Wayzata, football
Standing on the synthetic turf at St. Cloud State's Husky Stadium on Saturday, the senior running back was saying all of the right things after the Trojans' 49-14 victory over Moorhead.
"I was just trying to do my job," Ford said. "We knew Moorhead was a great team. I have to give all of the credit to my offensive line."
While Ford's words were humble, the perma-grin on his face gave away that he had just led his No. 1-ranked team to a state-tournament victory.
He rushed 18 times for 249 yards, including runs of 90 yards for a touchdown and 70 yards before being caught at the 5-yard line. He also caught a 23-yard touchdown pass.
"This is just the greatest feeling I've had," said Ford, who played at Coon Rapids until his parents moved into the Wayzata school district in the offseason. "To come to a team like this and be able to contribute like that is unbelievable."
Wayzata coach Brad Anderson said Ford's big game was not only welcome, but a necessity.
"With Erik [Roti] out, we needed Antonio to step up and be the main ball carrier," Anderson said. "And he was able to do that. He always gives us a nice physical presence to our offense, but he showed a little speed, too."