Down Memory Lane: Polar Bears bring down the giant
Above) The 2005 ONU upset of Mount Union is available to watch on the ONU Digital History YouTube channel.
On Oct. 22, 2005, Ohio Northern football made history with a 21-14 upset of Mount Union in Alliance, Ohio. The Polar Bears snapped the Purple Raiders’ 110-game regular-season winning streak and 99-game Ohio Athletic Conference winning streak.
Behind three rushing touchdowns from R.J. Meadows and a defense that forced four turnovers without committing one, ONU delivered one of the biggest victories in program history. Even in the face of a powerhouse that would go on to win the national championship, the Polar Bears proved that any streak could end.
In 2026, Ohio Northern welcomes Mount Union to Ada for their annual matchup on Oct. 31.
DOWN MEMORY LANE
During October-December 2026, the series "Down Memory Lane" will offer historical features and archival storytelling for the greater Ada area. Four students--Kaden Arn, Jazmin Zink, Isaac Morrison, and Dylan Blubaugh--will provide items as part of public history coursework at Ohio Northern University.
Stories Posted This Week
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Monday, November 9, 2026
- Charles Thomas Evans, 80, worked for Agricultural Cooperatives
- Jerry Lane Pifer, 69, was a siding contrator
- Ada FFA members compete in Job Interview contest
- Bulldog student-athletes honored by the Blanchard Valley Conference
- Nine Bulldog football players garner All-BVC recognition
- Friends of the library host book raffle
- Local artist hosting a watercolor class at the Ada Public Library
- Beatitudes plans Thanksgiving & Veterans feast