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D. Mark Mitchell Articles

On the Mark | Bulldogs proud despite loss

OPINION — Opelika’s first trip to the Class 7A state championship didn’t end the way Bulldog fans had hoped, but Wednesday night’s loss to Thompson offered a clear look at the gap between a rising program and an established dynasty. As the Warriors powered to a 48-10...
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On the Mark | Coach Moore’s impact at OHS

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...
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Bulldogs bound for Birmingham

OPINION — In a rivalry showdown for the ages, Opelika edged Auburn High 34-31 Friday night to earn a spot in the Class 7A state championship game. The Bulldogs will face Thompson at 7 p.m. on Dec. 3 in the AHSAA Super 7 football championships at Protective Stadium in...
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On the Mark | Bulldogs roll into semifinals after dominant win over Baker

OPINION —The Opelika Bulldogs continued their playoff run in commanding fashion Friday night, defeating the Baker Hornets 35-9 in the second round of the AHSAA Class 7A playoffs in the friendly confines of Bulldog Stadium. The Bulldogs (9-3) showcased a balanced...
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On the Mark | Jan. 28, 2025

On the Mark | Jan. 28, 2025

Jan 28, 2025

By D. Mark Mitchell OPINION — Opelika High School’s Athletic Department was quiet last week due to a winter storm that left our area with snow and...

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On the Mark | Jan. 28, 2025

On the Mark | Jan. 23, 2025

Jan 22, 2025

Inclement weather postpones Opelika sports OPINION — The forecast for Alabama called for sub-freezing temperatures and possible icy road conditions,...

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On the Mark | Jan. 28, 2025

On the Mark | Jan. 16, 2025

Jan 14, 2025

OHS basketball in middle of area regular season OPINION — Opelika High played two Area basketball games since my last column: Central-Phenix City...

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On the Mark | Jan. 28, 2025

On the Mark | Jan. 9, 2025

Jan 8, 2025

High school winter sports now in full swing - On the Mark Happy 2025! We are in the middle of high school winter sports. Basketball started Area...

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On the Mark | Jan. 2, 2025

On the Mark | Jan. 2, 2025

Dec 31, 2024

OHS basketball heads into area competition OPINION — The Opelika girls and boys basketball teams have completed pre-area schedules. Holiday...

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On the Mark | Jan. 2, 2025

On the Mark | Dec. 24, 2024

Dec 24, 2024

Wrapping up 2024 with basketball, wrestling OPINION — Local Schools are on Christmas and New Years break, but basketball teams, including Opelika’s...

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On the Mark | Jan. 2, 2025

On the Mark | Dec. 19, 2024

Dec 17, 2024

OHS wrestlers compete in Suede Umbach Invitational OPINION — The OHS boys Wrestling team particiapated in the 20th “Suede Umbach Invitational” last...

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On the Mark | Jan. 2, 2025

On the Mark | Dec. 12, 2024

Dec 10, 2024

State championships held in Birmingham OPINION — The Alabama High School Athletic Association completed the Super 7 football champion-ship and flag...

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On the Mark | Jan. 2, 2025

On the Mark | Dec. 5, 2024

Dec 3, 2024

Super 7 Football Championships Underway OPINION — The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) is holding the Super 7 Football Championships...

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