Michael George

MINOT – A football team doesn’t win nine games in 10 weeks without having some impact players in the lineup. And yes, Minot High, has its share of them.

One, in particular, has been a difference maker on Minot High’s vaunted defense. Senior outside linebacker Michael George  seems to be everywhere on the field. Whether he’s blitzing a quarterback, filling a gap on a run play or dropping back into pass coverage, No. 13 is often around the ball. “He is a unique blend of speed and physicality that can pose challenges for opposing offenses,” says Magician coach Chauncy Hendershot. 

George has been elected team captain the past two seasons. That speaks highly of his leadership. “Off the field he has become a mentor to our younger athletes in our program,’’ Hendershot adds.

Success on defense begins with everyone on the same page, and that’s one of the key roles George fills. “It’s all about communication,’’ the three-year letterwinner said. 

And George is the player to keep his teammates assignment sharp and informed on what formation they need to counter the opponent. It takes the right player who can pick up the tendencies of the offense and anticipate the flow of the play at the snap of the ball. And getting the opportunity to play since his sophomore seasons has given him the experience and confidence to grow into his position.

“He is explosive off the ball and has embraced his role in Coach Philion’s defense,’’ Hendershot said. “He has been involved in so many big plays our defense has made over the last couple of years.”

No surprise the all-state selection from a year ago is among the team leaders in defensive statistics. His 199 defensive points is a team best. So is his seven sacks and 12 tackles for loss. “I like to bring some energy (to the field),’’ George said. “I hope that can boast our moral and get others to make a play.”

One of the keys to a good defense is a unit playing with an edge, but in control. “Coach Philion has told us that teams are going to make a big play every once in a while,’’ George. “We have to keep our head up, stay focused and try and limit what they can do.”

Football at the next level may very well be in George’s future, but right now his focus is on the next few weeks and hopefully helping his team advance in the playoffs. 

Heading into the 2023 season George and his teammates knew something special could be in store. “As a group we are pretty close and we knew we could have a great year.”

The season began with a pair of shutouts and through 10 games the defense has surrendered an average of 8.5 points per game and held teams to under 200 yards of total offense.

No. 3 seed Minot High opened the postseason with a hard-fought 23-14 quarterfinal victory over conference rival Mandan. Its reward was a road showdown with No. 2 seed West Fargo Sheyenne in the semifinals.

The Mustangs’ 28-20 win in week six was the only blemish on Minot High’s record. Much more is at stake this Friday, Nov. 3.

 “We know we didn’t play our best football (in the first meeting),’’ he said. “We’re looking forward to getting the opportunity to playing them again.”