General News

General

Spring sports roundup: No. 1 4A Orange Beach routs 3A No. 10 T.R. Miller

Top-ranked Class 4A Orange Beach exploded for 10 runs in the second inning on the way to a 16-4 softball rout of Class 3A No. 10 T.R. Miller at home on Friday.

The Makos finished with 12 hits on the day and overcame 2 errors in the 5-inning win. T.R. Miller managed 6 hits and was perfect in the field.

No. 9 hitter Taylor Poland drove in 5 runs with a home run and a triple in her 2-for-2 day at the plate. The sophomore right fielder also scored a pair of runs for Orange Beach.

Ava Hodo and Teagan Revette also had home runs for the Makos with Revette going 2-for-2 with 2 RBIs and 2 runs and Hodo finishing 1-for-2 with 3 RBIs and a run scored. Brenleigh Harvell (1-for-1) and Kathryn King (2-for-2) both had triples with King driving in a run. Adelynn Oldham was 1-for-2 with a double, an RBI and a run scored in the win. Laura Robbins was 2-for-3 on the day with a run.

Starter Justine Henderson earned the win in the circle, allowing 3 earned runs on 4 hits with 2 strikeouts and 3 walks over 3 innings. Relievers Kaitlynn Robertson struck out 2 and allowed a hit in an inning and Miley Kate McMullan struck out 2 with an unearned run on a hit in the final inning.

Freshman Madi Anderson was 2-for-2 with a solo home run for the Tigers. Meg Fountain went 2-for-3 with a run, Kate Rambach was 1-for-2 with an RBI and Kylie Walton drove in a run for T.R. Miller. Ellie Miller was 1-for-2 at the plate in the loss.

Ollie Billingsley was saddled with the loss, allowing 12 earned runs on 7 hits with 5 walks and 2 strikeouts. Walton worked 2 innings in relief, allowing 4 earned runs on 5 hits with a strikeout in 2 innings.

Orange Beach will host 4A Area 1 rival St. Michael on Monday at 5 p.m. and Satsuma at 7 p.m. on Tuesday while T.R. Miller is scheduled to host Jay, Fla., on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

In other high school spring sports action from across the state over the weekend:

GIRLS

SOFTBALL

MOBILE/COASTAL ALABAMA

Spanish Fort 4, Auburn 3 (8)

The top-ranked Class 6A Toros split a pair of games in the Berry Strong Tournament at Spanish Fort on Saturday and won a pair on Friday in the event. Spanish Fort – playing without senior Louisiana Lafayette commitment Haley Hart for the past week – is 23-6 on the season.

In a win over 7A No. 10 Auburn, the Toros tied the game with a run in the bottom of the seventh and walked it off in the eighth on a sacrifice fly by Alexa Nance. Maddie Nelson was 2-for-4 with a 2-run home run and 3 RBIs in the win. Maggie Pollock and Madison Griffith also had multiple hits.

Mallarie Beagle did not allow an earned run in her complete-game performance for Spanish Fort. She allowed 6 hits and struck out 6.

Also on Saturday, Fairhope beat Spanish Fort 6-2 despite being out-hit 8-4 by the Toros.

The Pirates scored a pair of runs in the opening inning – on two wild pitches – to take a 2-1 lead and pushed across 4 runs in the bottom of the second. Spanish Fort added a run in the top of the sixth.

Jazlyn Romero singled to lead off the second for Fairhope and scored on a single by Mia Gates with 2 outs. Briley Bolden smacked a 3-run home run to left field for the 6-1 advantage. Mallory Earp had the Pirates’ other hit.

Lily Guimarin got the complete-game win, allowing 2 earned runs on 8 hits with 3 strikeouts and 3 walks.

Delaney Duncan was 2-for-4 for Spanish Fort with Griffith, Pollock, AT Luke, Cayden Dorger, Pressley Parks and Jayla Harris also collecting a hit apiece.

Dorger took the loss, allowing 6 runs – 5 earned – on 4 hits with 3 strikeouts and 2 walks.

On Friday, the Toros pounded out 15 hits on the way to a 14-2 win over Biloxi, Miss. Nelson was 3-for-3 with a double and 2 RBIs. AC Nimmer had 2 doubles and 4 RBIs and Nance, Duncan, Brieghton Dawson and Duncan also contributing multiple hits.

Isabelle Walker got the win in the 5-inning game, allowing an earned run on 5 hits with a strikeout.

Spanish Fort shut out Alma Bryant 5-0 on Friday with Duncan going 3-for-3 and Griffith getting 2 singles and a pair of stolen bases. Nance, Parks, Nelson, Pollock and Luke also had hits.

Luke got the complete-game win, giving up 1 hit with 2 strikeouts.

No. 9 hitter Katelyn Hamilton picked up Alma Bryant’s lone hit. Madelyn Ladnier took the loss, giving up 5 earned runs on 10 hits with 5 strikeouts and 3 walks.

Daphne 9, Beauregard 0

The third-ranked Class 7A Trojans won four games in the Alex Wilcox Memorial tournament in Montgomery over the weekend, including a 3-1 win over No. 4 Tuscaloosa County.

University of Alabama commitment Vic Moten, who got her 1,000th career strikeout in a 17-0 win over Foley on Thursday, combined with Campbell Hicks to blank Beauregard in Daphne’s final tourney game. Moten worked the first 4 of the 5-inning game, allowing a hit with 9 strikeouts. Hicks struck out 2 in the final inning.

Abby Johnson went 3-for-4 with a double and 3 RBIs. Seventh grader Claire Senese was 3-for-3 with an RBI and Farley Harris, Hannah Newport were both 2-for-3. Moten, Cammy Herport, Mariah Williams, Kylie Stokes, Dasia Matt and Karsyn Barnett also had hits in the win.

Beauregard’s Raegan Brooks got the Hornets’ lone hit and Mary Payton Dees was saddled with the loss. Dees gave up 6 earned runs on 11 hits with 2 strikeouts and 2 walks.

Also Saturday, Moten no-hit Prattville in a 6-0 Daphne win. The senior struck out 17 Lions in the 6-inning win.

Johnson was 2-for-3 with a pair of triples and 2 RBIs for the Trojans. Moten helped herself at the plate, with a 3-for-4 performance with a double. Senese was 2-for-2 with 2 RBIs. Aubrey Gregg had a double.

Payton Crisman took the loss for Prattville, giving up 6 earned runs on 8 hits with a strikeout and 4 walks.

Freshman Hicks got the decision in the circle in the 3-1 win over Tuscaloosa County on Saturday. She gave up a run on 4 hits with 6 strikeouts and 3 walks. Moten got a save, striking out 3 in 1 inning.

