Osseo 17, Andover 6

Though their high-scoring offense was hindered by windy conditions, the Orioles won their first conference title since 1989.

By David La Vaque, Star Tribune

Last update: October 17, 2007 - 11:00 PM

Black T-shirts marking Osseo's Northwest Suburban Conference championship season waited as players stripped off their shoulder pads and sprinted toward the tables full of apparel Wednesday night.

The Orioles (7-1) used a powerful ground attack to beat Andover 17-6 and win its first conference title since 1989, when they played in the now-defunct Lake Red Conference.

Wet, windy conditions and an injury to wide receiver Ryan Spading grounded Osseo's high-flying offense, a unit that averaged 41.7 points through the first seven games this season.

First half touchdown runs from running back Marcus Sims and quarterback Tate Christopherson gave the team a 14-0 lead.

"That's probably the most running plays I've called in my life," coach Derrin Lamker said.

Osseo's first five plays were handoffs to Sims, who gained 34 yards. Christopherson took it from there. He faked a handoff and a pitch then broke three tackles for a 30-yard touchdown.

"I just saw a little daylight and took off," he said.

Overshadowed in recent weeks was an Orioles' defense that yielded only two touchdowns the past two games. Andover (5-3) managed 70 first half yards.

Wide receiver/safety Dan Brown said the unit "has stepped up and played with heart" the past few games as the goal of winning a conference title drew nearer.

Andover appeared to find its footing late in the third quarterwhen Tony Cullen ran for a 32-yard touchdown. The Huskies recovered the ensuing onside kick, but the drive was thwarted by a Christopherson interception.

Andover had trouble with its passing game all night. The Huskies' first play was a deep pass from Wes Satzinger to Geoff Schmalzer, who just missed hauling in a sure TD. The drive, which started with Osseo fumbling the opening kickoff, ended with Andover turning over the ball on downs.

Osseo's second scoring drive featured Sims battering his way to 24 yards on four carries before finishing with a 4-yard touchdown run.

David La Vaque • dlavaque@startribune.com