DeLaSalle at Academy of Holy Angels
7 p.m., Thursday, 7 p.m.

While DeLaSalle and Holy Angels are no strangers to playing in the state tournament, neither made an appearance last season. 

DeLaSalle failed to reach the tournament for the first time in four years following a 49-35 loss to St. Paul Highland Park in the Class 4A, Section 4 semifinals, ending a season in which the Islanders recorded just three victories in the regular season.

Holy Angels made appearances at state in 2013 and 2014, but missed a chance for a third-consecutive trip last season with a 21-42 loss to Benilde-St. Margaret's in the Class 5A, Section 5 semifinals.

Both are looking to the season opener to help recharge their programs, and each has returning players to build around. Playmakers to keep an eye on include the Stars' Jack Anderson and the Islanders' JT Baker. 

Anderson, a junior running back, totaled 709 rushing yards and 10 scores a year ago.

Baker broke through last season to become a top receiving threat and finished with 70 catches for 802 yards and eight TDs as a junior.