Johnson led off the game with a line drive single to center field, followed by a first-pitch blast to left by Moten to score 2 runs. Singles by Senese, Newport and Gregg and a hit-by-pitch to Harris brought in the final run in the fourth.

On Friday, Moten struck out 11 in 4 innings in an 8-0 win over Florence. Moten allowed 1 hit in the win. Hicks struck out 3 in 2 innings of relief in the shutout.

Johnson was 2-for-3 with a double, Newport went 2-for-4 with a double and 2 RBIs and Harris had a 3-run home run in the third inning.

Gulf Shores 17, Southeastern 0

Class 6A No. 5 Gulf Shores won three straight after dropping its first game in the Oxford Spring Sting Round Robin over the weekend. The Dolphins are 20-12 on the season.

Madi Nelson threw a 4-inning no-hitter in the run-rule rout of Southeastern on Saturday. She struck out 1 and gave up a walk. Nelson went 3-for-3 with a double and 2 RBIs.

KK Jacks went 2-for-2 with 2 RBIs, Maddie Beshears was 3-for-4 with an RBI, Rhyleah Gleber was 2-for-3 with an RBI, Lila Kaiser was 2-for-4 with 2 RBIs, Anna Murray was 2-for-3 with a run batted in and Nevaeh James had 3 RBIs.

Also on Saturday, Gulf Shores beat sixth-ranked Class 4A Plainview 4-3 in 9 innings as Nelson slapped a walk-off double to left field to drive in Murray with the game-winning run. Nelson was 3-for-4 on the day.

Anayia McCutchen went 3-for-4 with an RBI and Anna Leigh Price was 1-for-2 with an RBI. She also struck out 12, allowing 2 runs – 1 earned – on 4 hits with 2 walks in 9 innings.

On Friday, Gulf Shores beat 4A No. 7 White Plains 6-2 with Price giving up 2 unearned runs on 5 hits with 7 strikeouts and a walk over 7 innings.

McCutchen tripled and had an RBI, Murray was 2-for-3, Beshears was 1-for-2 with 2 RBIs and Jacks was 1-for-2 with an RBI.

St. Clair County beat the Dolphins 15-10 in a slugfest to open the round robin, collecting 11 hits to 10 for Gulf Shores.

Aniyah Dean went 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles and 6 RBIs for the Saints. Jayla Bass was 1-for-2 with 2 RBIs and 3 runs scored.

Starter Maggie Nabors got the win, allowing 9 earned runs on 10 hits with a strikeout and 5 walks.

Jacks went 2-for-3 with a triple and a double and 2 RBIs for Gulf Shores. James went 2-for-2 with a double and 2 RBIs. Cam Nowlin was 2-for-3 with an RBI and Kaiser drove in 2 runs. Price was 2-for-4 and took the loss in relief of starter Nelson. Price gave up 10 earned runs on 8 hits with a strikeout and 4 walks over 4 innings. Nelson allowed 5 earned runs on 3 hits.

Gulf Shores will host Robertsdale on Monday for Senior Night and travel to Area 1 foe Satsuma on Thursday.

Satsuma 14, Hackleburg 9

The Gators wrapped up a 4-0 weekend in the Oxford Spring Sting Round Robin with the big win over Hackleburg, scoring in 5 of the 7 innings – multiple runs in 4 of those 5. Satsuma burst on top with 5 runs in the top of the first, 3 in the second, 2 in the third, a run in the sixth and 3 more in the seventh. The Gators pounded out 20 hits to 11 for Hackleburg.

Presley Willis went 5-for-5 with an RBI. Anna Bonds was 3-for-5 with 3 runs and an RBI, Madison Sawyer was 3-for-5 with 2 doubles and 3 RBIs, Belle Sheffield was 2-for-5 with 3 runs and 3 RBIs and Lily Cunningham was 2-for-5 with 2 RBIs.

Sheffield got the win in relief of Bonds, allowing 3 runs – 1 earned – on 6 hits with a strikeout. Bonds allowed 6 runs – 4 earned – on 5 hits with a strikeout in 2 innings.

Brooklyn Butler, Erin Butler, Braylynn Pope and Carson Browning had doubles in the loss. Saylor Cooper was 3-for-4 with 2 RBIs and 3 runs. Browning was 2-for-4 and Ellie Nichols was 2-for-3 with an RBI.

Pope took the loss in relief of Laine Steward, allowing 6 runs – 5 earned – on 11 hits with a strikeout. Steward gave up 8 runs – 5 earned – on 9 hits with a walk.

In a 3-2 win over St. Clair County, Sheffield got a complete-game win, striking out 5 and allowing 2 runs on 3 hits over 7 innings. She also helped herself at the plate with a double and a run scored on an RBI single by Cunningham.

Willis drove in a pair of runs to put the Gators up 3-1 in the fifth, scoring Brittaney Jones and Kinsley Byrd.

Jayla Bass was 1-for-3 for St. Clair County with a double. Carmen Garner had a hit and 2 RBIs and Haley Simmons had a single.

Oaklie Rewis took the loss, allowing 3 earned runs on 7 hits with 2 walks in 7 innings.

Satsuma also beat Plainview 4-3 when Sheffield drove in Bonds on a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the seventh inning on Friday. Bonds had a triple in the fourth inning to drive in Merrie Tucker and Jones.

Abby Williams had 2 hits and scored 2 runs for Plainview. Bri Sims drove in the Bears’ runs.

Sheffield got the win, allowing 3 runs on 5 hits with 3 strikeouts over 7 innings.

In a 13-0 win over Sylvania on Friday, leadoff hitter Jones was 3-for-3 – all singles – and scored 3 times. Bonds and Byrd both had RBI doubles in the win.

Bonds struck out 8 in 5 innings, giving up 2 hits.

Satsuma (17-10-2) plays at Orange Beach on Tuesday and hosts Gulf Shores on Thursday.

– John Vella

STATEWIDE

Prattville Christian 12, Pike Road 4

The Panthers completed the home FCA Tournament with a 3-1 mark, beating Pike Road to wrap up play on Saturday. Prattville Christian opened the event on Friday with a 5-2 win over Apollo of Owensboro, Ky. PCA beat Lee-Scott Academy 6-2 in its first game on Saturday, then lost 7-1 to Tuscaloosa County.

Ninth-ranked Class 4A PCA is 21-5 on the season.

Alivia Messick was the winning pitcher against Pike Road and Lee-Scott while Laura Beth NeSmith was the winner vs. Apollo and the loser against 7A Tuscaloosa County.

Chloe Hollon was Prattville Christian’s top hitter for the weekend, going 7-for-10 with 4 RBIs. Peyton Thrash finished 5-for-11 with 3 RBIs and Caralee James was 5-for-12 with an RBI.

