UPDATE
ST. LOUIS (AP) - John Roderique ran for three touchdowns and threw for another to lead Webb City to a 49-14 win over Jefferson City Helias in Missouri's Class 4 state championship game Saturday.
Webb City, which has won 45 successive games, ties Valle Catholic for the most football titles with 11.
The Cardinals (15-0) won their third successive championship and their 16th consecutive playoff game. They have won their last 90 regular-season contests dating to 2003.
Webb City scored three touchdowns in each of the first two quarters on the way to a 35-0 lead.
Helias (10-5) carried a six-game winning streak into the contest.
Read complete game details in our newspaper and e-Edition for Sunday, Nov. 25, 2012.
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Pre-game report posted previously:
The Helias Crusaders know exactly what's in front of them.
But to be the best, you might as well beat the best.
"I'm glad that we get the chance to play them, that our shot at winning a state title goes through Webb City," Helias coach Phil Pitts said as the Crusaders prepared to face the Cardinals at 11 a.m. today at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis. "For this game, for us to feel like we're the best team in the state, we have to beat Webb City and I'm glad they're there."
An argument could be made Webb City (ranked No. 1, 14-0) is the best team in the state, regardless of classification. The Cardinals have won the last two Class 4 state football championships and are currently on a 44-game winning streak.
"Everybody knew Webb City was going to be in the title game again," Pitts said.