Alabama News

The 2024 Philadelphia Eagles aren’t a carton of milk that has gone sour. Nothing will diminish the sweetness of their victory in Super Bowl LIX on Feb. 9 for the team’s players and coaches.

But those Eagles don’t exist anymore, Philadelphia guard Landon Dickerson said.

“So it’s very simple, right?” Dickerson said on Thursday. “Every team has a one-year expiration. The 2024 Philadelphia Eagles were a great team. That team no longer exists, right? It’s in the history books. There’s guys still here, but that team is no longer together. It’s 2025 Philadelphia Eagles. Right now, we have accomplished nothing. We are zero and zero, and we’re here to work.”

The Eagles opened their training camp on Wednesday, and while 2024 is gone, 2025 retains something that could help Philadelphia in its quest for another NFL championship, Dickerson said.

“So the team changed, right?” Dickerson said. “The timeline, that year’s team’s gone. The people and the culture don’t change. I mean, I know the big thing like New Year’s is like ‘new year, new me’ or whatever it may be. The culture and the mindset of the players and the coaches and the staff here doesn’t change, right? So when these rookies, when these new guys come in, the guys we trade for or acquire, they pretty much have an option to buy into the culture or you’re not going to last around here. And I think that this group coming in is doing a tremendous job of buying into what it is.

“I mean, we’re going to have fun. We’re going to love each other. But there’s going to be some days that it sucks and it’s going to be hard, but, yeah, that’s just part of football.”

One thing definitely gone from the 2024 Eagles is the offensive coordinator. Kellen Moore left this offseason to become the head coach of the New Orleans Saints. Philadelphia promoted passing-game coordinator Kevin Patullo into the vacancy. He follows Shane Steichen, Brian Johnson and Moore as Dickerson’s offensive coordinators as he prepares for his fifth NFL season.

“Kevin’s been here for, I mean, since I’ve been here,” Dickerson said. “So having him come in, I know he’s quote-unquote new, but he’s been here. But it’s also figuring out the composition of this team. I know we have a lot of guys coming back. We lost some guys. But it’s figuring out the identity of this offense, what we’re going to be, what’s working for us and where we can make improvements from where we were in the past.”

That means the Philadelphia offense might turn out to be the Cat in the Hat, Thomas the Tank Engine or Clifford the Big Red Dog.

“Obviously, every coordinator is a little different in what they do,” Dickerson said. “Kevin, obviously I know new position, but he has been here. He’s familiar with these guys; players are familiar with him. And there’s a chemistry and a history there. It’s, and like I said earlier, it’s figuring out what this offense is going to be, what plays and what kind of scheme works best for us. And it may change week to week with who we’re playing. It’s going to change with availability of guys on Sunday. And yeah, really, that’s just the next couple of weeks is figuring out what this offense is going to be and how Kevin wants to call plays and kind of run his.

“Like the best way I can describe it is every offensive coordinator is kind of like a storyteller, like campfires. And everybody’s got kind of a little different story to tell and how they set up. And, you know, they’re kind of like a children’s book, right? You flip the page, a different story. There’s Dr. Seuss and all that stuff, but they all kind of tell a story differently. So that’s where we’re figuring things out, I mean, just by plays and formations and schemes and stuff, right? It’s setting things up. You know, do you want to do this with motions, all kinds of other stuff? I mean, like going from before, like with Shane to Brian Johnson to Kellen, like you see everybody, the offense is similar, but some things change a little bit. You know what I mean? I don’t really know a great way to describe this. Words are not helping me right now, but there you go.”

Dickerson earned Pro Bowl recognition for the third consecutive season in 2024 as Philadelphia’s left guard.

“I love football. I love these guys. I love competing,” Dickerson said. “I’ve said it before: The personal accolades, I really could care less about. I said it a few years ago, like, I would give up ever making a Pro Bowl to win a Super Bowl. Well, we won a Super Bowl. I mean, it’s the highest level. But at this point, it’s love of the game, loving the guys out here, and just loving competition.”

During Super Bowl LIX, Dickerson gained a level of attention that an offensive lineman usually receives only when his holding penalty nullifies a touchdown. The former Alabama All-American passed Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones to Philadelphia offensive tackle Jordan Mailata, then spun with his back to the play to stonewall linebacker Michael Danna’s rush up the middle.

“I actually hate that play,” Dickerson said. “I mean, as you guys kind of saw and probably knew going into the game, I had a bum knee, so moving was a little bit of an issue. But we also had some other injuries, so trying to play in that game and not force somebody else to go in when they weren’t ready. At that moment, doing the spin was actually the most efficient way since I was having some issues with the knee. I don’t really love the play. It’s ugly, but it worked.

