Mieeoys breezes past Mayer Lutheran 54-21 in 1A semifinalsks

The surroundings were different — indoors at U.S. Bank Stadium vs. outside at TCF Bank Stadium — but the circumstances were very familiar.

Minneota leaned on its experience in big games to roll over Mayer Lutheran 54-21 in the Class 1A semifinals.

The Vikings qualified for the Prep Bowl for the third time in the past four seasons. They won state titles in 2014 and 2015.

"Experience is just a great thing," said Minneota senior quarterback Alex Pohlen, a four-year starter for the Vikings. "Just the things I'm able to see now that a first- or second-year starter might not see, it's huge."

What Pohlen saw was plenty of space for his offense to do just about anything it wanted. He was the picture of efficiency, passing for four touchdowns, all before halftime, as Minneota (13-0) barged its way to 386 first-half yards and a 41-0 halftime lead.

Senior running back Isaac Hennen, who also has Prep Bowl experience on his résumé, rushed for 146 yards and two touchdowns on only 11 carries. He added six receptions for 84 yards, made three sacks and intercepted a pass.

"We were just kind of jelling running the ball and throwing the ball," Minneota coach Chad Johnston said. "Our system is complex enough that, when you don't see it year in and year out, it's very difficult to prepare for."