Maple Grove, ranked second in Class 6A, took full advantage of six Centennial turnovers to earn a 32-13 victory in a game that showed the Crimson doesn’t always need a big rushing night to win.

Turning miscues into 26 points, the Crimson offense got the yardage they needed from their rushers in a game that featured the top two teams in the Northwest Suburban Conference.

The game started as a defensive battle but quickly turned into a one-sided affair as Maple Grove capitalized on short fields and a tired Cougar defense for most of the night.

At halftime, it looked as though Centennial was going keep the game close as it scored two consecutive touchdowns to end the half and steal the momentum. 

Neither team’s offense moved the ball with ease, but in the end it was the Maple Grove defense that made the big plays.

Recap: The Maple Grove defense carried the undefeated Crimson to its sixth victory of the season. Centennial committed six turnovers, including a fumble that Maple Grove linebacker Peder Olson returned 14 yards for a touchdown early in the second quarter. Passing what looks to be their last truly tough test before the postseason, Maple Grove coach Matt Lombardi’s team is now counting down the days to tournament play.

Key of the game: After scoring their fourth touchdown, Maple Grove took advantage of a high, mishandled kick return, recovering the ball inside the Centennial 35. The Crimson then drove the ball in for another score, putting the game out of reach.

Quote: “I haven’t had a touchdown since sophomore year. I just couldn’t believe that I had scored a touchdown. … Our running game wasn’t there, so our defense knew we had to step up this game.” — Maple Grove senior Linebacker Peder Olson said of his second quarter recovery.

One thing to know: Averaging more than 250 yards per game on the ground coming into the night, the Maple Grove rushing attack was held in check for most of the game. The ground attack came through when it mattered most, though, adding a pair of touchdowns to help seal the victory and grind out the clock late.

DAVID HOUFEK