Wednesday night was electric, as the top two teams in Class 6A faced off under the lights at Crimson Stadium. The buildup to this game was incredible, not only was it a matchup of #1 vs. #2, but it was also a rematch of last year’s state championship game. On top of that, our players had to navigate an unusual week that included a morning practice due to parent-teacher conferences, adding another layer of adversity to overcome.

Unfortunately, the game didn’t start the way we hoped. Minnetonka opened with an impressive drive and scored quickly. After a short offensive series on our end, Tonka struck again to take a 14–0 lead at the end of the first quarter, creating some understandable tension among the home crowd.

The best part, though, was how our players responded. They didn’t panic, they trusted the coaches and themselves and settled in. Quarterback Kaden Harney found Josh Thompson for a touchdown to get us on the board. The defense then came up with a key stop, and the offense drove the length of the field before Preston Berg knocked through a short field goal. We went into halftime down 14–10, but with momentum beginning to shift.

At halftime, there was no panic — just focus and confidence. Our players listened to adjustments, trusted the plan, and came out firing. On the opening drive of the second half, Harney scored on a run to give us our first lead of the night. From that moment forward, we took control.

Defensively, we were outstanding in the second half. Ryder Skanson and Beaux Thyen both made big-time plays to shut down Minnetonka’s offense, and the entire unit played with energy and discipline. On the offensive side, James Engle found the end zone twice behind strong blocking from his offensive line, helping seal a 30–14 victory.

After falling behind 14–0, our guys outscored the #2 team in the state with 30 unanswered points. This comeback showed a tremendous display of toughness, composure, and complimentary team football.

It was also a fitting way to celebrate Senior Night. We have 40 seniors, including our senior manager, and it was special to watch each of them share that moment on the field with their parents. The leadership and commitment have set the tone for this program all season long.

Fortunately, Wednesday wasn’t our last night at Crimson Stadium. With this win, we secured the #1 seed in our section and will host two home playoff games. We open postseason play against Eastview, and we’ll take each challenge as it comes.

I’m incredibly proud of this group. Our players and coaches continue to work, compete, and chase our ultimate goal of a state championship. Each week is another opportunity to bond, and I’m excited to watch them continue this journey together.

Leave No Doubt!  Fear The Leaf! Find A Way!

Coach Spurrell