Carlson finishes second all-time in rushing, but R-P loses state title

Trojans can’t stop Minneapolis North’s efficient offense

MINNEAPOLIS — It was the kind of start any team would want, especially in the state championship.

Rushford-Peterson High School’s Noah Carlson took the second play from scrimmage 74 yards for the touchdown.

And, just before half, he scored again pulling his team within two going into the locker room.

The second half was a different story, however. Minneapolis North scored twice, while the Trojans were shut out and lost 30-14 at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Carlson finished with 27 carries for 161 yards. He also threw a touchdown and caught another. And, oddly enough, accounted for 204 yards, as compared to 199 R-P accumulated as a team.

The senior finished the season with 2,785 rushing yards – the second-highest single-season total ever in Minnesota.

But take out his 74-yarder, and Carlson’s yards per carry dropped to just 3.3. After that first drive, second-ranked Minneapolis North (13-0) did all it could to contain him. 

The ninth-ranked Trojans (12-2) were outgained 360-199, including 245-156 on the ground.

Four running backs carried the ball over 10 times for the Polars, who had 21 first downs as compared to 10 for R-P. 

North’s quarterback was 10-for-13 for 115 yards with two touchdowns and one interception, while R-P QB Landon Skalet was just 1-for-9 for 11 yards with an interception.

It was the first time back at state since 2008 for R-P, which was then coached by Jim Reinhardt. 

During his tenure, the Trojans won state titles in 2002, 2004 and 2006 and finished runners-up in 1989, 1997, 1999. Before consolidation with Peterson, Rushford won a state title, as well, back in 1988.

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