Bishop Kelley eliminates two-time runner-up McAlester in opening round of Oklahoma Class 5A playoffs

Comets' defense comes through with 36-21 win in 5A opening round

Bishop Kelley used its defense to get out to a quick, early lead in its Class 5A postseason opener. 

The Comets then preserved the win with some more sterling defensive plays as they defeated McAlester - the two-time defending 5A state runner-up - 36-21 on Friday in Tulsa.

Bishop Kelley defensive end Sam Rhoades played a pivotal role at the outset as he recovered two fumbles, setting up a 14-0 lead. His first recovery set up the opening touchdown, while Rhoades' second recovery went for another TD.

The Comets (9-2) later built a 21-0 advantage and also was up, 28-7, at halftime.

McAlester (6-5) made things interesting in the second half. The Buffs got a TD pass from Caden Lesnau to Malachi Wrice, along with a 12-yard TD run from Ethan Watkins, closing to within seven, 28-21, with 8:30 remaining in the game.

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However, Bishop Kelley answered moments later with a TD on the ensuing drive to go back up by double digits, 34-21. BK's defense then did the rest, getting a safety along with a pair of interceptions from Gavin Nichols.

With the win, the Comets advance to next week's 5A quarterfinals with a home game against Bishop McGuinness. The two teams faced off on Sept. 8, with Bishop Kelley claiming a 24-7 win.

In other 5A quarterfinal action next week, defending 5A champion Midwest City Carl Albert faces Collinsville - which beat Coweta on a late field goal in its opening-round game Friday - while Del City faces Guthrie and Elgin takes on Claremore, which outlasted Sapulpa on Friday, 48-47.

Photo by Bishop Kelley Athletics' Facebook page

-- Buck Ringgold | buck@scorebooklive.com | @SBLiveOK