Using precision execution of their running game and a solid defensive effort, the Trojans ran away from Hico 56-7 at Trojan Field.

The victory for Troy, now 8-1 overall and 5-1 in league play, sets up a showdown at unbeaten McGregor (9-0, 6-0) for the district title next Friday. McGregor blasted Clifton 40-7. Regardless of that outcome, the Trojans assured themselves of a Class 2A Division I playoff spot and will meet ninth-ranked Godley (9-0) in bi-district in two weeks.

"Our kids executed well," said Troy coach Grady Rowe, whose has reached the playoffs five times in six years. "We expected this to be a much closer game. But we jumped on them early and stayed in front."

Cyrus McKenzie was the biggest producer in the Trojans' relentless rushing attack. McKenzie, a junior, piled up 155 yards on 20 carries to go with two touchdowns. Roy Freeman, Trey Collier and Devin Hill all posted strong numbers and scored four touchdowns between them.

"Our line had holes that were perfect," McKenzie said. "All I had to do was break the first line and make a move on the second wave and that was it. They were blitzing a lot."

twaits@temple-telegram.com