Alabama high school football rankings experienced a seismic shift this week as Clay-Chalkville stunned the state by dethroning longtime #1 Thompson in a thrilling 28-24 victory. After remaining undefeated, the Cougars leaped from fifth to first place in the AL.com Power 25 rankings, unanimously receiving all five first-place votes.
This dramatic upset has completely reshuffled our alabama high school football rankings 6A landscape, with Clay-Chalkville also claiming the top spot in the Alabama Sports Writers Association Class 6A rankings. Meanwhile, the alabama high school football rankings 7A category saw previous frontrunner Thompson drop after suffering their first defeat of the season. Additionally, several other Top 25 teams including Parker, Vestavia Hills, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa, and Spain Park all experienced drops in the rankings following their losses. Notably, Clay-Chalkville’s victory catapulted them an astonishing 264 spots in the national rankings, moving from #303 to #39.
In this breakdown of Week 6’s rankings, we’ll examine how Coach Stuart Floyd’s Cougars engineered their rise to prominence, analyze the major movers across all divisions, and look ahead to next week’s critical matchups that could further shake up the alabama high school football rankings 2025 season.
The new #1: Clay-Chalkville’s rise to the top
Clay-Chalkville’s meteoric rise in the alabama high school football rankings didn’t happen overnight. The Cougars have been building momentum throughout this season, but their defining moment came last Friday night at Warrior Stadium.
How they beat Thompson in a thriller
The Cougars’ victory over Thompson showcased their resilience and determination. Trailing by 10 points in the third quarter, Clay-Chalkville mounted an impressive comeback on the Warriors’ home turf. Senior quarterback Jaylen Mbakwe proved instrumental, connecting with star receiver Mario Craver for two critical touchdown passes in the final 15 minutes of play. The Cougars’ defense stepped up when it mattered most, forcing a crucial turnover with just 2:13 left on the clock that sealed their 28-24 triumph.
What stood out was Clay-Chalkville’s exceptional ball control—they possessed the ball for nearly 35 minutes compared to Thompson’s 13 minutes. This disciplined approach allowed them to wear down the Warriors’ defense and ultimately secure the upset victory.
What this win means for 6A rankings
Beyond simply claiming the top spot in the alabama high school football rankings 6a classification, this victory represents a significant power shift. For the first time in three seasons, a team other than Thompson sits atop the state rankings. Clay-Chalkville’s performance has earned them unanimous respect from voters, evidenced by receiving all first-place votes in this week’s poll.
Moreover, this win dramatically improved their national standing, vaulting them from outside the top 300 into the national conversation. The impact extends beyond rankings as college recruiters have reportedly increased their interest in several Cougars players since the victory.
Coach Stuart Floyd’s strategy and leadership
At the heart of Clay-Chalkville’s success stands Coach Stuart Floyd, whose preparation and tactical acumen have transformed this program. Floyd’s emphasis on discipline and situational awareness was evident in how his team executed during critical moments against Thompson.
“We don’t focus on rankings; we focus on process,” Floyd told reporters after the game. His philosophy centers on developing complete athletes—mentally and physically prepared for high-pressure situations.
Floyd’s balanced offensive approach and aggressive defensive scheme have become the team’s identity. His ability to make crucial in-game adjustments particularly shined when he shifted defensive coverage patterns in the second half, effectively neutralizing Thompson’s passing attack.
Top 25 Alabama high school football rankings: Week 6 snapshot
The Week 6 edition of the alabama high school football rankings reveals significant movement throughout the Power 25, with several surprising shifts beyond just the new top spot.
Biggest risers and fallers this week
Clay-Chalkville made the most notable climb in the rankings, leaping from fifth to first place after their stunning victory over Thompson. Their performance earned them all five first-place votes in the AL.com Power 25 poll. Simultaneously, Thompson experienced their first significant drop of the season after previously holding the top position throughout 2025.
