For the first time since back-to-back appearances in 2019 and 2020, the Saint Ansgar Saints Football Team is back in the state semi-final. The 10-1 Saints finished second in District 2.  After a comfortable victory in round one over South Winneshiek, the Saints advanced to the quarterfinal after a hard-fought 18-0 win against Wapsie Valley. After cruising to victory over Maquoketa Valley in their quarterfinal matchup, Saint Ansgar will now face the 10-1 Tri-Center Trojans. Head Coach Drew Clevenger knows it will be a battle but has been happy with the team’s attitude and how they have improved all year.

One of the strongest parts of this Saints team is their defense. During the season, they have allowed more than two touchdowns once in their 21-20 loss to West Hancock. The defense is led by strong play up front and their two linebackers, Joe Clevenger and Korben Michels. Clevenger led the team with 66.5 tackles, while Michels was not far behind with 65.5, leading the team with 13 tackles for loss. Despite being so stingy, Clevenger says the goal of the defense remains simple: get off the field.

On offense, expect to see a lot of the ground game from Saint Ansgar. However, they are effective in splitting up the carries between Michels and Tyson Kline. Michels leads the team with 1103 yards on 98 carries, while Kline has posted 843 yards on 113 carries. They both, however, enter Thursday’s game with 15 touchdowns showcasing the willingness to divide up the carries and responsibilities. Although they are both hard runners Clevenger commented on their abilities away from the ball that helps the team succeed.

The Tri-Center offense might be the biggest challenge the Saints have faced all year. The Trojans are a balanced team that comes to the table with multiple weapons at the skill positions. Quarterback AJ Harder has thrown for nearly 2,400 yards and 26 touchdowns. On the ground, Carter Kunze has been electric, running for over 2,000 yards and 34 touchdowns. Clevenger says its more about limiting than stopping but credits a lot of what Tri-Center does to their play in the trenches.

For Clevenger the keys to a win are simple.

Kickoff from the UNI Dome is scheduled for 1 pm.