CEDAR FALLS — Nevada football (10-2) punched its ticket to a state championship game for the first time in program history on Nov. 15.

In their first appearance in the state semifinals, the No. 7 Cubs knocked off No. 2 Solon (11-1) with a 29-10 win in the Iowa Class 3A high school football playoffs at the UNI-Dome.

Nevada held the Spartans to a season-low in points and came away with three interceptions. The Cubs rushed for 274 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Austin Waldera led the way with 233 yards and a touchdown on 36 carries.

"It means a lot to us, but we knew we were coming out on top for this game," Waldera said. "We came out and played smash-filled football — it's what we do best, so it's nice."

The Cubs orchestrated a 10-play, 70-yard drive to open the game. Waldera l

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