DACULA — Commerce knew it faced a tough task against a rejuvenated Hebron Christian program on Friday. And the Tigers had just enough to fend off the Lions, 29-26, in Dacula.
Commerce finished with 239 yards rushing, including three 1-yard touchdown plunges for Dylan Deaton. Easley Smith also added a 14-yard scoring run.
The Tigers (2-0) also passed for 101 yard, completing 4 of 6 attempts, while Eryck Diaz added a 25-yard field goal.
Commerce needed every single play, as Hebron stayed step-for-step with the Tigers, trailing 12-10 at the half. Deaton's two third quarter scoring runs yielded a 22-12 advantage, but the Lions responded to pull within 22-19 on the first play of the fourth quarter. Hebron also answered Smith's touchdown run with a 60-yard touchdown pass on the first play from scrimmage to make it 29-26. But the Tigers held firm to ensure the win.
Commerce will play host to Lakeview next week.
