MN high school football state tournament

Hills-Beaver Creek went into Thursday’s 9-Player semifinal knowing that, despite its undefeated record and a season of impressive victories, it was considered an underdog. Its opponent, Mountain Iron-Buhl, had a remarkably similar season. But the Rangers had put up offensive numbers that boggled the mind and demanded attention, averaging 66 points per game, topping 90 once, 80 twice and 70 two other times.

So the Patriots used their platform at U.S. Bank Stadium to state their case. They were just as good, the feeling was. Now they had to prove it.

Which was exactly what they did.

Hills-Beaver Creek took an early lead, expanded that to a 10-point halftime margin, then matched everything Mountain Iron-Buhl did in the second half, emerging with a 26-20 victory and a berth in the Prep Bowl on Nov. 23.

For more on the Patriots' victory, click here to read this story on startribune.com.