When Lightning strikes

Jake Machacek - Pioneer Press prep football player of the year

It all started in the Machacek living room 15 years ago, with little Jake trying to run the football a few feet past his dad, Bob Machacek.

As Jake Machacek got older, bigger and faster, the feet turned into yards, and the yards multiplied until they hit 2,648, the fifth-best rushing total in a single season by a Minnesota high school running back. The 5-foot-11, 195-pound Eastview senior, the Pioneer Press high school football player of the year, also scored 37 touchdowns and passed for two others.

"When he was little, there wasn't any furniture in the living room, and there was this little pathway," Bob said. "He'd run the ball and pretend he was trying to score a touchdown, and I'd tackle him. Oh yeah, he got past me. His mom used to get mad because sometimes he'd end up crying. I wonder if that isn't where he got his toughness."

It also could be where Machacek got his nose for the end zone. Eastview didn't pass much this season. The Lightning didn't have to. They had a home run threat from anywhere on the field — without putting the ball in the air.

Machacek's longest touchdown run of the season was a 95-yarder in the Lightning's first sectional playoff game against Owatonna.

"We had just stopped them on defense, and they punted us down to our 5," Machacek said. "It was our first offensive play. It was power, the hole was there, I broke an arm tackle or two, but it was straightforward. I just busted one loose.

"I felt like it was never going to end. It didn't seem like the end zone was getting closer. The last 15 yards, I looked back, and there was no one near me. It was a home game, but to be honest, I didn't notice the crowd roaring until after. During the run, there was too much stuff going on in my head to think of that."

Later in that victory, Machacek added a 68-yard scoring run, but the Owatonna game wasn't his biggest single-game rushing total. That came in the Lightning's second playoff victory against Rochester Century, in which he topped the 300-yard mark for the first time in his two years as Eastview's starting running back.

Machacek said his most meaningful touchdown this year was the one he scored against Bloomington Jefferson late in the game.

"It was the first game of the season, we were down by eight and there was two minutes left," Machacek said. "It was fourth and 1, and I was so nervous."

Nervous or not, Machacek scored from 29 yards out to bring Eastview to within two points. He scored the two-point conversion and then scored from 10 yards on the first play in overtime. The Eastview defense held, and the Lightning were on their way to an 11-2 season.

Machacek's touchdowns always began up front, with an offensive line that averaged 260 pounds. His linemen knew every play could result in a touchdown.

"We made goals each week for our whole line: how many pancake blocks we can get and see if we can get Jake into the end zone each time," junior right guard Scott Horvath said. "Our relationship with Jake is pretty strong. We talk a lot of football together and supported each other all the way through to the Metrodome. It was a pleasure playing with him."

The season ended at the Metrodome with a loss to Wayzata in the state semifinals. Even though the Wayzata defense managed to shut down Eastview's offense in the second half, Machacek streaked to a 68-yard score early in the game and finished with 139 yards.

It was a disappointing end to a dream season for a player who Eastview coach Kelly Sherwin describes as a "physical, hard-nosed runner, a hard-to-bring-down type guy" as well as "real down to earth and humble."

The question now: Where will Machacek play next year?

"I really don't even know," he said. "Nothing too big is happening. I've gotten letters, but nothing too big. I've had zero offers. It's frustrating at times, but I have to deal with it."

Machacek said he is willing to go anywhere and play football at any level. Some scholarship money would be nice, he said, but he just wants to play. He would consider walking on at the University of Minnesota if it came to that.

"That's my dream, to be a Gopher," he said. "But I don't know what they're looking for."

Wherever Machacek ends up playing, his parents will be there watching. Bob and his wife, Shelly, have told Jake they will be at all of his college games, no matter how far away. It's a habit Bob Machacek can't break; the former Faribault offensive lineman always has arrived at the stadium at 5:30 p.m. to stake out a favorite spot and watch his son play.

"I try to be the first," Bob said. "I'm superstitious. I am going to miss the games at Eastview. I'm still going through withdrawal right now."

