The Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa Jaguars and Mayer Lutheran Crusaders will square off in the first round of the 2023 MSHSL Class A State Football Championships on Friday, November 10, 2023 at 7pm ET in Mayer, Minnesota.

What it is: Minnesota High School Football
Matchup: Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa Jaguars vs. Mayer Lutheran Crusaders
Time: Friday Nov 10, 2023, 7pm ET
Game Type: Playoffs
Bracket: 2023 MSHSL Class A State Football Championships
Round: First Round
Locations: Mayer Lutheran – Mayer, MN
Live stream: Watch here

The Jaguars enter the playoffs with a 10-0 record, while the Crusaders have a 9-2 record. Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa is ranked 6th in the division, while Mayer Lutheran is ranked 11th. In the state rankings, Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa is 63rd and Mayer Lutheran is 99th.

The Jaguars have a high-powered offense that averages 41.8 points per game. Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa is led by senior quarterback Isaac Tollefson, who has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 25 touchdowns this season. Tollefson also has a dangerous rushing attack, as he has rushed for over 500 yards and 10 touchdowns.

The Crusaders have a balanced offense that averages 29.5 points per game. Mayer Lutheran is led by senior running back David Miller, who has rushed for over 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. The Crusaders also have a solid passing game, led by senior quarterback Matthew Schuette, who has thrown for over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Both teams have solid defenses. Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa has allowed just 12.3 points per game this season. Mayer Lutheran has been equally impressive on defense, allowing just 13.9 points per game.

This should be a close and competitive game between two evenly matched teams. Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa has the more explosive offense, but Mayer Lutheran has the more balanced attack. The Jaguars also have a slightly better defense. Ultimately, the game will likely come down to a few key plays.

Prediction: Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa Jaguars 28, Mayer Lutheran Crusaders 24