TIME-OUT: Central Dominates, Pacelli Shines, and Basketball Tips-Off

Every so often, there’s a weekend in local sports that reminds everyone just how rich the talent is in the Chattahoochee Valley. From the gridiron to the hardwood, from powerhouse programs to emerging dynasties, this week was a showcase of pure dominance, and it started with Central High School. Another game, another win, another shutout and another statement from the Central Lady Red Devils. The defending AHSAA 6A/7A state champions continue to show why they are the gold standard of girl's flag football, dismantling Spanish Fort 39–0 in the second round of the playoffs.

It’s been a run of perfection for the Red Devils, who opened postseason play by crushing Northridge 52–0. Central hasn’t given up a single point in six straight games a streak that borders on historic. Their defense has become the stuff of legend, forcing turnovers, closing gaps, and making life miserable for every opponent that dares line up across from them. Defensive standouts Madison Fuller and Mariah Harrison both came away with interceptions in the win, with Fuller taking one all the way to the house for a pick-six. Behind their relentless pressure and lockdown coverage, Central extended their winning streak to 54 straight games — an incredible testament to discipline, preparation, and championship culture. The Lady Red Devils will be back in action Tuesday night at home, facing the winner of Opelika vs. Dothan in what could be another step toward a third straight state crown. With 15 shutouts in 17 games this season and only one contest going a full four quarters Central continues to redefine what dominance looks like.

Not to be outdone, the Central boys football team made their own playoff statement, blowing past the Hoover Buccaneers 34–10 in the opening round of the AHSAA 7A playoffs. Star running back Jayshaun Woodhouse powered the offense, racking up 186 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a 65-yard burst that electrified the home crowd. Woodhouse also added 30 yards through the air, showing off his versatility. JJ Joiner delivered another explosive performance, hauling in 138 receiving yards and two touchdowns, while the defense played lights out once again.

Marquise Cooper and Amaree Law each came up with interceptions, while Tristan Lyles led the front seven with a sack and nine tackles three of them for loss. Central has now won five straight games, improving to 10–1 and allowing just 11.4 points per game during that stretch. They’ll face Fairhope in the second round this Friday at 8 p.m., looking to continue their march toward another championship run.

Across town, the St. Anne-Pacelli Lady Vikings kept their momentum rolling, extending their win streak to nine straight with a 22–0 blowout over Heritage. Over their last eight games, the Vikings have outscored opponents by nearly 20 points per contest, showing no signs of slowing down. Mia Camp was the engine once again, rushing for 88 yards on just 10 carries and adding a touchdown reception — marking a new career high in rushing yards. KK Jackson also shined, hauling in 80 receiving yards and two touchdowns in another standout performance. The Lady Vikings now sit at 15–1, playing with confidence, chemistry, and the kind of swagger that makes them a serious postseason threat.

Moving from the field to the hardwood, the defending state champion Hardaway Lady Hawks officially tipped off their season in style at the Tip-Off Classic. Junior guard Jaylah Todd earned MVP honors, stuffing the stat sheet with 13 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals a true all-around performance. Freshman phenom Amerria Crowley made an immediate impact as well, posting a dominant 18 points and 13 rebounds, signaling that the Lady Hawks have reloaded and are ready to defend their crown.

The Richard Mahone Freshman Tournament was another major highlight of the weekend, celebrating the city’s deep pool of young basketball talent. The Carver Tigers emerged as Tournament Champions, while the Spencer Greenwaves finished as Runner-Up, capping a weekend filled with energy, sportsmanship, and promise. The annual event continues to grow each year, honoring the late Coach Richard Mahone’s legacy of excellence, mentorship, and community leadership. It’s more than just a tournament it’s a platform for building confidence, character, and competition among the next generation of Columbus athletes.

What’s Next: Upcoming Schedule

Middle School Football Playoffs – Odis Spencer Stadium

• 5:30 PM: Aaron Cohn vs. East Columbus
• 7:15 PM: Richards vs. Midland

Thursday, Nov. 13 – GHSA Playoffs Round 1

• 7:30 PM: Spencer vs. Miller Grove @ Buck Godfrey Stadium

Flag Football

• 5:30 PM: Carver @ Hardaway
• 6:45 PM: Columbus @ Jordan
• 6:45 PM: Kendrick vs. Spencer @ Hardaway
• 6:45 PM: Northside vs. Shaw @ Terry Gaines

Friday, Nov. 14 – GHSA Playoffs Round 1

• 7:00 PM: Carver vs. Redan @ Odis Spencer
• 7:30 PM: Columbus vs. Hapeville @ Banneker

Saturday, Nov. 15 – Basketball Action

• 11:30 AM (G): Carver/Hardaway @ Carrollton
• 1:00 PM (G) / 3:00 PM (B): Kendrick @ Carver-Atlanta
• 2:00 PM (G) / 3:30 PM (B): Jordan @ Stewart Co.
• 4:00 PM (G) / 5:30 PM (B): Whitewater @ Columbus
• 6:00 PM (G) / 7:30 PM (B): Shaw @ Chattahoochee Co.

And before we close out another week of sports, the area captures another championship crown this time by the Columbus High School Boys Cross Country Team, who captured the GHSA Class 2A State Championship in Carrollton! The Lady Blue Devils also made their mark, finishing as State Runner-Up, led by Olivia DiQuattro, who claimed the Individual State Title. From the football field to the finish line, from the hardwood to the sidelines the Chattahoochee Valley continues to prove why it’s one of the most competitive and proud regions in all of Georgia and Alabama sports.