The Machaceks still have the hockey season. Jake scored 25 goals as a junior right wing for the Lightning last year, and after taking a short break, he will be back on the ice this season.

"Coach told me to take two weeks off," Machacek said. "He doesn't want me to get sick of hockey yet. To be honest, if coach let me, I'd probably start tomorrow, but it's nice to have time to rest, come home and have time with my family."

Rick Shefchik can be reached at rshefchik@pioneerpress.com

All State 1st Team

ADAM WEBER

QB, Mounds View, 6 feet 2, 206 pounds, Sr.

Started four seasons at quarterback for the Mustangs. Will take his talent to the University of Minnesota next season. Can play on either side of the ball. Gave the Mustangs a boost defensively by moving to safety late in the season.

ALEXANDER ROBINSON

RB, DeLaSalle, 5-10, 175, Sr.

Had a huge game against Columbia Heights with 30 carries for 464 yards, a state single-game rushing record, and scored five touchdowns. Being recruited by the University of Minnesota, Ball State, Iowa State, Kentucky and Wyoming.

ANTHONY CHRISTENSEN

RB, Two Harbors, 5-10½, 195 pounds, Sr.

Rushed for 2,709 yards, third-highest single-season total of all time, in 10 games. He scored 33 touchdowns while averaging 270.9 yards a game, and 8.9 yards a carry. Rushed for 300 yards or more four times, with a high game of 406 yards. Career rushing total of 5,146 yards and 64 TDs.

JAKE MACHACEK

RB, Eastview, 5-11, 195, Sr.

Machacek was a dominant running back who rushed for 2,648 yards on 351 carries and 37 touchdowns, all school records. He averaged 7.5 yards a carry and helped the Lightning to its second state tournament. Hasn't selected a college but is getting interest from teams such as Montana, North Dakota State, St. Cloud State and Northern Iowa.

TAYLOR MARX

WR, Bloomington Jefferson, 6-0, 180, Sr.

Has the hands, the lateral movement and the ability to get open. Was a great deep threat for the Jaguars. He averaged 20.1 yards a catch with 48 receptions for 964 yards and 16 touchdowns. Undecided on college.

SHANE POTTER

WR, Becker, 6-2, 190, Jr.

The Mississippi 8 Conference player of the year. He had 46 receptions for 786 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also rushed for 393 yards and six TDs, and completed 6 of 13 passes for 173 yards and two TDs. Defensive back might be his best position. He had 45 tackles and 31 assists and four interceptions.

EVAN SANFORD

OL, Eastview, 6-2, 285, Sr.

A two-year starter and part of the Lightning's big, physical line that provided opportunities for all state running back and player of the year Jake Machacek. Sanford is a physical, smart player who was the player who made a lot of calls at the line of scrimmage. Attracting interest from Illinois and Wisconsin.

MATT CARUFEL

OL, Cretin-Derham Hall, 6-5, 280, Sr.

Minnesota's most sought after college prospect with offers from 15 schools and counting. Graded as the complete lineman in the running and passing game. Very agile and mobile. Always finishes his blocks. Helped the Raiders to the Class AAAAA championship game.

ADAM HEGEDUS

OL, Wayzata, 6-3, 255, Sr.

Blossomed after being moved to the offensive line. Excellent at pulling and leading the outside running plays. Coach Brad Anderson said Hegedus was the reason the Trojans were able to run as well as they did.

ANDY BRINKHAUS

OL, Jefferson, 6-4, 270, Sr.

Had 17 pancake blocks this season. A great drive blocker with good feet and lateral movement. A good pass blocker who didn't give up a sack. One of the school's best linemen. He will join his brother Tony at the University of Minnesota next season.

BRAD ALBANO

TE, Farmington, 6-2, 230, Sr.

A solid blocker and crucial part of the Tigers' running game that averaged 343 yards a game. A defensive end who drew double teams. Had 50 tackles and two sacks.

