Four weeks remain until the first Friday night lights of the North Alabama high school football season, a timeline that has coaches, players and fans marking calendars for the August 20‑21 kickoff.
The annual Football in the South Media Days drew more than 60 squads, giving journalists a first look at storylines that will shape the coming months. Among the buzz was the arrival of Darrell Higgins as the new head coach at Russellville, where he inherits a program eager for a fresh start.
Championship pedigree meets new leadership
Higgins spent the last decade at Mars Hill Bible, guiding the team to four state championships and earning a reputation for demanding hard work, fostering teamwork and keeping the atmosphere fun. His move to Russellville signals a blend of proven success and a desire to instill those same values in a different community.
At Muscle Shoals, Michael Darden steps into the head‑coach role after serving as offensive coordinator. He promises to preserve the program’s storied traditions while adding his own strategic touches, a stance that has already resonated with returning players and alumni.
Both schools are part of a broader regional push that includes teams from Huntsville, Russellville and Muscle Shoals, each hoping to translate early‑season momentum into playoff contention and, ultimately, a shot at the Super 7 Championship.
The excitement is palpable as the first games approach, with coaches emphasizing preparation, community support and the chance to write new chapters in their programs’ histories.