Opelika High School's football team, the Bulldogs, is gearing up for a demanding 2026 season, having recently unveiled a schedule packed with top-tier competition. Under the guidance of new head coach Jonathan Chandler, the team is poised to tackle a challenging lineup that includes several opponents ranked among Alabama's elite in the Massey Ratings. This follows a successful 2025 season where the Bulldogs reached the 7A state championship game, demonstrating their consistent pursuit of excellence in high school athletics.
Opelika Bulldogs Announce Highly Anticipated 2026 Football Season Schedule
In mid-February 2026, the Opelika Bulldogs officially released their much-anticipated football schedule for the upcoming fall season. This announcement has generated considerable excitement among fans and players alike, especially as new head coach Jonathan Chandler steps into his role. Chandler, who previously led Montgomery Catholic, takes the helm after Bryan Moore's successful two-year tenure, which saw the Bulldogs achieve a 19-7 record and a memorable run to the 7A state championship final, ultimately falling to the powerful Thompson team 48-10. The 2025 season concluded with Opelika ranked No. 9 in the state according to the Alabama High School Football Massey Rankings, a testament to their strong performance.
The 2026 schedule features a formidable roster of opponents, with several teams that finished within Alabama's Top 25 Massey Ratings last season. Key matchups include encounters with Auburn, Benjamin Russell, Hoover, and Phenix City Central, promising intense rivalries and high-stakes games. The schedule kicks off on August 21 with an away game against Benjamin Russell. Subsequent home games at the Opelika stadium include contests against Hoover on August 28, Enterprise on September 4, and Phenix City Central on September 11. The Bulldogs will then travel to face Auburn on October 2 and Dothan on October 9, before returning home to host Smiths Station on October 16. Their final away game is against Carver on October 23, culminating with a home game against Prattville on October 29. These challenging fixtures will be crucial for the Bulldogs as they aim to build on their past successes and contend for another state title.
Opelika High School, renowned for its 'Bulldogs' athletics, fosters a culture of both academic rigor and athletic prowess. Established in 1917, the football program has a storied history of excellence, consistently vying for state playoff berths and securing numerous regional titles. Beyond football, the school offers a diverse range of sports, including basketball, soccer, and track, actively encouraging students to engage in both their studies and extracurricular pursuits. The team's iconic red and black colors symbolize their enduring spirit and determination on the field.
For high school football enthusiasts in Alabama, keeping up with game scores and statistics is now more accessible than ever. The Rivals High School Scoreboard provides real-time updates and comprehensive final scores from across the state, ensuring that fans don't miss any of the thrilling action. From last-minute comebacks to dominant victories, this platform serves as an essential resource for following all the excitement of high school football throughout the Yellowhammer State.
The announcement of Opelika's challenging 2026 schedule underscores the competitive spirit and high standards of Alabama high school football. As fans, we anticipate a season filled with thrilling performances and strategic plays. The arrival of Coach Chandler also signifies a new chapter for the Bulldogs, offering an opportunity to innovate and elevate their game. It's inspiring to see young athletes pushed to their limits, fostering not only athletic talent but also resilience and teamwork. This upcoming season promises to be a compelling narrative of ambition, determination, and the pursuit of gridiron glory in the heart of Alabama.