“I kind of tell people it’s like a skydiver when you jump out of a plane. And you know, your first parachute doesn’t go, so you pull, like, an emergency parachute. And that was the emergency parachute.”

As the previous season’s champion, the Eagles will play in the first game of the NFL’s 2025 campaign. They will take on the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 4 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Before that, the Eagles have three preseason games – against the Cincinnati Bengals on Aug. 7, Cleveland Browns on Aug. 16 and New York Jets on Aug. 22.

FOR MORE OF AL.COM’S COVERAGE OF THE NFL, GO TO OUR NFL PAGE

Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.

The National Weather Service issued a report at 3:57 p.m. on Saturday for strong thunderstorms until 4:45 p.m. for Walker and Jefferson counties.

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

“At 3:57 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Gorgas Steam Plant, or 9 miles south of Cordova, moving northeast at 15 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 Sumiton, Cordova, Dora, Adamsville, Warrior, Graysville, Sipsey, West Jefferson, Gorgas Steam Plant, Rocky Hollow, Burnwell, Beloit, Quinton, Gorgas, Lynns Park, Sayre, Goodsprings, Barney, Empire and Birmingport.

According to the weather service, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”

Preparing for approaching lightning: Expert safety advice

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 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’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from 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.
• 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. 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, 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.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:

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:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Slow down and drive with care:

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:

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

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:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

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.

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.

The brand new thriller Before Your Father Finds Us premieres on Lifetime Saturday, July 26 at 8/7c.

Cord cutters looking to catch Lifetime’s latest thriller can enjoy the premiere live through Philo (free trial), DirecTV (free trial) or Sling (50% off first month).

What is Before Your Father Finds Us about?

Starring Alexa PenaVega and Tahmoh Penikett, Before Your Father Finds Us follows Sophia (PenaVega) and her daughter as they are forced to go into witness protection after she had to testify against her ex-husband Mason (Penikett) for his crimes.

After years of living a seemingly normal life spent in witness protection, Sophia learns that Mason has escaped from his maximum-security prison and is on the move.

How to watch Before Your Father Finds Us without cable

Those interested in catching the upcoming premiere can stream the movie live through Philo, DirecTV or Sling.

Both Philo and DirecTV offer free trials for new subscribers to enjoy before committing to a paid plan while Sling offers those that commit to a paid subscription half off their first month.

Out of the three streaming services listed above, Philo is the cheapest at just $28 a month after its 7-day free trial concludes.

What is Philo?

Philo is considered one of the most affordable streaming platforms on the market. Known as an entertainment-focused streaming service, Philo offers its subscribers access to over 70 top-rated TV channels such as TLC, MTV, BET, AMC, CMT, Investigation Discovery and more.

New users can enjoy Philo’s 7-day free trial and continue to stream top channels, hit TV shows and movies on-demand for just $28 a month once the free trial expires.

Those looking to customize their flow of content even further on Philo can consider including add-ons such as MGM+, STARZ, and AMC+ in their subscription.

What is DirecTV?

DirecTV is a top streaming service perfect for those looking to access a plethora of live TV channels and enjoy helpful features. The base package starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular TV channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNBC, BET, CNN and more.

DirecTV has also recently introduced a lineup of genre packs, which allows subscribers to choose their favorite viewing options based on what genre they watch the most. With genre packs, users can get the channels and content they want without filler channel overload. Packs start at just $34.99 a month.

Those interested in comparing all DirecTV’s channel packages and the new genre packs can check them out here.

What is Sling?

Sling is another streaming service to consider if you want to access top-rated TV channels like Lifetime. Though no free trial is available to new subscribers, those who commit to a paid plan get half off the first month.

Both the Sling Orange plan and the Sling Blue plan are normally $45.99 a month, but with the current promotion, Sling users will pay just $23 a month for the first month.

For those who wish to access channels from both the Sling Blue and Sling Orange plans can do so by signing up for the Orange + Blue plan, which combines the best of both plans for just $60.99 a month ($30.50 for the first month).

The National Weather Service issued a weather alert at 3:20 p.m. on Saturday for strong thunderstorms until 4:30 p.m. for Sumter, Greene, Hale and Marengo counties.

Residents may experience wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 3:20 p.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from near Meridian to Putnam. Movement was northeast at 30 mph,” according to the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Demopolis, Livingston, York, Linden, Uniontown, Cuba, Jefferson, Forkland, Boligee, Sweet Water, Gainesville, Epes, Myrtlewood, Faunsdale, Emelle, Dayton, Nanafalia, Thornhill, Boyd and Coatopa.

