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The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness

Recapping the Journey to Greatness.

The Extra Point: Chasing Greatness Recapping the Journey to Greatness.
The Extra Point:Chasing GreatnessRecapping the Journey to Greatness.

@ Gardendale Recap + vs. McAdory Preview @ Gardendale Recap + vs. McAdory Preview

September 29, 2025 September 29, 2025

A Message from Coach Pippen A Message from Coach Pippen

DeMario Pippen, Head Coach
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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 Week 6 and Game 7, this update highlights standout performances, key moments from recent match ups, 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 one to remember!

With gratitude,

Coach Pippen

JV Moves to 3-0! 🧱 JV Moves to 3-0! 🧱

JV Falcons Tame the Jaguars!

Big congratulations to our JV team! They kept the momentum rolling in Game 3 with a 6-0 victory over Northridge! 🔥


Do not miss the action — tonight, Monday, September 29th at 6:00 PM at Hillcrest, our team takes on the Patriots under the lights for some exciting Monday Night Football for Game 4!

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🎟️ JV Game Day Tickets 🎟️ 🎟️ JV Game Day Tickets 🎟️

Purchase JV Game Day Tickets!
Click the Button to Purchase JV Game Day Tickets @ Hillcrest.

Week 5 Recap 🧱 Week 5 Recap 🧱

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Falcons Ground the Rockets in 49–14 Rout!

Central’s trip to Gardendale turned into a full-blown showcase of firepower Friday night, as the Falcons overwhelmed the Rockets 49–14 and left little doubt about who controlled the night. From the very first possession, Central dictated the tempo, blending explosive runs with timely passes and quickly building a 42–7 halftime lead that silenced the home crowd.


Anthony Dixon, Jr. was the sparkplug, slicing through Gardendale’s defense for 126 rushing yards and two touchdowns on just seven carries. His 85-yard sprint down the sideline was the signature highlight, the kind of backbreaking play that shifted momentum for good. Dixon was not just dangerous on the ground — he added a 32-yard touchdown reception to finish with three total scores, showing why he remains one of the region’s most dynamic players.

Quarterback Armani White orchestrated the attack with precision, completing 9 of 16 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns. He spread the ball around to multiple playmakers, including senior Ke'Aundra Harris, who hauled in a 52-yard touchdown strike, and Marcus Grayson, who caught three passes for 57 yards. White also contributed on the ground, adding 16 rushing yards on three carries.


The Falcons’ ground game gave Gardendale fits all night. Tra’Von Hall broke free for a 69-yard touchdown run as part of his 76-yard night, while James Freeman added two short-yardage scores to cap drives and keep pressure on the Rockets. Even role players like Zaivion Cade and freshman Anthony Shepherd chipped in, combining for 36 yards on limited touches. Overall, Central averaged a staggering 14.4 yards per carry, making it nearly impossible for Gardendale to adjust.


The turning point came late in the first quarter. After Gardendale cut the lead to 14–7, Dixon immediately responded with his 85-yard score, and the Falcons reeled off four straight touchdowns before the Rockets could regain any footing. From that moment, Central controlled the game entirely.

Defensively, the Falcons were equally dominant. Central stifled Gardendale’s run game and forced hurried throws, limiting the Rockets to just two touchdowns. Any momentum Gardendale tried to build was quickly extinguished, and the Falcons consistently forced long-field situations that prevented sustained drives.

By the end of the night, Central had amassed 459 yards of total offense — 274 on the ground and 185 through the air — proving once again that balance and explosiveness can coexist. The Falcons, now 5–1, are starting to hit their stride, while Gardendale falls to 0–6 and will look to regroup as Homewood comes to town next week.

For Central, this was not just a win — it was a statement. The Falcons did not just ground the Rockets; they never let them leave the launchpad.

Players of the Game 🏆 Players of the Game 🏆

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Armani White - Overall

Class: 2027
Position(s): QB

Hudl
MaxPreps


Height: 5'10"
Weight: 180 lbs
Bench: 205 lbs
Squat: 475 lbs
40 Yard Dash: 4.75

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Anthony Dixon, Jr. - Offensive

Class: 2027
Position(s): CB, WR

Hudl
MaxPreps


Height: 6'0"
Weight: 162 lbs
Bench: 205 lbs
Squat: 275 lbs
40 Yard Dash: 4.45

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Javarski Lanier - Defensive

Class: 2027
Position(s): CB, WR
Hudl
MaxPreps

Height: 6'0"
Weight: 161 lbs
Bench: 235 lbs
Squat: 435 lbs
40 Yard Dash: 4.55

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Camden Nickerson - Special Teams

Class: 2027
Position(s): WR
Hudl
MaxPreps

Height: 5'8"
Weight: 165 lbs
Squat: 345 lbs
40 Yard Dash: 4.84

🦅 Falcon Fridays with Ben Riches 🦅 🦅 Falcon Fridays with Ben Riches 🦅

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Pictures from Central @ Gardendale 📸 Pictures from Central @ Gardendale 📸

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Click to view Game Day Pictures from CHS Falcons Football!
Click to view more pictures from Central @ Gardendale!