PCA will host Area 5 foe Montgomery Catholic on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

Brantley 10, Trinity 6

Class 1A No. 5 Brantley won three straight after falling 8-0 to Saint James in the Alex Wilcox Memorial Softball Tournament at Montgomery’s Lagoon Park on Saturday. The Bulldogs finished the event with an 11-0 win over Russell County, 12-3 over LAMP and 10-6 over Trinity.

Wilcox was the former Brantley star and Mississippi State University freshman who died of ovarian cancer on June 25, 2018. Through her battle to continue to play while undergoing treatment Wilcox inspired Southeastern Conference teams – and others, such as South Alabama – and high school programs to salute her legacy by wearing teal uniforms or playing tournaments in her honor.

Alex Grimes had 30 strikeouts for Brantley in the tournament. She also had a pair of doubles and 2 singles for the tourney. CoCo Stamps had a triple among her 5 hits. Collin Hawthorne had 5 hits and Markey Kilcrease had 4.

Brantley is 14-7 on the season.

SOCCER

STATEWIDE

Montgomery Academy 12, JAG 0

The Eagles improved to 9-2 on the season and 4-0 in Class 7A, Area 3 play with the home rout of JAG on Friday.

Sophia Cho poured in 4 goals for Montgomery Academy and three athletes – Mary Elizabeth Cole, Halle Rogers and Kerstin Daniels – had 2 goals apiece. Caroline Waller and Arden Horne also had goals in the win.

Montgomery Academy travels to Class 6A Pike Road on Monday for a 5:30 p.m. match.

BOYS

BASEBALL

HUNTSVILLE/TENNESSEE VALLEY

Grissom 9, Bob Jones 0

The Tigers blanked second-ranked Bob Jones on Saturday in Madison, pushing the game out of reach with a 7-run third inning. Grissom scored a pair of runs in the top of the first and got a home run and a double from senior left fielder Joshua Burrell.

The winners also got a double from senior center fielder Zach Shipp and finished with 13 hits on the day.

Burrell was 3-for-4 with 3 RBIs and 2 runs scored and Grayson Stroble went 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run. Leadoff hitter Charlie Cassingham was 2-for-4 with a pair of runs scored. Dalton Dardin, Garrett Blacklock and Griffin Grigsby also drove in a run apiece.

Carter Edwards threw the complete-game shutout, allowing 4 hits with 6 strikeouts and 3 walks.

Robert Chatmon went 2-for-2 with a double for the Patriots. Dill Adkins went 1-for-2 and Nicholas Koukos was 1-for-1.

Cam Martin took the loss, allowing 8 earned runs on 8 hits with 2 strikeouts in 2 innings. Joshua Wilhide gave up an earned run on 5 hits with 5 strikeouts and 3 walks in relief.

Grissom (17-9) also beat James Clemens 2-1 at home on Tuesday, scoring after a leadoff walk, a wild pitch, a balk, another walk, a sac fly and a single by Blacklock.

Bob Jones 6, Buckhorn 5

The second-ranked Patriots ran their record to 22-8 on the year as they held off Buckhorn at home on Saturday. Bob Jones scored 2 runs in the second inning and the Bucks answered with 2 runs in the top of the third. Buckhorn scored a run in the fifth before Bob Jones pushed across 4 runs in the bottom of the inning. The visitors added single runs in the sixth and seventh for the final margin.

Myles Hammonds, Tanner Hermesch and Dill Adkins all had a double for Bob Jones, which finished with 10 hits to 4 for Buckhorn. Hammonds was 1-for-3 with 2 RBIs and Adkins was 2-for-3 with an RBI. Mason Rinehart was 2-for-3 with 2 runs scored and Nicholas Koukos was 2-for-3 with a run.

Starter Jackson Shaw earned the win, allowing 4 runs – 2 earned – on 3 hits with 10 strikeouts and a walk in 5.1 innings. Adkins struck out 3 and gave up an earned run on a hit with a walk in 1.1 innings and Reece Brazeal got the final out with a strikeout.

Garrett Ivey took the loss in relief of starter Parker Turley for Buckhorn. Ivey gave up 4 earned runs on 4 hits with 3 strikeouts in 2 innings. Turley pitched the first 2 innings, giving up 2 runs – 1 earned – on 3 hits with 3 strikeouts. Peyton Joiner gave up 3 hits in 2 innings to close out the game.

Braden Abernathy had a 2-run home run for the Bucks, Joshua Henson went 1-for-2 with an RBI and Turley was 1-for-3 with 2 runs scored.

Hartselle 2, Auburn 1

Top-ranked Class 6A Hartselle took advantage of Auburn’s wildness on the mound to knock off the 7A Tigers in almost literal walk-off fashion on Friday in Hoover at the Buccaneer Classic.

With the game knotted at 1 in the bottom of the seventh inning, starter Ezra Stanton walked leadoff batter Christopher Miles. Reliever John Upton got Ty Marsh to fly out before walking Cruise Baker and Asher Doepel to load the bases.

Michael Cochran struck out Braden Weathers before Auburn’s fourth pitcher Ryan Farr’s delivered a wild pitch on his first throw that allowed Miles to score the game-winning run.

Stanton gave up 2 earned runs on 3 hits with 4 strikeouts and 7 walks over 6 innings. Upton walked a pair of batters for the Tigers.

Doepel got the complete-game win, striking out 9 Auburn batters with no walks. He gave up an unearned run in the sixth inning and allowed 2 hits.

Cain Falciana had a triple for Hartselle while Doepel was 2-for-2 with a run scored and Easton Nelms had an RBI.

Wilson Foster tripled for Auburn and Will Whatley picked up the only other hit in the loss.

Westminster Christian 9, Decatur Heritage 8

The Wildcats got a walk-off missed third strike win over Decatur Heritage at home on Saturday.

Westminster Christian led 8-3 after five innings before the Eagles pushed across 3 runs in the sixth and 2 in the top of the seventh to tie the score with Ian Wickwire delivering a sacrifice fly to center field to bring in Ford Sparkman from third.

In the decisive bottom half of the seventh, Wyatt Knect drew a walk and RJ Bendolph came in as a pinch-runner. Bendolph stole second and went to third on an errant throw from the catcher. Jack Shafer struck out swinging on a 1-2 pitch, but the ball got away from DHCA’s catcher and Bendolph raced home with the game-winner.

The Wildcats overcame 6 errors that led to 5 Decatur Heritage runs in the game that saw both teams total 6 hits on the day.

Nolan Gooden led Westminster Christian with a grand slam home run in the first inning and a solo shot in the fifth to go 2-for-4 on the day with 5 RBIs. Amos Baldwin scored twice drawing 3 walks with a single.

Westminster Christian 4-13 and 2-1 in Class 4A, Area 15 will host area foe Randolph on Tuesday. Class 2A Decatur Heritage (13-3, 3-0) will host Tanner for a Class 2A, Area 16 double-header against Tanner on Monday.

