MN Football State Championships Previews and Predictions

This year's state tournament has been one of the best in recent memory. From upsets to comebacks, there hasn't been any time to relax as a fan. As we enter into the last week of the season I give my quick picks for the state championships from 9-man all the way to 6A:

9-man:
Hills-Beaver Creek vs. Fertile-Beltrami

Both these teams are led by amazing athletes. For HBC their Quarterback, Jamin Metzger, is a terrific leader and has been able to keep them in every game this year. On the other sideline is star running back Isaiah Wright has been breaking records and taking names. I think Fertile-Beltrami is too much for the opposition to handle. 

1A:
Minneota vs. Springfield

The first game of the day tomorrow is the class 1A matchup. Although these are 2 amazing teams, there is one player that will be on the field that I'll be watching. His name, Ryan Meagher. Ryan is one of the most underrated football players in the state. I see him putting on a show in the AM game and leading his team to a chip. 

2A:
Jackson County Central vs. Staples-Motley

Prior to the semifinals I had Kimball taking it to JCC after it was announced that Roman Voss was out with an injury. 

3A:
Dassel-Cokato vs. Stewartville

DC has been one of the most consistent programs in the state in recent history. With that being said they haven't had to face Stewartville every year. I think Stewartville continues their dominace in the 3A class this season. 

4A:
Totino-Grace vs. Becker

The final remaining undefeated 4A programs seemed to be on a collision course this season. Becker has looked like the better team week by week. They are loaded with a young QB, a massive OL, and athletes galore like Mr. Football finalist Landen Kujawa and track phenom Carter Reckelberg. I can't believe I'm saying this but I want the Eagles in this one. That is under the condition that they are healthy. Last game I didn't notice Saftey Tyler Hand and also noticed 2-way stud Michael Strong left with an injury. As long as they are in I'm in. If not I'll ride the the Bulldogs. 

5A:
Alexandria vs. Elk River

Last season Alexandria was one game away from the chip. This year they avenged their loss only to run into a team that seems to be here every other year. the question is whose offense will give out first. The passing attack led by Clemson Basketball commit Chase Thompson? Or the 3 back attack of Elk River? I think this one will come down to the more physical team and to me its the Elks. 

6A:
Minnetonka vs. Maple Grove

The Big boys of high school football find themselves face to face for a second time this season. Although MG got the best of Tonka in round 1, I expect this one to come down to the wire. The difference to me in this one is the depth of the Crimson. It would be easy to list any of their number of stars, but without their supporters who do the intangibles well such as Patrick Wright, Jack Weigel, and Ethan Berry, they would be in the position they are in now. I'll take Maple Grove to take it home. 

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