Defending Champ Cameron Yoe Rallies to Avoid Upset from Malakoff, 45-44

WACO -- Malakoff had the three-time defending state champs on the ropes, but Cameron Yoe pulled off a 'Rocky'-esque comeback to take a dramatic win Friday night.

The Yoemen rallied from 25 points down and intercepted a potential game-winning two-point conversion to beat upset-minded Malakoff, 45-44, in a Class 3A Division I area playoff.

The win was Cameron Yoe's (11-1) 19th consecutive in the playoffs. The Yoemen have won three state titles in a row.

Cameron Yoe plays Grandview at 1 p.m. Friday at Waco ISD Stadium in the third round, while Malakoff ended its season with a 10-2 record.

Traion Smith's 1-yard touchdown run put Cameron Yoe on top, 45-38, late in the fourth quarter for the Yoemen's first lead sine the first quarter. Malakoff led by as much as 32-7 in the game.

But Malakoff struck back fast. Q.T. Barker returned the ensuing kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown to make the score 45-44. Both teams were penalized, leaving Malakoff with a decision to go for two and the potential win.

The Tigers ran a wide receiver pass, but Smith saved the day, intercepting Jake Wolverton in the end zone to seal the win.

Smith rushed 21 times for 187 yards and two touchdowns, and even recovered the Tigers' onside kick to seal the win after Barker's touchdown.

Barker also returned an interception 45 yards for a touchdown in Malakoff's loss.