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 statement 37–21 road win over top-ranked Hueytown, our Falcons closed out region play in dominant fashion — balanced, battle-tested, and ready for what’s next. That victory was more than a game; it was a reflection of our growth, discipline, and unwavering belief in one another.

After using Week 10 to reset, recover, and refocus, we now turn our attention to Week 11 — the start of playoff football. This Friday, we travel to Alexander City to face a tough Benjamin Russell team in the first round. The stakes are high, but our mindset remains the same: play fast, stay focused, and finish strong. Every rep, every drive, and every play matters from here on out.

Your support continues to make the difference. From the stands to the sidelines, and across our community, your energy fuels our pursuit of excellence. As we step into postseason play, thank you for believing in our mission and for standing with us as we continue Chasing Greatness.

With gratitude,
Coach Pippen

Falcons Rise on the Road, Stun Hueytown to Close Out Region Play!

It was a statement night under the lights in Hueytown on October 24 as Central silenced a packed home crowd with a commanding 37–21 victory over top-ranked Hueytown, closing out Region 4 play in dominant fashion. The win snapped the Golden Gophers’ three-game streak and solidified Central’s standing among Alabama’s 6A elite.

Junior quarterback Armani White led the charge, going 7-of-14 for 152 yards and a touchdown while adding 63 rushing yards and another score. Tra’Von Hall, the Offensive Player of the Game, provided steady production to keep the Falcons’ offense balanced, while Anthony Dixon, Jr., the Overall Player of the Game, delivered a career night with 213 all-purpose yards and three total touchdowns, including a 56-yard kickoff return that broke the game wide open.

Defensively, Jasiuah Rainer set the tone as the Defensive Player of the Game, tallying eight tackles, two for loss, a sack, and two interceptions — one returned for a touchdown. Camden Nickerson, named Special Teams Player of the Game, was steady in coverage and helped spark field position battles that kept Hueytown pinned deep all night.

With the regular season now complete, the Falcons carry confidence and momentum into November football — battle-tested, balanced, and ready for the postseason.

Click to view Game Day Pictures from CHS Falcons Football!

Click to view more pictures from Central @ Hueytown!

Join us at LongHorn Steakhouse in Midtown for a special pre-playoff dinner with our Falcon Football team!

Community members are invited to fellowship with us by purchasing a meal, enjoying great food, and showing support as we gear up for Round 1 of the playoffs! 💥

Let’s pack LongHorn and show our FALCON PRIDE! 🦅🧱

📅: Thursday, November 6
⏰: 7:00 PM
📍: LongHorn Steakhouse // 1800 McFarland Blvd E Suite 412, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Special Thanks to Ms. Natasha Dixon and LongHorn Steakhouse Midtown-Tuscaloosa!

The excitement is building in Falcon Nation as Central High School prepares to send its football team off in style for the first round of the playoffs! On Friday, November 7, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., the entire community is invited to line the route from the auditorium and gym area to the field house for a spirited Falcon Football Send-Off.

Students, staff, feeder schools, parents, and community members will gather to cheer on the Falcons, waving signs and showing their support as the team heads out to face the Benjamin Russell Wildcats at the Charles E. Bailey Sportsplex in Alexander City later that evening.

The send-off marks not only a major athletic milestone but also a celebration of teamwork, perseverance, and community pride. Central High School encourages everyone to join in, wear Falcon gear and/or school colors, and help give the Falcons the energetic send-off they deserve before their 7:00 p.m. playoff kickoff.

Playoff Energy Meets High Stakes in Alexander City

The Central Falcons (7–2, 4–2 in 6A Region 4, ranked #4) close the regular season with one of their biggest challenges yet — a road battle against the top-ranked Benjamin Russell Wildcats (9–1, 6–0 in 6A Region 3) this Friday night in Alexander City. Both teams have already punched their playoff tickets, but this matchup is more than a tune-up; it’s a chance for Central to test itself against one of Alabama’s most complete programs. The Wildcats are fresh off a dominant 45–13 win over Percy Julian, while the Falcons carry momentum after a 37–21 statement victory against top-ranked Hueytown.

Offensive Rhythm and Ground Control. Central’s offense has hit midseason form behind the composure of junior quarterback Armani White, who has thrown for 1,139 yards and 9 touchdowns while completing 58% of his passes and averaging over 126 yards per game. White’s poise and command of the huddle have allowed him to distribute the ball efficiently, keeping the Falcons’ offense balanced and dangerous through the air. When White settles in, the Falcons’ attack hums. Leading the ground game, Anthony Dixon Jr. has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards, using his combination of vision and power to control tempo and wear down opposing fronts.