SEAN BARRETT

P, Mahtomedi, 6-2, 175, Sr.

Averaged 35.9 yards a punt, with a long of 67 yards, and placed 10 inside the 20-yard line. His extra point in overtime gave the Zephyrs the Class AAAA state title. He hit 12 of 15 field goals, with a long of 46 yards, and averaged 50.3 yards on kickoffs, with 14 touchbacks.

JOEY MILLER

KR/PR, Wayzata, 5-11, 190, Sr.

Averaged 11.2 yards on 29 punt returns, including one for a touchdown, and returned five kickoffs for an average of 18.4 yards. Rushed for 1,786 yards, averaging 6.7 yards a carry, and scored 15 touchdowns for the Class AAAAA state champions.

SHAWN BIBEAU

K, White Bear Lake, 6-0, 190, Sr.

A placekicker who also helped out as a running back. Bibeau hit all 28 extra points and was 4 of 6 on field-goal attempts — 33, 40 42 and 44 yards. He also put 31 of 45 kickoffs into the end zone. Rushed for 600 yards.

Kevin LAUER

LB, Hastings, 6-1, 230, Sr.

Averaged 100 tackles a year over three seasons. Against Mounds View, helped limit all-state quarterback Adam Weber to 6 yards rushing. Had a blocked field goal and blocked an extra point in that game.

TOMMY BECKER

LB, Wayzata, 6-2, 230, Sr.

Had 64 tackles, including 20 for losses, and 35 assists. Also had six sacks and six quarterback pressures. A big part of the defensive effort that led to the school's first state title.

BLAKE SORENSEN

LB, Eden Prairie, 6-0, 205, Jr.

Coach Mike Grant said Sorensen is the fastest linebacker he has had in 14 years. His 99 tackles tied for the team lead. Also had two interceptions to help the Eagles to the Class AAAAA state quarterfinal round.

BOBBY KLINT

DB, Totino-Grace, 6-1, 189, Sr.

Blocked seven punts and a field goal during his career. A three-year starter on teams that won two state titles. Had 76 tackles and three interceptions. Leaning toward St. John's University, his father's alma mater, and where his grandfather was a star.

KIMUEL ROYSTON

DB, Cretin-Derham Hall, 5-11, 185, Sr.

He was an asset to the Raiders on both sides of the ball. Frequently took on an opponent's best receiver. Perhaps the play that best defined his ability was a 47-yard run against Anoka on which he changed directions at least five times without breaking stride. Has committed to the University of Wisconsin.

BRADY ERVIN

DB, Eden Prairie, 6-2, 195, Sr.

Was the leader of the Eden Prairie defense, which held nine opponents to one touchdown or less. Led the Eagles with seven interceptions. An outstanding special-teams player.

FREDDY COLEMAN

DB, St. Paul Johnson, 6-4, 210, Sr.

A cool, smart player who made key interceptions to save at least two games and sparked the Governors to the section final. Had 23 tackles and broke up five passes in addition to making three interceptions. Also the Governors' quarterback and player they wanted with the ball with the game on the line.

SEAN McWHIRTER

DL, Orono, 6-4, 255, Sr.

The Spartans used McWhirter in all four defensive line spots. Was frequently double-teamed but his quick first step enabled him to record 19 sacks. Had 71 total tackles. Also played offensive guard and was the team's long-snapper. Considering several offers, including Minnesota and Michigan State.

BRANDON HOEY

DL, Mounds View, 6-5, 280, Sr.

The defensive lineman of the year in the Suburban East Conference. Had 61 solo tackles and 33 assists, including 22 tackles for losses. Also had six sacks. Drew double teams consistently because of his size and strength. Has committed to the University of Wisconsin.

JAKE FABIAN

DL, Blaine, 6-1, 240, Sr.

