In the first two rounds of the playoffs, Middleton again faced the role of underdog, but as they had done so many times all season, they stepped up to the challenge. For round one of the playoffs, upset-minded Hartland Aarowhead traveled to Middleton. Though undersized and out-manned Middleton got it done. Special teams were indeed special this night as Michael Morris returns a punt for a TD -- turning the momentum Middleton's way.

In the second round game Middleton went on the road to face a Sun Prairie team with revenge on their minds. Many said Sun Prairie would get its revenge for an early season defeat. Middleton had other plans. In one of the most exciting playoff games you'll ever see, Middleton defeated Sun Prairie on a hail mary pass with just three seconds remaining in the game. Senior Ryan Oliverson out-leaped two defenders and came down with the winning pass. With the win, Middleton advanced to the third round of the playoffs for the second time in three years.

In the third round, Middleton faced a team on a role. Fond du Lac came to town with all the confidence in the world. They said leading up to the game that they could beat anybody. Middleton took it personally and defeated Fond du Lac with a swarming defense.

For the fourth round, Middleton would face the number one team in the state for the right to play for a state championship the following week. Marshfield had been playing well all year long and was favored to win the state championship. Middleton fought hard, however their dream season ended at the hands of Marshfield. They had overcome so much all year, and came so close to the ultimate goal in high school football. Though defeated, Middleton walked off the field with their heads high. It was an incredible season, the best Middleton had in over a decade. It will be remembered by the players, coaches, and fans for a lifetime. Not bad for a bunch of undersized, untalented athletes.

-Travis Kakuske