 9 showdown this Friday. The mission: finish strong, stay sharp, and carry this momentum into November football.

This week, we are proud to spotlight Mr. Glen Cotton, Assistant Media Manager for Central High School Falcons Football — affectionately known by our players as “C-Free.”

A proud alumnus of Central High School, Glen is a self-taught cinematographer who began working in the film industry around 2018, driven by his lifelong passion for movies, music, and sports. His very first video, which he shot and edited himself, featured Coach Pippen training a young Jarvis Woods — a story that has now come full circle with Coach Pippen serving as Head Coach and Jarvis stepping onto the field as a freshman Falcon.

Over the years, C-Free’s camera has taken him across the country, but no matter where life and film have led him, his heart has always brought him back home to Central. For the past three years, he has captured the energy, emotion, and evolution of Falcon Football — from game-day action and sideline intensity to the behind-the-scenes moments that showcase the heart of our football program and community.

This season, one moment stood out above the rest: sharing the sidelines with his daughter, who attends a rival high school. It was a reminder that football is more than just a game — it is about family, connection, and legacy.

We are deeply grateful for Glen’s creativity, commitment, and storytelling excellence, which have helped elevate our football program’s media presence and bring Falcon Nation closer together.

Thank you, Mr. Cotton, for your unwavering dedication to our student-athletes and the Central community. You truly embody what it means to be a Falcon!

Road Test and Region Implications. The Falcons face one of their toughest challenges of the season this Friday as Central (6–2, 3–2) travels to take on Hueytown (5–3, 5–0) in a high-stakes Region 6A-4 showdown. With playoff berths already secured, both programs enter the week hungry to close out region play on a high note. Central is coming off a statement win over Brookwood, while Hueytown remains unbeaten in region competition, fueled by momentum and home-field pride. For the Falcons, this matchup is more than just another road trip, it is a test of poise, execution, and readiness as they fine-tune for postseason play.

Falcons Finding Balance on Offense. Central’s offense has been one of the most dynamic in the region, powered by a deep cast of skill players capable of striking from anywhere on the field. Anthony Dixon Jr. (Jr, RB/WR) continues to be the offensive catalyst, averaging 137.6 rushing yards per game and 11 total touchdowns, blending speed, vision, and physicality to wear down defenses. Tra’Von Hall (Jr, WR/RB) adds balance to the backfield, averaging 47.1 rushing yards per game with 10 total touchdowns, providing consistent production and big-play potential on the edge.

Under center, Armani White (Jr, QB) has been the steady hand, completing nearly 59% of his passes with a 106.9 quarterback rating, distributing the ball efficiently to his wideouts. Marcus Grayson (Sr, WR) leads the receiving corps with 57 yards per game, while Kannon Atkinson-Eubanks (Sr, WR) stretches defenses vertically, averaging 28.7 yards per game and creating spacing for Central’s intermediate routes. James Freeman (Sr, RB/WR) provides the physical presence in short-yardage situations, punching in crucial red-zone scores to sustain drives and close out possessions.

When Central’s offense establishes rhythm early, mixing tempo, play action, and ground dominance, the Falcons are at their most dangerous, capable of dictating the flow and pace of any game.

Defensive Discipline and Playmaking Prowess. Defensively, Central prides itself on speed, physicality, and disciplined pursuit. Jasiuah Rainer (Sr, S) remains the anchor of the secondary, averaging 9.1 tackles per game and providing leadership and stability at the back end. Linebackers TaQuarious Henderson (So, LB) and Jaden Taylor (Jr, LB) form one of the most productive tandems in the region, combining for more than 12 tackles per game while applying consistent pressure in blitz packages.

Up front, Jackson Carlisle (Sr, DL) and Marcus Muse (Jr, DL) set the tone with disruption, collapsing pockets and forcing hurried throws. Carlisle leads the unit with 3.0 sacks, while Muse’s ability to generate pressure off the edge has created multiple turnover opportunities this season. On the perimeter, Zaivion Cade (Sr, CB/S) and Javarski Lanier (Sr, CB) bring speed and awareness, tasked this week with containing Hueytown’s explosive passing attack.

Central’s defensive formula is simple yet effective: stop the run early, win the turnover battle, and make every yard earned. Against a Hueytown team averaging over 27 points per game, maintaining gap discipline and tackling efficiency will be paramount.

Hueytown’s Hot Streak and Home Advantage. The Golden Gophers (5–3, 5–0) have found their stride late in the season, winning five straight region games while averaging 32 points per contest during that span. Hueytown’s offensive balance and quick-strike capability have given opponents fits, and with home field advantage on their side, the Gophers will look to keep their region title hopes alive.

For Central, containing Hueytown’s tempo and minimizing explosive plays will be the difference. The Falcons’ defensive front must win at the line of scrimmage to neutralize the Gophers’ rushing attack, while the secondary will be tested against one of the most dynamic passing units in the region.

Final Outlook: Composure on the Road. Friday’s matchup promises to deliver the kind of intensity and emotion that defines late-season football in Alabama. For Central, the game offers a chance to build momentum and make a statement heading into the postseason — proving their resilience, focus, and readiness for the challenges ahead. The keys will be execution, discipline, and endurance — sustaining drives on offense, creating turnovers on defense, and controlling field position through special teams.

Expect a hard-fought contest filled with energy, grit, and pride. With the Falcons’ offensive firepower and defensive toughness squaring off against Hueytown’s home-field surge, Friday night under the lights will showcase two playoff-bound teams determined to finish strong and send a message before the postseason begins.

Offensive

• Jaedyn Powell (Sr, QB): The senior quarterback leads the offense with efficiency and poise, directing plays and managing the game.

• Anthony Robinson (Sr, RB/WR): Robinson is a dual-threat weapon, excelling in both the running and passing game to create explosive plays.

• Kobe Coleman (Sr, WR): A reliable receiver, Coleman stretches the field and provides a consistent target for Powell.

• Quentrell Jackson (Sr, WR/RB): Jackson’s versatility allows him to contribute as a runner and receiver, creating matchup problems for defenses.

• Keegan Horn (Sr, TE/DE): Horn provides a dependable receiving option and strong blocking in the run game.

• Anton Whitt (So, CB/RB): Whitt contributes as a runner out of the backfield and adds depth in the passing game.

• Kelden Leonard (Fr, WR): Leonard has shown promise as a freshman receiver, making key catches and adding depth.

• Shamaurian Roller (So, WR/FS): Roller’s athleticism allows him to make dynamic plays in the passing game when called upon.
  
  

Defensive

• Trelen Thompson (Sr, MLB/DE): Anchoring the defense, Thompson leads the team in tackles and pressures opposing quarterbacks.

• Jaden King (Sr, CB): King leads the secondary, providing coverage and creating turnovers.

• Keegan Horn (Sr, DE/TE): Horn contributes as a disruptive force on the defensive line, recording tackles for loss and sacks.

• Jaedyn Powell (Sr, QB): Occasionally used in defensive special situations, Powell adds versatility.

• Damoni Green (Fr, CB): A young cornerback showing promise in coverage and run support.

• Anthony Robinson (Sr, RB/WR): Contributes on defensive plays in goal-line or special formations.
  

Special Teams

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

Week 7 Recap vs. Brookwood + Week 8 Bye Week

Week 8 Bye Week Recap + Week 9 Preview @ Hueytown