Prior Lake cruised to its second victory of the season at Minnetonka on Friday night behind what looks like one of the top defensive fronts in the state. Minnetonka’s running backs couldn’t get separation on the edge or find room to run up the middle. And when quarterback Dan Griep had enough time to deliver a deep ball to an open Amar Miller, it bounced off of the receiver’s hands to force fourth down and lead to a blocked punt by Jamahl Johnson. Prior Lake’s offense found the end zone behind Lawson Zenner’s speed and Johnson’s power as a red-zone rusher. Andrew Owodunni provided one of the game’s highlights, bursting up the middle untouched for a 37-yard touchdown run.

Key of the game: Minnetonka’s offense made costly mistakes. Prior Lake’s defense was disruptive, but the Skippers inexplicably fumbled five times in their own territory. Those missteps resulted in three turnovers and 10 easy points for Prior Lake’s offense, which was already driving down the field nicely.

Quote: “Turnovers set up our offense for the whole game, so I feel like without those turnovers we wouldn’t have scored as many points as we did,” Johnson said. “[We have] one of the best defensive units in the state.” 

One thing to know: Prior Lake’s offense is unorthodox – and effective. The Lakers load up the line with extra tight ends and backs, leaving just one receiver situated out wide. The result is an intriguing mix of option run plays and deep passes where receivers are left in single coverage.

JACK SATZINGER

After eking out an 8-6 victory last week at Champlin Park, Minnetonka's offense struggled to produce for the second consecutive week against Prior Lake's imposing defensive front. The Lakers jumped out to a 31-0 halftime lead en route to a 38-0 victory over the Skippers.

Jamahl Johnson lived up to his billing as one of the state's top defensive players, forcing and recovering a fumble while also blocking a punt. The defensive lineman proved to be an offensive weapon in the red zone, rushing for two touchdowns as well.

The Lakers' offense was largely powered by running backs Lawson Zenner and Andrew Owodunni. Zenner scurried down the left sideline for a 43-yard receiving touchdown while Owodunni ran with power for two touchdowns of his own.

Check back later for more on the game.