– Jimmy Lay

James Clemens 5, South Elgin (Ill.) 2

The Jets beat South Elgin, Ill., in their final game of the Warrior Spring Classic at Riverdale High School in Murfreesboro, Tenn., on Friday. James Clemens (17-8) also beat Riverdale 12-6 and lost 5-3 to South Hills of West Covina, Calif.

In the win over South Elgin, the Jets jumped to a 4-1 lead after 5 innings and both teams added a run in the seventh for the final. The Storm out-hit James Clemens 7-6 in the loss and neither team had an error.

Hudson Smith went 2-for-3 with a double and 3 RBIs. Devier Ramos was 2-for-3 and Matthew Drinkwater and Brooks Rhodes had an RBI each.

Zac Mann picked up the win in relief of starter Braden Powless. Mann struck out 3 and allowed a hit in an inning pitched. Powless did not allow a run in 3 innings with a strikeout and a walk. Jesse Isensee worked the final 3 innings, allowing 2 runs – 1 earned – on 3 hits with 5 strikeouts and 4 walks.

Against Riverdale, James Clemens led 5-0 after 2 innings, 5-2 after 3 and 10-3 after four. The Jets scored 2 more in the top of the seventh while Riverdale scored 3 in the bottom.

Ian Berry went 2-for-3 with a home run, an RBI and 2 runs scored in the win. Drinkwater, Isensee and Smith also had a double apiece for James Clemens. Drinkwater was 2-for-5 with 3 RBIs and 2 runs, Smith was 3-for-4 with 2 RBIs and Isensee went 1-for-4 with a run batted in. Trip Morgan and Rhodes had a pair of RBIs each for the Jets.

Drinkwater got the win, allowing 3 runs – 2 earned – on 4 hits with 2 strikeouts and a walk. Scotty Sieja allowed 3 unearned runs on 3 hits – including a home run – with 3 strikeouts over 3 innings.

In the loss to South Hills, the Huskies led 3-0 after 2 innings and 4-0 after 3. James Clemens cut it to 4-2 in the top of the fifth, but South Hills answered with another run in the bottom of the inning. The Jets added another run in the top of the seventh.

The winners out-hit James Clemens 8-7 and both teams had an error.

Tyler Lewis took the loss in relief of starter Will Votroubek. The junior lefty allowed 4 runs – 3 earned – on 7 hits with a strikeout and a walk in 3 innings. Votroubek worked a scoreless first inning. Cody Hodges gave up an earned run on 1 hit in 2 innings.

Drinkwater was 2-for-4 with a double and 2 RBIs. Smith went 1-for-1 for the Jets’ only other hit.

Athens Bible 8, Clements 3

Fifth-ranked Class 1A Athens Bible picked up the home win on Saturday with Luke Murrell striking out 11, allowing no runs on 3 hits in 5 innings. Murrell, who gave up 3 walks, also helped himself at the plate with 3 singles and 2 runs scored.

Chandler James had a pair of doubles, 2 RBIs and 2 runs for the Trojans (12-4). Ethan Barnes had a pair of singles and Jake Banta had 2 hits with an RBI. Sam Hall had a double and 2 RBIs and Gavin Butler had a hit and an RBI.

Grayson Borden had a double for the Colts. Brady Turner, Cannon Lovell and Grayson Craig also had hits.

Craig took the loss, allowing 6 runs – 3 earned – on 6 hits with 3 strikeouts and a walk over 2 innings. Turner gave up 2 earned runs on 6 hits with 5 strikeouts and 3 walks.

Athens Bible plays at Mae Jemison on Tuesday.

BIRMINGHAM

Hueytown 11, Stanhope Elmore 6

The Gophers rallied from a 2-1 deficit in the bottom of the third inning to roll over Stanhope Elmore in the Buccaneer Classic in Hoover on Friday – the first of two wins on the day. Hueytown also beat St. Edward of Lakewood, Ohio, 5-3.

In the win over Stanhope Elmore, Hueytown got a run in the bottom of the second before the Mustangs pushed across a pair of runs in the top of the third. The Golden Gophers answered with 4 runs in the third and 4 more in the fourth to get the lead for good. Stanhope scored 3 in the sixth, but Hueytown added 2 more in the bottom of the inning for an 11-5 edge.

Both teams had trouble in the field with the winners committing 5 errors and Stanhope Elmore registering 4. Hueytown had 9 hits to 6 for the Mustangs.

Clean-up hitter Jarret Kauhn went 3-for-4 with an RBI in the win. Hunter Syx was 2-for-4 with a double and 4 RBIs. Baker Davis doubled in 2 at-bats with an RBI and 3 runs scored. Sam Vaughan, Jose Irreaza and Slade Wilson all drove in a run apiece.

Starter Braden McCrary earned the win, allowing 2 unearned runs on 2 hits with 7 strikeouts and a walk over 5 innings. Irreaza gave up 3 runs – 2 earned – on no hits with 2 walks before Wilson relieved him for the final 2 innings. Wilson allowed an unearned run on 4 hits with a strikeout.

Edwin Westbrook took the loss for Stanhope Elmore, giving up 5 earned runs on 5 hits with 2 strikeouts and 2 walks in 2 innings. Nicholas Kent gave up 3 runs – 1 earned – on 2 hits with a walk in 1.2 innings and Wil Stephens gave up 3 runs – 1 earned – on 2 hits with 3 strikeouts in 2.1 innings.

Leadoff batter Jackson Stallworth tripled in 4 at-bats and drove in 3 runs on the day. Romney Henry went 1-for-4 with 2 RBIs.

In the 5-3 win over St. Edward, Vaughan allowed 3 runs – 1 earned – on 4 hits with 7 strikeouts and 2 walks over 6.1 innings. Vaughan helped his cause at the plate, going 1-for-1 with a double and an RBI. Wilson recorded the final 2 out of the game.

Kauhn had a pair of hits, including what proved to be the game-winner, and 2 RBIs. Syx and Irreaza also drove in a run each.

Hueytown scored a run in the second before St. Edward got 2 in the third and another in the top of the fourth. The Gophers answered with 2 in the fourth and 2 more in the fifth. Hueytown had 7 hits and 3 errors. The Eagles had 4 hits with an error.

Homewood 9, Sardis 0

The Patriots split a pair of games on Saturday at Choccolocco Park in Oxford, blanking Sardis and falling 3-2 to Lawrence County.

Homewood starter Jack Ross gave up 2 hits over 5 innings in the win over Sardis, striking out 4 with no walks. Sophomore Jack Chapleau, in his first varsity appearance, pitched the final 2 scoreless innings, holding the Lions to no hits with 4 strikeouts.

