Big Friday Kickoff Podcast Previews Top Returning QBs in 6A & 5A

Experts break down and rank the top quarterbacks in Alabama's top high school football divisions.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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In the latest episode of the Big Friday Kickoff podcast, hosts Emily Cochran and Robert Ristaneo analyze and rank the top returning quarterbacks in Alabama's 6A and 5A high school football divisions. They discuss proven playmakers, rising stars, and which QBs could make a big jump next season.

Why it matters

High school football is a huge part of the culture in Alabama, and the quarterback position is arguably the most important. These early rankings and analysis of the top returning signal-callers provide valuable insight into which teams and players to watch in the upcoming season.

The details

On the podcast, Cochran and Ristaneo break down the top quarterbacks in 6A and 5A, Alabama's two largest high school football classifications. They evaluate factors like on-field production, potential, and leadership to create their early rankings for the 2026 season. The hosts debate which QBs are ranked too high or too low, and which players could be poised for a breakout year.

  • The Big Friday Kickoff podcast was released on February 18, 2026.

The players

Emily Cochran

Co-host of the Big Friday Kickoff podcast.

Robert Ristaneo

Co-host of the Big Friday Kickoff podcast.

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What they’re saying

“From proven playmakers to rising stars ready to take over under center, we're stacking the top QBs and debating who deserves the No. 1 spot.”

— Emily Cochran, Co-host (fox10tv.com)

“Who's too high? Who's too low? And who's about to make a big jump? Tune in and join the debate.”

— Robert Ristaneo, Co-host (fox10tv.com)

What’s next

Fans can follow the Big Friday Kickoff podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube to stay up-to-date on the latest high school football news and analysis in Alabama.

The takeaway

The Big Friday Kickoff podcast provides valuable early insight into the top high school quarterbacks in Alabama's 6A and 5A divisions, setting the stage for an exciting upcoming football season in the state.