Week 7 of Alabama high school football brings a full slate of region games that could shape the race for conference titles. The Under the Lights series returns after a mix of open dates and non‑region contests, and local fans should mark their calendars for several pivotal matchups.
Hoover (3‑3) vs. Thompson (5‑0) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Hoover Met
After a heartbreaking 20‑17 loss to Knoxville Catholic that hinged on a last‑second Hail Mary, the Hoover Bucs are eager to bounce back against arch‑rival Thompson. The Warriors entered the week on a perfect 5‑0 record, highlighted by a 62‑7 blowout of Tuscaloosa County. Hoover has a history of rising to the occasion against Thompson, holding a 26‑9 series edge.
Spain Park (3‑2) at Prattville (5‑0) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Stanley‑Jensen Stadium, Prattville
Both teams enjoyed an open date last week. Spain Park is looking to recover from a disappointing loss to Vestavia Hills, while Prattville remains unbeaten in Class 6A, Region 3. The Jags have shown they can compete with the region’s best when playing at full speed.
Briarwood (6‑0) at St. John Paul II (0‑5) – Thursday, Oct. 1, 7 p.m., Joe Davis Stadium, Huntsville
Briarwood secured a narrow 24‑21 win over Montgomery Catholic thanks to a clutch fourth‑down conversion. The Lions, now 6‑0, will face a struggling St. John Paul II squad that entered the game winless. Briarwood is expected to dominate this regional contest.
John Carroll (3‑2) at Westminster (0‑5) – Thursday, Oct. 1, 7 p.m., Earl Van Dyke Stadium, Huntsville
John Carroll returns from an open date after back‑to‑back regional victories, while Westminster is still searching for its first win. The Cavs are favored to continue their winning ways.
Chelsea (0‑5) vs. Helena (3‑2) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Chelsea High School
Chelsea is still searching for its first victory of the season. Helena snapped a two‑game slump with a 33‑27 overtime win over Pleasant Grove and will look to extend that momentum.
Hewitt‑Trussville (3‑2) at Oak Mountain (1‑4) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Heardmont Park
After a loss to Prattville, Hewitt‑Trussville aims to re‑establish confidence as a top Class 6A contender. Oak Mountain, coming off an open date, is still seeking its first regional win.
Mountain Brook (4‑2) vs. Ramsay (5‑1) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Spartan Stadium
Mountain Brook relied on stout defense to edge Oxford 10‑3 in non‑region play. Ramsay, riding a four‑game winning streak, is a hot contender in Class 5A, Region 4. This game could be pivotal for the region title race.
Game of the Week – Homewood (4‑1) vs. Calera (4‑1) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Waldrop Stadium
Both teams sit at 4‑1 and are vying for the top spot in Class 5A, Region 4. Homewood, fresh off an open date, hopes to cement its status as a frontrunner, while Calera looks to secure a playoff berth.
Vestavia Hills (4‑1) at Tuscaloosa County (0‑5) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Tuscaloosa County High School
Vestavia Hills, coming off a dominant win over Spain Park, should handle the winless Tuscaloosa County, which is playing its first game under an interim coach. The Rebels aim to keep momentum heading into a rivalry game with Hoover next week.
Clay‑Chalkville (4‑1) vs. Pell City (2‑4) – Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m., Cougar Stadium
Clay‑Chalkville, fresh from a 49‑14 stadium‑opening win, has won 19 of its last 20 games. Pell City’s record is deceptive, reflecting a very tough schedule. The Clay‑Chalkville Lions are favored.
These matchups set the stage for an exciting second half of the season, with several teams positioning themselves for playoff contention and regional supremacy. Stay tuned to Under the Lights on X and Facebook for live updates and post‑game analysis.
Original reporting: Hoover Sun — read the source article.