Drew Susce went 2-for-3 with 3 RBIs and a double in the win. Jack Bland was 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored and Ross had a triple and an RBI.

Garrett Holland and Brian Chapman got hits for Sardis. Brandon Hammonds took the loss, allowing 4 earned runs on 4 hits with a strikeout and 2 walks in 1.2 innings.

In the loss to Lawrence County, the Patriots gave up 3 hits and allowed 1 earned run. The Red Devils scored a pair of runs in the bottom of the first inning when Ty Henderson drove in Parker Frost and Tripper Engle. Lawrence County got what proved to be the winning run in the third when Wyatt Knight reached on a 2-out error that brought Engle home.

Homewood made a run in the top of the sixth when Ben Roberts doubled off the top of the right-field wall and scored on a single by Thomas Davis. A balk put Davis at second base and after a fly ball second out, Levi Nickoli singled him home.

Starter Caden Norwood retired the side in the seventh to secure the win. Norwood gave up 2 earned runs on 4 hits with 4 strikeouts and no walks.

Parker Frost led the winners at the plate, going 2-for-3. Kade Taylor got Lawrence County’s only other hit.

Vestavia Hills 11, Pelham 6

The fifth-ranked Class 7A Rebels jumped out front early in the win over 6A Pelham in the Buccaneer Classic on Friday – Vestavia Hills’ second win of the day in Hoover. The Rebels beat Farraut of Knoxville 10-0 in a 5-inning runaway earlier in the day.

James Lucas went 2-for-3 with a triple and a double with 3 runs scored in the win over Pelham. The first baseman drove in a run and scored 3 times. Reid Lazenby also tripled and drove in a run. John David Adkins and Major Weaver both doubled, with Adkins going 2-for-3 with 2 RBIs. Zac Cunningham went 1-for-3 with an RBI and Stephen Snowden was 1-for-4 with an RBI.

Starter Daniel Covington – the first of four Vestavia pitchers – got the win, allowing 4 earned runs on 3 hits with 3 walks.

Andrew Petrock had a solo home run, a double and 2 RBIs in 3 at-bats for the Panthers. Ryan Hurd, Samuel Tolbert and Ethan Drawhorn also had hits in the loss.

Starter Blake Woodall was saddled with the loss, allowing 5 earned runs on 4 hits with 2 strikeouts and 4 walks. JP Anderson gave up 6 runs – 5 earned – on 6 hits with 2 strikeouts and a walk in relief.

In the rout of Farragut, the Rebels struck for 8 runs in the opening inning on the way to the run-rule win. Carson Mann tripled and drove in 3 runs from his No. 9 batting spot for Vestavia. He also scored a run.

Cross Tonsmeire went 3-for-3 with a double and he scored 3 runs and collected an RBI. Gavin Smith was 2-for-3 with a double and 2 RBIs.

Starter Capp Trimm earned the win, allowing a hit with a strikeout and 3 walks in 3 innings. Smith and Charlie Taaffe pitched an inning apiece, both allowing a hit with Taaffe getting a strikeout.

MOBILE/COASTAL ALABAMA

Fairhope 8, Mary G. Montgomery 0

The sixth-ranked Class 7A Pirates blanked Mary G. Montgomery on the road with a pair of pitchers combining to strike out 13 Vikings. Will Sparks fanned 9 for Fairhope in 5 innings and Harrison Cook got 4 strikeouts in the final 2 innings.

Fairhope (17-7) won its fourth straight and notched its sixth shutout of the season. The Pirates held MGM to 3 hits on the day.

Blake Westry drove in 3 run to pace the Pirates, including a 2-run triple that brought in Bryon Martin and Sparks in the third that put Fairhope on the scoreboard. The senior singled in Rock Gearhart in the fifth to push the lead to 5-0 and he scored two batters later on a Miles Drew Johnson double.

Anderson Murray and DJ Broughton each had a double at the plate for MGM, as the Vikings dropped their third straight and were shut out for the second time of the year. Cody Strickhausen took the loss, allowing 6 runs in 4 innings.

Mary Montgomery (7-11) will host Davidson on Thursday and travels to Davidson for a double-header on Friday in a Class 7A, Area 1 series. Fairhope plays Robertsdale in an Area 2 series at home on Thursday and on the road for a double-header on Friday.

Satsuma 6-2, Orange Beach 5-9

The Gators and Makos split a Friday Class 4A, Area 1 double-header at Orange Beach, giving the home team a 2-1 series win after it took an 11-1 win at Satsuma on Thursday.

Braxton Byrd collected had 3 hits from the leadoff spot for Satsuma in Game 1, driving in a pair of runs. The Gators rallied for 2 runs in the top of the seventh to take the lead, scoring both runs on bases loaded walks.

Hunter Sullivan pitched the final inning to secure the victory, striking out 2 of the 3 batters he faced. Starter Darius Kapua pitched 6 innings, allowing 4 runs on 8 hits.

Joel Douglas Chandler, Brayden Hood and Matthew Hoover had 2 hits each for Orange Beach. Hoover drove in a pair of runs and had a single in the seventh inning to bring the Makos within a run.

In Game 2, Ward Hickman drove in 4 runs to lead the eighth-ranked Makos – including an inside-the-park home run in the first inning. He also scored the final run in the bottom of the fifth on a Zane Rogers single. Orange Beach scored 7 runs in the fifth.

Rogers and Brayden Hood had 3 hits apiece for the Makos and both had 2 RBIs.

Hoover picked the victory, pitching striking out 7 in 5 innings, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits.

Brady Coleman drove in both runs for the Gators.

Satsuma (12-8) plays at Millry on Tuesday and at St. Michael in an Area 1 series on Thursday and Friday. Orange Beach (14-8) hosts Bayside Academy on Thursday and travels to meet the Admirals for a double-header on Friday in an area series.

Faith Academy 9-8, Mobile Christian 6-0

The fifth-ranked Rams completed a three-game Class 5A, Area 2 series sweep with the wins in a double-header on Friday. Faith Academy had beaten Mobile Christian 9-5 on Thursday.

In Game 1, Braydon Wright blasted a 3-run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning to break a 6-6 tie as Faith rallied for 4 runs. Eli Quinley tied the game, with a two-out single to score Carlos Ortiz, before Wright followed with the big swing to cap off a 4-for-4 day at the plate. Wright also had a double in the win.

Quinley got the Rams on the board with a solo homer in the bottom of the second. Quinley joined Brody Lambert, Riley Wilemon and Brodie Wilson with multiple hits on the day.

Wyatt Pippen picked up the victory in relief for the Rams, pitching 2 innings of scoreless ball, allowing a 2-out double by Mobile Christian’s Mason Arceneaux in the seventh inning.

The Leopards got a solo home run by Noah Blackburn and Brady Keller had a pair of doubles and drove in 2 runs. Maddox McKinion took the loss for the Leopards, allowing 9 runs and all 14 hits in 5 innings.

