HUMBOLDT — The Humboldt football team served notice to the rest of Class 3A that they remain a state contender here Friday night.

With a run-first approach in rainy and windy conditions, the Wildcats rolled through previously-unbeaten and top-ranked (RPI) Clear Lake, 34-0.

Coen Matson ran in three scores and Lance Coon had two for Humboldt (5-3 overall, 3-1 in district), who will now meet Webster City (6-2, 3-1) for the district title next week after the Lynx knocked off Algona.

All three of Matson’s TD runs came in the first half as the Wildcats raced out to a 21-0 advantage.

“This was a huge win for our kids,” Humboldt head coach Derrick Elman said. “They showed what hard work and playing for each other can do. This senior group has been a group of kids that just goes to work. I’m so proud of them.”

Coming into the night, the Lions (7-1, 3-1) had picked up district wins over Hampton-Dumont/CAL, Algona and Webster City. They were held out of the end zone for the first time since a 2020 playoff loss to Spirit Lake.

“Our defense played their best game against a team that had been successful running the ball,” Elman said. “They forced three fumbles and and Corey Dettmann had a big catch on third-down to set up a score and a key punt return that also set up another touchdown.”

Humboldt has reached the state semifinals each of the past two seasons. They have held four teams to under 10 points and have won three of the last four around a loss last week to Algona.

“We just had to go back to work (after the Algona game),” Elman said. “We have kids that we have asked to step up all year and that’s what they continue to do.

“We knew in this weather that we had to come out and protect the ball, keep moving it and record first downs. I am just so happy and so proud of everyone.”

Kickoff between Humboldt and Webster City is set for 7 p.m. from Lynx Field. Clear Lake takes on Charles City and Algona hosts Hampton-Dumont/CAL in other district action.