MINNEAPOLIS — Friday’s 6A Prep Bowl between undefeated Maple Grove and 10-2 Minnetonka will be a rematch of an October 31-21 come-from-behind-win from the Crimson.
"They kind of took it to us and drove right down the field on us," said Maple Grove head coach Adam Spurrell.
In that October matchup, Minnetonka led by 14 in the first half.
"Maple Grove, I look back at that game, and we felt like we could have performed better and had a chance to win that game," said Minnetonka head coach Mark Esch.
The Crimson enter Friday 12-0 this season, only one win decided by single digits. It’s a dominant group with six seniors committed to FCS programs.
"My parents don't usually get to see me during football season, because I'm always with these guys. They're my family," said Maple Grove senior tight end Nathan Hromadka.
Leading the way is one-thousand-yard rusher and North Dakota commit Chuck Langama.
The Skippers also bring a potent attack into Friday’s matchup, led by dual-threat QB Caleb Francois who’s rushed for over 1500 yards this season.
"Definitely need to get eyes on him, getting enough hats there ready to tackle him," said Spurrell.
A State Championship on the line, both teams cannot wait for Friday's round two.
"It would mean the world. Everything," said Minnetonka junior QB Caleb Francois.
"It would be super special for this school and to be back on the map," said Esch.
"Solidifying who Maple Grove is and where we're at, I think putting another ring on our finger would help," said Spurrell.
The Crimson seeking their second state championship in the last three seasons, meanwhile the Skippers looking for their first state title since 2004.