The Spartans opened the game with an impressive drive, rushing on seven consecutive plays before completing their first pass of the night. Cael Claibourn connected with Talon Kirk for a 19-yard touchdown, Kirk’s third receiving score of the season. Emporia converted the two-point attempt to take an early 8-0 lead.
Topeka answered after an Emporia fumble gave the Trojans possession deep in Spartan territory, allowing them to tie the game. The Trojans then took a 16-8 lead by returning a blocked punt for a touchdown, carrying that advantage into halftime.
The Black and Red responded with two touchdowns in the third quarter to reclaim the lead. Benn Collins broke free for a 44-yard touchdown run before Claibourn added a one-yard quarterback sneak into the end zone. Emporia converted both two-point attempts to move ahead 24-16.
Topeka refused to go away, putting together a 98-yard scoring drive with just over two minutes remaining. The Trojans converted two fourth-down plays along the way to reach the end zone, cutting the deficit to two points.
However, the Trojans could not complete the comeback. On the ensuing two-point conversion attempt, Terrick Franklin broke into the backfield and stopped the ball carrier short, preserving Emporia’s 24-22 lead.
The victory sends the Spartans into the postseason with momentum and a milestone win over a Centennial League opponent.
Emporia will host its first playoff game since 2019 next Friday as the No. 8 seed and sits at 4-4 (1-3). The Spartans’ exact matchup is scheduled to be announced Saturday.
