Minnesota’s high school football state tournament brackets released

The crisp November air carries the anticipation of playoff football across Minnesota this week, as brackets for the state tournament have been released, signaling the start of a high-stakes competition for teams across Classes 5A to Nine-Player. Among those vying for a championship is Cretin-Derham Hall, securing a top seed after a decisive victory over Mahtomedi in the Section 4AAAAA championship game, marking another chapter in the storied tradition of Minnesota high school football. The Minnesota State High School League’s announcement on Saturday sets the stage for a series of compelling matchups, culminating in the Prep Bowl at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Tournament Release and Qualifying Teams

The Minnesota State High School League on Saturday revealed the brackets for the football state tournament, spanning Classes 5A through Nine-Player. Forty-eight teams earned their place in the tournament after winning their respective sections, a testament to dedication and hard work throughout the season. Class 6A operates uniquely, commencing with a seeded bracket of 32 teams rather than section playoffs. The state quarterfinals are slated to begin on Thursday at various neutral sites across the state, with the semifinals and Prep Bowl scheduled for November 19-21 and November 27-28, respectively, at U.S. Bank Stadium. Tickets for these high-profile games are priced at $18 for adults and $12 for students. A full list of section champions can be found here.

Among the top seeds in their respective classes are Cretin-Derham Hall (Class 5A), Orono and Byron (Class 4A), Pierz and Waseca (Class 3A), Aitkin and Caledonia (Class 2A), Upsala/Swanville and Minneota (Class 1A), and Hills-Beaver Creek and Kittson County Central (Nine-Player). The selection of these top seeds underscores the strength of their seasons, but also highlights the challenges that lie ahead as they navigate a field of formidable opponents. These teams represent communities throughout Minnesota, demonstrating the unifying power of high school athletics.

Cretin-Derham Hall Secures Top Seed

The Cretin-Derham Hall team’s victory over Mahtomedi (14-7) solidified their position, with Gavin Russell completing 20 of 28 passes for 242 yards and a touchdown, and De’mandre Frierson-Hollie contributing both a receiving and passing touchdown. Frierson-Hollie finished the night with 10 catches for 147 yards. Shaheed Suggs also proved instrumental for the Raiders, recording eight receptions for 96 yards. KSTP Sports provided highlights of the game, capturing the intensity and excitement of the playoff atmosphere.

Must-See Matchups

The tournament promises a series of captivating contests, with several matchups drawing particular attention. In Class 5A, Hastings (9-1) faces Mankato West (10-0) on November 14 at Park Center, with a 1 p.m. start time. The Hastings star running back, Zack Shatek – a Gophers commit – has amassed an impressive 2,610 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns this season. Conversely, Mankato West’s quarterback, Osborne Lorenz, continues a legacy of exceptional signal callers for his team, having already passed for 1,388 yards and 13 touchdowns while also rushing for 1,053 yards and 23 touchdowns. This clash of offensive powerhouses is expected to be a defining moment in the tournament.

In Class 4A, Hill-Murray (9-1) will challenge Willmar (10-0) on Thursday at Blaine, commencing at 6 p.m. The game promises an explosive display of offensive prowess, with Hill-Murray leading Class 4A in scoring at 46.7 points per game and Willmar ranking third at 43.9 points per game. For those who enjoy high-scoring affairs, this matchup is guaranteed to deliver excitement. The USA TODAY Network highlighted this contest as a key matchup to watch.

Other Key Games

The Class 3A matchup between Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton (10-0) and Annandale (10-0) at Alexandria on Friday at 6 p.m. is billed as a championship preview, pitting the top two teams in the final state media poll against each other. Defending champion Annandale looks to continue its dominance, while Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton aims to disrupt their reign. In Class 1A, Mayer Lutheran (9-1) will face Minneota (10-0) on Friday at Southwest MN State, with a 7 p.m. kickoff. This encounter carries significant historical weight, as Mayer Lutheran previously defeated Minneota 20-14 in their only prior championship meeting in 2021. While Minneota boasts an impressive four-year championship streak and a remarkable 56-game winning run, they have appeared vulnerable recently, adding intrigue to this potential upset.

Katherine's Take

The release of these brackets underscores a truth about high school football in Minnesota: it’s more than just a game. It’s a source of immense pride for communities, a chance for young men to showcase their dedication and teamwork, and often, a defining moment in their formative years. The stories unfolding on the field reflect the values we hold dear—commitment, perseverance, and striving for excellence. While the statistics – rushing yards and passing touchdowns – are certainly captivating, it’s the character built through these experiences that truly resonates.

The upcoming games present opportunities for young men to demonstrate not just athletic skill but also leadership and sportsmanship. The clash between Hastings and Mankato West is a prime example; two teams with exceptional talent and driven athletes. It’s encouraging to see young men embracing the responsibility of representing their schools and communities with integrity. As these teams advance, let us remember that the true measure of success lies not only in victories but also in the character they display both on and off the field.

The vulnerability that Minneota has shown this year is a reminder that even consistent excellence doesn’t guarantee success. It emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability, qualities essential for navigating life’s challenges beyond the gridiron. These young men are learning valuable lessons about teamwork, discipline, and overcoming adversity—lessons that will serve them well long after their playing days are over. And let's hope these young men learn the value of strong family support – a stable home base is critical for any athlete’s development.

Community Impact

The state football tournament has a profound impact on communities across Minnesota. The games provide a focal point for local pride and unity, bringing families and friends together to support their teams. The economic benefits are also significant, with increased spending at local businesses and hotels as fans travel to attend games. Beyond the immediate financial gains, the tournament fosters a sense of community spirit and reinforces the importance of supporting young athletes and their endeavors. The success of these teams reflects positively on the entire community, inspiring future generations to pursue their own dreams.

The participation of Cretin-Derham Hall, a school deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, underscores the role that faith-based institutions play in shaping young men’s character and values. The dedication and discipline instilled through religious education often translate to success on the field and in life. Similarly, the involvement of smaller schools like Upsala/Swanville and Hills-Beaver Creek highlights the strength of rural communities and the enduring appeal of high school sports as a unifying force.

Resources

For those seeking more information about the Minnesota State High School League football tournament, several resources are available. The Minnesota State High School League website provides comprehensive bracket information, schedules, and results. Local news outlets such as the Star Tribune and KSTP offer in-depth coverage of the tournament, including game highlights and player profiles. Fans can also follow the tournament on social media using the hashtag #MSHSLFootball.

What's Next

The quarterfinals kick off this Thursday, setting the stage for a thrilling two weeks of playoff football. As teams battle for a spot in the semifinals and ultimately the Prep Bowl at U.S. Bank Stadium, the excitement will continue to build throughout Minnesota. The games promise not only high-level competition but also a showcase of the talent and dedication that define Minnesota high school football.

While the focus is currently on the tournament, it’s important to remember the broader context of high school athletics. The lessons learned on the field—discipline, teamwork, leadership—extend far beyond the game itself. These experiences shape young men into responsible citizens and contribute to the overall health and vitality of our communities. As we celebrate their accomplishments, let us also reaffirm our commitment to supporting all student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence.