Recap: Minneota/Lincoln HI sent a message in the first quarter, going for it on fourth-and-2 at Maple Lake’s 8-yard line and scoring a touchdown. The Vikings went ahead 14-9 and never looked back. In addition the Vikings (13-0) exerting their will, a balanced offense also played a role. Quarterback Austin Buysse went 7-for-11 passing for 104 yards and two scores. Running back Jeff Gladis picked up 171 yards on 18 carries and added a touchdown. The Vikings, ranked No. 4 in the final state football poll, scored touchdowns on four of their five possessions in the first half.

Key of the game: Maple Lake cut Minneota’s lead to 21-16 with a kick return for a score. The Irish then recovered the ensuing onside kick to keep the momentum. But Minneota’s Jordan Beck recovered a fumble and ran the ball to Maple Lake’s 37-yard line. The offense made it count, scoring a touchdown and building a 28-16 halftime lead.

Quote: “Our defense always finds a way to come up big.” — Minneota/Lincoln HI’s Jeff Gladis

One thing to know: The Vikings advance to the Prep Bowl championship game at 1 p.m. on Nov. 29. They won a Class 1A state title in 2009.

DAVID LA VAQUE