Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Several community groups gathered in Northport to host a drive-thru toy giveaway at New Dimensions Worship Center, giving away over 200 toys and using a COVID relief drive-thru (for safety and efficiency).

The event was part of a biannual effort organized by Toys For Tots, Good 360, and Rehovot to ensure children received age-appropriate gift bags.

Tuscaloosa County officials agreed to let Warrior Met Coal fund improvements on Brandon School Road as part of a $1.3 billion project to move coal from a new mine to a Norfolk Southern rail line—this upgrade will allow trucks to haul heavier loads safely at no cost to taxpayers.

An investigation found many Alabama dams are at risk of failing because there is no state law that requires regular inspections.

In Shelby County, a $28 million rehab project for Lake Purdy Dam began with excavation in March and will add new supports by early 2026—lawmakers are set to consider making inspections mandatory.

Alabama football lost its opener to Florida State 31-17, and ESPN's Dan Orlovsky questioned Kalen DeBoer’s leadership—citing poor effort and tackling as signs of trouble.

The team will face Louisiana Monroe at home on Sept. 6.

After a 31-17 loss to Florida State on Saturday, Alabama football has dropped three of its last four games and faces growing questions about coach Kalen DeBoer’s future—especially following the program's struggles since Nick Saban’s retirement.

The Tide will play Louisiana-Monroe and Wisconsin before a road trip to Georgia on Sept. 27.

Former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy defended first-year starter Ty Simpson after the Tide's loss to Florida State, saying his 254 passing yards, two touchdowns and no turnovers showed he played hard.

McElroy said fans who blame the loss on Simpson do not see the tough pressure he faced—Simpson was sacked three times and was under heavy defensive pressure.

Louisiana Monroe Warhawks vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Football

6:45-8:15 p.m. — Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium — Tickets vary — Experience thrilling college football action as the Warhawks take on the Crimson Tide.

ZZ Top Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Last-minute tickets available — Rock out with the legendary ZZ Top at this iconic venue.

Evanescence Concert

6-9 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Check for ticket details — Experience the powerful sounds of Evanescence live as they promote their latest music.

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Check local listings — Experience the unforgettable hits of a legendary music partnership.

Tuscaloosa Oktoberfest 5K

8-9 a.m. — Government Plaza — Registration fees apply — Lace up for a day of fun and purpose while supporting the American Cancer Society.

Peter Noone Live

7-11 p.m. — Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary sound of Peter Noone, the iconic lead singer of Herman's Hermits.

Tuscaloosa Taco & Margarita Festival

12-6 p.m. — The Venue — Ticket prices vary — Taste bold tacos, chilled margaritas, and enjoy live music at this ultimate fiesta.

The Brook & The Bluff Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Druid City Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the expertly crafted songs and sublime musicianship of Nashville-based band The Brook & The Bluff.