The Opelika Bulldogs (7-2, R, 4-2) defeated the Parker Thundering Herd, of Birmingham, 50-34, in the last regular season game at Bulldog Stadium last Thursday night.
The Bulldogs recognized 29 senior football players along with senior band members and cheerleaders before the game. All 29 seniors played in the game, along with one senior manager, Deavonte “D-Rock” Ross. Ross has been a manager for four years and has always wanted to play football. Coach Brian Blackmon and his staff got together a month ago to start the paper work to allow Deavonte to play and be eligible with the AHSAA. The paperwork was completed and “D-Rock” (his nickname) suited up with jersey number 89 and ran out on the field with the rest of the team to play against Parker on senior night. Ross was elected by his teammates to be one of the game captains.
Opelika jumped out to a 34-7 lead in the first half against the out-matched team from Birmingham. The starters were quickly removed and reserves played most of the game including the entire second half. Most of the 97 players that dressed for the game played.