St. Michael-Albertville Explodes in Fourth Quarter for Victory

St. Michael-Albertville finished the season on a high note, and answered a lot of questions about its offense Wednseday night, rolling to a 42-20 win at Elk River. 

The Knights, who had scored just 42 points in its last three games (all wins), didn't need to rely on its defense Wednesday, as the team pulled away in the fourth quarter, moments after the Elks had cut a 21-12 lead to 21-20.

"Some days the offense is going to have to pick up your defense," said St. Michael-Albertville coach Jared Essler earlier in the season. "Some days our defense will lead the way. The key is getting a complete game."

This looked like the most complete game for the Knights, who were able to pick apart the Elks through the air, using another touchdown completion from Cole Krutzig to Mike Weise for a big score. 

But it was the ground game–which has been hurting–getting a fresh push from a healed up Ryan Lyzhoft, who had been nursing an injury. 

Lyshoft went off for 174 yards, and owned the fourth quarter with three touchdowns, two from more than 40 yards out. 

Krutzig has also found his groove on the ground, scoring on two separate runs, giving him four rushing touchdowns in the last two games. 

The Knights, who finish 5-2, will most likely be seeded third in Section 5-5A, according to the QRF Rankings. 

St. Michael-Albertville, No. 18 in the state in 5A  would open with a home playoff game Tuesday, Oct. 25 at the Middle School West stadium. The likely opponent is Maple Grove.

Wayzata, the No. 1 team in Minnesota, will be the section's top seed. Osseo, aslo 5-2, will be second, with Champlin Park at 4-4 in the No. 4 spot.

For a complete game recap, check out the Elk River Star News' account.