Vestavia Hills took one of the hardest falls in the rankings after suffering a 35-3 loss, dropping from their previous #4 position. Likewise, Parker, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa, and Spain Park all saw their rankings decline following recent defeats.
Perhaps the most dramatic fall belonged to Dothan High, whose stay in the Power 25 was remarkably brief. After jumping into the #10 spot following a dominant win over Enterprise, they immediately tumbled out of the rankings after losing to Central-Phenix City.
Teams holding steady in the top 10
Despite shifts at the top, several powerhouse programs maintained their footing in the alabama high school football rankings 2025. Central-Phenix City remained firmly entrenched near the top of the rankings, now leading the Class 7A classification after edging past previous #1 Thompson in the Alabama Sports Writers Association poll.
Hewitt-Trussville, Auburn, and Muscle Shoals have all demonstrated remarkable consistency, holding their positions among the state’s elite programs. Jackson, representing Class 4A, continues to show impressive staying power in the top 10 against predominantly larger schools.
New entries into the Power 25
Four new teams crashed the alabama high school football rankings this week:
Hartselle made their entrance following an impressive 48-8 victory over Woodlawn. Piedmont, representing Class 3A, earned their spot through consistent performances. From the coastal region, Daphne solidified their position with a convincing 42-28 win over Spanish Fort[112]. Finally, Theodore rounded out the new additions to the Power 25.
These newcomers replaced several teams including Dothan, whose brief appearance in the rankings ended after just one week. The constant flux in the rankings underscores the highly competitive nature of alabama high school football rankings 2024 season.
Breaking down the rankings by class
Looking at each classification individually reveals fascinating patterns across the alabama high school football rankings landscape. Let’s examine how each division’s hierarchy has evolved in Week 6.
Alabama high school football rankings 7A: Key shifts
Central-Phenix City has claimed the 7A throne, receiving 12 first-place votes to edge past Thompson in the latest polls. The Warriors’ loss to Clay-Chalkville consequently dropped them to second position with 6 first-place votes. Hewitt-Trussville remains firmly entrenched at #3 with their undefeated 5-0 record.
Mary G. Montgomery continues its impressive run at #4, while Auburn rounds out the top 5. Opelika (4-1) and Vestavia Hills (3-2) hold the #6 and #7 spots respectively, though Vestavia Hills fell after their defeat to Thompson.
Alabama high school football rankings 6A: Clay-Chalkville leads
Clay-Chalkville has unanimously seized control of 6A, garnering all 15 first-place votes. Their perfect 5-0 record and statement win over Thompson cemented their position. Saraland stands at #2 with a spotless 5-0 record.
Parker (4-1) occupies the third spot, followed by Muscle Shoals (5-0) and Hartselle (4-0) completing a strong top five. Benjamin Russell and Pike Road have both climbed into the top 10.
Alabama high school football rankings 5A: Underdogs making noise
Vigor dominates the 5A rankings with 15 first-place votes and a perfect 5-0 record. Moody sits firmly in second place with three first-place votes. Williamson (5-0), Fairview (5-0), and Guntersville (5-0) round out the top five, showcasing the division’s competitive balance.
Central-Clay County has emerged as a notable riser, currently occupying the #6 position. Northside, Scottsboro, Leeds and Eufaula complete the top 10.
What to watch in Week 7
Week 7 brings pivotal matchups across Alabama that could further reshuffle the state’s high school football hierarchy. As teams head into critical region contests, several factors will influence next week’s alabama high school football rankings.
Top matchups that could shake up the rankings
Friday night features 146 Alabama high school football games, including 13 contests between ranked teams that will undoubtedly impact the top 25 alabama high school football rankings. The most anticipated showdown pits No. 1 Thompson against No. 9 Clay-Chalkville in what could be a championship preview.
Another must-watch contest sees No. 12 Pike Road traveling to No. 8 Opelika, as both teams fight to solidify their positions. In addition, Central at Brookwood presents an interesting regional clash, with Central desperately needing a win to keep playoff hopes alive after four consecutive losses.
