Recap: Becker opened the game with two fumbles and a punt on its first three drives, but the offense looked much different as the game progressed to propel the Bulldogs to the state final. Senior quarterback Andrew Stanger  showed the ability to throw the ball deep, connecting with Alex Meidt, a senior receiver, for three touchdowns, including one for 66 yards. Fellow senior Austin Rassmussen returned an interception for a touchdown as Becker topped Stewartville in the semifinal for the second consecutive season.

Key of the game: Becker’s defense didn’t unravel. Stewartville started all three of its first-quarter drives with great field position. But after giving up a first-quarter touchdown, the Bulldogs limited the Tigers to just one fourth-quarter score. Rassmussen and Meidt recorded first-half interceptions, and fellow senior Dillon Radunz anchored a disruptive Becker defensive line.

Quote: “We knew once we got ahead that we were just going to keep pouring it on. They’re a great football team, but they gave us some chances to take some deep shots and we did.” – Andrew Stanger

One thing to know: Stewartville senior running back Jordan Johnson was a force, consistently breaking tackles and tallying two touchdowns. He also was disruptive as a linebacker on defense.

JACK SATZINGER

Becker’s offense couldn’t do much right in the first 12 minutes against Stewartville, fumbling twice and committing sloppy penalties. Then the Bulldogs’ defense held steady and their passing game came alive to put defending champion Becker in the state final once again with a 34-14 victory at Chanhassen High School. 

Stewartville running back Jordan Johnson tallied two touchdowns. But Becker senior Dillon Radunz anchored a stiff defensive line that eventually wore him down and pressured junior quarterback Andrew Quandt.

Becker’s offense was led by senior running back Alex Meidt and senior quarterback Andrew Stanger. They connected for three touchdowns, including a 66-yard Stanger throw to open the second half. Austin Rasmussen, also a senior, intercepted a Quandt pass and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown.

Check back later for more on the game.