Glow Gardendale Away Recap Video Glow Gardendale Away Recap Video

Game Week 5 Recap: Central-Tuscaloosa @ Gardendale (Courtesy of @Cfree519)

Game Week 6 Preview: Central Falcons vs McAdory Yellow Jackets Game Week 6 Preview: Central Falcons vs McAdory Yellow Jackets

Falcons Take Flight Against Yellow Jackets in Region Showdown!

Falcon Field is ready for a Friday night clash that could shake up 6A Region 4. Central (5–1, 2–1) hosts undefeated McAdory (4–0, 2–0) in a match up where speed meets power, and every play could swing momentum. With Anthony Dixon, Jr. and Armani White leading a balanced Falcon attack, and Kawann Johnson and Justin Patton spearheading a high-flying Yellow Jackets offense, fans are in for explosive plays, big hits, and a game that could go down to the wire. Regional rankings, playoff positioning, and bragging rights are all on the line — this one is shaping up to be a Friday night showdown you will not want to miss.

Central comes in with confidence after dominating Gardendale 49–14 in their last outing. Anthony Dixon, Jr. has been a nightmare for defenses, combining speed, vision, and power to rack up yardage in both the run and passing game. Quarterback Armani White has distributed the ball efficiently, keeping multiple play makers involved, including Tra’Von Hall and James Freeman, who have each contributed explosive runs. The Falcons’ offensive line will need to open lanes and provide protection, as sustaining drives will be crucial against a fast, aggressive McAdory defense.

McAdory, ranked second in the region, brings a potent offensive attack led by senior running back Kawann Johnson, who averages 116 yards and two touchdowns per game, and Derrion Davis, who adds nearly 95 yards per contest and four scores this season. Quarterback Justin Patton has shown a remarkable ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground, tossing multiple touchdowns in each game, including five in the Yellow Jackets’ 54–27 win over Brookwood. On the perimeter, Marcus Briggs and Carter Feagin provide deep-threat options capable of stretching Central’s defense and forcing big plays. Defensively, senior Deleon Chambers has been a disruptive force, leading tackles and pressuring the backfield consistently.

Special teams and turnovers could tip the scales in this matchup, as both squads are capable of flipping field position or scoring in a hurry. Central will look to stay disciplined against McAdory’s speed and explosive athletes, forcing them into long drives and contested throws, while the Yellow Jackets aim to impose their tempo and pressure the Falcons into mistakes.

This Friday’s game promises to be a battle of balance versus firepower, speed versus power, and strategy versus execution. Central will seek to defend home turf, maintain a strong running game, and test McAdory’s defensive resilience. McAdory will try to extend its unbeaten run and prove it can dominate against the region’s top contenders.

With regional rankings and playoff positioning on the line, this matchup under the Friday night lights is shaping up to be a must-watch contest for Falcon fans and football enthusiasts across the area.

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Players to Watch 👀 Players to Watch 👀

Central Falcons 🦅

Offense

  • Anthony Dixon Jr. (Jr, RB/WR): Central’s primary offensive weapon, averaging 137.5 rushing yards per game with 10 total touchdowns. Dixon can turn any play into a big gain, whether on the ground or through the air.
  • Tra’Von Hall (Jr, WR/RB): The versatile playmaker complements Dixon with 44.3 rushing yards per game and eight total touchdowns. Hall’s speed and field vision make him a constant threat.
  • Anthony Shepherd (Fr, HB): A promising freshman, averaging 32.7 rushing yards per game. Shepherd adds depth and has the ability to turn short gains into explosive plays.
  • Kannon Atkinson-Eubanks (Sr, WR): Deep threat with 24.8 receiving yards per game and two touchdowns. Eubanks stretches defenses and opens space underneath for Dixon and short passing options.
  • Armani White (Jr, QB): The steady hand under center, distributing the ball with accuracy and poise. White’s ability to read the defense and create plays is central to Central’s balanced attack.
  • James Freeman (Sr, RB/WR): Strong in short-yardage and red-zone situations, Freeman provides a physical presence and can punch the ball into the end zone.
  • Marcus Grayson (Sr, WR): Reliable target with 57 receiving yards per game. Grayson’s route-running and hands make him a steady option in crucial situations.


