A Turnaround in Alabama
The Eagles of Columbia High finally broke a century‑long winless streak, downing Greensboro 41‑14 in a season‑opening showdown that left the town buzzing. The victory marked the first win for the program since October 16, 2015, ending a 101‑game slide that had become a defining story for the school.
Taking the helm in January 2025, former Auburn star Sammie Coates inherited a team that had opened the season 0‑10. Drawing on his own experience as an NFL receiver, Coates reshaped practice routines and emphasized discipline, and the early signs of his philosophy began to emerge.
The game itself unfolded with Greensboro striking first, building a 14‑0 lead by halftime. Yet the Eagles rallied in the final quarter, scoring 41 unanswered points and flipping the momentum. The burst of offense not only secured the win but also illustrated the stark contrast between the first half and the explosive finish.
Fans poured onto the field, chanting the names of the players and the coach, while Coates took the opportunity to praise the collective effort. "It’s about the kids," he said, "not about me. Their hard work earned this moment." The celebration underscored how deeply the victory resonated within the community.