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The McKenzie Tigers stormed through the first round of the AHSAA playoffs on Friday, Nov. 8, securing a decisive 50-6 victory over the Keith Bears in front of an energized home crowd.

“I was excited about the way our athletes performed,” said McKenzie Coach Brian Bradford. “Strong offense, defense… it was a complete game. It was also an injury-free game, thankfully, which sets us up well for next week.”

The Tigers took an early lead in the first quarter with a touchdown by Ayden Willsey. Shortly after, Noah Peterson extended the lead with a pick-six, putting McKenzie up 16-0.

The momentum continued in the second quarter when the Tigers blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown, bringing the score to 24-0. Skylar Sanders followed up with a long touchdown reception, and Willsey added another score, making it 36-0.

Just before halftime, Jay Jackson and Malachi Tolbert each hauled in touchdown receptions, widening McKenzie’s lead to 50-0.

Keith managed to get on the board with a touchdown in the third quarter, but it was too little too late. The Bears struggled to make further progress, and the Tigers secured a dominant 50-6 win.

The Tigers will now travel to Millry on Nov. 15 to face the Wildcats in the second round, where they’ll face one of their toughest challenges of the season. Bradford said the Tigers will be ready.

“Millry is a powerhouse,” Bradford said. “They’re always good, so we’re going to have to play our best game.”