5 things to know about Week 2 of high school football in the Huntsville area

The 2026 high school football season in the Huntsville area is shifting into high gear for Week 2. Here is a breakdown of the key storylines and matchups to keep an eye on this weekend.

Game of the Week

James Clemens (1-0) at Parker (0-1) | Friday, 7 p.m., Birmingham

In a marquee clash, James Clemens travels to Birmingham for a first-ever meeting against Class 5A No. 5 Parker. The Jets enter this one following a dominant 45-24 season-opening performance against Austin, while Parker aims to bounce back after a road loss to Vestavia Hills. James Clemens features an explosive offense led by running back MJ Gideon, who tallied five touchdowns in Week 1, and quarterback Matthew Evers, who threw three scores. They face a stiff test against a Parker defense boasting high-level talent like four-star defensive back CJ Craig-James and a defensive front anchored by college commits Robert Taylor (Arkansas State), Jermaine Lewis (Western Kentucky), and Demetrius Terrell (Tulane).

Five More Games to Watch

Mae Jemison (0-0) at Huntsville (0-1) | Thursday, 7 p.m., Milton Frank Stadium

After last week’s opener was cut short by a transformer explosion at Alabama A&M, Mae Jemison gets a second shot at a season debut. The Jaguars boast a roster filled with Division I prospects, including four-star offensive lineman Samuel Bailey, Jachristopher Black, Michael Crum Jr., and Bryson Shelburne-Ellison. Huntsville is looking to rebound from a 28-14 loss to Jasper, relying on four-star offensive tackle Joey Fleming and a stout defensive front.

West Morgan at Madison Academy | Friday, 7 p.m.

This contest marks a high-stakes reunion as Madison Academy coach Bob Godsey chases his 250th career victory against his former player, West Morgan coach Drew Phillips. These two programs renew their rivalry following a 2024 playoff matchup. Madison Academy will look to bounce back from a narrow 24-21 loss to Mars Hill Bible, while West Morgan hopes to build momentum after an early-season setback against Athens.

Austin (0-1) at Sparkman (0-1) | Friday, 7 p.m.

Both teams are searching for their first win of the season. Austin is coming off a tough outing against James Clemens, while Sparkman fell in a tight 17-13 contest to Spain Park. Sparkman’s offense features dual-threat quarterback Joshua Naylon, while Austin looks to utilize the speed of Quaylen Hampton, who recorded a 91-yard kickoff return for a touchdown last week.

Randolph (1-0) at Whitesburg Christian (1-0) | Friday, 7 p.m., Madison County Elementary School

Local private school bragging rights are on the line in this first-ever matchup. Both teams enter undefeated after shutout victories—Whitesburg Christian dominated St. John Paul II, 35-0, while Randolph blanked Pisgah, 47-0. Keep an eye on region newcomer of the year Greer Lovell at quarterback for Whitesburg, and the dual-threat capability of Randolph’s Landon Leo.

Buckhorn (1-0) at Oak Mountain (0-1) | Friday, 7 p.m.

Buckhorn hits the road to Shelby County following a thrilling 23-20 overtime win against Decatur. Quarterback Parker Turley leads the Bucks’ air attack, while Oak Mountain enters this contest looking for a win after a high-scoring 45-38 loss to Pelham.

Family Affair

A unique family reunion hits the field in Rainsville as Plainview coach Dale Pruitt faces off against his son, Boaz coach Luke Pruitt. To add to the family dynamic, former Tennessee coach Jeremy Pruitt serves on the Plainview staff. Class 3A No. 1 Plainview looks to maintain its momentum after a 31-24 win over Good Hope, while Boaz arrives fresh off a 21-14 victory over Cullman.

Player to Watch: MJ Gideon

James Clemens running back and Vanderbilt commit MJ Gideon is the name to watch this week. He shredded the Austin defense for 150 yards and four touchdowns on the ground, adding another score through the air. A first-team all-state selection, Gideon continues to be the primary engine for the Jets' offense.

Did You Know?

Madison Academy head coach Bob Godsey enters Friday with 249 career wins, sitting just one away from the 250-win milestone among coaches with Madison County ties. He currently ranks third on that list behind John Meadows (276) and Kenneth McKinney (254).