Trending
MINNEOTA -- Minneota football has established itself as one of the state’s premier programs, and the Vikings will enter the 2026 season with a chance to add another chapter to that history.
Minneota currently carries a 46-game winning streak and has won four consecutive Class A state championships. Despite that remarkable run of success, head coach Chad Johnson knows the expectations do not make the work any easier.
The Vikings will have some new faces stepping into important roles this season, but Johnson said the entire roster has embraced the work necessary to continue the program’s success.
"This team knows it takes a whole team to be successful, so they support each other," Johnson said. "They understand they need to be unselfish and do what is best for the team."
That team-first mentality has been a major part of Minneota’s success. Rather than focusing on the streak or the championships already won, the Vikings emphasize the things they can control, including their effort, preparation and mindset.
"We believe we have all the ability to be very competitive again this season, but nothing is guaranteed," Johnson said. "We need to execute every week."
The Vikings return several key players who will be expected to help lead the team through another challenging season.
At quarterback, Tristen Sussner returns to take the reins of the offense. Johnson said Sussner’s combination of athleticism, intelligence and accuracy makes him an important piece of the Vikings’ attack.
"Tristen Sussner is returning at quarterback for us," Johnson said. "He is a very smart, athletic player with a strong arm and good accuracy."
Minneota will also have senior receivers Ian Myhre and Landon Esping returning as the team’s top two expected targets. Their experience should give Sussner a pair of reliable options in the passing game.
On the other side of the ball, Randy Sorensen will look to build on a strong defensive season. Sorensen was Minneota’s leading tackler last year, but Johnson expects him to take on an expanded role offensively as well.
Johnson said Sorensen will see time at running back and believes his physical running style and speed could make him a difference-maker.
While the Vikings have plenty of talent, Johnson knows the team cannot afford to look too far ahead. With every opponent looking to knock off the defending state champions, maintaining focus each week will be critical.
"We need to make sure that we keep the team focused at taking each game one at a time, needing to stay focused knowing we will always get the best from everyone," Johnson said.
That mindset is part of what has allowed Minneota to sustain its success for so long. The program’s culture emphasizes accountability and expects players to hold themselves and their teammates to a high standard.
"We believe success breeds success," Johnson said. "Our kids know the tradition that has been running in our program for years, and they are eager to maintain that level of play. Our culture is based on accountability. We are committed to holding ourselves and our teammates accountable for their effort."
Now, the Vikings will attempt to do something that has become increasingly difficult in Minnesota high school football -- extend an already historic run.
With a 46-game winning streak, four straight state championships and a group of experienced players returning, Minneota enters the season with another opportunity to compete for a title. But Johnson knows the Vikings will have to earn it one game at a time.