Complementing White, Tra’Von Hall has emerged as a dynamic, all-purpose threat, racking up 737 total yards—including 439 rushing and 298 receiving—while crossing the end zone 10 times and averaging over 81 yards per game. His explosive playmaking continues to energize the Falcons’ offense and keep defenses off balance. On the edges, Marcus Grayson provides reliability and strong hands across the middle, while Kannon Atkinson-Eubanks stretches defenses vertically, forcing safeties to stay honest. When Central’s balance clicks — punishing runs, timely passes, and controlled pace — few defenses have been able to keep up.

Defensive Discipline and Relentless Pursuit. The Falcons’ defense has built its reputation on physicality, speed, and discipline. Senior Jasiuah Rainer, the unit’s emotional heartbeat, has recorded 81 total tackles this season, making his presence felt in both run support and pass coverage. Linebackers Jaden Taylor and TaQuarious Henderson have been key in controlling the middle of the field, combining for 88 tackles and consistently generating pressure that keeps opposing offenses on their heels.

Up front, Jackson Carlisle and Marcus Muse anchor a defensive line that thrives on collapsing pockets and creating disruption. Carlisle leads the unit with 54 tackles and 5 sacks, while Muse adds 43 tackles, 1 interception returned 26 yards, and 1 defensive touchdown, consistently keeping offenses off balance and providing a scoring spark. In the secondary, corners Zaivion Cade and Javarski Lanier bring sharp instincts and closing speed, with Lanier already snagging 2 interceptions this season to swing momentum in the Falcons’ favor. Against Benjamin Russell’s high-powered offense, their disciplined pursuit, playmaking ability, and knack for scoring will be tested from the first snap to the final whistle.

Wildcats’ Balance and Home-Field Momentum. The Benjamin Russell Wildcats have rolled through the season with a near-perfect blend of offensive versatility and defensive toughness. Sophomore quarterback Kingston Preyear has thrown for 1,779 yards and 24 touchdowns, adding 366 rushing yards to keep defenses guessing. The Wildcats’ ground game is powered by senior Jyque Norris and senior B.j. Bedgood, who have combined for nearly 1,000 rushing yards, while top receiving threats Cederian Morgan and Eric Young have amassed over 880 yards and 11 touchdowns, providing explosive playmakers across the field. Defensively, senior Charles Chappelle has been a force with 99 tackles and 12 tackles for loss, senior Brandon Hicks adds 71 tackles and 2 sacks, and junior Kenderious Byrd contributes 56 tackles and 5 sacks, creating relentless pressure on opposing offenses. The Wildcats’ secondary has generated 17 interceptions, shifting momentum at crucial moments, while special teams have made a difference with senior Lajayvious Calhoun excelling on returns and junior Caleb Kendrick making big plays in coverage. With balanced firepower, a ferocious defense, and opportunistic special teams, Benjamin Russell plays every game with home-field momentum and a formula that has made them one of the region’s most formidable teams.

Special Teams Spark and Field Control. Games like this often swing on special teams, and Central’s unit has quietly been a difference-maker all season. Kicker Graham Wolfe has delivered consistency under pressure, nailing key extra points and flipping field position with confident boots. Jaelon Bramlett has been a force on kick coverage — flying downfield, setting the edge, and pinning opponents deep — a relentless energy that’s contagious across the roster. Meanwhile, Hall and Atkinson-Eubanks bring danger in the return game, each capable of turning momentum with one breakaway run. When all three phases connect, Central plays with a championship pulse.

Final Outlook: Statement Opportunity on the Road. Friday’s matchup promises playoff-level intensity and emotion. Benjamin Russell’s home-field advantage and balanced offense make them a formidable opponent, but Central’s recent surge, led by a confident offense and a disciplined defense, has them primed for the challenge.

For the Falcons, this isn’t just another game — it’s a chance to measure progress, sharpen focus, and send a message heading into the postseason. With grit, composure, and a few explosive plays, Central has the tools to turn Friday night into a statement under the Alexander City lights.

Game Day Tickets

Click the button to purchase tickets for Central @ Benjamin Russell!

Central Falcons 🦅

Offensive Standouts

The Falcons’ offense has been a balanced and explosive unit this season, led by a talented mix of playmakers who can create big plays on the ground and through the air.