Sipsey Valley (4-3) faces Demopolis (4-2) in a crucial 5A, Region 3 matchup – their first meeting since 2020. Demopolis enters riding a 25-game region winning streak and seeking their fifth straight region championship.
Players to keep an eye on
Several standout performers deserve attention in Week 7. Senior quarterback Jake Roberson leads all passers with an impressive 1,729 yards through six games. Right behind him, Oxford’s Mason Mims has accumulated 1,678 yards, while Calera’s Antorious Johnson has thrown for 1,634 yards.
In the running game, Brock Bradley of Spain Park continues to power the Jaguars’ undefeated season. Auburn’s offense, now ranked #1 in the state, features explosive playmakers who have averaged over 38 points per game.
Clay-Chalkville quarterback Aaron Frye warrants special attention after throwing for 974 yards already this season. His leadership has been instrumental in the Cougars’ perfect 6-0 record.
How strength of schedule is impacting rankings
Strength of schedule has become increasingly crucial in determining alabama high school football rankings 2025. Teams facing tougher opponents receive greater consideration even with identical records.
The current ranking system incorporates multiple factors beyond wins and losses: returning production, roster talent, coaching continuity, and quality of opposition. This comprehensive approach explains why Vestavia Hills (ranked #20) maintains their position in the top 25 alabama high school football rankings despite a 1-4 record – they’ve faced exceptionally tough competition.
Conversely, teams like Oxford (ranked #14) remain perfect at 6-0 but face questions about their relatively easier schedule. As region play intensifies, upcoming head-to-head matchups between ranked teams will provide clearer differentiation.
Predictions for next week’s top 5
Based on upcoming matchups and current trajectories, expect significant movement in next week’s top 5 alabama high school football rankings 7a and overall standings.
If Clay-Chalkville defeats Thompson, they’ll cement their #1 ranking and possibly create separation at the top. Auburn should remain in the top 3 with their balanced attack, especially if they handle Smiths Station as expected.
Central-Phenix City will likely rebound against Carver-Montgomery, potentially reclaiming the #2 spot. Saraland faces a manageable challenge against St. Paul’s and should preserve their undefeated record.
The fifth spot remains a toss-up between Thompson, Hewitt-Trussville, and Enterprise – much depending on Thompson’s performance against Clay-Chalkville.
Week 6 of the Alabama high school football season has undoubtedly delivered one of the most dramatic shake-ups in recent memory. Clay-Chalkville’s stunning victory over Thompson has completely transformed the competitive landscape, proving once again why high school football in Alabama remains unpredictable and thrilling. Their remarkable leap from fifth to first place showcases how quickly fortunes can change on any given Friday night.
Looking ahead to Week 7, fans should expect another round of potential upsets as 13 matchups between ranked teams loom large. The rematch between Thompson and Clay-Chalkville stands out as the marquee game that could either solidify the Cougars’ newfound status or help the Warriors reclaim their throne. Meanwhile, players like Jake Roberson, Mason Mims, and Antorious Johnson continue to put up impressive numbers that deserve attention.
Teams throughout all classifications face crucial region games that will significantly impact playoff positioning. Central-Phenix City appears poised to maintain their 7A dominance, while Clay-Chalkville has emphatically stamped their authority on 6A. Strength of schedule now plays a bigger role than ever before, explaining why some teams with losing records still command respect in the rankings.
Alabama high school football rankings will likely undergo additional changes as we move deeper into the season. Coach Stuart Floyd’s leadership at Clay-Chalkville demonstrates how proper preparation and tactical awareness can elevate programs to championship contenders. Though rankings matter, they ultimately serve as mere snapshots of teams still developing their identities through the crucible of competition.
Regardless of how the rankings shift next week, the passionate crowds, dedicated players, and committed coaches ensure that Alabama high school football remains among the most competitive and exciting in the nation. The stage certainly appears set for an unforgettable conclusion to the 2025 season.