The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness
Recapping the Journey to Greatness.
Falcon Nation,
We are proud to bring you this postseason edition of The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness, your inside look at Falcon Football. Last Friday night, our Falcons battled in their first playoff appearance since 2018, going toe-to-toe with one of Alabama’s top-ranked programs, Benjamin Russell. Though the game didn’t end in our favor, our players left everything on the field—playing with heart, grit, and pride that reflect just how far this team has come.
This season was about more than wins and losses—it was about growth, belief, and building a foundation for sustained success. From the first snap of the season to the final whistle of the playoffs, our team showed resilience, unity, and relentless effort. Every challenge became a chance to improve, and every game reminded us that the best is yet to come.
To our fans, sponsors, school community, and community partners—thank you for your unwavering support all season long. Your cheers in the stands, encouragement online, and constant belief in our mission have fueled our journey. You are the heartbeat of this program, and we could not do it without you.
As we enter the off-season, our focus turns to building, developing, and preparing to take the next step. The standard has been set, and the future is bright for Falcon Football. We can’t wait to see everyone back in the stands next season as we continue Chasing Greatness—together.
With gratitude and Falcon Pride,
Coach Pippen
Falcons Fight Hard but Fall Short to Wildcats in Competitive 6A Playoff Clash.
The Central Falcons traveled to Alexander City last Friday night to open postseason play against one of Alabama’s top programs — the Benjamin Russell Wildcats. In a battle marked by explosive offense and defensive grit, the Falcons showed flashes of brilliance but ultimately came up short, falling 26–14 to the Wildcats in the opening round of the Class 6A playoffs. The Falcons finished the 2025 season with a record of 7–3, 4–2 in 6A Region 4, and ranked #4 in the region.
Early Momentum and Offensive Balance. Central entered the contest with confidence, fresh off back-to-back statement wins to close the regular season, and wasted no time setting an aggressive tone. Junior quarterback Armani White commanded the offense efficiently, completing 13 of 16 passes for 180 yards and keeping the Falcons’ attack balanced. On the ground, the one-two punch of Tra’Von Hall and Anthony Dixon Jr. powered the offense with a combined 155 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Hall continued his all-purpose excellence, breaking loose for 80 rushing yards and one touchdown while also hauling in four receptions for 57 yards. Dixon provided the highlight of the night with a 65-yard burst to the end zone, showcasing his trademark mix of speed and strength.
Senior receiver Kannon Atkinson-Eubanks led the air attack with four receptions for 60 yards, while freshman Jarvis Woods and seniors KeAundra Harris and Marcus Grayson added timely catches to move the chains. Central finished with 420 total yards of offense, demonstrating the balance and rhythm that carried them through the season.
Defensive Pressure and Relentless Pursuit. Despite the loss, Central’s defense continued to play with the edge and intensity that has defined its identity all year. The Falcons recorded four sacks on the night, led by Jaden Taylor and Jackson Carlisle, who each tallied 1.5 sacks. Taylor also added eight tackles, two tackles for loss, and a crucial interception, while Carlisle anchored the front line with nine tackles and four stops behind the line of scrimmage.
Sophomore TaQuarious Henderson and senior Marcus Muse contributed in the trenches, combining for another sack and multiple pressures that kept Benjamin Russell’s high-powered offense uncomfortable throughout stretches of the game. Seniors Jasiuah Rainer and Josh Evans provided strong support at linebacker, combining for 15 total tackles to hold the Wildcats’ run game to just 3.9 yards per carry.
Benjamin Russell’s Aerial Attack Takes Control. While Central’s defense forced multiple third-down situations, Benjamin Russell’s sophomore quarterback Kingston Preyear delivered a career performance, throwing for 403 yards and four touchdowns. His poise and precision through the air proved to be the difference. Senior receivers B.J. Bedgood (8 receptions, 215 yards, 2 TDs) and Cederian Morgan (8 receptions, 164 yards, 2 TDs) were nearly unstoppable on the perimeter, combining for all four of the Wildcats’ scores.
Central’s secondary battled valiantly — with Lanier, Cade, and Harris providing tight coverage and physical play — but the Wildcats’ vertical passing game found just enough separation to capitalize on key drives.
Special Teams and Game-Changing Moments. Senior kicker Graham Wolfe remained near perfect during the night, converting both of his PAT attempts and maintaining consistency under pressure, and having one field goal attempt blocked. Central’s coverage units held firm, limiting Benjamin Russell to just 11 return yards and forcing long fields for much of the evening.
The turning point came late in the third quarter when a long Wildcat touchdown pass extended the lead to two scores, forcing Central to play catch-up. Despite several promising drives behind White’s composure and Hall’s quick cuts, the Falcons couldn’t close the gap as time expired.
Pride, Progress, and Perspective. The loss ends a strong season for the Falcons, who finish 7–3 overall after a year marked by growth, resilience, and a return to playoff form. Central’s roster — stacked with underclassmen play makers like White, Hall, and Dixon — showed that the program’s foundation is built for sustained success.
Head Coach DeMario Pippen’s squad leaves the field with heads held high, knowing they went toe-to-toe with one of the state’s elite teams and proved they belong among Alabama’s best. With an explosive offense, a disciplined defense, and a core group set to return next season, the Falcons’ future remains bright.
