The McKenzie Tigers beat Providence Christian 48-41 behind the strength of three rushing touchdowns by quarterback Sattrick Rudolph and two scores by running back Elrick Ball Friday night.

The Tigers improved to 3-5 on the season and can clinch a berth in the Class 1A state playoffs with a victory over Florala at home next Friday night.

&#8220This win was monumental for our program,” said head coach Miles Brown. &#8220This was the shot in the arm that our kids needed. This game next week (against Florala) is the biggest in our kids' football career. I want to encourage all of our fans to come out and support us on Friday night and come with the right attitude.”

McKenzie led PCHS 34-21 at halftime. Jarrell Mobley had a 2-yard touchdown run, while Rudolph scored on a 30-yard run.

The senior QB also passed to Calvin Henderson for a 19-yard touchdown pass as time expired in the first half.

Ball added a pair of touchdowns (2-yards, 6-yards) in the first two quarters of play.

Rudolph added a 1-yard scoring sneak in the third quarter and a 21-yard scamper for a touchdown in the fourth.

Brown praised the play of Thomas Johnson who was able to corral several onsides kicks by Providence Christian.

&#8220Thomas came up big on our special teams,” he said.

The Tigers never punted in the game, said Brown.

Ball led the defensive effort with 17 tackles. Rudolph had 14 and eighth grader Emanuel Johnson had 10 stops.

Freddy Backs added seven tackles, while Henderson and Armond Ball each had six.