OPINION — Note: By the time this paper is printed, Opelika or Thompson is the AHSAA Class 7A State Champion. Unfortunately, the paper has to go to press prior to the game being completed.Be sure to watch The Observer’s website www.opelikaobserver.com for the final outcome of the game.
No matter the outcome, I feel it is necessary to write about the job coach Bryan Moore has done at OHS.
In just two seasons as head coach, Bryan Moore has revitalized Opelika’s football program and guided the Bulldogs to remarkable success. Taking the helm in January 2024, Moore brought a wealth of experience and a proven track record, having compiled an impressive 86-21 career record as a head coach prior to taking the Opelika job.
Under Moore’s leadership, Opelika quickly regained its competitive edge in Class 7A. In his first season (2024), Moore led the Bulldogs to a 9-3 record, finishing second in Region 2 and advanced to the second round of the playoffs. The team averaged nearly 35 points per game and allowed just 16.5 points per contest.
Moore’s emphasis on discipline, player development and community engagement has been evident both on and off the field. His ability to build strong relationships with players and the Opelika community has created a culture of excellence and pride in the program.
The pinnacle of his short tenure so far, is advancing to the AHSAA Super 7 Championship game.
This is a major milestone for a program that did not make the 7A playoffs prior to his arrival. This marks a major milestone for the program and reaffirms Moore’s vision of making Opelika one of Alabama’s premier football programs. This achievement in such a short time underscores his leadership and commitment to success.
Congratulations to coach Bryan Moore, staff and players for earning a trip to play in the AHSAA Super 7 football Championship.
OHS BASKETBALL
Opelika boys’ basketball team got off to a 5-2 record in November. The Dogs beat Charles Henderson 73-71 in the season opener. Dothan evened OHS record with a 56-39 win at home. Opelika went on a winning streak, beating Benjamin Russell 67-45, LaFayette 66-50, lost to Charles Henderson 65-58 and blew out Valley 72-42 in Fairfax.
Kaleb Baker leads the team offensively, averaging 10 points a game, AJ Harvis is hitting 43% of his goals, Caurdae Wright averages 3.3 assists per game, and Brady McNally is averaging three steals a game.
Opelika’s girls are off to a 1-8 start with a win over LaFayette.
The two varsity teams open area competition after Christmas, in January. As always, iHeartRadio’s FOX Sports the Game 910-1310 will air all the area games presented by the Othopaedic Clinic. Stay tuned for more as games approach.
SUPER 7
Friday, Dec. 5 at 3 p.m., Lanett will play Coosa Central in the AHSAA Class 2A State Championship game at Birmingham’s Protective Stadium. The Panthers are coached by RJ McDonald, while Coosa Christian is coached by Hall of Famer Rush Propst. Fans can watch the game on Alabama Public TV or WOTM TV Channel 80 on Charter spectrum.
D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.
