Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
In 2024, Prattville High School’s football team was moved into one of the most difficult regions in the entire state. Over the last two seasons, the Lions faced weekly challenges against teams such as 7-time state champion Thompson, 13-time state champion Hoover, 2-time state champion Vestavia Hills that was ranked #2 in the final Class 7A poll of the 2025 regular season, a Hewitt Trussville team that was ranked #1 in Class 7A in Week 6, not to mention Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa, Oak Mountain, and Tuscaloosa County. In those two years, Prattville starting running back Tristin Blackmon had 2061 all-purpose yards and 25 touchdowns. In 2025 during his senior season, Blacmon went over the 1000 yard mark, rushing for 1011 yards and 16 touchdowns. As a result of the successful season, the Elmore Autauga News has named Tristin Blackmon as the Autauga County Football Player of the Year.
“It’s an honor,” said Blackmon. “Especially in a place where I grew up and I know it’s a very respected award.”
Blackmon had many memorable moments during his career, but one stuck out as the most memorable.
“The overtime go-ahead touchdown against Hillcrest in overtime (was the most memorable). It was a must-win game and a must have play.”
At the time of the game, the Lions were 4-3 overall and 3-2 in region play. In order to remain in the playoff hunt, Prattville needed a win on the road against Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa. After a late touchdown to send the game into overtime, Blackmon scored a rushing touchdown for the go-ahead score for the Lions. Prattville hung on for the 38-31 overtime win.
Blackmon also credited the young offensive linemen blocking for him during the season.
“They were a young o-line but one of, if not the best in the state. I love every single one of them guys and wouldn’t be at the point I’m at without them,” said Blackmon.
Last week, Blackmon signed a scholarship with Bowling Green University, a Division 1 school based in Bowling Green, Ohio, that competes in Mid-American Conference.
“In college, we want to win our conference in the next two years and make the CFB playoffs. I am going to use all my free time, training, training, and training.”
