The Suburban White subdistrict remains up for grabs heading into the final week of the regular season, and Waconia controls its own fate. A victory over Chanhassen would secure the district title and provide a heavy boost of momentum entering postseason play.
An added importance: Both teams reside in Class 5A, Section 2, meaning the winner could gain playoff home-field advantage.
Defense has been vital for the No. 5-5A Wildcats (6-1, 3-0), a team allowing just 5.4 points per game and just 16 total points over the last five weeks. That included holding the reigning Class 4A champion and top-ranked Holy Angels to a lone touchdown in a 7-6 loss last week.
Waconia's offense averages 25 points per game and is fueled by the rushing attack of running back Mitchell Garnatz (493 yards, 4 TDs) and quarterback Ethan Swanson (376 rushing yards, 4 TDs).
The No. 6-5A Storm (6-1, 2-1) have leaned on dual-threat quarterback Jacob Miller to lead the offense. He has used his arm to amass 651 passing yards and seven touchdowns while gaining a team-high 769 yards and seven touchdowns with his feet. Chanhassen's defense also boasts senior linebacker Cade Plath, who leads the state with 97 tackles this season.