The 2026 Alabama high school football season promises to be a thrilling affair, with a multitude of questions and storylines to keep fans on the edge of their seats. From the potential dethroning of a powerhouse program to the rise of underdogs, this season is shaping up to be a spectacle. Here's a deep dive into some of the most intriguing questions and topics that will dominate the gridiron this year.
Thompson's Dominance
Can anyone dethrone the mighty Thompson? Mark Freeman's Warriors have dominated the Class 7A scene, winning the last two titles and six of the last seven overall. With the new AHSAA reclassification, Thompson moves to Class 6A, but the core team remains intact. The question is, who will step up to challenge them? Central-Phenix City, led by new coach Cody Flournoy, comes into the season with a strong case, having narrowly lost to Thompson in the state semifinals. Other contenders include Auburn, Spain Park, Hoover, Hewitt-Trussville, Prattville, and Opelika. The AHSAA Kickoff Classic on August 20th in Phenix City will provide an early glimpse into the season's potential contenders.
Dale Pruitt's Title Quest
Dale Pruitt, in his 45th year as a head coach, is seeking his first state title at Plainview. With his son, Jeremy Pruitt, leading the defense and Coosa Christian transfers Mac Long and Kylen Johnson on offense, the Bears are a force to be reckoned with. Pruitt's experience and the talent on his team make him a serious contender for the top spot. The question is, will he finally break through and bring home the championship?
Mr. Football Defense
Can a defensive player win Mr. Football? It's a rare feat, with only Blount's Demarco McNeil achieving it in 1998. This year, several candidates emerge, including Thompson's Cam Pritchett and Junior Tu'upo, Ramsay's Karlos May, Vigor's Jabarrius Garror and Isaac McNeil, and Williamson's Ellis McGaskin and Jaylen Scott. The question is, can any of these defensive stars make history and become the first predominantly defensive player to win Mr. Football?
All-Time Leading Passer
The battle for the state's all-time leading passer is on. St. Michael's Gunner Rivers and Thompson's Trent Seaborn are in a tight race, both having already thrown for over 10,000 yards in their careers. Rivers and Seaborn will be vying to finish their high school careers as the top passer, with former Piedmont star Jack Hayes holding the current record at 11,024 yards. The question is, who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes competition?
Philip Rivers' NFL Future
NFL legend Philip Rivers, now head coach at St. Michael Catholic, has a 42-16 record and led his team to the 4A semifinals. With his oldest son, Gunner, now a senior, the question arises: will Philip eventually coach in the NFL? His high-profile return as an NFL player last December and interview for the Buffalo Bills' head coaching job hint at a potential future in the NFL. However, his current happiness as a high school coach and his desire to stay involved in the game suggest he may be content to follow in his dad's footsteps for now.
Private School Champions
The new AHSAA divisions for private schools are wide open. With only 16 football-playing schools in the Double-A division, favorites include McGill-Toolen, St. Michael, St. Paul's, UMS-Wright, Briarwood, and Montgomery Catholic. In the Single-A division, Bayside Academy, Mobile Christian, and Cottage Hill are contenders. The question is, who will emerge as the first private school champions in these new divisions?
Gulf States Independent Athletic Association
A new athletic league, the Gulf States Independent Athletic Association, is set to start play in 2027. Macon-East Montgomery coach and head of school Glynn Lott has been a driving force behind this league, which will include schools currently in the Alabama Independent School Association and any AHSAA private schools interested in joining. The question is, how many private schools will make the switch and join this new league?
Columbia's Winning Streak
Can Columbia High School break its 101-game losing streak? The Eagles last won in 2015, and former Auburn wide receiver turned head coach Sammie Coates gave them hope in 2025 with a 0-10 record. The question is, can Columbia turn things around and finally taste victory?
Surprise Teams
Russell County and James Clemens are teams to watch. Russell County has been on an upward trajectory under head coach Dillon Griggs, with a 10-2 record in 2025. James Clemens, under Juan Johnson, made the 7A playoffs last year but fell in the opening round. The question is, can they continue to impress and surprise fans this season?
Pell City's Playoff Fate
Will Mary G. Montgomery and Pell City be playoff eligible? Both schools were placed on restrictive probation in May, with a 2026 playoff ban. The AHSAA's decision has sparked an appeal process, with the Central Board of Control and District Boards reviewing the case. The question remains, will Pell City and Mary G. Montgomery be allowed to compete in the playoffs this year?
The 2026 Alabama high school football season is set to be a thrilling journey, with a mix of powerhouses, underdogs, and potential upsets. From the battle for the state's top spot to the rise of new leagues and the quest for playoff eligibility, this season promises to be a spectacle that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
