The surroundings were different — indoors at U.S. Bank Stadium vs. outside at TCF Bank Stadium — but the circumstances were very familiar.

Minneota leaned on its experience in big games to roll over Mayer Lutheran 54-21 in the Class 1A semifinals. The Vikings qualified for the Prep Bowl for the third time in the last four seasons. They won state titles in 2014 and 2015.

“Experience is just a great thing,” said Minneota senior quarterback Alex Pohlen, a four-year starter for the Vikings. “Just the things I’m able to see now that a first- or second-year starter might not see, it’s huge.”

What Pohlen saw was plenty of space for his offense to do just about anything it wanted. He was the picture of efficiency, passing for four touchdowns all before halftime, as Minneota (13-0) barged its way for 386 first-half yards and a 41-0 halftime lead.

Senior running back Isaac Hennen, who also has Prep Bowl experience on his resume, rushed for 146 yards and two touchdowns on just 11 carries. He added six receptions for 84 yards, had three sacks and intercepted a pass.

“We were just kind of jelling running the ball and throwing the ball,” Minneota coach Chad Johnston said. “Our system is complex enough that, when you don’t see it year-in and year-out, it’s very difficult to prepare for.”

Mayer Lutheran coach Dean Aurich stated it simply: “They really took it to us. You have to give Minneota credit. They were physically better than us today.”

Minneota’s veteran talent proved too much for Mayer Lutheran. The Vikings scored touchdowns on their first five drives, built a 41-point halftime lead and cruised past Mayer Lutheran 54-21 in the Class 1A semifinals Saturday at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Senior running back Isaac Hennen had 230 yards of total offense – 146 rushing and 84 receiving – and scored two touchdowns. Senior quarterback Alex Pohlen passed for 210 yards and four touchdowns for Minneota (13-0).

Minneota will play in the Prep Bowl for the third time in the last four years, where they will face Wabasso. The Vikings won state championships in 2014 and 2015.

Check back later for more on the game.