The Breckenridge Cowboys are set to challenge the Minneota Vikings in the Minnesota Class 1A football state championship game on November 21, 2023. The match will take place at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, where the Cowboys hope to end a 35-year title drought. Breckenridge, with a flawless record of 13-0, faces a formidable opponent in Minneota, the three-time defending champions boasting an impressive streak of 45 consecutive victories.
Head coach Carson Yaggie expressed his gratitude for the team’s dedication: “You couldn’t ask for anything more. It’s a great group of kids who take so much pride in the town and in the community.” The Cowboys last reached the state title game in 1995, finishing as runners-up to Kingsland. Yaggie noted that the current team had the potential to make a deep playoff run, emphasizing the hard work and commitment displayed by the players.
Key Players to Watch
As the championship approaches, three players stand out for Breckenridge. David Erlandson, a 5-foot-10, 200-pound running back, has made a significant impact this season, rushing for 1,871 yards and 24 touchdowns on just 166 attempts. In a recent semifinal match against Murray County Central, he rushed for 123 yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing with 11 tackles. Coach Yaggie highlighted Erlandson’s lifelong passion for the game: “He just plays the game with everything he possibly can.”
Another vital player is Kaden Kappes, a 6-foot, 180-pound quarterback. Kappes has completed 67% of his passes, totaling 1,428 yards and 20 touchdowns with only one interception. Additionally, he has rushed for 735 yards and 11 touchdowns. Yaggie praised Kappes for his decision-making and ability to run effectively when needed. In the semifinal against MCC, he completed 7 of 10 passes, showcasing his versatility.
Finally, Cooper Roberts, a senior wide receiver standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 195 pounds, has established himself as Kappes’ primary target. He has recorded 33 receptions for 658 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 19.9 yards per catch. Roberts’ ability to make big plays will be crucial as the Cowboys seek to secure their first state title since 1988.
Defensive Strengths
Defensively, the Cowboys are bolstered by players like Slette Dahl, a 5-foot-10, 205-pound defensive lineman who has contributed significantly to the team’s success. He recorded 13 tackles in the semifinal win and has a total of 59 tackles this season. Coach Yaggie acknowledged the importance of players who may not always receive recognition: “They are kids who make the biggest difference for us and don’t get a whole lot of glam for it.”
The defensive line also features senior players such as Levi Christensen, with 47 tackles and two sacks, and Kai McDonald, who leads the team with seven sacks and has contributed 35 tackles. Yaggie emphasized their hard work and commitment: “Those kids play so hard and give so much effort. They are just a blast to watch.”
As the Cowboys prepare for this pivotal matchup against a respected opponent, the community of Breckenridge stands united, hoping for a triumphant return to the state championship glory. All eyes will be on them as they step onto the field at U.S. Bank Stadium, ready to fight for their long-awaited title.
