FAIRHOPE, Ala. ([WALA](https://www.fox10tv.com/)) - Former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers has made a smooth transition from Sundays to Friday nights. In just four years as head coach at St. Michael, he’s turned the Cardinals into a contender. Last season, they made the deepest playoff run in program history. Now, Rivers and his players are ready to take another shot at a state title.
Under Philip Rivers, St. Michael has become one of the most dangerous teams in Class 4A — winning 29 games in four seasons and coming off a 12-2 record with a trip to the state semifinals.
A big reason for last year’s success — and this year’s expectations — is Rivers’ oldest son, Gunner, now entering his third season as the Cardinals’ starting quarterback.
Last fall, Gunner threw for nearly 4,000 yards and 36 touchdowns: already topping 7,000 career passing yards with one more season after this one to go. A pocket passer with elite accuracy and decision-making, he’s comfortable under pressure — even if his throwing motion is a little unique, just like his dads.
And he’s not short on weapons. Senior running back Noah Moss is coming off a monster 2024 — more than 1,800 rushing yards, 32 touchdowns, plus another 500 receiving yards.
Add in wideouts Brody Jones, Tucker Tomlinson, and two-way star Kamarjay Lavoie — and this St. Michael offense has all the pieces to light up the scoreboard again this fall.
If last year was any indication, expect St. Michael to be in the hunt deep into November — and with Gunner Rivers under center and his weapons around him, the Cardinals’ offense could be one of the most explosive in the state.
The Cardinals kick off their season at home against Bayside Academy on Aug. 22.
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