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Defending 5A champ Owatonna, rushing machine Williamson pull away from Chaska

By DAVID LA VAQUE, Star Tribune, 11/10/18, 2:45PM CST

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The Hawks rallied to take the lead at halftime but Owatonna, behind five rushing touchdowns by Gopher recruit Jason Williamson, claimed a 42-27 victory.


Owatonna running back Jason Williamson (22) runs untouched for a first-quarter touchdown against Chaska on Saturda at TCO Stadium in Eagan. Photo: DAVID JOLES • david.joles@startribune.com

Trailing at halftime for just the second time all season failed to unnerve Owatonna.

The defending Class 5A state champions just needed a reminder of their identity.

“We said, ‘Go out there and play Owatonna football,’ ” senior offensive lineman Chris Lewis said.

Which is … ?

“Grind them. Shove it down their throats,” said Lewis, his right hand punching the palm of his left hand for emphasis.

It worked. Owatonna pulled away in a 42-27 victory against Chaska in the first of two state tournament quarterfinals on Saturday at Twin Cities Orthopedic Stadium in Eagan.

Owatonna running back Jason Williamson, who has committed to the Gophers, scored five touchdowns on 39 carries for an unofficial 333 yards.

“He’s got great vision and he’s very shifty,” Chaska coach Bryan Dahl said. “Best back we saw this year by far.”

First report

Defending state champion Owatonna found itself in a tight game with Chaska at halftime before pulling away for a 42-27 victory Saturday in a Class 5A quarterfinal at Twin Cities Orthopedic Stadium in Eagan.

Owatonna running back Jason Williamson, who committed to the Gophers, scored five touchdowns on 39 carries for an unofficial 334 yards.

Trailing 14-0 after the first quarter, Chaska responded with 17 consecutive points and led 17-14 at halftime. The Hawks displayed the skills and toughness that got them through Section 2, one of the state’s most difficult.

A 47-yard touchdown run from Williamson on the Huskies’ first second half drive provided a lead they would not relinquish.

Check back later for more on the game.

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