According to the weather service, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle.”

Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines

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 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 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.
• 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, as they 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 in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced 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, 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 heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:

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 drive with care:

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.

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:

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.

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.

The National Weather Service issued a report at 3:12 p.m. on Saturday for strong thunderstorms until 4 p.m. for Choctaw and Washington counties.

Expect pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 30 mph.

“At 3:12 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near Millry, or 8 miles north of Chatom, moving north at 15 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible.”

The alert is for Chatom, Millry and Silas.

The weather service adds, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”

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 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.
• 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, as they 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. 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.

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

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

Beware of swollen waterways:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

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.

Reduce speed and drive cautiously:

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:

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

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:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

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.

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.

A weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Saturday at 3:11 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 4 p.m. for Choctaw and Clarke counties.

Wind gusts of up to 30 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are predicted.

“At 3:11 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm 5 miles northeast of Toxey, or 9 miles south of Butler, moving north at 15 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Butler, Lisman, Coffeeville, Gilbertown and Toxey.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

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 crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• 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 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, 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 in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced 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

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 stay cautious:

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.

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 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.

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.

In the run-up to the 2025 season, AL.com featured some of the best 6A tight ends in Alabama high school football.

Now, we want to hear from you: Which 6A tight end will be the best of the best in 2025?

Read the write-ups on every tight end here, and then vote in the poll at the bottom of this page.

Best players at each position: QB | RB | WR | TE | OL | DL | LB | DB

The voting will conclude Sunday, August 17, at 11:59 p.m. Central. Later, we will publish the “fans’ all-star team” based on the vote of the readers.

Note: AL.com’s polls are intended to be fun. You can vote as many times as you want, but we discourage the use of script, macro or other automated means. AL.com reserves the right to adjust the voting based on irregularities. Email [email protected] with concerns.

THE CANDIDATES

(Candidates were selected based on information provided by coaches. Some coaches declined to respond to our requests for information about their team. Read more about each of these players here.)

Hayes DeCoudres, sr., Homewood

Connor Greb, jr., Spain Park

Nick Hampton, sr., Gulf Shores

Jackson Hanner, sr., Gardendale

Ethan Haynes, sr., Hartselle

Anthony “Tank” Jones, sr., St. Paul’s Episcopal

Cohen Jones, jr., Chelsea

Quentin Lewis, jr., Russell County

James Newby, jr., Athens

Nasir Ray, jr., Clay-Chalkville

Carson Stephens, jr., St. Paul’s Episcopal

J.T. Watts, sr., Homewood

For complete coverage of Alabama high school football, including schedules, scores, recruiting news and additional player spotlights, visit AL.com’s high school sports section throughout the season.

The brand new five-part docuseries Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time debuts with a three-part premiere on National Geographic Sunday, July 27 at 8/7c.

Those hoping to catch the latest docuseries to drop on the popular network can stream the premiere live through Fubo (free trial), DirecTV (free trial) or Sling (50% off first month).

The upcoming docuseries will also be available for streaming through Disney+ the day after it premieres on National Geographic.

What is Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time about?

The newest National Geographic docuseries transports viewers into the chaos that engulfed New Orleans as one of the deadliest catastrophes in U.S. history unfolded—capturing the fear, heroism and resilience of those who fought to survive the storm and its aftermath.

With the clear-eyed perspective of two decades of hindsight, this gripping historical record corrects persistent false narratives and exposes how a natural disaster became a national tragedy.

Grounded in gut-wrenching eyewitness testimony from survivors, first responders and officials, and brought to life with immersive archival footage, the series is an unparalleled, emotionally raw examination of the storm’s personal, political and societal fallout.

Episode release schedule

Those interested in watching all five parts of Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time can enjoy watching the first three parts back-to-back as they all release on Sunday, July 27. The remaining two parts are set to air on the network the following day on Monday, July 28 beginning at 8/7c.

How to watch Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time

Cord cutters looking to catch the new docuseries can find it available for streaming through Fubo, DirecTV, Sling and Disney+.

Both Fubo and DirecTV offer free trials for new subscribers while Sling offers those that commit to a paid subscription half off their first month. Plans for Disney+ start at just $10.99 a month.

What is Fubo?

Although primarily known as one of the most popular sports-focused streaming platforms, Fubo offers its subscribers much more than just sports related content. Fubo users can access over 100 live TV channels through its base package for just $84.99 a month following its free trial.

Some of the most popular channels available for streaming through Fubo include ESPN, ABC, CBS, NBC, TLC, MTV and more.

Subscribers can also enjoy a plethora of on-demand content in the form of hit TV shows and blockbuster movies and gain access to useful features such as the unlimited DVR feature.

