In a game where both teams’ offenses were firing on all cylinders, Madison’s defense made the stop that mattered, as Madison held on to win 55-53 over Life Oak Cliff Thursday night at Forester Stadium.

Late in the 4th quarter running back Michael Steele scored on a 22-yard to give Madison (3-4, 3-2 in District 7-3A Division I) a 55-45 with 2:21 left to play, appearing to ice the game. Life Oak Cliff’s CJ Stroops returned the ensuing kickoff 80 yards for a touchdown. Following a successful 2-point conversion, Life Oak Cliff (2-6, 2-4) recovered an onside kick and drove all the way down to Madison’s one yard line. On the final play of the game Madison’s defense came up with the game-saving stop.

Torey Long led Madison on the ground with 155 yards and two touchdowns on 23 carries, while Steele ended the night with 87 yards with two scores. Madison receiver Darious Johnson had a big night as well, piling up 117 yards with two touchdowns on five catches.

Leading the way for Life Oak Cliff, Eldrick Jordan piled up 444 total yards of offense with six total touchdowns. Brandon Clark had 116 yards and two touchdowns on five catches. Brayden Fucuals added 115 yards on six catches.