The 2025 high school football season in Alabama’s Class 5A Region 7 is poised to begin with both the Muscle Shoals Trojans and the Florence Falcons eager to make their mark. Fans and players alike are watching closely as each program navigates a pivotal transition period.
A New Era for the Trojans
After a long tenure, Scott Basden stepped down as head coach of the Trojans, ending an era that provided stability and a defined offensive system. His successor, Michael Darden, who spent five years as offensive coordinator, has taken the reins and pledged to preserve the existing framework while injecting his own energy into the program.
Darden emphasized continuity, stating that the established systems will remain unchanged as the team moves forward. This approach aims to maintain momentum while allowing the new coaching staff to focus on fine‑tuning execution.
Falcons Pursue Incremental Gains
At Florence, veteran head coach Kenny Morson continues to guide the Falcons, a team that finished the previous season with six victories. Morson has underscored a measured approach, prioritizing early‑season preparation and steady progress as the squad readies for its Week Zero clash with Pinson Valley.
The schedule places Muscle Shoals against Hoover in the opening week, while Florence will test itself against Pinson Valley in the same weekend. Both teams are navigating a reshuffled regional alignment, but coaches stress that the priority is to build chemistry and refine execution before conference play intensifies.
Players on both sides are embracing the changes, with veterans looking to mentor younger teammates and newcomers eager to prove themselves. The coaches agree that incremental improvement, rather than immediate breakthroughs, will define their campaigns.