The Maple Grove (MN) varsity football team will face Shakopee (MN) in a neutral playoff game today at 7:30 PM. This matchup is part of the “2024 High School Football Playoff Brackets: MSHSL – Class AAAAAA” tournament.

Shakopee vs Maple Grove Football Game Info:

What: Minnesota High School Football Playoffs
Who: Shakopee vs Maple Grove
When: Friday, November 15, 2024
Time: 4:30 p.m.
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Game preview: Shakopee vs Maple Grove

As the high school football season barrels toward its climax, one matchup has fans buzzing: Shakopee (10-1) versus Maple Grove (12-0). Both teams have proven their prowess on the field, but only one will emerge victorious in this thrilling showdown. Here’s an in-depth look at the game, the stats, and what to expect when these two powerhouse teams meet.

Team Overview and Rankings

• Shakopee (Rank: 13 in Class 3):
  Shakopee boasts an impressive 10-1 record, with a perfect 6-0 at home and a solid 3-1 on the road. The team has been dominant offensively, scoring 368 points this season while allowing 162. Their win percentage of .909 and conference performance (.800) underline their consistency.
• Maple Grove (Rank: 3 in Class 1):
  Maple Grove enters the game undefeated with a 12-0 record, including a flawless 7-0 conference slate. They’ve been explosive offensively, scoring a staggering 516 points while conceding just 109. Their 1.000 win percentage highlights their dominance.

Team Scoring Averages

• Shakopee:
  Known for their strong finishes, Shakopee averages 33.5 points per game, with a notable 9.7 points in the fourth quarter. Their resilience in clutch moments could be crucial in a tight game.
• Maple Grove:
  Maple Grove’s offense is a juggernaut, averaging 43.0 points per game. They dominate early, with 14.0 points in the first quarter and 16.0 in the second, often putting games out of reach by halftime.

Head-to-Head Against Common Opponents

Both teams faced a slate of common opponents, with Maple Grove emerging unscathed (6-0) and Shakopee posting a respectable 4-1 record. A closer look at their performances:

• Eden Prairie:
  Shakopee defeated Eden Prairie 28-7 on September 20. Maple Grove faced the same opponent twice, winning both games convincingly with scores of 34-0.
• Minnetonka:
  Shakopee’s lone loss came against Minnetonka (21-13), while Maple Grove defeated them 31-21.
• Edina:
  Both teams defeated Edina by an identical margin (42-12), showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive stability.
• Blaine:
  Maple Grove’s 35-0 shutout over Blaine stands in contrast to Shakopee’s closer 29-20 victory.
• St. Michael-Albertville:
  Maple Grove outshone Shakopee in this matchup as well, winning 56-7 compared to Shakopee’s 42-6 triumph.

Key Factors to Watch

1. Offensive Firepower:
   Maple Grove’s ability to score early and often will test Shakopee’s defense. Shakopee’s late-game scoring ability could keep things interesting if the game remains close.
2. Defensive Prowess:
   Maple Grove’s defense has allowed only 109 points all season, compared to Shakopee’s 162. Their ability to shut down high-powered offenses could be the deciding factor.
3. Momentum and Experience:
   Maple Grove’s perfect record and dominant performances against common opponents give them the edge in terms of momentum. However, Shakopee’s resilience and strong playoff form (3-0) make them a formidable opponent.

Prediction

While both teams are elite, Maple Grove’s undefeated record, high-scoring offense, and stingy defense give them a slight edge. However, Shakopee’s knack for finishing strong means they cannot be counted out. Expect a hard-fought battle that showcases the best of Minnesota high school football.

Final Score Prediction:
Maple Grove 38, Shakopee 24

This game is shaping up to be a classic, with both teams leaving it all on the field. Whether you’re rooting for Shakopee’s grit or Maple Grove’s dominance, this is a matchup you won’t want to miss.