The three-week run to the Prep Bowl begins this weekend with the state quarterfinals in football. A pair of south metro teams have advanced in Class 5A, and each faces a tough, experienced opponent on Friday night at the Metrodome. Here is a closer look at the games:LAKEVILLE NORTH (10-0) VS. CRETIN-DERHAM HALL (10-0), 5 P.M.
The skinny: It's the only matchup of undefeated teams in the Class 5A quarterfinals. Since allowing 19 points to Apple Valley in Week 2, the Panthers have not surrendered more than 14 points in a game. The stout defense comes along with an offensive corps that breaks midweek practice huddles with "O-Show." The production is led by Trey Heid, a do-everything senior quarterback who passed for 192 yards and a touchdown in the section final against Owatonna last Friday while also kicking a field goal, making three extra points and taking care of the punting. Against the Raiders, he'll have to be at his best. Cretin-Derham Hall is battle-tested and making its fifth consecutive state appearance, 23rd overall. The team doesn't like to give up points, either, allowing an average of only eight per game.
PRIOR LAKE (8-3) VS. TOTINO-GRACE (10-1), 8 P.M.
The skinny: There is perhaps no giddier team in Class 5A this week than the Lakers. Their Section 3 championship victory over Eastview stamped the program's first trip to the state tournament. Prior Lake hadn't enjoyed a winning season since 2007, when the team finished 6-4 and lost to -- who else? -- the Lightning in the section playoffs. But not this year. Last one left in town before hitting downtown Minneapolis, turn out the lights. Under the dome's roof, the Lakers will get a formidable test. Totino-Grace, a private high school in Fridley, moved up to Class 5A this year after winning six Class 4A state championships since 2003.
