Spring Lake Park 43, Faribault 19
Both teams turned the ball over early at Lakeville North, but when Spring Lake Park settled down, the Panthers used a dominating offensive line to control the game. The biggest benefactor of the line's play was running back Isley Carrington, who rushed for three first-half touchdowns, including an 81-yard score. Often running off the left side behind Zack Johnson and Joshua White, Carrington and fullback Zachary Ojile followed the lead of quarterback Derek Salwei, who ran the Panthers' veer offense to perfection. After a Faribault drive in the first quarter ended in a touchdown, the Panthers defense gave up little else until the game was well in hand. Defensive back Josh Bauer had two interceptions.
Key of the game: The Panthers dominated both sides of the line of scrimmage.
The offensive line paved the way for five rushing touchdowns.
Quote: "The line made some key blocks on plays designed for me and we just finished some drives.'' — Isley Carrington
One thing to know: Spring Lake Park's Bauer now has 13 interceptions this season. The Panthers will play Simley in the Class 5A semifinals Friday at Hopkins High School.
BRIAN JERZAK