The North Branch Vikings and the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights will square off in a David vs. Goliath matchup in the first round of the 2023 Minnesota High School Football Playoffs on Thursday, November 9th at 7:00pm ET at Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School in St. Louis Park, Minnesota.
What it is: Minnesota High School Football
Matchup: North Branch Vikings vs. Benilde-St. Margaret’s Red Knights
Time: Thursday Nov 09, 2023, 7:00pm ET
Game Type: Playoffs
Bracket: 2023 MSHSL Class AAAA State Football Championships
Round: First Round
Locations: Benilde-St. Margaret’s – St. Louis Park, MN
Live stream: Watch here
The Vikings enter the playoffs as the 49th ranked team in the nation and the 6th ranked team in Minnesota. They are led by a balanced offense that averages 37.4 points per game. Quarterback Jacob Robillard is a dual-threat who can both pass and run, and running back Carter Drill is one of the most productive rushers in the state.
The Red Knights enter the playoffs as the 132nd ranked team in the nation and the 22nd ranked team in Minnesota. They are struggling this season, having lost six of their last seven games. They are led by a balanced offense that averages 26.7 points per game. Quarterback (none) is a dual-threat who can both pass and run, and running back (none) is one of the most productive rushers in the state.
This matchup is sure to be a mismatch, as the Vikings are the clear favorites. However, the Red Knights are a dangerous team, and they could pull off the upset if they play their best game of the season.
The Vikings will need to be able to establish their running game and control the clock. They will also need to be able to stop the Red Knights’ running game and force their quarterback to beat them with his arm.
The Red Knights will need to be able to contain the Vikings’ passing game and force Robillard to run. They will also need to be able to capitalize on turnovers and score points in the red zone.
This game is sure to be a one-sided affair, but it could still be a competitive game. The Vikings are the clear favorites, but the Red Knights have the potential to pull off the upset.
Fans can watch this game on the NFHS Network on their smartphones, tablets, computers, and connected devices.
