The Rosemount Irish fight back for the Bank

After a disappointing loss to Maple Grove last year, the Rosemount Irish hope to return to U.S. Bank Stadium. But this will be no easy task for them.

Rosemount has a neutral record of 4-4 – the same as their first-round opponent, Blaine. This game comes down to who is the most aggressive and who has the biggest heart. This game will test both the offense and defense to see what they are capable of.

The Irish are looking strong defensively, having brought the first-seed Centennials’ scoring streak to only a 9-point lead at the end of last week’s game. The defense has proven to be sufficient against high scoring and ranked teams. However, this week’s game against Blaine might pose some issues as they have a spread formation which will require the Irish defense to play fast and aggressive while having great coverage. Luckily Blaine has been undisciplined, leaving players unblocked and having poor gap protection. Rosemount has high hopes of being successful against Blaine and any other teams they may face in the playoffs.

Rosemount’s offense has been struggling to stay consistent and execute pass plays. The offensive line has gotten better with gap protection but still struggles occasionally with pass protection. Rosemount has thrown only a couple of passes resulting in 352 total passing/receiving yards, with two resulting in touchdowns. However, Rosemount has been successful with run plays, which have resulted in 640 total rushing yards in 8 games. This is where Rosemount has been most successful offensively and where they hope to continue to strive at.

Rosemount’s community is cheering on the fighting Irish in hopes they make their way back to the Bank, repeating the underdog season from 2016.