Totino-Grace running back Kez Flomo (4) picked his way through the Eden Prairie defense when the teams played in September 2013. Star Tribune photo by Marlin Levison
Totino-Grace has struggled to keep opponents out of the end zone all year but has racked up victories behind strong offensive performances.
The Eagles, however, were unable to continue following that formula when they faced off with Maple Grove last week as the Crimson stifled Totino-Grace's offense in a 28-0 thumping.
The Eagles' defense needs to prove it can step up, especially this week when Totino-Grace (4-1, 1-1) takes on Elk River (5-0, 4-0) and its efficient offense in a Northwest Suburban Conference showdown Friday.
The Elks, ranked No. 5 in the Associated Press' Class 5A poll, have attempted just 14 passes all season and have a plethora of capable runners in the backfield. Five ball carriers have at least 20 carries and 100 rushing yards this season including Zach Ernst, who leads the team with 1,028 rushing yards. The senior running back also has 13 rushing touchdowns.
Elk River has its own problems on defense, giving up 30 points per game in its last four contests. However, the Elks have remained unbeaten thanks to the state's fourth highest scoring offense.
This game has all the makings of a shootout between two strong offenses and is the reason it's our Top Game of the Week.
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