Apple Valley Eagles Soar to Victory Over Burnsville Blaze
Quieris Barnslater rarely comes off the field for Apple Valley, and on Thursday, he again showed why he should not. The North Dakota State commit is an offensive threat running or throwing, had a couple kickoff returns outside the 40, and is one of the team’s best tacklers. He self-describes as an “ATHLETE !!” on his X page, and his performance on the field certainly backs up that claim.
Barnslater ran for 155 yards and two touchdowns and threw for 65 yards and a score as the Eagles won 43-24 at Burnsville. Tylan Ward had a touchdown reception and an interception, highlighting the team’s strong performance. According to Barnslater, “I just want to help the team as much as I could at any position. It was good to come out and get a W tonight.”
Barnslater’s Versatility and Confidence
Barnslater’s preferred position is not a concern for him, as he simply loves to play football. “It doesn’t really matter to me, I just like to play football. I’m a football player,” said the senior, who will play cornerback in college. He oozes confidence and politeness, and it’s clear that he’s having a lot of fun playing with his teammates, whom he’s known since fourth grade.
Barnslater was the district wide receiver of the year in 2023 and 2024 before winning the quarterback battle in training camp, a position he played from third to eighth grade. His coach, Pete Usset, calls him an “absolute blessing” to the team and school, stating that “it’s not every year, or maybe even every decade, for a lot of coaches to get a Division I, NDSU-level athlete like that.”
Rivalry Renewed
This is the first time since 2016 that the South Suburban Conference foes, separated by less than five miles, have met. The advent of district football put a nearly decade-long kibosh on the rivalry, with Apple Valley being a Class 5A school and Burnsville 6A. However, the Blaze dropped down a class this season, renewing the rivalry.
Apple Valley (3-3) took advantage of two first-half interceptions and two fumble recoveries — one for a safety — for a 23-3 lead. The Blaze (1-5) finished with five turnovers and an unsuccessful fourth-quarter fake punt at their own 25. Burnsville has allowed at least 41 points in four of its six games, highlighting the team’s struggles on defense.
For more information on the game and the teams, visit Here
Image Source: www.twincities.com
