MMCRU is set to make history as it competes for its first-ever IHSAA Class A state title. The unbeaten Royals will face the also undefeated Saint Ansgar team in a highly anticipated championship clash.
Upcoming Championship Game Details
The title match will kick off at 1 p.m. CT on Thursday, November 20, at the UNI-Dome in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Both teams boast impressive undefeated records, with MMCRU holding the #1 seed and a perfect 12-0 mark, while Saint Ansgar stands at 12-0 as the #2 seed.
Path to the Championship
MMCRU has shown remarkable dominance in this year’s playoffs, scoring a total of 143 points and shutting out several opponents. In their semifinal, the Royals defeated West Sioux with a decisive 28-0 scoreline. Quarterback Eli Harpenau played a pivotal role, throwing for 202 yards and contributing four scores. He also achieved 37 touchdown passes during the season.
- Quarterback: Eli Harpenau
- Key receiver: Michael Schmillen (three TDs in semifinal)
- Top running back: Brayson Mulder (695 yards, 7 TDs)
On the defensive end, MMCRU’s players have been relentless. They have recovered 15 fumbles and recorded 27 interceptions, with senior linebacker Wyatt Alesch leading with six interceptions. This defensive prowess has set a strong foundation for the Royals’ title run.
Saints’ Championship Run
Saint Ansgar’s journey to the championship has been equally impressive. They have rushed for over 5,000 yards this season, with senior running back Korben Michels leading the charge with 1,497 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. Quarterback Porter Schwieso has thrown for nearly 1,000 yards, securing 14 touchdown passes.
- Key player: Korben Michels
- Passing leader: Porter Schwieso
- Special teams: Connor Mullenbach (punting average over 10 yards)
Defensively, Saint Ansgar stands out with a total of 571 tackles and ranks second in sacks with 36, showcasing their well-rounded team strength.
Key Matchups and Implications
The matchup between MMCRU’s passing attack and Saint Ansgar’s ground game will be central to the game’s outcome. Control of the line of scrimmage will be vital, with both teams needing to execute effectively to secure victory.
Defensive Strategies
Both teams have elite defenses, with MMCRU excelling in turnover generation while Saint Ansgar maintains a high tackle volume and sack production. The ability to force turnovers will likely dictate who claims the Class A supremacy at the end of this contest.
Special Teams Impact
Special teams can greatly influence field position. The returning capabilities of players like Gabe Johnson from MMCRU and Mullenbach from Saint Ansgar will be worth watching throughout the game.
Final Thoughts
As the game approaches, questions linger. Can MMCRU’s defensive line contain Michels and thwart the Saint Ansgar rushing attack? Will Harpenau manage to navigate and evade the Saints’ tough secondary? The weather conditions in Cedar Falls could also be a crucial factor, particularly for MMCRU’s aerial game.
This championship not only stands as a triumph pursuit for MMCRU in their first-ever appearance in a Class A title match but also as Saint Ansgar seeks to capture their second state title. The game promises to be an exhilarating clash between two undefeated teams, each aiming for glory.