In Game 2, Wright smacked a 3-run homer – continuing to feast on Mobile Christian pitching for his third straight game with a home run. Wright’s blast put the Rams up 5-0 in the fourth inning.

The Rams also scored 3 runs off 7 Leopards errors. Brody Lambert had 2 hits and scored 2 runs for Faith Academy.

Faith starter Brodie Wilson struck out 8 in 5 innings to get the win. Christian Freeman got the final six outs for the Rams, striking out 4 batters to secure the shutout.

Faith Academy (16-3) has won nine in a row and will host St. Paul’s for the first game of an Area 2 series on Thursday and will travel for the closing double-header on Friday. Mobile Christian (6-17) will

Mobile Christian (6-17) will play an Area 2 double-header at home against Vigor on Monday and will travel to area foe Citronelle on Thursday and host the Wildcats for a double-header on Friday.

– John Vella

STATEWIDE

Brantley 15, McKenzie 8

Cooper Layton helped himself at the plate as he picked up the big win on the mound for the Bulldogs on Saturday at McKenzie. The senior had 4 hits, including a home run and a double, drove in 5 runs and scored 4 times for Brantley. He pitched 5 innings and struck out 5.

Harper Kilcrease had 3 hits with 3 RBIs and Jayden Parks had a pair of hits and scored 3 runs.

Saint James 13-11, Montgomery Academy 1-12

The Eagles and Trojans split a pair of Class 3A, Area 5 games on Friday, giving Saint James the series victory after a 10-5 win at home on Thursday.

In Game 1 at Montgomery Academy on Friday, Saint James scored 6 runs in the top of the sixth inning to run-rule the Eagles. The Trojans pounded out 12 hits to 5 for Montgomery Academy and the Eagles committed 3 errors.

Charles Cutler went 2-for-3 with a home run and a double with 4 RBIs in the win. Braylen Corley doubled and scored twice, Mason Craig (1-for-3) and Tabor Offord (2-for-3 with an RBI) also had doubles for Saint James. Jimmy Dickens, Dawson Knowles and Douglas Aman also drove in a run each.

Offord struck out 12 on the way to the complete-game win, giving up an earned run on 5 hits with 4 walks.

MA starter Oscar Fiore gave up 2 earned runs on 3 hits with 2 strikeouts in 2 innings. Vincent Desautels worked 3.1 innings in relief, allowing 7 runs – 2 earned – on 5 hits with 2 strikeouts to take the loss. Jarrett Friendly gave up 3 earned runs on 2 hits in the final two-thirds of an inning.

Desautels, Fiore, William Marks and Finley Haigler had a hit apiece for Montgomery Academy. Reid McBridge had an RBI in the loss.

Montgomery Academy’s lone win in the series closed out the double-header and came walk off fashion in 12 innings.

Desautels delivered the game-winning single – his fourth RBI of the day. The freshman finished with 3 hits in the win. Hays Marks, William Marks, Haigler, Andrew Hosein and Fiore had hits for Montgomery Academy with Haigler also driving in a run. Nathan Applegate also logged an RBI. The winners had 14 hits and 1 error.

Hosein pitched 4.1 innings, allowing 7 runs – 6 earned – on 8 hits with a strikeout. Chapman Baker worked 3.2 innings in relief, surrendering 4 earned runs on 7 hits with 3 strikeouts. Eighth grader Finley Haigler shut out the Trojans over the final 4 innings, allowing 3 hits with a strikeout.

Saint James rolled up 19 hits, but committed 5 errors in the loss.

Chase Perry went 3-for-6 with a home run and drove in 3 runs for the Trojans. Craig went 5-for-7 with a triple and a double with 3 RBIs. Tabor Offord was 4-for-8 with 3 doubles, 3 runs scored and an RBI. Benton Offord, Corley, and Luke Catchings all had a pair of hits with Catchings driving in a run.

Will Blackwell, Saint James’ fifth pitcher in the game, took the loss, allowing an earned run on 3 hits with 5 strikeouts and 2 walks over the final 3 innings. Starter Dickens allowed 5 runs – 1 earned – on 4 hits with a strikeout and a walk in an inning’s work. Conner Johnston gave up 3 unearned runs on 2 his with a strikeout and 2 walks. William Byrd gave up an earned run on 2 hits in 2 innings and Catchings allowed 2 runs – 1 earned – on 3 hits with 4 strikeouts and 2 walks in 3.1 innings.

Montgomery Academy (11-5) will play at Jemison on Monday at 5 p.m. while Saint James will visit Percy Julian for a 5 o’clock contest.

Some information in this report is from GameChanger Media.

Editor’s Note: To report highlights to AL.com, please email [email protected] following your games. Reports must come from coaches or team statisticians and no later than 10:30 a.m. on Monday and Friday.

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General

Thunderstorms with damaging winds in Geneva and Houston counties Monday, gusts to hit 60 mph

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning at 11:58 a.m. on Monday in effect until 1 p.m. for Geneva and Houston counties.

Residents should prepare for wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

“At 11:58 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Geneva to 21 miles south of Destin, moving east at 50 mph,” says the weather service. “Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Oakwood Hills, Hiland Park, Eglin Air Force Base, Whitehead Crossroads, Bradford, Cerrogordo, Gulf Resort Beach, Black, Gritney, West Panama City, Rock Hill, Glendale, Millers Ferry, Noma, Pleasant Ridge, Knox Hill, Izagora, New Harmony, Piney Grove and Four Mile Village.

According to the weather service, “Remain alert for a possible tornado! Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure. For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.”

Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

  • When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
  • Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
  • Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

  • Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
  • Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait for the all-clear:

  • After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
  • Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

  • Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
  • Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
  • If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
  • Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
  • Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive with care:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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Update: Tornado warning for Dale County

At 12:01 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service released an updated tornado warning in effect until 12:15 p.m. for Dale County.

“At noon, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Level Plains, or near Daleville, moving east at 40 mph,” states the weather service. “Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.”

Prepare for the tornado to impact the following locations:

  • Newton, Daleville, Ozark, and Fort Novosel around 12:05 p.m.
  • Pinckard around 12:10 p.m.

Other locations impacted by this tornadic thunderstorm include Ewell, Hunt Field, Waterford, Dean Church Road, Knox Field, Hanchey Field, Bagwells Crossroads, Lowe Army Heliport, Klondyke Hill, and Kelly.

The weather service adds, “Take cover now! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.”

Tornado watches and warnings: What you need to know

When it comes to tornadoes, understanding the difference between a Tornado watch and a Tornado warning can be a matter of life and death. Let’s break it down:

Tornado watch: Be prepared!

