Football: Willmar/Marshall rivalry has a key twist

Willmar and Marshall high school football teams have a long-standing rivalry dating back to 2021. The teams meet again on November 4, with Willmar seeking to make its first state appearance since 2018 and the fifth in program history. Marshall, on the other hand, aims for its third consecutive state trip and seventh overall.

Willmar head coach Jon Konold emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, stating that Marshall traditionally runs the ball, utilizes play-action pass, plays strong defense, and creates field position. Marshall coach Terry Bahlmann, in contrast, praised Willmar's program, noting that they played well in their first matchup this season.

The regular-season game took place on September 18 at Hodapp Field, where Willmar won 309-69. Willmar senior left tackle/defensive lineman Travis Venenga highlighted the physicality of the Tigers but implied that conditions for the upcoming game might be similar. Willmar's offense was led by Hudson Sjoberg and Isaac Cayler, who combined for 255 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

Marshall has gone 5-1 since their Week 3 loss to Willmar, with their only other loss coming against Orono. Their losses have been to two Class AAAA teams, Orono and Willmar. Marshall's ground game has been particularly effective, as shown by their 374 rushing yards in a semifinal win against Hutchinson on Saturday.

Willmar's offense has been particularly strong, with Sjoberg and Cayler as their primary backs. Quarterback Alex Hoppe also contributed significantly to the team's success. Marshall, meanwhile, has relied on a powerful ground game, which has resulted in 374 rushing yards against Hutchinson. Coach Konold believes that Marshall's defense and ground game make them a formidable opponent.