The 2025 Alabama high school football season is set to kick off with plenty of excitement and storylines to watch. Leading the charge is Thompson High School, a perennial powerhouse aiming for its sixth Class 7A title in the past seven years. The Warriors will open their campaign next week against No. 10-ranked Carver Montgomery, a matchup that could set the tone for another championship run.
Thompson enters the season ranked No. 1 in the High School Football America Alabama Top 10, powered by NFL Play Football. Nationally, the Warriors hold the No. 14 spot in the HSFA 300 rankings, cementing their status as one of the top programs in the country. Their opponent, Carver Montgomery, is no pushover—coming in at No. 10 in the state rankings thanks to a competitive 2024 season.
The Early Test: Carver Montgomery
For head coach Mark Thompson and his squad, the opening matchup against Carver Montgomery will be a key early challenge. The Wolverines finished 6-3 last season and will be eager to prove they belong among Alabama’s elite. A win over the reigning state champions would instantly boost their confidence and season outlook.
Week 2 Showdown with Grayson
While Week 1 is important, all eyes will be on Week 2 when Thompson travels to face Grayson, Georgia’s reigning 6A champion. Ranked No. 4 in the national HSFA 300, Grayson boasts one of the most talented rosters in the country. The Warriors will be looking for redemption after last year’s heartbreaking 15-14 overtime loss to the Rams. This non-conference clash could have national ranking implications for both programs.
Other Contenders in the State
Thompson isn’t the only program entering 2025 with championship aspirations. Auburn High School, last year’s state quarterfinalist and Thompson’s postseason victim, is ranked No. 2 in Alabama and No. 85 nationally. The Tigers will open their season against Booker from Sarasota, Florida, in what should be a solid test right out of the gate.
No. 3 Hoover faces perhaps the toughest opener of any Alabama team, hosting national powerhouse IMG Academy from Florida. IMG is ranked No. 5 nationally and is known for producing top-tier college football talent. A win for Hoover would instantly put them in the national spotlight.
Central (Phenix City), last year’s Class 7A runner-up, begins the year at No. 4 in Alabama and No. 92 nationally. The Red Devils have a challenging schedule ahead, including a September 26 date with IMG Academy.
The Class 6A Powerhouse
Parker High School, the reigning Class 6A champion, opens 2025 at No. 5 in Alabama and No. 106 nationally. With an impressive 14-1 record last year, Parker is poised to continue dominating in its division, though it will be keeping an eye on the higher-class teams for potential postseason showdowns.
Complete 2025 Alabama Top 10 Rankings
| Rank | Team | Record | HSFA 300 Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| No. 1 | Thompson | (11-3) | 14 |
| No. 2 | Auburn | (10-1) | 85 |
| No. 3 | Hoover | (10-3) | 88 |
| No. 4 | Central (Phenix City) | (10-2) | 92 |
| No. 5 | Parker | (14-1) | 106 |
| No. 6 | Saraland | (13-1) | 146 |
| No. 7 | Hewitt-Trussville | (8-3) | 164 |
| No. 8 | Opelika | (9-3) | 181 |
| No. 9 | Oxford | (13-1) | 198 |
| No. 10 | Carver Montgomery | (6-3) | 228 |
Key Storylines to Watch
- Thompson’s Title Defense: Can the Warriors continue their dominance in Class 7A and add another championship to their dynasty?
- National Showdowns: Alabama teams like Thompson, Hoover, and Central will face nationally ranked opponents early in the season.
- Rising Programs: Teams like Parker and Saraland are looking to climb the rankings and challenge the established elite.
- Early Season Upsets: With so many ranked matchups in the opening weeks, surprises could shake up both the state and national rankings.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Alabama high school football season promises intense competition, marquee matchups, and plenty of drama. Thompson may be the favorite, but with Auburn, Hoover, Central, and others hungry for success, the road to the Class 7A title will not be easy. The Warriors’ opening clash with Carver Montgomery and the Week 2 battle against Grayson will provide early indicators of whether this team can maintain its championship standard.
As always, the High School Football America rankings—powered by a proprietary algorithm—will track the progress of Alabama’s top programs throughout the year, offering fans a data-driven look at who’s truly the best in the state.