Time-Out: Friday Night Lights Shine Bright in the Valley

Week after week, high school football across the Valley continues to deliver thrills, big-time performances, and statement wins. Last Friday was no different as several local teams showcased dominance, resilience, and championship-level potential. From Carver’s continued march of perfection to Central’s powerhouse performance and Calvary Christian’s unshakable grip on victory, the energy under the lights was electric.

Carver came into their showdown with Northside carrying a perfect record, and they left Odis Spencer Stadium with that same unblemished mark intact. The Tigers controlled the tempo from the opening kickoff, rolling past the Patriots 31-12 in a game that never felt in doubt. What makes Carver so dangerous is their ability to spread the wealth offensively, and this time it was Kelston Tarver who stole the show. Tarver carved through the Northside defense with ease, rushing for 118 yards and two touchdowns on just 11 carries. He has now eclipsed 109 yards in every game this season, making him one of the most reliable and explosive backs in the region. Not to be overshadowed, Jakobe Caslin delivered a complete performance with 138 total yards and a touchdown, earning Double Coverage Player of the Game honors. With playmakers like Tarver and Caslin, Carver has proven they can beat teams in multiple ways, and at 4-0, they look every bit the powerhouse their record suggests. Northside, meanwhile, continues to search for answers after their third straight loss, falling to 1-3.

As Carver looks ahead, they’ll run into one of their toughest tests yet: the undefeated Columbus Blue Devils. The Blue Devils enter at 3-0 after dismantling Jordan 49-6 in their most dominant performance of the year. Columbus’ offense was firing on all cylinders, racking up a season-high 347 rushing yards. The star of the night was Grant Geringer, who turned just a handful of touches into fireworks. Geringer rushed for 46 yards and a touchdown while also hauling in a 64-yard bomb to the end zone, making the most of his opportunities. With a punishing ground game and an opportunistic defense, Columbus proved once again why they are a legitimate threat in the city’s title picture. Tonight, showdown between Carver and Columbus is shaping up to be one of the biggest early-season clashes in recent memory.

The Shaw Raiders also had reason to celebrate, picking up their first victory of the year with a 32-14 win over Hardaway. Shaw has had the Hawks’ number in recent years, and this marked their fourth consecutive win in the rivalry. The Raiders, now 1-3, will hope to use this win as momentum, while Hardaway continues to struggle, falling to 0-4 after their third straight home loss.

Across state lines, the Central Red Devils put on a show against one of Alabama’s best. Facing off with Dothan in a highly anticipated matchup, Central made a loud statement with a 56-28 victory, their sixth straight over the Wolves. Central’s backfield was unstoppable, with Jayshaun Woodhouse leading the charge by rushing for 150 yards and three touchdowns on just six carries. Not to be outdone, Donovan Crow added 123 yards and a score, also on just six carries. The Red Devils piled up 276 rushing yards, their highest total of the season, and complemented their offensive fireworks with a relentless defense. Tristan Lyles was a force, recording three sacks and averaging 5.5 tackles per game on the year. Central now stands at a perfect 4-0, while Dothan’s first loss drops them to 3-1.

Meanwhile, Calvary Christian showed why they remain one of the most consistent programs in the area. The Knights took care of Flint River Academy 22-7 to stay undefeated at 4-0. Jamar Williams led the way with a touchdown through the air and another on the ground, while quarterback Braxton Wilkinson threw for 107 yards and two scores. The defense was equally impressive, holding Flint River to just 3.4 yards per carry and snagging two interceptions courtesy of Jaiden Jackson and Jackson Samara. Add in a monster performance from Liam Hocutt, who tallied 18 tackles with three for loss, and it’s clear Calvary has a complete team ready for a deep run.

Brookstone also kept their perfect record alive, extending their win streak to five games after defeating Southwest Georgia Academy 35-14. Quarterback Broughton Branch was sensational, throwing for a career-high 307 yards and four touchdowns. His favorite target, Sammie Laboy, once again put on a show with 126 receiving yards and two scores, while also adding a rushing touchdown. The Cougars improved to 5-0 and now prepare for a road test against Stratford Academy.

Tonight promises even more action. Tonight’s slate features Carver vs. Columbus at Odis Spencer, Jordan vs. Spencer at Kinnett, Hardaway vs. Kendrick at Memorial (homecoming), and Shaw traveling to face Sumter County.

Beyond Friday night lights, the community will also be out in full force on Saturday for the 67th Annual Columbus Youth Football Opening Day Jamboree at Memorial Stadium. Gates open at 7:30 a.m., with the opening ceremony kicking off at 9:00 a.m., and wall-to-wall football all day long.

Another week of football is in the books, and once again, our local teams showed grit, firepower, and heart. Whether it’s Carver chasing perfection, Columbus proving they belong among the elite, or Central showing Alabama they’re still the top dog, the storylines are only getting better. The season is young, but every game is adding to a narrative that’s shaping up to be unforgettable. As we move into another week of battles under the lights, one thing is for certain: football in the Valley is alive, well, and only heating up.