Tuscaloosa, Alabama, August 31, 2025
News Summary
In a surprising turn, the Alabama Crimson Tide football team lost their season opener against Florida State with a score of 31-17, marking their first season-opening loss since 2001. Despite Ty Simpson’s strong performance, completing 23 out of 43 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns, the team struggled to maintain their lead after allowing 24 unanswered points. Meanwhile, Columbia High School’s football team continues to face challenges, with a record-setting losing streak of 93 games, prompting new head coach Sammie Coates Jr. to take proactive measures in revitalizing the program.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama – In an unexpected turn of events, the Alabama Crimson Tide football team faced a disappointing start to the season, losing 31-17 against Florida State in their season opener on Saturday, September 6, 2025. This marks the first season-opening loss for Alabama since their defeat against UCLA in 2001, bringing their current record to 0-1.
Despite scoring first in the game, Alabama allowed Florida State to dominate afterward, allowing 24 unanswered points. Ty Simpson, in his 2025 season debut, showcased a strong performance by completing 23 of his 43 passes for a total of 254 yards, contributing two touchdowns without throwing any interceptions. However, this was not enough to secure a victory, as Alabama looks ahead to their next matchup against UL Monroe.
Meanwhile, Columbia High School’s football team is grappling with its own struggles, extending its record-setting losing streak to 93 games after their latest loss to Huffman, where they fell short with a score of 21-10. The Eagles’ last victory occurred over eight years ago, on October 16, 2015, against Ardmore, and the team has yet to win a game since. This streak has now solidified Columbia High School’s position as holding the longest losing streak in high school football history.
New head football coach Sammie Coates Jr. is adamant about instilling a culture of winning within the team. Coates, who has past experience in the NFL with teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns, is working tirelessly to support and develop the players. Gatorade has also stepped in to provide additional resources to help turn the program around, including hydration education and sweat testing through the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. The organization is monitoring player hydration levels during practice sessions and supplying necessary sideline equipment to enhance player performance.
As part of an effort to highlight the team’s journey, a documentary titled “All the Reasons Not to Quit – The Columbia HS Story” is in production by NFL Films and Gatorade, which will premiere later this fall. Coates, who has also served as an assistant coach at various other schools and universities, is determined to break the losing streak when the Eagles face Priceville next, a team that notoriously defeated Columbia 68-6 last season.
Upcoming Fixtures
- Alabama Crimson Tide: Next game against UL Monroe on September 6, 2025.
- Columbia High School Eagles: Next game against Priceville.
Key Statistics
- Alabama’s overall season record: 0-1
- Columbia High School losing streak: 93 games
- Last Columbia victory: October 16, 2015
Background Context
Alabama football has long been hailed as a powerhouse in college sports. This latest loss has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts. The program’s rich history of victories and championship titles makes this season-opening loss particularly surprising.
Columbia High School has faced significant challenges in recent years, with a record-setting losing streak casting a shadow over its football program. Coach Sammie Coates Jr. aims to revitalize the team through strategic training and support from organizations like Gatorade. The involvement of Gatorade signifies a commitment to improving the athletes’ conditions and ensuring they are adequately supported both psychologically and physically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Alabama lose against Florida State?
Alabama initially scored but allowed Florida State to score 24 unanswered points afterward, leading to the loss.
What is Columbia High School’s current football record?
Columbia High School’s football team is currently on a losing streak of 93 games, holding the record for the longest losing streak in high school football history.
What initiatives are being taken to support Columbia’s football program?
Gatorade is providing essential support, including hydration education and equipment to help improve player performance. A documentary project is also in the works to document their journey.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Huntsville Welcomes New High School Football Talent
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Huntsville City Schools Enhances Educational Experience
Columbia Eagles Face 93-Game Losing Streak in High School Football
College Football’s Economic Impact in Alabama
Columbia High School Football Team Aims to Break 91-Game Losing Streak
Huntsville High School: A Legacy of Athletic Excellence
Huntsville High Schools Celebrate Athletic Achievements
University of Alabama Welcomes New Sorority Members
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Alabama High School Football’s Longest Losing Streak
- Wikipedia: Alabama Crimson Tide Football
- WAFF: No. 8 Alabama Falls to Florida State Season Opener
- Google Search: Florida State Football Season Opener 2025
- SI: Former NFL WR Sammie Coates Teams Up to Break Losing Skid
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- MaxPreps: Football Recap Huntsville’s Higher State Rank
- Google News: Huntsville Football 2025
- Hville Blast: New Pro Football Team Coming to Huntsville
- Google Scholar: Huntsville Sports
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
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