St. Michael set for nationally televised game to open 2026 season
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St. Michael Catholic High School will host a nationally televised football game next month, according to reports from 247 Sports and Rivals.com.
ESPN is expected to be in town for a rare Saturday kickoff of a high school football game as the Cardinals host a cross-border battle. Here’s what you need to know:
- Who: St. Michael (AL) vs. Battle Ground Academy (TN)
- Where: 11732 St. Michael Way, Fairhope, AL 36532
- When: 1:30PM | Saturday, Aug. 22
- Watch: ESPN2
Gunner Rivers, Bo Bryan to take the field in Fairhope
The high-profile game features two successful programs but also two big names leading the offenses.
For St. Michael, it is Gunner Rivers, an NC State commit and the son of former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers who is also the head coach of the Cardinals.
Rivers is widely considered one of the top recruits in the state for the Class of 2027. He has already started for two seasons with the Cardinals, leading them to 25 wins and consecutive Class 4A semifinals appearances.
On the other sideline will be Battle Ground Academy’s 3-star quarterback Bo Bryan, the son of country music star Luke Bryan.
Note: We have reached out to St. Michael for comment but have not received a response. This story will be updated with confirmed information.
