Empire wins shootout with Waurika to secure home stgate playoff game

The Empire Bulldogs mounted a massive second-half comeback, erasing an 18-point halftime deficit to defeat the Waurika Eagles 68-54 in a high-scoring football contest on Friday night. 

The win secured Empire the No. 2 spot in the district and a first-round home playoff game.

Waurika led 42-24 at the intermission, but Empire’s offense exploded after the break to secure the victory.

Bulldogs quarterback Bryce Shaver led the charge, delivering a stellar performance through the air. Shaver completed 23 of 36 passes for 319 yards and threw six touchdowns. He also contributed on the ground with 12 carries for 46 yards and two rushing touchdowns, accounting for eight total scores.

Running back Francisco Garcia anchored the ground game for Empire, carrying the ball 23 times for 162 yards and one touchdown.

Shaver spread the ball effectively among his receivers:

n Francisco Garcia caught five passes for 115 yards and three touchdowns.

n Cale Porter had a game-high 10 receptions for 104 yards and two touchdowns.

n Johnny McNair hauled in a 54-yard touchdown catch on his only reception.

n Bayleen Jackson added six catches for 14 yards, while Bailor Blair (one catch, 15 yards) and Cutter Rochell (one catch, seven yards) also contributed.

The Bulldogs (10-2) will now prepare to host Pond Creek-Hunter (7-3)  in the first round of the state playoffs. The game is scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. in Empire.

The winner will take on teh winner of the Yale  (6-3) and Keota (3-6)  game.