brandon Valley Lynx Crowned 11AAA Football Champions, Ending Lincoln’s Dynasty
VERMILLION, S.D. – The Brandon Valley Lynx secured their frist state championship since 2020, defeating the Lincoln Patriots 34-27 in a thrilling 11AAA title game Friday, halting Lincoln’s bid for a historic three-peat. The victory marks the ninth state championship for the Lynx program, with three titles each across the 11AAA, 11AA, and 11A classifications.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team establishing a lead larger than seven points.Brandon Valley drew first blood with a two-yard touchdown run by Levi Veskerna in the opening quarter. Lincoln responded, but Veskerna quickly answered with another rushing touchdown.A 48-yard touchdown run by Lincoln quarterback Brody Schafer tied the score at 14, only for Ryder Mueller to break free for a 55-yard touchdown run, giving Brandon Valley a 20-14 lead at halftime.
The second half saw continued momentum swings. Schafer put Lincoln ahead with a one-yard quarterback keeper early in the third quarter. Veskerna then powered his way into the endzone for his third touchdown of the game,regaining the lead for Brandon Valley. Lincoln once again responded,with Schafer connecting with Loisson Akossi for a five-yard touchdown pass. Ultimately, it was Briggs Knutson’s five-yard touchdown run that proved to be the decisive score.
brandon Valley dominated the ground game, amassing 347 rushing yards compared to Lincoln’s 176. Lincoln, however, found success through the air, gaining 244 passing yards to Brandon Valley’s 77.
Veskerna was named the game’s MVP after a dominant performance, rushing for 260 yards and three touchdowns on 39 carries. Schafer also had a standout game for Lincoln, completing 23 of 32 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding 138 rushing yards and two touchdowns of his own.