Drew double teams all season at the nose guard position. Very quick off the ball. Nearly impossible to single block. Was named the most valuable defensive player in the Northwest Suburban Conference after recording 5½ sacks, three blocked kicks and 38 tackles, including 10 for losses.

KARL KLUG

DL, Caledonia, 6-2, 220, Sr.

Going into the Class AA championship game against Eden Valley-Watkins, he had 75 tackles, six fumble recoveries, 18 sacks, and 30 hurries. Also a standout running back. Has committed to the University of Iowa.

All State 2nd Team

All State Honorable Mention

QUARTERBACKS

Connor Anderson, Stillwater

Garrett Augustine, Jefferson

Charles Bruchu, Hill-Murray

Marcus Brumm, Lakeville South

Dan Dobson, Mankato West

Matt Dvorak, St. Croix Lutheran

Seth Gould, St. Croix Lutheran

John Haberman, Brainerd

Phil Haig, Henry Sibley

Jordan Hansel, St. Cloud Tech

Joe Kloetzke, Concordia Academy

Jake Kranz, Hastings

Andrew Larson, Fergus Falls

Spencer McMillan, SPA/MPA

Travis Meiners, Dover-Eyota

Spencer Ohm, Blooming Prairie

Mike Pohlkamp, Pierz

Kyle Provos, Champlin Park

Matt Puhl, North St. Paul

Tyler Scott, Pelican Rapids

Joe Springer, Cretin-Derham Hall

J. Vanderboom, Breck

D.J. Winfield, Mountain Iron-Buhl

Nate Wold, Becker

Chris Wolfe, Winona Cotter

RUNNING BACKS

Nic Anderson, Cannon Falls

Tyler Bass, Blooming Prairie

Josh Budensiek, Goodhue

Joe Clark, Rochester Century

Michael Duncombe, Mounds View

Brad Foss, Mahtomedi

Rhegy Gelo, International Falls

Kolby Gullickson, Fertile-Beltrami

Drew Hayes, Bagley

Curtis Herzberg, St. Agnes

Chris Hickey, Cretin-Derham Hall

Adam Hiltner, Eden Valley-Watkins

C.J. Hoffman, Chisago Lakes

Nico Holmes, Woodbury

Jalon Hopkins, Minnetonka

Rashad Jefferson, Humboldt

Brian Jensen, Underwood

Beau Kvam, Triton

Craig Lachowitzer, Otter Tail Central

Cory Mattson, Hawley

Kyle Minett, Russell-Tyler-Ruthton

Kyle Nash, Hillcrest Lutheran

Charles Quigley, Totino-Grace

Tyler Rank, Rochester Mayo

Jakob Reding, Eden Prairie

Josh Rose, Litchfield

Derek Rux, Waterville-E-M

Blake Sczepanski, Stephen-Argyle

Marcus Sherels, Rochester Marshall

Jim Siegle, Long Prairie-Grey Eagle

Jerad Stewart, Hastings

Zavier Stewart, Washburn

Mychel Stowers, St. Paul Central

Nick Strike, Kingsland

Andre Tate, Henry Sibley

Jamar Thompson, Andover

Ken Thompson, Park (Cottage Grove)

