Maple Lake at Holdingford
7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23

The Mid State Subdistrict 1 appears to have several contenders, but Maple Lake may be emerging as the team to beat -- and doing it in impressive fashion.

The No. 5-2A Irish (3-0, 2-0) have won in two blowouts and also had 20-6 victory over reigning Class 3A champion Pierz.

The success has helped Maple Lake remain tied with Eden Valley-Watkins atop the standings and a win at Holdingford (2-1, 1-1) would keep them there another week.  

The Huskers have also rolled in two games, but a 41-21 loss to undefeated league rival Eden Valley-Watkins has blemished their record.

Holdingford can do the same to Maple Lake and exact a bit of revenge for last season's 15-6 loss. A victory Friday would also add another chapter to the Huskers' storied program, which won a Class 2A state title two years ago.