Podany also connected with Afy Ibekwe for two scores in the game.

“Their front seven started putting on some pressure,” Podany said. “But I am just so proud and grateful how we fought until the end.”

Francois converted on fourth-and-5 with an 8-yard gain. One play later, Chase Conrad scored from 15 yards out to put the Skippers ahead 28-21. Podany and the Tornadoes failed to answer on the next possession.

“It was tough on them a little bit,” Anoka coach Bo Wasurick said. “Peyton is really good at putting the ball out there on a post where his guys should be, but when they are getting diverted or obstructed — that’s tough.”

Opportunity knocked and Francois seized the moment. He picked up another first down rushing to keep Anoka under pressure deep in its own end of the field. One play later, he scored to make it 35-21.

His 30th carry pushed his game total to 250 yards and for all intents and purposes sealed the game.