Josh Thurston, Concordia Academy

Ryan Timm, Minnesota VL

Brandon Turner, Totino-Grace

Woody Wagner, Alexandria

Jordan Weller, Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa

Mike Wubbena, Fairmont

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

Ben Aaseth, BOLD

Ty Boyle, International Falls

Adam Franzen, Lewiston-Altura

Jeff Gilbertson, Winona Cotter

Matt Gratzek, Stephen-Argyle

Josh Griebel, Delano

Chance Hanson, Mabel-Canton

Zach Kolars, Mankato Loyola

Erik Kottom, Eden Prairie

Karl Kratzke, Mankato East

Grant Krumme, Spring Lake Park

Mike May, LeSueur-Henderson

Matt McDonough, St. Paul Johnson

Erik Meyer, Wayzata

Jonathon O'Donnell, Rushford-Peterson

Josh Ostrue, South St. Paul

Drew Penz, Rochester Mayo

Tony Pokriefka, St. Paul Highland Park

Scott Saehr, Pierz

John Schantzen, Stillwater

Matt Slater, Cretin-Derham Hall

Jon Stephens, Concordia Academy

Sam Sterner, Waconia

Max Stoll, Minneapolis North

Luke Young, Foley

TIGHT ENDS

Jimbo Bell, Holy Family Academy

Josh Overman, Albany

Carl Sneep, Brainerd

WIDE RECEIVERS

A.J. Barker, St. Paul Academy Mounds Park Academy

Zac Chike, Rochester Century

Donovan Duncan, North St. Paul

Mussie Embaye, Highland Park

Josh Flavin, Little Falls

Aaron Fruth, St. Cloud Tech

David Gilreath, Mpls. Washburn

Jake Krause, Moorhead

Nick Lewis, Fergus Falls

Drew Lundberg, Owatonna

Jordan McMichael, Breck

Brandon Mickelson, Champlin Park

Blake Olson, West Central Area

B.J. Otto, Hill-Murray

R. Reichensperger, Tower-Soudan

Zach Rinn, Lewiston-Altura

Tom Russo, Hill-Murray

Aaron Senne, Rochester Mayo

Sam Tacheny, Concordia Academy

Tom Whalen, Fridley

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

Ben Aaseth, BOLD

Norman Bell, Highland Park

Adam Boldt, Woodbury

Chris Christianson, Alexandria

Matt Gratzek, Stephen-Argyle

Matt Haas,Tartan

Justin Hensch, Fergus Falls

Nick Konkel, Plainview/Elgin-Millville

Kyle Krusenstjerna, Eastview

Jon Lankenau, BOLD

Brady MacIver, Anoka

Willie Mobley, Eden Prairie

Gary Richards, Moorhead

Scott Saehr, Pierz

Jake Schoenecker, New Prague

Kyle Schroeder, Rocori

Jim Sharpe, Wayzata

LINEBACKERS

David Beilke, Brainerd

Mike Bofferding, Highland Park

Ben Boutin, Littlefork-Big Falls

Josh Budensiek, Goodhue

Mike Compart, Minnesota VL

Matt Daley, Mankato West

Tom Elfering, BOLD

Kyle Girtz, Pierz

Alex Gruidl, Mankato West

Dan Hall, St. Cloud Apollo

Jake Harmon

Adam Johannsen, Mahtomedi

Blayne Johnson, Litchfield

Russell Johnson, Cromwell

Kevin Klug, Caledonia

Corey Knuppel, Eagan

Joe Lindgaard, Cambridge-Isanti

Mike May, LeSueur-Henderson

Bryce McNaul, Eden Prairie

David Nass, Minnesota VL

Cody O'Malley, Kasson-Mantorville

Ross Petterson, Osseo

Calvin Ryan, Goodhue

Tom Sellwood, Mahtomedi

D'Angelos Svenkeson, St. Paul Central

DEFENSIVE BACKS

Zac Benson, Grand Meadow

Delorien Caraway, St. Paul Johnson

Joela Davis, St. Paul Central

Tom Flicek, Montgomery-Lonsdale

Blake Hedstrom, Blaine

Dillon Powell, Eastview

Matt Risinger, Minnetonka

Travis Steele, Caledonia

Larry Thomas, St. Paul Highland Park

Eric Werdahl, Chaska

D.J. Winfield, Mountain Iron-Buhl

KICKERS

Sam Buckman, Minnetonka

Andrew Ellis, St. Paul Johnson

Ricky Granquist, Blaine

Jon Huebner, St. Croix Lutheran

Dan Pitzl, Totino-Grace

PUNTERS

Gerrard DeWet, Lewiston-Altura

KICK RETURNERS

Josh Wallert, Concordia Academy-Bloomington

Pat Whinnery, Maple Grove

— Compiled by Jim Wells