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Class 5A preview: Wayzata vs. Eden Prairie

By Star Tribune, 11/24/11, 9:31PM CST

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Running back Andrew Larson (28) leads Eden Prairie into the Class 5A football final against Wayzata at 7 p.m. Friday at the Metrodome.

Wayzata: The defending state champions are poised to repeat thanks to double the talent in key areas. On the offensive line, Ben Lauer is back from a knee injury and Louisiana transfer Chandler Wright mauls defenders. RB Mitch Underhill missed most of the season because of an injury, but fast Erik Roti and physical Antonio Ford are excelling in their roles. Injury could play a role in effectiveness of the Trojans defense. All-Metro first-team LB Ryan Poppitz took part in 13 tackles as Wayzata defeated Eden Prairie 9-0 in the regular-season finale but suffered a season-ending injury in the playoffs.

Eden Prairie: The Eagles offensive line comes off the ball well, plays a physical style and finishes blocks -- even without injured All-Metro first-team offensive lineman Nick Davidson. Speaking of health, RB Andrew Larson is finally at full strength and it shows. Larson, also on the All-Metro first team, gutted Totino-Grace for 138 yards and four touchdowns in the first half alone. Defensively, the Eagles held Wayzata to three field goals in their regular-season meeting. The unit is lead by athletic playmakers such as LBs Drake Michaelson and Jack Cottrell and DL Tyson Reinke.

The difference-maker: While both defenses, offensive lines and running games are strong, Wayzata QB Nick Martin gives his team a proven senior playmaker at the position.

David says: Wayzata wrestled the heavyweight title from Eden Prairie and outpaced the state with a versatile offense and an undersized but aggressive and sound defense. Until the Eagles close the gap offensively, Wayzata will prevail.

Wayzata 20, Eden Prairie 7

Jim says: While it's difficult to pick against Wayzata considering how the Trojans are playing right now, Eden Prairie looked hungry and motivated in routing Totino-Grace in the semifinals. In hoping for a good game, I see the Eagles pulling out a close one.

Eden Prairie 20, Wayzata 17

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