  • A Tornado watch is your advance warning that conditions are ripe for tornado formation.
  • It’s your signal to review your emergency plans, ensure your supplies are in order, and identify your safe room.
  • While it doesn’t mean a tornado is imminent, it’s a heads-up that you should be ready to act quickly if a Tornado warning is issued or if you suspect a tornado is approaching.
  • Watches come from the Storm Prediction Center and often cover a large area, potentially spanning multiple counties or even states.

Tornado warning: Take action!

  • A Tornado warning signifies that a tornado has been spotted or detected by weather radar.
  • This is the real deal – there’s an immediate danger to life and property.
  • Your response should be quick: seek shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows.
  • If you’re in a mobile home, a vehicle, or caught outdoors, find the nearest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
  • Warnings are issued by your local forecast office and pinpoint a much smaller area, typically the size of a city or a small county, where a tornado has been identified, either by radar or by trained spotters and law enforcement.

Knowing the difference between these two alerts is essential in staying safe during tornado season. Stay informed, have a plan, and act promptly when danger approaches.

Prepare for a tornado

Stay weather-ready:

Check the forecast regularly to see if you’re at risk for tornadoes. Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about tornado watches and warnings.

Sign up for alerts:

Know how your community sends warnings. Some communities have outdoor sirens. Others depend on media and smartphones to alert residents of severe storms capable of producing tornadoes.

Establish a communication plan:

Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information. If you live in a mobile home or home without a basement, identify a nearby safe building you can get to quickly, such as a church or family member.

Choose a secure shelter:

Pick a safe room in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.

Establish a communication plan:

Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill regularly so everyone knows what to do if a tornado is approaching. Make sure all members of your family know to go there when tornado warnings are issued. Don’t forget pets if time allows.

Secure your home:

Consider reinforcing your safe room for added protection. You can find plans for fortifying an interior room on the Federal Emergency Management Agency website.

Extend a helping hand:

Encourage your loved ones to prepare for the possibility of tornadoes. Take CPR training so you can help if someone is hurt.

Tornado safety: What to do when the twister hits

When a tornado strikes, taking swift action is crucial to ensuring your safety and minimizing potential harm. Follow these guidelines from the weather service:

Stay informed:

Remain vigilant and stay updated by listening to local news broadcasts or a NOAA Weather Radio for tornado watches and warnings.

At home:

If you find yourself under a tornado warning while at home, head to your basement, a designated safe room, or an interior space away from windows. Ensure your pets are safe if time permits.

At work or school:

If you are at your workplace or school, adhere to tornado drill procedures. Move promptly and calmly to your designated tornado shelter, avoiding large open areas like cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums, and steer clear of windows.

Outdoors:

If you’re outdoors and a tornado is approaching, seek immediate shelter inside a sturdy building. Sheds, storage facilities, mobile homes, and tents are not safe. If there’s time, make your way to a secure structure.

In a vehicle:

It is not safe to be in a vehicle during a tornado. The recommended action is to drive to the nearest shelter. If reaching a safe shelter is not possible, either crouch down in your car and cover your head, or leave your vehicle and seek refuge in a low-lying area like a ditch or ravine.

Remember, acting swiftly and following safety protocols are essential for your well-being when a tornado is imminent.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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Former Alabama basketball star from Final Four team will re-enter transfer portal

After he left Alabama basketball following the Crimson Tide’s Final Four campaign, Rylan Griffen is heading back to the transfer portal. Griffen shared the news to his social media, after it was reported initially by ESPN’s Jeff Borzello.

Griffen spent last season at Kansas, which fell in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against Arkansas. He finished the year averaging 6.3 points per game, along with 2.1 rebounds.

Statistically, Griffen regressed from his final season at UA, where he put up 11.2 points and 3.4 points per game. His shooting percentage also took a dip, from 45.4% from the field and 39.2% from three, to 37.2% overall, 33.6% from deep.

Griffen was a key element to the 2023-24 Crimson Tide’s Final Four run. He started 33 games for Alabama that year, and averaged 12.4 points throughout the NCAA Tournament, including 19 in an upset Sweet 16 win over North Carolina.

“Obviously I was leaving a good team, but I just think I had more in store,” Griffen said of his transfer to Kansas before the season, according to Rivals. “I wanted to come do it for a different team and play for a different team now.”

The 6-foot-6, 190-pound guard joined the Crimson Tide as a freshman for the 2022-23 season. He scored 5.9 points and grabbed 2.6 rebounds per game his first year, playing all 37 games for Alabama.

He was a four-star recruit out of Richardson High School in Dallas. 247Sports ranked Griffen as the No. 3 shooting guard in his class before his arrival in Tuscaloosa.

Griffen will have one year of eligibility remaining at whichever school he chooses out of the transfer portal.

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General

Weather alert announced for strong thunderstorms in Southeast Alabama Monday midday – gusts as high as 40 mph

A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Monday at 11:04 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 11:45 a.m. for Coffee, Dale, Henry, Geneva and Houston counties.

Be ready for pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 11:03 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from 8 miles southeast of Dozier to near Bagdad. Movement was east at 45 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Eglin Air Force Base, Carl Folsom A/p, Cerrogordo, Black, Gritney, Rock Hill, Pleasant Ridge, Knox Hill, Piney Grove, Four Mile Village, Caney Creek, Miller Crossroads, Earlytown, Spears, Alberton, Skipperville, Weeks, Bethlehem, Bagwells Crossroads and Slocomb.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 5 p.m. for southeastern Alabama and the Panhandle of Florida.”

Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

  • When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
  • Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
  • Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

  • Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
  • These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

  • After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
  • It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

  • Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
  • Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
  • If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
  • Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
  • Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of swollen waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive with care:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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Thunderstorms with golf-ball-sized hail and damaging winds in Lee County Monday – gusts as high as 60 mph

On Monday at 11 a.m. the National Weather Service released a severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 11:30 a.m. for Lee County.

The storms are foreseen to bring wind gusts of up to 60 mph and golf-ball-sized hail (1.75 inches).

“At 10:59 a.m., a severe thunderstorm was located over Bleecker, or 7 miles northwest of Smiths, moving east at 35 mph,” says the weather service. “People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Monterey Heights, Smiths, Beulah, Smiths Station, Bleecker, Griffen Mill, Ladonia and Opelika.

The weather service states, “For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.”

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

  • When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
  • Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
  • Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

  • Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
  • Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait for the all-clear:

  • After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
  • Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

  • Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
  • Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
  • If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
  • Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
  • Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of rapid water flow:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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As ‘American Idol’ hits Hollywood, will we see these Alabama singers?

“American Idol” hits Hollywood Monday night, and the question isn’t whether we’ll see any Alabama singers in the brutal Hollywood Round – it’s how many we’ll see.

