Exciting Finish in Southeast Polk’s Championship Victory
In a thrilling showdown in the UNI-Dome, the Southeast Polk Rams capped off their season by defeating the Valley Tigers in the Class 5A state championship with a dramatic last-minute touchdown. This victory marks their fourth consecutive state title in what could only be described as an instant classic.
The game was filled with twists and turns, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. As time ticked away, the Rams were trailing 35-30 but executed a stunning drive. Holden Hansen showed exceptional poise, scrambling on fourth-and-5 to secure an important first down. Moments later, with just seconds on the clock, Hansen dove into the end zone, aided by a massive push from his teammates.
After scoring, the Rams decided to go for a 2-point conversion, successfully converting to take the lead. Suddenly, the Tigers were in a position where they needed a field goal to tie the game, with just 21 seconds left and two timeouts. The tension was palpable.
Valley quickly went to work, moving the ball into Southeast Polk territory. But with the clock winding down, they were faced with a critical fourth-and-5 from the Rams’ 13-yard line. Unfortunately for the Tigers, a last-ditch pass was picked off by Southeast Polk, sealing the Rams’ victory as the clock struck zero.
Leading up to the final moments, the Tigers made a remarkable comeback, scoring three touchdowns late in the game. Their quarterback, Drake DeGroote, and star receiver, Zay Robinson, fought hard to push their team back into contention. DeGroote’s connections were pivotal, including a 34-yard touchdown catch by Robinson, which got Valley back on the board after trailing for much of the game.
Notably, the Rams’ defense held strong during crucial drives, forcing turnovers and putting pressure when it mattered most. It was a grueling contest for both teams, filled with passionate plays and strategic calls that showcased the true spirit of high school football.
This game truly encapsulated the excitement of the Iowa high school football season, and the victory for Southeast Polk secures their legacy as one of the state’s powerhouse teams.
