Cris Bell Out As Tuscaloosa County High Football Coach

NORTHPORT, AL — Cris Bell has been relieved of his duties as head football coach at Tuscaloosa County High School, with the team being informed of the decision following the Wildcats' 62-7 loss at Thompson on Friday night.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

TCHS Principal Darrell Williams confirmed the news to Patch Saturday morning and said parents were informed that the decision had been made to make a change in the leadership for the football program.

He then said assistant coach Matthew Carden will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season while the school begins the process of identifying a permanent head coach.

"This was a very difficult decision," Williams said. "Coach Bell is a fine man and an outstanding football coach. We are extremely appreciative of the leadership, dedication, and commitment he has provided to our football program, and we wish him nothing but success in the future."

Bell's resignation comes five games into his second season, leading the program to a 1-14 record during his tenure after coming to Northport from Robertsdale High School.

The Wildcats fell to 0-5 overall and 0-3 in Class 6A, Region 3 play with Friday's loss.

The Wildcats have also been outscored 279-14 through its first five games, including three shut outs, and have yet to score more than seven points in a game.

Tuscaloosa County opened the season with blowout losses to rivals Hillcrest and Central, before being shut out by both Prattville and Hewitt-Trussville.

Bell took over at Tuscaloosa County ahead of the 2025 season following the departure of Miles Holcomb after one season.

His second year coincided with the Wildcats' move from Class 7A back into Class 6A to compete in Region 3.

Tuscaloosa County is scheduled for an open date Friday, Sept. 25, giving the program nearly two weeks before its next game when Vestavia Hills comes to Northport on Oct. 2.

Williams told parents that the primary focus moving forward will be to ensure the continued support for the current players and coaches.

"We all know this season has been challenging, and we are hopeful that our players will be able to return healthy and ready for the second half of the season," he said. "I want to assure you that I will do everything in my power to find the best leader for our football program and school community. As we begin this search, we will be looking for someone who is a strong relationship builder with players, parents, staff, and the community. We want a coach who will motivate, inspire, and develop young men both on and off the field while creating a culture that reflects the values of Tuscaloosa County High School."

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com