The East Ridge Raptors and Lakeville South Cougars will square off in the third round of the 2023 MSHSL Class AAAAAA Football Tournament on Friday, November 10, 2023 at 7pm ET in St. Michael-Albertville, Minnesota.

What it is: Minnesota High School Football
Matchup: East Ridge Raptors vs. Lakeville South Cougars
Time: Friday Nov 10, 2023, 7pm ET
Game Type: Playoffs
Bracket: 2023 MSHSL AAAAAA Football Tournament
Round: Third Round
Locations: St. Michael-Albertville – Lakeville, MN
Live stream: Watch here

The Raptors enter the playoffs with a 9-1 record, while the Cougars have a 4-6 record. East Ridge is ranked 14th in the division, while Lakeville South is ranked 3rd. In the state rankings, East Ridge is 67th and Lakeville South is 19th.

East Ridge has a balanced offense that averages 24.8 points per game. The Raptors are led by senior quarterback Carter Bern, who has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. Bern also has a solid rushing attack, as he has rushed for over 500 yards and 10 touchdowns.

The Cougars have a high-powered offense that averages 37.3 points per game. Lakeville South is led by senior running back David Flemino, who has rushed for over 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. The Cougars also have a dangerous passing game, led by senior quarterback Matthew Knaup, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Both teams have average defenses. East Ridge has allowed 23.4 points per game this season, while Lakeville South has allowed 28.9 points per game.

This should be a close and competitive game between two evenly matched teams. East Ridge has the more balanced offense, but Lakeville South has the more explosive offense. The Raptors also have a slightly better defense. Ultimately, the game will likely come down to a few key plays.

Prediction: East Ridge Raptors 21, Lakeville South Cougars 17