The gridiron showdown between the Shakopee Sabers and the Prior Lake Lakers is set to ignite on September 8th, 2023, as these bitter rivals clash once again in what promises to be an electrifying contest. This storied rivalry, which has been a local spectacle since at least 2004, will take place at the hallowed Shakopee High School Football Field, where the Sabers will look to close the gap in the all-time series.

With the Lakers currently leading the series 12-3, the Sabers are eager to turn the tide and make a statement on their home turf. The previous encounter between these two teams showcased the fierce competition that defines this matchup. Last year’s game saw Prior Lake nail a 33-yard field goal, only to be answered by a stunning kickoff return for a touchdown by Shakopee. In a battle of strength and determination, the Sabers amassed 296 total yards, with an impressive 228 rushing yards, while the Lakers notched 167 total yards, predominantly on the ground.

As the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this game holds a special significance for both teams. Rick Ford, founder and CEO of the series, stated, “The Shakopee vs Prior Lake rivalry has been a cornerstone of our program for two decades, exemplifying the passion and intensity of high school football. This year’s clash promises to be a historic battle that showcases the essence of what makes Friday nights under the lights so special.”

The stage is set for an enthralling encounter, and the stands are expected to be packed with approximately 2000 passionate fans, fueling the energy of this fierce rivalry. The Sabers, led by their mascot, will be roaring with hometown pride, while the Lakers, embodying their namesake, will be ready to make waves on the field.

In a rivalry that has seen its fair share of heart-stopping moments, both teams are primed to leave it all on the gridiron. Will Prior Lake maintain their dominance over the Sabers, or will Shakopee rise to the occasion and rewrite the history books? Be there to witness the action and experience the unbridled excitement of high school football.

We Know Friday Nights.

MVP

TJ Clark
Shakopee

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Connor McGee

Shakopee

Connor is a two-year letter winner in Football and baseball, earning ALL District Honorable Mention in 2022. Connor is also a letter winner in weightlifting and academics holding a 4.04 GPA. He is highly involved in DECA, National Honor Society, and National Business Honor Society and is a Captain of the 2023 Saber Football team!
Jason Green

Prior Lake

Jason has been an outstanding student in the classroom, taking numerous honors and AP classes and succeeding tremendously. He is also an amazing leader, serving as one of our co-captains this year. He displays leadership through his excellent work ethic, positive attitude, and servant leadership both on and off the field.

GAME SUMMARY

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes tonight, the Shakopee High School Sabers faced the Prior Lake High School Lakers with the Sabers looking to repeat last year’s performance with another win. The game kicked off with the Sabers taking an early lead in the first quarter, going up 7-0 after a tightly fought goal line TD. The second half was a battle of both sides, with the defense and offense fighting for this 2023 rivalry win. Brody Miller knocked down a potential touchdown from Prior Lake in a huge defensive play for the Sabers in the 3rd. A botched pitch by Shakopee, gave Prior Lake the opportunity to run it into the endzone for a TD to tie it up at 7 with just under 3:30 left in the 3rd. The last quarter of the game, Shakopee ran up the score with a series of impressive offensive plays. A huge 45 yd dart from Clark to Klein put Shakopee up 14-7 at the top of the 4th quarter. TJ Clark ran up the middle into the endzone to snag his second TD of the night to push Shako’s lead to 21-7 with just under 4 min left in the game. A massive late game – 3rd TD by TJ Clark secured the W for Shakopee with a final score of 28-7. It was another amazing Friday night of football in Minnesota for the Great American Rivalry Series!