I am confused, is your warm side 96-97F?
That's too hot for a BP if it is.
Nothing over 90F is a good rule. 91-93F won't hurt the snake, but likely the animal will not like that very much. Hotter than that is not good and when you get over 95F it can be bad for the BP.
You have two BP's and a BCI now, correct? I would begin ordering frozen rats online, if you have freezer space. Big Cheese Rodents and Perfect Prey are both good sources. The latter sells smaller packs as well, but you have to pay for shipping either way.