What is DirecTV?

DirecTV is a top streaming service perfect for those looking to access a plethora of live TV channels and enjoy helpful features. The base package starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular TV channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNBC, BET, CNN and more.

DirecTV has also recently introduced a lineup of genre packs, which allows subscribers to choose their favorite viewing options based on what genre they watch the most. With genre packs, users can get the channels and content they want without filler channel overload. Packs start at just $34.99 a month.

Those interested in comparing all DirecTV’s channel packages and the new genre packs can check them out here.

What is Sling?

Sling is another streaming service to consider if you want to access top-rated TV channels like National Geographic. Though no free trial is available to new subscribers, those who commit to a paid plan get half off the first month.

Both the Sling Orange plan and the Sling Blue plan are normally $45.99 a month, but with the current promotion, Sling users will pay just $23 a month for the first month.

For those who wish to access channels from both the Sling Blue and Sling Orange plans can do so by signing up for the Orange + Blue plan, which combines the best of both plans for just $60.99 a month ($30.50 for the first month).

What is Disney+?

Disney+ is a streaming service created by Disney, and with plans starting at just $10.99, it rivals many of the top streaming services on the market now.

Through Disney+, subscribers can access movies, series and originals from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and more. Subscribers can also tailor their content specific to them by exploring the available bundles which include other streaming services Hulu and ESPN+.

Those interested in exploring all available plans and bundles offered through Disney+ can compare them here.

The NASCAR Cup Series returns to Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the second consecutive year after a three-season layoff. The green flag drops on the Brickyard 400 at IMS at 2 p.m. ET. Kyle Larson is the defending champion of this event and is one of the top betting favorites to win the race.

This will be the 29th running of a Cup race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval. From 2021 to 2023, the series raced at the site’s road course. We are getting closer to the playoffs, as just five races remain before the postseason begins.

We could see the winner emerge late, as only three of the last nine winners at the IMS oval led the most laps. The final lead change has come in the final eight laps in five of the past seven Brickyard 400 events. Five of the last seven races at the IMS oval were decided in overtime.

A great sidebar will be the final two drivers competing to win NASCAR’s In-Season Challenge bracket tournament. Ty Gibbs and Ty Dillon leaped over many other big-name drivers to arrive in the final, which you can wager on directly as a prop play.

3 best Brickyard 400 outright winner bets

• Kyle Larson (+500 on DraftKings Sportsbook): He broke out of a slump last week at Dover, finishing in fourth place.
• Denny Hamlin (+500): Aiming for his first win at the IMS oval, he has been running strong recently and might finally kiss the bricks.
• Chase Elliott (+900): Like Hamlin, Elliott is surging and is another good candidate to earn a first career win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway this week.

*Note: Odds are based on the best value our experts find as of publication; check lines prior to the race to ensure you get the best odds. Be sure to check on changing odds and outlooks following qualifying and practice.

Brickyard 400 alternate markets to consider betting

Top 3 Finishers

• Denny Hamlin: +160 at DraftKings Sportsbook
• Ryan Blaney: +220
• Tyler Reddick: +320
• Bubba Wallace: +850

Top 5 Finishers

• Chase Briscoe: +145
• Christopher Bell: +160
• Brad Keselowski: +285
• Ty Gibbs: +320

Race Props

Driver prop: Brad Keselowski +285 over Chris Buescher, Joey Logano and Ty Gibbs

Top Ford: Brad Keselowski (+550)

Winning Manufacturer: Toyota (+160)

2025 Brickyard 400 Race Winner Odds

*Odds current as of July 27 on DraftKings Sportsbook*

• Denny Hamlin +500
• Kyle Larson +500
• Ryan Blaney +600
• Chase Elliott +900
• William Byron +900
• Tyler Reddick +1000
• Chase Briscoe +1100
• Christopher Bell +1200
• Chris Buescher +1400
• Joey Logano +2000
• Brad Keselowski +2200
• Carson Hocevar +2500
• Ty Gibbs +2500
• Kyle Busch +2800
• Bubba Wallace +3000
• Ross Chastain +3500
• Austin Cindric +3500
• Alex Bowman +3500

Brickyard 400 Favorites

Kyle Larson won the last race at the IMS oval, after leading only eight laps. His all-time Driver Rating of 98.6 at the site is third-best among active drivers, and he leads all drivers in Average Running Position (10.2). Hendrick Motorsports leads all teams in Indianapolis wins with 11.

Denny Hamlin may have his best chance to win at Indianapolis this week. He is coming off a series-leading fourth win of the season at Dover last week, and has finished in the top 4 in five of his last seven starts.

