When I was envisioning our opening game, I can honestly say I didn’t expect/anticipate navigating some of the obstacles that we faced on Thursday evening.  It provided an interesting start and one that will be able to be remembered for years to come.   Thursday night had a forecast that was not looking promising at game time.   Therefore, administration from both schools became proactive in trying to move up the game time to beat the storm.   So instead of a 6 o’clock start time, a message was sent to all to move the game to 4 o’clock.   It was great to see the boys respond to their first adversity of the evening. 

In the first half, we decided to take the ball first in hopes of getting on the scoreboard right away.   It didn’t necessarily work, and defense was drawn with the first test of the year with Osseo starting on our 27 yard line.   The defense responded and forced a fumble on the second play.   Defensively, the guys played well.   The defense was able to force four turnovers in the first half.   We were able to get fumble recoveries by Kevin Toe and Ethan Berry.   Ethan was able to scoop and score for a 13 yard recovery.   It looked incredibly similar to what the guys do during 2 a days during our “wake up drill”.  As a defense, we were also able to get 2 interceptions by Ryder Skanson.   Ryder nearly had a pick 6, but a penalty negated this score.   All in all, the defense had a great night and showed a lot of team speed.  Next week, the defense will need to be as dominant to have success against a good Rebel offense.

After the first drive, the offense found the end zone on the next 6 possessions.  As an offense, we were able to use our playmakers and put them in position to have success.   Chuck Langama was able to fight for extra yards numerous times.  Our line faced a good test in Osseo’s defense and learned to trust their job after watching film.  Kaden Harney was efficient in completing 8 of his 10 passes.  He threw for 185 yards and 2 touchdowns.   He was able to extend the play several times and found his receiver.   Passing game was highlighted by Dylan Vokal’s 5 catches for 140 yards.  He was able to find the end zone twice.  I can’t wait to watch the offense show growth from week 1 to week 2 as they’ll go up against a good Champlin Park team. 

Special teams played decently well besides a couple minor mistakes that were addressed in film.  Kicks were executed well by Sievers, Berg and Knutson.   Coverage was great with guys flying down the field.   A couple highlight tackles were provided by Jeff Nordvold and Drake Wegscheid.   We learned to keep our head on a swivel as well.   This phase of the game will not be overlooked, and we will look to dominate this part of the game each week.

I want to thank everyone for their continued support of our program.  There is an awesome energy around the program right now and it is because of everyone involved.   I want to encourage everyone to keep all this momentum going forward.   This group has high aspirations and expectations, and it will take everyone involved to achieve this goal.   I can’t wait to watch our fan base fill our Crimson Stadium on Friday night as we take on the Champlin Park Rebels.  It will be youth night which always adds extra excitement.   I know we would love to have an absolutely packed home side of our stadium.   LEAVE NO DOUBT!