Armani White (Jr, QB): White has been the steady hand at quarterback, completing 57.8% of his passes for 1,139 yards with 9 touchdowns and a QB rating of 107.5. He also adds a rushing threat with 297 yards and 2 rushing touchdowns, giving defenses dual challenges.
Tra’Von Hall (Jr, WR/RB): Hall is a dynamic dual-threat, totaling 737 all-purpose yards with 10 touchdowns, contributing both as a rusher (439 yards, 8 TDs) and receiver (298 yards, 2 TDs) to keep opponents off balance.
Anthony Dixon Jr. (Jr, RB/WR): Dixon has been the Falcons’ most explosive offensive weapon, accumulating 1,337 all-purpose yards and 11 touchdowns. His combination of speed and vision makes him a consistent big-play threat.
Kannon Atkinson‑Eubanks (Sr, WR): Atkinson‑Eubanks has been Central’s deep-threat specialist, hauling in 201 receiving yards with 3 touchdowns, stretching defenses and opening lanes for other playmakers.
Marcus Grayson (Sr, WR): Grayson is a reliable target in the passing game, adding 203 receiving yards with crisp route running and dependable hands in key situations.
Zaivion Cade (Sr, RB/WR): Cade contributes in multiple ways, rushing for 117 yards, catching 35 receiving yards, and adding versatility to the offensive attack.
James Freeman (Jr, RB): Freeman provides a strong backfield presence, rushing for 165 yards and 4 touchdowns while also contributing 85 all-purpose yards on special teams, helping sustain drives and convert in critical situations.

Defensive Playmakers

Central’s defense combines speed, physicality, and instinct to keep opponents off balance. These players have anchored the unit with tackles, sacks, turnovers, and big-play ability.

Jasiuah Rainer (Sr, S): Rainer leads the Falcons with 81 total tackles, including 9 tackles for loss, and adds a sack and an interception. His range, leadership, and ability to read plays anchor the secondary.
Jackson Carlisle (Sr, DL): Carlisle is the defensive line’s cornerstone, recording 54 total tackles with 5 sacks and a forced fumble. His ability to collapse pockets and disrupt plays makes him a game-changer.
Marcus Muse (Jr, DL): Muse has been a versatile defensive presence, tallying 43 total tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception, and 2 caused fumbles. He contributes across the line and creates opportunities for teammates.
TaQuarious Henderson (So, LB): Henderson combines instincts and athleticism, totaling 50 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery. His speed allows him to read plays and make stops against both the run and pass.
Jaden Taylor (Jr, LB): Taylor has 38 tackles with 3 tackles for loss and a sack. His consistency in the middle helps control the line of scrimmage and support the secondary.
Javarski Lanier (Sr, CB): Lanier anchors the secondary with 33 total tackles and 2 interceptions, providing coverage strength and preventing explosive plays through the air.
Joshua Evans (Sr, LB/S): Evans contributes 48 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks, making him a versatile force in both run support and quarterback pressure.

Special Teams Contributors

Central’s special teams have provided momentum-shifting plays, from reliable kicking to dynamic returns. These players help set the tone and give the Falcons crucial advantages in field position and scoring opportunities.

Graham Wolfe (Sr, K): Wolfe has been a consistent presence for Central’s kicking game, converting 40 of 43 PATs and 3 of 7 field goals, with a long of 43 yards. His accuracy and composure give the Falcons confidence in close-game situations.
Ja'Bari Marshall (Jr, OL/LS): Marshall contributes both on coverage units and as a long snapper, helping maintain field position while adding 9 total tackles on special teams. His reliability ensures smooth execution on kicks and punts.
Tra'Von Hall (Jr, WR/RB): Hall has also been a key contributor in all-purpose yards, including returns, with 737 total yards this season. His vision and speed make him a constant threat in the return game, flipping field position in Central’s favor.
Jaelon Bramlett (Jr, WR/KR): Bramlett adds explosiveness to Central’s return units, contributing 85 kick return yards and showing playmaking ability that can energize the team and swing momentum in critical moments.