Hamlin leads all active Cup drivers with wins in “Crown Jewel” events such as this and is looking to become the fifth driver all-time to complete the Grand Slam of Crown Jewel races.

Chase Elliott finished in the top 11 in his last three Indianapolis starts and has been regaining his better form in recent weeks. He finished in the top 6 in four of his last five starts, and placed fifth at Pocono, which is a somewhat comparable large oval.

Brickyard 400 contenders

Ryan Blaney failed to finish in the top 10 in three of his last four starts, but he did place third in his last start at the IMS oval. No active Team Penske driver has a win at the Brickyard, but Blaney could push for the win he missed out on last year.

At the IMS oval, Tyler Reddick is second in Driver Rating (101.9) and Average Finish (5.0). He could potentially clinch a playoff berth with a win. Reddick finished in the top 6 in three of his last four starts and placed second at the Brickyard in 2024, leading for 40 laps.

Chase Briscoe won at Pocono this year and he started and finished second in each of his last two starts in 2025. This is a “home” race for the native of Mitchell, Indiana.

Christopher Bell has the third-best Average Finish at the Brickyard (8.0). He placed fourth in his last start at the site. Bell finished fifth at Sonoma in the race before last week’s Dover event. He is searching for more consistency, but can be a contender in any week, with three wins and three second place finishes so far this season.

Brickyard 400 sleepers and value bets

Brad Keselowski won at the IMS oval in 2018 and has won three of four Crown Jewel events. He is third among active drivers in most laps led at the Brickyard (1,837).

Keselowski finished in the top 4 in three of his last five Indianapolis starts. As you see throughout this article, DraftKings features some good value prop plays on Keselowski for this site.

This is a good track to roll with Bubba Wallace. In four starts at the IMS oval, where he has two top 5 finishes and three top 10 showings. This is an important week for him to maintain his playoff positioning after missing the postseason last year.

With an eye on winning the In-Season Challenge, plus a good run of recent finishes, Ty Gibbs is a prime play to finish in the top 5 and potentially challenge for the win.

He has placed between second and seventh in his last three starts. Gibbs is at -280 to beat Ty Dillon in the head-to-head driver prop matchup.

More Brickyard 400 betting picks

Top 10 Finishers: Carson Hocevar (-105 at DraftKings Sportsbook), Alex Bowman (+135), Shane Van Gisbergen (+330), John Hunter Nemechek (+360), Riley Herbst (+1700).

Driver Matchup Prop: Brad Keselowski (-110) over Joey Logano

Top Ford: Brad Keselowski (+550).

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The season finale of Revry’s latest reality show, King of Drag, premieres Sunday, July 27 at 9/8c.

Those hoping to catch the conclusion of the debut season can stream the premiere live through Philo and DirecTV—both of which offer free trials for new subscribers to enjoy before committing to a paid subscription.

What is King of Drag?

For those unfamiliar with the relatively new series, King of Drag is the first ever drag king competition series where masculinity meets artistry, swagger meets sequins, and drag kings finally take center stage.

Hosted by Murray Hill and ruled by the illustrious “King’s Court” including regular judges Tenderoni, Sasha Velour, Gottmik, and Wang Newton, each episode features special guest judges, memorable challenges, and a competition like never before.

The season finale episode will feature the remaining drag kings as the battle it out for the crown and the title as the first King of Drag.

How to watch the King of Drag season 1 finale

Those interested in tuning in for the can’t-miss season one finale can find it available for streaming through Philo and DirecTV.

What is Philo?

Philo is considered one of the most affordable streaming platforms on the market. Known as an entertainment-focused streaming service, Philo offers its subscribers access to over 70 top-rated TV channels such as TLC, MTV, BET, AMC, CMT, Investigation Discovery and more.

New users can enjoy Philo’s 7-day free trial and continue to stream top channels, hit TV shows and movies on-demand for just $28 a month once the free trial expires.

Those looking to customize their flow of content even further on Philo can consider including add-ons such as MGM+, STARZ, and AMC+ in their subscription.

What is DirecTV?

DirecTV is a top streaming service perfect for those looking to access a plethora of live TV channels and enjoy helpful features. The base package starts at just $86.99 a month after its 5-day free trial and includes popular TV channels such as HGTV, ESPN, Bravo, CMT, CNBC, BET, CNN and more.

DirecTV has also recently introduced a lineup of genre packs, which allows subscribers to choose their favorite viewing options based on what genre they watch the most. With genre packs, users can get the channels and content they want without filler channel overload. Packs start at just $34.99 a month.

Those interested in comparing all DirecTV’s channel packages and the new genre packs can check them out here.