The more things change …

Actually, all that changed in Class 7A in 2024 was the state playoff bracket and the eventual survivors’ route to Birmingham’s Protective Stadium. Thanks to Central-Phenix City’s 17-7 win over Hoover at home in the semifinals on Friday, the championship matchup is the same as it has been for four of the past six seasons. The Red Devils (10-2) will face Thompson (10-3) – a 31-7 winner over Enterprise – for the championship on Dec. 4 in Birmingham.