Recap: When Dawson-Boyd’s Hunter Olson knocked away a potential Sleepy Eye St. Mary’s touchdown pass on fourth down in the fourth quarter, it was cause for a defensive celebration. The Blackjacks offense took over at their own 7-yard line, holding a 21-12 lead. Undaunted, quarterback Joey Lee connected on a key third down pass to Kyler Collins and later capped the long drive himself with a 38-yard touchdown run. “There’s no better feeling seeing that much green in front of you,” said Lee, who finished with two touchdowns rushing and two more passing.

Key of the game: Facing third-and 7-from Dawson-Boyd’s 10, Lee hit Collins for a 49-yard gain to shift field possession and build momentum. “Just like that touchdown in the third quarter where Noah [Stelter] stepped up huge, Kyler Collins stepped up huge. That’s what it’s all about,” Lee said.

Quote: “Running into a state championship game — it doesn’t get much better than that.” — Dawson-Boyd quarterback Joey Lee on his clinching 38-yard scoring run in the fourth quarter

One thing to know: Dawson-Boyd, located in southwestern Minnesota near the South Dakota border, returns to the Prep Bowl championship game for the second time in three seasons. The Blackjacks won the 2011 Class 1A title.

DAVID LA VAQUE