The Porvoo Butchers (9-0), already clinched as regular-season champions, face the Helsinki Wolverines (1-7) in Week 11 of the Finnish Maple League, aiming to secure the league’s first perfect campaign since 2018. Their previous meeting in July saw Porvoo dominate 42-6, underscoring the gap between the league’s top and bottom sides.
Butchers prioritize health over history
With playoff seeding secured, Porvoo may rest key players to avoid injuries. Star linebacker Jalen Todd (league-leading tackler) is listed as questionable, while defensive lineman Zach Wright is confirmed out. Seventeen-year-old Aaro Piispanen could see extended snaps in Todd’s absence. Quarterback Christian Arrambide, the lone passer to surpass 2,000 yards this season, might cede snaps to backup Jesper Korkalainen and rookie Simon Otto, making his first start.
Wolverines’ depleted roster faces uphill battle
Helsinki arrives with significant absences, including sack leader Jonis Heikkinen (season-ending injury), linebacker Roope Nieminen, and cornerback Kaapo Viuha. A thin defensive line could struggle against Porvoo’s deep rushing corps, which tallied 12 ground touchdowns this season. Offensively, the Wolverines’ 13.1 PPG average ranks last in the league, compounded by uncertainty around several starters marked “questionable” on Thursday’s injury report.
Playoff tune-up vs. pride-driven finale
For Porvoo, the game serves as a final tune-up before their semifinal matchup in two weeks. Coach decisions will focus on preserving starters while testing younger players like Otto, who seeks to prove his readiness for backup duties. Helsinki, meanwhile, aims to avoid a seventh straight loss and gain momentum ahead of their season finale against the Kuopio Steelers (5-4), who remain in playoff contention. A win would lift the Wolverines past the Tampere Saints (1-8) in the standings.
Legacy on the line
While Porvoo’s unbeaten run has already cemented their status as 2025’s dominant force, a Week 11 victory would etch them into Maple League history. For Helsinki, the clash represents a chance to disrupt narratives and salvage pride amid a turbulent season. Kickoff at Porvoon Keskuskenttä promises tactical experimentation from the hosts and desperate resolve from the visitors.