Benjamin Russell Wildcats 🐾

Offensive

Kingston Preyear (So, QB): Preyear leads the passing attack, completing 116 of 191 passes for 1,779 yards and 24 touchdowns. His poise in the pocket and ability to spread the field make him the engine of Benjamin Russell’s offense.
Alijah Johnson (Sr, QB/RB): Johnson contributes as both a secondary passer and a dynamic runner, rushing for 254 yards and 9 touchdowns, while adding 60 receiving yards, giving the Wildcats flexibility and dual-threat options.
Lajayvious Calhoun (Sr, RB/CB): Calhoun adds a spark on the ground and in the return game, totaling 422 all-purpose yards, including 36 receiving yards and contributions on kick and punt returns. His versatility keeps defenses honest.
Cederian Morgan (Sr, WR): Morgan is the Wildcats’ primary deep threat, hauling in 54 receptions for 759 yards and 9 touchdowns, providing a reliable target in critical situations and stretching defenses vertically.
Jyque Norris (Sr, RB/WR): Norris balances the rushing attack with 466 yards and 6 touchdowns, while adding 52 receiving yards, giving Benjamin Russell a potent two-way weapon in the backfield and out of the slot.
B.J. Bedgood (Sr, WR): Bedgood has been a consistent scoring threat, recording 34 receptions for 531 yards and 7 touchdowns, while adding 142 return yards, showing impact in multiple phases of the game.
Joshua Harriell (Jr, RB/WR): Harriell provides depth and versatility, rushing for 311 yards and adding 9 receiving yards, making him a complementary playmaker who can create opportunities in both ground and passing schemes.

Defensive

Cameron Chappelle (Sr, LB/DE): Chappelle leads the team in tackles with 99 total, including 60 solo stops and 12 tackles for loss. His ability to disrupt both the run and pass makes him the heart of the defense.
Kameron Byrd (Jr, DL/LB): Byrd is a sack specialist, recording 5 sacks while contributing 56 tackles. His power at the line of scrimmage creates pressure and forces opponents into mistakes.
Cameron Kendrick (Jr, LB/DE): Kendrick has been a versatile defensive weapon with 75 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, and 40 fumble return yards, making game-changing plays that swing momentum.
Brandon Hicks (Sr, LB): Hicks has anchored the linebacking corps with 71 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles, combining run-stopping prowess with playmaking instincts.
Cameron Davis (So, DL/LB): Davis contributes both inside and on the edge, recording 49 tackles and 4 sacks while recovering a fumble, showcasing a knack for timely plays.
Andre Johnson (Sr, LB/DB): Johnson adds versatility to the defense with 41 tackles, 1 sack, 6 interceptions, and 3 passes defended, making him a threat in coverage and a ballhawk in the secondary.
Lajayvious Calhoun (Sr, DB/RB): Calhoun excels in the defensive backfield, recording 28 tackles and 3 interceptions for 146 yards, including one defensive touchdown, making him a playmaker against both the pass and the run.

Special Teams

Lajayvious Calhoun (Sr, DB/RB): Calhoun is a dynamic returner, leading the Wildcats with 151 punt return yards and 83 kickoff return yards. His vision and speed make him a constant threat to break big plays in the open field.
Brandon Bedgood (Sr, WR/DB): Bedgood contributes both as a kickoff and punt returner, totaling 142 kickoff return yards and 16 punt return yards, including one fair catch. His versatility adds a spark to special teams.
Andre Johnson (Sr, LB/DB): Johnson has made an impact with 104 kickoff return yards, showing the ability to generate momentum on returns and contribute in multiple phases of the game.
Cameron Spears (Sr, DB/P): Spears anchors the punting unit, recording 27 punts for 570 yards with an average of 21.1 yards and a long of 45 yards. His punts have helped the Wildcats control field position and pin opponents deep in their own territory.
Gage Murphee (Fr, K/DB): Murphee has been a reliable kickoff specialist, averaging 10 touchbacks on 15 kickoffs, giving the Wildcats consistent starting field position and limiting return opportunities.
Cameron Murphree (Jr, LB/DB): Murphree also contributes in kickoffs, totaling 20 touchbacks on 37 kickoffs, combining distance and accuracy to help control field position.

On Thursday, November 6th, will celebrate our Defensive Coordinator & Linebackers Coach, Russell Rivers' birthday!

A veteran coach, proud alum of Stillman College, brother of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and mentor to countless young athletes, Coach Rivers enters his third season with the Falcons. With nearly two decades of coaching experience in football and nine years in track & field, he has built a reputation for developing disciplined, hard-nosed athletes and shaping championship-caliber teams.

Known for his strategic mind, relentless drive, and dedication to character development, Coach Rivers inspires his players both on and off the field. From collegiate programs to high school teams across Alabama, his leadership and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on every program he has been a part of.

We are proud to celebrate Coach Rivers and grateful for the energy, knowledge, and passion he brings to Central High School Falcons Football Program!

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.

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!

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

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