Commerce bulls way to 2-point conversion, OT win

ATHENS -- Commerce knew they had the momentum, and they wanted to make the most of it.

The Tigers did just that on Friday, opting for a 2-point conversion that sealed a 22-21 win in overtime over Athens Christian in Athens.

Chance McClure fought his way into the end zone behind Commerce's "Elephant" set, lunging to the winning conversion behind two extra offensive linemen.

McClure had scored on a three-yard run in overtime to set up the winning play -- which yielded the Tigers' second straight win and kept Commerce perfect in Region 8-A.

The Tigers (4-2, 2-0 Region 8-A) battled back and forth with Athens Christian throughout, scoring first on an 11-yard run by Jamir Walton in the first quarter.

Athens Christian fired right back on a 92-yard kickoff return and finally took a 14-7 lead with 8:24 remaining.

But Commerce broke a two-quarter-plus scoring drought with just 1:20 remaining when quarterback Caleb Brooks capped a 44-yard, eight-play drive to send the contest into overtime on a two-yard touchdown run.

Athens Christian pulled ahead in the extra frame, but McClure wouldn't be denied, twice crossing the goal line.

Walton led Commerce's ground game with 87 yards on 19 carries. Brooks also rushed for 79 yards and McClure 54, as Commerce put up 225 total yards.

Tyreke Wiggins also paced the Tigers defense with 10 tackles.

Commerce will play host to Prince Avenue Christian next Friday.