Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2020 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence, in addition to local and state accolades.
Tate Johnson of
Brandon Valley (Brandon) is the 2020 MaxPreps South Dakota High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-10, 170-pound senior running back ran for 1,956 yards and 27 touchdowns in just 10 games this fall, leading the Lynx to a 9-1 record and the Class 11AAA state championship.
In the title game, a 35-14 win over Harrisburg, Johnson carried 27 times for 225 yards and two scores. He earned Class 11AAA Player of the Year honors and is Brandon Valley's all-time leader in rushing touchdowns. The program went 18-4 during his junior and senior seasons.
Johnson topped the 1,800-yard mark with 22 touchdowns as a junior. He committed to Division II Augustana University last September.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released Jan. 29.