Here’s a look at the current crop of Golden Ticket winners:

Crews Wright

Wright, a high-school student from Samson, near Dothan, was featured prominently on March 9, in the first full episode of the season. The “diehard traditional” country singer appeared to make a particularly strong impression on Lionel Richie, who told him, “You’re gonna go places.” On Facebook, Wright confidently said last week that “THIS MONDAY NIGHT at 7pm on ABC you will see me compete in Hollywood on American Idol! Every person in is next level talent but who will make it to the next round?”

Isaiah Moore of Alabama is shown during an “American Idol” audition that will be aired March 9, 2025. (Eric McCandless/Disney)Eric McCandless/Disney

Isaiah Moore

Moore, a worship leader from Oneonta, made his debut in the March 16 episode. Among other things, viewers learned that Wright and his wife actually set aside their honeymoon plans so he could make it to an “Idol” audition. But it paid off with a Golden Ticket, even if the judges did struggle a bit with the pronunciation of “Oneonta.”

Anna McElroy

McElroy is a country singer from Mobile, and her “Idol” experience has been a little weird so far. She was featured in the March 21 episode, but only in a jokey montage that left viewers thinking that was maybe as far as she got. But afterward, McElroy revealed that she had, in fact, gotten her Golden Ticket to Hollywood. Sharp-eyed viewers caught the briefest glimpse of her in the March 28 episode, which was otherwise Alabama-free. Maybe in the March 31 “Idol Arena” episode we’ll actually get to hear her sing.

"American Idol" aired the second episode of its 2024 season on Feb. 25.

Dawson Slade is shown during his audition in the second episode of the 2024 season of “American Idol.” Slade, 17, is from Moulton, Ala. (Disney/Eric McCandless )Disney

Dawson Slade

Slade, a young country singer from Moulton, was featured in early epsodes of “Idol’s” 2024 season: His initial appearance left judges wondering if he was more of a songwriter than a star, but he won them over and made it to Hollywood. That was as far as he got, but he let fans know via Facebook that he’d taken another shot in 2025 and earned his second Golden Ticket. “Unfortunately they’re not able to air everybody’s audition so mine will not be aired,” he posted, promising to update fans if and when he’ll be featured.

Tyler Nichols

Nichols hasn’t yet been featured, but “Idol” producers confirm he auditioned and identify him as coming from Pell City. In a Facebook profile, he describes himself as “born in the foothills of Alabama” and as having “the sound of Hank, Stapleton and a pinch of Dylan.” He recently posted photos of his Golden Ticket, meaning we could see him pop up before the judges any time now.

Janae Patterson

Like Nichols, Patterson hasn’t yet been showcased but has been confirmed by producers. According to the show, she hails from Bessemer. She too has recently posted photos of herself with her Golden Ticket. In a Monday morning update, she posted that “Unfortunately I will not be getting aired but you mayy see a familiar face in the arena … Tune in to see some of my amazing friends … Things are about to get CRAZY!” She also promised to give fans a detailed update Tuesday evening.

Anybody else?

Quite possibly. These six are just the ones who’ve been featured, or who’ve publicly confirmed their involvement and been confirmed by producers. Don’t be too surprised if at least one more Alabama contender pops up during the whirlwind Hollywood episodes. After all, the show featured eight Alabama contenders last year.

“Idol” kicks off its 2025 Hollywood Round with a two-hour “Idol Arena” episode airing at 7 p.m. Central time Monday, March 31, on ABC. Going forward, the show will air at 7 p.m. Sundays and Mondays; at the end of several Hollywood episodes, the Top 24 will travel to Hawaii. Previously aired episodes can be seen on Hulu.

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Pea-sized hail foreseen with thunderstorms to hit Lee County Monday – winds gusting up to 40 mph

The National Weather Service issued a report at 10:56 a.m. on Monday for strong thunderstorms until 11:45 a.m. for Lee County.

Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are probable.

“At 10:55 a.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near Griffen Mill, or near Opelika, moving east at 55 mph,” says the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Smiths, Beulah, Robert G. Pitts Airport, Auburn, Smiths Station, Beans Mill, Loachapoka, Auburn University, Monterey Heights, Beauregard, Waverly, Chewacla State Park, Roxana, Bleecker, Opelika, Marvyn, Griffen Mill, Mount Jefferson, Ladonia and Notasulga.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until noon for southeastern and east central Alabama.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To protect yourself during a thunderstorm, take these recommendations into consideration:

Lightning safety plan:

  • When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
  • Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
  • Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

  • Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
  • These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

  • After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
  • Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

  • Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
  • Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
  • If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
  • Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
  • Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and stay cautious:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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Severe thunderstorm watch active for Southeast Alabama until early Monday evening

On Monday at 10:52 a.m. the National Weather Service released a severe thunderstorm watch in effect until 5 p.m. for Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties.

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To protect yourself during a thunderstorm, take these recommendations into consideration:

Lightning safety plan:

  • When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
  • Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
  • Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

  • Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
  • These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

  • After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
  • It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

  • Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
  • Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
  • If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
  • Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
  • Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and drive with care:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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Stanford hires NFL veteran as interim coach for 2025 season

Stanford has hired former NFL quarterback and coach Frank Reich as its interim head coach for the 2025 season, school officials announced Monday.

The 63-year-old Reich has never coached in college, but was head coach of the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts for six seasons and Carolina Panthers for one. While with the Colts, he coached Andrew Luck, the former Stanford and NFL quarterback who was named the Cardinal’s football general manager in November.

“I could not be more excited for our coaches, staff and players to have Frank as our head football coach for the 2025 season,” Luck said. “I have experienced first-hand the incredible impact Frank has demonstrated as a leader and have full confidence he is the perfect steward for this season of Stanford Football. Frank is a teacher, a winner and a coach of the highest caliber.

“Frank’s values align seamlessly with our vision for this program and I firmly believe in his ability to maximize the on-field potential of our student-athletes while serving as a role model in all aspects of their personal growth.”

Reich steps in after Troy Taylor was fired last week following an internal investigation into the treatment of staff members. Taylor was highly successful on the FCS level at Sacramento State, but went just 6-18 in two seasons at Stanford.

Reich played 14 years in the NFL mostly as a backup quarterback, including stints with the Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, New York Jets and Detroit Lions. He then spent 12 seasons as an NFL assistant before getting his first head-coaching job in Indianapolis in 2018, which happened to be Luck’s final season before he abruptly retired at age 29.

“I am thrilled to be working with Andrew again to help take an important step in establishing his vision for the Stanford Football program,” said Reich. “Andrew is an elite leader and competitor, and those traits, along with his genuine passion for this university, resonated in every way and inspired me to accept this role. The unique responsibility to mentor the best student-athletes in the world, to be the absolute best in what they aspire to do, is an opportunity I will fully embrace.”

Stanford, now a member of the ACC, opens the 2025 season on Aug. 23 at Hawaii.

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