Defense

  • Jasiuah Rainer (Sr, S): Defensive anchor, averaging 9.5 tackles per game. Rainer’s range and instincts allow him to make plays all over the field.
  • TaQuarious Henderson (So, LB): Impactful linebacker with 6.8 tackles per game and two sacks. Henderson excels at sniffing out plays and pressuring the backfield.
  • Jaden Taylor (Jr, LB): Strong against the run, averaging 6.7 tackles per game. Taylor stabilizes the middle of the defense and often halts drives with key stops.
  • Jackson Carlisle (Sr, DL): Disruptive lineman with three sacks, can collapse the pocket and force hurried throws.
  • Marcus Muse (Jr, DL): Consistent presence in the trenches, recording tackles for loss and helping create turnover opportunities.
  • Zaivion Cade (Sr, CB/S): Versatile defensive back with speed and instincts to cover receivers, break up passes, and support the run.
  • Javarski Lanier (Sr, CB): Senior corner providing experience and coverage skills, key for defending against deep threats.


Special Teams

  • Graham Wolfe (Sr, K): Central’s reliable kicker, handling extra points and field goals with consistency.
  • Au’taurus Richardson (Jr, ATH): Dangerous in kick and punt returns, capable of flipping field position or breaking one for a score.
  • Josh Evans (Sr, MLB/LS): Also contributes to special teams, providing solid snaps and coverage, helping Central control field position.

McAdory Yellow Jackets 🐝

Offense

  • Justin Patton (Sr, QB): The engine of McAdory’s offense. Patton averages 28.5 rushing yards per game and has shown the ability to make plays with both his arm and legs. He’s capable of extending plays and hitting receivers in stride, keeping defenses guessing.
  • Kawann Johnson (Sr, RB): McAdory’s leading rusher at 116 yards per game. Johnson is a powerful and explosive runner who consistently moves the chains and scores in critical situations.
  • Derrion Davis (Sr, RB): Adds balance to the backfield with 94.5 rushing yards per game and four touchdowns this season. Davis’ vision and agility make him dangerous in open space and in short-yardage situations.
  • Carter Feagin (Jr, WR): McAdory’s top receiving threat, averaging 94 yards per game. Feagin stretches the field vertically and is a consistent red-zone target.
  • Marcus Briggs (Jr, WR): Reliable and dynamic, averaging 55.8 receiving yards per game with three touchdowns. Briggs is dangerous in space and a matchup problem for cornerbacks.
  • Marvin Sanders (So, WR): Emerging playmaker with 18.5 receiving yards per game. Adds depth to the receiving corps and can contribute on big plays when defenses focus on the top two targets.


Defense

  • Deleon Chambers (Sr, LB/DB): Defensive leader and tackling machine, averaging double-digit tackles in several games. Chambers can disrupt the backfield, cover receivers, and make game-changing stops.
  • Jaylen Williams (So, CB): Ballhawk in the secondary with multiple pass breakups. Williams’ speed and anticipation make him dangerous in coverage and against outside runs.
  • Tyrone Watkins (Jr, DL): A disruptive lineman who can pressure the quarterback, stop the run, and collapse pockets.
  • Caleb Jenkins (Sr, LB): Experienced linebacker who reads plays well and supports the defense in stopping big runs.


Special Teams

  • Devonte Patton (Sr, K/P): McAdory’s reliable kicker and punter. Patton’s consistency in field goals and ability to flip field position with punts is a key advantage.
  • Zayden Harris (Jr, Returner/WR): Dangerous on kick and punt returns, capable of explosive plays that can shift momentum quickly.

🎟️Varsity Game Day Tickets 🎟️ 🎟️Varsity Game Day Tickets 🎟️

Purchase Varsity Game Day Tickets
Click the button to purchase varsity game day tickets vs. McAdory.

Game Day Safety Information Game Day Safety Information

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

Sideline, Media, and Recruiting Access Policies & Passes Sideline, Media, and Recruiting Access Policies & Passes

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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!

Join our Official ParentSquare Group! Join our Official ParentSquare Group!

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.

Join the CHS Falcons Community ParentSquare Today!
Community partners and members, click the button to join our community ParentSquare -- you will get automatic updates directly from there weekly!

Thank You to Our First Down Sponsors! Thank You to Our First Down Sponsors!

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

2025-26 First Down Sponsors
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Would you like to become a Sponsor? Would you like to become a Sponsor?

Contact us Today!

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

2025 Varsity Schedule 2025 Varsity Schedule

2025 Schedule
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2025 JV Schedule 2025 JV Schedule

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Newsletter Archive 📰 Newsletter Archive 📰

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

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Central High School Falcons Football
chs.tuscaloosacityschools.com/athletics/football
The Central High School Falcons are soaring into the 2025 season with passion, determination, and a legacy of excellence! Competing in Class 6A Region 4 on Falcon Field at the Lue C. Mims Jr. Athletic Complex, the Falcons have been a powerhouse since their inaugural season in 1979-80. With two State Championships (1995, 2007) and over 20 playoff appearances, this program has shaped champions—sending talent to NCAA football and even the NFL. Under the leadership of Head Coach DeMario Pippen, we are building on our previous seasons and continuing to Chase Greatness.
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